EmpowEar Audiology

Let's continue the conversation- send me a text!Welcome to a milestone moment for the EmpowEAR Audiology Podcast! I'm Dr. Carrie Spangler—deaf/hard of hearing audiologist and certified professional coach—and today marks the beginning of a brand-new chapter.After 4.5 amazing years of partnership with 3C Digital Media Network, I'm stepping into the world of independent podcasting. I reflect on the journey so far, thank the voices who've helped shape this community, and share what's next for the show.From lived experiences to new professional insights, more guests, more depth, and more heart—this next season is for you.For more information about Dr. Carrie Spangler- check out her Linktree at https://linktr.ee/carrie.spangler. For transcripts of this episode- visit the podcast website at: https://empowearaudiology.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of the EmpowEAR Audiology Podcast, meet author Tiffany Yu as we discuss her newly published book, The Anti-Ableist Manifesto. Tiffany is an award-winning social impact entrepreneur, disability advocate, and content creator. She is the founder and CEO of Diversability, a social enterprise dedicated to elevating disability pride and building disability power. Tiffany's impressive career spans roles at Goldman Sachs, Bloomberg, and Revolt, and she is now an in-demand corporate speaker, helping bridge corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts with actionable insights for disability inclusion. Her TED Talk, How to Help Employees with Disabilities Thrive, has garnered over one million views, and her work has been featured in prominent publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and USA Today. In this conversation, Tiffany challenges the notion that disability is a bad word. We explore how The Anti-Ableist Manifesto provides a framework for transformative conversations, deconstructs the language of ableism, and empowers allies with actionable steps. Tiffany introduces the powerful “me, we, us” approach to driving meaningful change and confronting ableism head-on. As you listen, take time to reflect on your own experiences and biases, share this episode to spark further dialogue, and commit to actionable steps for inclusivity. Be sure to order Tiffany's book on Amazon to read, reflect, and take action. To Learn More about Tiffany Yu:   https://www.tiffanyyu.com/ https://www.instagram.com/imtiffanyyu https://www.facebook.com/imtiffanyyu https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyayu/ https://mydiversability.com/ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast    

In this insightful episode of empowEAR Audiology,  I am joined by two experts in vestibular and balance care. Dr. Julie Honaker and Dr. Violette Lavender shed light on the complexities of vestibular disorders in children and adults. Representing care across the lifespan, they discuss the impact of these conditions on daily life, advancements in diagnosis and treatment, and the vital role audiologists play in managing balance and hearing health.   Dr. Honaker is the Director of the Vestibular and Balance Disorders Program within the Head and Neck Institute at Cleveland Clinic Foundation. She specializes in assessing and managing dizziness, imbalance, and fall risks while advancing clinical research focused on fall prevention across the lifespan. Dr. Violette Lavender is at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, a pediatric audiologist specializing in hearing and balance disorders. She is passionate about making vestibular testing accessible to young children and advancing research in pediatric balance assessment.  Whether you're an audiologist, a healthcare professional, or someone curious about vestibular health, this episode provides valuable takeaways for understanding and addressing these often-overlooked conditions. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of vestibular health and how it impacts people of all ages. Subscribe, rate, and review to stay updated on future episodes!

In this episode of the empowEAR Audiology Podcast, we explore the importance of Educational Audiology Awareness Week with guests Dr. Kristin Jolkowski and Dr. Tori Ashton of the Educational Audiology Association, who highlights the essential role of school hearing screenings. They discuss how early identification of hearing loss impacts students' academic success and the importance of collaboration between educational audiologists, nurses, school staff, and families. The episode also provides valuable resources and advocacy tips to raise awareness and improve hearing support in schools.  #EdAudWeek  #EdAudAdvocacy For more information:  https://edaud.org/edaudawarenessweek/ ___________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast

Dr. Matthew Barker is the Founder and Director of Acoustic Pioneer. With a Doctorate from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Dr. Barker has dedicated his career to advancing the field of audiology, particularly in the area of auditory processing. Part 2 of this podcast series focuses in on what to do once a child has been identified with an auditory processing deficit and how targeted direct interventions can improve this skill; thus improving reading and learning.  His work is driven by a passion for helping children and adults overcome auditory processing challenges, ensuring they have the skills needed to succeed in learning and communication.  For more information please reach out to Matthew Barker, Au.D. at: https://acousticpioneer.com/en info@acousticpioneer.com If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with others who might benefit from learning more about auditory processing and the groundbreaking work of Dr. Barker. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful conversations with experts in the field. _________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast    

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Matthew Barker, Founder and Director of Acoustic Pioneer, and a renowned Audiologist with a specialization in auditory processing. Dr. Barker completed his Doctorate at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2004, where he focused on testing auditory processing and its crucial role in language development and reading skills. He shares his insights on the significant impact of underdeveloped auditory processing skills, which affect over 10% of elementary/primary school children, causing them to struggle with learning. In Part 1 of this 2 part series, Dr. Barker takes a deep dive into the importance of auditory processing and the impact it has when someone experiences a deficit.  He also shares more about the areas of auditory processing that will impact students who are struggling to read and learn in school.  For more information please reach out to Matthew Barker, Au.D. at: https://acousticpioneer.com/en info@acousticpioneer.com If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with others who might benefit from learning more about auditory processing and the groundbreaking work of Dr. Barker. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful conversations with experts in the field. __________________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me for a repeat guest, Dr. Don Goldberg, CCC-SLP/A, FAAA, LSLS Cert. AVT, as we dive into the newly released Test of Auditory Functioning which is a criterion-based test for toddlers through school-age children who are deaf or hard of hearing available from Bluetree Publishing.  This episode will explore the who, what, why, and where behind this important testing protocol for professionals who work with individuals who are deaf/hard of hearing.  Be sure to visit the links to find out more about Dr. Don on episode 33 as well as where to order your own copy of the Test of Auditory Functioning.   Where to Order:  https://www.bluetreepublishing.com/print/758-taf-test-of-auditory-functioning-book.html Upcoming Webinar:  https://www.hearingfirst.org/learning/l/2426/overview Recorded Webinar:  https://edaud.org/on-demand-webinar-taf/ _____________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me for an interview with the Deaf Queen Boss, Kellina Powell! Kellina is an entrepreneur, coach and author of the book “Everyday I am Just Deaf”. Kellina loves to help people with their personal growth and educate others about the deaf community. At the age of 4 she lost her hearing in both ears. She did not let anything stop her from what she wanted to accomplish.  She received her psychology degree from York University and her post graduate certificate in mental health and addiction.   You can find Kellina Powell at:  https://www.kellinaempowerment.com/ https://www.instagram.com/deafqueenboss https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellina-powell-b66b5b1b4/ _________________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast    

