Did you know the same principles used to design pro-audio speakers can be used to perform delicate eye surgeries or power life-saving heart monitors?

Joseph Luis, an engineering leader at Medtronic , shares his incredible journey from navigating MIT as a first-generation college student to designing concert-series speakers at JBL , and ultimately finding his true calling in medical acoustics. We dive deep into the fascinating mechanics of how high-frequency soundwaves are actively revolutionizing modern medicine.

Chapter Markers:

• 06:03 - Upbringing and navigating MIT as a first-generation student
• 14:10 - Leaving JBL to pursue a career in medical acoustics
• 15:51 - Exploring cosmetic ultrasound and subdermal lifting
• 21:23 - Engineering tools for cataract removal (phacoemulsification)
• 26:26 - Testing integrated circuits for Medtronic pacemakers
• 33:17 - How ultrasound-assisted liposuction reduces tissue damage
• 41:37 - The exciting future of non-invasive ultrasound therapies
• 44:26 - Career advice: The power of networking for young engineers

What happens when you give the world’s leading scientists the freedom to research whatever they want? You get NTT Research, a global powerhouse operating at the edge of what’s possible in physics, medicine, and AI.

In this episode of the SCL Podcast, filmed inside the MD Acoustics anechoic chamber in Gilbert, Arizona, we sit down with Kazu Gomi, CEO of NTT Research. Kazu pulls back the curtain on how a company with over 300,000 employees is tackling the massive energy crisis facing modern data centers and why the future of computing might not be silicon, but light.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:

• The Energy Crisis of AI: Why GPUs require so much power and how NTT is aiming to reduce energy requirements by 1/10th or even 1/100th through optical computing.
• The Bio Digital Twin: A revolutionary look at how digital "twins" of the human heart are being used to predict disease and automate medical treatments like "autonomous driving" for drug infusions.
• Can AI Feel? New research into the "granularity" of AI emotions and how modern models are beginning to understand feelings with the sophistication of an adult human.
• Attribute-Based Cryptography: Moving beyond "all or nothing" security to create files where different keys unlock specific pages or sections.
• Leadership & The "Strong Core": Kazu shares his journey from electrical engineer to CEO and his advice for young professionals on perfecting their "major" to reach the next level.

CHAPTERS:

• 00:00 – Intro: The Anechoic Chamber 
• 06:27 – The Scale of NTT: 300,000 Employees & Underwater Cables 
• 10:47 – A Unique Approach to R&D 
• 13:04 – Optical Computing vs. The Power Crisis 
• 22:50 – Heart Health & Bio Digital Twins 
• 29:22 – Next-Gen Cryptography 
• 33:18 – AI’s Understanding of Human Feelings 
• 41:03 – Career Advice: Finding Your Strong Core 

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, recorded inside MD Acoustics’ anechoic chamber, we sit down with two respected voices shaping the future of acoustical standards: Jeff Fullerton (Stantec) and Matthew Golden (Intertek).

Jeff and Matt bring decades of experience in architectural acoustics, product development, vibration control, and standards committee leadership. Together, they unpack one of the biggest steps forward in the industry—the launch of the INCE Technical Badge Program, a new credential designed to improve measurement quality, unify testing practices, and help practitioners demonstrate real mastery of the standards they use every day.

We explore why interpreting ASTM and ANSI standards can be so challenging, how inconsistencies develop, and what it actually takes to write and update these documents. Jeff and Matt also share stories from years of field work and committee involvement, illustrating why hands-on measurement skill is just as important as deep technical knowledge.

From airborne and impact testing to outdoor measurement protocols, this conversation highlights the need for clearer, more consistent training—especially as measurement demands increase and testing becomes more central to legal disputes, design decisions, and environmental compliance.

Whether you're an acoustical consultant, testing lab, manufacturer, or emerging professional looking to sharpen your skills, this episode offers valuable insight into where the industry is heading and how this new badging program can elevate both practice and accountability across the field.

