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 In this conversation, Hearing Aid Specialist Jaysee Soto, HAS, BC-HIS, and Audiologist Dr. Leigh Smith, Au.D., sit down over a drink for a candid conversation about what it’s really like to run a hearing healthcare practice. We get into the things that don’t always get talked about: hiring and managing staff, dealing with managed care, companies like HearUSA that are built around managed care, the differences between Hearing Aid Specialists and Audiologists, and what happens when providers don’t follow best practices.

We also talk about the realities of hearing aid sales, why sales can actually be job security in audiology, the consequences of hiring the wrong employee, and the imposter syndrome that can come with owning and growing a business. Along the way, we get into the business relationships that shape our industry, including the important reminder that manufacturers are not really our friends. At the end of the day, business is business. They can be friendly, but they will also open their own store in your neighborhood and try to beat you while smiling in your face. 

This is an honest, sometimes uncomfortable, and hopefully entertaining conversation about the hearing industry, running a practice, and the challenges that come with trying to do things the right way.

Grab a drink and join us. This is Part 1 of 2.

Today's Spirit: Jack Daniels Single Barrel Heritage Barrel

Keywords:

hearing healthcare, private practice, industry insights, business growth, audiology, hearing aids, entrepreneurship, managed care, industry challenges audiology, private practice, licensing, scope of practice, hearing aids, VA, audiology education, entrepreneurship, healthcare industry, professional development, Hearing Aid Specialists, Audiologists.

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In our latest chat, Oli emphasized the importance of not advertising like big businesses. Instead, focus on who you're talking to. It's about connecting with your audience on a personal level, not just broadcasting to the masses. By understanding your ideal patients and tailoring your message to them, you create a more meaningful impact. It's not about being the loudest; it's about being the most relevant. Shift your focus from trying to be the biggest to being the best for your audience. That's where true growth happens.

Ready to take your audiology practice to the next level? Comment your email below to book a discovery call with the Orange & Gray Marketing team and learn how they help practices generate more leads, increase patient appointments, and accelerate growth.

#MarketingWisdom #PatientConnection #LocalBiz #OrangeAndGray #PersonalBranding #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessTruths #HustleAndFlow #CapitalizeOnYourWork #OwnYourJourney #marketing

Today's Spirit: Michter's Small Batch Bourbon ( Didn't get to review it on this one but it was amazing)

Keywords

audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips

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Ever wonder what separates a true entrepreneur from everyone else?
Drop a 🔥 if you've felt this. I've built a business from nothing — working late nights, taking all the risks, and carrying the weight of everything on my shoulders.

Employee's can sometimes see revenue and think they are profits. They don't understand a profit and loss or a EBITDA. They can see the wins but don't know about all of the losses. So when they tie the business revenue as a reason to request unreasonable wages you can sometimes look like the bad guy explaining that the business will not pay a significant amount over the reasonable positions wage cap. The owner has to protect the business and reinvest profits for more growth and better systems. Also, when the rainy days come around the employees will not be the ones bailing the business out. 

 Here’s a truth: You didn’t get those results from work you didn’t do.

Entrepreneurship is a solo race — the grind, the risks, the sleepless nights. Nobody else is in your shoes.Support your team, pay them well, and celebrate their effort—but remember, you're the one who built the foundation.

 If you’re thinking about going solo, just know: the darkness is real before the dawn — but so is the reward.Worth thinking about.What’s your biggest challenge as a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur? Drop below 👇

 And tag a fellow entrepreneur who needs this reminder today.

#EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessTruths #HustleAndFlow #CapitalizeOnYourWork #OwnYourJourney

Today's Spirit: Penelope Toasted Bourbon Small Batch

Keywords

audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips

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In this episode of Wax and Whiskey, host Jaysee 'Bald Hearing Guy' Soto HAS, BC-HIS highlights how most entrepreneurs feel like they’re grinding in the dark until one small shift changes everything. Jaysee shares how perseverance, smart delegation, and strong values drive real growth, even through a pandemic.

From zero patients and no loans to industry awards, Jaysee breaks down his journey of resilience and hustle. He explains how he launched just before COVID-19 and built a thriving practice by focusing on quality, relationships, and never cutting corners.

You’ll learn:

•  Why patience and long-term thinking lead to lasting success 
•  The risks of over-promising and how realistic expectations boost satisfaction 
•  How delegating and hiring well prevents burnout and enables growth 
•  Why saying no to low-margin work protects your value 
•  Practical tips for systems, competition, and professionalism 

If you’re feeling stuck or stretched thin, this episode is a reminder that success is a marathon. 