Today, we're joined by Gil Kaminski, co-founder of Humelan, a Public Benefit Corporation dedicated to guiding individuals through hearing health and wellness.  Humelan offers a person-centered approach, community support, and an AI companion app for hearing health. Inspired to address the challenges faced by those with hearing loss, Humelan's vision is to empower human potential through communication equity.  On the podcast, Gil shares the backstory of how Humelan got started as well as the powerful mission, vision, and goals.   Visit humelan.com, join online communities, follow on social media, visit the knowledge hub, and attend virtual events to get connected. Thank you for tuning in, and stay engaged with Humelan's mission to empower communication equity!  Visit Humelan at https://www.humelan.com/ Connect with Gil Kaminski:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilkaminski/ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Extraordinary Dr. Jasmine Simmons is inspiring all of empowEAR's listeners on today's podcast.  Dr. Jasmine is a deafblind audiologist and author who just published the first book in her Usher Syndrome Series called Extraordinary Jordyn and her Bionic Ears.  On this podcast you will hear how Dr. Jasmine's personal and professional experiences captivate this encouraging story about Jordyn who overcomes judgment for her cochlear implant and hearing aid.  The diverse case of characters, takes readers on an incredible journey of understanding and empathy.  This interview will leave listeners ready to buy this book and share this uplifting story with children to embrace the things which make them unique.   To find more about Dr. Jasmine Simmons reach out through her website or social media!   www.drjasminesimmons.com https://linktr.ee/drjasminesimmons www.instagram.com/drjasminesimmons/ _______________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me with Dr. Andrea Warner-Czyz for a conversation about the role of social skills and emotional regulation as it relates to children and adolescents who are deaf and hard of hearing.  Dr. Warner-Czyz is an Associate Professor in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at The University of Texas at Dallas.  In this engaging episode, Andrea shares about her research, peer victimization, and strategies that can be implemented to foster building self-esteem and advocacy through intentional practices and connectivity.  ______________________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Have you ever wanted to take your career to a new level?  Do you feel stuck in your personal and professional life?  Take a listen to the latest episode of empowEAR Audiology with guest Dr. Kari Morgenstein.  Kari is the co-founder of dB Coaching group which focuses on championing and supporting healthcare professionals so they can thrive in their personal and professional lives. Dr. Morgenstein has utilized her life experiences including audiology to implement her passion for supporting women in medicine and challenging the status quo.  Dr. Morgenstein is an experienced, genuine, and goal-oriented certified coach and speaker.  Take a listen to how hiring a certified coach can challenge you as a client in a thought-providing, creative process to maximize your personal and professional potential.   For more information about Dr. Kari Morgenstein and her Coaching group visit:   https://dbcoachinggroup.com/ The airing of this episode also marks the beginning of 2024. This episode however was recorded a little while back with Dr. Kari Morgenstein. This episode actually motivated me to sign up for an energy leadership assessment and personal coaching session with Kari. Wow, what an insightful investment to dive deeper into ensuring that I am at the cause, rather than the effect of my life. These sessions with Dr. Morgenstein propelled me into exploring becoming a certified coach. As you listen to this episode; take inventory of YOU.  A certified coach can help you redefine your career goal or personal goal, overcome obstacles, help you clarify and make difficult decisions, increase leadership and energy, and become confident as well as develop deep self-knowledge and awareness. Tune in today with Dr. Kari Morgenstein and stay tuned for future empowEAR audiology episodes as I will be sharing my coaching journey! ___________________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

The 3 A's of Health Literacy - Accurate, Accessible, and Actionable.  Today's episode with Sydney Bassard (The ListeningSLP) takes a deeper dive into the importance of health literacy from a family and professional perspective. Sydney is an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist.  She received her B.S. in Public Health and her Masters in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of South Carolina.  Her clinical focus is working with individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing and those with literacy challenges. Sydney's motto of listening, learning, and advocating stems from the principles guiding her clinical practice. To connect with Sydney be sure to visit all social media platforms: @thelisteningslp https://www.thelisteningslp.com/ hello@thelisteningslp.com You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me as I talk with Valli Gideons who is an author, speaker, and mother of two teens who were born with hearing loss.  Valli is a repeat guest (go back to episode 29 and hear more of her story).  In this episode, we chat about her book “Through the Fog: Navigating Life's Challenges While Raising Kids with Hearing Loss.  Valli shares the parts of her book navigating through the fog as a mom and how even when the future seems unsure, there is a way to find hope and encouragement.  Valli's work has reached millions of people across multiple platforms.  She is passionate about her role as a parent and as an advocate for children who are deaf and hard of hearing.  This is a must-have for parents and professionals.   Link to Episode 29:  https://www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast Contact Valli:  https://mybattlecall.com/ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Google Podcasts Click here for a transcript of the episode Get excited about the first annual Educational Audiology Awareness Week!  empowEAR Audiology and EAA have teamed up to kick off the week with an overview podcast!!  On today's episode Dr. Tori Ashton and Dr. Kathi Riley, leadership from the Educational Audiology Association,  share exciting activities and advocacy.  This event will take place annually in the 3rd week of October.   Educational Audiology Awareness Week aims to foster public awareness and knowledge of educational audiology services, including the benefits these essential services provide to children, their caregivers, and other professionals.  The mission is to educate our stakeholders by enhancing interprofessional perceptions of educational audiology and strengthening community knowledge through promotion, outreach, and advocacy. #EdAudWeek #EdAudAdvocacy  For more information and great resources visit:  https://edaud.org/edaudawarenessweek/ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Did you know that one of the most significant predictors of receptive and expressive language for children who use cochlear implants was the age at which they achieved full-time use of their devices?  Achieving full-time use can be a challenge.  Join Dr. Erika Gagnon, Au.D., and Erin Thompson, M.S., CCC-SLP, LSLS Cert AVT as we take a deeper dive into the research, factors that impact full-time use and how to use the counseling concept of Hearing Hours Percentage (HHP) to support families and children who are on this cochlear implant journey.  In addition, we take a deeper dive and a role-play demonstration into the benefits of co-treating (audiologists and speech-language pathologists) and strength-based coaching to improve family outcomes.   Erin has been working with the Children's Cochlear Implant Center at UNC since July 2004. Erin conducts Listening and Spoken Language parent participation sessions, speech and language diagnostics for children who are deaf and hard of hearing. Her passion has been mentoring students and professionals across NC, the US, and abroad. In 2019 her role expanded to include Family Care Coordinator. She helps manage, facilitate, and coordinate cochlear implant consultation referrals, supporting all families going through the CI consult process at UNC. Erika earned her bachelor's and Doctorate in Audiology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is a pediatric cochlear implant audiologist at UNC's Children's Cochlear Implant Center. In addition, she is the Audiology Clinic Manager and the Program Director of the CCCDP Grant. Erika's research interests include pediatric cochlear implant device use and pediatric EAS. Erika enjoys teaching and mentoring students, she co-teaches the Cochlear Implant course to UNC's Audiology graduate students. For More Information:  https://www.med.unc.edu/earandhearing/ Erin.Thompson@unchealth.unc.edu erika.gagnon@unchealth.unc.edu You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast

Take a listen to the latest empowEAR Audiology episode with Dr. Jace Wolfe, Ph.D. who is the Senior Vice President of Innovation at the Oberkotter Foundation and Hearing First.  This conversation will highlight the exciting audiology-focused pediatric learning opportunities that are planned for the Hearing First community starting in August 2023 through December 2024.  Topics for learning include a stellar lineup of experts on topics such as Genetics and Hearing Loss, Autism and Hearing Loss, Best of Pediatric Audiology Literature, Imaging of the Auditory System, Optimizing Outcomes of Children with Hearing Loss and Exceptional Needs, Balance and Management with Children Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder, and Single Sided Deafness. Take a listen to learn how you can take a deep dive into these topics while earning free continuing education credits.   Dr. Wolfe is also an adjunct at Salus University. Other accomplishments include past editor for the American Speech Language Hearing Association's Division 9 journal, and current co-editor for the Plural Publishing, Inc. Core Clinical Concept Series on Cochlear Implants.  Additional publications include “Cochlear Implants: Audiologic Management and Considerations for Implantable Hearing Devices, “Pediatric Audiology: Diagnosis, Technology, and Management, Third Edition” and “Pediatric Audiology Casebook, Second Edition and “Programming Cochlear Implants, Third Edition.” His areas of interest are pediatric amplification and cochlear implantation, personal remote microphone technology, and signal processing for children.   For more information visit:  www.hearingfirst.org You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast

Join me for a conversation with Dr. Sarah Sydlowski as we dig deeper into why cochlear implants are NOT the last resort for patients with the expanding criteria. In this conversation, we discuss the current referral guideline and walk through a case study to help dispel some of the common misconceptions about referrals.  Dr. Sarah Sydlowski, AuD, PhD, MBA, ABA Certified, CISC, is the Audiology Director of the Hearing Implant Program, Audiology Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships Director, and Associate Chief Improvement Officer at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.  Her clinical and research interests include implantable hearing devices, optimization of practice efficiency, and developing innovative clinical delivery models.  Dr. Sydlowski is the past president of the American Academy of Audiology and the Ohio Academy of Audiology.  She has also served on many other boards and taskforce for AAA and the American Cochlear Implant Alliance.  She is currently the co-chair of the newly formed Hearing Health Collaborative charged with developing a blueprint for changing the landscape of hearing healthcare.   To reach out to Dr. Sydlowski you can email at sydlows@ccf.org For more information about the Hearing Health Collaborative:  https://adulthearing.com/hearing-health-collaborative/ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast

Have you ever met or worked with someone who experiences Misophonia or Annoyance Hyperacusis?  Join me for a conversation with Dr. Lindsey Tubaugh who has been practicing audiology for 20 years.  She is the co-founder of Little Heroes Pediatric Hearing Clinic in Utah.  Dr. Tubaugh specializes in tinnitus and sound sensitivity disorders.  Her passion is helping patients understand that sound sensitivity, while sometimes debilitating, can be managed. In this podcast, we discuss misophonia, triggers, sound therapies, coping strategies, and  interprofessional collaboration.   For more information visit:  https://www.littleheroeshearingclinic.com/ or https://soundimmunity.podia.com/ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Thibault Duchemin grew up in Paris, France as the only hearing person in a deaf family. Sign language was his first language, and he experienced from a very early age the multiple challenges that deaf and hard-of-hearing people face in understanding and communicating with the rest of society. Helping his family navigate between the hearing and the deaf worlds led Thibault to found Ava, a mobile-based artificial intelligence that empowers people with hearing disabilities by allowing them converse in real-time with family, friends and coworkers. Thibault holds a double Master of Engineering from UC Berkeley and Ecole des Ponts ParisTech. In 2017, he was named a Forbes 30 Under 30 in Consumer Technology and is a member of the Hearing Loss Association of America Board of Trustees. https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidriemer/2022/05/11/how-captioning-app-ava-used-storytelling-to-raise-163-million/?sh=7016ebd54d50 You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me for an interview with Donna Sorkin, the executive director  of the American Cochlear Implant Alliance, a national organization devoted to expanding access to cochlear implantation for all who may benefit. She has had a long career in advocacy for people with hearing loss at for-profit and non-profit entities.  She has had a cochlear implant for over 30 years and brings her personal experience and enthusiasm to her work in the field. She was previously executive director of two organizations: the Hearing Loss Association of America (an organization for adults) and the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (with a focus on children). Ms. Sorkin served for 11 years as Vice President, Consumer Affairs at Cochlear Americas. She led public policy initiatives and other activities aimed at the broad life needs of cochlear implant users, including insurance coverage and habilitation for children and adults, and educational needs of children with cochlear implants. She has served on federal, corporate and university boards including the U.S. Access Board (as a Presidential appointee) and the National Institute on Deafness (National Institutes of Health) Advisory Board. She holds a Master in Public Policy from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.   For More Information:  https://www.acialliance.org/  

Have you ever been fatigued from listening?  Join me for a conversation with Dr. Hilary Davis as she explains her research on listening-related fatigue and a tool, the Vanderbilt Fatigue Scales, that can be utilized clinically and educationally.  Dr. Hilary Davis is a pediatric audiologist at the Vanderbilt Bill Wilkerson Center. She is the current past president of the Educational Audiology Association.  She received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas at Austin and her Doctorate of Audiology from Vanderbilt University. She currently sees patients clinically for hearing aid fittings and hearing evaluations, serves as an educational consultant for local school districts, and aids in recruitment and data management for the Pediatric Auditory Research lab. She is interested in assisting educators with teaching students with hearing loss and the use of remote microphone system technologies in the classroom setting.  You can reach Dr. Davis at hilary.davis@vumc.org Download the Vanderbilt Fatigue Scales at https://www.vumc.org/vfs/vanderbilt-fatigue-scales You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me on this empowEARing podcast with Chezi Pollack! Chezi is a teenager with bilateral cochlear implants who has advice for all of us…don't give up!  Life has its challenges, you can climb over those challenges, and greatness will come your way. Chezi was born in the United States and spent his first 11 years here before moving to Isreal. Join me for this empowEARing episode as Chezi shares about the obstacles he has overcome, his cochlear implant journey, a move to his new country of Isreal at the age of 11 years, and now his mission to share his everyday hearing journey of living with hearing loss with the world on his podcast, My Hearing Thoughts.   Take a listen to Chezi's podcast on Spotify at:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5sB8mardhGjHC9sQimRqVs?si=40f9969fc21b424a You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast    