From decoding speech to fighting deepfakes, Dr. Visar Berisha bridges the worlds of science, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, Visar shares how a college speech processing project led him to pursue a PhD in speech acoustics, research at MIT Lincoln Labs, and a career spanning academia, startups, and entrepreneurship. As co-founder of Aural Analytics, he pioneered the use of speech as a biomarker for neurological conditions like Parkinson’s, ALS, Alzheimer’s, and depression, securing SBIR and NIH funding before exiting through acquisition in 2020.

We also dive into his current role as Associate Dean of Research Commercialization at ASU, where he helps faculty and students translate research into real-world impact. Visar discusses the challenges of bridging academia and entrepreneurship, the importance of identifying problems people care about, and his recent witness sensing research to combat AI-generated deepfakes with radar-based verification.

Packed with insights on STEM careers, innovation, and ethical AI, this episode shows how curiosity and persistence can turn academic research into groundbreaking real-world solutions.

🔗 Learn more about Visar’s work: https://visarberisha.github.io/
 🔗 Follow Sound Cave Labs: https://soundcavelabs.com/

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, Jeremy shares how he went from working as a commercial electrician and network engineer to joining Level 3 Audiovisual in its early days — helping grow the firm from fewer than 10 employees to more than 120 worldwide. Now CEO, he reflects on leadership lessons, implementing EOS for organizational structure, and navigating recessions and global expansion.

We discuss the AV/IT convergence, why AV lacks formal training programs, and how trade groups like AVIXA are shaping the industry. Jeremy also explains how COVID-19 accelerated AV adoption, why user interface design matters as much as engineering, and what the future holds with AI, software-defined solutions, and cybersecurity risks.

Whether you’re a student, engineer, or business leader, Jeremy’s story offers insights into leadership, mentorship, and the evolving role of technology in how we connect and collaborate.

🔗 Learn more about Level 3 Audiovisual: https://level3av.com/
🔗 Follow Sound Cave Labs: https://soundcavelabs.com/

From architecture studios to abstract canvases, Lori Brunner has built a career around design, mentorship, and creativity.

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, Lori shares her journey from architecture and urban planning to teaching interior design at Iowa State and ASU, and ultimately leaving academia to pursue her passions as an artist, consultant, and entrepreneur.

We discuss how she combines art, interiors, and product design, how her experiences as a professor shaped her mentoring style, and why she believes good design — like good acoustics — should feel seamless and natural. Lori also talks about entrepreneurship, bootstrapping her business, and the satisfaction of helping clients create spaces that inspire comfort and joy.

Whether you’re a student, designer, or entrepreneur, this episode offers inspiration on following your interests, trusting the pivots, and making an impact through creativity.

🔗 Explore Lori’s work: https://www.loribrunner.com
🔗 Follow Sound Cave Labs: https://www.soundcavelabs.com

From shop floor curiosity to launching rockets.

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, we sit down with Chris Canfield, aerospace engineer and LinkedIn storyteller, to explore his journey from tinkering in his dad’s shop to working on rocket launch vehicles at Orbital ATK and Northrop Grumman. Chris shares how he navigated imposter syndrome, carved his own path into cutting-edge projects, and discovered the value of communication in engineering.

We dive into his role in composite material development, lessons from large-scale aerospace programs, and why rapid iteration (and failure) can accelerate progress in space exploration. Chris also opens up about risk, career pivots, mentorship, and advice for the next generation of engineers.

👉 Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscanfield/
👉 Follow Sound Cave Labs: https://soundcavelabs.com/

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, Adam shares his journey from aspiring immigration lawyer to becoming one of Arizona’s leading zoning attorneys and entrepreneurs. He explains how community pushback, city politics, and legal uncertainty shape every development project — and why reducing risk is both an art and a science.

Adam also talks about the lessons he learned from door-to-door sales, how he built his law firm by focusing on relationships and customer service, and why he believes in “failing forward.” He reflects on teaching his kids entrepreneurship, handling the pressures of balancing multiple businesses, and the importance of gratitude and mentorship.

