Earlier this month, Starkey released its Omega AI hearing aid platform, and at EUHA 2025, Chief Technology Officer Achin Bhowmik discussed how the company’s latest generation builds on prior AI-driven models with new neural-network architecture designed to improve both hearing performance and health monitoring.Omega AI introduces what Starkey describes as the industry’s first use of three deep neural networks running in parallel. Each network performs a distinct function: one enhances speech understanding in noise, another predicts and proactively adjusts directionality, and a third monitors the acoustic environment to improve spatial awareness. According to Bhowmik, this approach—modeled on how multiple regions of the auditory cortex process sound—has resulted in measurable gains, including a reported 28 percent improvement in speech recognition accuracy and 8 decibel greater audibility for off-axis sounds compared with the previous Edge AI platform.Beyond hearing performance, Omega AI expands Starkey’s health-and-wellness capabilities. The devices now guide users through AI-based balance exercises, leveraging built-in motion sensors that assess gait and stability using protocols developed with academic partners. The system can also track physiological data such as respiration rate, providing users and clinicians with additional health insights that can support fall prevention and overall well-being.Bhowmik also outlined new generative-AI tools integrated across Starkey’s ecosystem. The TeleHear AI feature enables wearers to describe listening difficulties in natural language, prompting the device to suggest and apply fitting adjustments that can later be reviewed by the professional. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Andrew Bellavia joined Phonak ambassadors — Olympian Aaron Small and pro skier Robin Gillon — on stage to share honest conversations about hearing loss, stigma, and the role technology plays in staying connected — on and off the field. Both athletes spoke candidly about the challenges they’ve faced, how hearing aids have supported their performance and confidence, and the importance of visibility and advocacy in breaking down outdated perceptions of hearing loss.Their conversation underscored how access to hearing technology can empower individuals in every aspect of life — from communication and safety to identity and self-belief. The discussion took place during Phonak’s EUHA 2025 announcement of its new Audéo Infinio Ultra hearing aid, highlighting the connection between innovation, advocacy, and lived experience within the hearing community.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Early detection of hearing loss shouldn’t stop at birth. In this episode, Dr. Bob Traynor speaks with Dr. James W. Hall III, an internationally recognized audiologist, educator, and author with more than 40 years of experience in clinical and academic audiology. Together, they discuss a new evidence-based approach to preschool and early school-age hearing screening that goes beyond traditional pure tone testing.Dr. Hall explains why combining Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAEs) with tympanometry provides a faster, more objective, and more accurate way to identify hearing loss before it impacts speech, language, and learning. Drawing from large-scale studies and decades of expertise, he outlines how clinicians, pediatricians, and schools can apply this updated method to close the gap between newborn screening and school-age identification — ensuring no child with hearing loss is overlooked.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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With the Atom X, Audien introduces a new touchscreen-based hearing aid designed for simplicity and accessibility. Andy Bellavia speaks with Audien Hearing CEO Ishan Patel about the device’s key features and the company’s broader mission to make hearing care more approachable for people around the world.In this conversation, Patel explains how user feedback from over a million customers shaped the design of the Atom X, which replaces traditional buttons and smartphone apps with an intuitive touchscreen charging case. Andy shares his impressions after testing the device, discussing how its straightforward controls, sound performance, and streaming functions align with Audien’s goal of removing barriers to hearing aid adoption.Together, they explore how innovations like the Atom X represent a shift toward simpler, more affordable solutions in the growing over-the-counter hearing aid market—and what that could mean for expanding access to hearing care globally.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Audiologists took to Capitol Hill on Thursday, September 25, 2025, to advocate for better patient access to hearing and balance care as part of ADA Lobby Day in Washington, D.C.Held during the Academy of Doctors of Audiology’s AuDacity conference, the event brought hundreds of audiologists, students, and supporters together to meet with legislators and promote the Medicare Audiology Access Improvement Act (MAAIA). The bill seeks to modernize Medicare by recognizing audiologists as practitioners, removing the outdated physician referral requirement, and allowing them to practice to the full extent of their training.In this episode, host Andrew Bellavia speaks with participants and policy advocates to explore why this legislation matters, how it impacts patient care, and how advocacy—both in Washington and back home—can help move the profession forward.