The biggest risk in hearing aid innovation is not dreaming too small, it’s shipping a promise that doesn’t survive real life. Starkey Sound Bites host, Dave Fabry, PhD, sits down with Dr. Maddie Olson, Starkey’s Manager of Clinical Product Research, to unpack how clinical research, verification, and product validation protect patients and providers when new hearing aid technology moves from the lab to the field. If you’ve ever wondered who makes sure a feature works on Tuesday afternoon in a noisy café, not just in a polished demo, this conversation is for you. 

We talk about what “validation” actually means: user requirements, regulatory expectations, safety and effectiveness, and proving meaningful benefit compared with what’s already on the market. Dr. Olson explains how Starkey recruits from a large participant database to find the right listeners for the right tests, and why trust and honest feedback are as critical as any instrument. We also explore how modern hearing aids have become full systems, including Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone app performance, and the growing need to consider the provider workflow, not just the signal processing. 

The conversation expands into hearing health and whole health, including balance, falls, and wellness research, plus how questionnaires can help connect hearing loss with outcomes like social isolation and depression. For clinicians, we dig into practical measures you can use now: APHAB, DOSO, Hearing Handicap Inventory, and QuickSIN for speech in noise. Dr. Olson also breaks down ecological momentary assessment and hearing aid data logging as tools to reduce recall bias and fine-tune fittings based on what patients actually experience, moment by moment. 

If this helped you think differently about audiology, clinical research, or hearing aid outcomes, subscribe, share it with a colleague, and leave a review so more hearing care pros can find it.

Auracast for Hearing Aids: What It Means for the Future

Chief Hearing Health Officer Dr. Dave Fabry sits down with Dr. Heike Heuermann, Starkey’s Vice President of Product Integration, to explore the transformational impact of Auracast™ assistant and Google Fast Pair™ on hearing technology. 

With more than two decades of experience across hearing science, engineering, systems design, and product management, Dr. Heuermann brings a unique holistic perspective on how cutting‑edge tech can reconnect people to the world around them. 

Together, Dave and Heike dive into: 

– How Auracast™ assistant works — Learn how this next‑generation broadcast audio technology allows a single sound source, like a TV, classroom, or place of worship, to stream high‑quality audio directly to multiple listeners at once. No accessories, no pairing hassles. 

– The end of pairing frustration — Heike explains how Google Fast Pair dramatically simplifies setup for Android users, creating seamless, automatic connectivity across phones, tablets, laptops, TVs, and more. 

If you’re curious about where hearing technology is heading, especially around connectivity, accessibility, and audio personalization, this episode is packed with insights.

Reality TV star Gerry Turner gets real about hearing loss. After he proudly wore hearing aids while looking for love on national television, Turner says no one should be embarrassed to wear them. In this episode, he talks about how hearing aids have positively impacted his life and urges others with hearing loss to stop letting stigma get in the way of being connected to the ones they love.

Link to transcript

At Starkey, our mission is to serve our customers better than anyone else. Our team answers 2,000 calls a day within five seconds. Those calls are answered by a live voice, and our operators know most of our customers by name. In this episode, Starkey’s Chief Customer Officer Chris Van Guilder explains why these statistics are so important for the success of our business, and why it’s important for hearing care providers to make customer service a priority for their patients.

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Rockstar legend Alice Cooper is back on tour and not letting hearing loss get in his way. He talks with Dave about how hearing loss is an unfortunate reality for many professional musicians — particularly rockers from his generation — and shares stories from his long and storied career, including working with Johnny Depp and Paul McCartney. A proud wearer of “clearing aids,” Alice encourages young musicians to put their hearing first and not let the stigma of hearing aids and hearing protection be a barrier to better hearing health.  

To learn more about Starkey hearing aids, visit Starkey.com

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As up-and-coming NASCAR driver William Sawalich prepares for his first Xfinity race, he sits down with Dave and his dad, Brandon, to talk about his racing career and why he’s passionate about hearing protection, especially at his young age. It’s a loud sport, and as we observe Protect Your Hearing Month this October, we hope this episode offers motivation to make hearing protection a priority. 

To learn more about Starkey’s industry-leading hearing protection product, SoundGear, visit SoundGear.com.

Link to full transcript.

Starkey’s latest hearing technology has arrived! Chief Technology Officer and EVP of Engineering Achin Bhowmik, Ph.D., sits down with Dave to share what excites him most about Edge AI. The highlights include: 30% more accuracy at identifying speech, 6 dB additional reduction in low-level noise, and 100 times the processing power, all while maintaining Starkey’s industry-leading 51 hours of battery life. Tune in for a deep dive that explains why this technology gives patients and professionals the edge they've been looking for.

To learn more about Edge AI, visit StarkeyPro.com

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Research shows people with mild hearing loss are three times more likely to have a history of falling than peers with normal hearing. In this episode, during National Falls Prevention Awareness Week, Dave chats with Dr. Patricia Gaffney, an audiologist with a specialty in vestibular diagnostics and treatment. They talk about emerging research, as well as the important role hearing professionals can play in helping their patients prevent falls.

As the only hearing aid manufacturer with fall detection and alerts built into our hearing aids, this is a topic we are passionate about. To learn more about these features in Starkey hearing aids, watch this video on the Starkey YouTube page.