Packed with behind-the-scenes stories, hard-won lessons, and inspiration for anyone in law, STEM, or entrepreneurship, this episode reveals what it takes to thrive in high-stakes, people-driven industries.

🔗 Listen to Adam’s podcast Dirt to Development: https://www.wmbattorneys.com/dirttodevelopment/
🔗 Follow Sound Cave Labs: www.youtube.com/@SoundCaveLabs

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, Kieren shares how her love of piano led her to acoustical research at BYU, architectural acoustics at Nebraska, and a PhD at Arizona State University. Now a scientist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, she works at the intersection of buildings, energy, and human experience — studying how indoor environments impact health, comfort, and performance.

We talk about her diverse internships with Copeland, the FBI, and the Naval Research Labs, as well as her publication on nationwide energy decision-making data. Kieren also opens up about balancing family and career, overcoming self-doubt, and the importance of mentorship and communication in STEM.

This episode is packed with insights for students, engineers, and anyone curious about the future of acoustics, energy, and building design.

🔗 Learn more about Pacific Northwest National Lab: https://www.pnnl.gov/
🔗 Connect with Sound Cave Labs: https://www.instagram.com/soundcavelabspodcast/

From F-18 fighter jets to NASA labs to launching Paxauris, Anthony Dietz has spent his career protecting ears.

In this episode of the Sound Cave Labs Podcast, Anthony shares his journey from aerospace engineering and noise research to becoming an entrepreneur with a mission: reinventing hearing protection. We talk about his early work on triple-layer hearing protection for Navy crews, his discovery of Surfer’s Ear, and the science behind Paxauris’ innovative inflatable earplug technology.

Anthony also dives into the challenges of measuring real-world noise exposure, why in-ear dosimeters are the future, and how engineers can make the leap into entrepreneurship. Whether you’re an acoustical engineer, STEM student, or just curious about how innovation happens, this conversation will leave you inspired.

🔗 Learn more about Paxauris: https://paxauris.com/
 🔗 Connect with Sound Cave Labs: https://www.instagram.com/soundcavelabspodcast/

What do firearms, industrial machinery, and pickleball all have in common? They produce impulse noise — sudden, high-intensity sounds that can cause serious hearing damage and carry major insurance liabilities.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rob Agnew, Technical Director at Liberty Mutual Insurance, to explore the world of impulse noise and risk communication within the field of Industrial Hygiene. From gunshots and industrial machinery to paddle pops, Rob helps break down what makes these sounds so harmful or not — and why communicating their risks is often just as challenging as mitigating them.

 We discuss:
-Rob’s journey into the field of Industrial Hygiene
-What defines an impulse noise and why it’s so damaging
-The complexities of risk communication in occupational safety
-The science behind firearm acoustics
-Why pickleball noise is more than just a neighborhood nuisance
-Practical advice for students and early-career professionals

If you're curious about how science, sound, and safety intersect, this conversation offers valuable insights into one of the most overlooked public and occupational health issues.

🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on Acoustics, Architecture, Aviation, Physics, Engineering, Design, Building Science, and Creativity!

How can we reduce noise from room to room in the spaces we live and work in? What scientific processes are used to design, test, and validate sound-isolating building materials?

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Shafer, Senior Acoustician at PABCO Gypsum, for a deep dive into the acoustical science behind drywall. Ben shares his journey into the field and walks us through how specific materials within wall assemblies contribute to quieter indoor environments.

We discuss:

• Ben’s path into acoustics and building science
  
  
  
• PABCO’s lineup of acoustically engineered drywall products
  
  
  
• The science and testing methods behind noise-reducing panels
  
  
  
• Key industry standards and professional organizations
  
  
  
• Advice for students and early-career professionals in acoustics
  
  
  

If you're curious about how science meets construction to shape quieter, more comfortable spaces, this episode offers a wealth of insight.

Can supersonic flight—and the sonic booms it produces—be quiet enough for overland travel? How can we guide and equip the commercial sector to ensure that the next generation of supersonic jets and eVTOLs are quiet enough to thrive without contributing to environmental noise?