👉 Learn more and get involved: ADA provides advocacy resources, including information on MAAIA and how to contact your legislators, at https://www.audiologist.org/resources/advocate/advocacy-resources.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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How do you help people truly understand what modern hearing aids sound like?In this episode, Bob Traynor speaks with Rob Koch, Founder and CEO of AHead Simulations, to introduce ALEX (Audio Listening EXperience) — the company’s newest innovation designed to make hearing aid technology more tangible and relatable for patients, families, and the public.Building on the success of CARL, AHead’s training mannequin used worldwide to teach hearing aid fittings and verification, ALEX brings that same simulation technology into clinics and communities. The device allows users to experience what hearing aids can do in real time, helping clinicians demonstrate advanced features and reduce stigma around hearing loss and amplification.Koch explains how ALEX is helping bridge the gap between innovation and understanding — creating new ways for professionals to educate, engage, and inspire confidence in hearing solutions.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Professional soccer players Rylee Foster and Trip Neil share their inspiring journeys of living—and thriving—with hearing loss, both on and off the field. Foster, a Phonak Ambassador and the first athlete with hearing loss to sign with a Division I professional women’s soccer team, uses her platform to raise awareness and advocate for hearing health. Neil, founder and COO of Dallas Trinity FC, brings his perspective as both a player and sports executive, emphasizing how communication, inclusion, and leadership help create more supportive environments for athletes with hearing challenges.Hosted by Shari Eberts, this discussion explores how hearing loss impacts communication, teamwork, and focus in competitive sports, along with the mental and physical strain of hearing fatigue. Both Foster and Neil reflect on the lessons they’ve learned through their experiences—how hearing loss has strengthened their resilience, sharpened their awareness, and deepened their commitment to advocacy and accessibility in athletics.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Live from the Academy of Doctors of Audiology conference, Andrew Bellavia catches up with John Luna of Nuance Audio, winner of the 2025 Hearing Technology Innovator Awards 'Innovator of the Year' title. Luna discusses how the recognition is driving new interest in their hearing glasses and shares how the technology is expanding into both audiology and vision care channels.
What happens when people report real hearing difficulties, but their audiograms show “normal” results?In this episode, Brian Taylor speaks with Dr. Brittan Barker and Dr. Aryn Kamerer from Utah State University about their recent research on adults with unexplained hearing concerns. Despite normal test results, many of these individuals struggle with everyday communication, particularly in noisy environments. The discussion explores patient experiences, the clinical “conundrum” faced by audiologists, and why listening to patient narratives is critical for improving careDiscover the three major themes from their study: dismissive healthcare experiences, misaligned testing methods, and the lengths patients go to find answers. The conversation highlights how clinicians can take practical steps toward more person-centered care and better outcomes.**link to their recently published research in the International Journal of Audiology can be found here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2024.2404150Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Rock guitar legend Paul Gilbert (Mr. Big, Racer X) joins host Shari Eberts to share his personal journey with hearing loss and how it has shaped his life, both on and off the stage. He opens up about the challenges of understanding speech compared to music, the role of hearing aids in his daily life, and how he has learned to advocate for his needs by asking people to speak slowly, clearly, and face him.As a Phonak ambassador, Paul is passionate about breaking down stigma and encouraging conversations around hearing health. He discusses how gradually adapting to hearing aids changed his perspective, why prevention and protection remain critical, and how technology can empower people to stay connected. From on-stage strategies to practical tips for everyday listening, Paul highlights the ways hearing care can improve quality of life.This candid conversation goes beyond music—it’s about resilience, awareness, and finding joy in sound again. Whether you’re a musician, a student of hearing health, or simply someone navigating life with hearing loss, Paul’s story offers valuable insight and inspiration.