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Loud noises are part of the job for first responders, but protecting their hearing is tricky because they must always maintain situational awareness. In this episode, a 40-year law enforcement veteran talks about the importance of hearing protection, and how SoundGear has been a game changer for the Arizona State University police department.  

To learn more about SoundGear, visit www.SoundGear.com.

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As Starkey’s R&D team celebrates nearly 300 years of collective work experience in the field of artificial intelligence, Dave sits down with Starkey’s Vice President of Advanced Development, Amit Shahar. They talk about Starkey’s journey to becoming the industry-leader in AI and DNN, including the strategic decision to establish a global R&D presence, with key operations in Tel Aviv, Israel. They also chat about their visions and predictions for the future of hearing aids. If you love a conversation that goes deep into the weeds on technology and how it’s developed, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

To learn more about the latest in Starkey’s hearing technology, visit StarkeyPro.com.

Link to full transcript.

In this episode, we turn the tables on our host, Dave Fabry. For the first time, Dr. Fabry finds himself on the other side of the Sound Bites microphone, to take our listeners on a deep dive into Starkey’s industry-leading hearing technology. From artificial intelligence (AI) to deep neural networks (DNN), learn how this technology is making life better for patients and how hearing professionals can take small steps toward implementing it into their practices. Hearing Matters host Doug Beck guest hosts this special episode of Sound Bites.

To learn more about the latest in Starkey’s hearing technology, visit starkeypro.com

Link to full transcript.

Three up-and-coming hearing healthcare professionals share their thoughts on the future of the industry and what excites them the most about it. Recorded during Starkey University week on the Starkey campus, Dave talks with Andrew Setrum, Janna Hines Orr, Hailey Kingsbury and Starkey’s own Cassie Billiet. We encourage hearing healthcare professionals of any age to take a listen and be reminded about what inspired you to get involved in this industry. You can also learn about more Starkey learning opportunities at StarkeyPro.com.

Link to full transcript.

Dr. Sheryl Figliano shares easy, yet powerful, ways for hearing health providers to improve patient experiences and drive better business outcomes. One of her tips was a lightbulb moment for many private practitioners attending Starkey’s CEO Circle earlier this year. In this episode, Dave gets the inside scoop, as well as her thoughts on helping patients get on board with new technology, including artificial intelligence in hearing aids.

In this summer rerun of one of our more popular episodes, Dave interviews Dr. Seth Dobrin, an expert in artificial intelligence (AI) and a hearing aid user. They discuss Dr. Dobrin's journey to getting hearing aids, the stigma associated with hearing loss, and the positive impact that hearing aids have had on his life. They also delve into the topic of AI, including the potential benefits and challenges it presents.

Dr. Dobrin emphasizes the importance of responsible AI and human-centric design, particularly in the context of healthcare and the workforce. He predicts that AI will create more jobs in the future. Dr. Dobrin also shares his wishes for the future of hearing aids, including seamless translation capabilities and the integration of health monitoring features.

Link to full transcript. 

In this special episode, we're celebrating a big milestone. Starkey President and CEO Brandon Sawalich is marking 30 years in the hearing industry this month. To commemorate the anniversary, Dave asked Brandon 30 questions—one for each year he's dedicated to this field. Brandon shares insights from his experience across various roles within Starkey, all of which have given him a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

They also chat about some groundbreaking Starkey moments. Under Brandon’s leadership, Starkey pioneered the incorporation of integrated sensors and was the first to utilize artificial intelligence and health and wellness technology in hearing health products. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

Link to full transcript.

World-renowned tinnitus research scientist Dr. James Henry shares key insights from decades of testing and validating methods for evaluation and management. His work at the Veterans Health Administration has played a pivotal role in identifying tinnitus relief for veterans, which is the number one service-related disability. Listen in as Dr. Henry offers practical tips for anyone suffering from tinnitus and his thoughts on what the future of treatment may hold.  

To learn more about Starkey’s tinnitus treatment options, go to www.StarkeyPro.com

Link to full episode transcript here. 

Let’s dive into the world of fitting formulas! In this episode, Dave chats with Dr. Andrea Hannan Dawkes, a Starkey expert who frequently trains professionals on best practices. They discuss how fitting formulas have changed over the years, why they’re important for patient satisfaction, proprietary fitting formulas, and the benefits of Starkey’s own Pro Fit fitting software. Hope you enjoy!  

Link to the full episode transcript here.

In this episode of the SoundBites podcast, host Dave Fabry compiles answers from various guests to three personal questions about hearing. The first question asks what sound the guests would miss the most if they couldn't hear their best. Answers range from the sound of heels clicking on tile to children's laughter and the music of family. The second question asks for memorable moments or events where sound played a key role, with responses including performing on stage, hearing the bugling of an elk, and the sound of birds in the morning. The final question asks about the guests' least favorite sound, with answers including people brushing their teeth, a child's shriek, and the screeching of subway wheels. The episode also promotes Starkey's Best Sound Ever contest, where people can vote for the best sound in the world.

Link to the episode transcript here. 

Join us for the continuation of our insightful conversation with Dr. Gyl Kasewurm, a seasoned audiologist and business owner with over 30 years of experience. Dr. Kasewurm shares her wealth of knowledge on all things audiology and business, discussing the evolution of technology, patient care, and key performance indicators (KPIs) essential for building a successful practice.

