Hearing Matters Podcast - podcast cover

Hearing Matters Podcast

Welcome to the Hearing Matters Podcast with Blaise Delfino, M.S. - HIS! We combine education, entertainment, and all things hearing aid-related in one ear-pleasing package!

In each episode, we'll unravel the mysteries of the auditory system, decode the latest advancements in hearing technology, and explore the unique challenges faced by individuals with hearing loss. But don't worry, we promise our discussions won't go in one ear and out the other!

From heartwarming personal stories to mind-blowing research breakthroughs, the Hearing Matters Podcast is your go-to destination for all things related to hearing health. Get ready to laugh, learn, and join a vibrant community that believes that hearing matters - because it truly does!

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Episodes

Intelligent Hearing: Dr. Dave Fabry on AI Advancements in Hearing Aids

Send us a text Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. David Fabry , Chief Hearing Health Officer at Starkey , as we explore the groundbreaking innovations in hearing aid technology. Discover how advancements in machine learning and deep neural networks are transforming these devices from manual tools into intelligent systems that automatically adjust to any acoustic environment, enhancing the user's auditory experience. Dr. Fabry takes us through an illuminating journey into the realm o...

Nov 13, 202448 min

Redefining Hearing Aids feat. Brandon Sawalich

Send us a text Brandon Sawalich , President and CEO of Starkey , joins us to share his incredible journey both on the professional front and in his personal life. The conversation brings to light the pride he feels for his son William's progress in the NASCAR Xfinity Series —a journey fueled by discipline and dedication. Brandon also opens up about the profound impact of Starkey's founder, Bill Austin, whose mentorship continues to guide him in leading the company while preserving Bill's remarka...

Oct 30, 202426 min

Elevate Your Performance with Expert IEM Advice

Send us a text Discover the truth about in-ear monitors (IEMs) with our acclaimed guest, Dr. Melissa Heche, as she dispels common myths and shares her vast expertise in audiology and sound engineering. You'll gain invaluable insights into why these devices, while excellent for sound isolation, are not standalone hearing protection. Dr. Heche, along with industry experts Blaise Delfino and Dr. Douglas Beck, guides us through the challenges musicians face when transitioning from traditional floor ...

Oct 24, 202427 min

Starkey Edge AI

Send us a text Discover the transformative power of Starkey Edge AI hearing aids, as audiology veteran Dr. Douglas L. Beck joins us to share his revolutionary experience with this cutting-edge technology. With over four decades in the field, Dr. Beck's firsthand account of how these hearing aids leverage deep neural networks to enhance sound clarity, especially in noisy environments, offers a unique insight into the future of auditory technology. From bustling football stadiums to intimate dinne...

Oct 15, 202413 min

"Your Brain On: Hearing Loss" feat. Dr. Douglas Beck, Dr. Frank Lin, and Dr. Kristin Barry

Send us a text First and foremost, a special thank you to Drs. Ayesha and Dean Sherzai ! Be sure to check out "Your Brain On..." podcast. We're excited to re-release their original work "Your Brain On: Hearing Loss". Unlock the secrets to preserving cognitive health with the insights from esteemed experts like Dr. Kristin Barry , Dr. Frank Lin , and Dr. Douglas Beck . Discover how hearing loss is not just a standalone issue but intricately linked with cognitive decline. This episode takes you th...

Oct 08, 202447 min

Joel Lockwood's Journey: From Tech Innovator to Hearing Health Advocate

Send us a text In this episode of the Hearing Matters podcast, host Blaise Delfino speaks with Joel Lockwood, president of Sycle , about his extensive experience in the technology sector and the evolution of hearing care. They discuss the importance of understanding hearing loss metrics, the introduction of the ' hearing number ' as a universal metric for hearing health, and the role of AI in enhancing efficiency in hearing clinics. They also emphasize the need for clinics to continue to pursue ...