Learn more and connect with Paul Gilbert:
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What does it really take to keep a private audiology practice running smoothly? In this episode, Operations Manager Carla Taghvaei of A&A Audiology in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the daily challenges and rewards of managing a growing clinic.Carla shares how her practice organizes patient scheduling, handles insurance and third-party billing, manages staff training, and creates a welcoming experience for every patient who walks through the door. She explains why consistency, communication, and proactive planning are essential to success—and how even small details, like confirming appointments or checking equipment orders, can make a big difference in patient care.Whether you’re an AuD student, new graduate, or someone aspiring to own or operate a private practice, this conversation provides candid insights into balancing business operations with a patient-first philosophy. Carla also offers advice on leadership, team management, and the importance of building trust with both staff and patientsBe sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Comedian D.J. Demers joins Gael Hannan to explore the intersection of humor and hearing loss. Known for his appearances on America’s Got Talent, late-night talk shows, and his Canadian sitcom One More Time, Demers has built a career making audiences laugh while also normalizing conversations about hearing aids and everyday challenges of hearing loss.In this conversation, he shares how stand-up comedy helped shape his identity, the impact of portraying a hard-of-hearing character on television, and some of the awkward (and hilarious) moments that come with performing live. The discussion also touches on media representation, the evolving visibility of hearing loss, and Demers’ future projects.
Learn more about D.J. Demers on his website https://www.djdemers.com/
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Can regenerative medicine move beyond managing symptoms to actually restore natural hearing?Brian Taylor speaks with Simon Chandler, CEO of Rinri Therapeutics, about the company’s pioneering cell therapy for hearing loss. They discuss Rincell-1, Rinri’s first-in-human clinical trial, and how regenerative medicine could complement or even surpass today’s treatments like hearing aids and cochlear implants.The conversation also explores Rinri’s innovative surgical delivery approach, trial design, and future pipeline, including next-generation therapies aimed at restoring hair cells. Chandler shares his vision for how regenerative medicine could reshape hearing care and open the door to restoring hearing for millions worldwide.Learn more about Rinri and Rincell-1 at: https://www.rinri-therapeutics.comBe sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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What if a regenerative therapy could not only halt sudden hearing loss but also help the inner ear repair itself? Dr. Reimar Schlingensiepen, CEO of Berlin-based biotech AudioCure, joins Brian Taylor to discuss AC102, the company’s lead compound now in Phase 2 clinical trials for sudden sensorineural hearing loss. With limited treatment options available today, the drug is being closely watched as a potential breakthrough in hearing healthcare.Dr. Schlingensiepen explains why sudden hearing loss should be treated as a medical emergency, the shortcomings of current steroid-based approaches, and how AC102 works at the cellular level to prevent programmed cell death and restore critical connections in the auditory system. He also highlights the progress of ongoing clinical trials and discusses how AC102 could potentially improve outcomes for patients undergoing cochlear implant surgery by reducing insertion-related trauma.The discussion further touches on broader applications, including recent preclinical findings published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. In that study, AC102 nearly eliminated tinnitus symptoms in an animal model of acoustic trauma while supporting repair of damaged synaptic connections in the inner ear. These results point to the potential for regenerative medicine to reshape treatment of auditory disorders that remain poorly served today.Reference for recently published study on AC102:
Learn more about AudioCure and AC102 here: https://www.audiocure.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.
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Madison Levine sits down with Dave Kemp to share her journey from founding a private practice to shaping it into a clinic that bridges hearing care with the wider healthcare system, emphasizing the role of hearing in cognition and aging well. She discusses her recent TEDx talk, the importance of physician and patient education, and how hearing care professionals can strike the right balance between raising awareness and avoiding alarmist messaging.From building referral networks to motivating patients with research-based conversations about cognition, Madison underscores the need for audiology to address one of the public’s greatest fears: dementia. She also reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome, the experience of giving a TEDx talk, and the lessons learned in growing her clinic into a thriving, medically focused practice.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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Phonak has introduced the Virto R Infinio, its first fully rechargeable custom in-the-ear hearing aid. Built on the Infinio platform, Virto R offers a deeply recessed, discreet fit while delivering the same advanced performance as Phonak’s behind-the-ear models.
