This Week in Hearing

Can lost hearing cells be replaced? Lineage Cell Therapeutics CEO Brian Culley returns to discuss the company’s new collaboration with William Demant Invest. Together, they’re advancing ReSonance™ (ANP1) — an experimental cell therapy designed to replace damaged auditory neurons and potentially restore communication between the ear and the brain.Culley explains how the partnership combines Lineage’s regenerative cell technology with the audiology expertise of Eriksholm Research Centre to move this therapy toward first-in-human testing. Backed by up to $12 million in research funding, the multi-year effort could represent a new frontier in treating hearing loss in the future.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Hearing loss stigma continues to be one of the biggest barriers to seeking help — even as awareness and technology improve. In this discussion, host Shari Eberts speaks with Dr. Katie Ekberg (Flinders University) and Dr. Louise Hickson (University of Queensland) about their research on hearing loss stigma — exploring how social perceptions, disclosure dilemmas, and outdated stereotypes affect help-seeking and hearing aid adoption.The conversation examines the difference between how patients, families, and clinicians view stigma, the impact of humor and self-advocacy in communication, and why changing the conversation around hearing loss—not just hearing aids—is vital to improving outcomes for millions of adults.**Research reference: Ekberg, K., & Hickson, L. (2024). To tell or not to tell? Exploring the social process of stigma for adults with hearing loss and their families. International Journal of Audiology. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14992027.2023.2293651Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

At EUHA 2025, Phonak presented the latest advancements to its Infinio platform, including the Virto R Infinio custom rechargeable hearing aid and the new Infinio Sphere Ultra upgrade. In a discussion at the Phonak booth, Gareth Griffiths, Director of Campaign Management, outlined how these updates build on the company’s ongoing commitment to improving real-world hearing experiences. The newest version of AutoSense OS—version 7.0—was trained on 18 times more environmental data than before, allowing for more accurate sound classification and smoother transitions between listening environments. Griffiths explained that the upgrades deliver improved speech understanding in noise and a more natural listening experience for users in complex soundscapes. Another key focus of the update is ease of use and reliability. Phonak introduced its new EasyGuard ear tip, designed to simplify wax management and provide greater durability, particularly for users with dexterity challenges. Enhancements in battery performance have extended listening time in Sphere mode, while Bluetooth connectivity has been refined for faster pairing and more efficient streaming across devices.Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

At EUHA 2025, Oticon introduced its newest in-the-ear hearing aid, Oticon Zeal, bringing the company’s second-generation AI sound processing and BrainHearing™ technology to a smaller, ready-to-fit form factor. In a discussion at the conference, Anja Nagel L’Harraki, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at Demant, and Ole Asboe Jørgensen, President, Hearing Instrument Group, described Zeal as offering the same audiological performance as Oticon Intent, but in a more compact design.The Zeal features always-on AI-based sound processing, binaural beamforming, and a refined feedback management system that maintains clarity and comfort even with a single-microphone setup. Asboe noted that by positioning the microphone deeper in the ear canal, the design takes advantage of natural pinna cues while minimizing internal reverberation, allowing performance comparable to dual-microphone models. The device can accommodate fittings for mild to moderate hearing loss, offering both same-day fittings with domes or custom earmolds for a more personalized fit.Connectivity was a key focus of the launch. Zeal supports Google Fast Pair for Android devices, enabling quick pairing directly through native phone controls, and is fully compatible with Auracast™ broadcast audio through the Oticon Companion app. According to the team, users with existing Oticon Intent devices can enable Auracast access through a firmware update.In addition to its compact size, Zeal includes rechargeable power, delivering up to 20 hours of use with four hours of streaming. Initial rollout began in Denmark, the U.K., and Switzerland, with U.S. availability expected in early 2026.**Oticon Zeal press release: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearing-technologies/2025/oticon-zeal-hearing-aids-rechargeable-ai/Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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:Website: paulgilbert.comInstagram: @paulgilbert_officialX: @PaulGilbertRockBe sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/Audio podcast can be found on all major platforms, including Apple & Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thisweekinhearing

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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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: Tziridis K, Rasheed J, Kwiatkowska M, Wright M, Schlingensiepen R. A Single Dose of AC102 Reverts Tinnitus by Restoring Ribbon Synapses in Noise-Exposed Mongolian Gerbils. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2025; 26(11):5124. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115124Learn 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.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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.https://x.com/WeekinHearinghttps://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

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/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/WeekinHearinghttps://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearingVisit us at: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/