Audible Magic; Tony Award Nominee Adam Fisher

On a recent episode of Hear Us Out, we sat down with one of the most exciting creative forces working in theatre today: Adam Fisher, the acclaimed and Tony-nominated sound designer whose work has shaped some of Broadway’s most immersive storytelling.

Whether you’ve experienced his soundscapes live on stage or are just curious how theater’s most invisible artistry works, this episode pulls back the curtain on a craft that audiences feel long before they consciously notice it.

From Stagecraft to Storycraft: Adam’s Path into Sound Design

Adam shares the surprising story of how he found his way into sound design—part engineering, part music, part psychology, and part pure magic. What started as a fascination with how sound affects emotion turned into a career designing entire sonic environments that guide audience attention, heighten drama, and bring productions to life.

In the episode, he talks about:

• How he approaches designing sound for a brand-new show

• Why silence can be just as powerful as sound

• The difference between “hearing” and “feeling” a moment

• What he wishes more people understood about his craft

Inside a Tony-Nominated Mind

Being nominated for a Tony Award is no small feat. Adam walks us through the design process that earned him that recognition—how he builds a world from scratch, collaborates with directors and composers, and listens differently than the rest of us.

He shares behind-the-scenes stories from productions that pushed him creatively, moments when everything clicked, and moments when sound design became the unexpected hero of a show.

Why Sound Design Matters More Than You Think

For many theatergoers, sound design is the element they don’t consciously think about—but would immediately miss if it weren’t there. Adam breaks down the delicate balance of making sound both invisible and essential:

• Crafting transitions that the audience doesn’t even realize shaped the pacing

• Building tension through barely-audible layers

• Using environmental sound to make a set feel alive

• Designing clarity for dialogue without losing emotion

By the time you finish listening, you’ll never experience live theater the same way again.

The Gear, The Tech, and The Art

Adam also dives into the evolving world of theater technology—from digital consoles to immersive audio systems—and how innovation is opening new creative possibilities.

But the heart of his craft remains the same: telling stories through sound.

From Broadway to Sesame Street; Inside the Creative World of Bill Sherman

This week on Hear Us Out, we’re honored to host a true musical polymath: Bill Sherman, the Grammy-, Tony-, and Emmy-winning composer, arranger, and music director. Best known for his work on Hamilton, In the Heights, and Sesame Street, Bill has created soundtracks that resonated across generations—and today, he brings us into his creative world.

A Journey Through Sound & Storytelling

Bill Sherman’s path is anything but ordinary. After graduating from Wesleyan University, he teamed up with his college roommate, Lin-Manuel Miranda, to form the hip-hop improv group Freestyle Love Supreme. Their friendship and artistic chemistry extended into Broadway: Bill helped orchestrate In the Heights, earning him a Tony Award for Best Orchestrations in 2008.

He didn’t stop there. As a producer on the Hamilton original cast album, he added a Grammy Award to his accolades. All the while, he was building an entirely different musical world as the Music Director for Sesame Street.

Awards That Reflect a Multifaceted Career

Bill’s award shelf is impressive—and deserved:

• Tony Award for Best Orchestrations (In the Heights)

• Multiple Grammy Awards, including for In the Heights and Hamilton

• Daytime Emmy Awards for original songs on Sesame Street, like “What I Am”, “The Power of Yet”, and “A Song About Songs” (the latter featuring Sia!)

Creativity, Collaboration & Responsibility

In our conversation, Bill opens up about how he balances so many musical worlds, and why collaboration is core to his process. He reflects on:

• Working with Broadway legends: He’s brought familiar voices into Sesame Street by recruiting composers from the theater world.

• Creating for children: Bill doesn’t dumb anything down. He believes that kids’ ears are extra sophisticated—and that respect for their intelligence fuels his songwriting.

• His sense of purpose: For him, Sesame Street is more than entertainment. It’s a platform to teach, heal, and inspire. He talked on Today about his “responsibility to children” to use music to uplift.

Between the Notes: Music, Hearing, and the Mystery of Tinnitus with Dr. Melissa Wikoff

On last week’s episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with someone whose work reaches far beyond the walls of her audiology clinic. Dr. Melissa Wikoff, founder of Peachtree Hearing, is known for her expertise with musicians, her compassionate care for patients with tinnitus and Ménière’s disease, and her extraordinary commitment to supporting Holocaust survivors through free hearing aids and specialized care.

This conversation is equal parts inspiring, educational, and deeply human.

Keeping Musicians Safe While Keeping the Music Alive

Musicians don’t just listen to sound—they live in it. Dr. Wikoff walks us through the unique challenges artists face, from noise exposure to hearing fatigue to custom in-ear monitoring. She shares real-world stories of helping performers preserve their most important instrument: their ears.

Whether it’s fine-tuning protection for concert violinists or creating solutions for touring rock artists, Dr. Wikoff combines science, artistry, and empathy in a way that resonates far beyond the music world.

