🎙️ Overcoming Challenges: Kyler's Cochlear Implant Journey

Guest: Kyler Mentzel

What happens when life changes in an instant? For college baseball player Kyler Mentzel, one pitch to the ear turned his world upside down. After suffering a concussion and sudden hearing loss in his right ear, Kyler was faced with challenges on and off the field that he never expected.

In this episode of Hear to Speak, Kyler shares his powerful story of resilience — from the silence that followed his injury to making the life-changing decision to get a cochlear implant. He opens up about the early days of recovery, the emotions that came with sudden hearing loss, and what it’s like to step into a brand-new world of sound.

🔑 What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Kyler’s journey from a devastating sports injury to sudden hearing loss
• The impact of hearing loss on his daily life and identity as an athlete
• What led him to choose a cochlear implant
• His first experiences with new sound and the start of his hearing journey
• Words of encouragement for anyone facing unexpected health challenges

This is an inspiring conversation about finding strength in adversity, adapting to change, and embracing new beginnings.

👉 Tune in to hear how Kyler is turning a life-altering moment into a story of hope, courage, and progress.

To learn more about Autumn Oak Speech Voice & Hearing, please visit our website:

www.speechhearingtherapy.com We are Rooted in Care. Focused on Your Independence.

Music: Happy Dance, Mr.Smith, Free Music Archive, CC BY

In this episode, we’re diving into the fascinating world of Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs)—a unique way some individuals, often children, develop language. If you’ve ever wondered why some children speak in “chunks” or full phrases before they use single words, or why echolalia can be a stepping stone to meaningful communication, this episode is for you.

We’ll answer the most common questions families and professionals have about GLPs, including:

• What is Gestalt Language Processing?
• How does it differ from “typical” language development?
• Is echolalia always a sign of autism?
• How can parents and caregivers support a GLP at home?
• What therapies or strategies can help a GLP move toward flexible, self-generated speech?

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or therapist, you’ll walk away with practical insights and encouragement to support communication in a way that honors each child’s unique language journey.

Resources Mentioned:

• Meaningful Speech

In this episode of Hear to Speak, we’re diving into cognitive speech therapy—what it is, who it helps, and how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) support recovery after a brain injury, stroke, or cognitive decline. If you've ever wondered how thinking, memory, and communication are connected, this is the episode for you.

What You'll Learn:

• What cognitive-communication disorders are and how they impact daily life
• Common causes like stroke, traumatic brain injury, or dementia
• Real-life examples of how therapy can improve memory, attention, and problem-solving
• The unique role an SLP plays in helping patients regain independence and confidence
• How families can support their loved ones through the therapy journey

Why It Matters:

Cognitive speech therapy is more than just words—it's about thinking, reasoning, and daily functioning. SLPs are trained to support the whole person, empowering them to communicate and participate fully in life again. 

🔗 Learn More:

If you or someone you know could benefit from cognitive speech therapy, visit us at www.speechhearingtherapy.com to learn more and schedule an evaluation.

Music: Happy Dance, Mr.Smith, Free Music Archive, CC BY

In this episode, we dive into the powerful connection between speech therapy and literacy. Join us as we explore how speech-language pathologists (SLP) play a crucial role in building the foundation for reading, writing, and overall language development. Whether it's helping children with phonological awareness or supporting struggling readers with decoding and comprehension, speech therapy can make a lasting difference.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Learn more about our services or schedule a consultation: www.speechhearingtherapy.com
• Follow us on social media for tips, resources, and clinic updates!

If you found today’s episode helpful, share it with a friend, teacher, or parent who might benefit—and don’t forget to visit us at www.speechhearingtherapy.com to learn more about how we support communication and literacy growth!

Audiologist, Dr. Saltarrelli, reacts to a drummer's video on noise induced hearing loss. She explains initial signs and what to watch for. Tune in!

#Heartospeak #hearingloss #tinnitus #podcast

This is Autumn Oak Speech Voice & Hearing's podcast, Hear to Speak! We are excited to share on all things related to speech, hearing, business and professional development!

On today's episode, Dr. Saltarrelli explores the importance of play for children. Research supports that play and exploration encourages children to think critically and learn new skills faster!

Book referenced today:

A More Beautiful Question: The Power of Inquiry to Spark Breakthrough Ideas by Warren Berger

If you enjoyed today's episode, please like and follow us on all our social media platforms!

@Autumnoaktherapy

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Music: Happy Dance, Mr.Smith, Free Music Archive, CC BY

#SpeechTherapy #Playtherapy #Play #Heartospeak

This is Autumn Oak Speech Voice & Hearing's podcast, Hear to Speak! We are excited to share on all things related to speech, hearing, business and professional development!

On today's episode, Dr. Michelle Saltarrelli will review when one is given a diagnosis of "Developmental Delay" and the implications that may bring when filing with private insurance companies.

If you enjoyed today's episode, please like and follow us on all our social media platforms!

@AutumnOakTherapy

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Music:

Happy Dance, Mr. Smith, Free Music Archive, CC BY

#hearingloss #Hearing #specialneeds #Speechtherapy #Heartospeak

This is Autumn Oak Speech Voice & Hearing's podcast, Hear to Speak! We are excited to share on all things related to speech, hearing, business and professional development!

On today's episode, Dr. Michelle Saltarrelli explains the importance of early intervention when it comes to diagnosed speech disorders. And the consequences of untreated speech disorders in education.

If you enjoyed today's episode, please like and follow us on all our social media platforms!

@AutumnOakTherapy

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Music:

Happy Dance, Mr. Smith, Free Music Archive, CC BY

#hearingloss #Hearing #specialneeds #Speechtherapy #Heartospeak

This is Autumn Oak Speech Voice & Hearing's very first podcast, Hear to Speak! We are excited to share on all things related to speech, hearing, business and professional development!

On today's episode, Dr. Michelle Saltarrelli will share her life experience that led her to opening up her own private practice. Fast forward 11 years later, she updates on where she is today!

If you enjoyed today's episode, please like and follow us on all our social media platforms!

@AutumnOakTherapy

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