In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Vaughn, a Research Aerospace Engineer in NASA’s Applied Acoustics Branch at the Langley Research Center, to explore these questions and more.

Aaron invites us into the world of auralization, simulation, and human response data—all essential tools for understanding how supersonic flight and the emerging technology of eVTOLs (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing vehicles) impact everyday life.

In this episode, we explore:

• Aaron’s role in the development of the X-59, NASA’s groundbreaking contribution to quiet supersonic flight
  
  
  
• How scientists tackle environmental noise challenges during the design phase
  
  
  
• The acoustic impact of the rapidly growing eVTOL industry—and how it can be mitigated
  
  
  
• Practical advice for students and early-career professionals aiming to work at NASA or in next-gen aerospace

If, like us, you're fascinated by the intersection of science, noise control, and aviation, this episode is packed with insights and innovative methods you won’t want to miss.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for further deep dives into Architecture, Aviation, Design, physics, engineering, creativity, and much more!

What does it really mean to be an architect today? In this episode, we sit down with Rob Huff, Senior Associate and Project Manager at Jones Studio, to explore the heart of architecture, beyond just the blueprints and buildings.

Rob shares his unique path into architecture, from early days in window tinting to designing powerful spiritual and public spaces. We discuss:

- The balance between creativity and practicality
- How budget constraints can drive innovative design
- The impact of AI on architecture
- The importance of collaboration in the design process

Whether you're an aspiring architect, architecture student, design enthusiast, or love powerful career stories, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and real talk about the future of design.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for further deep dives into architecture, design, physics, engineering, creativity, and much more!

Join us in welcoming Brad Kanwischer, a Senior Construction Manager at Hines, a leading global real estate investment management firm. Brad has extensive experience managing complex projects, occupational safety and health, and holds LEED Green Business certifications in the pursuit of building a healthier future for us all. Beyond his professional endeavors, Brad is deeply committed to philanthropy, notably serving as Co-Chair of the Big Dig for Kids event benefiting  @Phoenixchildrens Hospital.

 In this episode of Sound Cave Labs Podcast we speak with Mike Bahtiarian a seasoned acoustical engineer, he shares his journey from an unexpected college course to becoming a leader in noise control. With nearly 40 years in the industry, Mike has worked on everything from shipboard noise reduction for NOAA research vessels to pioneering new certification programs for noise measurement. As a former President of the Institute of Noise Control Engineers (INCE), he discusses the challenges of leading during COVID, the evolution of acoustical consulting, and advice for those looking to break into the field. Tune in for an inside look at the fascinating world of acoustical engineering! 

In this episode, we dive into the world of audio innovation with Katie Murphy Khulusi, Senior Engineering Director of Loudspeaker Development at Meyer Sound. From her electrical and audio engineering journey to leading groundbreaking projects like the Panther Line Array.

Katie shares insights into the evolving live sound industry, her mentorship efforts, and the future of acoustics!

In this episode of Sound Cave Labs Podcast, we speak with Derrick Knight, Lead Acoustical Engineer at Trane Technologies. Our conversation explores the intersection of sound, engineering, and innovation. With over 20 years of experience in HVAC sound design, acoustical modeling, and national standards development, Derrick provides insight into the role of AI in engineering. He breaks down how sound impacts HVAC system performance and efficiency and why acoustical engineering is crucial in modern building design. If you’re passionate about acoustics, engineering, or the future of sustainable buildings, this episode is packed with insightful conversations and career advice! 

Today, we speak with Roald Dietzman, a Mechanical Engineer and founder of Fast DMS. Roald reflects on his journey from a fledgling Mechanical Engineer in Washington State to a successful business owner. His innovative approach to business results from mastering your craft and thinking outside the box to add value to an industry. Our discussion leads to the “NECST” framework for creating sustainable business models. Moving beyond product ideas to developing proper business strategies is essential for long-term success. Aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned business owners, or simply someone who loves a great story, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and relatable moments.