Tinnitus & Ménière’s: Finding Relief When Sound Becomes Stress

For many patients, tinnitus and Ménière’s disease can feel isolating, overwhelming, and unpredictable. Dr. Wikoff breaks down what’s really happening inside the ear—and the hope that modern audiology can offer.

In the episode, she explains:

• How tinnitus retraining and sound therapy actually work

• Why Ménière’s symptoms fluctuate

• What patients can do today to improve quality of life

• Why listening with compassion matters just as much as medical treatment

Her approach is rooted in clarity, education, and the belief that no one should navigate hearing challenges alone.

A Mission of Honor: Giving Free Hearing Aids to Holocaust Survivors

One of the most powerful parts of our conversation is Dr. Wikoff’s work with Holocaust survivors. Through a partnership with charitable organizations, she provides free hearing aids, fittings, and ongoing care to survivors who often struggle in silence—literally and emotionally.

She speaks about the importance of treating survivors with dignity, patience, and kindness, and the overwhelming gratitude she receives in return. These stories are moving reminders of how something as simple as the ability to hear can reconnect someone to their family, community, and sense of self.

Why Dr. Wikoff’s Work Matters

Audiology isn’t just about decibels, devices, or diagnoses—it’s about people.
Dr. Wikoff’s passion shines through in every aspect of her practice, from working with Grammy-winning artists to supporting older adults who have gone decades without access to proper hearing care.

Her blend of innovation, advocacy, and emotional intelligence makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in hearing health, music, medicine, or simply the impact of kindness.

Listen to the Full Episode

Tune in to hear Dr. Wikoff’s insights, stories, and the incredible heart behind her work.

Reuniting With “Switched at Birth” Stars Vanessa Marano & Katie LeClerc — A Conversation Full of Nostalgia, Growth, and Laughter

If you were obsessed with Switched at Birth, get ready—because this week’s episode is a full-blown reunion you didn’t know you needed. We’re joined by the show’s iconic leads, (Bay Kennish) and Katie LeClerc (Daphne Vasquez), for a heartfelt, hilarious, and incredibly insightful conversation about the series that changed their lives—and so many of ours.

Looking Back at a Groundbreaking Show

When Switched at Birth premiered, it wasn’t just another family drama. It broke new ground by featuring multiple Deaf characters, ASL on mainstream TV, and storylines centered on identity, culture, and communication.

In the episode, Vanessa and Katie share what it was like to be part of something so groundbreaking. From learning ASL on set to witnessing the impact the show had on Deaf audiences and CODAs, they reflect on the responsibility—and joy—of telling stories that mattered.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories Fans Will Love

Of course, it wouldn’t be a reunion without some behind-the-scenes fun. Vanessa and Katie dish on:

• Their first impressions of each other

• The cast dynamics you didn’t see on screen

• The scenes that challenged them the most

• Fan encounters that stuck with them

Plus, they tell a few stories that will have longtime fans laughing (and maybe tearing up just a little).

Life After “Switched at Birth”

Both actresses have carved out exciting paths since the series wrapped. In the episode, they open up about:

• New roles and projects

• Personal growth since their Switched days

• How the show shaped the way they view representation in Hollywood

• The evolution of their friendship years after filming

It’s inspiring to hear how they’ve continued advocating for inclusivity and meaningful storytelling in their careers.

Why This Reunion Means So Much

Whether you were drawn to Switched at Birth for its emotional depth, its cultural significance, or the unforgettable performances, this conversation will take you right back to the days when Bay and Daphne’s intertwined lives had us glued to our screens.

Vanessa and Katie’s chemistry is still undeniable, their love for the fans is palpable, and their appreciation for the show’s legacy is truly moving.

Listen Now

If you loved Switched at Birth—or just love hearing talented women talk authentically about their craft, their friendship, and their journey—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and join us for a beautiful walk down memory lane with two of the women who brought this groundbreaking series to life.

ASL Concert Interpreter Amber Galloway is a guest on Hear Us Out

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by the incredible Amber Galloway Gallego — the world’s most recognized ASL interpreter for live music. Known for her expressive performances alongside artists like Kendrick Lamar, Chance the Rapper, and Red Hot Chili Peppers, Amber has become a powerful advocate for accessibility and inclusion in the music industry.

Amber shares her inspiring journey into interpreting, how she brings rhythm, emotion, and lyrical nuance to her translations, and why true accessibility means giving everyone the full concert experience — not just the words. From hip-hop to heavy metal, Amber’s passion bridges the gap between sound and sign, proving that music is something we all can feel.

In this conversation, we explore:

• How Amber developed her signature interpreting style for live shows

• The challenges and joys of bringing music to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community

• The importance of accessibility in live entertainment

• Her mission to change the industry’s understanding of what “inclusive” really means

Whether you’re a music lover, performer, or advocate for accessibility, Amber’s energy and insight will leave you seeing — and feeling — music in a whole new way.

