This Week in Hearing

By This Week in HearingHealth & Fitness

This Week in Hearing episodes

May 16, 2024207 - Intel's Initiatives for Hearing Accessibility: PC Connectivity and the Coming AI Revolution
Host Andrew Bellavia welcomes Eric McLaughlin, VP and GM of Wireless Solutions at Intel's Client Computing Group, and Arnaud Pierres, Senior Director of Product and Ecosystem Enablement, to discuss Intel's initiatives for supporting individuals who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD).
Eric and Arnaud delve into Intel's efforts to enable direct connectivity between PCs and hearing aids using Bluetooth LE Audio technology. They showcase a live demo of how users can easily pair their hearing aids with a laptop, adjust settings like ambient sound levels, and switch between presets directly from the PC. The Intel Evo program, which co-engineers with hearing aid manufacturers to ensure high-quality experiences, is also highlighted.
Additionally, they discuss the potential of AI on Intel PCs to enhance accessibility further, such as real-time American Sign Language translation and contextual awareness to alert users to external sounds or events. The conversation emphasizes Intel's commitment to improving the lives of everyone, including those with hearing challenges, through innovative technologies and collaboration with industry partners.
Resources:
Intel's OmniBridge AI American Sign Language Translator: https://youtu.be/9UrQPpeGpA4

How Intel is Improving Accessibility for People with Hearing Loss: Interview with Darryl Adams https://youtu.be/cHdrEi-5PmM
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30 min
May 16, 2024206 - Changing Mindsets on Hearing Loss: LIVE Panel Session from FHH 2024 Conference
In this week's special episode, we bring you a panel discussion live from the 2024 Future of Hearing Healthcare conference.
Dave Kemp moderates a dynamic conversation featuring guests Gael Hannan, Shari Eberts, and Andrew Bellavia. With diverse backgrounds spanning advocacy, industry, and personal experience, the panelists delved into the theme of "Changing Mindsets" surrounding hearing loss. From breaking down stigmas to advocating for improved healthcare practices, the discussion offers valuable insights and actionable strategies for shaping a more inclusive future in hearing health.
Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest episodes each week, and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter):
https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing/

https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing
50 min
May 06, 2024 205 - The Sound of Victory: Three Time Olympic Gold Medalist Rowdy Gaines' Journey to Better Hearing
Olympic gold medalist swimmer Rowdy Gaines joins Gael Hannan for a candid conversation about his experience with hearing loss. He shares how he first noticed issues in his 50s, likely due to hereditary factors, ear infections from years of competitive swimming, and exposure to loud environments. Rowdy describes initially being in denial about needing hearing aids before getting properly fitted with a set of prescription devices from that have tremendously improved his hearing ability.
He emphasizes the life-changing impact his new Signia hearing aids have had, especially for his work as a broadcaster covering major swimming events like the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
Rowdy praises being able to differentiate voices more clearly and highlights the importance of strong communication with his broadcasting partner. He also reflects on overcoming the stigma he felt about wearing hearing aids by applying the same discipline he had as an elite athlete.
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/

28 min
April 24, 2024 SPECIAL - Unlock the Future of Hearing Healthcare: Join Us at the Upcoming 4th Annual Conference!
Are you ready to dive into the future of hearing healthcare? Join us on May 8th, 15th, and 22nd for an immersive experience where you can earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) while exploring the latest developments, trends, and technologies shaping the future of the field.
Our conference brings together leading experts to inspire you with new ideas and provide valuable resources to enhance your clinical practice. With nearly 25 hours of educational content available, you'll have ample opportunities to stay ahead in the industry.
But that's not all! As an attendee, you'll also have the chance to win over $7,000 in giveaways drawn throughout the event. From incredible speakers to awesome giveaways, this conference is not to be missed.
Don't miss your chance to be a part of this transformative event. Secure your spot today and join us as we unlock the future of hearing healthcare together!
To learn more and to register, click here: https://www.accelevents.com/e/Future-of-Hearing-Healthcare-2024

1 min
April 16, 2024 204 - Safewave's Wearable Tech Aims to Bridge the Gap for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Communities
Dave Kemp interviews Trevon Bruch, the founder of Safewave, a startup creating a Bluetooth-enabled wristband connecting to smart home and security devices, enabling discreet vibration alerts over auditory notifications.
Trevon shares Safewave's origin story driven by a mission to offer accessible tech solutions, especially for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, detailing the extensive R&D, partnerships, and community input influencing Safewave's evolution over five years.
One of the key highlights is Safewave's ability to seamlessly integrate with a wide range of smart devices, from doorbells and baby monitors to workplace security systems. This versatility allows users to customize their notification preferences and create a tailored, haptic-based awareness system. Trevon also touches on the potential applications of Safewave for caregivers, individuals with cognitive impairments, and other groups who can benefit from discreet, wearable alerts.
After more than 5 years of development, Safewave is poised to launch in May 2024. You can visit the company's website to learn more: https://safewavetech.com/
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/
37 min
April 10, 2024 203 - Giants of Audiology: Interview with Robert DiSogra, AuD
Dr. Robert DiSogra has had a diverse career spanning industrial, clinical research, teaching, and private practice. He owned and managed his Freehold-based practice for three decades until 2015. Dr. Disogra's extensive teaching experience spans undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, complemented by notable contributions through national and international publications and lectures.
Dr. DiSogra is widely recognized for his contributions to understanding the pharmacological effects on hearing and balance among audiologists worldwide. His interest in pharmacology began at Rutgers University over 25 years ago, where he observed a discrepancy between patients' complaints of hearing loss and their test results indicating no peripheral loss. This prompted him to conduct a unprecedented review of evidence, uncovering the influences of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals on hearing loss and tinnitus.
In the past two decades, Dr. DiSogra has significantly influenced the field of audiology through a series of publications. He has identified over 400 adverse auditory and vestibular side effects associated with more than 2000 drugs. Furthermore, his pioneering efforts led to the development and teaching of the pharmacology/ ototoxicity distance-learning course at Salus University. This initiative has played a crucial role in integrating pharmacology into audiology education, furthering the understanding of how drugs affect hearing and balance.
By 2019, Dr. DiSogra's influence had led to 25 AuD programs offering dedicated pharmacology courses, underscoring the importance of understanding pharmacological connections to hearing and balance disorders. A sought-after presenter at state and national audiology association meetings, Dr. DiSogra has left a lasting legacy in the field.
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/