 In this episode of SoundCaveLabs Podcast, we dive into the world of aerospace acoustical testing with Alex Carrella, PhD (CEO | MSI - DFAT EU + VP of Strategy and Growth | MSI - DFAT) and Bradley Hope (Sales Manager | MSI - DFAT). They share their experience and expertise in the testing methodology behind Direct Field Acoustic Testing (DFAT). This testing technique is transforming the aerospace industry by simulating the extreme conditions spacefaring craft may encounter upon liftoff. Explore the cutting-edge technology behind their speaker systems and the entrepreneurial spirit driving breakthroughs in high-tech industries. A must-see for engineering enthusiasts and innovators! 

 Join us for an enlightening conversation with Colby Buddelmeyer, a multidisciplinary engineer whose expertise has benefited @Samsung, @Apogee, @Boeing, and @HarmanIntl (@jbl @AKGAcoustics).

In this episode, Colby discusses the evolution of speaker technology and his involvement in the award-winning Revel Ultima Salon2 HiFi Speaker System (https://shorturl.at/kpsOP). He shares experiences from his career that illustrate the challenges and innovations in the Audio Engineering field, highlighting his contributions to developing robust, high-quality audio devices.

Looking toward the future, Colby provides insights into emerging trends in audio technology, particularly the shift toward spatial audio and its implications for consumer audio systems. The discussion explores the potential for more accessible and advanced audio solutions that could transform how consumers experience sound. 

As a PhD student in Aerospace Engineering, he is focused on developing new aerospace exploration technologies that can inspire and improve the world. During his undergraduate years, he worked in a research lab supporting NASA’s Quiet Supersonic Technology (QUESST) mission, measuring rocket launch acoustics, and reentry sonic booms of SpaceX’s Falcon 9. He also interned at NASA Langley Research Center, where he used machine learning and sonic boom prediction software to help prepare for the X-59’s first flights.

Now, at Stanford, he is entering the field of computational aerospace engineering. He aims to develop computational methods that will aid in designing the next generation of rockets, planes, spacecraft, and hypersonic systems.

He also strives to support the next generation of aerospace engineers. In an industry that can seem daunting and overwhelming, he is dedicated to providing knowledge, tools, and connections to those who need them.

 Check out Tagg's Podcast and newsletter here: https://www.theoverview.org/ 

Matt Green
Head of Acoustics - Logitech
BS | Electrical Engineering - BYU
MS | Acoustical Engineering - BYU

Matt Green is the Head of Acoustics at Logitech, based in Camas, Washington, USA. He has been involved with various innovative audio projects at Logitech, Logi G, Astro, and Ultimate Ears branded audio products, from proof of concept to mass production. His team has been responsible for developing well-regarded products like the Logitech G Pro X 2 and A50 X gaming headsets and UE Boom series of portable speakers, utilizing a blend of advanced engineering tools, including anechoic chambers, laser surface scanning, and 3D printing to improve the quality and reliability of their designs.​

Matt received a BS in Electrical Engineering and an MS in Acoustics from BYU. He worked in active noise and hearing aid research before transitioning into Acoustical Engineering. He joined Logitech in 2012 and later became the Sr. Manager of Acoustics in 2016, overseeing a team of engineers specializing in different areas of acoustics and audio technology. Matt currently serves as the Head of Acoustics for Logitech.

 Dr. Ed Garnero is a professor in the School of Earth and Space Exploration at  @arizonastateuniversity . He is celebrated for his work in Seismology, his  @TEDx Talk... and his scientific approach to building high-end custom bass guitars? 

Dr. Edward Garnero specializes in geophysics and seismology, but his journey has shifted to another passion, Lutherie. His "day job," as he calls it, is focused on studying the Earth's interior, from the uppermost mantle down to the core. One of his key contributions includes the study of massive structures deep in the Earth, such as "blobs" found at the core-mantle boundary, which are believed to be chemically distinct from the surrounding material and play a role in volcanic processes. 

