Hearing Matters Podcast: Hearing Aids, Hearing Loss and Tinnitus

Dr. Douglas Beck hosts a special episode featuring audiology pioneers Dr. David Majit and Dr. Gary Dorf, whose combined experience spans nearly a century in hearing healthcare. Unlike typical clinical discussions, this conversation reveals the personal journeys of two professionals who helped transform audiology during its formative years.Their stories weave through pivotal industry moments – from building successful California practices to lecturing in Japan where they introduced binaural fitting techniques to practitioners accustomed to monaural solutions. The conversation takes entertaining detours, including Dr. Dorff's memorable dinner seated next to Mick Jagger and their experience with "The Bubble," a non-electronic device that briefly revolutionized mild hearing loss treatment.What emerges beyond the professional milestones is their genuine passion for audiology. As Dr. Dorff reflects after nearly 50 years: "I never felt it was work. I enjoyed every bit of audiology I touched." Both emphasize how the profession continues offering rich opportunities for those seeking to combine technological innovation with meaningful human connection. Their journey illuminates how far audiology has come and why it remains an exceptionally rewarding career for those committed to improving lives through better hearing. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Achieving a hearing aid return rate below 1% isn't accidental—it's the result of thoughtful systems and genuine patient care. Drawing from years of successful private practice experience, this episode unpacks strategies that transform patient outcomes while strengthening your practice's financial health.Financial barriers represent a significant obstacle for many potential hearing aid users. By implementing flexible financing options tailored to patient needs, you remove a major reason for hearing aid returns while expanding access to hearing technology. But addressing affordability is just the beginning...the consultation process itself determines much of your success. Through motivational interviewing techniques that replace closed-ended clinical questions with deeper explorations of patient goals, you create the foundation for successful fittings.The patient experience extends far beyond the initial fitting. We explore how comprehensive onboarding systems—complete with educational materials, structured follow-up schedules, and even customized resources like podcast episodes that address common questions—transform the hearing care journey from a transaction into a relationship. When patients feel part of a supportive program rather than simply purchasing a product, they become invested in their success and less likely to return their technology.Audiological best practices aren't just clinically responsible; they directly impact satisfaction rates by ensuring optimal performance. By setting realistic expectations about adaptation periods and guiding patients through what to expect, you establish appropriate benchmarks for success. Perhaps most importantly, recommending appropriate technology based on comprehensive assessment—not assumptions about what patients will spend—ensures they receive maximum benefit from their investment.Ready to transform your practice's approach to patient care and reduce your return rate? These strategies will not only improve your performance metrics but fulfill our deeper mission: ensuring more people with hearing loss receive the treatment they need to live fuller, more connected lives. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

When communication becomes challenging, how do we maintain the deep, meaningful connections that make life worth living? This provocative question lies at the heart of our conversation with Gael Hannan, writer, advocate, and bimodal hearing device user who brings remarkable insight into the intersection of hearing loss and intimate relationships. Gail's perspective that "connection with others is as vital as air, water, food—and wine =) sets the tone for an exploration that goes far beyond technological solutions. She introduces us to the concept of "purpose-driven communication"—the deliberate structuring of interactions that allows for meaningful exchange despite hearing challenges. From morning routines with her husband to navigating arguments and emotional moments, Gael reveals the extra layer of consciousness required when hearing loss affects relationships.What makes this discussion particularly valuable is its practical wisdom. Gael offers strategies for maintaining presence, creating structured opportunities for communication, and shifting focus from "hearing" to "communicating." She emphasizes that hearing aids work better when complemented by behavioral changes and attitude shifts, encouraging both those with hearing loss and their communication partners to develop deeper understanding. Whether you're a hearing care professional seeking to better serve your patients, someone navigating relationships with hearing loss, or a communication partner trying to bridge the gap, this conversation offers profound guidance for moving beyond technological fixes to human solutions. Because at the end of the day, as Gael reminds us, "It's not just about hearing—it's about being heard." Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Bridget Dobyan, Executive Director of the Hearing Industries Association (HIA), joins us to share her remarkable journey from childhood hearing loss to becoming a powerful advocate for hearing health policy. Diagnosed with cholesteatoma at age 8, she experienced sudden hearing loss at 11 when the condition severely damaged the bones in her middle ear. But rather than letting this define her limitations, Bridget used it as a foundation for understanding the issues she'd later address as a leader in hearing healthcare policy.We explore the fascinating differences between traditional hearing aids, cochlear implants, and bone-anchored devices, while dispelling outdated perceptions about hearing technology. Today's hearing devices are sleek, sophisticated, and Bluetooth-enabled—a far cry from the "beige bananas" many still picture. Yet despite technological advances, hearing health remains severely undertreated, with millions of Americans neglecting annual hearing evaluations.The conversation shifts to HIA's groundbreaking "Hear Well" campaign, which has generated over $23 million in earned media through positive, stigma-busting messaging. For Better Hearing Month this May, they're launching "Happy Dance 2.0," offering hearing professionals free, downloadable assets to spark vital conversations about hearing health.Whether you're a hearing care professional looking for practice resources, someone experiencing hearing difficulties, or simply interested in protecting your hearing health, this episode offers valuable insights into how addressing hearing loss connects directly to overall wellbeing, professional success, and quality of life. Visit hearing.org today to access free campaign resources and join the movement to make hearing health a priority. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

The connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline represents one of the most crucial health discoveries of our time—yet it remains surprisingly under-discussed in mainstream wellness conversations. Madison Levine, BC-HIS, founder of Levine Hearing and second-generation hearing care professional, joins us to explain why this matters and how hearing professionals are changing their approach to patient education.A groundbreaking study published in JAMA Otolaryngology found that 32% of dementia cases could be attributed to audiometric hearing loss, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness. While many pursue various health interventions to extend their "healthspan," few recognize hearing treatment as a major modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline. Madison shares how education-based outreach has proven more effective than traditional marketing in bringing patients through the door, focusing on providing valuable information without immediately asking for anything in return.The conversation explores innovative approaches to patient education, including the implementation of cognitive screening tools like Cognivue that allow practitioners to track cognitive improvements in patients who pursue hearing treatment. Madison emphasizes the importance of targeting education not just at those with hearing loss, but at family members who often notice the signs first—like missing punchlines or asking "what" too frequently.Looking forward, Madison reveals her upcoming TEDx talk on "The Ear-Brain Connection" and her vision for a nationwide campaign uniting hearing professionals around consistent messaging. By shifting the conversation from hearing devices to brain health and approaching patients with genuine education rather than sales tactics, hearing healthcare can finally take its rightful place in preventative health discussions. Whether you're experiencing hearing difficulties or concerned about a loved one, this episode offers valuable insights into protecting cognitive health through better hearing care. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

What's the difference between following ethical codes and living ethical principles? In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Douglas Beck sits down with Dr. Michael Page, lead ethicist and author, to explore the complex ethical terrain healthcare professionals navigate daily.Dr. Page draws a crucial distinction that transforms how we approach ethics: "If we live the principles of ethics, the codes of ethics just automatically fall underneath that." Rather than seeking the outer boundaries of permissible behavior, principled practitioners focus on making decisions that uphold trust and serve patients' best interests.Through personal stories and practical examples, the conversation illuminates ethical gray areas we all face. When should you accept industry incentives? How do you maintain professional boundaries with patients? What happens when your role blurs between clinician and sales representative? These questions have no simple answers, but Dr. Page offers a thoughtful framework: consider whether actions are illegal, unethical according to codes, or simply immoral according to your principles.The discussion delves into regulations like the Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute, and Physician Payment Sunshine Act, revealing how transparency shapes ethical practice. As healthcare becomes increasingly commercialized, understanding these guidelines becomes essential for maintaining professional integrity.Perhaps most powerful is Dr. Page's assertion that "if we're not being honest with ourselves, there's no possibility of ethical practice with anyone else." This reminder that ethical practice begins within ourselves provides a compass for navigating the increasingly complex relationships between practitioners, patients, and industry partners.Ready to deepen your understanding of professional ethics? Listen now to gain insights that will strengthen your practice and your relationships with those you serve. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Step into the future of hearing technology as Dave Fabry and Holly Schissel unveil Starkey's groundbreaking Edge AI platform and accessories that are revolutionizing the hearing experience. This fascinating deep dive showcases how cutting-edge innovation is removing barriers for people with hearing loss in ways previously unimaginable.At the heart of this conversation is Starkey's Deep Neural Network technology, delivering up to 13dB improvement in signal-to-noise ratio while maintaining all-day battery life—essentially turning a noisy restaurant into a comfortable listening environment. The duo explores their newest accessories: the Table Microphone with its sophisticated multi-array system for group settings, and the Remote Microphone+ that doubles as a hearing aid controller, eliminating the need for multiple devices.Perhaps most exciting is the discussion around Auracast technology, the future of wireless audio connectivity. Imagine receiving airport announcements, museum audio tours, or television audio directly through your hearing aids without additional equipment. This Bluetooth-on-steroids technology will transform accessibility in public spaces, not just for hearing aid users but anyone using compatible devices.The conversation highlights Starkey's philosophy of fitting both the hearing loss and the lifestyle—recognizing that even the best hearing aids sometimes need accessories for optimal performance in challenging environments. With Edge Mode Automatic, users can engage enhanced settings for difficult listening situations that automatically adjust as environments change, providing a seamless, intuitive experience.Ready to experience hearing technology that adapts to your life instead of the other way around? Discover how these innovations can transform connections to loved ones, workplace environments, and everyday experiences with unprecedented clarity and convenience. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

