All Ears Hearing and Tinnitus Podcast

What if the ringing in your ears isn't just coming from your ears? In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett breaks down the groundbreaking science behind the gut-brain-ear axis—a new way of understanding tinnitus that connects your digestive system, your brain, and your auditory pathways. For years, tinnitus has been treated as a purely ear-based condition. But recent studies suggest the story may be far more complex. Emerging research into the gut microbiome shows that certain bacteria may influence inflammation, neurotransmitter production, and even how the brain processes sound. Dr. Garrett explains what scientists are discovering about this connection and why traditional tinnitus treatments often miss the deeper biological mechanisms involved. You'll learn how stress, diet, and gut health could be influencing tinnitus severity—and what practical steps you can take to support a healthier internal environment. From dietary strategies that feed beneficial gut bacteria to the surprising role of the vagus nerve, this conversation explores how improving your gut health might calm your brain's overactivity and help you find more balance with your tinnitus. If you've ever noticed your tinnitus worsening after stress or certain foods, this episode could finally explain why—and give you real, evidence-based tools to start addressing it. For more information visit our online learning center.  

Binaural beats are everywhere online, especially in communities searching for tinnitus relief. You'll see videos promising "miracle cures," audio packs claiming to "retrain your brain," and testimonials that sound almost too good to be true. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett breaks down what binaural beats actually are, how they affect the brain, and why the science doesn't support the claims you've probably seen on YouTube or social media.   We explore what recent studies *do* show — including small trials suggesting short-term reductions in distress — while also examining the limitations that marketers often ignore, such as tiny sample sizes, inconsistent results, and short follow-up periods. Dr. Garrett discusses how these mild effects compare to evidence-based tinnitus treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy, tinnitus retraining therapy, hearing aids, and bimodal neuromodulation.   If you've ever wondered whether binaural beats are worth your time, or you're simply looking for trustworthy tinnitus information without hype, this episode gives you the clarity you've been searching for. To learn more or schedule an appointment in Northern Utah, visit utahhearingaids.com.  

Magnesium is one of the most talked-about supplements in the hearing-loss world, but the claims you see online rarely match what the research actually shows. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett breaks down the real science behind magnesium's role in hearing health—what it helps with, where it falls short, and why timing matters far more than most people realize.   You'll learn why magnesium can protect the inner ear during noise exposure, how military research uncovered its benefits, and why it can support treatment for sudden hearing loss when used within the right medical window. Just as importantly, we explore why magnesium cannot reverse age-related or long-standing hearing loss, despite what many supplement ads suggest.   Dr. Garrett also discusses what *does* make a real difference—starting with a proper hearing evaluation, evidence-based treatment, and REM-verified hearing aid fittings when needed. If you want clarity without hype, this conversation will help you understand where magnesium fits in—and where it doesn't.   To explore more resources or schedule an appointment in Northern Utah, visit utahhearingaids.com.  

CBD has become one of the most talked-about "solutions" for tinnitus—but the reality is far more complicated than the online hype suggests. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett, a tinnitus specialist with more than two decades of experience, breaks down what CBD can and cannot do for people living with tinnitus. You'll learn why CBD exploded in popularity, what the research actually shows, and why some people feel better even though CBD doesn't reduce the sound itself.   We explore the critical difference between *tinnitus volume* and *tinnitus reaction*, how stress and anxiety amplify the experience, and why CBD's calming effects may help some people feel less overwhelmed even if the tinnitus itself doesn't change. Dr. Garrett also discusses evidence-based treatments—like CBT, sound therapy, and REM-verified hearing aid fittings—that consistently help patients regain control and quality of life.   If you've ever wondered whether CBD is worth trying, or you've felt frustrated by the mixed messages online, this episode offers clarity grounded in neuroscience and patient outcomes. And if you're in Northern Utah, you can explore support resources or schedule an appointment anytime at utahhearingaids.com.  

