When Lindsay Dain first had a student with hearing aids in her kindergarten classroom, she understood the basics of her FM system but admits she "didn't really understand the value." This honest reflection captures the essence of why Lindsay's work matters so deeply today; there's a critical gap between having hearing technology and truly understanding its importance in a child's life.

Lindsay's journey from mainstream educator to deaf education specialist to children's book author illuminates how powerful representation can be in the hearing healthcare space. Her book "I'm Getting a Cochlear Implant" breaks down complex audiological concepts into accessible language, serving both children who want to see themselves represented and parents navigating unfamiliar medical terminology.

The conversation takes a particularly moving turn when Lindsay shares how a foster mother approached her to say the book had helped her decide to pursue cochlear implants for her child. "You are the person that I wrote this book for," Lindsay reflects, her voice revealing how meaningful this feedback was to her creative mission.

Beyond the book itself, Lindsay offers valuable insights about advocacy in education, revealing how IEPs now frequently include self-advocacy goals for deaf and hard of hearing students. These skills, teaching children to explain their needs and educate others about their hearing technology, are life-changing foundations that extend far beyond the classroom.

Perhaps most compelling is Lindsay's personal transformation. When voice problems threatened her teaching career, she faced an identity crisis that ultimately led her to pursue writing. "It has helped me remove the ceiling of what I think I can or can't do," she shares, a powerful message for anyone hesitating to follow their creative calling.

Whether you're a hearing healthcare professional seeking resources for families, an educator working with deaf or hard of hearing students, or someone personally affected by hearing loss, this conversation reminds us that advocacy begins with accessible information and that representation truly matters. Check out Lindsay's book and share it with someone who might need to see themselves or their child in its pages.

Here is the Titze straw phonation video. 

Below, please find the ISBN numbers for "I'm Getting a Cochlear Implant" 

ISBN for libraries: 979-8-9885896-1-7 (Hard Cover)

Paperback: 979-8-9885896-0-0 

eBook:979-8-9885896-2-4

Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast

Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast