AuDacity 2026 - Bios

Debbie Abel, Au.D., spent 13 years in private practice in Alliance, Ohio, after moving to an existing practice from the Alliance Eye and Ear Clinic, where she was employed for 14 years, taking the ENT with her. She also supported two ENTs in Poway, California, for 8 years.

She is the manager of Coding and Contracting Services for Audigy, has authored several chapters in Plural Publication texts, and is the editor of The Essential Guide to Coding in Audiology: Coding, Billing and Practice Management, published in December 2017.

Amyn Amlani, Ph.D., is a nationally recognized audiologist and researcher who serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Oklahoma Health Campus. He also directs the Audiology Research in Implementation and Access (ARIA) Lab, where his research focuses on hearing healthcare delivery, health economics and outcomes, workforce and service-delivery models, clinical outcomes, and access to audiologic care.

Dr. Amlani currently serves as Immediate Past President of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology and is a member of the National Academies of Practice. His professional work has included leadership, scholarship, and service aimed at advancing the delivery and value of hearing healthcare.

He earned a Ph.D. in Audiology/Psychoacoustics from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Audiology from Purdue University. He also holds a certificate in Health Economics and Outcomes Research from the University of Washington.

Dr. Amy Badstubner is a leadership and people strategy advisor and co-owner of dB Coaching Group, a firm that helps healthcare organizations solve people problems before they become business problems.

As a former owner of a concierge audiology private practice, she understands firsthand the challenges leaders face when managing teams, navigating difficult conversations, and building strong workplace cultures.

With more than 20 years of experience in business ownership, leadership development, and professional coaching, Dr. Badstubner works with healthcare leaders to strengthen communication, accountability, and team dynamics so their organizations can perform at their best.

Dr. Victor H. Bray is Professor of Audiology at Drexel University and former Dean of the Osborne College of Audiology. Over more than four decades, his career has spanned clinical practice, biomedical research, medical-device innovation, higher education, and national professional leadership.

His career uniquely bridges clinical practice, industry, and academia. After more than a decade providing and managing audiologic care in otology and otolaryngology practices, Dr. Bray held leadership positions at ReSound, Sonic Innovations, and OtoKinetics, including Vice President and Chief Audiology Officer. He led teams in auditory and clinical research, product development, quality systems, and international regulatory affairs, helping validate and commercialize multiple generations of advanced hearing technologies, including groundbreaking advances in speech understanding in noise.

As Dean of Salus University's Osborne College of Audiology—the nation's first College of Audiology—Dr. Bray led its growth into the largest Doctor of Audiology program in the United States. He expanded international distance education through a second-generation AuD Bridge Program and Advanced Studies Certificate Programs in cochlear implants, tinnitus and hyperacusis, and vestibular sciences and disorders, while advancing the professional-school model for audiology education.

Dr. Bray has authored or coauthored more than 250 publications and presentations nationally and internationally. His academic scholarship has evolved from hearing technology to professional education, hearing-loss comorbidities, interprofessional care, workforce sustainability, healthcare economics, public policy, and the future of audiology. His current project is guest co-editor of the 2026 Seminars in Hearing special issue on Workforce Sustainability in Audiology and coauthor of five manuscripts in the issue.

A Past President of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, Dr. Bray is a Distinguished Fellow in Public Policy of the National Academies of Practice, where he founded the Audiology Academy and has served multiple terms on its Executive Committee and as Secretary/Treasurer.

His honors include the ADA David Goldstein Outstanding Audiologist and Joel Wernick Awards, Hearing Industries Association Volunteerism Award, University of Texas Outstanding Alumnus Award, and Salus University Presidential Medal of Honor.

His career reflects a continuing commitment to advancing audiology through innovation, education, interprofessional collaboration, leadership, advocacy, and service.

Dr. Jane Brewer is the owner of Precision Chiropractic in Windsor, Colorado, where she has spent more than a decade building a practice centered on upper cervical chiropractic care and the craniocervical junction. She is one of a small number of chiropractors nationwide to have earned Diplomate status in Chiropractic Craniocervical Junction Procedures (DCCJP), and at the time of publication, the only DCCJP in Colorado.

Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Jane is deeply involved in advancing the profession through education, collaboration, and leadership on multiple upper cervical chiropractic boards. She also believes strongly that a successful business should contribute to the community it serves and has made community involvement and service an important part of Precision Chiropractic’s mission.

Outside the office, she is happiest exploring the Colorado mountains with her husband - usually hiking, biking, skiing, or planning the next adventure.

Jana Brown, former owner of Allegany Hearing & Balance, earned her Doctor of Audiology Degree in 2004 from the Arizona School of Health Sciences. She holds a Master of Science Degree from West Virginia University. Dr. Brown is Board Certified by the American Board of Audiology and is the past president of the Maryland Academy of Audiology, serving on their executive board for six years. Dr. Brown was recently appointed by Maryland’s Governor to be on the Maryland Board of Examiners for Audiology, Speech Language Pathology, Hearing Aid Dispensers, and Music Therapy. She has received six Academic Scholar Awards from the American Academy of Audiology. She is a member of ADA and was honored with the Leo Doerfler Award in 2017. She has also received the Gerber Process Award and the Rich Burba Community Award from Audigy. She has served on the executive board of the Dove Center, a domestic violence and sexual assault center, and Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing.

Sheena Burks is the Chief Clinical Officer at WSA, where she focuses on maximizing patient and provider outcomes across WSA companies in the U.S. In this role, she leverages her deep understanding of clinical practice and healthcare delivery to enhance the impact of hearing care services. Previously, Burks served as Chief Marketing Officer for WSA Americas region, overseeing marketing and branding initiatives for wholesale and retail brands, including Signia, Widex, Rexton, and HearUSA. She also led the integration of brand teams throughout the U.S., Canada, and Latin America.

Since beginning her career as an audiologist, Burks has held leadership positions in the hearing aid industry for over 20 years. She brings a unique perspective to her work, grounded in a deep understanding of the needs of hearing care professionals and their patients. Her leadership is focused on driving awareness, delivering value, and increasing profitability by building and inspiring high-performing teams. Oliver holds a BA and MBA from Temple University, an MA from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Doctor of Audiology degree from Salus University.

Mr. Calvert is a licensed Audiology Assistant and Chief Hearing Aid Technician for the Callier Center. He holds a BA in Kinesiology and over 20 years' experience in audiology environments. Andy has been involved in the development of in office 3D printing earmolds at Callier from designing through finished product delivery.

Dr. Courtney Campbell is a distinguished board-certified veterinary surgeon specializing in orthopedic, soft tissue, and minimally invasive surgery. Hailing from Burlington, Connecticut, Dr. Campbell's path in veterinary medicine has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence. After completing three rigorous one-year internships in Orlando, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, he further honed his craft during a surgical residency in Los Angeles. This year, Dr. Campbell achieved a significant milestone by launching Stitches Veterinary Surgery in Long Beach, California—a state-of-the-art facility he personally designed and built from the ground up to realize his vision for unparalleled specialized veterinary care.

Education is a cornerstone of Dr. Campbell's professional life. He champions the power of knowledge by hosting a popular podcast, speaking at veterinary conferences, and serving as a veterinary medical correspondent for national talk shows and podcasts. His pioneering work includes hosting ""Pet Talk"" on Nat Geo Wild, the first program of its kind to bring pet health discussions to a broad television audience. Dr. Campbell also actively mentors future veterinarians as a clinical instructor at Colorado State University’s Translational Medicine Institute. With the opening of Stitches Veterinary Surgery, Dr. Campbell looks forward to a future filled with innovative care and profound impact on the lives of animals and their families.

Lori Carnsew, MD FAAFP is a board-certified Family Physician and Diplomate of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine with more than 25 years of experience caring for patients across the lifespan. After beginning her career as an electrical engineer, she pursued medicine to combine her passion for science, innovation, and patient care. Recognizing that chronic disease is best addressed through prevention and lifestyle change, Dr. Carnsew integrated Lifestyle Medicine into her practice more than a decade ago. In 2017, she founded Verity Primary Medicine & Lifestyle, a Direct Primary Care practice dedicated to whole-person care, disease prevention, and empowering patients through education. Her practice features one of the nation's first teaching kitchens incorporated into a primary care office, where culinary medicine and hands-on nutrition education are used to help patients build sustainable healthy habits.

Dr. Carnsew is a speaker on Lifestyle Medicine, Direct Primary Care, and physician wellness. She is passionate about equipping both patients and healthcare professionals with practical tools that improve health outcomes while restoring joy to the practice of medicine. She chairs the Wellness Committee of the South Carolina Academy of Family Physicians. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Carnsew is the author of the children's book How to Live Like a Superhero, which encourages healthy habits through engaging storytelling for children and families.

Nicole Carreon, LMFT, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of Nobility Wellness Services, PLLC, a private psychotherapy practice providing individual and relational therapy, clinical supervision, and consultation. For the past nine years, Nicole has specialized in working with individuals experiencing tinnitus and other audiological conditions, including sound sensitivity, hyperacusis, and related psychological distress. She incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and modify maladaptive thought patterns, reduce anxiety-driven attention to auditory stimuli, and develop adaptive responses. Nicole also integrates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based interventions, and somatic approaches.

Kim Cavitt, AuD, is the owner of Audiology Resources, which provides comprehensive operational, compliance, and reimbursement consulting services and products to hearing healthcare clinics, providers, organizations, buying groups, and manufacturers. Throughout her career, Cavitt has been actively involved in these issues and has written numerous articles, provided training, and given presentations at both the state and national levels on these topics.

Prior to her consulting business, she served as a clinical audiologist at The Ohio State University and Northwestern University and also spent two years as the director of professional relations at HearPO, now Amplifon Hearing Services. Cavitt is a past president of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA)

Lindsay R. Chura, PhD, serves as senior policy and research advisor for AARP and the chief scientific officer for the Global Council on Brain Health, positions she's held since joining AARP in 2015.

She was previously a senior policy advisor to the British Ambassador in Washington, where she managed the international health and life science portfolio. At the embassy, Chura was actively engaged in G7 coordination activities surrounding the Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia, and in 2014 she led a Congressional delegation to the U.K., focused on aging and dementia research and care.

Chura has published across a range of scientific domains, and has written for U.S. News & World Report as an American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Mass Media Fellow. She enjoys engaging with schools and the wider community through science outreach activities.

Jordan was introduced to the world of audiology in 2014 when he met his future wife, an audiologist. After they were married, they took action on his desire to own a family business and her desire to treat patients the ""right"" way and to bring world-class audiological care to their small town. Coates Hearing Clinic was established in 2019 and has 2 locations and 4 audiologists. Jordan is responsible for the non-clinical aspects of the practice such as finances, insurance and marketing.

Jordan graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2008 with a BA in Communication Studies and from Strayer University in 2018 with an MBA.

Laurie Daley is a Senior Practice Services Manager at Sonova. Prior to joining Sonova in 2012, Laurie practiced as a clinical audiologist in central Massachusetts. As part of the Phonak outside sales team, she shared her passion for helping patients on their journey to better hearing, both with her customers and the team she led as Region Director. In her current role, Laurie continues to work with hearing healthcare providers to deliver an exceptional patient experience, and to thrive & grow in an ever-evolving industry.

Dr. Jill Davis is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, where she received both her Doctorate of Audiology and Bachelor of Science degrees. She is the owner and audiologist at Victory Hearing and Balance in Austin, Texas, a full scope audiology practice with emphasis on auditory training and cognitive health. Dr. Davis is currently a Director-at-Large for ADA and also co-chair of the education committee for the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA).

Nick de Julio is a Sales Manager at Warner Tech-care Products, where he has become a recognized expert in earmold production and digital workflows across the audiology and dental industries. Since joining Warner Tech-care in 2018, Nick has partnered with both small practices and large organizations to help implement and optimize digital production processes. He has worked closely with industry-leading companies including Starkey, Estron, and Alclair, providing guidance on everything from equipment setup to workflow efficiency. Nick’s expertise spans scanner and printer installations, service and maintenance, production training, and day-to-day operational support for both new and established labs. Known for his hands-on approach and deep technical knowledge, he is passionate about helping hearing healthcare professionals successfully transition into digital manufacturing and improve patient outcomes through innovative technology solutions.

Jennifer A. Deal, PhD, is an epidemiologist and gerontologist with expertise in cognitive aging. She is an associate professor in the Departments of Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Trained in the epidemiology of aging, Deal studies the effects of hearing loss on an aging brain and how hearing loss influences cognitive function to inform strategies for the primary prevention of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults.

Kari Dermer, Au.D., CPC, is a certified career and leadership coach and co owner of dB Coaching Group, a leadership and people strategy firm supporting audiologists and business owners. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience in leadership, mentorship, and professional coaching, she helps individuals navigate the human side of leadership, strengthen team dynamics, and build meaningful careers while not losing their sanity in the process.

Nicholai joined the Sonova Group as President, North America, Hearing Instruments, starting in January 2025. His previous experience includes serving as General Manager and Vice President for North America at LifeScan, a global leader in blood glucose monitoring, from May 2022 to October 2024. In this role, he oversaw sales, market access, marketing, commercial excellence and operations, contracting, eCommerce, distribution, and customer care.

Before his tenure at LifeScan, Nicholai spent twelve years at GE Healthcare in the patient monitoring segment. He progressed from territory account manager to Vice President of Patient Monitoring for the US/Canada region, where he managed sales, marketing, and services for capital equipment, software, consulting, and consumables.

He holds a BSc in Industrial and Systems Engineering with a minor in Information Technology from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Emiliano joined Amplifon in 2023 as Executive Vice President Americas. Holding a master’s degree in economics from Luiss University in Rome (Italy) and an MBA in Entrepreneurial Finance from UCLA in Los Angeles, Emiliano has a strong background in the Consumer and Retail industries, having dedicated his entire career to these fields. He has international experience and a General Management track record as an Executive, also covering Strategy, Operations, and Corporate Development roles.

Sara Downs is an audiologist and president of the Hearing Wellness Center and Tinnitus Treatment Center, a multi-site practice in northern Minnesota. She has been specializing in the treatment of tinnitus for over 20 years. Also certified in Mind-Body Medicine, she has been teaching self-care to patients and colleagues, weaving the practices into her treatment plans for patients with tinnitus. She has developed the Active Sound Therapy protocol and has recently completed a retrospective study about its efficacy. She served as Interim Executive Director of the American Tinnitus Association from 2023-2034 and still serves as a member of the board of directors. In her spare time she is a roadie and sound engineer for her son’s band. You’re also likely to find her hiking or biking in the woods on any given day.

My name is Alana Epstein, and I am a fourth-year Doctor of Audiology student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I am currently completing my fourth-year externship at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and will graduate with my AuD in May 2027. I have a strong interest in all areas of audiology, with a particular passion for pediatric audiology and cochlear implants.

My passion for audiology is deeply personal. I was born profoundly deaf and received bilateral cochlear implants as a young child. Growing up, I had the opportunity to receive care through a private audiology practice, where my audiologist had a profound impact on my life and inspired me to pursue the field. Throughout my time at UNC Chapel Hill, I have gained experience in a variety of clinical settings, including hospitals, private practices, and mobile/travel clinics. I have also been involved in research and service trips to rural communities throughout North Carolina. Additionally, my involvement in the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program has provided me with valuable interdisciplinary experiences and opportunities to advocate for individuals with disabilities.

I hope to provide every patient and family with the same compassionate, personalized care and inspiration that my audiologist provided me. Outside of audiology, I enjoy playing sports, spending time with others, and especially playing pickleball!

Tom has been a member of the Stearns Bank team since 1997, specializing in small business banking. He is passionate about assisting audiologists with their financing and banking needs. No situation is too complex for Tom, he is always up for the challenge.

Together with Stearns Bank, Tom has solutions for practice start-ups, acquisitions, expansions, equipment purchases, inventory, working capital, real estate construction or renovation, debt refinance and much more! He can also offer business bank accounts that pay interest on balances, are free from fees and include the best-in-class mobile banking services.

Tom takes pride in his ability to find creative solutions and deliver results quickly. As an employee owner of Stearns Bank, he is genuinely committed to providing exceptional service, efficiency, and open communication at every stage of the process.

Inspired by an experience in 2010—fitting hearing aids for underserved children and adults, many hearing for the first time, ignited Brian’s lifelong commitment to hearing health. Combined with his own exposures to hazardous noise, it has driven his mission to help individuals and organizations prevent, preserve, and treat noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus—the most common yet preventable occupational injuries in the world.

Brian is known for delivering dynamic, engaging training that blends scientific evidence with practical, real-world application. His approach focuses on actionable strategies that inspire behavior change, elevate awareness, and integrates hearing conservation into everyday practice across workplaces and communities. Outside of his professional work, Brian is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys exploring state and national forests with his spirited Small Munsterlander, Birdy.

Lauren Felton, AuD, CCC-A, is an audiologist and educator based in St. Louis, Missouri, with two decades of clinical and academic experience in the field of audiology. She earned her Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree from Washington University School of Medicine.

Dr. Felton's clinical career includes roles for lifespan care across multiple hospital based settings, intraoperative monitoring, and as a contracted educational audiologist. Dr. Felton is currently serving as Clinical Coordinator for the Audiology Program and lecturer for courses in Clinical Audiology and Business Practices. She has also served on the interdisciplinary counsel at WashU for six years, mentored numerous graduate students through their Capstone Projects, and has held state level leadership roles with the Missouri Academy of Audiology. Dr. Felton currently serves with the Missouri Speech Language Hearing Association, as President-Elect and VP for Audiology Services. She also volunteers on various national audiology organization committees.