Oct 03, 202430 min

Transforming Audiology: Dr. Alicia D.D. Spoor on Modernization, Advocacy, and Scope Expansion

Send us a text How can the modernization of audiology transform patient care and professional practice? Join us as we welcome Dr. Alicia Spoor, president of Designer Audiology, who shares her inspiring journey and insights into the ever-evolving field of audiology. From her educational experiences to the influence of mentors like Dr. Craig Johnson, Dr. Spoor sheds light on the significant advancements driven by the Maryland Academy of Audiology, emphasizing the importance of advocacy for both pa...

Sep 24, 202437 min

Exploring Vestibular Disorders: Differentiating Dizziness, Vertigo, and Ménière's Disease

Send us a text Unlock the mysteries behind dizziness, vertigo, and lightheadedness with renowned experts Dr. Douglas Beck and Dr. Joseph Sakumura. Join us as we explore how the different sensations of movement can reveal underlying vestibular disorders. Dr. Sakumura details the critical role of nystagmus in differential diagnosis, guiding us through the nuanced process of identifying whether a vestibular disorder is peripheral or central, and how the direction of nystagmus can indicate the affec...

Sep 19, 202437 min

FDA Approval of Apple AirPods Pro 2: Dr. Keith Darrow on Competing with Prescription Hearing Aids

Send us a text Can Apple's AirPods Pro 2 truly compete with traditional prescription hearing aids? In this episode of the Hearing Matters Podcast, we offer an in-depth look into the FDA approved Apple AirPods Pro 2 as potential over-the-counter hearing aids. We address the technical differences, including latency issues, fit, battery life, costs and more. Drs. Darrow and Beck discuss the social stigma traditionally associated with wearing hearing aids, and the potential for trendy alternatives l...

Sep 17, 202427 min

Lifestyle Choices and Alzheimer's: Insights from Dr. Trinh

Send us a text Imagine escaping a war-torn country as a child and later dedicating your life to transforming healthcare. Dr. Dung Trinh shares his heartfelt journey from Vietnam to the forefront of Alzheimer's care, emphasizing the urgent need to shift from a reactive "sick care" system to a proactive health-focused approach. Through his personal experiences and professional insights, Dr. Trinh highlights the critical importance of early detection and prevention in managing cognitive decline. As...

Sep 13, 202430 min

Expert Tips for Integrating Cognitive Screening in Audiology Practices

Send us a text Unlock the secrets to preserving cognitive health and enhancing quality of life with insights from Dr. David Fabry of Starkey and groundbreaking research studies. This episode promises to shed light on the intricate connections between hearing loss, cognition, and comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Learn how untreated hearing loss can exacerbate cognitive decline in at-risk populations, especially older adults, and discover the potential benefits of hearing...

Sep 04, 202428 min

Dr. Nina Kraus on the Connection Between Sound and Mind

Send us a text Discover the critical difference between hearing and listening with Dr. Nina Kraus, an acclaimed expert from Northwestern University. Explore her interdisciplinary journey into the biological bases of language and the fascinating role of bird song in auditory research. Dr. Kraus also shares insights from her book, "Of Sound Mind," which celebrates the profound connection between sound and brain health, making complex concepts accessible to everyone. Uncover the latest advancements...

Aug 29, 202430 min

In-Ear Monitors: Expert Insights with Dr. Melissa E. Heche

Send us a text Ever wondered if in-ear monitors (IEMs) can truly safeguard a musician’s hearing? This episode promises to uncover that truth. Join us as we welcome Dr. Melissa Heche, an eminent audiologist, musician, and sound engineer, who dispels the myths surrounding IEMs. Dr. Heche, who has trained with Mike Santucci at Sensaphonics, provides an expert perspective on why IEMs are not standalone hearing protection devices and highlights the essential tools and practices for effective hearing ...

Aug 21, 202427 min

Overcoming Stigma: Shari Eberts on Living with Hearing Loss

Send us a text Ever wondered how to shift your focus from hearing better to communicating better? In our latest episode, we are joined by Shari Eberts, a passionate hearing loss advocate and co-author, who shares her heartfelt journey with hearing loss, which began in her mid-20s. Influenced by her father's struggles, she opens up about accepting her hearing loss, facing societal stigma, and the power of maintaining a positive mental attitude. Tune in as we explore her empowering approach to man...