When you hear "managed care" in audiology, what comes to mind? In this eye-opening conversation between Dr. Douglas Beck and Dr. Noël Crosby, the troubling reality of third-party payment systems in hearing healthcare takes center stage.Dr. Crosby, a three-time president of the Florida Academy of Audiology with decades of clinical experience, pulls back the curtain on how managed care administrators position themselves between patients, insurance companies, and audiologists – often to the detriment of comprehensive patient care. The discussion reveals how Medicare Advantage plans, now covering roughly half of all Medicare recipients, frequently fail to deliver on their marketed hearing benefits.The most concerning revelation? Many third-party payers operate under the false assumption that everyone with hearing difficulties simply needs hearing aids. This fundamentally misunderstands audiology's scope of practice. As Dr. Beck points out, approximately 26 million Americans have perfectly normal hearing thresholds but struggle with speech comprehension in noisy environments – issues that require specialized testing beyond basic screenings.Both experts share compelling insights about the limitations of "free hearing tests," the inadequacy of quick screenings, and the ethical problems with viewing every patient as a potential device sale rather than someone deserving comprehensive care. The conversation turns particularly insightful when discussing tinnitus management, highlighting how third-party payment systems often prevent patients from accessing treatments that could significantly improve their quality of life.For anyone navigating hearing healthcare, whether as a patient, provider, or caregiver, this episode provides crucial perspective on a system that often prioritizes profit over patient outcomes. The Academy of Doctors of Audiology's recent call for major reforms in hearing healthcare coverage underscores the urgency of rethinking how we value and deliver audiological services.Listen now to understand why the future of hearing healthcare depends on recognizing audiologists as healthcare providers first – not simply as hearing aid dispensers. Your hearing deserves more than a quick screening and a sales pitch. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

What if your entire life changed at the age of 19? Matt Hay shares his incredible journey of sudden hearing loss due to neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) and the pivotal moment an audiologist recognized the need for further medical evaluation, leading to his diagnosis. This episode underscores the critical importance of comprehensive audiology practices and the life-altering impact of an accurate diagnosis.Join us as we explore the pioneering world of auditory brainstem implants (ABI). From the early challenges at the House Ear Institute to the remarkable personal account of a patient who underwent the ABI procedure, we cover it all. Listen to how this groundbreaking technology transformed everyday sounds and interactions, reshaping lives, including Matt's, and even influencing his wife’s career path as they embarked on starting a family.In a deeply touching segment, Matt opens up about the emotional and psychological toll of facial paralysis. He shares his experiences with visible and invisible disabilities and his profound gratitude for advancements in ABI technology. We also spotlight Blaise Delfino's inspiring contributions to hearing care advocacy and celebrate Matt’s heartfelt book, which has resonated deeply with our audience. Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast

Why can some people completely forget about their tinnitus when engaged in challenging activities, while others remain painfully aware of it no matter what they do? The answer lies in our brain's complex attention systems, according to Dr. Grant Searchfield.In this illuminating conversation with host Dr. Douglas L. Beck, Dr. Searchfield unpacks his groundbreaking scoping review on attention's role in tinnitus management. While most practitioners acknowledge attention's importance, Searchfield discovered a surprising gap—very few studies actually measure attention changes or make them a central treatment focus. This oversight may explain why tinnitus treatments work differently for different people.When tinnitus first appears, our brain's survival mechanisms automatically flag it as important. This isn't just psychological—it involves neurological changes in how our auditory system connects with other brain regions. Dr. Searchfield explains that effective treatment must address both conscious attention (what we choose to focus on) and automatic attention (what our brain prioritizes without our control).The conversation takes fascinating turns through various treatment approaches, from traditional sound therapy to cutting-edge bimodal stimulation that pairs auditory with tongue or visual stimulation. Dr. Searchfield makes a compelling distinction between passive attention (having background sounds playing) versus active engagement (deliberately focusing on alternative sounds or activities). The latter appears significantly more effective, similar to how active learning outperforms passive observation in education.For anyone struggling with tinnitus or clinicians treating it, this episode offers transformative insights into why combining treatment approaches might be more effective than relying on a single method. The future of tinnitus management likely lies in personalized therapies that target multiple attention pathways simultaneously.Subscribe to Hearing Matters for more breakthrough conversations that bridge hearing science with practical applications. Have you noticed how your attention affects your tinnitus?  Connect with the Hearing Matters Podcast TeamEmail: hearingmatterspodcast@gmail.com Instagram: @hearing_matters_podcast Facebook: Hearing Matters Podcast