Beyond the Decibels

Kevin Zhan, MD: What’s Next for Hearing Health? (Part 2)

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Beyond the Decibels, brought to you by Cochlear Americas. Today we are wrapping up our 2-part series on untreated hearing loss. For this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Kevin Zhan who will discuss the importance of hearing health, the new clinical practice guidelines for age-related hearing loss and where wearable tech fits in. We’ll also explore why hearing loss doesn’t just affect your ears—it can impact many aspects of your overall well-being—and why Dr. Zhan is optimistic about the future of hearing health.

To learn more about the Hearing Number, check out these links:

Get Involved - Hearing Number

For Health Professionals - Hearing Number

*Dr. Kevin Zhan is an Assistant Professor of Otology & Neurotology and Lateral Skull Base Surgery at Northwestern Medicine and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, where he leads the Northwestern Medicine Cochlear Implant Program. His work centers on expanding access to high-quality hearing care and building Northwestern Medicine cochlear implant program.

He trained in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University and completed advanced fellowship training in Otology, Neurotology, and Skull Base Surgery at Washington University in St. Louis. He also completed a dedicated research fellowship in large dataset and outcomes research at the Medical University of South Carolina.

Nationally, he contributes to the American Cochlear Implant Alliance and the Hearing Health Collaborative, and previously chaired the Section for Residents and Fellows within the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery.

If you enjoyed this episode, please press the subscribe button, give us a rating and a review. We’d love to hear from you.

Beyond the Decibels is a podcast brought to you by Cochlear North America. Cochlear is a global leader in implantable hearing solutions, offering innovative products like cochlear implants and bone conduction systems. Cochlear technology helps people of all ages reconnect with sound and live fuller, more connected lives. Learn more at www.cochlear.com

The views of the interviewees in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily represent the view of Cochlear North America and Cochlear Limited.

This material is meant for health professionals – if you’re a consumer please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary and a health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome.

Ashley Nassiri, MD & Jennifer Deal, PhD: Could One Number Change Hearing Health in America? (Part 1)

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Welcome to another episode of Beyond the Decibels, brought to you by Cochlear North America. This episode is the first of a 2-part series, where we’ll explore the growing number of untreated hearing loss cases in the U.S., the broader health and societal costs and the impact on individual wellbeing. As leading researchers in this space, Dr. Jennifer Deal and Dr. Ashley Nassiri will share insights on hearing loss as a public health issue, its comorbidities and the importance of unified efforts to raise awareness and improve access—especially through the use of a simple, scalable metric: the Hearing Number.

To learn more about the Hearing Number, check out these additional resources:

Hearing Number - Get Involved

Hearing Number - For Professionals

Ashley Nassiri, MD, MBA is an assistant professor of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She is the director of the Cochlear Implant program, and her research focuses on improving access to hearing health care.

Jennifer A. Deal is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at the Johns Hopkins University, and the Interim Director of the Johns Hopkins Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, a first-in-kind research center dedicated to training a generation of clinicians and researchers to understand and address the impact of hearing loss on older adults and public health. She leads research dedicated to improving the health and well-being of older adults, with a focus on brain aging, sensory health, and disability across the life-course. She also co-leads the SENSE Network), an international network of researchers building the infrastructure to support research on sensory health and cognitive health and wellbeing in older adults.

Michael Hoa, MD: What Drives Innovation?

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Beyond the Decibels, we sit down with Dr. Michael Hoa, neurotologist at MedStar Health and Professor of Otolaryngology at Georgetown University. Dr. Hoa opens up about his unexpected passion for cooking, and dives into the art and science of intraoperative cochlear implant testing. He discusses how rapid advancements in technology are reshaping surgical protocols and shares why lifelong learning remains essential in today’s evolving medical landscape. Dr. Hoa also offers his perspective on the future—hair cell regeneration, gene therapy and what might be possible in the years ahead.

Listen now to hear Dr. Hoa’s full insights and join the conversation shaping tomorrow’s care.

Charles Limb, MD: Is Music the Final Frontier?

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Beyond the Decibels, the podcast where clinical expertise meets auditory innovation. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Charles Limb, a distinguished otolaryngologist, neuroscientist, and TED Talk speaker whose work is shaping our understanding of how the brain processes music in individuals with cochlear implants.

