The Total Hearing Care Difference

What Are Some Common Auditory Issues That Get Referred To A Physician?

When should an audiologist send you to a physician, and what happens next? We dive into two middle ear conditions that often sit at the crossroads between audiology and surgical care: otosclerosis and cholesteatoma. One tends to move slowly and allows space for thoughtful decisions; the other can quietly erode tissue and demands swift action. By the end, you’ll understand the warning signs, the tests that raise red flags, and the treatment paths that protect your hearing and your health.

We...

Let’s Learn About Earwax 101

Think earwax is just gunk to wipe away? We break down the surprising science behind this natural defense system and share practical ways to keep your ears clear without risking irritation, impaction, or hearing loss. With Dr. Jill Copley in the studio, we unpack why some people produce dry, flaky wax and others battle sticky buildup, how ear hair and canal shape affect clearance, and what that “underwater” feeling might really mean.

We get specific about home care: when warm water irrigation can help, how hydrogen peroxide drops soften...

What Are Some Common Auditory Issues That Get Referred To A Physician?

Your ear shouldn’t roar, spin, or suddenly go quiet—and when it does, minutes matter. We break down the exact signs that a hearing or balance problem needs a physician, not just a tune-up, and share how fast action can protect your long-term hearing and health.

We start by clarifying where audiologists shine—testing, diagnosing hearing patterns, spotting middle ear problems—and where medical partners must step in. You’ll hear why dizziness and vertigo are never “normal,” how Meniere’s disease, labyr...

What Are Custom Ear Molds, And Who Needs Them?

The sounds you love shouldn’t cost you the hearing you need. We sit down with Dr. Jill Copley to unpack the world of custom ear molds—what they are, how they’re made, and why they can transform comfort and protection for everyday life. From curvy ear canals and slipping hearing aids to roaring concerts, noisy work sites, pool days, and sleepless nights, we map the right solution to the right problem so you can hear smarter, not louder.

We start with the impres...

How Does Noise Exposure Affect Hearing Over Time?

Your ears remember every loud moment, even when you don’t. We sit down with Dr. Jill Copley to unpack how everyday noise—concerts, stadiums, power tools, and sudden blasts—silently chips away at hearing and why prevention is the most powerful tool you have. From OSHA’s adult exposure limits to the lower safe levels for children, we sort out what the numbers really mean and why some people experience damage even at so-called safe volumes.

Together, we map the physical story inside the ear: hai...

Who Is Eligible For Cochlear Implants And What Are The Main Differences In How It Works For Kids Vs. Adults? 

Ever wondered if cochlear implants are only for certain age groups? Dr. Jill Copley shatters this misconception, revealing how these remarkable devices can transform hearing abilities for patients from 9 months to well into their 90s.

This eye-opening conversation explores the comprehensive eligibility criteria for cochlear implants, which goes beyond age to include hearing loss severity, speech understanding capabilities, and anatomical considerations. Dr. Copley walks us through the process of determining candidacy, emphasizing that h...

What Are Cochlear Implants And How Do They Work?

When traditional hearing aids aren't enough, cochlear implants offer renewed hope. Dr. Jill Copley takes us deep into the fascinating world of this life-changing technology that's been transforming lives since the 1970s.

Cochlear implants represent a fundamentally different approach to treating hearing loss. Unlike conventional hearing aids that amplify sound through the natural hearing pathway, these remarkable devices bypass damaged parts of the inner ear entirely. Dr. Copley expertly breaks down how surgeons implant a small electrode array into the cochlea, creating a direct...

How Does Hearing Loss Impact Brain Health And Cognition?

Your brain and ears share a remarkable relationship that goes far beyond simple sound perception. In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Jill Copley reveals the powerful connection between hearing health and cognitive function that could change how you think about those missed conversations.

Did you know that untreated hearing loss actually causes parts of your brain to atrophy and shrink? Dr. Copley walks us through fascinating research showing how hearing difficulties force your brain to work harder (called cognitive load), potentially accelerating memory problems and...

How Does Bluetooth Technology Improve Hearing Aid Functionality?

Bluetooth technology has revolutionized hearing aids from simple amplifiers into sophisticated communication hubs. Dr. Jill Copley reveals how this wireless connectivity addresses two of the biggest challenges for people with hearing loss: phone calls and television watching.

We dive deep into how direct audio streaming creates an entirely new listening experience. When sound travels directly into your hearing instruments instead of through the air, it bypasses room acoustics, background noise, and distance limitations that typically degrade sound quality. The result? Dramatically improved speech clarity and...

How Would You Treat Musicians With Hearing Loss - Featuring: Dr. Matt Webster

Your ears are your most valuable instrument. For musicians, hearing loss isn't just inconvenient—it threatens careers and artistic expression. Dr. Matt Webster dives deep into the specialized world of hearing care for performers, where standard solutions often fall short.

We begin by exploring prevention strategies that preserve musicians' remaining hearing. Unlike ordinary foam earplugs, custom musicians' earplugs with specialized filters maintain sound clarity while reducing volume. These passive devices allow performers to monitor themselves naturally while preventing further damage—prot...