Tinnitus can feel ten times louder at night, especially when the world goes quiet and your brain locks onto the only sound left—the ringing. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett walks through practical, evidence-informed strategies that help people finally get the rest they've been missing. You'll learn why silence magnifies tinnitus, how the stress response fuels sleepless nights, and what you can do to break that cycle using sound therapy, foundational sleep hygiene, and calming techniques that support your nervous system. Dr. Garrett has spent more than two decades helping patients with tinnitus and complex hearing loss, using tools such as TRT, CBT, PTM, bimodal neuromodulation, and REM-verified hearing aid fittings. His clinical approach blends neuroscience, whole-person care, and outcome tracking to give patients clear, manageable next steps. If you'd like to explore more resources or schedule a visit, you can learn more at [https://utahhearingaids.com](https://utahhearingaids.com). Quiet nights are possible, and this episode helps you understand where to begin.  

Modern hearing aids can look similar on the surface, but the technology inside them varies dramatically. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett breaks down the three core pillars that define a truly exceptional hearing aid: the Brain, the Body, and the Bridge. You'll learn how today's AI-driven sound processing improves speech clarity, reduces auditory load, and supports better communication in noisy environments.   We also explore why comfort, durability, and Real-Ear Measurements (REM) are essential for achieving accurate amplification tailored to your hearing loss. Dr. Garrett explains how connectivity features like Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast are shaping the future of hearing technology and why choosing the right device is about far more than marketing claims.   Whether you're new to hearing aids or considering an upgrade, this episode gives you a clear, practical framework for understanding what truly matters. You'll walk away with questions to ask your audiologist, insight into modern devices, and confidence in navigating your hearing care options.   If you're in Northern Utah and want personalized support, visit our learning center at https://utahheringaids.com/learning-center or schedule an appointment anytime at https://utahhearingaids.com   

Can menopause really cause ringing in your ears? In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett explains the surprising connection between hormonal changes and tinnitus — and what you can actually do to calm it down. Many women expect hot flashes and sleep changes during menopause, but not constant ringing or buzzing in their ears. Yet research now shows that estrogen affects more than just your reproductive system — it also influences how your brain processes sound. When hormone levels fluctuate, the auditory system can become hypersensitive, and that's where tinnitus begins. Dr. Garrett breaks down the science in clear, relatable terms, showing how estrogen helps regulate hearing sensitivity, blood flow to the inner ear, and even the brain's "filtering" of background noise. You'll learn why the sound often gets louder under stress and why it's not "all in your head." He also covers the most effective treatment approaches: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): when and how it helps. Sound Therapy and CBT: retraining your brain to ignore tinnitus. Bimodal Neuromodulation (Lenire): how this new FDA-approved therapy is changing treatment options. Lifestyle support: diet, sleep, and stress management that quiet the brain's reactivity. By the end of this episode, you'll understand why tinnitus during menopause is common — and why it's not something you just have to live with. Dr. Garrett's message is simple: your symptoms are real, they're explainable, and there are clear ways to reduce the noise. Take the next step: Learn more at our Learning Center: https://utahhearingaids.com/learning-center/ If you're in Utah County, Salt Lake County, or nearby areas, schedule your appointment online: https://utahhearingaids.com

Most people delay treating hearing loss for 7–10 years, assuming they should wait for the perfect discount or a special promotion. But hearing loss is a health condition, not a retail purchase, and waiting has real consequences for communication, brain function, relationships, and long-term well-being. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett, audiologist and founder of Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus, explains the five clinical signs that signal the right time to treat hearing loss is now. You'll learn how social withdrawal begins, why conversations feel mentally exhausting, how relationships start to strain, and why work performance and safety can be affected long before the hearing loss feels "bad enough." We also break down why so many people feel like "everyone is mumbling," what high-frequency loss does to speech clarity, and how early treatment protects the brain from increased cognitive load. Dr. Garrett also addresses common barriers such as cost, stigma, and unrealistic expectations, explaining what real medical-model hearing care looks like — including follow-up visits, counseling, and Real Ear Measurements. If you've been wondering whether it's time to take the next step, this episode gives you a clear, evidence-based roadmap. Learn More: www.utahhearingaids.com/learning-center If you are in Northern Utah, you can schedule an appointment in our clinic online at www.utahhearingaids.com  

