MED-EL Podcast

Join Maximilian Schwaninger and Mario Schinnerl as they take a closer look at the test results and user experiences behind the new Standard Pro and Micro Pro rechargeable batteries for SONNET 3. Discover how extended runtimes, compact design, and simplified handling make these new options perfect for everyday use. Weblinks: MED-EL Professionals Blog: SONNET 3 Reloaded: Smaller size. Added power.

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger is joined by Scott Murray, a long-time cochlear implant user and outdoor enthusiast, to explore how the waterproof technology of SONNET 3 is transforming everyday life. From rainy concerts to water sports, discover how this next-level technology brings freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind to CI users—no matter the weather. Weblinks: MED-EL Website: SONNET...

In this episode, Patrick Spörr, Product Manager for External Devices at MED-EL, talks with Andreas Neurauter from MED-EL's R&D department about the new AudioLink XT and its standout features. They explore how this next-generation connectivity device builds on user feedback to offer ASHA-based TV streaming, FM receiver support, improved battery efficiency, broader compatibility, and more. Weblinks:...

In this final episode of Closest to Natural Hearing, Marcus Schmidt speaks with Dr. Hinrich Staecker and Dr. Peter Nopp about the future of cochlear implantation. They explore how advances in AI, anatomy‑based fitting, hearing preservation, and fully implantable systems are reshaping outcomes for current and future CI users. The conversation also highlights emerging developments in gene therapy, d...

In this episode, Marcus Schmidt discusses with Prof. Stefan Weder and Dr. Ilona Anderson how a flexible electrode array design and advanced surgical tools, such as OTOPLAN and OTODRIVE, are helping surgeons achieve more precise outcomes while supporting residual hearing preservation by protecting the delicate structures in the cochlea. They also look at the latest clinical data on hearing preserva...

In this episode, Dr. Ilona Anderson welcomes Mariia Pazi and Krystian Koper, two cochlear implant users with unique hearing journeys. Together, they explore what "closest to natural hearing" means from a user's perspective.  Weblinks: How MED-EL Cochlear Implants Provide the Closest to Natural Hearing  

In this episode, Jennifer Robinson is joined by Dr. Anja Kurz and Dr. Margaret Dillon for an in‑depth look at anatomy‑based fitting (ABF) and its role in reducing frequency–place mismatch. Together, they explore what makes ABF so impactful—from the underlying science to everyday clinical challenges—and discuss recent findings that show how individualized frequency alignment can improve listening c...

In this episode, Dr. Peter Nopp is joined by Prof. Griet Mertens and Dr. Masoud Zoka Assadi to explore individualized cochlear implantation, from anatomy-based electrode selection to anatomy-based fitting. They also explain how OTOPLAN supports clinicians before and after surgery by visualizing the patient's unique cochlea, guiding electrode selection, and calculating frequencies tonotopically for...

In this episode, Ilona Anderson and Professor Paul Van de Heyning discuss why stimulating the entire cochlea is key to achieving natural hearing with cochlear implants — and how this approach improves music enjoyment as well as overall quality of life for patients. Weblinks: How MED-EL Cochlear Implants Provide the Closest to Natural Hearing

In this episode, Marcus Schmidt is joined by Prof. Sumit Agrawal and Dr. Peter  Nopp  to explore how cochlear anatomy shapes cochlear implant design and performance. They discuss breakthrough synchrotron imaging, the variability in cochlear size and structure, and why deep insertion and full cochlear coverage matter for natural, rich sound. Weblinks: MED-EL Professional Blog: Incredible Synchrotro...

In this first episode, Marcus Schmidt and Jennifer Robinson unpack what closest to natural hearing means, why it matters for cochlear implant users, and how MED-EL's unique technology is designed to replicate the way we naturally hear. Together, they explore the three pillars of closest to natural hearing that make this concept so powerful—and set our technology apart. Weblinks: How MED-EL Cochlea...

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger and Lukas Osl from Product Management delve into the AudioKey 3 app. This innovative tool has many features that make managing hearing settings on the SONNET 3 audio processor easier and more convenient. Tune in to hear expert insights and practical tips for getting the most out of the AudioKey 3 app.