Aug 13, 202439 min

Celebrating Dr. Jack Katz: A Legacy of Audiology Innovation and Education

Send us a text Dr. Jack Katz, a luminary in audiology, shares his extensive journey from a childhood marked by otitis media to becoming a trailblazer in auditory processing disorders. This episode is a treasure trove of insights as Dr. Katz recounts his academic and professional milestones, enlightening us on the evolution of audiology and his lasting contributions to the profession. Listeners will be fascinated by our discussion on the correlation between middle ear problems and auditory proces...

Aug 06, 202431 min

Exploring OTC Hearing Aids with GAO's John Dicken: Affordability, Stigma, and Market Dynamics

Send us a text Unlock the latest insights into over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids with our special guest, John Dicken, Director for Healthcare at the GAO. This episode promises to shine a light on the newly FDA-approved OTC hearing aids, featuring an in-depth discussion on their availability and the rising consumer interest. Discover the challenges in tracking OTC sales data and the potential for these devices to create new markets for those with mild to moderate hearing loss without diminishin...

Jul 31, 202436 min

"Navigating Life with Cochlear Implants" with Dr. Nashlea Brogan

Send us a text What does it mean to live a life defined by both profound silence and transformative sound? Join us as we uncover the extraordinary journey of Dr. Nashlea Brogan, a trailblazing audiologist and TEDx speaker who has navigated the world with cochlear implants. Diagnosed with hearing loss at 14, Dr. Brogan's story is one of resilience and perseverance through the turbulent years of high school and college. She opens up about the hereditary nature of her hearing loss, its progression,...

Jul 24, 202421 min

Telehealth Revolution: Enhancing Speech-Language and Hearing Services

Send us a text Ready to revolutionize your understanding of speech-language therapy and hearing healthcare? Join us as we sit down with Nell Rosenberg , the National Director of Teleservices at Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech. Nell shares her compelling journey to becoming a speech-language pathologist, driven by her passion for working with children and deepened by her studies in human development, special education, and communication sciences and disorders. She recounts her transformativ...

Jul 19, 202428 min

Hearing loss, speech in noise, minimal fittings and more!

Send us a text Is the traditional way we categorize hearing loss outdated? Join us in this eye-opening episode of the Hearing Matters podcast, where we welcome Dr. Christina Roup and Dr. Douglas Beck to challenge the status quo. We'll explore why the conventional categories from normal to profound hearing loss might be arbitrary, proposing 15 dBHL as a more accurate upper limit for normal hearing. You'll gain insights into the real struggles faced by those labeled with "mild" hearing loss, parti...

Jul 11, 202445 min

Matt Hay's Experience with NF2 and Auditory Brainstem Implants (ABIs)

Send us a text What if your entire life changed at the age of 19? Matt Hay shares his incredible journey of sudden hearing loss due to neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and the pivotal moment an audiologist recognized the need for further medical evaluation, leading to his diagnosis. This episode underscores the critical importance of comprehensive audiology practices and the life-altering impact of an accurate diagnosis. Join us as we explore the pioneering world of auditory brainstem implants (AB...

Jul 03, 202441 min

Breakthroughs in Tinnitus Management with Dr. Grant Searchfield

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of tinnitus with renowned experts Dr. Douglas Beck and Dr. Grant Searchfeld in this enlightening episode. Discover the latest research on the spatial perception of tinnitus and learn groundbreaking guidelines for reporting tinnitus location. Dr. Searchfeld, a leading figure in audiology, also shares his rich academic journey and discusses the cultural heritage of the Maori people in New Zealand, adding a unique cultural dimension to our conversation. We explore ...

Jun 28, 20241 hr 5 min

Hearing Loss and Alzheimer's Prevention: Insights from Dr. Dung Trinh

Send us a text Could addressing hearing loss be a key factor in preventing Alzheimer's? Dr. Young Trinh joins us to tackle this critical question, sharing a deeply personal narrative from the final days of the Vietnam War. We examine the shortcomings of our reactive healthcare system and discuss the urgent need for a shift towards preventive care and early detection, particularly in the realm of Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Trinh recounts his transition from a general internist to a focused dementia...

