Hear Us Out

Is hearing loss simply the price musicians have to pay for a lifetime of making music? Not necessarily.

In this episode of Hear Us Out, Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter welcome music audiologist Dr. Frank Wartinger for a conversation about hearing health, music, and why protecting your ears doesn't have to mean sacrificing the sound you love.

From rehearsals and recording studios to live performances, musicians face unique listening challenges. But hearing loss isn't necessarily an inevitable consequence of a career in music.

Frank shares his perspective on the importance of...

What happens when the world knows your voice before you've fully discovered who you are?

David Archuleta captured millions of hearts as a teenager on American Idol, but his journey since then has been about much more than music. From navigating fame at a young age to finding the courage to live authentically, David has continued to evolve as both an artist and a person.

In this episode of Hear Us Out, Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter sit down with David for a conversation about the power of music, the pressures of public...

Can artificial intelligence help us hear better? Why does the size of a hearing aid matter? And what does it really take to understand speech in a noisy restaurant?

On this episode of Hear Us Out, Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter welcome Dr. Laurel Christensen, a leading expert in hearing science and hearing aid innovation, for a fascinating look at the technology changing how we hear.

Together, they explore the growing role of AI in hearing aids, why smaller devices present unique engineering challenges, and how directional microphones and beamforming technology help listeners...

What makes a vintage guitar truly special? Is it the sound, the history, the musician who played it, or the story of the person who owned it?

On this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Trevor Boone of Seattle’s Emerald City Guitars to explore the fascinating world of vintage guitars, legendary gear, and the stories that make certain instruments unforgettable. Raised in a household where music was always playing and guitars were never far away, Trevor grew up immersed in his father’s guitar shop before finding his own path in the music busi...

Olivia Valli grew up surrounded by music and with a last name that carries an unmistakable legacy—but her career has been about finding a voice and path of her own.

In this episode of Hear Us Out, Olivia joins Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter for a candid conversation about growing up in a legendary musical family, pursuing a career in theatre, and navigating the assumptions that can come with being Frankie Valli’s granddaughter.

Olivia discusses the complicated conversation around nepotism, the opportunities and pressures that come with her family name, and the...

What if you could actually see music? Artist Sarah Kraning experiences sound in a way most of us can only imagine: through her synesthesia, music and other sounds can appear as colors, textures, patterns, and movement. She has transformed these unique sensory experiences into a career creating vibrant artwork inspired by the sounds she hears.

In this episode of Hear Us Out, Sarah takes us inside her world of sound and color. She explains what it’s like to experience music visually, how she translates what she hears into art, and how synesthesia has shaped th...

What does a Tony Award-winning sound designer actually do? Kai Harada joins Hear Us Out to take us behind the scenes of Broadway's biggest productions, including his 2026 Tony Award winning work on Ragtime. He shares how sound design shapes an audience's emotional experience, the art and science of mixing live theater, collaborating with directors and performers, and why the best sound design often goes unnoticed.

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In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Jonathan Solars, a musician and expert in the world of stringed instruments, to explore the fascinating art and science of violin restoration.

As audiologists, we spend much of our time thinking about how people hear sound. Jonathan approaches that same experience from the other side: how sound is created in the first place. We discuss what gives a violin its unique voice, how wood, design, craftsmanship, and restoration influence the way an instrument sounds, and why two seemingly identical instruments can sound remarkably different. Jonathan takes us...

On this episode of Hear Us Out, we're joined by Broadway actor Lencia Kebede, who made history as the first Black actress to play Elphaba full-time on Broadway in Wicked. Before taking the stage at the Gershwin Theatre, Lencia spent multiple transformative years touring with Hamilton playing Angelica Schuyler, a role she now plays on Broadway.

Lencia takes us on her journey from Hamilton to Wicked and back to Hamilton, sharing what it's like to inhabit these powerhouse characters, how she approaches the vocal and physical demands of Broadway, and what she's learned about finding her own...

In this special crossover episode, with the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ophthalmologist, Dr. Deepak Ramesh sits down with Dr. Sandler and Dr. Schechter to dive into questions about ototoxicity, hearing testing, and interpreting audiograms. Dr. Ramesh guides the conversation, asking the questions listeners most want answered, while the experts explain how medications and treatments can affect hearing, what an audiogram reveals, and how to understand hearing test results.

Whether you’re a professional, patient, caregiver, or just curious about ear health, this episode offers practical guidance, clear explanations, and expert insights to help yo...

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Israeli singer-songwriter Rami Feinstein for an intimate conversation about emotional honesty, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to write from the heart. Rami shares how his cultural background and experiences shape his music, and how he approaches songwriting as a way of telling the truth—capturing feelings that are often difficult to name and turning them into songs that resonate deeply.

We dive into trusting your instincts as an artist, navigating self-doubt, and letting emotion guide the creative process. From finding your voice to staying open in a...

On this week's episode of Hear Us Out, we're joined by Pete Dankelson-musician, content creator, and the man behind Pete's Diary. Pete has built a community by sharing his journey with hearing loss, music, and resilience, using honesty, humor, and creativity to connect with millions of people navigating their own challenges. Pete opens up about growing up with Goldenhar syndrome, discovering music as a source of confidence and connection, and turning life's obstacles into opportunities to inspire others. We also discuss the relationship between hearing and music, the power of social media to build meaningful connections, and why authenticity...

On this episode of Hear Us Out we're speaking with music director, conductor, and pianist Kerianne Brennan, whose work is helping shape the sound of modern musical theater. Kerianne is the Associate Music Director for SIX on Broadway and previously served as Associate Conductor for the national tours of SIX and SUFFS. In this episode, Kerianne takes us behind the conductor's podium to explore what it really takes to lead a Broadway musical. We discuss the unique challenges of conducting from the pit, how technology has transformed live theater, the collaboration between performers and musicians, and why every performance...

Musicians depend on their ears-but how do they protect them? Music audiologist Dr. Heather Malyuk joins Hear Us Out to explore the specialized world of hearing care for performers. From custom hearing protection and in-ear monitors to tinnitus, sound sensitivity, and the unique listening demands of professional musicians, Dr. Malyuk explains how artists can safeguard their hearing without compromising their craft. What makes her perspective especially unique is that she isn't just an audiologist studying music from the outside: she's a lifelong musician herself, giving her a firsthand understanding of the listening demands, challenges, and passion that come with...

What does it really mean to listen?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we welcome three-time Grammy Award-winning musician, composer, educator, producer, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Jeff Coffin. Best known for his work with the Dave Matthews Band and Béla Fleck & the Flecktones, Jeff has spent decades redefining what it means to create, perform, and connect through music.

Our conversation begins with a question at the heart of this podcast: Where do the art and science of sound meet? From there, we explore why listening is one of the most i...

What does it take to make the biggest tour in the world sound flawless night after night?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we go behind the scenes with drum technician Jeff Brown, who worked on the record-breaking Eras Tour, to explore the hidden world of live sound at the highest level of performance.

From drum setup and tuning to managing consistency across massive stadium shows, Jeff shares what it takes to support world-class musicians on tour. We dive into the realities of live performance, how sound is controlled in unpredictable environments, and the...

This week on Hear Us Out we're joined by the Sirens of Just in Time--Julia Grondin, Christine Cornish, and Jessica White-for an engaging conversation about bringing one of Broadway's most exciting musicals to life.

These three performers take us behind the scenes of creating the Sirens' signature sound, blending their voices into seamless harmony while honoring the timeless music that defines the show. They share their journeys to Broadway, the friendships they've built backstage, and what audiences don't see once the curtain goes up. Their genuine friendship and effortless chemistry shine throughout the conversation as they reflect...

What if most of what you hear in movies isn’t real?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Foley mixer Aran Tanchum to explore the hidden world of sound design in film and television. From footsteps and clothing movement to the subtle sounds that make scenes feel real, Foley artists with the assistance of Foley mixer's (the recording engineer) create the everyday noises our brains rely on to believe what we’re seeing.

We dive into how sound is built from scratch, why our brains accept artificial audio as reality, and...

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with the Season 7 American Idol winner, platinum-selling recording artist, and Broadway performer to reflect on his journey through the music industry. David looks back on his time on American Idol, discusses how his career has evolved since the show, and shares the differences between performing with a full band and taking the stage as a solo artist. We also explore his experience on Broadway, the importance of listening as both an artist and a person, and the moments that have shaped him throughout his career.

Whether you've...

This week on Hear Us Out, we're joined by Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award nominee Matthew Morrison. Known to many as Will Schuester on Glee, Matthew is also an accomplished Broadway performer who recently returned to the stage as Bobby Darin in Just in Time. In this episode, we discuss his return to Broadway and his musical theater roots, reflect on the lasting impact Glee has had on his life and career, explore the unique connection that forms between performers and live audiences, and talk about how becoming a father has reshaped both his outlook on life and...

