24. What is an Auditory Processing Disorder?
Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast
Release Date: 07/29/2025
Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast
In this episode of The Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast, Dr. Dawn Heiman and Dr. Emily Johnson explore Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) — a condition where individuals struggle to understand speech despite normal hearing. Learn how APD affects both children and adults, why traditional hearing tests often miss it, and what specialized evaluations can reveal. They discuss early intervention for students, how adults may finally feel validated after years of unnoticed challenges, and the life-changing benefits of targeted therapies. Whether you’re a parent, educator, clinician, or someone...
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Explore Linda’s journey through post-concussion auditory dysfunction, central auditory processing disorder, and the emotional impact of untreated hearing loss. Linda reveals how proper treatment—including hearing aids, sound desensitization, and guided aural rehabilitation—helped her reclaim her work, relationships, and joy in life. To see the video edition of this episode with closed captioning, please go to Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast at https://hearingwellnessjourney.com/podcast.
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In this episode of the Hearing Wellness Journey podcast, Dr. Dawn Heiman, Dr. Stephanie Michaelides, Dr. Emily Johnson, and Lindsey Doherty dive into the world of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and even headphones like Apple AirPods that claim hearing benefits. They discuss: ✅ Who OTC hearing aids are actually for ✅ How “perceived” hearing loss might differ from real hearing loss ✅ Why a hearing test is still an essential first step ✅ Troubleshooting feedback, poor fit, and domes ✅ Tips for choosing and testing devices, including return policies ✅ How audiologists can help...
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Do you feel like your ear has been clogged for days? You might think it’s just wax, but it could be something more serious — sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). To see the video edition of this episode with closed captioning, please go to Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast at https://hearingwellnessjourney.com/podcast.
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Explore practical tips, environment adjustments, and relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality. Discover how sleep hygiene, sound therapy, stress management, and daily routines can make a real difference in reducing tinnitus distress. Plus, learn about the latest advancements in sleep studies, creating a calming bedroom environment, and strategies for overcoming nighttime awakenings. Whether you're seeking insights from health professionals or personal stories, this episode offers hope and guidance to help you wake up feeling refreshed and more in control of your hearing health. To see...
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Is earwax gross… or great? In this episode, Dr. Dawn Heiman and her team of audiologists dive into the surprising truth about earwax: why we need it, when it becomes a problem, and why Q-tips and TikTok trends are doing more harm than good. You’ll hear funny and eye-opening patient stories, learn the safest way to manage buildup, and find out why earwax removal is one of the most satisfying parts of their day. Whether you’re a hearing aid user, earbud lover, or just curious — this episode will clean up everything you thought you knew about wax. To see the video edition of this episode...
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In this episode, experts discuss how to approach loved ones about hearing loss with sensitivity and understanding. They highlight the societal stigma surrounding hearing aids, share tips for initiating conversations, and emphasize the importance of early intervention. The speakers also explore advances in hearing technology, addressing misconceptions, and encouraging proactive steps to improve quality of life through better hearing. Join us for insights on supporting loved ones and breaking down barriers to hearing health. To see the video edition of this episode with closed captioning, please...
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Tune in to find out more about what causes tinnitus and what you could do to manage it. To see the video edition of this episode with closed captioning, please go to Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast at https://hearingwellnessjourney.com/podcast.
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Tune in to hear our discussion of the new Over-The-Counter Hearing Aid classification, what the FDA ruling means and how this could be a great thing. To see the video edition of this episode with closed captioning, please go to Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast at https://hearingwellnessjourney.com/podcast.
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Tune in to hear PART 2 of Paul's unique hearing loss story. He incurred hearing loss as an adult and then suddenly lost more hearing a few years later. Since we last heard his story last year, in episode 5, he has received a cochlear implant on his right side and worked on improving his hearing with three months of auditory training therapy. To see the video edition of this episode with closed captioning, please go to Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast at https://hearingwellnessjourney.com/podcast.
info_outlineIn this episode of The Hearing Wellness Journey Podcast, Dr. Dawn Heiman and Dr. Emily Johnson explore Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) — a condition where individuals struggle to understand speech despite normal hearing. Learn how APD affects both children and adults, why traditional hearing tests often miss it, and what specialized evaluations can reveal. They discuss early intervention for students, how adults may finally feel validated after years of unnoticed challenges, and the life-changing benefits of targeted therapies. Whether you’re a parent, educator, clinician, or someone personally affected, this episode offers hope, guidance, and real solutions. Topics Covered: • What is APD and how it differs from hearing loss • Why people with normal hearing still struggle to understand speech • Signs of APD in kids and adults • How APD is diagnosed with advanced audiological testing • Real-life success stories and treatment options • The importance of early intervention and advocacy 📍 Visit hearingwellnessjourney.com/podcast for resources and functional assessments. 👥 Join our private community for ongoing support and conversation.