In today's episode, we explore one of the most common questions I hear in clinical practice: why do hearing aids range from a couple hundred dollars to several thousand? And, more importantly, what do these price differences actually mean for real-world communication and hearing clarity? Many people assume all hearing aids work the same and that choosing the cheapest option is the safest place to start. But as evidence suggests, the success of any device depends far more on accurate fitting and verification than on the brand or price tag. We begin by comparing OTC hearing aids with prescription devices and hybrid models that combine online purchasing with remote adjustments. OTC hearing aids can help in limited situations, but without a full diagnostic evaluation and an evidence-based fitting, these devices often amplify sound unevenly. This can increase listening effort and make it harder to follow conversations in background noise. In clinical settings, we see that improper amplification—whether too much or too little—can significantly affect speech clarity and daily comfort. In contrast, professionally fitted hearing aids are selected and programmed based on your individual hearing loss, ear acoustics, and communication goals. A procedure called Real Ear Measurement, or REM, makes a substantial difference here. REM allows us to measure exactly what the hearing aids are delivering at your eardrum, ensuring that the prescription matches your real-world needs. Research indicates that patients who receive verified fittings are more likely to wear their devices consistently and report better communication outcomes. I've spent more than 20 years helping people navigate these decisions at Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus, where our focus is on accurate diagnosis, tinnitus treatment, and best-practice hearing aid fittings. Our clinic has earned more than 14 Best of State awards in Auditory Services, and I've written three books on hearing and tinnitus to help patients understand their options with clarity and confidence. By the end of this conversation, you'll understand why the fitting process matters so much, what questions to ask when comparing hearing aid options, and how to avoid wasting money on devices that don't meet your needs. If you'd like to explore more evidence-based resources, visit our Learning Center at utahhearingaids.com/learning-center. And if you're in Northern Utah, you can schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation at utahhearingaids.com.  

In today's episode, Dr. Layne Garrett takes a clear, evidence-based look at one of the most commonly suggested tinnitus supplements: Ginkgo Biloba. If you've ever searched online for natural tinnitus relief, you've probably seen Ginkgo mentioned again and again. The idea sounds appealing — something simple, over-the-counter, and "natural" that might settle the ringing. But what does the science actually say?   We start by grounding the discussion in what tinnitus is. It isn't a disease itself, but a symptom — often connected to hearing loss, noise exposure, or changes within the auditory system. From there, we look at how Ginkgo Biloba became linked to tinnitus. The supplement has a long history in traditional medicine, and the modern theory suggests improved circulation might influence inner-ear function. However, the logic behind a supplement and the evidence supporting it are often two different things.   Dr. Garrett walks through the highest-quality clinical research, including large randomized trials and systematic reviews. These studies consistently show that Ginkgo performs no better than a placebo for most people with tinnitus. We also talk about the placebo effect itself — why it's strong in tinnitus, and why high-quality trial design matters when we interpret results. There is a brief discussion about EGb 761, a standardized extract that has shown mixed findings in smaller studies, along with important reasons why those results should be interpreted cautiously.   Safety is another key theme. Even though Ginkgo is widely available, it isn't risk-free. Potential interactions with blood thinners and other medications mean it deserves the same respectful caution as any therapeutic product.   Finally, we shift to what *does* have stronger support in the tinnitus world — approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, sound therapy, and new forms of neuromodulation. None are magic solutions, but they offer a more reliable path forward than supplements with inconsistent evidence.   If you've wondered whether Ginkgo is worth trying or if you're sorting through conflicting information online, this episode aims to simplify the science and help you make informed decisions about your tinnitus care. Learn More in our Online Learning Center at www.utahhearingaids.com/learning-center  

