This Week in Hearing

Tinnitus is one of audiology’s greatest challenges—and opportunities. In this episode, Dr. Ben Thompson of Treble Health joins host Bob Traynor to share how he built a successful telehealth practice focused exclusively on tinnitus care. Ben outlines his journey from in-person visits in San Francisco to scaling a nationwide virtual clinic that now serves thousands of patients, and then to his next step: launching physical locations to support those who prefer face-to-face care.Throughout the conversation, Ben and Bob discuss best practices for growing the tinnitus side of an audiology practice—including effective counseling strategies, patient communication, and the importance of offering more than just hearing aids. They also touch on provider training, building treatment packages, and using telehealth tools and remote fittings to deliver high-quality care.Whether you're a clinician looking to strengthen your tinnitus offerings or simply curious about innovative care models, this episode is filled with practical insights, encouragement, and a look at where tinnitus care is heading next.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).- https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Advances in implantable technology are opening new possibilities for people living with hearing loss. In the third installment of our cochlear implant series, we welcome back Brent Lucas, CEO of Envoy Medical, to explore the latest advancements in hearing technology and patient care. He shares the latest updates on the company’s progress toward fully implantable hearing devices and discusses their mission to make solutions less visible, more functional, and ultimately more accessible.Lucas discusses the challenges and breakthroughs involved in bringing a fully implantable cochlear device to life—from clinical trials to FDA milestones. He also explores the broader impact of such technology on patient identity, lifestyle, and stigma reduction. For professionals and patients alike, this discussion offers timely insight into how technology and care models are converging to deliver a new era in hearing health.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).- https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Hearing care is evolving rapidly—are we ready for what’s next? In this conversation from the 2025 Future of Hearing Healthcare Conference, Andy Bellavia and Dave Kemp explore the trends reshaping hearing healthcare. From the growing influence of AI and consumer tech to the mainstreaming of OTC hearing aids, they discuss how new technologies are expanding access and improving outcomes for people with hearing loss.Dave shares insights on the convergence of consumer and clinical devices, the rise of neuromodulation therapies for tinnitus, and how automation and assistive roles are enabling hearing professionals to serve more patients effectively. They also examine global dynamics, like how countries without established care systems may leapfrog traditional models entirely.Whether you're a clinician, tech developer, or simply curious about where hearing care is headed, this discussion offers a timely and optimistic look at the innovations, business models, and mindset shifts needed to meet growing global demand.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).- https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Stigma remains one of the most enduring and complex barriers in hearing healthcare—shaping public perceptions of hearing loss, delaying help-seeking behaviors, and limiting the adoption of hearing technology across all age groups. Despite advances in treatment and expanded access through over-the-counter (OTC) devices, many people still hesitate to pursue care due to fears of looking old, feeling different, or being misunderstood.In this insightful panel discussion, consumers, clinicians, and industry leaders come together to explore how stigma shows up in clinical settings, family conversations, and broader societal messaging. Drawing on personal experience and professional expertise, the panel examines the subtle ways that language, product design, and even well-intentioned advice can reinforce stigma—and what can be done to replace those barriers with messages of confidence, connection, and empowerment.From the role of primary care physicians and educators to the impact of emerging technologies like hearable glasses and invisible hearing aids, the panel explores practical ways each stakeholder can contribute to reshaping the narrative. The discussion also highlights the importance of consumer storytelling, inclusive terminology, and consistent messaging across sectors to create a more accepting, proactive, and person-centered hearing care experience.Whether you’re a provider, policymaker, advocate, or someone navigating hearing loss yourself, this session offers meaningful insights into what progress looks like—and how we can all be part of it.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).- https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Modernizing audiology practice isn’t just about professional progress—it’s about improving patient care. In this session, moderator Dave Kemp leads a timely discussion with Dr. Alicia Spoor (Maryland), Dr. Kelley Linton (Arkansas), Dr. Brian Greenaway (Oregon), and Stephanie Czuhajewski, Executive Director of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA), on the evolving legislative landscape shaping the future of audiology. Together, they share insights from recent efforts to update state practice acts, expand clinical authority, and remove outdated restrictions—efforts driven by a commitment to better access, continuity, and quality of care for patients.Through real-world examples, the panel explores what it takes to advance legislation—from coalition-building and political strategy to educating stakeholders and managing professional opposition. Whether already passed or still in progress, these initiatives reflect a growing movement to align audiology’s legal scope with its clinical training—empowering audiologists to practice at the top of their license and meet patients where they are.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