While cochlear implants have dramatically improved speech perception for many patients, music remains a uniquely challenging domain. Dr. Limb explains why music, with its intricate layers of pitch, harmony, rhythm, and emotional nuance, is fundamentally different from speech, and why some cochlear implant users struggle significantly with music perception while others adapt more successfully.

Drawing from both clinical experience and neuroscience research, Dr. Limb shares practical strategies that clinicians can use to help patients self-train and improve their music appreciation over time.

To check out Dr. Limb's Ted Talks, visit these links:

Ted Talk: Your brain on improv

Ted Talk: Building the musical muscle

Meredith Holcomb, AuD: What If Everyone Worked Together?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Beyond the Decibels! In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Meredith Holcomb to talk about how her clinic is streamlining care for hearing implant patients. She shares how the University of Miami's “whole clinic” approach improves coordination and workflow, increases accessibility and helps patients get to implantation faster. You'll also get to hear practical tips from her for other clinics looking to do the same.

To view Dr. Holcomb's research, click here.

Matt Shew, MD: Could AI Predict Cochlear Implant Success?

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Welcome to Beyond the Decibels, the podcast where clinical insight meets innovation in hearing healthcare.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Matt Shew, neurotologist at Washington University in St. Louis, whose research is pushing the boundaries of cochlear implant candidacy and outcome prediction. For decades, candidacy has been determined using standardized protocols—effective, but limited in their ability to account for the complex, individualized factors that influence post-implant performance.

Dr. Shew is pioneering the research and use of machine learning to address this gap. We’ll explore how these AI-driven models are being trained on large datasets to help improve preoperative counseling, guide clinical decision-making, and ultimately enhance patient-specific care.

To check out the research referenced in this podcast, visit this link: Machine Learning Feasibility in Cochlear Implant Speech Perception Outcomes-Moving Beyond Single Biomarkers for Cochlear Implant Performance Prediction

Kat Tribulski, AuD: Leveling Up with a Cochlear Implant

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Beyond the Decibels, we sit down with Dr. Kat Tribulski, a leading voice in gaming and sound processor connectivity, to explore how today’s technology is transforming the gaming experience for individuals with hearing loss.

Kat shares how integrated audio streaming and accessory connectivity—especially in immersive games like her favorite, Baldur’s Gate—are allowing gamers with hearing loss to access richer, more inclusive experiences.

Keep listening to hear a fresh perspective on how connectivity can extend beyond daily communication and into the world of entertainment and engagement.

Daisy Kent: Will She Tell All?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Welcome to this episode of Beyond the Decibels. Today, we’re joined by Daisy Kent, a cochlear implant recipient and former contestant on The Bachelor.

In this conversation, Daisy shares her experience adjusting to life with a cochlear implant - from the moment it was activated to the unexpected sounds she encountered along the way. Her story offers a candid look at the challenges and breakthroughs that come with hearing through a cochlear implant.

Whether you're a clinician, a candidate, or just curious about cochlear implants, Daisy’s journey is a great reminder of the real-world impact of this work and why it matters.

Bruce Gantz, MD: What Sparked the Cochlear Implant Era?

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Welcome to Season 2 of Beyond the Decibels! We are thrilled to kick off this season with the one and only, Dr. Bruce Gantz. Dr. Gantz is the recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Cochlear Implant Alliance, and is celebrated for pioneering cochlear implant surgery at the University of Iowa since 1980.

In this episode, he reflects on the evolution of cochlear implants, hybrid hearing*, and hearing preservation—sharing the breakthroughs, challenges, and future possibilities that continue to shape hearing science.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of the field’s true trailblazers.

*The Hybrid L24 Implant is approved in the US for adults 18 and older for unilateral use only

Sarah Sydlowski, PhD: How is Cleveland Clinic Delivering Care Differently?

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In this episode of "Beyond the Decibels," we sit down with Sarah Sydlowski, AuD, PhD of the Cleveland Clinic to explore her unique journey and insights in the field of audiology and healthcare. Initially pre-dental in college, Sarah looked within to discover her true passions, leading her to a fulfilling career in audiology.

As an Associate Chief Improvement Officer, she discusses how their clinic is delivering care differently and explains how they work to optimize the caregiver experience and enhance value through process improvement.

Tune in to hear Dr. Sydlowski's inspiring story and learn how their innovative approaches are transforming the field of audiology.

To access the resources mentioned in this this episode, use the links below:
Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath.

