This Week in Hearing

The place where subject matter experts across the "World of Hearing" come together to discuss all things hearing health, hearing aids, hearables, consumer audio, and everything in-between.

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Thursday · 24 min
366 - FDA Expands Pediatric Cochlear Implant Candidacy: What’s Changed?
Pediatric cochlear implant candidacy has expanded significantly in recent years, creating opportunities for earlier intervention and opening the door to implantation for children who may not have been considered candidates in the past.Dr. Bob Traynor is joined by Dr. Samantha Scharf, Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, to discuss recent changes to FDA indications for pediatric cochlear implants and what they mean for audiologists, cochlear implant teams, and families.Scharf explains how pediatric candidacy has evolved, including the reduction of the minimum implantation age to 7 months for certain children with bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss and the expansion of audiometric criteria to include children with more residual hearing. They discuss the research supporting earlier implantation and why providing consistent access to sound during critical periods of auditory and language development can have an important impact on long-term listening and spoken-language outcomes.The conversation also examines cochlear implantation for children with single-sided deafness, the evidence supporting implantation in younger children, and ongoing research evaluating whether candidacy for single-sided deafness could eventually extend below the current minimum age of 5 years.For clinicians, Scharf emphasizes the importance of beginning the referral process early rather than waiting until a child reaches the minimum implantation age. She also discusses the Pediatric CI 3-60 Guidelines, which recommends referral for a cochlear implant candidacy evaluation when a child meets any one of three measures in the ear being considered: an unaided four-frequency pure-tone average (4FPTA) of 60 dB HL or greater, an aided Speech Intelligibility Index (SII) of 0.60 or less, or a word recognition score (WRS) of 60% or less when available. These measures are intended to help identify children who warrant a comprehensive CI evaluation—not to determine candidacy on their own.Scharf also offers guidance for families navigating a new diagnosis of profound hearing loss and discusses why timely evaluation and intervention can be particularly important when listening and spoken language are among a family's goals. Read the referenced article, “New Cochlear Implant Candidacy Criteria for Children,” in The Hearing Journal Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
Tuesday · 24 min
365 - Beyond the Audiology Appointment: How HLAA Supports People with Hearing Loss
For people with hearing loss, many of the biggest challenges happen outside the clinic—from navigating difficult listening situations to managing the emotional and social impact of hearing loss.Shari Eberts is joined by Dan Reiner, Director of Communications and Marketing at the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), to explore how the organization can complement clinical hearing care and help support patients between appointments.They discuss HLAA’s network of 125 chapters and state associations, Hearing Life magazine, peer support groups, educational webinars, practical toolkits, workplace resources, Walk4Hearing events, and other free materials that hearing care professionals can share with patients and families. Dan also offers practical suggestions for audiologists interested in incorporating HLAA resources into their everyday patient care.The conversation highlights the role that community, education, peer support, and accessible resources can play in helping people live well with hearing loss—long after the clinical appointment ends. Resources Mentioned: Hearing Loss Toolkit: https://www.hearingloss.org/resources/hearing-loss-toolkit/ Hearing Life Magazine: https://www.hearingloss.org/media-and-publications/hearing-life-magazine/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
September 2 · 38 min
364 - Inside Fortell’s Push Into the Prescription Hearing Aid Market
Fortell is taking an unusual path for a hearing aid startup: entering the prescription hearing aid market with proprietary AI technology, its own clinics, and a care model built around audiologists.Shari Eberts speaks with Fortell co-founders Matt de Jonge and Cole Morris about the company’s approach to one of the most persistent challenges in hearing care—understanding speech in environments with multiple competing talkers.The conversation explores Fortell’s use of source separation and Spatial AI, including its Front Voices mode, which is designed to prioritize speakers in front of the wearer while reducing competing voices from other directions. De Jonge and Morris also discuss clinical studies evaluating speech intelligibility and listener preference in multi-talker noise, along with the limitations of the technology and why some of its more aggressive processing remains under manual control.The discussion also examines Fortell’s decision to enter the prescription market through company-operated clinics rather than the more typical manufacturer distribution model. The co-founders explain the role audiologists play in fitting and optimizing the technology, how the company approaches pricing and ongoing care, and the challenges of building and scaling a new hearing aid company in a market dominated by established manufacturers.Looking ahead, Fortell plans to expand its clinical footprint while continuing to develop its AI-based hearing technology. Since the conversation was recorded, the company has also introduced AI 2.0, a software update that Fortell says further improves speech-in-noise performance through expanded real-world training data and updated signal processing.Learn more about Fortell AI 2.0 update here: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearing-technologies/2026/fortell-ai-2-update-hearing-aids/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