In the latest Sound Bites podcast, Dr. Kasewurm and Dr. Dave Fabry delve into the significance of KPIs beyond just help rate, exploring how small changes in business strategies can yield significant results. They emphasize the importance of reframing trial periods for hearing aids to ensure patients are committed and invested in their treatment journey from the start.

Moreover, they discuss the shifting landscape of hearing healthcare, especially with the booming boomer generation becoming more proactive about their hearing health. Dr. Kasewurm reflects on her transition into a new phase of her career and the ongoing joy she finds in helping others and staying connected to her passion.

Whether you're a seasoned audiologist or a business owner looking to enhance your practice, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips to navigate the dynamic intersection of audiology and business.

Link to full transcript here. 

In this episode of Starkey SoundBites, Dr. Dave Fabry interviews Dr. Gyl Kasewurm, a renowned audiologist and small business owner. They discuss the challenges of running a small business in the hearing care industry and the importance of providing excellent patient care. Dr. Kasewurm shares her experiences and insights on building a successful practice, including the need to focus on patient satisfaction and the importance of measuring outcomes.

Dr. Gyl emphasizes the value of technology in improving patient outcomes and the need for practitioners to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements. She advises practitioners to focus on a few key manufacturers to become experts in their technology and to carefully manage costs to ensure profitability. The episode concludes with a teaser for the second part of the interview, where they will continue the discussion on business strategies and best practices.

Link to full transcript

In a special episode of Starkey Soundbites, we welcome two hearing aid industry legends: Starkey's founder and chairman, Bill Austin, and Karl Strom, Editor-in-Chief of Hearing Tracker, for an enlightening discussion hosted by Dr. Dave Fabry. The episode outlines the journey of innovation that led hearing aids to have all of the remarkable capabilities they have today and recounts the transition from custom-made hearing aids to digital hearing aids, and to today’s devices that offer a range of beneficial features for overall health monitoring and connectivity.  

After more than six decades in the hearing industry, Bill Austin shares what he has learned throughout his impressive career, and his experience with the many groundbreaking developments that have changed countless people’s lives. He discusses his fascinating journey in the industry, starting with how he began making ear molds and later developing in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids. Mr. Austin’s unique strategies, such as offering all-make-repair service and ensuring fast delivery, have transformed the hearing aid market within the US and globally. 

Karl Strom reflects on the changes he has seen in the hearing industry throughout his career and emphasizes the importance of honest reporting in disseminating information to patients and providers. This episode presents an inspiring testament to the transformational potential of technology when used for the betterment of humanity. 

Link to full transcript here. 

Dr. Dave Fabry and Dr. Sara Burdak discuss the recent updates and features released by Starkey. They talk about the advancements in AI and DNN, particularly the evolution of Edge Mode into Edge Mode+, which is now automatic and dynamically adjusts to different listening environments. They also discuss improvements in connectivity, including asynchronous remote programming and direct linking for easier and more convenient adjustments.

Additionally, they highlight the new Signature Series, which includes the world's smallest rechargeable CIC and the implementation of Edge Mode in non-wireless CIC models. They emphasize the importance of high-quality impressions for custom products and the need for professionals to slow down and ensure accurate impressions for better fitting devices. Finally, they touch on the significance of World Hearing Day and International Women's Day, with Dr. Burdak encouraging women in STEM fields to have an open mind and consider various career opportunities within audiology.

Read full transcript here

During Tinnitus Awareness Week, Dave dives into the topic with a Starkey subject matter expert: Dr. Jamie Hand. While you may be aware that veterans experience higher rates of tinnitus than the general public, you may be surprised to learn another group is at high risk -- dentists and dental hygienists. Dr. Hand talks about the findings of a study she conducted that show the need for hearing protection and hearing screenings within this profession. She and Dave also talk about treatment for ringing in the ears, red flags for both patients and providers, and tips for hearing professionals on how to best assist people struggling with this oftentimes frustrating condition. 

Link to episode transcript

In this episode of Starkey SoundBites, Dr. Dave Fabry, Starkey's Chief Hearing Health Officer, interviews Dr. Kristy Lowery, Audibel's Director of Clinical Operations, about the importance of hearing aid accessories. They discuss how accessories can enhance the benefits of hearing aids and provide specific examples of how accessories like the TV Streamer, Table Mic, Remote Control, and Remote Mic can improve the listening experience in various situations. They emphasize the need for clinicians to recommend accessories to their patients, as they can significantly improve their hearing journey!  

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Dr. K. Renee Horton, a NASA scientist, author, and hearing aid wearer, discusses her experience with hearing loss and the impact of wearing her new Starkey Genesis hearing aids. She shares that she initially resisted wearing hearing aids when she was diagnosed with hearing loss at a younger age due to stigma and concerns about how others would view her and her capabilities. However, after being fitted with the hearing aids, she was amazed at all the sounds she was missing. 

She also noticed improvements in her ability to hear and communicate in various environments, including during public speaking engagements and her book signings and giveaways. Dr. Horton emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of the brain in hearing and encourages individuals with hearing loss to seek professional help and not let stigma or concerns hold them back from improving their hearing. She also highlights the importance of staying updated with the latest hearing aid technology and working with healthcare professionals to find the right fit. 