Looking for real insight you can apply today? Tune in.

Today's Spirit: Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 7 year

Keywords

audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips

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In this episode of Wax and Whiskey, host Jaysee 'Bald Hearing Guy' Soto HAS, BC-HIS shares his journey into the world of social media marketing, emphasizing the importance of overcoming imposter syndrome and just starting to create content. He encourages listeners to utilize their smartphones and simple equipment to begin sharing their expertise, regardless of their industry. Jaysee discusses how social media can be a powerful lead generation tool, often more effective than traditional methods like Google ads. He reflects on his own experiences, highlighting the positive feedback he has received and the connections he has made through his online presence.

The conversation also delves into him emphasizes the significance of authenticity in content creation, urging listeners to be themselves and share their stories. By doing so, they can connect with their audience on a deeper level, ultimately leading to greater success in their respective fields. Jaysee wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of taking action and not overthinking the process of getting on camera and sharing one's voice.

Today's Spirit: Makers Mark 46 french oaked

Keywords

audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips

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Disclaimer: This insanely long episode is mainly for our friends and family who are curious about what Mr. and Mrs. Bald Hearing Guy think about the Hearing Aid industry. 

The "First Lady" of Hearing (and the Edit from Hell) 🥃👂

I finally convinced my wife, Grace, to be my first guest on Wax and Whiskey—and we had so much to say it almost broke the podcast! This episode took me forever to edit because once we start talking, we literally cannot stop. It was so intense I nearly retired my headphones in 2025, but the conversation was too good to leave on the cutting room floor.

In this episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on:

• Power Couple Dynamics: How we run a family business without losing our minds (mostly).
• The "Secret Sauce": Why being family-owned beats the corporate giants every time.
• Industry Truths: Navigating a female-driven industry and the tech that’s changing lives.
• Behind the Scenes: The passion, the chaos, and the whiskey that keeps it all moving.

We’re closing out the 2025 editing nightmare with a bang and taking the lessons into 2026. If you want to know what it’s really like to live, love, and work in the hearing world, this one is for you.

Today's Spirit: Elijah Craig small batch

Keywords

Audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey.

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In this heartfelt episode of Wax and Whiskey, Jaysee Soto expresses profound gratitude to the people who have shaped his life and career. He reflects on the importance of acknowledging mentors, friends, and family who have supported him throughout his journey as an entrepreneur in the audiology field. From his relationship with God to the influence of his parents and the unwavering support of his wife, Jaysee emphasizes the significance of giving thanks and recognizing those who have made a difference in our lives. He also highlights the importance of community and collaboration within the audiology profession, encouraging listeners to appreciate their own support systems and to express gratitude to those who have helped them along the way.

Today's Spirit: Willet Bourbon Small Batch 

Keywords

audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey

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In this episode, we pull back the curtain on how Costco handles hearing care. I share real examples of patients who were pushed into hearing aids—even when medical concerns should have been the priority. From ignored red flags to one-size-fits-all fittings, you’ll hear why bargain prices can come at a serious cost. If you’ve ever wondered whether warehouse hearing care really puts patients first, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. 

Also, here’s a big question: Since Costco offers so many excellent products from leading manufacturers in other departments, why don’t they carry the world’s leading hearing aid manufacturers like great hearing care practices throughout  the country do? 

Today's Spirit: Glenlivet 14 yr Cognac Cask

Keywords

audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey

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🎙️ It took everything I had to leap into entrepreneurship. It can be the best decision you ever make or the fastest way to lose it all. In this episode, I share my journey and the questions you should ask yourself before you take that first step. 

entrepreneurship, audiology, business ownership, work-life balance, patient care, healthcare industry, audiology practice, business challenges, personal growth, managed care.

Today's Spirit: It was too early, so.... Nespresso pods.

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This episode gets a little spicy! We’re talking about a controversial bill that nearly allowed online companies to sell mail-order prescription hearing aids in Florida. Yep, without the in-person hearing evaluations or real-ear measurements that actually make hearing aids work properly.

Jaysee breaks down why that could have been a disaster for patients, and how hearing care pros across the state teamed up to help lawmakers understand the risks. The good news? As of July 2025, the bill didn’t pass, and prescription hearing aids still require professional care in Florida.

Grab your favorite drink and tune in to hear how advocacy and a little noise from the hearing health community made all the difference. You won’t want to miss this one!

Today's Spirit: Uncle Nearest Bourbon 1884 Bourbon

Keywords

audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey

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