Tony Award-winning actress Lauren Patten joins Hear Us Out to discuss her remarkable career on stage and screen, from her breakout performance as Jo in Jagged Little Pillto her starring role in the Tony Award-nominated play Becky Shaw. Lauren reflects on the artistry behind moving between musicals and straight plays, the importance of vulnerability in performance, and how she prepares to tell deeply human stories. She also shares insights into the role that sound, listening, and communication play in live theater, the challenges and rewards of sustaining a demanding performance schedule, and what continues to inspire her as an...

What makes a performance feel real?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Edwin McCain to explore the emotion, imperfection, and humanity behind great music. Best known for timeless songs like “I’ll Be” and “I Could Not Ask for More,” Edwin shares stories from the studio, why first takes often capture something magic, and how authenticity connects artists and audiences on a deeper level.

We dive into songwriting, recording, live performance, and the emotional power of sound; all through the lens of an artist whose music has soundtracked countless lives and memori...

Singer-songwriter Howie Day has spent more than two decades creating music that resonates deeply with listeners around the world. Best known for the multi-platinum hit "Collide," Howie's songs have become part of the soundtrack to countless memories, relationships, and life moments.

In this episode of Hear Us Out, hosts Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter explore the role of sound in songwriting, the emotional connection between artists and audiences, and why certain songs stay with us long after we've heard them. Howie reflects on his creative process, the stories behind his music, and what it means...

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we welcome acclaimed musicians Dave Eggar, Tasha Warren, and Phil Faconti to discuss their powerful new project, Motherload.

The trio takes us behind the scenes of the album's creation, sharing how their diverse musical backgrounds came together to shape a sound that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. We explore the creative process, the importance of collaboration, and how music can serve as a vehicle for storytelling, connection, and healing.

Along the way, Dave, Tasha, and Phil reflect on the role of listening in their artistry, the...

What does it take to create harmony that moves millions of people?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Ben Bram; the Grammy-winning arranger, producer, and longtime creative force behind Pentatonix. Ben shares the story behind shaping one of the most recognizable vocal sounds in modern music, from intricate harmonies and vocal production to the emotional impact of the human voice.

We explore the creative process behind Pentatonix’s groundbreaking arrangements, the evolution of a cappella in mainstream music, and what it means to build sound that feels deeply human. Ben al...

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Brad Cohen, Mayor of East Brunswick and Congressional candidate, for a conversation about leadership, community, and the challenges of public service. Brad shares what it’s like to lead at the local level, the lessons he’s learned from governing, and how those experiences shape his vision for representing his community on a national stage.

We dive into the realities of politics—balancing constituent needs, making tough decisions, and staying grounded while navigating a complex system. From city hall to the campaign trail, Brad offers an honest...

In this episode, we speak with Richard Pocker, author, and someone who has personally navigated life with deafness and cochlear implants.

Richard shares his own journey; the challenges of hearing loss, the decision to pursue cochlear implants, and what it feels like to reconnect with sound in profound and sometimes surprising ways. We dive into the technology, yes, but also the human side: the emotions, the adaptations, and the ways it reshapes identity, communication, and connection.

This is a conversation about resilience, discovery, and the transformative power of hearing and a reminder that technology can...

What makes a live performance feel human? This week on Hear Us Out, we sit down with acclaimed audio engineer and producer Josh Rogosin, the creative force behind the sound of NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts and the founder of Global Sound Concerts. After engineering more than 800 Tiny Desk performances, Josh is now traveling the world capturing artists in meaningful spaces — recording raw, intimate performances that connect music, culture, and place.

In this conversation, Josh takes us behind the scenes of Tiny Desk, explains why the room itself becomes part of the music, and shares how his phil...

Why do certain voices stay with us long after the song ends?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with singer-songwriter Sahara Moon for a powerful conversation about music, identity, and the emotional impact of sound. Together, we explore what makes a voice feel authentic, how vulnerability shapes songwriting, and why some sounds connect with us on a deeper level.

Sahara shares her creative process, from finding her voice as an artist to using music as a form of expression and connection. We dive into how emotion, tone, and delivery influence the...

In this episode, we sit down with Lily Vakili—a singer-songwriter known for her raw honesty, powerful vocals, and genre-blending sound. Lily opens up about her creative process, the stories behind her music, and the personal experiences that shape her songwriting.

