Redefining the Hearing Aid with Brandon Sawalich

Описание: Brandon Sawalich, President and CEO of Starkey, joins us to share his incredible journey both on the professional front and in his personal life. The conversation brings to light the pride he feels for his son William's progress in the NASCAR Xfinity Series—a journey fueled by discipline and dedication. Brandon also opens up about the profound impact of Starkey's founder, Bill Austin, whose mentorship continues to guide him in leading the company while preserving Bill's remarkable legacy.

Moving beyond personal stories, we explore Starkey's transformation into a forward-thinking tech company. Brandon details how groundbreaking innovations like Edge AI—featuring AI and sensors—are redefining hearing aid technology. With advancements such as accelerometers for fall detection and vestibular diagnostics for fall prevention, the importance of educating audiologists and hearing professionals becomes paramount. Despite some initial skepticism, these pioneering features bring hope for significantly improved patient outcomes, emphasizing the potential of technology to enhance lives.

We tackle the evolving landscape of the hearing aid industry, focusing on the rise of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. Brandon reflects on how OTC products have reshaped public perception and awareness. He candidly discusses the critical role of professional service, fitting, and maintenance in achieving optimal hearing outcomes, while cautioning against misleading marketing tactics. This engaging discussion highlights how innovation, mentorship, and patient care remain central to navigating the challenges and opportunities within the hearing industry.

About Brandon Sawalich:

As the President and CEO of Starkey, the global leader in hearing technology innovation, Brandon Sawalich’s mindset has one direction: Forward.
Brandon started working in Starkey’s hearing aid repair department nearly 30 years ago, and he has worked in virtually every corner of the business since, learning every aspect of the hearing health care industry, including what patients and hearing professionals expect from the technology Starkey creates.

Now, a new generation at Starkey has arrived. Brandon’s vision for Starkey and its more than 5,000 employees around the world is not to be the biggest; it is to be the best. That starts with product performance, operational excellence and best-in-class customer service. In February 2023, Starkey unveiled the world’s most advanced hearing aid and the industry’s flagship product. Genesis AI is not only setting a new standard for technology at Starkey, but it’s pushing the edge of what is possible for hearing technology innovation.

Brandon believes in the power of kindness. Starkey Cares, Starkey’s corporate social responsibility program has partnered with more than 2,000 hearing health professionals around the United States to get premium hearing technology to people who cannot afford it. As the exclusive global hearing health partner of Special Olympics International, Starkey Cares has fitted hundreds of athletes and coaches with new, free hearing aids and works with their global network of hearing health professionals to continue care in athletes’ home communities.

In 2019, Brandon was named to the George W. Bush Presidential Center’s Executive Advisory Council. He served as Board Chair of the Hearing Industries Association from 2017-2021 and is currently the board’s Vice Chair.