Jun 18, 202430 min

The Science of Hearing, Listening, Amplification, and Cognition

Send us a text Join us for an enlightening discussion with Dr. Hannah Glick, an esteemed audiologist and cognitive neuroscientist from the University of Northern Colorado. Dr. Glick breaks down the intricate differences between hearing and listening, emphasizing how listening involves complex tasks like understanding speech amidst background noise. We also delve into how speech in noise tests might better correlate with cognitive function than traditional pure tone measures, challenging long-hel...

Jun 12, 202436 min

Staging Hearing Loss feat. Dr. Keith Darrow

Send us a text Can tinnitus and hearing loss be considered symptoms of the same neurological process/disorder? Dr. Keith Darrow, a neuroscientist and audiologist, joins us to challenge conventional wisdom about these conditions. As we explore his insights, you'll learn how the progressive breakdown of neural connections from the ear to the brain not only causes hearing difficulties and sensitivity to loud sounds but also leads to tinnitus and more.. Groundbreaking research from MIT addresses coc...

Jun 04, 202436 min

The Future of Cochlear Implants and Hearing Solutions

Send us a text Can outdated criteria be holding back modern medical advancements? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Jace Wolfe, Senior Vice President of Innovation at the Oberkotter Foundation, to explore the revolutionary changes in cochlear implant technology and the urgent need to update the FDA criteria. Dr. Wolfe sheds light on how far we've come from the past two decades, emphasizing that with the right audiometric thresholds, cochlear implants can dramatically improve speech recognition com...

May 29, 202455 min

Advancing Cochlear Implant Quality of Life: Conversations with Dr. Ted McRackan

Send us a text Discover the profound advancements in hearing technology as we sit down with Dr. Ted McRackan, a renowned neurotologist from the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. McRackan brings a wealth of knowledge from his esteemed career, unraveling the intricacies of cochlear implants and their life-changing effects on patients. This episode promises an enlightening journey into the creation and impact of the Cochlear Implant Quality of Life (CIQL) scale, a tool that measures how the...

May 14, 202429 min

Issues in Pediatric Audiology, Hearing, Reading, and More feat. Dr. Jacqueline Rogers Scholl

Send us a text In this episode of the Hearing Matters Podcast, we discuss how hearing influences a child's education and future prospects with Dr. Douglas Beck and pediatric audiology expert Dr. Jackie Rogers Scholl. This episode takes you on a journey through auditory processing and literacy, shedding light on the stark reality that many children face when undiagnosed auditory issues lead to struggles in learning and reading. We tackle how inadequate hearing, reading and listening screenings in...

May 10, 202438 min

Hearing Loss and Grief

Send us a text When a patient suspects they have a hearing loss, they often enter the grieving process. But, what does this mean exactly? Do patients navigate through the grieving process and THEN purchase hearing aids? Do patients still grieve even after they're fit with hearing aids? You see, grief is not linear. This means that patients do not enter the denial stage, then anger stage, then bargaining stage, etc. In this episode, Blaise reviews the five stages of grief and connects Erik Erikso...

Apr 23, 202429 min

Exploring the Link Between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline with Dr. Julia Sarant

Send us a text Embark on a profound exploration of the mind's auditory avenues with Dr. Douglas Beck and the distinguished Dr. Julia Sarant, as we unravel the intricate web connecting hearing health and cognitive vitality. Our conversation lifts the veil on how untreated hearing loss might fast-track cognitive decline, particularly in the older population, while considering the additional strains imposed by socioeconomic disparities and other health conditions. As your guide through this critica...

Apr 17, 202438 min

Undiagnosed and mis-diagnosed hearing loss in UK children feat. Claire Benton

Send us a text The realm of pediatric audiology is complex and evolving. We navigate the intricate landscape of audiology training within the NHS, discussing the shift from comprehensive educational programs to on-the-job training that may compromise the quality of care. As we grapple with the interplay between economic constraints and the necessity for specialized expertise, the episode sheds light on the daunting challenges the NHS faces amidst straining demand and stringent budgets. As we con...

Apr 03, 202431 min
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