🎶 Hear Us Out — featuring Amber Galloway

Musician and producer Jacob Kulick is a guest on Hear Us Out to discuss music and his hearing loss and hearing aids

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Jacob Kulick — singer, songwriter, producer, and advocate — to talk about his journey as a musician living with hearing loss. Known for his emotionally charged lyrics and authentic sound, Jacob opens up about how his hearing aids have transformed not only the way he listens but also the way he creates and performs music.

As a passionate voice in the ReSound “New Normal” campaign, Jacob shares his mission to raise awareness about hearing health, break stigmas surrounding hearing aids, and show that hearing loss doesn’t have to limit creativity or connection.

Together, we explore:

• Jacob’s personal experience with hearing loss and how it shaped his career

• The technology behind his ReSound hearing aids and how they support his artistry

• The meaning and impact of the New Normal campaign

• His perspective on resilience, self-acceptance, and finding balance in the music industry

Jacob’s story is a powerful reminder that hearing differently can lead to creating differently — and that our challenges can become the foundation of our greatest strengths.

🎶 Hear Us Out — featuring Jacob Kulick.

Acoustic Guitar Master Mike Dawes is a guest on Hear Us Out

🎸 Mike Dawes: Master of Modern Fingerstyle and the Art of Listening

When it comes to redefining what a single acoustic guitar can do, Mike Dawes stands in a league of his own. With his percussive fingerstyle technique and genre-bending creativity, Mike has become one of the most influential and innovative guitarists of his generation. But behind the technical brilliance and breathtaking performances lies a story about something every musician should take seriously — hearing health.

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Mike to explore his journey from solo YouTube sensation to touring the world with artists like Justin Hayward of The Moody Blues. Along the way, he shares how he balances the demands of a high-volume career with the need to protect his most valuable tool: his ears.

🎶 In our conversation, Mike opens up about:

• The evolution of his fingerstyle technique and creative approach to guitar

• Life on tour and the realities of performing night after night

• How he uses in-ear monitors to protect his hearing without compromising on sound quality

• The importance of hearing awareness for musicians and fans alike

• Finding balance between innovation, health, and longevity in the music industry

Mike’s thoughtful perspective is a reminder that great musicianship isn’t just about mastering your instrument — it’s also about taking care of yourself so the music never has to stop.

🎧 Tune in to this episode of Hear Us Out for a deep dive into the sound, science, and soul behind one of modern guitar’s most fascinating voices.

Legendary Rock Guitarist Paul Gilbert was a Guest on Hear Us Out

🎸 Paul Gilbert: Rock Legend, Resilience, and the Power of Hearing

Few guitarists have reshaped the sound of rock quite like Paul Gilbert. From shredding stages with Mr. Big and Racer X, to his acclaimed solo work and masterclasses, Gilbert’s name is synonymous with speed, precision, and creativity. But behind the wall of sound lies a story of resilience — one that he shared in an inspiring and candid conversation on Hear Us Out.

As a brand ambassador for Phonak Hearing Systems, Paul opens up about his personal journey with hearing loss, hearing aids, the challenges it brought to his life and music, and how technology — combined with determination — helped him rediscover the joy of listening and performing.

In our conversation, Paul reflects on:

• His early days as a rock prodigy and what it took to build his signature sound

• The moment he realized his hearing was changing, and how he adapted

• The emotional and creative impact of hearing loss on his music

• His partnership with Phonak and the importance of hearing health for musicians and fans alike

Through honesty, humor, and deep musical insight, Paul reminds us that hearing isn’t just about sound — it’s about connection, creativity, and life itself.

🎧 Tune in to this powerful episode of Hear Us Out to hear Paul Gilbert like you’ve never heard him before — talking about passion, perseverance, and the art of truly listening.

🎙️ Hear Us Out: Conversations at the Intersection of Sound, Hearing, and Health

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What does sound mean to you? To a musician, it’s expression. To a doctor, it’s science. To all of us, it’s connection.

Hear Us Out is the podcast where those worlds come together. Hosted by passionate advocates for hearing health, this series explores the power, beauty, and science of sound — and what happens when it’s lost.

Each episode features unforgettable conversations with Grammy®, Tony®, and Academy Award® winners, along with leading medical professionals, researchers, and innovators. Together, they share personal stories, expert insights, and groundbreaking discoveries about how we hear, how we can protect our hearing, and how sound shapes our lives in ways we often take for granted.

From the stage to the sound lab, Hear Us Out dives deep into the moments that make us listen closer — exploring everything from music and performance to cutting-edge hearing technology and wellness.

Whether you’re a musician, sound engineer, healthcare professional, or just someone who loves good conversation, this podcast will change the way you think about what it means to truly hear.

🎧 Tune in to Hear Us Out — available wherever you get your podcasts.
Because every voice, every note, and every heartbeat deserves to be heard.

OUT TODAY: Guitar Legend, Tommy Emmanuel is a guest on Hear Us Out

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