This Week in Hearing

How do we communicate the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline without misleading patients? In this keynote session from the 2024 Academy of Doctors of Audiology conference, Dr. Jan Blustein dives deep into the challenge of delivering clear and ethical messages about hearing health. She addresses the common pitfalls in public health communication, such as headlines that claim “hearing

Host Bob Traynor continues his conversation with Renee Lefrancois, Director of Audiology at Shoebox, on the vital role of ototoxicity monitoring. Renee explains the different types of ototoxicity, including cochleotoxicity, vestibulotoxicity, and neurotoxicity, and how early signs like hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance issues can indicate ototoxic damage. The conversation emphasizes the global need for ototoxicity monitoring, particularly in areas

Ototoxicity monitoring is a vital tool for preserving hearing in patients undergoing treatments with ototoxic medications, such as those used for cancer or tuberculosis. Bob Traynor and Renee Lefrancois from Shoebox Audiometry discuss the practical applications of this monitoring and how accessible tools are making it easier for clinicians to integrate into patient care. Renee explains the global implications of

At the 2024 Academy of Doctors of Audiology conference, a panel featuring Andrew Bellavia, Steve Taddei, and David Kemp provided insights into current innovations in hearing healthcare with a focus on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnostics, devices, and care delivery. The wide-ranging discussion began by diving into how AI-driven tools such as automated audiograms, real-ear measurements, and

Join Gael Hannan as she chats with legendary drummer and keynote speaker Mark Schulman. With an impressive career spanning over 30 years, Mark has played for musical legends like Pink, Cher, Billy Idol, Foreigner and Stevie Nicks, performing for over a billion people. Mark opens up about his journey with hearing loss and tinnitus, a challenge he has faced throughout

This week we are joined by Dr. Daniel Sun, Director of the Division of Neurotology and Associate Professor of Otolaryngology at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, to discuss his pioneering research in hearing loss treatment. Addressing the challenges of delivering large molecule medications to the inner ear, Dr. Sun introduces a novel approach using magnetic nanoparticles. These particles,

Sony has introduced the CRE-C20, the latest addition to its line of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. Building on the success of the CRE-C10, the new CRE-C20 retains the sleek, completely-in-canal (CIC) design while offering significant enhancements like a built-in rechargeable battery that delivers up to 28 hours of continuous use. The CRE-C20 is designed for individuals with mild to moderate

Host Andrew Bellavia takes us on an in-depth exploration of Phonak’s latest hearing aid platform, Infinio, which features a number of benefits both for the hearing professional at the fitting and for the end-user in daily life. The most exciting innovation is in the model named Sphere which incorporates a powerful deep neural network chip to perform speech and noise

Gael Hannan sits down with Christy Vogel, the inspiring founder of Sounding Joy. Christy shares her deeply personal journey with hereditary hearing loss, recounting the struggles she faced growing up without hearing aids and how those challenges ultimately fueled her mission to help others. Through her nonprofit, Sounding Joy, Christy is dedicated to providing hearing aids to children from low-income

Host Bob Traynor sits down with Brandon Sawalich, President and CEO of Starkey, as he celebrates his 30th anniversary in the hearing industry. Brandon reflects on his journey from working summer jobs at Starkey to ultimately leading the company. He shares how hands-on experiences with hearing aids shaped his perspective, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, leadership, and curiosity. Brandon considers