We dive into the realities of building a career as an independent artist, the challenges of staying authentic in a fast-moving industry, and what continues to inspire her to create. From the road to the studio, Lily shares candid insights, hard-earned lessons, and a few moments that changed everything.

Whether you’re a fan of h...

What makes a voice truly connect—and why do some performances stay with us long after the curtain falls?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Broadway star Carrie St. Louis to explore the emotional and human side of singing, storytelling, and sound. From the demands of live theater to the intimacy of vocal performance, Carrie shares how she approaches using her voice not just as an instrument, but as a way to communicate something deeper.

We talk about how subtle shifts in tone, breath, and phrasing can transform a moment on...

Step into the world of Broadway with Gabrielle Carrubba, known for her heartfelt portrayal of Zoe Murphy in Dear Evan Hansen. In this episode, Gabrielle shares what it was like stepping into the iconic role after understudying it, ultimately making her Broadway debut as Zoe and bringing her own voice to a story that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

We also dive into her dynamic range as a performer. From starring as Shelley Parker in Bat Boy the Musical at Lincoln Center to her current role as a standby for Connie Francis in Just...

How do we hear music and why do certain songs create such a powerful emotional response?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Glen Phillips, lead singer of Toad the Wet Sprocket, for an in-depth conversation on music, hearing, and the science of sound perception.

We explore how musicians listen differently, what makes a song emotionally impactful, and how elements like pitch, tone, and vocal delivery shape the way we experience music. Glen shares insights from his decades-long career as a songwriter and performer, offering a unique perspective on how sound co...

The curtain is up! This week, Cecelia Trippiedi of Heathers Off Broadway production, joins us to talk all things theater—from auditions and rehearsals to the thrill of live performance. She shares behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned in the industry, and what makes Off Broadway such a powerful creative space. If you love the stage, this one’s for you.

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What does it mean to feel—and how does sound help us get there?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Claire Kwon, star of Maybe Happy Ending, on broadway, to explore how music and sound shape emotion, memory, and connection. Through the lens of a show that blurs the line between technology and humanity, Claire shares how she approaches storytelling in a way that feels deeply human—even when the characters themselves are not.

We talk about the role of voice in performance, how subtle shifts in sound can change the...

In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Becraft to talk about her journey from performing as a dancer for the Brooklyn Nets to building a powerful presence as a content creator on Instagram and TikTok.

Melissa shares what it was really like dancing on an NBA stage, the discipline and mindset required to perform at that level, and the identity shift that came when that chapter ended. We dive into how she pivoted from arena lights to ring lights; transforming her performance skills into a personal brand and growing a loyal following online.

This...

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Haley Bennett, Broadway conductor extraordinaire, to go behind the scenes of life in the orchestra pit. Haley shares what it’s like to lead a Broadway orchestra, collaborate with performers and directors, and bring a musical production to life night after night.

From interpreting complex scores to keeping every performance in perfect sync, Haley offers a fascinating look at the precision, artistry, and passion that goes into conducting for Broadway. Whether you’re a theatre fan, a musician, or just curious about the work that happens behind...

In this episode, we sit down with trumpeter, vocalist, and bandleader Jon Lampley—known for lighting up stages with O.A.R., co-founding the genre-blending band Huntertones, and performing as part of the house band on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

Jon shares the story behind his musical journey, from early influences and the grind of the practice room to touring the world and performing on some of the biggest stages in music and television. We talk about the craft of developing your sound, the discipline it takes to grow as a musician, and what it me...

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by music director Jason Aron, whose career spans Pop music, and high-profile live productions. Most recently, Jason has worked extensively with the Jonas Brothers and directed the Back in Time documentary, bringing his signature musical expertise to both iconic pop projects and compelling storytelling on screen.

Jason takes us behind the scenes of music direction—what it’s like collaborating with top artists, creating performances that resonate with audiences, and navigating the creative process from rehearsal to live show. Whether you’re a musician, a theatre fan, or just...

On this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Broadway powerhouse Jasmine Forsberg, who is currently lighting up the stage in the hit musical Six on Broadway.

Jasmine takes us behind the crown to talk about what it’s really like performing in one of Broadway’s most electrifying shows. From the journey that led her to Six, to the energy of performing for packed audiences night after night, she shares stories from backstage, lessons from her career, and what it means to be part of a show that’s redefining musical theater.

We also...