August 31 · 48 min
363 - Phonak EON Hearing Aids Deep Dive: Smaller Sphere, Smarter AI and Auracast
Phonak’s new EON hearing aid platform brings a smaller Sphere design, a new HYPERSONIC AI chip, expanded Spheric Speech Clarity, improved wind noise management, and Auracast connectivity.Andrew Bellavia visits the Phonak EON hearing aid launch at Ravinia Festival near Chicago for an in-depth look at the technology with Christine Jones, Michael Preuss, and Stefan Launer. They explore how a more efficient deep neural network and new chip architecture allowed Phonak to significantly reduce the size of its Sphere hearing aid while extending access to AI-based speech processing throughout the day.The conversation examines Spheric Speech Clarity 3.0, AutoSense OS AI 8.0, APD 4.0, and WindBlock 2.0, including how EON adapts its compression strategy as listening conditions change and remains in its AI-powered speech-in-loud-noise mode more consistently in fluctuating environments. They also dig into the research and technical measurements behind the platform, including wind noise reduction, speech-to-noise performance, listening effort, and emerging approaches to measuring how hearing aid processing affects cognitive load.Connectivity is another major focus. EON adds Auracast alongside Phonak’s Bluetooth and Roger ecosystem, with Phonak reporting Auracast reception at distances up to 211 meters under test conditions. Bellavia also discusses the addition of NAL-NL3 in Phonak Target 12.0 and shares news that existing Infinio and Infinio Ultra users are expected to gain access to Auracast through a future firmware update.The discussion concludes with a look at where deep neural networks in hearing aids could go next. It also explores plans for a permanent Auracast installation at Ravinia designed to make its popular outdoor lawn concerts more accessible to people with hearing loss. Bellavia’s consulting firm, AuraFuturity, has been working with Phonak on the Ravinia Auracast project. Resources Mentioned: Study on WindBlock 2.0: https://www.phonak.com/content/dam/phonak/en/evidence-library/field-studies/PH_FieldStudyNews_WindBlock2.0_210x280_EN_028-2901-02_V1.00.pdf AutoSense OS™ AI 8.0 Technical Paper: https://www.phonak.com/content/dam/phonak/en/evidence-library/white-paper/technical-paper/PH_Insight_AutoSenseOS8.0_210x297_EN_028-2928-02_V1.00.pdf Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
August 27 · 19 min
362 - From Captions to Context: Rylo’s Vision for AI-Powered Communication
AI-powered captions are becoming increasingly common, but Rylo CEO and co-founder Tomer Aharoni believes accessible communication needs to go much further than simply converting speech into text.Shari Eberts speaks with Aharoni about the evolution of Nagish into Rylo and the company’s expansion from FCC-certified captioned phone calls into a broader AI communication platform for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Aharoni shares how the company began with a simple experiment while he was a computer science student at Columbia and why Rylo now views accessibility as the starting point rather than the end goal.The conversation explores how AI could provide communication context that traditional captions may miss, including emotion, tone, accents and environmental sounds. Aharoni also discusses emerging tools such as sentiment analysis, potential fraud detection features, and Rylo Sign, an effort to use AI to translate between signed and spoken language when an interpreter may not be available.Looking ahead, Aharoni explains why he expects basic captioning to become increasingly ubiquitous and how AI could help reduce the additional planning and communication barriers that people who are Deaf and hard of hearing often encounter in everyday life. For more information on Rylo, visit: https://rylo.com/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
August 24 · 33 min
361 - Inside Signia MaX Hearing Aids: Four DNNs and a New Approach to Sound Processing
What changes when a hearing aid uses four specialized deep neural networks at the same time? Andrew Bellavia travels to Munich for an early look at Signia MaX, the company’s new hearing aid platform built around what Signia calls Acoustic Intelligence. Andrew sits down with Barinder Samra, MSc, Global Senior Commercial Audiology Manager at Signia, to explore how the new architecture differs from Signia IX and why the company is moving beyond using AI for individual processing features.At the center of MaX are four task-specific DNNs dedicated to speech, the wearer’s own voice, environmental scene analysis, and noise. Rather than operating as isolated features, the networks share information to create a broader picture of the listening environment and coordinate how the hearing aids respond in real time. The discussion looks closely at RealTime Conversation Enhancement AI, which builds on the