ListenUp!

Dr. Jason Galster is a recognized leader in hearing loss and cochlear implants. He currently serves as the Director of Clinical Research at Advanced Bionics, a company that offers advanced cochlear implants for adults and children alike. He’s also an Adjunct Professor at Salus University and Nova Southeastern University.

Dr. Galster is known for his innovation and research in audiology, starting his career back in 1999 as a research assistant. He refined his approach over a decade at Starkey Hearing Technologies, working as the Senior Manager of Audiology Research.

Both hearing aids and cochlear implants have gone through leaps and bounds of improvement in the past two decades. The archaic, clunky hearing aids of yesteryear are giving way to discreet, efficient models. Even cochlear implants are being made more comfortable and convenient for patients. 

Leading the charge for these developments are companies like Advanced Bionics that create state-of-the-art cochlear implants. Their research team has been working hard to make these advancements, and they’re here to share what they’ve found.

On this episode of the ListenUp! podcast, Dr. Mark Syms invites Dr. Jason Galster, the Director of Clinical Research at Advanced Bionics, to discuss the development of cochlear implant technology. Dr. Galster discusses the need for standards in audiology to create a baseline for proper hearing. He then goes into detail about possible advancements on the horizon, including research on hearing aids and implants. They also take time to talk about Dr. Galster’s career and the mentors he’s had along the way.

Dig Howitt is the CEO and President of Cochlear, a leading company in implantable hearing devices. Dig has been serving the company since 2000 in a variety of roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Manufacturing and Logistics. Under his direction, Cochlear has expanded its reach and now serves the hearing needs of over 190 countries.

Before joining Cochlear, Dig was the Non-Executive Director of Organic Response. He is a member of the Male Champions of Change STEM Group.

The world of audiology is quickly expanding internationally. For some, proper hearing is seen as a luxury — but now, hearing loss is finally being treated through better treatment and healthcare. Few groups are leading the charge like Cochlear.

Cochlear is an international business with a consumer base in almost 200 countries. They are passionate about increasing awareness and access to cochlear implants. Their team and outreach have grown exponentially over the past 20 years, in great part due to Dig Howitt. So where do they plan on going from here?

Dr. Mark Syms hosts Dig Howitt, President and CEO of Cochlear, to hear his thoughts on the future of cochlear implants. The two go over the progress made so far and where they see possible advancements on the horizon. Dig then takes us through his storied career, the different marketplaces around the globe, and how to raise awareness for hearing loss treatment. Hear all this and more on this episode of the ListenUp! podcast.

Dr. Marwan Sabbagh is a board-certified Geriatric Neurologist at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, specializing in Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. He has dedicated himself to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and similar neurodegenerative diseases. His expertise has earned him the position as the Camille and Larry Ruvo Endowed Chair for Brain Health. 

Dr. Sabbagh authored the book, The Alzheimer's Answer: Reduce Your Risk and Keep Your Brain Healthy, which translates his research into practical advice to help cognitive function for his readers. In addition, he has written and co-written over 300 scientific articles on research surrounding Alzheimer’s.

There are many diseases that were once written off as incurable, but can now be managed through innovations in science and medicine. Take diabetes as an example, which once had a high mortality rate. Now, most people with diabetes are able to live normal lives. However, when it comes to Alzheimer’s, the best-case scenario is slowing down the process for someone — or is it? 

Recently, there has been research that suggests a better solution is on the way. Whether it’s through early tests or advanced treatment, these neurodegenerative diseases might soon be manageable. Want to know more?

Dr. Mark Syms hosts Dr. Marwan Sabbagh, a board-certified Geriatric Neurologist at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, to learn about the new research on Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. They talk about the recent developments with blood tests and medicine from leaders in the field. They also go over ways to reduce your risk of diagnosis and advice for family members with early symptoms. Find out more on this episode of the ListenUp! podcast.

Lisa Skinner is a published author and Behavior Specialist on Alzheimer’s and its corresponding dementias. She has served as a counselor in California for more than 20 years. Lisa was also the regional director of an assisted living company for many years. Her interest in dementia-related illness stems from her family, where seven different members are afflicted with the condition. 

In Lisa’s book Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost, she helps her readers cope with loved ones struggling with Alzheimer’s. The book helps explain behaviors caused by dementia, encourages those who feel burdened, and gives practical advice for how to respond.

Losing any loved one to an illness is difficult, but helping someone with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can be particularly painful. The steady decline of short-term memory and unfamiliar behaviors can turn a family member into a stranger. Similar to hearing loss, the condition can easily isolate the person from their support network. 

As someone who has had seven family members diagnosed with dementia, Lisa Skinner has found her calling in helping others through the struggle. She has developed her insights over 25 years as a counselor, a regional director of assisted living facilities, and her own experience. She wrote her book, Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost, to be a guide for those who need support and understanding. 