You won’t want to miss this engaging and entertaining episode!

Link to episode transcript

In this episode of Starkey SoundBites, host Dave Fabry interviews Brandon Sawalich, the president and CEO of Starkey, about the future of the hearing industry. Sawalich reflects on the advancements in technology in 2023 and discusses the importance of patient-driven care in 2024. He emphasizes the role of hearing professionals in providing personalized service and highlights the need for continued investment in oneself and the adoption of new products and technologies. Sawalich also addresses the impact of over-the-counter hearing aids and the future of private practice. He concludes by discussing the potential of Bluetooth low energy audio and the My Starkey app, as well as the importance of caring for patients and differentiating oneself through exceptional service.

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Have you questioned your understanding of the hearing care professional's journey with their patients? Join us as we delve into this intricate journey with Michael Tease, Chief Retail Officer for Audibel. We explore how each professional's commitment to their patients leads to life-altering improvements in hearing loss treatments. Michael shares how his diverse background, spanning from law to the hearing aid industry, as well as his family history of hearing impairment, shaped his understanding of hearing loss and the dedicated professionals treating it.The conversation also dives into how retail strategies are revolutionizing the healthcare sector. Michael reveals how they've implemented these strategies at Audibel, from merchandising displays to a hybrid model of care that includes telehealth services. This intersection of healthcare and retail shows how it not only benefits patients but also provides a competitive advantage for hearing care providers.Topics such as the tech-savvy baby boomer generation, the impact of social media, and changing expectations surrounding hearing aids are all discussed. This episode concludes with a look at the connection between hearing aids and preserving cognitive function in the aging population. It's a conversation about how new technologies are changing perceptions and the importance of staying mentally engaged. Don't miss out - tune in and be a part of this enlightening conversation!

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In this episode of Starkey Sound Bites, host Dr. Dave Fabry interviews Dr. Seth Dobrin, an expert in artificial intelligence (AI) and a hearing aid user. They discuss Dr. Dobrin's journey to getting hearing aids, the stigma associated with hearing loss, and the positive impact that hearing aids have had on his life. They also delve into the topic of AI, including the potential benefits and challenges it presents.

Dr. Dobrin emphasizes the importance of responsible AI and human-centric design, particularly in the context of healthcare and the workforce. He predicts that AI will create more jobs in the future. Dr. Dobrin also shares his wishes for the future of hearing aids, including seamless translation capabilities and the integration of health monitoring features.

Link to full transcript

Ever wondered how hearing aid software products are developed and improved based on user feedback? Dr. Dave Fabry talks to Laura Woodworth, Principal Product Manager at Starkey, about her journey in working to create Starkey’s Pro Fit fitting software. Laura's story starts from her time in speech pathology, transitions into a clinical fellowship year at Starkey, and lands into her current role focused on creating the best fitting software in the industry.    We dig deep into the fascinating process of developing Pro Fit, a software that marries feedback from customers and stakeholders. Laura emphasizes how the team at Starkey integrated 'Aha moments' into their creation process to solve common issues. Our conversation also veers towards Telehear, the innovative collaboration between the fitting software and mobile app, which offers clinicians comprehensive data for informed decisions. Laura also shares her thoughts on the growing importance of Telehealth and how My Starkey enhances the user experience with self-check and diagnostic tools. Prepare to be inspired and informed as you journey through this narrative of development, innovation, and user-centric strategy. 

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This episode promises a deep understanding of the intricacies behind Starkey's operations, straight from the voice of our Chief Sales Officer, Jeff Geigel. We navigate the European landscape discussing Starkey's growing presence in markets like France and Germany. Listen as we share our experiences from the significant annual European Congress (EUHA), an event that allows us to connect with partners, employees, and customers to showcase how we prioritize patients in our daily operations.Here's a fascinating fact about the current hearing aid landscape - customer expectations show intriguing variations across different regions. Jeff provides a richly detailed exploration of how our Genesis AI technology has been meeting and exceeding these expectations, driving impressive user acceptance and satisfaction. We share our thoughts on the importance of delivering natural sound, spatial awareness, and soft speech intelligibility, and the unique benefits of our wireless CICs in different markets. EUHA plays a critical role in this context, serving as a platform to gather invaluable feedback from customers worldwide.Have you ever wondered about the future of hearing aid technology and the role of professional interventions in different markets? We wrap up the discussion with an engaging conversation about Starkey's future plans for development and international expansion. Jeff discusses the specifics, covering Edge Mode, Self-Check features of Genesis AI, and the strategic use of Kevlar in the snap-fit process. As we appreciate the collaborations and insights that have significantly contributed to increasing the adoption of our technology, we promise you an enlightening journey through the world of Starkey and hearing aid technology.

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Join us on a unique journey as we chat with Derek Johnson, the man behind the Insta-famous duck, Ben Afquack. Derek's not your typical IT professional - he's leveraged his creative flair and duck-loving passion to make serious waves on social media. If you've ever wondered how to cut through the noise and stand out in the crowded digital landscape, Derek's story is sure to inspire. The secret sauce? Authenticity, a consistent theme, and quality content. We discuss how these elements can help you build a strong following on social media, whether you're promoting a business or a pet. But it's not just about numbers - Derek stresses the importance of resonating with your audience. Learn how to avoid filler content and make every post impactful and engaging.But let's not forget about the star of the show - Ben Afquack. Learn how Derek balances internet fun with social good, using his platform to support mental health resources and grow a small business. So, whether you're a social media newbie or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights that are sure to ruffle your feathers (in the best possible way).