As a Luthier, Dr. Garnero now implements his decades of scientific research into brilliant instruments. Garnero integrates unique design features like resonance chambers into his instruments, which reduce weight and enhance the tonal qualities of the guitars. He enjoys experimenting with tonal qualities and sonic vibrations, inspired by his scientific background and love of music. His basses are known for their custom craftsmanship, often incorporating rare woods and hardware, and have a distinct aesthetic rooted in both practicality and artistic expression. 

Garnero Guitars: https://garneroguitars.com 
Garnero Guitars Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garneroguitars/?hl=en Dr. Garnero's Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qOcedUi0EI 

Intro - 0:00
Bass Solo - 1:45
Dr. Garnero's background - 2:05
The evolution of Seismology and Ai - 3:04
Ed's Ted Talk and what Seismology - 5:45
What is an earthquake? - 6:55
The Earth is a ringing bell - 7:45
Understanding the inner workings of the Earth - 9:55
Dr. Garnero is an Astronaut - 15:40
We are the student, the data is our teacher - 17:32
What resonates with Dr. Garnero - 21:15
Dr. Garnero the professor - 23:08
Imposture syndrome - 24:23
Ed's perspective on life - 25:27
Garnero Guitars - 26:41
Not your average bass guitar - 30:54
The science behind Dr. Garnero's basses - 33:38
Bass Solo Outro - 38:45 

 Dj and Lauren Fotsch have worked with the likes of  @Apple ,  @Netflix ,  @Samsung , and  @humane . 

We covered a variety of topics from marketing to family life, forensic failure analysis to artificial intelligence. The topic of Ai really stuck with us... why do we fear Ai? Could we think of it as a benevolent "Assistive Intelligence" as opposed to a malevolent "Artificial Intelligence? ...and whats the difference? 

Here's what we came up with... 

Assistive intelligence: AI systems specifically designed to augment human abilities, providing support in tasks like decision-making, problem-solving, or daily activities without replacing human involvement. It is often collaborative, working alongside humans to enhance productivity and improve accessibility. 

Artificial intelligence: a broader range of technologies focused on replicating human-like cognitive functions such as learning, reasoning, and self-improvement, potentially functioning independently of human input. While assistive intelligence enhances human capability, general AI aims at creating autonomous systems that can perform tasks without human assistance. 

Dr. Tracianne Neilsen is a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Brigham Young University (BYU). She is known for her work in acoustics, particularly:

• Sound Propagation and Acoustic Wave Behavior: The study of how sound waves propagate through different media and environments.
• Noise Control: The study of the impact of various noise sources and developing methods to mitigate unwanted sound.
• Passive Sonar: The study of detecting underwater objects by listening to the sounds they produce, without emitting any signals.

Dr. Neilsen has authored and co-authored a number of research papers and articles in the field of acoustics. Some key areas covered in her publications include:

• Wave Field Synthesis and Acoustic Holography: Research on methods for reconstructing sound fields, which has applications in sound reproduction and noise control.
• Sound Field Characterization: Papers on understanding and characterizing sound fields in various environments, such as how sound behaves in underwater settings or complex media.
• Research on Signal Processing in Acoustics: Her work also includes signal processing techniques to analyze sound waves, which can be applied to environmental noise analysis and medical ultrasound.

Dr. Neilsen is actively involved in promoting the participation of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. She has engaged in various initiatives and programs aimed at:

• Mentorship and Support for Female Students: She mentors female students at BYU, encouraging them to pursue careers in physics, acoustics, and other STEM disciplines. Her mentorship often extends beyond academic guidance to include career advice and professional development.
• Women in Physics and Acoustics Initiatives: Dr. Neilsen has been involved with organizations and events that focus on supporting women in physics and acoustics. She participates in panels, workshops, and conferences that aim to address the challenges faced by women in these fields.
• Advocacy and Outreach: She is an advocate for creating a more inclusive environment in STEM fields, often participating in outreach activities that inspire young women to explore careers in science and engineering. Her involvement helps to raise awareness of gender disparities in STEM and promotes a more diverse and equitable academic environment.

Dr. Neilsen's work is significant not only in the realm of acoustics, but also in her efforts to foster a more inclusive and supportive community for women in STEM.