On this episode of the ListenUp! Podcast, Dr. Mark Syms interviews Lisa Skinner, author and Alzheimer’s Behavior Specialist, to better understand how to treat those with dementia-related illnesses. She walks through the stages of Alzheimer’s and what treatments are available early on. Then, they dive into day-to-day life, including advice on “joining their reality,” managing their behaviors, and coping with loss. Tune in to learn more.

Dr. Lindsay Tucker is an Audiologist at Arizona Hearing Center with 15 years of experience. Starting as a dancer, she became fascinated with the connection between audiology and dance. This led to a focus on cochlear implants and research on the vestibular function. She graduated from Idaho State University in 2010 with a Capstone Project on post-rotary nystagmus decay in dancers and non-dancers.

Dr. Rachel Goffeney is an Audiology Extern at Arizona Hearing Center. She recently graduated from Indiana University at Bloomington with her AuD. Both Dr. Goffeney and Dr. Tucker lead the cochlear implant program at Arizona Hearing Center, using the latest research on the implants and corresponding audiograms.

Cochlear implants continue to be a question mark for many patients with hearing loss. Some are skeptical of the surgery while others don’t bother to consider the procedure because of the required qualifications. However, plenty of research on the procedure’s safety and benefits is pouring into the field. A recent study from Michigan even revealed that the pool of eligible candidates may be larger than we once thought. At the Arizona Hearing Center, two audiologists leading the cochlear implant program with this new research in hand. Dr. Lindsay Tucker and Dr. Rachel Goffeney are both experienced with cochlear implants and are known for promoting them as a more permanent solution to hearing loss. Based on a recent study, they’ve started implementing the 60/60 guideline — and they’re here to share their findings with you. Dr. Mark Syms hosts Dr. Lindsay Tucker and Dr. Rachel Goffeney of the Arizona Hearing Center to discuss the 60/60 guideline and what it means for patients with hearing loss. They discuss the cochlear implant program, how they educate their patients, and what the new study has to say about eligibility. Additionally, the two go over their careers and how they entered the world of audiology.

Dr. Jeff Crukley is the self-proclaimed Geek-in-Charge at Data Science & Statistics, where he helps clients analyze and utilize their data to its fullest potential. Dr. Crukley was an industry scientist who switched gears and now serves his clientele as a freelance statistician. During his time as an audiologist, he became well-acquainted with the common shortcomings of data collection and started his business to solve the issues that have been plaguing teams for so long. 

Dr. Crukley also serves as an Adjunct Assistant Professor for the department of psychology, neuroscience, and behavior at McMaster University and an Adjunct Lecturer for the department of speech-language pathology at the University of Toronto. He continues to contribute to the med-tech industry, where his research has played a key role in modern innovations.

There are tried-and-true methods that have been used by audiologists for years to great success. These methodologies have long served as the starting point for diagnosis and treatment — but they may not be conclusive. Recent research has shown gaps in audiological information for doctors as well as patients. For most audiologists, there needs to be a new approach for how to collect and analyze data. All of this begs the question: how accurate is the data from conventional audiology tests? 

Dr. Jeff Crukley is one of the strongest proponents for rethinking medical data, having worked in both medical and data sciences. Having a foot in both worlds has allowed him to see where old models have failed to provide us with the solutions we need. Now he’s started his freelance business as a consultant and contractor, helping his clients better understand and leverage the information that’s already there. So how do you apply that new approach to your practice?

On this episode of the ListenUp! Podcast, Dr. Jeff Crukley, the self-proclaimed Geek-in-Charge at Data Science & Statistics, talks with Dr. Mark Syms about how to gather, interpret, and apply data in the field of audiology. Dr. Crukley goes over the Bayesian hierarchical model of data collection and how they fill in the gaps that others leave behind. He also goes through the problems he’s noticed in children’s hearing at school, audiological terminology, and the logarithmic scale.

Dr. Jacob Iveland is a young but experienced audiologist, currently working as one of the Doctors of Audiology at South Bay Hearing. His family has struggled with hearing loss for generations, and at the age of three, Dr. Iveland was diagnosed with moderate to severe inner ear hearing loss. Since then, he has worked to help others like him achieve independence and comfort in their lives.

Dr. Iveland received his doctorate in audiology from the University of the Pacific. While there, he worked as a student doctor and intern at establishments including the California Hearing Center and San Francisco Audiology. He joined the staff at South Bay Hearing in 2019 where he specializes in cochlear implants and bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA).

As a doctor, it can be hard to know exactly what your patient is feeling. In the field of audiology, most doctors can hear perfectly fine. This inevitably leads to a barrier in communication which can be hard to overcome. No matter how much time is spent in college or training, it can’t compare to walking in their shoes. Fortunately for Dr. Jacob Iveland, he is able to do exactly that.

At the age of three, Dr. Iveland was diagnosed with moderate to severe inner ear hearing loss. In fact, hearing loss has run in his family for generations. His familiarity with hearing issues has carried over into success in his practice as an audiologist. This gives him a unique perspective on treatment that can only come from firsthand experience. Want to find out more?