Join me for a personal and professional discussion about how a personal journey of living with hearing loss created a professional path to becoming a deaf ENT surgeon with Dr. Chad Ruffin.  Dr. Ruffin was born with severe hearing loss and is uniquely equipped with the skills and experience to improve the lives of individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing.  Dr. Ruffin completed his surgical training at Indiana University.  He is passionate about using his journey as a deaf patient, surgeon, auditory neuroscientist, and hearing technology innovator to help others succeed.  For more information or to contact Dr. Chad Ruffin visit his website at Chad Ruffin, MD | Cochlear Implant Surgeon and ENT (chadruffinmd.com) You can listen to this episode wherever you listen to podcasts and at: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast    

Join Dr. Carrie Spangler, host of empowEAR Audiology, in this gratefulness episode. Living out the mission of the 3C Digital Media Network, Dr. Spangler shares how she is grateful to personally be able to connect, collaborate, and communicate through her cochlear implant journey AND grateful to be the host of empowEAR Audiology and interview the multitude of guests. Take a listen to this GRATEFUL-themed episode reflecting back on the 2022 personal and professional journey, the lessons, and the growth.   Links:  hearingspanglish.blog You can listen to this episode wherever you listen to podcasts and at: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me in a conversation about how social determinants of health are critical conversation and considerations for improving hearing health care for individuals and families.  Dr. Matthew L. Bush is an otolaryngologist, neurotologist, and professor at the University of Kentucky.  He received his medical degree from the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine in Huntington, W.Va. He then completed an Otolaryngology research fellowship and a Neurotology and Cranial Base Surgery fellowship at The Ohio State University Medical Center and Nationwide Children's Hospital Research Institute in Columbus. Dr Bush has a personal history of growing up in rural West Virginia -- driving a passion and purpose to engage in clinical research focusing on healthcare disparities in  hearing healthcare. Dr. Bush has published multiple peer-reviewed papers and has received grants supported by the National Institutes of Health. His reasearch and clinical focus has moved the field forward in thinking outside of the “ear” and influencing positive change looking at the 5 domains of social determinants of health to improve access to care. In this episode, Dr. Bush challenges each of us to start with ourselves and ask the question “What Can We Do?”.  Dr. Bush challenges each of us to physically spend time in the community listening and learning.   You can listen to this episode wherever you access podcasts and at: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast    

Join me in a moving conversation with Rebecca Alexander.  In this conversation, Rebecca takes a deep dive into her own life that she has graciously shared in her published book “Not Fade Away: A Memoir of Senses Lost and Found”.  Rebecca is a psychotherapist, extreme athlete, and activist. She grew up in Northern California and holds 2 master's degrees from Columbia University. She lives in New York City. She was born with Usher syndrome Type III.  In this podcast she shares her incredible story, the importance of feeling emotions and living with adversity, embracing humor in hard circumstances, and surrounding yourself with those who walk beside you.  In this podcast, Rebecca shares several stories about her diagnosis of Ushers as well as her journey to getting a cochlear implant.  Rebecca sets an example of choosing to be grateful, be happy with what you have today, and be optimistic about tomorrow.   Be sure to connect with Rebecca on social media: www.rebalexander.com  (can find her book Not Fade Away) www.rebeccaalexandertherapy.com IG: reb_alexander twitter: reb_alexander You can listen to this episode on most podcatchers or at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

It is Official!!! Rally Caps was selected for the 31st Heartland International Film Festival in Indianapolis starting the week of October 10-16, 2022. This book to film shines a positive spotlight on deafness, cochlear implants, sports, and friendship. Join me as I talk with the woman who made this happen, Jodi Cutler.  The message about accessibility and inclusion will be on the big screen thanks to Jodi's passion and purpose. Grab your popcorn and get your tickets now.  Premiere Link: https://tickets.heartlandfilmfestival.org/.../rally-caps... Encore Link: https://tickets.heartlandfilmfestival.org/.../rally-caps... Virtual Link: https://watch.eventive.org/.../play/63121579c47af100d7e6d508 The code RALLYHIFF will allow customers to receive $2 off the ticket price for any tickets purchased at the above links. Look for the "Have a discount code?" option. For virtual, it's a gray box. For physical, it's blue text in the checkout window after you select your seats. (Screenshots attached.) The code RALLYHIFF must be all-caps with no spaces before or after. Watch the Facebook live version at:  Empowear Audiology | Facebook

Opportunities are the theme of this podcast. Dr. Uma Soman is an assistant professor at Fontbonne University, nonprofit director for Listening Together, and teacher of the deaf/hard of hearing and listening and spoken language specialist. In this podcast, she discusses the opportunities that she has personally and professionally experienced to pay it forward.  Dr. Soman shares about the nonprofit, Listening Together, which focuses on advancing the education and rehabilitation of children who are deaf and hard of hearing through parent empowerment, professional development, and public awareness around the world.  We also take a deeper dive into the role of the teacher of the deaf/hard of hearing, training opportunities to reduce the shortage, and building student, parent, and educator capacity. Get motivated to take opportunities to the next level. For more information visit: Website - www.listeningtogether.com  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ListeningTogether  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/listeningto_dhh/  Email - info@listeningtogether.com  To access this episode and a transcript, please visit: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Stress is a part of every parenting/family journey.  This parenting stress can be compounding when a child is deaf/hard of hearing.  Join me in a conversation with Dr. Ivette Cejas, licensed psychologist, Associate Professor at the University of Miami Ear Institute, and Director of Family Support Services at the University of Miami Children's Hearing Program. Dr. Cejas is a well-known researcher in the area of pediatric hearing loss. She specializes in psychoeducational evaluations for deaf or hard of hearing children, as well as mental health therapy for this population. She is on the Board of Directors at AG Bell and is a member of the American Cochlear Implant Alliance.  In this podcast, Dr. Cejas shares the top stressors parents are faced with, a tool to help measure parenting stress specific to cochlear implants, and ways to support self-efficacy.  She also discusses the importance of including professionals such as psychologists and social workers to support the whole child.   To listen to or access transcripts of this episode:   www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast To connect with Dr. Cejas   icejas@med.miami.edu https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivette-cejas-566783118 https://www.instagram.com/childrenshearingprogram/  