Dizziness And How It’s Related To Hearing Loss - Featuring: Dr. Jill Copley

Ever felt unsteady on your feet and dismissed it as just getting older? That lightheaded feeling might actually be your ears sending you an urgent message. Our fascinating exploration into the hidden connection between hearing loss and balance reveals startling facts that could change how you think about your ear health.

Dr. Jill Copley breaks down the science behind this crucial relationship, explaining how the vestibular system (responsible for balance) sits right next to the auditory system in your ea...

What is Ototoxic Medication? 

Could your medicine cabinet be harming your hearing? That's the critical question we explore in this eye-opening discussion about ototoxic medications with audiologist Dr. Jill Copley.

Many people are unaware that common medications—from everyday pain relievers to life-saving antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs—can potentially damage hearing. Dr. Copley breaks down the science behind this phenomenon, explaining that "oto" refers to the ear while "toxic" means poisonous. These medications, while treating various conditions, may inadvertently harm the delicate structures responsible for hearing and balance.

We dive deep into...

What’s The Difference Between Over-the-counter And Prescription Hearing Aids? 

Choosing the right hearing aid can transform your quality of life, but navigating the sea of options between over-the-counter and prescription devices can feel overwhelming. Dr. Jill Copley breaks down this complex decision with clarity and expertise in our latest episode.

We start by exploring the history behind OTC hearing aids—a well-intentioned government initiative to increase hearing solution accessibility. While these devices serve adults with mild to moderate hearing loss who might hesitate at higher costs, they function primarily as simple amplification tools...

How Often Should I Get My Hearing Tested? How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?

Wondering how often you should get your hearing checked? Curious about maximizing the lifespan of hearing aids? We tackle these essential questions in our latest episode with Dr. Jill Copley, who brings clarity to hearing health maintenance schedules.

Most people don't realize that hearing tests follow different timelines depending on your life stage. While children receive regular screenings, adults often navigate without clear guidance. Dr. Copley recommends everyone get a baseline test at age 50, followed by evaluations every 2-3...

What Is An Audiologist and What Education Do They Have?

The credentials behind your hearing healthcare provider matter more than you might think. Dr. Jill Copley reveals the significant differences between audiologists and hearing aid dispensers that could transform your hearing health journey.

Audiologists bring doctoral-level expertise to hearing care, completing extensive education that prepares them to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of hearing and balance disorders. Unlike hearing instrument specialists, audiologists can perform specialized diagnostic testing that identifies conditions requiring medical intervention, collaborate with ENT physicians, conduct balance assessments, and safely...

Advancements In Hearing Technology

Hearing technology has undergone a dramatic transformation, evolving from simple amplification devices to sophisticated wearable tech that connects seamlessly with our digital lives. Dr. Paige Gainey takes us on a fascinating journey through the cutting-edge innovations reshaping how we think about hearing aids and the remarkable ways they enhance quality of life.

Gone are the days of clunky, obvious hearing devices with limited functionality. Today's hearing aids are sleek, nearly invisible, and packed with features that extend far beyond better hearing. Fall detection capability now allows these devices to...

Can Hearing Aids Help With Tinnitus?

That persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing in your ears has a name—tinnitus—and contrary to what you may have been told, there are effective ways to manage it. Dr. Paige Gainey reveals how modern hearing aids offer surprising relief for this common but frustrating condition.

Using a vivid analogy, Dr. Gainey explains tinnitus as a candle in a dark room that inevitably captures our attention. Hearing aids work by "turning on the lights" in your auditory world, allowing your brain to shift focus from that internal nois...

How Do I Know If I Need A Hearing Aid and How Will That Affect Brain Health?

Struggling to hear conversations at restaurants? Constantly turning up the TV volume? These aren't just minor inconveniences—they could be early warning signs of hearing loss that directly impacts your brain health.

The connection between hearing and brain function runs deeper than most realize. As Dr. Jill Copley explains, our ears collect sound, but it's our brains that process and make meaning from what we hear. When hearing loss goes untreated, our brains work overtime trying to...

What Should I Expect During A Hearing Evaluation?

Nervous about getting your hearing checked? Dr. Jill Copley demystifies the entire process in this reassuring conversation about what really happens during a comprehensive hearing evaluation. You might be surprised to learn that modern hearing assessments involve much more than just raising your hand when you hear beeps!

The journey begins with a thorough case history where we explore your specific concerns, medical background, and daily listening challenges. We examine your ears for wax buildup and check for fluid that might indicate an ear infection...

Meet The Host: Dr. Jill Copley, Owner Of Total Hearing Care

Dive deep into the transformative world of hearing health in our engaging podcast episode featuring Dr. Jill Copley from Total Hearing Care. We explore the critical intersection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, uncovering how untreated hearing loss can lead to significant neurological issues, including dementia. Dr. Copley shares her compelling journey from audiologist to practice owner and highlights her passion for helping patients maintain their cognitive health through effective hearing care.

As we discuss real-life stories of patients who have reversed...