Dr. Melissa Fling is a clinical audiologist and the founder of Custom Ear Solutions, a Colorado-based, small private practice specializing in hearing conservation and custom-fitted hearing protection. Dr. Fling completed her undergraduate degree in Audiology and Speech-Language Science at the University of Northern Colorado and her graduate degree in clinical audiology at Central Michigan University. She is interested in hearing conservation, diagnostics, and questioning the status quo of current audiology practice.

Dr. Girard first joined Hearing Associates, Inc. in 2008 as a Doctor of Audiology and took over as President/Owner in 2012. As an Illinois native, Dr. Girard resides in the northwest suburbs with her husband Joe and their two sons, Colton and Bauer. When she is not working in the office, you will find her spending time with her family at home or at one of Colton’s soccer games. She also loves music and photography. Dr. Girard received her professional doctorate in Audiology from Indiana University and completed her undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa. Her education also includes certificates in American Sign Language/Deaf Studies and Clinical Competency in Audiology. Dr. Girard enjoys the challenge of helping people hear their best by empowering her patients through Hearing Health 101 Classes or finding the right hearing device for each patient’s needs.

Kristi Gravel, AuD, CCC-A, PASC, COPM, serves as Director of Midwest Hearing at Midwest Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists, a 114-year-old ENT private practice with 13 audiologists and five audiology technicians in the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin. Dr. Gravel previously served as President of the Minnesota Academy of Audiology and has been an adjunct and visiting lecturer at the University of Minnesota. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Iowa and Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. She holds Pediatric Audiology Specialty Certification (PASC) through the American Board of Audiology and previously worked at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital-Fairview for 11 years. She is a member of ASCENT (Administrator Support Community for ENT) and achieved Certification in Otolaryngology Practice Management (COPM) in 2022 after transitioning from front-line provider to business leader.

My name is Courtney Greene, and I am a fourth-year Doctor of Audiology student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, currently completing my externship at the Durham VA Medical Center. I will graduate with my AuD in May 2027.

My interest in audiology is shaped by my own experience with hearing loss. Diagnosed at age six and a lifelong hearing aid user, I have a personal understanding of the impact hearing healthcare can have on individuals and families. I have a strong interest in all areas of audiology, with particular passions for vestibular testing and treatment, hearing aids, and cochlear implants, and I especially enjoy working with veterans and patients across the lifespan.

Through my clinical experiences and involvement in the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program, I have developed a strong appreciation for interdisciplinary care and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Growing up in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains has also shaped my passion for rural healthcare and expanding access to audiologic services. In the future, I would love to explore opening my own practice in rural North Carolina.

Dr. Brian Harris is a 2005 graduate of the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry and a practicing dentist in Phoenix, AZ. He has been recognized as the Phoenix Magazine Top General Cosmetic Dentist from 2007 – 2021 and AZ Foothills Best Cosmetic Dentist in Scottsdale, AZ. He is also the CEO and founder of www.smilevirtual.com, the leading tele-dentistry platform connecting patients looking to improved their smile with qualified cosmetic dentists around the world, and creator of www.klenproducts.com. Dr Harris is also an international speaker and educator and has lectured more than 250 times in five different countries.

Julie A. Honaker, Ph.D., CCC-A is the Section Head of Audiology, Head and Neck Department, Integrated Surgical Institute, and the Director of the Vestibular and Balance Disorders Program at the Cleveland Clinic. Her passion for vestibular sciences developed during her master’s program in audiology (2001) and Ph.D. (2006) at the University of Cincinnati, followed by a post-doctoral fellowship at the Mayo Clinic (2009). Before joining the Cleveland Clinic in 2016, she was an associate professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where her teaching and research program focused on vestibular and balance sciences. As a clinical researcher, she strives to advance the care of patients with balance disorders. Still, more importantly, she mentors clinicians to become independent and critical thinkers, consumers, and producers of research. Her significant contributions to the field are enhancing audiology students' clinical training and research preparedness.

Dr. Craig Kasper is the Founder & Managing Director of NYHD. He specializes in disorders of the vestibular system, balance optimization, and tinnitus. A Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice, Dr. Kasper has been at the front lines of public education and hearing/balance healthcare service for over 25 years. He completed his Doctorate of Audiology at the University of Florida and earned his master’s degree with clinical honors from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Dr. Kasper completed his Clinical Fellowship and served as a clinician in the Department of Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery at New York-Presbyterian Medical Center. Dr. Kasper is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). Dr. Kasper is a member of the American Balance Society and also earned certification in Performance Breathing from XPT.

He has contributed to scholarly articles that have been published in peer-reviewed journals, including Hearing Research and Laryngoscope. In addition to his professional publication history, he has written informative and educational health/scientific articles for the general public.

Sara Downs is an audiologist and president of the Hearing Wellness Center and Tinnitus Treatment Center, a multi-site practice in northern Minnesota. She has been specializing in the treatment of tinnitus for over 20 years. Also certified in Mind-Body Medicine, she has been teaching self-care to patients and colleagues, weaving the practices into her treatment plans for patients with tinnitus. She has developed the Active Sound Therapy protocol and has recently completed a retrospective study about its efficacy. She served as Interim Executive Director of the American Tinnitus Association from 2023-2034 and still serves as a member of the board of directors. In her spare time she is a roadie and sound engineer for her son’s band. You’re also likely to find her hiking or biking in the woods on any given day.

Mikkel Knudsen has built his career on a simple principle: understand the people you serve and deliver solutions that make a real difference.

As President of ReSound U.S. since 2020, Knudsen leads with a focus on delivering best-in-class hearing technology and unique business solutions tailored to the independent hearing healthcare professionals.