Join me in this special interview with Lynn Wood.  This interview takes a trip down memory lane for both of us!  Lynn was one of my audiologists as a tween and has continued to be a mentor and friend throughout my personal and professional journey.  Lynn is a nationally recognized Listening and Spoken Language Specialist with over 35 years of experience. She is an audiologist by degree and specializes in pediatric LSL auditory verbal therapy, post cochlear implant auditory rehabilitation for children and adults, and therapy for individuals with auditory processing needs. Lynn is the founder of the Auditory Verbal Center of Wheaton and was one of the first audiologists to open a practice devoted exclusively to auditory rehabilitation. Lynn authors evidence-based LSL resources and Listen With Lynn™ is her online store that offers downloadable tools, games, and activities for children, their families, and the professionals who guide them. Find Lynn Wood at:  https://www.hearsaylw.com/ lynn@HearSayLW.com To access this episode as well as a transcript, please visit: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me for an engaging interview with Dr. Johnnie Sexton, audiologist,  as we discuss The CARE Project and Educational Audiology services with a theme of changing the culture of communication.  Dr. Johnnie Sexton, Au.D., has worked with children who are deaf and hard of hearing for over four decades. He has devoted his energy to redefining counseling for families with children who have hearing challenges and the professionals who provide services through The CARE Project, serving as Executive Director, for the advancement of family, professional, and pre-professional training opportunities in emotional/adjustment counseling.  The CARE Project has become a national standard for family engagement for the unique family retreat experiences which provide emotional support and education for family empowerment.  Dr. Sexton also owns a private practice specializing in educational audiology services and educational sign language interpreter services (John E. Sexton & Associates, Inc./JESA). Take a listen and be inspired to create spaces for emotional journeys, family support, and engagement in your areas.   For transcripts of this episode, please go to www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast For more information on the CARE Project:  https://www.thecareproject.com/ Subscribe to the YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDVqaQTAOH-Tq8hE1IWScVQ/featured JESA/Educational Audiology:  https://www.jesanc.com/

Join me in an inspiring conversation with Dr. Jessica Hoefler as she shares her story of Piper's Key and her mission to gift inclusive books to children with disabilities that represent their unique selves in a positive light.  Dr. Hoefler is an educational audiologist for the Summit Educational Service Center.  She is also a strong and dedicated mother of 3.  Piper's Key was formed in memory of her middle child, Piper, who passed away after 27 days on earth due to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA type 0).  Had Piper survived, she would be living with multiple disabilities and would need opportunities to grow a positive self-concept.  Dr. Hoefler has been able to combine her mother's love with her professional passion as an audiologist by forming her nonprofit organization Piper's Key.  Through her nonprofit, she gifts inclusive books to children, many of who are deaf and hard of hearing.  If you are a professional working with any children with differences or if you are a parent, please reach out to Dr. Hoefler through the website at www.piperskey.com or email at  piperskey27@gmail.com.   To access a transcript of this episode, visit: https://www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me in a conversation with Sara Robinson, M.A., CCC-SLP as she opens up about growing stronger in her acceptance and advocacy as a hard of hearing individual.  In this episode, Sara opens up to our audience about growing up with a slow progression of hearing loss, her up and down struggles with hearing aids,  and becoming more and more comfortable with being hard of hearing and advocating.  Sara's vulnerability is courage for others who are trying to “be fine” on the outside while furiously paddling underneath the surface to keep up with communication challenges.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast   Sara Robinson, M.A., CCC-SLP is a Speech-Language Pathologist and Family Consultant for Children's Hospital Colorado in Colorado Springs. She has worked with children who are deaf or hard of hearing for 13 years, first at Boys Town National Research Hospital in Omaha, NE, and then at Children's Hospital Colorado in Colorado Springs. She enjoys working with children of all ages and communication modalities to help each child and family reach their full potential. Sara grew up hard of hearing and uses her experiences to help guide families along their journey. Sara can be reached at  sara.robinson@childrenscolorado.org

Join me in a conversation with Matt Hay as he shares his emotional and physical journey of losing and regaining his hearing.  Through his challenging experiences, he has chosen to focus on the things that he can do rather than the things that he cannot.  Matt was a sophomore in college when he found out that he was going to lose his hearing.  At first, he was in denial but when the sound started slipping away, he wanted to mentally capture and curate a soundtrack of songs about freedom, tragedy and falling in love.  On this podcast, Matt takes us through his journey of overcoming the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of finding out about the diagnosis of NF2 (Neurofibromatosis type 2), losing his hearing, and going through the ABI (auditory brainstem implant) process.  Listen in and be inspired by Matt's message to listeners about hope, overcoming adversity, and inspiring those around you.  To find out more about Matt Hay visit his social media connections:  Matt Hay | Composing a Soundtrack of Silence (hearmatthay.com) (4) Matt Hay | LinkedIn Matt Hay | Facebook For a transcript of this episode, go to: https://www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast    

Take a deeper dive into the impact that YOU have as a leader in your own life with guest Gayla Guignard, Chief Strategy and Programs Officer for the AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.  Join me in an empowering conversation about the topic of servant leadership and how each person is a leader within.  Each of us has a story to share and we have the opportunity to rewrite the story that we live.  Gayla has extensive experiences and roles that have shaped her servant leadership.  She served as the founding director of Indiana's Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education (CDHHE) preceded by several years as Indiana's Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EDHI) coordinator.  Gayla served as AG Bell's Chief Programs Officer from 2003-2007, worked at the Univesity of Tennesse from 1991-2003, a consultant with the National Center on Hearing Assessment and Management (NCHAM) from 2007-2013.  She is an audiologist, speech-language pathologist, and certified listening and spoken language professional.  Do What YOU LOVE!   To get into contact with Gayla Guignard please visit gguignard@agbell.org ghguignard@gmail.com For more information about AG Bell visit:  www.agbell.org For a transcript of this episode, go to: https://www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

Join me in an important conversation with Drs. Jessica Sullivan and Lauren Calandruccio about the IMPACT Program which stands for Innovative Mentoring and Professional Advancement through Cultural Training.  The goal of the IMPACT Program is to increase diversity within the field of speech-language pathology and audiology.  These 2 audiologists have partnered together to offer a year-long mentoring program for students of color to elevate, support, educate, create networks, build confidence, and foster friendships.  Dr. Sullivan shares her own personal journey of becoming a black audiologist in a predominantly white profession and how her experiences shaped a formal mentoring program for undergraduate students.  Dr. Calandruccio shares her insight on the positive impact of providing students access to diverse professionals in the field the ways these connections have empowered her students. Take a listen and learn about the IMPACT Program's priorities and the opportunities it has to offer and consider how this podcast can impact you to make a difference and implement a similar program.     Dr. Jessica Sullivan is the interim Department Chair and assistant professor in the Communicative Sciences and Disorders department at Hampton.  Lauren Calandruccio is the Louis D. Beaumont University Professor II, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences, and the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the College of Arts and Sciences at Case Western Reserve University.  For more information visit: https://psychsciences.case.edu/faculty/lauren-calandruccio/ https://science.hamptonu.edu/csad/facstaff.cfm https://www.instagram.com/impact_csd/ https://journals.lww.com/thehearingjournal/Fulltext/2021/10000/Student_IMPACT__New_Program_Promotes_Diversity,.1.aspx https://www.asha.org/siteassets/surveys/2020-member-and-affiliate-profile.pdf