Team Efficiency Course

Ivette Cejas, PhD: What's Missing in Translation?

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:00:00 -0400

"There’s a big difference between just speaking a language and understanding the culture.” In this episode, Dr. Ivette Cejas joins Wendy Potts and Robert Hendry to explore the intersection of psychology, audiology, and cultural competence in cochlear implant care. Listen in as Dr. Cejas highlights her experience in treating the whole patient and offers valuable resources for professionals working with diverse populations.

Links to additional resources:

Dr. Ceja's University of Miami Lab

Cejas I, Sanchez C, Lochet D, Coto J, Flores G. Cochlear Implant Management and Considerations for Bilingual Families. In: Young NM, Iler Kirk K, editors. Pediatric Cochlear Implantation 2 ed. Switzerland AG: Springer Cham; 2024. Chapter 5; p.109 - 122. 543p.

Chelsea Anderson, PhD: What is "Eyes Open, Ears On"?

Tue, 13 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Beyond the Decibels, Chelsea Anderson, PhD, a Speech-Language Pathologist and researcher who worked at Hearts for Hearing in Oklahoma, shared her experiences in counseling children with hearing loss. Hear about how the Hearts for Hearing philosophy of “Eyes Open, Ears On” and their approach to counseling the “whole child” have brought about more empowered parents and successful rehabilitation.

The Cochlear Nucleus Implant System has not been approved by FDA for use in children younger than 9 months of age, and the safety and effectiveness of the Cochlear Nucleus Implant System in patients aged down to 6 months has not been established.

In the United States, the Cochlear Nucleus Implant System is approved for use in children 9 to 24 months of age who have profound sensorineural hearing loss in both ears and demonstrate limited benefit from appropriate hearing aids. Children 2 years of age or older may demonstrate severe to profound hearing loss in both ears.

A copy of the most current FDA-required labeling can be found on our website for the full list of indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and risks.

Sandra Porps, AuD: What Simple Strategies Can Improve Clinic Efficiency?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400

When audiologist, Sandra Porps, AuD, of Michigan Ear Institute needed to improve efficiencies in her clinic, she had no idea of the positive impact it would have on the whole practice.

To meet the needs of their patients, Michigan Ear Institute adopted a new care model for cochlear implant patients. These changes enabled them to reduce their patient visit schedule and increase remote care support, all while maintaining patient satisfaction and outcomes and allowing them to serve even more patients!

In this episode, you’ll learn about the simple yet impactful changes that led to her clinic's success.

Matt Bush, MD: How Do We Address Healthcare Inequities?

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Join us for an engaging discussion with Dr. Matt Bush, a leading expert in otolaryngology and hearing implants. Dr. Bush shares his journey into the field and the key moments that led him to specialize in hearing implants. You’ll hear this take on the challenges of access to care and healthcare inequities, along with innovative strategies he’s used to address these issues. You’ll also hear him discuss considerations and capabilities of telehealth and get a chance to learn how LEGO sets relate to his work. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion filled with personal stories, professional insights, and practical solutions to healthcare challenges.

Katie Farnsworth, AuD: How is Lurie Children's Finding Unique Ways to Support Their Patients?

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0400

We had the pleasure of chatting with fellow podcaster, audiologist and bimodal recipient, Katie Farnsworth, AuD. Dr. Farnsworth is a pediatric audiologist at Lurie Children’s hospital of Chicago and launched a podcast with the support of her team. Listen to our discussion on how Katie supports her patients with empathy, and an understanding that each person’s path is different, and how she finds new ways to support her patients through connection.

For more information, check out these resources:

Amplified Podcast

The Foundation for Hearing and Speech Resources (FHSR)

Bill Shapiro, AuD: 40 Years in Audiology – How has the patient journey changed?

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0500

If you've worked with cochlear implants, you likely know Dr. Bill Shapiro. Join us for a special birthday edition to gain insights from his extensive experience, learn about his methods for measuring success, and hear his vision for the role of artificial intelligence in the future of cochlear implants.

Scott Brown, MD: Next day activations?

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0500

We had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Scott Brown from Atlanta Institute for ENT. He shared his ideas on how to increase awareness for cochlear implants, how he has seen the cochlear implant procedure evolve through the years and what that means for activation timing.

For additional information on the Nucleus SmartNav System, visit our website.

Abby Meyer, MD: Why screen for CMV?

