Send us a textDiscover the truth about in-ear monitors (IEMs) with our acclaimed guest, Dr. Melissa Heche, as she dispels common myths and shares her vast expertise in audiology and sound engineering. You'll gain invaluable insights into why these devices, while excellent for sound isolation, are not standalone hearing protection. Dr. Heche, along with industry experts Blaise Delfino and Dr. Douglas Beck, guides us through the challenges musicians face when transitioning from traditional floor wedges to IEMs, and how proper selection and mixing can significantly enhance performance while safeguarding hearing.Join us for a deep dive into the world of touring bands and the pivotal roles of monitor and front-of-house engineers. Whether you're an aspiring musician or part of a garage band, you'll learn how to make informed choices when selecting IEMs from reputable brands like Ultimate Ears and JH Audio. Dr. Heche underscores the importance of consulting an audiologist experienced in music and sound systems to ensure optimal use of IEMs. With practical advice and resources, including her affiliations with New York Speech and Hearing, Melissa provides the keys to elevating your audio experience and protecting your hearing health. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Send us a textDiscover the transformative power of Starkey Edge AI hearing aids, as audiology veteran Dr. Douglas L. Beck joins us to share his revolutionary experience with this cutting-edge technology. With over four decades in the field, Dr. Beck's firsthand account of how these hearing aids leverage deep neural networks to enhance sound clarity, especially in noisy environments, offers a unique insight into the future of auditory technology. From bustling football stadiums to intimate dinners, Dr. Beck's journey reveals the profound impact of sound clarity over mere loudness, highlighting the advanced signal-to-noise processing capabilities of Starkey Edge AI.Join us as Dr. Beck uncovers how his experiences with these innovative hearing aids have reshaped his auditory world, offering seamless Bluetooth connectivity and exceptional noise reduction. Fitted by Bill Austin, Dr. Beck explores the intricacies of his unique hearing profile and the importance of precise fitting. This episode is packed with Dr. Beck's compelling insights into how Starkey Edge AI is setting a new standard in the auditory experience, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of hearing technology.Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Douglas Beck, an audiologist and co-host, along with Dr. Frank Lin, director of the Cochlear Center at Johns Hopkins, and Dr. Kristin Barry, explores the significant links between hearing loss and cognitive decline. They discuss the innovative Hearing Number Initiative, which simplifies hearing assessments, and highlight how untreated hearing loss raises dementia risks. The trio delves into the biology of hearing, emphasizing the holistic nature of listening and advancements in hearing aid technology aimed at improving quality of life.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Hearing Matters podcast, host Blaise Delfino speaks with Joel Lockwood, president of Sycle, about his extensive experience in the technology sector and the evolution of hearing care. They discuss the importance of understanding hearing loss metrics, the introduction of the 'hearing number' as a universal metric for hearing health, and the role of AI in enhancing efficiency in hearing clinics. They also emphasize the need for clinics to continue to pursue the benefits of technology and the value of Sycle’s new Digital Clinic module. Joel shares insights from his journey, the challenges faced in developing new technologies, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the industry. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Send us a textHow can the modernization of audiology transform patient care and professional practice? Join us as we welcome Dr. Alicia Spoor, president of Designer Audiology, who shares her inspiring journey and insights into the ever-evolving field of audiology. From her educational experiences to the influence of mentors like Dr. Craig Johnson, Dr. Spoor sheds light on the significant advancements driven by the Maryland Academy of Audiology, emphasizing the importance of advocacy for both patients and professionals.Explore the groundbreaking changes brought about by the 2023 FDA final rule on over-the-counter hearing aids, and how these regulatory updates are reshaping the landscape of audiology. Dr. Spoor and the Maryland Academy of Audiology have been instrumental in pushing for the inclusion of terms like evaluate, diagnose, manage, and treat into legislative language. We discuss the anticipated modifications set to take effect in October 2024 and what they mean for audiologists practicing to the full extent of their training. The conversation also highlights how practices in the military and other countries serve as models for the U.S. healthcare system.Reflecting on over 35 years of evolution in audiology, Dr. Beck addresses the challenges and triumphs in expanding the scope of practice, from cerumen removal to the authority to recommend MRIs. Legislative advocacy remains a pivotal theme as we dive into the integration of comprehensive health screenings and the collaborative efforts required for effective patient care. Celebrate the collective persistence and dedication that have paved the way for these advancements, and be inspired to champion similar successes in audiology across various states. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Send us a textUnlock the mysteries behind dizziness, vertigo, and lightheadedness with renowned experts Dr. Douglas Beck and Dr. Joseph Sakumura. Join us as we explore how the different sensations of movement can reveal underlying vestibular disorders. Dr. Sakumura details the critical role of nystagmus in differential diagnosis, guiding us through the nuanced process of identifying whether a vestibular disorder is peripheral or central, and how the direction of nystagmus can indicate the affected ear.Discover the nuanced differences between vestibular neuritis and Meniere's disease. We'll unpack how herpes simplex virus contributes to vestibular neuritis, leading to sudden and severe vertigo, in contrast to the recurring episodes of Meniere's disease. Our conversation also tackles the challenge of distinguishing these conditions from migraines, which often manifest with similar symptoms. Expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic hurdles faced by healthcare professionals in this complex area of vestibular health.Our final focus is on Meniere's disease and endolymphatic hydrops, exploring their shared symptoms and the diagnostic criteria from the Barany Society. Dr. Sakumura shares insights into the use of electrococleography (ECOG) for evaluating endolymphatic hydrops and discusses the intricate surgical approaches for Meniere's disease treatment. We also dive into the cautious prescription of vestibular medications like Meclizine, stressing the necessity for accurate diagnosis before treatment to ensure effective patient care. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that promises to deepen your understanding of these critical topics in vestibular health. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Send us a textCan Apple's AirPods Pro 2 truly compete with traditional prescription hearing aids? In this episode of the Hearing Matters Podcast, we offer an in-depth look into the FDA approved Apple AirPods Pro 2 as potential over-the-counter hearing aids. We address the technical differences, including latency issues, fit, battery life, costs and more.Drs. Darrow and Beck discuss the social stigma traditionally associated with wearing hearing aids, and the potential for trendy alternatives like AirPods to shift public perception and make hearing aids more socially acceptable. This episode delivers a compelling discussion on affordability, accessibility, and much more! Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Send us a textImagine escaping a war-torn country as a child and later dedicating your life to transforming healthcare. Dr. Dung Trinh shares his heartfelt journey from Vietnam to the forefront of Alzheimer's care, emphasizing the urgent need to shift from a reactive "sick care" system to a proactive health-focused approach. Through his personal experiences and professional insights, Dr. Trinh highlights the critical importance of early detection and prevention in managing cognitive decline.As we navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care, Dr. Trinh provides a first-hand account of the challenges faced by patients and their families. He discusses the transition from healthy independence to extensive care and the significant burden placed on family caregivers. We also address the growing difficulty in securing home health and nursing home care, advocating for better early detection and preventative measures to alleviate these pressures.This episode underscores the pivotal role of lifestyle choices in preventing chronic diseases like Alzheimer's, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. We explore the importance of annual memory assessments for those over 65, the role of primary care physicians in prevention, and the latest advancements in FDA-approved medications targeting amyloid plaques. Join us for a comprehensive discussion on the power of lifestyle changes and early intervention in combating major health issues. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Send us a textUnlock the secrets to preserving cognitive health and enhancing quality of life with insights from Dr. David Fabry of Starkey and groundbreaking research studies. This episode promises to shed light on the intricate connections between hearing loss, cognition, and comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Learn how untreated hearing loss can exacerbate cognitive decline in at-risk populations, especially older adults, and discover the potential benefits of hearing amplification from key studies like the ACHIEVE study from Johns Hopkins.Ever wondered why speech in noise testing is crucial for diagnosing cognitive disorders and hearing loss? Dr. Beck shares his perspective on the limited efficacy of current drugs targeting amyloid plaques. We shift the focus to audiology, underscoring the importance of cognitive screening as a standard practice. Learn how poor speech-in-noise scores correlate with increased dementia risk and why comprehensive testing should be a priority, despite common resistance due to time constraints.Get practical advice on best audiology practices with actionable tips you can implement right away. Discover the simplicity of administering quick and effective speech in noise tests using Mead Killian's grading scale. We also discuss the importance of cognitive screenings for older patients and those with significant hearing loss. Finally, explore valuable resources available on the Hearing Matters podcast to support hearing health and maintain meaningful communication as we age. Join us for an episode packed with vital information to help you better address hearing and cognitive health for yourself or your loved ones. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Twitter: @hearing_mattasFacebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Nina Kraus, Knowles Professor of Communication Sciences at Northwestern University, delves into the fascinating connection between sound and brain health. She distinguishes between the art of hearing and the act of listening, exploring the unique auditory experiences of birds. Dr. Kraus highlights innovations in bone conduction technology, particularly for musicians, and emphasizes the importance of hearing protection in a noisy world. Her research illustrates the profound impact sound has on our cognitive function and overall well-being.