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Strap in for an adrenaline-charged dialogue with up-and-coming race car driver, 16-year-old William Sawalich. He's not just about speed and precision on the track, but also an animal lover, drum enthusiast, and an advocate for hearing health and hearing protection. William shares his journey from racing quarter midgets and Legend Cars to stepping into the fast-paced ARCA Series, all while delving into the significance of hearing health in his journey.The conversation takes an exciting turn as we discuss the art of balancing communication with noise exposure with his crew, which is a daunting challenge faced by many in the sport. However, with his custom SoundGear racing ear molds, William is able to effectively communicate with his team while on the track. We explore his victories in the ARCA Series, a pit stop before he shifts gears to the NASCAR Xfinity series. Fasten your seat belts for an exhilarating ride into the world of motorsports guided by William Sawalich's unique perspective.

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Ever wonder how your hearing and balance play a significant role in preventing falls, especially for older adults? Our latest podcast episode brings you an enlightening conversation with Dr. Richard Gans, a global authority on hearing and balance. A personal journey driven by his mother's struggle with intractable Meniere’s disease led him to audiology and shaped his commitment to understanding and treating vertigo. He reflects on the early days of Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) and Electrocochleography (ECOG), while emphasizing his drive and desire to earn his PhD.

As we mark Fall Prevention Awareness Week, we delve deeper into the labyrinth of the audio-vestibular system. This complex network, akin to a duplex, comprises of the cochlea, or the flat, and the vestibular system, or the townhouse. Dr. Gans shares his transition from retail to a medical model in his practice, highlighting the importance of healthcare providers to stay relevant. As we round up our conversation, we underscore the imperative of collaborative healthcare and discuss patient validation and take inspiration from the optometry model that exemplifies team-based care. Tune in for an insightful discourse on the correlation between hearing-balance and fall prevention!

Link to the full transcript. 

Starkey is at the forefront of innovation, continuing to push the edge of what is possible. If you have ever wondered how hearing technology is developed, Dr. Dave Fabry and Nate Johnson, Starkey’s Director of Product Management, have a detailed discussion on how key decisions are made, how critical feedback from both hearing care professionals and patients is incorporated into product development, and the complexity of hearing aid development cycles. 

Dave and Nate have a candid discussion on how by transforming hearing aids from single function listening enhancement devices into multi-functional and multipurpose health and communication tools with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence technologies, today’s hearing aids have sophisticated and groundbreaking technology that is having a real impact on people’s lives. 

Learn more about the addition of new products to the impressive Genesis AI product line, as well as new enhancements designed to offer unprecedented benefits to both patients and hearing healthcare professionals. 

Link to full transcript. 

Justin Osmond, who is part of the famous Osmond family, has navigated the world of hearing loss since birth. In this enlightening conversation, Justin talks candidly about the emotional roller coaster associated with hearing loss, discussing the pressing need for early detection, intervention, and support.  Growing up with severe to profound hearing loss posed unique challenges for Justin, from playing sports to interacting with peers while wearing hearing aids. Yet, he did more than just survive; he thrived, thanks to technological advancements boosting his confidence and easing his nerves. Justin reflects on the impact hearing loss has had on his mental health  - and how he was able to overcome his anxiety and isolation associated, educating those around him and even turning the tide on bullying. The game-changer? Starkey’s Genesis AI, an innovation that has transformed his life and armed him with a new superpower.  Justin and Dave also delve into the profound impact of hearing aid technology on his life and those around him, including reduced anxiety, the sheer joy of participation in daily activities, and the thrill of experiencing clarity and understanding that was previously elusive. Join us to hear Justin's hearing journey and discover the invaluable role of hearing aids in reducing anxiety, overcoming hurdles, and living a fulfilling life. It's a conversation that promises to be as informative as it is inspiring. 

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What if your newborn was diagnosed with hearing loss? How would you navigate the intricate journey of early diagnosis, the emotional toll, and strategizing the best possible care for your child? Nicky Hemann from Starkey's HR leadership team shares her experience raising her daughter Kaylee, who presents with a severe to profound hearing loss as a result of Cytomegalovirus (CMV).   From the shock of the initial diagnosis to having her daughter implanted with cochlear implants, Nicky unfolds the narrative of her family's experience. You'll glean invaluable insights as Nicky shares their routine of attending both an oral school and a deaf school, and the underlying importance of allowing Kaylee to choose her preferred mode of communication. We conclude this episode with Nicky’s advice for parents grappling with similar situations, advice for professionals on how to best communicate difficult news to patients, and her heartfelt account of how she's helping Kaylee lead a fulfilling life. Tune in to our episode to learn about the power of support and awareness. 

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In this special episode, Dr. Dave Fabry and Dr. Jamie Hand untangle the intricate findings of the long-awaited ACHIEVE Study that just dropped last week. It revealed a startling 48% reduction in cognitive decline among a specific group, shedding light on the power of intervention. We were excited to discuss how this vital data can be used to empower and educate patients about comorbidities linked to untreated hearing loss. 