multi-speaker conversation technology introduced with Signia IX. MaX replaces the previous machine-learning approach to speech detection with a dedicated DNN trained to analyze, detect, and isolate speech, while Own Voice Processing AI eliminates the need for the in-clinic own-voice training procedure used with earlier Signia devices. Topics discussed include: How Signia MaX and Acoustic Intelligence use four specialized DNNs RealTime Conversation Enhancement AI and group conversations in noise How MaX differs from the previous Signia IX platform Own Voice Processing AI and the removal of in-clinic voice calibration Ambient Scene Adaptation AI and Dynamic Noise Control AI How the hearing aids distinguish between listening to the environment and actively participating in conversation The new MaX chip and increased processing power OneConnect Technology and support for Bluetooth Classic, LE Audio, telecoil, and Auracast Battery life and charging Signia Assistant and user-driven hearing aid adjustments Where Signia sees the MaX platform going next Andrew also shares his impressions after wearing the MaX hearing aids around Munich and directly comparing them with his own Signia IX devices. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
August 18 · 32 min
360 - Inside ReSound Sensia: Automatic AI and Smarter Hearing in Noise
GN’s new ReSound Sensia hearing aids build on the AI and Deep Neural Network (DNN) technology introduced with ReSound Vivia, with a major change: advanced speech-in-noise processing can now engage automatically. At the center of the new platform is AcoustIQ™, which analyzes the listening environment and determines when to activate directional processing, DNN-based noise reduction, and other features to support speech understanding without requiring the wearer to manually switch programs.Andrew Bellavia visits GN headquarters in Denmark to speak with Laurel Christensen, Chief Audiology Officer, and Brian Dam Pedersen, Chief Technology Officer, about the technology behind Sensia and how GN is combining traditional signal processing with newer AI approaches. They explore how Sensia moves between spatial listening, asymmetric directionality, multi-band beamforming, and DNN processing depending on the acoustic environment and location of speech. The discussion also examines why GN intentionally does not classify music automatically and how preserving spatial cues can help create a more natural listening experience even when directional processing is active.The conversation also looks at where hearing aid AI may be headed next, including the potential for increasingly powerful DNNs to drive further improvements in speech-in-noise performance. Other topics include Sensia’s 24-hour battery life, Auracast™ and telecoil connectivity options, and new ReSound Sensia Bimodal and Enzo IA Bimodal models designed to work more seamlessly with Cochlear® Nucleus® sound processors. Launch announcement: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearing-technologies/2026/resound-sensia-hearing-aids-dnn-ai Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
August 11 · 23 min
359 - When Accessibility Goes Mainstream: Captions, AI and What Comes Next
Accessible communication technology is advancing rapidly, but building tools that people can truly depend on requires more than simply adding artificial intelligence.Brian Taylor speaks with InnoCaption CEO Paul Lee about the evolution of captioned communication, the company’s milestone of supporting more than 30 million captioned calls, and the importance of keeping users at the center of accessibility technology. Lee also shares the personal story behind his move from finance to InnoCaption and his recent transition into the CEO role as his father, who founded the company, steps back from day-to-day operations.The conversation examines InnoCaption’s approach to responsible AI, including why users can choose between automated captions and live stenographers and how human support teams continue to train and refine the company’s AI tools. Lee discusses the challenge of designing AI-assisted text-to-speech technology that can make communication faster without taking control away from the person using it.They also explore lessons from InnoCaption’s acquisition of CaptionMate, the growing role of accessible video calling, and why visual cues such as facial expressions and lipreading remain important alongside captions.Looking ahead, Lee discusses the broader shift toward captions as a mainstream communication tool and the potential for technologies such as Auracast to expand access to audio in public spaces. Together, these developments point toward a future in which accessibility features are increasingly integrated into everyday communication rather than treated as specialized add-ons. Learn more about InnoCaption:https://www.innocaption.com/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
August 3 · 34 min
358 - Beyond Hearing Aids: Why Assistive Listening Matters