Take a listen to this engaging conversation with Lisa Kovacs.  Lisa is a parent and professional who has had over 21 years of experience parenting her own child as well as advocating and empowering other families who are on this journey.  Lisa gives us a peek into her own journey of raising a child who is deaf/hard of hearing and provides our listeners with thoughtful, reflective advice.  Lisa is also employed by the Hands and Voices organization which is a parent-driven organization that supports families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing with a motto of “what works for your child is what makes the choice right”.  Lisa is the current director of programs in which she provides support and oversight to the GBYS and ASTra programs, including start up support, as well as providing technical assistance and information coordination.  She is also the director of the FL3 program.     To connect with Lisa or find out more information about Hands and Voices, visit the following links:   lisakovacs@handsandvoices.org Hands & Voices Chapter listing – https://handsandvoices.org/chapters/starts.htm   Family-based Organizations/ Family leaders FL3 Center listing – https://handsandvoices.org/fl3/topics/fam-fam-support/need-support.html H&V Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/handsandvoices    

Join me in talking with Dr. Kristina Blaiser about the importance of understanding systematic assessments patterns and trends for children who are deaf and hard of hearing and using trends for training and collaboration for SLPs and other related professionals. Dr. Kristina (Kristi) Blaiser is an Associate Professor of Speech-Language Pathology at Idaho State University. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Speech-Language Hearing Sciences from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN. Kristi's professional and research focus is to ensure children who are Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing reach their full potential, specifically through systematic assessment as the foundation for support and training of the adults who interact with them. Dr. Blaiser is the Coordinator for the American Speech-Language Hearing Association's Special Interest Group, Pediatric Hearing  and Hearing Disorders, the Idaho representative for the national Speech-Language Pathology Advisory Council, and a committee member of Idaho's Newborn Hearing Screening Advisory Council. Join Dr. Kristina Blaiser and I in this podcast episode  reviews research about assessment information and the importance of integrating into meaningful goals and objectives for children who are deaf and hard of hearing, through professional development opportunities and resources.  Taking a step back, seeking collaboration, and continuously listening and increasing knowledge are important key discussion points to help children who are deaf and hard of hearing reach their potential.   You can reach Dr. Kristi Blaiser at kristina.blaiser@isu.edu Transcript: https://www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/empowear-audiology-podcast  

What happens when a student who is deaf or hard of hearing does not have an educational audiologist on their educational team?  Join me in this episode with Dr. Kym Meyer as she shares how her grassroots efforts have grown to provide the IDEA related services to multiple districts across Massachusetts.  She received her undergraduate degree in communication disorders and education and her master's degree in audiology from Gallaudet University.  In 1994 she obtained an educational audiology position at the Learning Center for the Deaf in Mass.  In 2001, she started what is now known as the Public School Partnerships which provides statewide educational audiology services in 80 school districts. Dr. Kym Meyer recently received her PhD in special education policy from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst with a focus on how to expand educational audiology services across the United States. Dr. Kym Meyer continues to utilize her research and professional knowledge in supporting students, parents, and professionals through her work at the university, state, and national levels.   Please check out the resources mentioned in this podcast!  https://www.wrightslaw.com/info/rel.svcs.ed.aud.meyer.htm https://www.audiologyonline.com/audiology-ceus/course/to-advocate-for-educational-audiology-33424 https://www.edaud.org/position-stat/15-position-02-18.pdf To reach Dr. Kym Meyer:   www.KymMeyer.com  KymMeyerPhD@gmail.com Twitter handle is @KymPMeyer

Join me in a conversation with Derek Houston, Ph.D. as we discuss how language impacts children with cochlear implants.  Dr. Houston brings a wealth of information to this topic.  Dr. Houston currently is in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine where he directs the Buckeye Center for Hearing and Development. His work has focused on the effects of early auditory deprivation and subsequent cochlear implantation on speech discrimination, attention to speech, sensitivity to language-specific properties of speech, word learning, and general cognitive skills in deaf infants and toddlers. In this episode, Dr. Houston discusses a proposed conceptual framework to explain the relationship between language input and language outcomes. TAAC is the idea that total language input directed to children with cochlear implants  is moderated by what is accessible, attended, and coordinated with the child. Take a listen as we take a deeper dive into each of the TAAC components. For more information about the Buckeye Center for Hearing and Development and also to connect with Dr. Derek Houston, visit the website:  https://medicine.osu.edu/departments/otolaryngology/research/buckeye-center https://medicine.osu.edu/find-faculty/clinical/otolaryngology/derek-houston-phd

Join me in a conversation with the accomplished Dr. Donald Goldberg as we have a discussion about the important history and work of the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing, the important work and collaboration between hearing healthcare professionals, educators, and families, and the positive impact of the fields, including how Dr. Goldberg ventured into the field. Dr. Donald Goldberg has his Ph.D., CCC-SLP/A, LSLS certified AVT, and is full professor at the College of Wooster (Ohio).  Dr. Goldberg is also a member of the Professional Staff for the Section of Audiology and Hearing Implant Program (HIP) at the Cleveland Clinic's Head and Neck Institute.  Dr. Goldberg has co-authored a book, written numerous book chapters, published a range of research-based and clinical publications, and has been an invited speaker throughout the United States and Canada, as well as 16 other countries.  He was awarded the “Honors” of the AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in 2018 and became a “Fellow” of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) in 2020.  Dr. Goldberg's most recent clinical work has been the field testing of the soon-to-be published "Test of Auditory Functioning" (BlueTree Publishing).  For more information about Dr. Goldberg visit https://wooster.edu/bio/dgoldberg/

Join me in a conversation about one of my favorite topics, Educational Audiology!  On this podcast I had the opportunity to interview 2 educational audiologists who work for the Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech.  Clarke has five sites that offer interdisciplinary professional services in center-based, home-based, school-based and virtual services for infants, families, school-age children and adults.  At Clarke, audiologists are a critical part of our interdisciplinary team of professionals that support students of all ages and their families.   Ashley Dainton, AuD, CCC-A, F-AAA, Audiologist at the Clarke Hearing Center  From an early age, Ashley knew she wanted to work in a multidisciplinary field as a healthcare professional. She graduated summa cum laude from Kent State University with a B.S. in Speech Pathology and Audiology. She completed her Doctorate of Audiology at the Northeast Ohio AuD Consortium (NOAC) and received the 2017 Lagler Award for outstanding graduate student. Ashley had clinical placements at the Independence Cleveland Clinic Family Health Center, Mercy Health, Stark County Educational Service Center, the Kent State University and University of Akron clinics and she was part of NOAC's first audiology mission to Guatemala. Ashley went to California to complete her fourth-year audiology externship at the Providence Speech and Hearing Center. During her externship, Ashley had three clinical rotations that included adult and pediatric hearing aid fitting and services, diagnostic testing and specialty testing, auditory brainstem response testing and cochlear implants.  Rebecca Huzzy, AuD, CCC-A, Educational Audiologist at Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech Rebecca Huzzy, AuD, CCC-A, Educational Audiologist at Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech, graduated cum laude from Bloomsburg University in 2003 with a BS in audiology and speech pathology and then again in 2007 with a doctorate in audiology. Dr. Huzzy has worked as a clinical audiologist at Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware since graduating, and began working as an educational audiologist at Clarke Philadelphia in July 2013. Her clinical interests include cochlear implants, amplification and education.   For more information about Clarke visit the following website and follow them on social media.  Clarke: https://www.clarkeschools.org