When hearing loss enters a relationship, both people feel it. One partner struggles to hear. The other repeats, rephrases, and slowly loses patience. Over time, the conversations shrink, the laughter fades, and both partners begin to feel alone. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett, board-certified Doctor of Audiology, explores how hearing loss in relationshipsquietly affects communication, mental health, and emotional connection. Drawing on research about third-party disability, he explains why the hearing partner often feels more exhausted than the one who can't hear. You'll also hear about communication fatigue — the constant mental effort required to fill in missing words, guess context, and carry the weight of two conversations at once. Dr. Garrett shares practical insights from real couples and explains how these patterns create emotional distance if left untreated. But there's hope. Modern hearing aids are nothing like the bulky, squealing devices of decades past. Today's hearing technology is discreet, often AI-powered, and built to reconnect couples in ways that go far beyond sound quality. When one partner begins hearing clearly again, connection and calm often follow. Whether you're the one struggling to hear or the one feeling unheard, this episode will help you see hearing loss not as an annoyance but as a solvable, shared challenge. Listen to learn: Why untreated hearing loss affects both partners, not just one The emotional and cognitive signs of communication fatigue How modern hearing care restores connection and reduces resentment A simple, honest way to start the conversation without conflict Take the next step: Visit utahhearingaids.com to schedule an appointment or explore free educational resources in the Learning Center at utahhearingaids.com/learning-center Because better hearing doesn't just restore sound — it restores relationships.

When should you not buy hearing aids? It's not the kind of question you expect from an audiologist—but that's exactly why it matters. In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett shares three real patient stories that reveal when saying no to hearing aids is the best hearing care decision. From medical red flags to motivation problems and unrealistic expectations, he explains why ethical hearing care starts with understanding, not sales. You'll meet: Mark, whose sudden hearing loss was actually caused by a middle ear infection. Susan, a high-performing executive who thought a cheap hearing aid could solve her speech-in-noise issues. George, an older patient who simply wasn't ready to hear better—until motivation caught up months later. Each story underscores one key truth: Hearing technology only works when it's addressing the right problem. Dr. Garrett also unpacks the difference between temporary and permanent hearing loss, how to spot medical warning signs before investing in devices, and why "buying hearing aids" isn't always the first—or even the right—step toward better hearing. Whether you're an adult noticing subtle changes, a family member helping a loved one, or just curious about how hearing aids really work, this episode gives you the insight you need to make smart, pressure-free decisions. Explore more expert insights: 🎧 Visit the Learning Center for free hearing guides → https://utahhearingaids.com/learning-center/ 📅 Schedule a personalized, no-pressure hearing evaluation → https://utahhearingaids.com Because good hearing care starts with honesty, not sales.

Have you ever been told a hearing aid will "solve" your tinnitus—only to find the ringing is still there? If so, you're not alone. I'm Dr. Layne Garrett, audiologist and founder of **Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus in American Fork, Utah.** For over 20 years, I've worked with patients across **Spanish Fork, Lehi, Provo, and Utah County** who were frustrated after being offered quick fixes instead of real solutions. The truth is simple: tinnitus isn't just an ear problem—it's a brain and nervous system problem. That's why many people who buy hearing aids still struggle with ringing, anxiety, or sleepless nights. In this episode of All Ears: The Hearing & Tinnitus Podcast, I'll share the 5 signs of a true tinnitus specialist so you can spot the difference between a basic hearing clinic and a genuine specialty center. Here's what you'll learn: 1. Why **advanced credentials** like the CH-TM matter. 2. How a real clinic uses a **full toolbox of treatments**—TRT, CBT, Lenire, PTM, and more. 3. Why **objective tracking** like HRV can measure progress beyond "How do you feel?" 4. The importance of **whole-person care**—addressing sleep, stress, diet, and daily habits. 5. What **patient-centered practice** looks like (and why rushed appointments miss the mark). If you're in Utah County and looking for tinnitus relief, this episode will help you know exactly what to ask before you commit to care For more resources, visit our **Learning Center**: utahhearingaids.com/learning-center/ And if you're ready for specialty care, visit us at: https://utahhearingaids.com/ Subscribe, share, and remember—you don't have to "just live with it." ## 🔑 **Keywords for SEO** tinnitus specialist Utah, tinnitus treatment American Fork, CH-TM audiologist, Spanish Fork tinnitus care, Utah County hearing aids, tinnitus retraining therapy Utah, CBT for tinnitus, Lenire Utah, objective tinnitus tracking ## 🏷 **Suggested Podcast Tags (6–12)**   \#TinnitusRelief #UtahHearing #HearingHealth #Audiologist #AmericanFork #SpanishFork #UtahCounty #HearingAids #TinnitusCare #AllEarsPodcast  