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Spend the next few minutes with us to learn from Dr. Abby Meyer, pediatric ENT at Children's Minnesota, as she fills us in on what Minnesota is doing to implement universal screening for cytomegalovirus (CMV). You'll hear about their ongoing research, how data is driving patient care, and how they are educating families about CMV.

For more information about CMV, please visit these resources:
CMV and Congenital CMV
National CMV Foundation

Shawn Stevens, MD: How is his clinic expanding access for hearing implant patients?

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Shawn Stevens from the Barrow Neurological Institute, a dedicated otolaryngologist who was born in the very hospital where he now operates. Dr. Stevens shares his journey of expanding his reach across the Phoenix market, making implantable hearing solutions accessible to more people in his community.

Dr. Stevens also shares his involvement in various activities and presentations, highlighting his commitment to advancing hearing health. You'll hear about his involvement in a pediatric Cochlear™ Osia® System study, an expansion trial that examined the safety and efficacy of the Osia System for pediatric patients, and the promising results that helped shape the future for bone conduction.

Dr. Stevens discusses his work with Cochlear Provider Network* clinics, explaining how he builds strong relationships with these clinics to expand access and keep treatment closer to home for patients. Learn how he grows his practice while ensuring that patients receive the best care possible.

Join us for this insightful conversation with Dr. Stevens and discover how his efforts are transforming the landscape of hearing health in Phoenix.

*The Cochlear™ Provider Network (CPN) enables independent dispensing audiology/ENT practices to expand their services to include cochlear implants and become part of a medical network that helps people with hearing loss achieve optimal hearing performance. For more information, visit our website.

Jill Firszt, PhD: What should we know about SSD?

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Dr. Jill Firszt is a Professor in Audiology and Communication Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis and has dedicated her career to understanding single-sided deafness and how it impacts those affected. During CI2024 in Vancouver, she was awarded the ACI Alliance 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award for her accomplishments. In this episode, you'll hear about the patient who got her interested in studying asymmetric hearing, how she manages patient care and expectations, and where she sees changes occurring over the next several years in how audiologists manage SSD.

Read more about Dr. Firszt's Lifetime Achievement Award here.

Podcast references:

Firszt JB, Holden LK, Reeder RM, Waltzman S, Arndt S, Auditory abilities after cochlear implantation in adults with unilateral deafness: A pilot study. Otol Neurotol, 2012, 33:1339-1346.
Firszt JB, Reeder RM, Holden LK, Unilateral hearing loss: Implications for cochlear implant candidacy. Ear Hear, 2017, 38:159-173.
Firszt JB, Reeder RM, Holden LK, Dwyer NY, Asymmetric Hearing Study Team, Results in adult cochlear implant recipients with varied asymmetric hearing: A prospective longitudinal study of speech recognition, localization and participant report. Ear Hear, 2018, 39:845-862.
Firszt JB, Holden LK, Dwyer NY, Reeder RM, Strube M, Asymmetric Hearing Study Team, Asymmetric hearing loss in adult cochlear implant recipients: Results and recommendations from a multi-site prospective clinical trial. Ear Hear, 2023, 44, 1140-1156.

Dig Howitt at CI2024: How'd it go?

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 16:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Beyond the Decibels, hear from our President and CEO, Dig Howitt, while he was attending CI2024 in Vancouver. You'll hear about his thoughts and key takeaways from the conference and also get a chance to learn how this cement-industry engineer became the President of Cochlear Limited.

CI2024 Vancouver: What was it like?

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400

Listen in as we set the stage for CI2024 Vancouver. During this incredible conference held in July, we had the opportunity to interview a number of leading experts in our field. Stay tuned for their episodes!

Allison Biever, AuD: How did we get here and what's next?

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Allison Biever, Audiologist at Rocky Mountain Ear Center shares with us her love of running, her 32 years in audiology, and what she hopes to see over the next 30 plus years.

In the United States, the Cochlear Nucleus Implant System is approved for use in children 9 to 24 months of age who have profound sensorineural hearing loss in both ears and demonstrate limited benefit from appropriate hearing aids. Children 2 years of age or older may demonstrate severe to profound hearing loss in both ears.

Welcome to Beyond the Decibels

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0400

Lisa Aubert, President of Cochlear North America joins us to discuss how she got into audiology, how things have changed over the years, and what you can expect from this podcast.