• https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing
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• https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Cochlear implants remain vastly underutilized despite decades of evidence showing their ability to restore hearing and improve quality of life. In this episode, neurotologist Dr. Varun Varadarajan joins host Brian Taylor to explore the clinical, logistical, and cultural barriers that continue to limit access to cochlear implant care. Drawing on his background in music and neuroscience, Dr. Varadarajan shares his journey into hearing restoration surgery and offers insights into early intervention, the 60/60 referral guideline, and why timing matters for long-term outcomes.The discussion highlights several misconceptions that often delay or prevent patients from seeking cochlear implant evaluation—from concerns about age, surgery, and cost to misunderstandings about candidacy and device function. Dr. Varadarajan stresses the importance of individualized counseling, collaborative decision-making, and helping patients understand that cochlear implantation is a process, not a one-size-fits-all solution. He also addresses myths within the professional community, including hesitancy around residual hearing loss and outdated assumptions about surgical complexity.Beyond clinical considerations, Dr. Varadarajan shares practical strategies for building and expanding cochlear implant programs, including the importance of audiology partnerships, reimbursement planning, and aligning institutional goals. He also explains the value of the Cochlear Provider Network in connecting rural or underserved patients to implant services, and discusses how remote care and virtual follow-up are reshaping postoperative management.

Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

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• hearing- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
  

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This limited-time offer is ONLY available for the next 48 hours, so don’t wait. The event features 22+ expert-led sessions, CEUs, and the chance to win thousands in giveaways.

Whether you’re a clinician, student, researcher, or industry professional, this 3-day virtual event (May 14, 21 & 28) explores what’s next in hearing care—from AI and accessibility to tinnitus, tech integration, and more.
👉 Click here to register or enter the code fhh25 at checkout.

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Learn more about this year's 2025 FHH conference here: https://www.accelevents.com/e/fhh-2025

From first consult to post-activation, cochlear implant success often depends on the strength of the care team behind the patient. In this episode, Dr. Kevin Zhan, Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology and Director of the Northwestern Medicine Cochlear Implant Program, joins host Brian Taylor to discuss the evolving collaboration between cochlear implant surgeons and hearing care professionals.Dr. Zhan shares insights from his clinical experience, including referral criteria, expanded candidacy guidelines, and how direct communication can help patients access timely and effective care. The conversation also explores barriers to referral, practical ways to improve coordination, and why audiologists play a pivotal role in guiding patients through the implant journey—from consultation to activation.Whether you're a hearing care provider, ENT, or someone interested in the CI process, this episode offers valuable perspectives on building effective clinical partnerships and improving access to care.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).- https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Nuance Audio has officially introduced its over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid glasses to the U.S. market. In this episode, recorded at the launch event in New York, Andrew Bellavia speaks with Davide D’Alena of Nuance Audio and EssilorLuxottica, and John Luna, about the product’s development, regulatory journey, and plans for rollout.The glasses aim to assist individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss—particularly in noisy environments—and are now available through optical retail partners such as LensCrafters, Target Optical, and Pearl Vision. Distribution is also expanding to audiology clinics and additional markets globally.The conversation explores design choices, clinical validation, and how these devices may help address common barriers to hearing care.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter)

• https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing
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• https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
  

How can hearing care professionals expand their reach by partnering with primary care? This week, Dr. Angela Morris, audiologist and Account Manager at Shoebox, discusses innovative approaches to integrating hearing screening into primary care workflows. Drawing from her experience as a former private practice owner and audiology leader, Dr. Morris discusses how Shoebox's QuickTest tool allows hearing care professionals to collaborate with primary care providers to reach more patients with undetected hearing loss.The conversation covers how the QuickTest works, its potential to streamline referrals, and the importance of building physician relationships in audiology marketing. They also preview an upcoming Audiology Online course exploring this collaborative model in greater detail.📅 Learn more about the April 22 CEU course: "Maximizing Referral: A Collaborative Approach to Hearing Screening and Primary Care" here

• https://www.audiologyonline.com/audiology-ceus/course/maximizing-referrals-collaborative-approach-to-40573

For more details about QuickTest and the other products offered by Shoebox, visit the company's website:

• https://www.shoebox.md/