1 hr 8 min
April 08, 2024 202 - Symposium Preview: Integrating Science and Clinical Expertise in CAPD and Neuroaudiology
Bob Traynor is joined by Dr. Frank Musiek to discuss an upcoming symposium focused on the latest insights into Central Auditory Processing Disorders (CAPD) and Neuroaudiology.
The upcoming event, titled "Quest for the Best CAPD and Neuroaudiology," will bring together a panel of distinguished experts to explore advancements and practical applications in the field. From discussing diagnostic methodologies to sharing rehabilitation strategies, attendees can expect a comprehensive overview of current research and clinical practices. Join leading figures like Doris Bamiou, Nina Kraus, and Jeanane Ferre as they delve into the intersection of science and clinical expertise. Whether you're a seasoned audiologist or a researcher, this symposium offers an invaluable opportunity to deepen your understanding and engage in meaningful discussions.
For more details about the symposium, taking place on April 27th, visit: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Pathways_Agenda2-1.pdf
18 min
March 19, 2024 201 - Thriving with Hearing Loss in the Corporate World: Discussion with Monica Dreger of Airbnb
Monica Dreger, the Global Head of Research at Airbnb, brings a unique blend of intuitive insight and finely honed listening skills to her career, rooted in her background in behavioral psychology. Her professional journey has been marked by a dedication to understanding consumer behavior and strategic planning for renowned brands like Mattel, Nickelodeon, and Unilever.
However, alongside her successes, Dreger's personal experience with hearing loss has been a defining aspect of her life. Growing up in Europe, she initially didn't recognize her hearing difficulties until returning to the United States for college, where the absence of subtitles while watching TV with roommates highlighted her hearing was not typical. This realization spurred her journey to seek help and normalize the use of hearing aids, ultimately leading to her advocacy for hearing health awareness.
Monica highlights the transformative impact of modern hearing aids, which have significantly improved her daily life with features such as discretion, Bluetooth connectivity, and freedom from battery anxiety. As both an advocate for hearing health and a Widex Sound Ambassador, Monica encourages others to advocate for their needs and foster supportive environments in the workplace and beyond.
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/

24 min
March 13, 2024 200 - Loneliness, Social Networks and Hearing Loss: An Update on the ACHIEVE study
This week, Brian Taylor sits down with Dr. Alison Huang, a senior research associate at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, to delve into the complex relationship between loneliness, social networks, and hearing loss.
Dr. Huang shares her expertise as both an epidemiologist and a gerontologist, discussing the prevalence of social isolation and loneliness among older adults, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Highlighting the distinctions between social isolation and loneliness, she explains how hearing loss can contribute to feelings of loneliness, even in the presence of a social network.
The conversation also explores findings from the ACHIEVE study, a groundbreaking randomized trial testing the effect of hearing intervention on cognitive decline and other health outcomes among older adults with untreated hearing loss. Dr. Huang provides insights into the study's primary outcomes, challenges, and implications for clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of increasing awareness of hearing health and destigmatizing hearing intervention. Finally, she shares insights into upcoming projects aimed at further understanding the impact of hearing intervention on social and mental health outcomes.
Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X.
- https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing
- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

30 min
March 11, 2024 199 - How Implementing an Online Hearing Screening Tool Can Motivate Patients and Benefit Clinicians
This week, host Bob Traynor welcomes Vanessa Gauthier-Davidson from Shoebox to discuss the evolution of online hearing screening and shed light on the development of Shoebox's online screening tool.
The discussion covers the development process, accuracy factors, and the customizable nature of Shoebox's online screener. Vanessa discusses why an increasing number of clinics are implementing such screeners, highlighting their role in expanding hearing health awareness, serving as an educational tool, and facilitating patient-clinician conversations. She also unveils recent enhancements, including an onsite mode, catering to a more controlled environment.
Those interested to learn more about the Shoebox online screener can visit the company's website: https://www.shoebox.md/
Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X.
- https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing
- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
28 min

About This Week in Hearing

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The place where subject matter experts across the "World of Hearing" come together to discuss all things hearing health, hearing aids, hearables, consumer audio, and everything in-between.