Key features include RightFit technology for personalized acoustics, biometric calibration for optimized directionality, and AutoSense OS 7 trained on 18x more real-life speech material for improved sound matching. The device also integrates SmartSpeech technology, StereoZoom 2.0, and universal Bluetooth with RogerDirect compatibility.In this discussion, Christine Jones, Vice President of Marketing at Sonova, highlights the innovations behind Virto R Infinio and what makes it different from earlier custom models. She explains how the combination of rechargeability, personalized fitting, and next-generation connectivity create a strong option for both new and experienced hearing aid users.Host Andrew Bellavia shares his own first-hand impressions of wearing Virto R Infinio, offering a user perspective on comfort, sound quality, pairing, and real-world performance in quiet and social situations.
🔗Virto R Infinio announcement: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearing-technologies/2025/virto-r-infinio-hearing-aids/
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What if a cochlear implant could adapt and improve throughout a patient’s lifetime? Hearing health advocate and author Gael Hannan sits down with Brendan Murray, Vice President of CI Product Portfolio at Cochlear, to discuss the launch of the Cochlear™ Nucleus® Nexa™ System. The Nexa is the first cochlear implant platform with upgradeable firmware, allowing recipients to benefit from future innovations beyond traditional sound processor upgrades.The system includes the Nucleus Nexa Implant along with the new Nucleus 8 Nexa and Kanso 3 Nexa Sound Processors. Key features include internal memory to securely store individualized hearing settings, Smart Sync for rapid restoration of maps when replacing a processor, and Dynamic Power Management for improved efficiency. The Nucleus 8 Nexa Sound Processor is also 9% smaller and 12% lighter than its predecessor, while still delivering all-day battery life.In this conversation, Murray outlines how the Nexa represents the first major cochlear implant redesign in more than 20 years, bringing advances in patient self-management, expanded diagnostic tools for clinicians, and a platform that can adapt to future hearing innovations.
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For the first time, optical coherence tomography (OCT) is being used to study the human inner ear directly in patients. In this follow-up conversation, Dr. John Oghalai, Professor and Chair of the Caruso Department of Otolaryngology at USC, shares the latest advances in this groundbreaking research.Dr. Oghalai describes how his team has transitioned from animal studies to human imaging, uncovering new insights into conditions such as Meniere’s disease and vestibular schwannoma. By visualizing endolymphatic hydrops in real patients, this work moves closer to a future where handheld OCT devices could help audiologists and clinicians diagnose and monitor inner ear disorders in everyday practice.The discussion explores both the promise and current challenges of developing practical, non-invasive imaging tools—technology that may one day transform care for hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.
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ReSound has introduced the Enzo IA, its newest super-power hearing aid built for people with severe-to-profound hearing loss. Smaller and rechargeable, Enzo IA offers up to 28 hours of battery life while delivering powerful gain without feedback. It also brings advanced hearing-in-noise performance through the new Clear Focus beamforming system, along with Auracast™ compatibility for next-generation streaming in public and private spaces. In this discussion, GN’s Chief Audiology Officer, Laurel Christensen, highlights the technology advances that make Enzo IA a significant step beyond its predecessor, the Enzo QThe conversation also features Peter Justesen, newly appointed President of GN’s Hearing Division, who shares his perspective on the company’s broader mission. He discusses how GN is accelerating innovation cycles, working to break down stigma around hearing loss, and ensuring that super-power users gain access to the same cutting-edge technology as other hearing aid users. Together, their insights provide a clear look at both the product’s impact and GN’s long-term vision for hearing health.
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What happens when the technology that restores your hearing comes with ongoing costs that insurance often won’t cover? Angela Irwin—bilateral cochlear implant recipient, TEDx speaker, confidence coach, and founder of the Joyful Life Cochlear Implant Fund—shares her personal journey and why she’s working to ensure no one loses their hearing a second time due to equipment costs. In this in-depth conversation, Angela explains the hidden expenses of cochlear implant upkeep, from rechargeable batteries to obsolete components, and the emotional impact these challenges can have on recipients. She also discusses how her nonprofit not only provides financial assistance for essential equipment but also offers coaching and advocacy tools to help people navigate life with a cochlear implant, build confidence, and communicate their needs effectively.🔗 Learn more about the JLCIF: https://jlcif.org/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- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/