With more than 25 years at ReSound working in a variety of roles with hearing care professionals, Knudsen has cultivated deep, lasting relationships across the industry - many of which have grown into genuine, long-standing friendships. That connection to the dedicated professionals he serves gives him a grounded understanding of what independent practice owners face, and what they need to succeed. It also keeps him personally invested in getting it right.

A graduate of Copenhagen Business College and a native of Denmark, Knudsen relocated to the United States in 2000 and became a U.S. citizen in 2020.

Christina Koehler serves as Director of Clinical Care Delivery within the Market Development and Growth function at Cochlear Americas, where she leads initiatives focused on advancing and scaling cochlear implant care delivery across North America. Her work centers on expanding access to care, developing sustainable clinical delivery models, and strengthening referral pathways that connect more candidates to cochlear implant evaluation and treatment.

Drawing on her prior experience as a Regional Sales Director, Christina brings a unique combination of clinical, commercial, and operational expertise. She has spent her career partnering with physicians, audiologists, health systems, and hearing healthcare professionals, providing her with deep insight into the opportunities and challenges associated with growing access to cochlear implant care while improving the patient experience.

In her current role, Christina collaborates across clinical operations, marketing, sales, and executive leadership to develop innovative approaches that support care delivery, and market growth. Her work is guided by a commitment to creating scalable solutions that help healthcare providers serve more patients while improving access to life-changing hearing technology.

Passionate about expanding access to hearing healthcare, Christina is dedicated to helping ensure that every appropriate candidate has a clear and supported pathway to hearing implant care, enabling more individuals with hearing loss to benefit from the transformative impact of hearing technology.

Mike Lamberson serves as President of Oticon US, where he leads the company's commercial organization and strategy in the United States. With more than three decades of leadership experience spanning MedTech and consumer health, he has built a reputation for accelerating growth, fostering strong partnerships, and developing high-performing teams. Mike is committed to helping hearing care professionals improve patient outcomes through innovative technology and collaborative business partnerships.

Cory Lambertson is a highly experienced professional in the field of additive manufacturing (3D printing). He currently serves as the General Manager of Americas for Asiga, a leading producer of 3D printers, operating from Ann Arbor, Michigan, and bringing over 10 years of experience to the role. Cory began his career in the Dental Laboratory Industry in 2013 at his father’s dental lab, Heartland Dental Laboratory. His background includes significant experience in corporate dentistry, where he first encountered the Asiga brand. Today, he is a prominent industry voice, often discussing the future of 3D printing, focusing on critical topics like material science, open-source printing, and optimizing digital workflows for applications in dentistry.

Director of Human Resources, Sarah has spent her 30+ year career in Human Resources with the objective of linking strategy and employee performance to help businesses achieve a goal driven culture. She has developed recruitment strategies, compensation and benefits structures, training programs, engagement surveys and solutions, performance management processes, employee relations and compliance plans for medical practices, in addition business sectors as higher education, apparel, and banking. Her background is further broadened by the 5 years she spent in the Air Force working on fighter jets. Sarah has written textbook chapters on HR, most recently in 2024 for the Audiology Practice Management Handbook with Brian Taylor and Robert Traynor. In addition to a Master’s Degree in Human Resources that kicked off her career, she has a random degree in Apparel Design from the Art Institute of Portland.

Dr. Jason Leyendecker is an audiologist and business owner. He earned his Bachelor of Science in speech and hearing sciences from Minnesota State University Moorhead and his Doctor of Audiology (AuD) from A.T. Still University in 2010. After starting as an extern at Audiology Concepts, he stayed on and eventually took over the business in 2017, growing it from two to six locations with 25 employees.

He specializes in tinnitus management and runs a clinic that sees patients from around the world. He has also taught a tinnitus course at A.T. Still University and helps train audiology students.

Dr. Leyendecker is currently the past president of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology and has been involved in state and national professional organizations. He speaks at conferences and writes articles on private practice, tinnitus management, and team building. He serves as a subject matter expert for APSO as well as ABA for the tinnitus certificate. In his free time, he enjoys spending time.

David earned his Doctorate in Audiology from NOAC in Kent/Akron Ohio.He began his career at the Cleveland Clinic. David is an account manager for Phonak and has been a practice consultant for Pivot Hearing. Prior to audiology, David made a career as a rock and roll musician, opening for artists such as Cheap Trick, the Ramones, and Collective Soul as well as touring as a headlining act.His love of music and sound led him to audiology, and his passion for helping others has grown ever since. He is a member of MENSA and The International Society of Philosophical Enquiry (ISPE), and his band The Infidels has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

C.J. Loeffler is a sales professional with Warner Tech-care Products, specializing in supporting hearing healthcare providers and labs with the products, technology, and expertise needed to succeed in today’s evolving industry. With a customer-focused approach and strong knowledge of audiology workflows, C.J. works closely with clinics, manufacturers, and lab professionals to help identify solutions that improve efficiency, production, and patient care.

As part of the Warner Tech-care team, C.J. is dedicated to building lasting relationships and providing hands-on support across a wide range of clinical and manufacturing products. From digital workflow solutions and earmold production to everyday clinic essentials, he is passionate about helping customers stay equipped with the right tools and resources to grow their business and deliver quality outcomes.

Oli Luke is a marketing strategist behind some of the most successful private practice hearing care clinics in North America.

After building a digital marketing group and a direct mail company in the UK, Oli met the hearing care industry in 2017. With a small group of clinics across Texas, he implemented several unique industry-first ideas which delivered record results for driving upgrades and online growth (which have seen become industry norms.).

Following demand for further help and ideas, he founded private consultancy group Orange & Gray alongside to partner with a small number of high-performing private practices to help them to accelerate growth, set benchmarks of excellence, and spearhead the future of private practice.