Starkey is calling their new Omega AI a "healthable"—promising not just better hearing, but comprehensive health tracking with respiratory monitoring, fall detection, and 51-hour battery life. But as an audiologist who's seen countless "revolutionary" launches, I wanted to cut through the marketing and give you the real story. In this first look, I break down what's genuinely new about the Omega AI, what's just repackaged from previous models, and whether the technology actually solves the problems my patients complain about most. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: 📥 Download FREE Hearing Aid Buyer's Guide: https://BestHearingAidReport.com 📚 Visit Our Learning Center (Videos, Articles, Expert Guides): https://utahhearingaids.com/learning-center/ 📖 Read the Full Blog Article: [BLOG ARTICLE LINK - Starkey Omega AI First Look] 📅 Schedule Your Consultation: https://utahhearingaids.com ABOUT DR. LAYNE GARRETT: Dr. Layne Garrett is a Doctor of Audiology with over 10 years of clinical experience and founder of Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus, a 14-time Best of State Winner in Auditory Services. He has mild hearing loss himself and personally tests every hearing aid and technology he reviews. His clinic specializes in comprehensive hearing care, FDA-approved Lenire tinnitus treatment, and Real Ear Measurement fitting—the gold standard protocol used on every patient. If you found this episode valuable, please leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform—it helps other people discover evidence-based hearing health information. Share this episode with someone who's been told "just live with it" by another provider. Everyone deserves to know their options. #HearingLoss #Tinnitus #HearingHealth #HearingAids #Audiology #StarkeyOmegaAI #Podcast #BetterHearing #HealthTechnology    

Sudden hearing loss can feel like the world goes quiet overnight. Many people search for answers and quickly come across hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)—a treatment that promises to restore hearing by flooding the body with pure oxygen under pressure. But does it really work? In this episode, Dr. Layne Garrett breaks down the facts, the data, and the controversy around HBOT for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). You'll learn why this type of hearing loss is a medical emergency, how oxygen affects the delicate inner-ear structures, and what the newest 2025 research reveals about outcomes when HBOT is used alongside steroids. We'll cover: • What "sudden" sensorineural hearing loss really means and how it differs from gradual loss • The science behind HBOT—how pressure changes oxygen delivery in damaged tissue • Why starting treatment early makes such a dramatic difference in recovery • Who tends to benefit most and who may not see improvement • Safety considerations and realistic expectations for HBOT results Dr. Garrett also shares a crucial reminder: the first call should always be to a qualified hearing specialist or ENT.Early evaluation opens the door to every available option, from corticosteroids to oxygen therapy and beyond. If you've ever wondered whether hyperbaric oxygen is a miracle, a myth, or simply another medical tool, this episode gives you the clear, evidence-driven answers you need—without hype or false hope. To explore more expert guides and hearing-health insights, visit: https://utahhearingaids.com/learning-center/

If you've ever wondered whether hearing aids could actually make your tinnitus worse, this episode is for you. Audiologist Dr. Layne Garrett dives into one of the most common fears people have when they first consider hearing aids for tinnitus—and explains why the reality is far more reassuring than the myth. In this clear, compassionate breakdown, Dr. Garrett shares the real science and clinical experience behind tinnitus relief through properly fitted hearing aids. He tells the story of Sam, a retired pilot who came in convinced his hearing aids were making things worse, and how a few precise adjustments completely changed his experience. Through that story, Dr. Garrett highlights the importance of real-ear measurements, personalized fitting, and patience during the adjustment period. You'll also learn the key mistakes that can make tinnitus seem worse temporarily—like over-amplification, poor fit, and the wrong type of device—and how a qualified audiologist can quickly fix them. More importantly, Dr. Garrett explains how hearing aids can actually help quiet tinnitus through sound enrichment, brain recalibration, and reduced listening fatigue. Toward the end of the episode, Dr. Garrett outlines a comprehensive tinnitus management strategy that combines properly verified hearing aids with sound therapy, cognitive behavioral techniques, and advanced technologies like Lenire® bimodal neuromodulation. The focus is always on retraining the brain to respond differently to tinnitus—helping listeners reduce its impact and regain control of their lives. Whether you're just beginning to explore hearing aids or you've tried them before without success, this episode will help you understand what's possible when tinnitus care is done the right way. Relief is not only possible—it's common with the right guidance and persistence. If you're in Utah and ready to take the next step toward tinnitus relief, schedule your appointment online athttps://utahhearingaids.com