Dr. Mark Syms interviews Dr. Jacob Iveland, a Doctor of Audiology at South Bay Hearing, to see how his hearing loss has influenced him as an audiologist. They discuss the value of cochlear implants, how to work with patient expectations, and the struggles he shares with his patients. Dr. Iveland also describes his journey as an audiologist and the people who inspired him along the way.

Dr. Karen Melton is the Co-owner of Hearing Care Partners and a practicing audiologist. Her passion is improving her patient’s lives through their hearing. Along with a team of doctors and specialists, she is able to medically treat tinnitus, hearing loss, and any associated cognitive deprivation.

Dr. Melton was trained by Dr. Keith Darrow, the only Harvard and M.I.T.-trained neuroscientist and audiologist in the world. Together, and joined by Dr. Michelle Woodward, they wrote the book Stop Accepting Isolation.

How do you truly take care of your patients? For many practices, the answer is found in up-to-date research and equipment. For others, it’s found in elite doctors with the best education. While all of these are necessary, practices can still find themselves falling short for some patients. Instead, it’s the qualities of a dedicated staff and a genuine desire to help that are important for serving patients. 

Prioritizing these values is one of the leading reasons that Hearing Care Partners has thrived. Dr. Karen Melton, one of the center’s co-owners, has been leading the medical treatment movement for hearing damage in Missouri. Dr. Melton and her team have focused on being personable with their patients, creating a healthy workplace environment, and finding new ways to treat hearing loss. Their approach has struck the balance between success and impact, and now you get to see how they do it.

On this episode of the ListenUp! podcast, Dr. Mark Syms interviews Dr. Karen Melton, the Co-owner of Hearing Care Partners, to learn all about her approach to running a healing practice. From her hiring process to how she involves her patient’s partners in education, they dissect how her office has managed to be genuinely helpful. In addition, they go over how they work in hearing loss prevention as well as treatment. Stay tuned for more.

Dr. Sunni McBride is an experienced audiologist as well as the Doctor of Audiology and Founder of South Bay Hearing & Balance Center. The practice was started in 2007, growing from one doctor and one secretary to two offices with a staff of 20. South Bay Hearing & Balance Center offers a host of services from hearing aid screenings to preventative counseling.  

Dr. McBride started in the medical field by assisting her father, who worked as a family practice physician. She received her AuD from the University of Florida and worked at Parker Hearing for over a decade before starting her own practice. Now, she enjoys connecting with patients and helping them feel comfortable throughout the process.

It’s difficult to run an audiology office. It’s even harder to run a good one. Countless factors go into creating a comfortable and helpful environment. Everything from the staff to the tests to the hearing aids themselves plays a crucial role in a patient’s experience. It can make the difference between someone leaving disappointed and changing someone’s life. So, how do you cultivate life-changing relationships? 

For Dr. Sunni McBride of South Bay Hearing & Balance Center, it’s all about how you treat your patients. She grew up seeing how her father cared for his patients as a physician and applied those same values to her practice. With more than 25 years of experience, she has grown her offices and developed meaningful relationships with her patients. She believes that you can, too. 

Dr. Sunni McBride, the Doctor of Audiology and Founder of South Bay Hearing & Balance Center, sits down with Dr. Mark Syms to explain her process and methodology for fostering healthy connections with her patients. They cover her strategies for selecting her staff, examining her patients, and following up. They also go over the hills and valleys of her career to see how audiology has changed over the years. Find out all of this and more on this episode of the ListenUp! podcast!

Dr. Ryan McCreery is the Director of Research at Boys Town National Research Hospital. At the Hospital, he is also the Director of the Audibility, Perception and Cognition Laboratory and the Director of the Center for Audiology. Dr. McCreery is the Head of the five different research centers that make up the Boys Town National Research Hospital research program. Most of the current research is focused on hearing amplification, language processing, and language development. He also oversees his own laboratory, where he works with children who require hearing aids. 

Dr. McCreery is the author of 56 peer-reviewed publications as well as multiple research collaborations. As an active member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), he was recognized with an acclaimed ASHA Fellowship in 2020.

Are current measurements of hearing loss outdated? It can be easy to stick with reliable and familiar tests, but they may not be painting the full picture. The science of audiology is rapidly changing; but, many tools and methods have remained the same. So, what new tests are actually effective for quantifying hearing loss?

This is where leading research comes in. Dr. Ryan McCreery has managed five different research centers and their respective testing. From hearing amplification to language development, he has contributed in large part to the general understanding of auditory experiences. Now, he shares some of his findings with you.

In this episode of the ListenUp! podcast, Dr. Mark Syms interviews Dr. Ryan McCreery, the Director of Research at Boys Town National Research Hospital, to learn about his research. They discuss some of the new tests and methods Dr. McCreery is using at his laboratories for both adults and children. They also dive into the difference between cognitive and hearing tests and whether there are more options for interventions beyond hearing aids. Stay tuned to find out more.