Join me in a conversation with Dr. Stacey Lim, AuD., Ph.D., CCC-A who is an Assistant Professor of Audiology at Central Michigan University.  Dr. Lim has both a personal and professional journey in the field of audiology. Her research and publication areas include cochlear implantation, aural rehabilitation, language and literacy development and cognitive processing mechanisms.  She also teaches multiple classes in the department of Audiology at Central Michigan University.  Dr. Lim also has a lifelong journey growing up with hearing loss.  In this podcast interview, Stacey shares her parent's journey of navigating a world of raising a child who is deaf as well as her own personal experiences growing up in the mainstream school setting and later navigating to the field of audiology.   For more information about Dr. Stacey Lim: https://www.cmich.edu/colleges/CHP/directory/Pages/Stacey-Lim-.aspx www.disabledbeautyshow.com

One good ear is all you need, right?  Join me for a special episode about Unilateral Hearing Loss with Dr. Anita Jeyakumar, MD, MS.  In this episode we dig deeper into the impact of unilateral hearing loss as well as non medical and medical solutions.  Dr. Jeyakumar has over 20 years of experience in the field of otolaryngology.  She received her bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, her master's in chemistry degree (MS) from Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN, and her medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Dr. Jeyakumar completed an internship in General Surgery and a residency in Otolaryngology at Strong Memorial Hospital University of Rochester, in New York. She completed her clinical fellowship in Pediatric Otolaryngology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio.  Dr. Jeyakumar works for Mercy Health Otolaryngology in the Youngstown area in Ohio where she is starting a multidisciplinary clinic for patients with hearing loss, and a cochlear implantation and hearing rehabilitation program. Her current research interests are focused on the genetics of hearing loss, outcomes research and quality of life projects.  To contact Dr. Jeyakumar, visit the website: https://www.mercy.com/find-a-doctor/physicians/anita-jeyakumar/1985497

My Battle Call! Join me as I sit down with Valli Gideons for a real, authentic conversation about raising her two children with cochlear implants and how she turned her journalism background into her “Battle Call” to help families and professionals around the world.  Valli is a military bride, who writes about navigating through the fog of raising kids with cochlear implants and other things from the heart.  She provides inspiration for anyone through her freelance writing, webpage, speaking engagements, and social media.  Valli and her daughter, Harper, recently published a children's book called “Now Hear this, Harper Soars with her Magic Ears” and can be purchased on Amazon or by reaching out to Valli directly for a signed copy.  To connect with Valli, follow her on FaceBook, Instagram, and her own webpage.   https://mybattlecall.com/ https://www.facebook.com/MyBattleCall/ https://www.instagram.com/mybattlecall/

Join me for an inspirational interview with Dr. Samantha Kesteloot as she shares her experience growing up as a twin in the public school system in Michigan with bilateral hearing loss.  Samantha's hearing journey led her down the path of educational audiology.  Dr. Samantha Kesteloot is now an educational audiologist with Trenton's Oral Program for the Deaf/ Hard of Hearing in Trenton, Michigan. She graduated from Wayne State University's Audiology program in 2020 after completing her externship at the Central Institute for the Deaf in St. Louis, Missouri. Her hearing loss was identified at the age of 4 after which she was fit with bilateral hearing aids. In 2017 Sam decided to be implanted with a hybrid cochlear implant at Vanderbilt University. She enjoys spending time with her friends, traveling and staying involved with professional volunteer activities as well as those for kids/ families with hearing loss. 

My Child Has Hearing Loss, Now What?  Join me in learning more about an amazing new course, resources, and videos for parents of children with hearing loss (and for professionals too).  Dr. Michelle Hu has combined her 38 years of personal experiences with her 12 years of professional expertise as a pediatric audiologist to help navigate the journey as a DHH family.  In this podcast, Dr. Hu shares about her new release, what is included, and how to purchase this incredible resource.  Take a listen and visit Dr. Hu's website at www.mamahuhears.com

Join me in this special podcast remix of the Facebook Live event on Back to School Hot Topics with Dr. Cheryl DeConde Johnson and Dr. Lisa Cannon.  Cheryl is internationally recognized for her extensive expertise in the field of educational audiology and deaf education including authorship, public speaking, teaching, consulting, research and much more.  Lisa brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the field of educational audiology including national and state leadership positions, presentations, program development, and currently is the president of the Educational Audiology Association.    In this episode we take a deep dive into hot topics that impact students who are deaf and hard of hearing as well as those who support students in the educational setting.  From masks, to access, to technology you will be engaged in what we learned last year and what we can do moving forward.  Resources are shared in the show notes and also the episode to check out.   Be ready to engage in the conversation as well as participate in a call for appreciation action for our teachers who serve students each and every day.   Resources to Check Out: Cheryl DeConde Johnson:  https://adevantage.com/ Lisa Cannon:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-cannon-62bb526/ Educational Audiology Association:  https://edaud.org/ Roger Soundfield:  Optimizing Audibility with Dr. Cheryl DeConde Johnson https://youtu.be/JOi3FgM0mxI  