We also delve into how the ACHIEVE Study showcases the life-changing impact of hearing loss intervention in reducing feelings of loneliness. The impressive figure of 94% of patients believing their hearing aids were worthwhile after continuous use for three years speaks volumes. Finally, we discussed the importance of monitoring physical and social activity using innovative tools like Starkey's Hear Share app. Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of hearing health? Let's get started!

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Running a hearing healthcare practice is complex and ever-changing. In this episode, a second-generation hearing pro talks about her journey of building a successful private practice. Madison Levine shares practical insights about growth opportunities, enhancing your service delivery model and engaging with the community to build awareness of your business. She’s also an ambassador for Starkey’s Listen Carefully initiative and talks about the benefits of getting involved.    

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We continue to put Genesis AI hearing aids to the test. In this episode, you’ll hear directly from hearing professionals who have tried them, fit them, and are out in the field right now offering them to their patients. From sound quality and battery life to Pro Fit for hearing professionals, more than two dozen people share their reactions to our all-new hearing technology. Have you tried Genesis AI yet? We’d love to hear from you!   

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June 21st marks the longest day of the year. For the Alzheimer’s Association, The Longest Day is an important day of awareness and fundraising. In this episode, Dave sits down with Dr. Heather Snyder, Vice President of Medical and Scientific Affairs at the Alzheimer’s Association, to discuss the ongoing research into the connection between hearing loss and dementia. One of the latest studies, which found that treating hearing loss could mean reducing the risk of dementia, was released in The Lancet this spring. Dr. Snyder also talks about the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s Disease, and why it’s important for hearing healthcare providers to be aware of them.  

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Take a deep dive into the research and development behind Starkey’s waterproof Genesis AI hearing aids. In this episode, Dave chats with Brian Dahl, Starkey’s Vice President of Quality and Regulatory about the rigorous testing that went into these devices and why moisture is such a big deal for hearing aid wearers. 

Want to learn more about Starkey’s waterproof Genesis AI hearing aids? Check out this white paper and infographic.

Link to full transcript

Audibel’s Global Director of TeleHear and Clinical Training, Kristy Lowery, Ph.D., joins Dave to discuss the evolution of telehealth in the hearing industry, explain how the pandemic made it mainstream, share real world telehealth success stories, and make the case for why every hearing professional should implement it.

Link to full transcript 

Starkey President and CEO Brandon Sawalich stopped by the podcast this month to highlight growing opportunities for hearing healthcare professionals to help more people than ever before. This May, which is the first Better Hearing and Speech Month since the FDA created a new category for OTC hearing aids, Sawalich reflects on how hearing healthcare professionals can take advantage of OTC as a steppingstone towards greater awareness about hearing health. He and Dave also chat about Starkey’s latest hearing technology, Genesis AI, and how it stands up to the competition.

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A recent study by the American Journal of Audiology found rates of tinnitus within the U.S. Army to be much higher than the general population. In this episode, Dave talks with Dr. Brandon Rawlings, an audiologist and an active member of the U.S. Army Reserves about the hearing health of our service men and women, and resources for treatment and support.

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What is Auditory Processing Disorder? How does it interfere with how the brain processes sound? How can you help patients who are struggling with APD and may not even know it?

In this episode, Dave talks with Dr. Angela Loucks Alexander, an audiologist and founder of the Auditory Processing Institute. They answer those questions and much more – including the difference between oral rehabilitation and auditory training, and why vulnerability is a key to truly understanding your patients in order to help them live their best lives. 

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Starkey’s revolutionary hearing technology was designed specifically to make life easier for hearing healthcare providers. In this episode, Starkey’s Chief Audiology Officer and Executive Vice President of Product Strategy, Dr. Sara Burdak, joins Dave to talk about exactly what that means. From fitting software that works in a matter of minutes to a more intuitive app, learn about the decisions that went into Genesis AI – all of them, with the provider in mind.

Link to Full Transcript. 

Starkey’s Genesis AI is our greatest engineering achievement to date. The journey to reach the recent launch of Genesis AI began in 2017, when Achin Bhowmik, Ph.D., stepped into the role of Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Engineering at Starkey. The former Intel Corporation executive and Starkey President and CEO Brandon Sawalich kept the project under wraps for five years. In this episode of Starkey Sound Bites, Dr. Bhowmik shares the backstory with podcast host and Chief Innovation Officer Dave Fabry. He also dives into the high-tech details of what separates Genesis AI hearing aids from the rest:  they are built to mimic the brain. Find out what this means for the patient experience and where hearing healthcare providers will see the benefits.

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World Hearing Day is observed every year on March 3. This year, to mark this important occasion, Dave sat down for an extended conversation with Dr. Sara Burdak, Starkey’s Chief Audiology Officer, and Michael Scholl, Starkey’s Executive Vice President of Corporate Relations. They discuss a wide range of topics related to the importance of better hearing, including the startling projection by the World Health Organization that upwards of 700 million people by 2050 will have a disabling degree of hearing loss. For this year’s World Hearing Day theme, the WHO put special emphasis on highlighting the importance of integrating hearing care into overall healthcare, and specifically within primary care. The Starkey panel talks about all of that and much more in this special edition of Starkey Sound Bites.

