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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 conservation among musicians.

Transitioning from traditional floor wedges to IEMs can be a daunting experience for many musicians, often leading to feelings of isolation. Dr. Heche and Dr. Beck tackle this issue head-on, discussing personalized mixes, ambient microphones, and the benefits of click tracks, all aimed at creating a more comfortable and safe auditory environment. Drawing from Dr. Heches' experiences performing in New York, we delve into the practical benefits of IEMs for musicians at all levels, from students to seasoned professionals, emphasizing how these devices can help prevent hearing damage even in the loudest of stage environments.

Choosing the right IEMs is pivotal, and Dr. Heche walks us through the process, from detailed audiological evaluations to the setup and management of these devices. For those just starting out, we provide tips and recommendations for selecting the best IEMs to meet their needs. Don’t miss this comprehensive guide packed with expert advice and valuable resources to enhance your auditory health and performance.

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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 managing hearing loss and the pivotal role of embracing vulnerability.

Shari discusses the creation of her book "Hear and Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss," co-authored with Gael Hannan. Listen as she shares her excitement about fulfilling her dream of writing a book and how it serves as a gentle first step for those hesitant to seek professional help. We talk about finding the right hearing healthcare provider and the importance of proactive hearing loss management to avoid social isolation and enrich one's quality of life. Her heartfelt advice will inspire you to take that crucial first step toward reconnecting with the people, places, and activities you love.

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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 processing and the serendipitous creation of the Staggered Spondaic Word (SSW) test, a key diagnostic tool that emerged from a chance conversation with an ENT in the early 1960s). Dr. Katz's recollections of using Bekesy audiometry and other early diagnostic tools offer a captivating look at how audiology has progressed over the decades, underscoring the importance of continuous innovation.

As we honor Dr. Katz's, we also explore the significant advancements in audiology education and practice. Dr. Katz's personal stories, including the manual indexing of the first Handbook of Clinical Audiology by his wife, Irma, add a heartfelt dimension to the conversation. We celebrate his remarkable 69-year marriage and his enduring contributions to the field, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the history and future of audiology.

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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 diminishing the prescription hearing aid industry. We also debunk common myths about hearing loss and explore the nuanced differences between hearing and listening problems.

Click here to read and/or download the GAO's OTC Hearing Aid Report.

Explore the intriguing dynamics of affordability and stigma associated with hearing aids. Did you know that despite OTC options being priced from $200 to over $1,000, and prescription aids costing several thousand dollars, stigma significantly impacts people’s willingness to use them? We reference studies showing that even in countries where hearing aids are free, many still opt out. Our conversation highlights the crucial role of professional guidance in selecting hearing aids and how private practices can provide affordable solutions, ensuring a balanced approach between OTC accessibility and expert support in tackling hearing health issues.

Our discussion touches upon the importance of ongoing market evaluation, and how Medicare Advantage plans and the Department of Veterans Affairs are navigating these challenges. Tune in for John Dickens’ valuable expertise, particularly his insights on making OTC hearing aids a viable, cost-effective option.

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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, and the pivotal influence of her mentor and the work of Mark Ross on her career. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to empathy and the transformative power of care in audiology.

Experience the profound shift of re-entering silence every night and the startling clarity of sound with cochlear implants during the day. Dr. Brogan delves into this unique auditory journey, including the initial shock of receiving implants and the subsequent adaptation process. Hear her insights on the remarkable differences between cochlear implants and hearing aids, and the life-changing impact of a second implant. We also celebrate the indispensable contributions of women in leadership roles, emphasizing the unique strengths they bring to the table. With shared personal anecdotes and reflections, we honor the significance of diverse perspectives in decision-making. Don't miss this inspiring episode that highlights resilience, empowerment, and the incredible journey of Dr. Nashlea Brogan.

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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 transformative externship at Clarke Jacksonville, an experience that ignited her dedication to auditory verbal therapy. Learn about the storied 150-year history of Clarke Schools and their innovative approach to teaching children who are deaf or hard of hearing to listen, speak, and read using advanced hearing technology. Nell also sheds light on the evolution of Clarke’s services, which have grown from a residential program to include campus-based, mainstream, and teleservices available both nationally and internationally.

Curious about the game-changing role telehealth is playing in hearing and speech therapy? This episode tackles the massive shift towards teleservices catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the growing acceptance of video conferencing, improved internet accessibility, and the legislative changes required to make telehealth a sustainable option. Learn about the advocacy efforts by organizations like ASHA pushing for interstate compacts and reciprocity laws. Nell also reveals some surprising benefits of telehealth, such as overcoming geographical barriers and enhancing caregiver participation, supported by extensive data and research from Clarke Schools. Don’t miss next week’s episode, where we'll delve deeper into the telehealth benefits for the hearing impaired.

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Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

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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 (ABI). From the early challenges at the House Ear Institute to the remarkable personal account of a patient who underwent the ABI procedure, we cover it all. Listen to how this groundbreaking technology transformed everyday sounds and interactions, reshaping lives, including Matt's, and even influencing his wife’s career path as they embarked on starting a family.

In a deeply touching segment, Matt opens up about the emotional and psychological toll of facial paralysis. He shares his experiences with visible and invisible disabilities and his profound gratitude for advancements in ABI technology. We also spotlight Blaise Delfino's inspiring contributions to hearing care advocacy and celebrate Matt’s heartfelt book, which has resonated deeply with our audience.

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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 the vital role of spatial hearing in survival, highlighting how humans and animals use auditory cues to detect threats. Dive into the complexities of tinnitus, where the inability to locate the sound source can heighten anxiety. This episode provides valuable insights into how principles such as interaural loudness and timing differences can improve tinnitus diagnosis and treatment. Personalized approaches to tinnitus management are emphasized, with practical tips on selecting appropriate masking sounds tailored to individual needs.

Advancements in tinnitus treatment take center stage as we discuss long-term strategies that empower individuals to manage stressful environments. Hear about innovative methods like structured digital therapeutic training and cognitive-behavioral techniques. The episode wraps up with a focus on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, including audiological assessments and cognitive health management. Don’t miss this compelling discussion that bridges audiology, cognitive health, and innovative tinnitus management strategies.

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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 care practitioner, driven by his firsthand experiences with the inadequacies of current Alzheimer's treatment and prevention. We highlight the crucial role of primary care physicians in integrating memory assessments and preventive measures into regular health check-ups. By addressing the 12 modifiable risk factors identified by the Lancet in 2020, we can make significant strides in Alzheimer's prevention. Our discussion calls for a proactive approach to healthcare, emphasizing the need to prioritize prevention just as we do for heart disease and cancer.

In our final discussion, we explore the profound impact of lifestyle changes on reducing Alzheimer's risk, with a particular focus on managing hearing loss and other modifiable factors. Dr. Trinh sheds light on the latest advancements in Alzheimer's treatments, including anti-amyloid medications, and the importance of early intervention. We end on a heartfelt note, reflecting on the importance of community and support in this journey, eagerly anticipating future meet-ups to continue this vital conversation. Join us for an episode filled with insights, expert advice, and a call to action for better Alzheimer's care and prevention.

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