Today, he works with over 90 private practices across the US, Canada, UK and Australia. He’s the host of the Business of Hearing Podcast, the #1 marketing podcast in the industry, and the author of ‘Hello David: How Small Independent Businesses Can Compete.

Brian Meger is the Pharmacy Manager at Minnesota Oncology, where he has been a dedicated member of the team for the past 10 years. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2008. With over a decade of specialized experience in oncology care, Brian brings a deep understanding of cancer pharmacotherapy, patient-centered care, and pharmacy operations. His leadership and commitment have played a key role in advancing pharmacy services and supporting multidisciplinary oncology teams in delivering high-quality care to patients across Minnesota.

Dr. Mehlenbacher is an Audiologist in the VA Healthcare System, Adjuct Associate at Duke University whose research focuses on TBI and Blast injury. He is a Board member on the American Suppressor Association Foundation and American Academy of Audiology and Recently started a business for sound testing of suppressors.

Bill Miller, Au.D., is a clinical audiologist and audiology researcher with more than 13 years of experience spanning direct patient care, outcomes research, and health technology development. Based in San Jose, California, Dr. Miller specializes in the intersection of audiologic science, human factors, and evidence-based practice reform. His research focuses on diagnostic-to-treatment alignment, patient decision-making, and the structural gaps between clinical assessment and real-world hearing outcomes. Dr. Miller advises healthcare organizations and technology companies on user experience design, research program management, and patient-centered product development. He maintains an active clinical practice alongside his work in health technology, bringing a practitioner's perspective to research and product contexts.

Dr. Shea Morgan joined the faculty in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Communicative Disorders in 2018. He graduated from The University of Utah where he earned both his Ph.D. in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology, and his Au.D. Dr. Morgan teaches coursework in Diagnostic Techniques, Pathologies, and Acoustics. His research focuses on how hearing impacts social judgments we make of others (e.g., assessing someone’s emotional state, confidence, gender, etc. based on what we hear). Additionally, he is interested in clinical audiology innovation (clinical audiology simulation, automated audiometry, new treatments for otitis media, etc.). His clinical interests include vestibular testing, intraoperative nerve monitoring, and cochlear implantation.

Nicholas Moyer is an Applications Engineer at Dreve America with a Mechanical Engineering degree from University of North Dakota. He specializes in digital workflow implementation, additive manufacturing, and customer support for Audiology and Dental 3D printing applications across North America. In his current role, he assists customers with workflow setup, troubleshooting, validation of new materials and printers, and provides full-system installation support and technical training.

Over his 4 years at Dreve America, Nicholas has presented and represented Dreve America at several industry events in the U.S. audiology and dental industries to deliver training and support focused on 3D printing applications and digital manufacturing workflows.

Robert Nickoloff earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Minnesota – Duluth in 2018. Following graduation, he completed a nine month contract with 3M's polymer research group before joining the Dreve America Research and Development Team.

Over his first five years at Dreve America, Robert served as a Polymer Chemist, where he focused on developing UV curable materials, 3D printing materials and processes, and various process optimizations for 3D printable medical devices.

In his current role as General Manager, he works closely with the Dreve America Team, as well as the company's vendors and partners, to bring high quality German engineered products to the U.S. audiology and dental industries.

Mike joined WS Audiology (WSA) in 2020 and currently serves as President of WSA-USA Wholesale. He brings more than 25 years of customer-focused, brand-centric leadership experience, with a proven ability to listen, adapt, and deliver solutions that meet evolving customer needs.

Prior to joining WSA, Mike spent several years at EssilorLuxottica, the world’s leading ophthalmic lens and frame manufacturer, where he served as Vice President and General Manager. In this role, he oversaw 23 manufacturing laboratories, led a large national sales organization, and developed new operating models designed to enhance customer experience. Earlier in his career, Mike held senior sales and business unit leadership roles at Dentsply North America and AT&T Wireless Services.

Jonette B. Owen, AuD, is the Associate Program Director for Clinical Education in the Osborne Audiology Department at the Elkins Park Campus of Drexel University in Pennsylvania. Dr. Owen’s experience is multifaceted, having served in clinical and academic settings, including substantial precepting and mentoring of audiologists. In addition to overseeing clinical rotations during the first three years of the program, Dr. Owen manages the educational laboratories and student placements for externships. Dr. Owen holds the rank of Associate Professor, teaching courses in Audiometric Principles, Medical Co-Management of Auditory Diseases, Cerumen Management, Resume Writing and Interviewing to AuD students, and established the Standardized Patient program within the Osborne Audiology Department.

Clinically, Dr. Owen served as a clinical audiologist in multidisciplinary medical groups with hospital privileges and in private practice, where she specialized in advanced diagnostic testing and hearing aid dispensing.

Dr. Owen obtained her AuD from PCO School of Audiology and a Master's degree in Health Administration and Policy from Penn State University. Professional service includes both state and national leadership roles. She is a distinguished fellow of the National Academies of Practice and the recipient of the Osborne College of Audiology Alumna of the Year 2021.

Michael Page, Au.D., has served on the Utah Cochlear Implant Team and as President of the Utah Speech-Language-Hearing Association. His governance and ethics experience includes the Bioethics Committee at Primary Children’s Medical Center and serving as Board Chair for the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

Dr. Page has held adjunct faculty appointments at multiple universities and previously chaired and served on the American Academy of Audiology Ethical Practices Committee and managed the Audiology/Cochlear Implant Program at Primary Children’s Hospital (Salt Lake City). He has also held executive leadership roles in hearing healthcare.

He currently consults with healthcare and educational organizations on ethics, professional boundaries, industry relationships, employee relations, and workplace culture. He holds a Cornell University Certificate in Mediation and Arbitration and authored Audiology Ethics (Plural Publishing, 2026).

