In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Dr. Shannon Switzer, Doctor of Audiology at Sensaphonics, the Chicago based clinic trusted by touring artists around the world. Specializing in music industry hearing health, Dr. Switzer bridges the gap between science and sound, helping musicians protect the very tool that defines their craft.

From growing up in Vermont to studying audiology at Northwestern and joining Sensaphonics, she shares how her background in music led her to a career focused on preserving it. We dive into how hearing actually works, why the modern world has become dangerously loud, and how overexposure to sound quietly reshapes your ability to create and enjoy music.

Dr. Switzer breaks down everything from the physics of hearing and tinnitus to custom in ear protection, high fidelity earplugs, and the misconceptions that make musicians ignore hearing care until it’s too late. She also explains why properly fitted, filtered earplugs can improve how music sounds and how Sensaphonics helped pioneer custom in ear monitors for some of the biggest names in the industry.

From the science of the cochlea to the culture of live shows in Chicago, this episode bridges the worlds of music and medicine, showing why protecting your ears isn’t just about safety; it’s about preserving your art.

🎧 Follow Dr. Shannon Switzer: https://www.instagram.com/ears.by.shannon/?hl=en

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The Podcast for Producers

Chapters:

00:00 Intro and welcome

00:36 Who she is and why hearing wellness matters

03:41 First concert, Vermont roots, and moving to Chicago

09:37 Path to audiology

15:16 Custom molds and Sensaphonics

16:27 How hearing works

26:33 Reading tests and the classic noise notch

32:13 Safe listening standards and in-ear monitors

35:36 Protect your ears: high-fidelity plugs and customs

43:27 Fan moments and client privacy

50:55 Inside a Sensaphonics appointment and finding the right audiologist

54:10 Sensaphonics origin and the in-house lab

1:00:18 Tinnitus overview, ear canal resonance, and measuring sound

1:06:44 Testing ears, education, and practical protection

1:18:13 Acoustic reflex and early signs of loss

1:24:39 Tinnitus deep dive, myths, and OAEs

1:34:37 Spreading hearing-health culture and why hearing matters

1:39:25 Why EDM is high risk and lifestyle factors

1:44:34 Headphones vs speakers, phone limiter, and dB Check

1:52:20 Tech today: hearing aids, cochlear implants, 3DME, and research

2:05:40 Venue rules in Europe and HELA certification

2:08:13 Most impactful concert

2:14:36 Shout-outs to teachers

2:19:32 How to book and socials

2:21:33 Wrap-up

2:22:46 Outro and CTA