Struggling to hear in restaurants, at family gatherings, or in church? You're not alone. Many people in Utah County describe the same experience: nodding along in noisy places, pretending to follow the conversation, while secretly feeling left out. In this episode of All Ears: The Hearing & Tinnitus Podcast, Dr. Layne Garrett—founder of Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus in American Fork, Utah—explains why background noise makes hearing so difficult, and what you can do to fix it. Here's what you'll learn: Why hearing in noise isn't just about volume How tiny ear hair cells affect speech clarity The role your brain plays in filtering voices Why "listening fatigue" is so draining How today's hearing aids reduce 30–50% of background noise How auditory training programs retrain your brain for clearer listening You'll also hear a real-life patient story about "Mark," who felt like he was behind glass at family dinners—until the right hearing technology and brain training gave him his confidence back. If you're in American Fork, Spanish Fork, or anywhere in Utah County, this episode is for you. Hearing in noise is not just about ears—it's about your brain, your energy, and your connections with the people who matter most. 📌 Next Steps: Explore free resources: utahhearingaids.com/learning-center Schedule your appointment: utahhearingaids.com Subscribe today so you don't miss future episodes on hearing health, tinnitus, and practical solutions for everyday listening.  

Are you trying to decide between the Oticon Intent and the Widex Allure? You're not alone — these two premium hearing aids are among the most talked-about devices in 2025, and for good reason. But here's the catch: they take very different approaches to solving the same challenge — helping you hear better.   In this episode of All Ears: The Hearing & Tinnitus Podcast, Dr. Layne Garrett of Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus in American Fork, Utah compares Oticon and Widex side by side. Because our clinic fits both every week, you'll hear not just the brochure talk — but the real-world differences we see with patients across Utah County.  Here's what we cover:  Two Philsophies: Oticon's BrainHearing™ vs. Widex's PureSound™ Technology deep dive: AI sound mapping vs. lightning-fast processing Restaurant test: clarity-focused vs. natural immersive hearing Connectivity: Auracast readiness, Bluetooth streaming, and app personalization Design & comfort: discreet fit, battery life, and Widex's Charge N Clean system Who each is for: Which patients thrive with Oticon and which love Widex  👉 If your biggest battle is hearing in noisy places, the Oticon Intent may be your best ally. 👉 If you're a musician, audiophile, or want the most natural sound possible, Widex Allure may be the better match.  The bottom line? There's no universal "best" hearing aid — only the best one for *your ears, your brain, and your lifestyle.* That's why at Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus, you can test both side by side before making your decision.  📖 For a deeper dive, download our free guide to the Best Hearing Aids of 2025 in our Learning Center 📍 If you're in Northern Utah or Utah County, schedule your Better Hearing Consultation today: 

Many people are told that tinnitus therapies like TRT (Tinnitus Retraining Therapy) or CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) can help retrain the brain and reduce the burden of ringing in the ears. But what happens when you've tried these approaches and they don't work? In this episode of All Ears: The Hearing & Tinnitus Podcast, Dr. Layne Garrett, audiologist at Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus in American Fork, Utah, breaks down: How TRT and CBT are designed to help tinnitus patients The 4 most common reasons these therapies fail Why personalization is key to success How new technology like the FDA-approved Lenire device is giving fresh hope to patients in Utah County If you've tried tinnitus therapy and still feel stuck, it's not your fault. The ringing is real, but so are the solutions. 👉 Schedule a free consultation at utahhearingaids.com 👉 Explore our Learning Center for guides & resources: utahhearingaids.com/learning-center