Dr. Tabitha Parent Buck was appointed as the founding Chair of the Department of Audiology at A.T. Still University in July 1999. Dr. Parent Buck obtained her B.S. and M.S. degrees in Audiology from Purdue University and her Doctor of Audiology degree from Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Parent Buck has published in the areas of hearing aid technology, otoacoustic emissions, vestibular evaluations and pharmacology. She has conducted numerous presentations on the Au.D. movement, otoacoustic emissions, pharmacology for audiologists, the use of web-based educational tools, frequency compression hearing aids, neuroanatomy, genetics and embryology. Dr. Parent Buck is a Past-President of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology.

Brandon is a Member in Brennan Manna Diamond’s (BMD) Columbus, Ohio office. Brandon counsels businesses, professional associations, and healthcare providers in areas involving financing arrangements, ownership disputes, ethics/licensure, cybersecurity and real estate transactions. Brandon has a national healthcare practice focusing on representation of audiologists and other participants in the hearing healthcare industry. Brandon’s depth of experience on a wide range of matters impacting audiologists provides the knowledge and skill necessary to help his clients navigate complex legal issues in a highly complex industry.

Dr. Elizabeth Perkins is a fellowship trained Neurotologist for both adults and children. She attended Albion College for her undergraduate degree and earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. She completed her residency in Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. She then trained with the Otology Group, one of the top neurotology fellowships in the country, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She then stayed in Nashville, TN as a faculty surgeon, assistant professor, and director of Pediatric Neurotology. While at VUMC, she participated in extensive cochlear implant research and leads the annual International Fall Cochlear Implant meeting.

Dr. Perkins specializes in all aspects of neurotology, including skull base tumors (acoustic neuromas/vestibular schwannomas, meningiomas, etc.), cochlear implants, hearing loss, Meniere’s disease, cholesteatoma, otosclerosis and chronic ear disease. She is passionate about improving her patient’s lives through hearing restoration and treating her patients with compassion and respect. She believes open and honest communication is essential for a strong physician/patient relationship.

She is excited to return to the Midwest and begin her career in Minneapolis with ENT Specialty Care. She loves spending time with her husband, son, and their golden retriever.

Mary Ellen Curran Rancourt, Au.D. has owned a private practice since 2019. She has worked clinically for over 30 years and as a Trainer for 2 hearing aid manufacturers. She was also an adjunct professor at Rhode Island College. She earned her BA at Rutgers University, her MA at the University of Connecticut and her AuD from Salus University. Prior to owning her own practice, she was a director in a hospital where she worked with the Quality Dept on a Failure Mode Error Analysis to improve processes for the newborn screening program. As a Trainer, she had opportunity to assist practices recovering from disaster. Lessons from those experiences built a foundation of preparation. When disaster struck, the practice was well positioned for recovery, but many hard lessons awaited. She has lectured on best practices, collaboration with speech-language pathologists, topics in pediatric and adult amplification and speech science.

Nicholas Reed, Ph.D. is the Vice President, Audiology Research & Innovation, Amplifon. In this global leadership position, Dr. Reed oversee Amplifon’s research initiatives and supports the company’s efforts in audiology and hearing health.

One of the world’s most distinguished researchers in audiology and public health, Dr. Reed’s pioneering work has bridged the gap between clinical audiology and population health. His research has highlighted the critical link between hearing loss and broader healthcare outcomes, including hospital readmission rates and healthcare costs. Dr. Reed holds a Doctor of Audiology degree from Towson University and a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University.

Dr. Annie Rodriguez is an audiologist and Market Development Manager at MED-EL Corporation. She earned her Doctor of Audiology degree from Nova Southeastern University and has a clinical background with a strong focus on cochlear implants. Prior to joining industry, Dr. Rodriguez worked at the University of Miami, where she supported patients and families throughout their hearing journey as part of a multidisciplinary clinical team.

In her current role at MED-EL, Dr. Rodriguez leads market development and expansion initiatives focused on expansion to implant care, strategic partnerships, bimodal hearing, and clinical education. Her work bridges clinical practice and commercial strategy. She develops clinician-facing resources and trainings, supports sales and market expansion efforts, and collaborates cross-functionally to help audiologists integrate new solutions into everyday practice. As a bilingual audiologist, she also brings cultural and linguistic insight to initiatives supporting Spanish-speaking patients and providers.

Dr. Johnny Sabol is the Senior Manager of Business Development at Advanced Bionics, where he has built his career over more than eight years, progressing through roles as a Clinical Specialist, Product Manager for North America, and now the Senior Manager of Business Development. Before joining Advanced Bionics, Johnny practiced as an audiologist, serving at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth and completing an audiology traineeship at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. No matter the role, his work is grounded in a simple but meaningful mission: to help more people hear better, sooner, so they can fully participate in the moments that make life meaningful.

Dr. Sabol earned his Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) from Ohio University, where he also worked as a Graduate Clinician and Graduate Research Assistant in the Auditory Evoked Potentials Lab, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from Kent State University. Johnny's career reflects a steady path from direct clinical care to product and business leadership within the cochlear implant and hearing technology space, giving him a rare blend of hands-on audiological expertise and commercial strategy experience.

Joseph Sakumura received his Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree from the University of Kansas Medical Center. He then went on to complete his residency and clinical training at The American Institute of Balance, specializing in the diagnosis and rehabilitation of balance disorders in children and adults. His specific areas of clinical interests include complex and atypical BPPV, vestibular migraine and the psychosocial aspects related vestibular disorders.

Joe has a wide range of experience and expertise in the scientific, medical, and business development aspects of vestibular practice, and is a published author and invited speaker globally on the topics of vestibular and human equilibrium.