Hearing aids are only part of the solution. While today's hearing technology can be life-changing, even the best hearing aids can struggle in challenging listening environments like theaters, airports, courtrooms, places of worship, and other public spaces.Shari Eberts sits down with Dr. Juliette Sterkens and Wynne Whyman of the Center for Hearing Access to discuss why assistive listening technologies—including hearing loops, telecoils, FM systems, infrared systems, and Auracast™—are critical for improving communication access beyond the hearing aid.Together, they explore practical strategies for consumers, hearing care professionals, and public venues to expand accessibility, improve patient outcomes, and help ensure people with hearing loss can fully participate in everyday life.Topics include: Why hearing aids alone aren't enough in many listening environments Hearing loops, telecoils, FM systems, infrared, and Auracast explained The Center for Hearing Access and its mission Resources for consumers, clinicians, and public venues ADA rights and practical advocacy tips Why audiologists should discuss assistive listening during hearing aid fittings Auracast's role in the future of hearing accessibility Why captioning and assistive listening work best together Action steps for both hearing care professionals and consumers Learn more about the Center for Hearing Access:https://centerforhearingaccess.orgBe sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
July 7 · 30 min
357 - How Hearing Conservation Services Benefit Patients—and Your Practice
Occupational hearing conservation is often viewed as a compliance requirement—but it also represents a significant opportunity for audiologists and hearing care professionals to expand patient care, strengthen community outreach, and grow their practices.In this episode, Brian Felsen, Chief Hearing Loss Preventionist at Your Ears Rock, discusses the growing impact of noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus across workplaces, schools, entertainment venues, and recreational activities. He shares practical strategies for integrating hearing conservation into clinical practice while creating new opportunities to expand patient care and grow hearing healthcare businesses.Topics discussed include: The growing prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus Why hearing conservation should be part of every patient interaction Business opportunities in occupational audiology and hearing protection Custom hearing protection and branded hearing conservation programs Community outreach strategies for audiologists and hearing instrument specialists Lunch-and-learn programs for local employers and organizations Educating patients about hearing protection beyond the workplace The importance of proper hearing protection selection and fit Innovative hearing conservation initiatives, including the "Quietest Vehicle on Earth" Whether you work in private practice, occupational audiology, or hearing healthcare management, this discussion offers practical ideas for expanding services while helping patients protect the hearing they have for life. Learn more about Your Ears Rock: https://yourearsrock.com Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
June 23 · 32 min
356 - Supporting Veterans with Better Hearing Care and Better Technology
This week, host Bob Traynor is joined by Sheena Burks, Chief Clinical Officer at WSA, and Dr. Eric Branda, Head of Audiology and Research, for an in-depth discussion on the unique hearing healthcare needs of U.S. veterans and how new technology is helping address one of audiology's greatest challenges: understanding speech in noisy environments.The conversation explores the realities facing VA audiologists, including high patient volumes, administrative demands, and the need to deliver efficient, high-quality care. The guests discuss Signia's Integrated Experience (IX) platform, multi-beam directional processing, instant-fit hearing solutions, AI-enabled personalization, and how these innovations are designed to improve communication for veterans while streamlining clinical workflows. They also examine the future of government hearing healthcare, the role of student education, and the importance of making advanced technology accessible across the VA and other federal healthcare systems.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
June 16 · 59 min
355 - Advancing Inner Ear Therapeutics: Research, Innovation, and the Future of Hearing Loss Treatment
What does the future of hearing restoration look like? Are we approaching a world where hearing loss can be treated with pharmaceuticals rather than simply managed with hearing aids?Originally presented at the Future of Hearing Healthcare (FHH2026) conference, this expert panel explores the latest advances in inner ear therapeutics and what they could mean for the future of hearing healthcare.Topics discussed include: The recent momentum in inner ear therapeutics and gene therapy Preventing chemotherapy-induced hearing loss New treatments for Ménière's disease, tinnitus, and age-related hearing loss Why better diagnostics and AI may transform hearing healthcare The challenges of drug delivery to the inner ear The role of small molecules versus gene and cell therapies How therapeutics may change the future role of audiologists and hearing care professionals What the panelists are most optimistic about over the next decade Panelists: Dr. Brian Taylor (Moderator) Jonas Dürfjeld Johnsen – Acousia Therapeutics Hugo Peris – Spiral Therapeutics Jonathan Kil – Sound Pharmaceuticals Celia Belline – Cilcare From breakthrough science to real-world clinical implications, this discussion provides a fascinating look at one of the fastest-evolving areas in hearing healthcare and what it could mean for millions of people living with hearing loss. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. https://x.com/WeekinHearing https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
June 10 · 26 min
354 - New Study Evaluates Nuance Audio Glasses: Can They Improve Speech in Noise?