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger explores the innovative direct streaming capabilities of SONNET 3 with Max Röder, an advanced development engineer at MED-EL and bilateral CI recipient. They discuss how settings are optimized for different situations, how phone calls are managed, use of AudioLink XT, and much more. Tune in to find out how these features enhance users' experiences.

In this episode, Maximilian Schwaninger, Product Manager for SONNET 3, discusses the groundbreaking ergonomics of MED-EL's latest behind-the-ear audio processor with Chris Lilienweiß, one of the first SONNET 3 users and Head of Music and User Experience at MED-EL Germany. They highlight how innovative features like the flexible ear-hook and the touch key are transforming users' experiences and com...

Michelle Dampf, an experienced speech-language pathologist at the University of Missouri Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment, shares her in-depth knowledge on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She addresses the challenges to diagnosis and treatment of ASD and provides numerous recommendations for aural habilitationists working with children who are affected by this condition.    Weblinks W...

Julie Kosaner , a pediatric audiologist, teacher of the deaf, and MED-EL consultant, joins the vodcast series to share her wealth of knowledge on fitting and rehabilitation with auditory brainstem implants (ABIs). We discuss ABI's early beginnings and her current thoughts on how patients with ABIs can achieve the best audiological and intervention outcomes.   Weblinks Watch the second episode of M...

Jane Opie, a Senior Research Audiologist for MED-EL, introduces the topic of aging and hearing loss to our rehab series. Here we discuss a range of issues, including the challenges of early diagnosis and intervention, the cognitive impact of hearing loss, relevant research, assessment tools, and ideas and tips for rehabilitation.     Weblinks Access our MED-EL Rehabilitation Resources for Adults ,...

In the final episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team meet up with specialist Natalie Teakle  to explore the crucial role of digital tools in achieving optimal performance through rehabilitation. Join the discussion as they shine a light onto how these tools simplify the journey for both professionals and patients. Natalie also shares insights into the AI-powered ReDi Studio,...

In the fourth episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team talk about the new features of MAESTRO 10, focusing on patient-centric remote care and fitting solutions. Explore the latest advancements designed to facilitate remote patient support and streamline workflows for clinics, saving valuable time. Additionally, they explore the advantages of Anatomy-Based Fitting for cochlear...

In the third episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team sit down with expert Nikola Ivanovic to explore enhancements in the latest version of OTOPLAN. Discover how these new features streamline the planning process for individualized otological surgery, making it more accessible than ever before. Join the conversation on the potential benefits that clinics can reap from integra...

In the second episode, hosts Alex and Lukas from the Product Management Team engage in a conversation with specialist Marina Martin-Ballestero about the complexities and anxieties involved in choosing a cochlear implant. Explore the invaluable role of mentoring and fostering connections, as they talk about platforms like Hearpeers . This patient-driven platform connects candidates with mentors who...

Alex and Lukas from Product Management provide an overview of MED-EL's digital care ecosystem. They will talk about how digital tools and services can make the lives of professionals and their patients easier along the entire patient journey. From finding information on hearing solutions all the way to reaching peak performance through individualized hearing rehabilitation.       *Sound effects co...

Peter Grasso and Florian Feichtner talk to Marcus Schmidt about how the clinical support they provide increases reliability: they work in multidisciplinary teams to aid clinicians along the entire patient pathway, answer questions, make expert recommendations, and provide training. Weblinks: (free professional myMED-EL login required, sign up at  https://my.medel.com/ ) MED-EL Academy Course: Clin...

MED - EL's audio processors have low average monthly repair rates, but sometimes issues do arise. Audiological scientist Katherine Wilson, Peter Konecny, and Manfred Pieber  discuss design aspects that keep this number low - such as analyzing weakness in devices that do break and improving them with each new generation - and how dev ices are serviced reliably when there are problems to get users h...

MRI is a very common medical procedure for both otological and non - otological reasons, so it shouldn't have complications or be painful for hearing implant recipients.   Dr. Ingo Todt and  Dr. Martin Zimmerling talk to Manfred Pieber about the features of MED - EL implants that reduce or eliminate complications - such as magnet dislocation - during MRI: a freely rotating, robust, diametrically b...