Carrie Spangler, Au.D., is Executive Director of the American Cochlear Implant Alliance. A deaf/hard of hearing audiologist and cochlear implant user, she brings more than 28 years of experience in audiology, advocacy, and program leadership supporting individuals and families across the cochlear implant journey. Her work focuses on advancing research, awareness, and access to cochlear implantation, and she is passionate about strengthening collaboration between audiologists, surgeons, consumers, and the broader healthcare community to improve outcomes for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Alicia D.D. Spoor, Au.D. is President and Audiologist of Designer Audiology, LLC in Highland, MD. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University and earned her Doctor of Audiology degree from Gallaudet University. She completed her fourth-year externship at the Mayo Clinic Arizona and joined the hearing aid and cochlear implant teams before moving back to Maryland. She opened her own practice in 2014 with an unbundled/itemized pricing structure, one of the first in the nation to do so from day one, to benefit the patient and demonstrate the value of the audiologist. Dr. Spoor is a Past President of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA) and Maryland Academy of Audiology (MAA); she is the current ADA Advocacy Chair and MAA Legislative Chair. Alicia is a past recipient of ADA’s Craig W. Johnson Advocacy Award and MSU’s College of Communication Arts & Sciences’ Outstanding Alumni.

Wisconsin-based audiologist and TEDx speaker Juliëtte Sterkens has more than four decades of experience in audiology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. Since 2012, when she retired from private practice in Oshkosh, WI, she’s been an assistive listening technology consultant to the Hearing Loss Association of America, thanks to special grant funding. She has received several awards for her work, including AAA’s Presidential Award, ADA’s Leo Doerfler Award, and the Wisconsin Audiologist of the Year Award. She serves on the board of HEAR-in-the-Fox Cities, a non-profit that helps pay for hearing aids for children in Northeast Wisconsin.

Dr. Alexandra Tarvin is the founder of Elevate Audiology, a private practice in Easley, SC, dedicated to evidence-based practice, exceptional and personalized patient care, and a supportive company culture. She specializes in evaluating and treating hearing disorders, fitting hearing aids, tinnitus counseling and management, and sound sensitivity management. Dr. Tarvin holds a Doctor of Audiology degree from the University of South Florida and is American Board of Audiology Certified.

She currently serves as Director-at-Large for the Academy of Doctors of Audiology and is a Past President of the South Carolina Academy of Audiology. Dr. Tarvin is a past recipient of ADA’s Craig W. Johnson Advocacy Award and has presented at multiple state and national conferences. Dr. Tarvin resides in Greenville, SC with her family, and enjoys jigsaw puzzles and crafting in her free time.

Susan Taulia is the owner of a large private practice in Lafayette, Indiana. She is passionate about treating hearing loss to the highest abilities of our profession and public hearing access. She has worked as an instructor, both academically and clinically, at the University of Mississippi and at Purdue University. She is truly inspired by the potential for Auracast to change the experience of people with hearing loss in public spaces worldwide.

Brian Taylor is the VP of Clinical Research and Professional Relations at Neurotone. He is also an adjuct professor at the University of Wisconsin and serves as the editor of Audiology Practices.

Chelsea has spent her entire career in medical device Sales & Marketing roles. Chelsea’s first experience in the hearing care industry (outside of alphabetizing files in her parent’s audiology practice as a kid) was at InSound Medical where she was part of the original team who launched Lyric, the world’s 1st invisible hearing aid. Chelsea spent a number of years there and also at Phonak after they acquired InSound. Chelsea has also worked in marketing roles in other medical device industries, including diabetes, dental, orthodontic, and more. Chelsea has a B.A. in Communication Sciences & Disorders from California State University, Chico (2005) and an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan Flagler Business School (2014). After hours, Chelsea likes to keep working and spend time with her family.

Melanie Vazquez-Ponce is a second-year Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) student at Syracuse University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from Iona University. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and expanding her communication skills through American Sign Language (ASL). As a first-generation Mexican American, Melanie’s personal and family experiences have shaped her appreciation for culturally and linguistically accessible communication, family support, and individualized hearing care. Her clinical interests include cochlear implants, adult diagnostic and rehabilitative audiology, central auditory processing disorder, and tinnitus management. She hopes to one day own a private audiology practice that provides comprehensive, accessible, and inclusive hearing healthcare to patients across the lifespan.

Dr. Wenger earned dual undergraduate degrees in Communication Science and Disorders and French from the University of Pittsburgh, followed by her doctorate in Audiology in 2012 from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. With clinical audiology experience that spans newborn hearing screening to the VA system, Dr. Wenger has been at the Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Clinic in Edina, Minnesota since 2024 where she enjoys working with patients from across the United States on tinnitus and sound sensitivity management using Tinnitus Retraining Therapy and Lenire. She has presented at local, state, and national audiology conferences, served on interdisciplinary state and national committees, and taught undergraduate and graduate audiology courses.

Knox Williams is the President and Executive Director of the American Suppressor Association (ASA), a non-profit dedicated to firearm suppressor advocacy and education. Since founding ASA in 2011, he has played a pivotal role in the elimination of the $200 transfer tax on suppressors through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the dramatic reduction in wait times for all items regulated under the National Firearms Act, and the enactment of dozens of pro-suppressor laws across the country.

Dr. Yeh is a healthcare innovator and passionate ambassador for healthy aging and vibrant living. Her career has spanned the breadth of the healthcare ecosystem, from providers, payers, and regulators to patients, families, and caregivers. With an abiding focus on the “how to,” her ability to translate aspiration into sustainable transformation helps organizations change, grow, and thrive.

A Board-certified Emergency Physician, Dr. Yeh served most recently as Chief Medical Officer for AARP Services, Inc. Other leadership roles have included Regional Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Boston; Medical Director for the National Heritage Insurance Company, a Medicare Part B claims contractor; and Chief of Emergency Medicine at Newton-Wellesley Hospital and Tufts Medical Center. Currently, Dr. Yeh is a part-time advisor and Chief Experience Officer for Cherish. In addition, she founded Yeh Innovation, through which she continues to pursue her deep commitment to patient-centered care, advocacy for the consumer voice in healthcare, and celebration of the vibrancy of aging. She advises a select number of companies and organizations within her portfolio who share her strategic vision, people-first values, and quest for operational excellence—finding together new ways to ignite innovation, improve health outcomes, and transform lives.