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Dr. Jessica Dimmick wears many hats: audiologist, business owner and civic leader for the hearing industry. In this episode, she shares insights from across the wide spectrum of her career experience. Dr. Dimmick talks about her early days as an audiologist, and how she’s grown her practice, Hearing Doctors of the Heartland, across three states in the Midwest. She also offers insights from her experience as an ambassador for Starkey’s Listen Carefully initiative, which aims to bridge the conversation between hearing healthcare providers and lawmakers in Washington, D.C. Learn about best practices for your clinic, tips for young hearing healthcare professionals just starting out, why she thought OTC would mean the demise of her career and what changed her mind, and much more.

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During Tinnitus Awareness Week, Dave dives into the topic with a Starkey subject matter expert: Dr. Jamie Hand. While you may be aware that veterans experience higher rates of tinnitus than the general public, you may be surprised to learn another group is at high risk -- dentists and dental hygienists. Dr. Hand talks about the findings of a study she conducted that show the need for hearing protection and hearing screenings within this profession. She and Dave also talk about treatment for ringing in the ears, red flags for both patients and providers, and tips for hearing professionals on how to best assist people struggling with this oftentimes frustrating condition.  

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Resources:

To read Dr. Jamie Myers Hand’s study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27991466/

To learn more about tinnitus click here: https://www.starkey.com/tinnitus

From telehealth to OTC, Dr. Kent Collins has spent his career turning potential threats into growth opportunities for hearing care practices across the country. As the Global Director of Clinical Operations for Audibel, Dr. Collins has developed strategies for success and compiled the data to prove they work. In this episode, he and Dave talk tactics for business growth in this new era of OTC hearing aids, why hearing healthcare professionals have a huge advantage over the competition, and why patient satisfaction should continue to be the top priority.   

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Every case of hearing loss is unique, and so is every ear. Ray Woodworth understands this so well, he teaches a class called “The Ear is the Boss”. For more than 20 years, Woodworth has worked alongside Starkey founder Bill Austin, mastering the craft of custom hearing aid solutions. In this episode, he explains why understanding the structure of someone’s ear is the key to treating their hearing loss, and why OTC hearing aids aren’t the right fit for everyone. He also shares some tricks of the trade when you’re shooting an ear mold impression and how to help your patients through the process. This episode is packed with news hearing care providers can use. Don’t miss it!  

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The Honorable Alan Page joins Dave to talk about his hearing loss journey, fighting stigma, and why he requested blue Evolv AI custom hearing aids. He also reflects on a legendary career in which he broke many barriers, including as an MVP in the NFL and as a Minnesota Supreme Court Justice. Hear why Justice Page believes failure leads to more opportunities than success, and why he continues to choose growth over stagnation. This is a conversation that will motivate and inspire you, as we prepare for new opportunities in the new year!    

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Tracy Markley — acclaimed author, hearing aid wearer and fitness trainer who focuses on stroke survivors — joins Dave to discuss the many connections between stroke treatment and hearing loss treatment, the importance of shortening the time between diagnosis and treatment, smart uses for our Table Mic accessory, and the inspiration for her new book, “I’m Not Stupid, I Have Hearing Loss.”

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Jake Spano, Starkey’s Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, and Michael Scholl, EVP of Corporate Relations, kick off the holiday season by talking to Dave about Starkey Cares, its Neighbors in Need program, how hearing professionals can participate, and why something as small as the sound of jingling coins can make such a huge impact on a person’s life.

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Dave talks to Barbara Kelley, Executive Director of the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), about the organization’s mission of opening the world of communication to people with hearing loss, how they’re raising awareness of hearing aids, hearing aid adoption rates, and emerging technologies that are making the future of better hearing bright.

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For this National Protect Your Hearing Month, Dave talks to Luke Maresh, product manager for SoundGear, about loud jobs, the difference between passive and active hearing protection, why custom-fit products beat foamies every time, and the many ways adding SoundGear to your product portfolio is smart business both short term and long.

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Dr. Grace Sturdivant, of OtoPro Technologies, joins Dave during National Protect Your Hearing Month to share how she got into the hearing conservation business, why more hearing care professionals should embrace and sell hearing protection products in their practices, and how focusing on the needs of patients always leads to good things.

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Dr. Sara Burdak, Starkey’s Chief Audiology Officer and EVP of Product Strategy, returns to the podcast for Healthy Aging Month to explain why treating hearing loss is key to helping us successfully age at home. She and Dave also discuss the latest release of our popular Evolv AI hearing aids — including updates to sound quality, Edge Mode and TeleHear — that take their performance to the next level, as well as why our Fall Detection and Alert feature deserves all the positive attention it’s been getting.

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Peter Korn, Director of Accessibility for Amazon’s Devices organization, and Achin Bhowmik, Starkey’s Chief Technology Officer and EVP of Engineering, talk to Dave about the rapid pace of innovation specifically designed to help people with hearing loss. This includes their collaboration on Amazon’s Fire TV Cube, which enables it to stream exclusively to compatible Starkey hearing aids for private listening from favorite streaming services, apps, games, and even Alexa.