New research is providing one of the first detailed looks at the clinical performance of Nuance Audio Glasses, an over-the-counter hearing solution that has generated significant interest since its launch. In this episode, host Shari Eberts sits down with Dr. Tami Harel, Chief of Audiology at Nuance Audio, to discuss the newly published findings, what they reveal about speech understanding in noise and listening effort, and where this technology may fit within the evolving hearing care landscape. The conversation explores a recently published study from Western University's National Centre for Audiology, which found that the device significantly improved speech recognition in noise while reducing listening effort compared with the unaided condition. Dr. Harrell explains how the glasses use multiple microphones, open-ear speakers, and beamforming technology to address one of the biggest challenges for people with hearing loss: understanding speech in noisy environments.Beyond the clinical findings, the discussion examines why many adults wait nearly nine years before seeking hearing treatment, the stigma surrounding mild hearing loss, the relationship between hearing, vision, and healthy aging, and how new form factors may encourage earlier adoption of hearing technology. Dr. Harrell also shares insights into the future of Nuance Audio and the next generation of its hearing glasses.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
June 8 · 1 hr 13 min
353 - Rethinking the Audiologic Evaluation: Is the Traditional Test Battery Outdated? Live from FHH 2026
Are today’s routine audiologic evaluations keeping pace with the rapidly evolving landscape of hearing healthcare?In this panel discussion from the 2026 Future of Hearing Healthcare Conference, moderator Dr. Bob Traynor is joined by Dr. Jay Hall, Dr. Frank Musiek, and Dr. De Wet Swanepoel to examine whether the traditional audiologic test battery is still sufficient for today's patients—or if it's time to rethink how hearing is assessed.The conversation explores the growing role of speech-in-noise testing, otoacoustic emissions (OAEs), central auditory screening, teleaudiology, and AI-driven diagnostic workflows, while discussing how these innovations could make hearing care more patient-centered, scalable, and globally accessible. The panel also challenges long-held clinical assumptions and considers how diagnostic evaluations may extend beyond the traditional sound booth to better reflect real-world listening needs.Whether you're an audiologist, hearing healthcare professional, student, or industry leader, this discussion offers valuable insights into the future of diagnostic hearing care.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
June 3 · 17 min
352 - How the Cearvol Wave Is Bringing Premium Features to the OTC Hearing Aid Market
Can an OTC hearing aid really deliver premium features at an affordable price?This week, host Bob Traynor sits down with Dr. Heather Andrews, Director of Audiology at Cearvol, to explore the new Cearvol Wave OTC hearing aid. The conversation highlights the innovations that helped the device earn 17 awards following its debut at CES 2026, as well as Cearvol’s approach to blending consumer electronics design with hearing technology to make hearing care more accessible and approachable.The conversation covers the Wave’s AI-powered sound processing, touchscreen charging case, direct TV and audio streaming capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, and audiologist-supported OTC model. Heather also shares her journey as an audiologist in the VA healthcare system to the OTC hearing aid market and explains why she believes audiologists play an important role in improving access to hearing technology.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
June 1 · 27 min
351 - AAA 2026: The Innovations Shaping the Future of Hearing Care
From artificial intelligence and OTC hearing aids to emerging technologies and clinical innovation, the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) 2026 Annual Convention, held April 22–24, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, offered a firsthand look at where hearing healthcare may be headed next.Recorded live from the convention floor, Andrew Bellavia discusses the biggest conversations, trends, and observations from this year's conference. Drawing on conversations and observations from the event, Andrew highlights some of the technologies, innovations, and industry trends that generated interest among exhibitors and attendees alike.The conversation explores advances in hearing technology, changing approaches to care delivery, the continued evolution of OTC hearing devices, artificial intelligence, and other topics shaping the profession. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
May 28 · 33 min
350 - Healthcare with Hearing Loss: Improving Communication Access in Medical Care, Live from FHH 2026