Exactly 1 Year ago today the empowEAr audiology podcast was released.  Today is not only a celebration of 1 year, but also a celebration of the 25th episode.  25 is a great # to celebrate whether it is a birthday, anniversary, or the 25th empowEAR audiology podcast.  What are you waiting to celebrate?  I encourage you to believe in yourself and make the most of what gifts and talents you were made for. IN celebration of 1 year and 25 episodes, I wanted to dedicate this episode to reflecting, refreshing and restarting.  Today I will reflect on my own personal gain, refresh on how 3C digital media made empowEAR audiology come alive as well as the multiple guests and listeners, and restart with goals for year 2.   The first episode of empowEAR audiology is titled “What is My Purpose”.   In reflecting on this question over the past year, I have been reminded that we truly do not know another person's journey- we all have our own experiences that make us who we are.  I am truly grateful that I tood this leap of faith with the empowerEAR audiolgy podcast to develop a unique platform for storytelling as it relates to personal and professional hearing journeys.  In episode #20, I interviewed Karin Weiser, international career transition coach, connector, and storytelling.  She also has a journey with a cochlear implant.  In this episode Karin goes deeper into why sharing your story.  We learn by stories, we open up emotions by telling stories, and we make lessons stick by telling stories.  What Story do you have to tell?   Reflecting on my own story as it relates to being hard of hearing as well as an audiologist; I hope empowEAR audiology is helping to break down the stigmas that continue to surround hearing loss and others gain a deeper understanding of the unique spectrum of deaf and hard of hearing individuals.   I started thinking about stigma again because it has been a topic of conversation at a recent conference that I attended.  My reflection actually took me back to my childhood years.  I thought to myself….this little girl ME, was born with hearing loss and not identified and fit with amplification until the age of 4, had a significant articulation difficulties,  wore analog hearing aids that really did not have the capacity to give access to the full speech spectrum, spend 12 years in speech, language, and auditory therapy, attended my public neighborhood school and was on an IEP receiving special ed services, went onto college and was told that because of my hearing loss, that pursing the field of audiology may not be a good choice, persisted through and achieved a doctorate in audiology, began a successful and rewarding career path in educational audiology, went on the cochlear implant journey late in life, and NOW I am hosting a podcast!!  Who would have ever thought that the little girl who was so difficult to understand with a significant bilateral severe to profound hearing loss would be celebrating the joy of 25 podcast episodes!!  Life has a way of making your own challenges your greatest purpose and if you dare to think differently you will emerge stronger.  In my own spiritual personal journey, I am absolutely grateful to have this lifelong hearing challenge.  Yes there are times that I am frustrated, mad, and feel isolated in this vibrant hearing world; but I have learned how to be resilient and determined.  From this hearing journey, emerged many positive relations and a purposeful career.  If you have not already heard my story, take a listen to episode one.  I hope you feel empowEARed after this little reflection to overcome your own obstacles with resilience and determination. In today's 25th episode I also wanted to hit the refresh button and talk about 3C Digital network, empowEAR's guests, and YOU as listeners.   I wanted to share a quick story about how I got connected to 3C Digital Media Network.  A good friend an colleague, Dr. Todd Houston interviewed me about 1 ½ years ago for his own podcast titled “The Listening Brain”.  You can visit his podcast and look for episode #10 to hear this conversation or go to the shownotes and you can find it here too.  After that episode, Todd asked if I have ever considered hosting my own podcast.  I had actually thought about it but with a full time job and family, I did not have an abundance of extra time to figure out all of the behind the scenes actions that go into launching and sustaining a podcast.  He went on to share about how he and 2 other colleagues that I know and admire, Scott Palasik and Tammy Bradham, teamed up and had created 3Cdigitalmedia network.  They were looking for content creators.  It was the exact platform, support, and expertise that I needed to be involved with to make empowEAR audiology come alive.  Thank you Todd for asking me and to the whole 3CDigital team for your ongoing guidance and support.  If any of you have considered a podcast, webinar, blog, or any other content creations…reach out and see if 3Cdigitatl media network would be a fit for you.  Thank YOU 3C! Let's hit the refresh button again and talk about the amazing guests!!  This podcast would not be possible without each of you being willing to give up some time and share your talents.  I truly get so excited each and every time that I have an interview set up!  You can visit the website to listen, Apple, Spotify, and Google play to catch all of the episodes.  I am going to give a brief rundown of each of the guests.   Dr. Cheryl DeConde Johnson, my first interview and you can hear about her personal story as a parent and professional as well as returning to school during the pandemic Dr. Tina Childress shares her personal story and we discuss “shoes” aka masks and accommodations during the pandemic Camille Warren is a mom and she shares her story and advice for parents and professionals for reentry back to school during the pandemic Dr Carol Flexer and a conversation about lifelong learning, mentoring, the brain, and passion for audiology Dr Gail Whitelaw and Counselors about teens, teen mentorship, and cultivating advocacy through the campUS experience Dr. Oliver Adunka, my CI surgeon and the cochlear implant process Dr. Elizabeth Walker and the significance of mild hearing loss in children Janet DesGeorges discusses her parent journey as well as her new book “Not a Leader, Now a Leader” Dr. Erin Schafer and wearing the mic Deanna Magna and the role of the TOD/HH Dr. Karen MacIver Lux  personal story and my HEAR-O Dr Ryan McCreary and the importance of research in audiology Dr Michelle Hu and happiness with peer to peer connections for deaf/hard of hearing 4 Moms (Nancy, Maggie, Stephanie, Tina) share Get It moments about raising a child who is d/hh Dr. Marc Brennan and his personal story, research and framing the hearing loss advantage Dr. Angela Alexander and her personal passion and dedicated work in the area of  APD Karin Weiser, career coach, cochlear implant user, and the importance of sharing your story Dr. Sam Atcherson and his personal journey and finding the right solutions and support Julianna and Andrew Hebert from HearSTrong Foundation and being a HS Champion Dr. Rene Gifford shares about bimodal hearing Jaime Vernon shares her mom journey and her 501c3 Songs for Sounds.   I want to say that I don't have a favorite episode because I love them all.  I am grateful for your storytelling, whether it is a personal or professional journey.  I loved learning from each of you and digging deeper into topics to empowEAR others.  I cannot wait to meet more guests as we kick off year 2.   Refresh one more time….Listeners!!  Thanks to all of you for tuning in twice a month to catch the latest episodes.  I have heard from many of year and continue to receive positive feedback.  It brings me great joy to hear when a college professor shares this podcast with students to listen.  It warms my heart to find out that a parent was inspired by another parent sharing their story.  I am encouraged when an adult who is deaf/hard of hearing realizes that there are others who are in their shoes.  Listeners keep on listening.  Share with others.  Engage with me on the empowEAR Audiology FB page.  Please give a 5 star review.  Consider writing a favorable comment.  All of these actions helps empowerEAR Audiology grow so others can benefit.  Listeners, if there is someone that you want to hear from, please reach out!!   Restart!!  I am looking forward to year 2 and 25 more episodes.  I strive to bring more empowEARing personal stories, cutting edge researchers and professionals, and additional practical knowledge and tips to all of you.  I will be trying out some new ways to engage in this upcoming year including some FB live events and learning opportunities.   A huge thanks again to everyone and for believing in me.  Cheers to Year 2 and 25 more. 

Join me in an inspiring and influential conversation with Jaime Vernon.  We all face trials and tribulations in our life, and Jaime shares how her own personal trial led her to imagine, invent, invent, and inspire Songs for Sounds.  Jaime shares her story of finding out that her daughter, Lexi, was diagnosed with profound bilateral hearing loss.  Through her own parenting journey as well as her professional background; she uses music as an inspiration to make a profound difference.  Take a listen and hear how Songs For Sound was founded on a heartwarming story leading to a passionate objective: to bridge the gap between “I think I have hearing loss” and quality hearing healthcare while increasing inclusion opportunities for those with hearing loss and deafness.     For more information about Songs For Sounds and how to make a difference, visit the website at https://songsforsound.com/