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In this special episode of Starkey Sound Bites, Brandon Sawalich, Starkey President and CEO, joins Dave to give his reaction to the FDA’s long-awaited over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid regulation, and explain why the hearing care professional will always be integral to better hearing.

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Dave invites best-selling author and serial entrepreneur Mike Maddock to the podcast to discuss what makes disruptive innovators tick, why it’s so difficult to change behavior, prediction markets, flourish forums, and why the most successful businesses have both ring leaders and idea monkeys.

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Professional athlete and longtime hearing aid wearer, Tyson Gillies, tells Dave what it’s like being an elite athlete with hearing loss, how he had to work extra hard to overcome other’s perception of his loss, the toll it takes on your mental health, and how — with help from his hearing professional and modern hearing technology — he’s been able to maintain his competitive edge.

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Disability rights advocate, public speaker and Vietnam veteran, Richard Pimentel, takes Dave through his hearing loss story, why he refused to change his dreams to fit his situation, how he became a key player during the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the difference between backpacks and baggage.

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Jessica Perez, Starkey’s Chief People Officer and Executive VP of Culture, sits down with Dave to explain how COVID blurred the lines between business and personal, why hiring for culture is so important, being your authentic self, flexible work policies, and creating an environment that cultivates success.

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Audibel’s Global Director of TeleHear and Clinical Training, Kristy Lowery, Ph.D., joins Dave to discuss the evolution of telehealth in the hearing industry, explain how the pandemic made it mainstream, share real world telehealth success stories, and make the case for why every hearing professional should implement it.

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While in town from his home in Zambia, Dr. Alfred Mwamba stops by the studio to share with Dave how he got into audiology via tennis, the idiosyncrasies of hearing loss and hearing health in Africa, advocating for better hearing, and making the choice to serve and change lives.

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What’s new in hearing aids? Which one is right for me? Can they relieve my tinnitus? And aren’t they all the same? Host Dave Fabry, Ph.D, Archelle Georgiou, MD, and Jamie Myers, Au.D. answer these questions and more in this special Better Hearing Month podcast.

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Dave invites Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of The Special Olympics, to the podcast to discuss his organization’s alliance with Starkey Cares, never saying “I’m just…”, putting the power of connections over “things”, and creating a movement that’s a welcome place for people who want to make a difference.

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Starkey President and CEO, Brandon Sawalich, sits down with Dave to discuss why Covid erased any doubts that hearing is essential, how Starkey never stopped innovating during the pandemic, industry challenges and opportunities, the Starkey Expo, and why focusing on the patient has been a key to our success.

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Thorsten Quaas, Starkey’s VP of European Sales, talks to Dave about his 36 years in the industry, how hearing aid technology has changed during that time, the art of custom devices, and what people outside of the U.S. are looking for from hearing aids.

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Dave talks to Justin Osmond about growing up hard of hearing in a musical family, being a hearing aid power user, the awesomeness of accessories, and why — even though he may have hearing loss — he refuses to let hearing loss have him.

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Peter Scheifele, Ph.D., calls in from the University of Cincinnati’s FETCHLAB to discuss how he began studying animal audiology, what humans have learned from animal hearing research, how to know if your pet is deaf, and hearing aids for dogs.

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Starkey’s Chief Philanthropy Officer, Tani Austin, joins Dave to discuss strong women role models, Starkey Cares, fitting hearing aids on people across the globe, and always putting the patient first.

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Dave talks to Starkey’s Founder, Owner and Chairman, Bill Austin, about how he got his start in the hearing industry, his quest to help the world hear, what he loves about custom hearing aids, and why caring is at the core of what we do.

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The one and only Huey Lewis joins Dr. Dave to share his path to being a rock star, how Menière’s disease cut his singing career short, and why he recommends hearing aids to anyone with hearing loss.

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Our Chief Technology Officer and EVP of Engineering, Achin Bhowmik, Ph.D., tells Dave what brought him to Starkey, how AI is a hearing technology game changer, and the many ways his team is turning hearing aids into want-to-have devices.

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HIA president, Kate Carr, and director of public policy & advocacy, Bridget Dobyan, call in to discuss what MarkeTrak data tells us about prescription hearing aids vs. PSAPs, the state of OTC legislation, and how they’re working to advocate on behalf of patient-driven hearing healthcare.

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Starkey’s Chief Compliance Officer and EVP of Corporate Relations, Michael Scholl, joins Dave to discuss how OTC, potential Medicare expansions and other developments in Washington, D.C. will impact hearing professionals and end users, what Starkey is doing to help guide new regulations, and how hearing professionals can ensure their voices are heard.

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Dr. Dave talks to the hearing industry’s only Chief Health Officer, Archelle Georgiou, MD, about her unique and important role here at Starkey, how hearing loss effects our overall health, why hearing professionals are vital to the healthcare ecosystem, and hearing loss during the holidays. 

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In our inaugural episode of Starkey Sound Bites, Dave talks to Dr. Sara Burdak, Starkey’s Chief Audiology Officer and Executive Vice President of Marketing, about her path to becoming an audiologist, the impact of hearing loss, hearing aid stigma, and all the ways our new Evolv AI hearing aids erase that stigma and make better hearing effortless.

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Starkey Sound Bites host Dr. Dave Fabry introduces himself and the podcast. Monthly episodes will follow. Thanks for listening!

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