For people living with hearing loss, navigating healthcare settings can be one of the most stressful communication challenges they face. In this panel discussion from the 6th Annual Future of Hearing Healthcare Conference, moderators Shari Eberts and Gael Hannan are joined by advocates Tony Iacolucci and Peggy Ellertsen to explore the urgent need for better communication access throughout the healthcare system.Together, they discuss the real-world barriers patients with hearing loss encounter during medical appointments, surgeries, emergency care, and telehealth visits — from limited awareness among providers to inconsistent accommodations and inaccessible communication practices. The conversation highlights the growing effort to improve healthcare accessibility through advocacy, education, technology, and systemic change.The panel also introduces the work behind Healthcare with Hearing Loss, an initiative focused on empowering patients, educating providers, and advancing practical solutions such as Communication Access Plans (CAPs), speech-to-text technology, and improved healthcare policies. Throughout the discussion, the speakers emphasize that effective communication in healthcare is not just about convenience — it is essential for patient safety, dignity, and quality of care.To learn more and access additional resources mentioned during the discussion, visit: https://www.healthcarewithhearingloss.com/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
May 20 · 28 min
349 - Widex Allure AI RIC Hearing Aids: Dual-Chip Processing, PureSound, and LE Audio Connectivity
What happens when Widex adds a dedicated AI chip to its signature natural sound platform? Andrew Bellavia travels to WSA headquarters in Copenhagen for an early hands-on look at the new Widex Allure AI RIC and Compass Cloud 2.0. Andrew sits down with Sonnie Harris and Karen Hougs from WSA for an in-depth discussion on the technology behind the new Widex Allure AI RIC, Compass Cloud 2.0, and the future direction of the Widex platform. Along the way, he shares his impressions after testing the devices in restaurants, hotel bars, live music venues, and other real-world listening environments. Topics discussed include: How the new Allure AI RIC builds upon the existing Widex Allure platform Widex’s approach to AI and why the company resisted “artificial” sounding processing The new Clarity Boost mode and real-world speech-in-noise performance• PureSound processing and low-delay audio design Music listening impressions from jazz, rock, and classical concerts Auracast readiness, LE Audio, and connectivity updates Battery life and dual-chip architecture Compass Cloud 2.0 and how clinician feedback shaped the new workflow updates The future of cloud-based fitting systems and personalized hearing care Andrew also compares the Allure AI RIC with other premium hearing aids during real-world listening experiences, with a particular focus on live music performance and listening comfort. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
May 15 · 29 min
348 - How I Hear: Shanna Groves on Life with Hearing Loss
Author and advocate Shanna Groves shares the emotional reality of living, parenting, and communicating with progressive hearing loss. In this conversation with Shari Eberts, the creator of Lip Reading Mom discusses her experience growing up with an undiagnosed hearing loss, navigating motherhood and professional life with hearing challenges, and ultimately receiving a cochlear implant in 2025.Shanna reflects on the emotional process of accepting hearing loss, the communication fatigue that often comes with relying on lip reading, and the importance of finding confidence, community, and self-advocacy along the way. She also explains how advancements in technology — from hearing aids to cochlear implants and video communication platforms — have helped reshape both her personal and professional life.The discussion also explores Shanna’s work teaching lip reading classes, her Deafinitely Talking Podcast, and the inspiration behind her new book How I Hear: Confessions of a Lip-Reading Mom. Throughout the conversation, she shares honest insights about grief, resilience, parenting, identity, and why authentic hearing loss stories matter for people at every stage of their journey.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
May 7 · 23 min
347 - AI Meets Accessibility: Improving Communication Beyond Traditional Captions
What if phone calls and video chats could finally adapt to the way people with hearing loss actually communicate?In this conversation, Gael Hannan speaks with Paul Lee, COO of InnoCaption, about the company’s latest accessibility innovations designed to improve communication for people with hearing loss. From AI-powered text-to-speech tools and predictive communication features to the launch of the new InnoCaption Video app with live captions for video calls, the discussion explores how advances in AI and accessibility technology are reshaping everyday communication experiences.Paul explains how InnoCaption’s FCC-funded captioned calling service works, including its combination of automated speech recognition and live stenographers, and discusses the company’s newly introduced AI Refine feature that helps users quickly generate natural-sounding responses during phone calls. The conversation also explores how these tools may benefit cochlear implant users, Deaf ASL users, and anyone navigating communication barriers in daily life.The discussion also highlights the emotional and social impact of communication accessibility, including how captioned video calls can help improve understanding between people with hearing loss and their friends, family members, and colleagues.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X. - https://x.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/ - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing Visit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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