This Week in Hearing

Can hearing aids be personalized for specific environments or even people with no measurable hearing loss? In this episode, recorded at the National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL), host Andrew Bellavia sits down with Dr. Pádraig Kitterick to explore the groundbreaking advancements behind NAL-NL3 and COSI 2.0.Together, they dive into the major updates to the world’s most widely used hearing aid fitting formula. NAL-NL3 builds on its predecessor, NAL-NL2, with improved comfort, adaptability, and new modules designed for challenging hearing scenarios—including noisy environments and individuals with minimal or no audiometric hearing loss. The discussion also covers how real-world data, clinician feedback, and cutting-edge AI techniques like reinforcement learning helped shape this next-generation solution.The conversation closes with a look at COSI 2.0, a modernized approach to identifying patient needs using AI-enhanced self-reflection and goal-setting tools. These innovations represent a major leap toward more personalized, evidence-based hearing care.Learn more about the work NAL is doing at:

• https://www.nal.gov.au/

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Gene therapy is rapidly emerging as a transformative approach for treating genetic hearing loss, with Regeneron advancing one of the field’s most promising candidates: DB-OTO. In this conversation, Regeneron's Auditory Global Program Head Dr. Jonathon Whitton provides an in-depth look at the company’s work developing a gene therapy targeting otoferlin-related hearing loss, a rare but significant condition causing congenital deafness in children. Whitton explains the scientific rationale behind targeting the OTOF gene, the challenges of delivering gene therapy to the inner ear, and why this therapy holds particular promise for pediatric patients. He also discusses how Regeneron is designing clinical trials with long-term outcomes in mind, as well as the broader implications for treating other forms of genetic hearing loss. This discussion offers valuable insights into the future of hearing therapeutics and the role large biotech companies may play in making genetic treatments more accessible.

The following Regeneron pages highlight the company’s research on gene therapies for hearing loss and provide information on genetic testing and navigating a hearing loss diagnosis:

• https://aboutgenetichearingloss.com
• https://www.regeneron.com/stories/auditory-gene-therapy

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/

In this week’s episode, host Bob Traynor is joined by Dr. Frank Musiek to discuss the upcoming second annual "Pathways: Quest for the Best in CAPD and Neuroaudiology." This virtual symposium, set to take place on April 26, 2025, will focus on advancements and practical applications in diagnosing and treating Central Auditory Processing Disorders (CAPD) and neuroaudiology.Dr. Musiek highlights the event's focus on intervention strategies for individuals struggling with CAPD. The symposium will delve into a range of treatments, including auditory training and aural rehabilitation for both pediatric and adult populations. As interest grows in the neuroplasticity of the auditory network, experts will share practical knowledge on how to address these challenges. Featured speakers include renowned clinicians and researchers like Teri Bellis, Vivian Iliadu, and Gail Whitelaw, bringing both clinical experience and cutting-edge research to the table. The event promises to offer valuable insights into the integration of science and clinical practice, addressing common misconceptions about CAPD and neuroaudiology.

• Learn more: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Flyer2025.pdf

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/

Noise-induced hearing loss is on the rise among children, often due to prolonged exposure to loud music and environments without proper hearing protection. In this episode, Dr. Sherilyn Adler, Executive Director of the Ear Peace Foundation and co-author of HearO Saves the Day, discusses how her new children’s book introduces the concept of hearing protection in a fun and accessible way. Created with Adele Sandberg, the story follows a young superhero who helps kids understand the dangers of loud sound and how to prevent permanent hearing damage. Dr. Adler explains how the book can be a powerful resource for families, educators, and audiologists to start conversations early and foster healthy hearing habits that last a lifetime.Resources:

• Learn more about HearO Saves the Day: https://www.earpeacefoundationpress.com/hearo-book
• Learn more about Ear Peace Foundation: https://www.earpeacefoundation.org/

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/

Auracast has officially launched at the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, setting a new standard for hearing accessibility in live events. In this special episode, Andrew Bellavia takes us behind the scenes of this groundbreaking event, where he explores the powerful capabilities of Auracast technology and its transformative impact on hearing accessibility.Andrew reflects on his personal experience with Auracast technology in his hearing aids, comparing its stereo streaming capabilities to traditional systems. He discusses how Auracast enhanced the concert atmosphere, delivering exceptional sound clarity and a more immersive listening experience for hearing aid usersThe conversation also explores the broader impact of Auracast, with insights from key industry leaders, including Janelle Ryan of the Sydney Opera House; Peter Karlstromer, CEO of GN, Noelle Chun, Senior Product Marketing Lead at Google, and Pádraig Kitterick, Head of Audiological Sciences at National Acoustic Laboratories.Join Andrew as he discusses the future of hearing accessibility and how Auracast is shaping the way we experience live events and performances worldwide.RESOURCES:

• Description of the Sydney Opera House event: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearing-news-watch/2025/sydney-opera-house-gn-auracast/
• Article about the Auracast trial in New York: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/auracast-lincoln-center-andrew-bellavia-mh7oc
• Sports bar example with Galaxy Buds: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7149029291693912064/
• Google's Android support for Auracast and hearing aid control: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearing-technologies/2025/le-audio-android-phones-hearing-aids/
• Pádraig Kitterick describes NAL's Auracast testing in the first part of this free Audiology Online webinar: https://www.audiologyonline.com/audiology-ceus/course/enhancing-person-centered-care-with-40022

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/

Caption Companion is a tool designed to provide real-time captioning without requiring an internet connection. In this conversation, Shari Eberts is joined by Margaret Downs, Executive Director of Premier Visual Voice, and Mathew Call, Director of Technology, to explore how this device can enhance accessibility for people with hearing loss.Equipped with a wireless microphone and user-friendly interface, Caption Companion captures spoken audio and converts it into captions in real time. This feature aims to facilitate communication in a variety of settings, such as conversations, meetings, and conferences, helping to make these interactions more accessible for people with hearing challenges.

• For more information on Caption Companion, visit: https://premiervisualvoice.com/caption-companion/

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/

Widex has introduced the Widex Allure, a new hearing aid platform designed to enhance speech clarity and improve awareness in various listening environments. Featuring the W1 chip and 'Precision Hearing Technology', the platform focuses on delivering clearer speech while maintaining natural sound awareness. In this conversation with Shari Eberts, Dana Helmink, Doctor of Audiology and Senior Director of Clinical Development at Widex USA, and Søren Nielsen, President of WSA Wholesale US, offer their insights into the Widex Allure platform.

Dana discusses how Widex is streamlining the adoption of new technologies for hearing professionals, while Søren reflects on the company’s years of development in hearing technology and the ongoing efforts to refine and improve solutions for users. He also highlights the importance of balancing innovation with practical usability to ensure a seamless experience for both clinicians and patients. They also discussed the role of the Widex Compass Cloud, the first cloud-based fitting software, and how machine learning and features like LE Audio streaming are helping provide users with a more personalized and seamless hearing experience.

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/

How will personalized audio solutions shape the future of hearing health? Dr. James Fielding, CEO of Audeara, discusses how integrating personalized sound is transforming both hearing care and consumer audio.In this conversation, Fielding takes us through Audeara’s journey, from its early days of custom audio devices to its expansion into hearing aid solutions. Audeara’s innovative approach is reshaping the way people experience sound, offering tailored audio experiences that meet individual needs. Fielding highlights key products like Audeara Buds and shares how the company is forming strategic partnerships with leading audiology brands.As the industry embraces more integrated solutions, Fielding explores the role of emerging technologies such as Auracast and their potential impact on hearing healthcare. He also offers a look at Audeara’s vision for the future and how their advancements are shaping the next generation of hearing and sound technology.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

A deeper understanding of how the brain regulates sound perception through inner ear nerve fibers could transform the way hearing loss is diagnosed and managed. In this conversation, Dr. John Oghalai explores groundbreaking research that uncovers the brain’s role in modulating cochlear nerve fibers to adjust sound levels in response to hearing loss. These findings provide new insights into auditory processing and may help explain conditions such as hyperacusis and tinnitus, offering potential pathways for future treatment approaches.Dr. Oghalai further explores the implications of these findings for future treatments and personalized hearing care. He also shares how advanced imaging technologies like optical coherence tomography (OCT) could one day revolutionize the diagnosis and management of hearing disorders, potentially leading to more effective and tailored therapeutic approaches. This discussion provides a detailed look at the evolving landscape of hearing research and its potential impact on patient care.Learn more about the work being conducted in Dr. Oghalai's lab: https://oghalailab.usc.edu/research/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

Dr. Barry Freeman has had a distinguished career that spans academia, private practice, industry and global audiology education. As a past president of the American Academy of Audiology, Dr. Freeman has been instrumental in shaping the profession, advancing the recognition of audiologists, and promoting access to quality hearing care.Dr. Freeman has been at the forefront of transforming audiology into a recognized and respected healthcare profession. He played a key role in the transition from master’s to doctoral-level education and has been a leading voice in advocating for audiologists’ inclusion in federal healthcare programs.In this conversation, Dr. Freeman shares personal stories and professional insights, reflecting on the growth and transformation of audiology over the years. He discusses the challenges and milestones that have shaped both his career and the profession, offering a thoughtful perspective on the future of audiology and the patients it serves.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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https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/