How does one navigate the intricate world of deaf advocacy and cochlear implants? Join us as Dr. Jessica Hissam, a distinguished deaf advocate and executive director of the Center of Advancement of Next Gen Deaf, shares her profound life story. Born deaf and diagnosed late due to the absence of newborn hearing screenings in 1993, Dr. Hissam's journey underscores the paramount importance of early pediatric hearing screenings. From different types of hearing loss to the critical urgency of treatment, Dr. Hissam's insights illuminate the complex landscape of deafness and the pressing need for education and advocacy.

Discover the essential elements of language acquisition and bilingual education for deaf children, as Dr. Hissam unpacks the systemic barriers that families often face. Through the inspiring story of a mother fighting for her deaf daughter's right to bilingual education, we learn about the resilience and determination required to challenge and change societal expectations. Additionally, Dr. Hissam guides us through the intricate decision-making process surrounding cochlear implants, explaining the importance of understanding audiograms, the "speech banana," and the technological advancements that can drastically improve quality of life for those with hearing impairments.

We also delve into the multi-faceted role of audiologists and the critical timelines for early hearing identification. Dr. Hissam highlights the gaps in insurance coverage and the necessity of specialized training for audiologists to ensure effective care. By addressing the intersection of physical health and compassionate care, this episode sheds light on the broader challenges within the deaf community, from identity and advocacy to the pressing need for inclusive policies and equitable access to hearing care. Tune in for a rich, educational, and deeply personal conversation that champions the cause of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Follow Jessica here:
https://www.instagram.com/jess.hsquared/

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Have you ever wondered how someone transitions from the world of big pharma to becoming a local celebrity and lifestyle content creator? This episode features the incredible journey of Kenny from Huntsville, Alabama, who shares her inspiring story of pivoting during the pandemic to launch Huntsville Content Creators. Her passion for supporting local businesses through food reviews, coupled with her role as a wife, mom, and business owner, makes for an engaging and heartfelt conversation. Plus, Kenny opens up about the importance of mental health and vulnerability in the creative process.

Navigating the world of freelancing and business ownership comes with its own set of challenges, and our discussion provides practical advice on key issues like setting prices and managing client relationships. She also shares her personal journey of being a multimedia design graduate struggling to find a job, to becoming a freelance content creator. From understanding the complexities of taxes to establishing an LLC, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to make a similar career transition while staying true to their creative vision.

Content creation isn't just about posting pretty pictures—it's an emotional journey filled with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and balancing a full-time job. Kenny and I delve into the importance of community and support, discussing how Huntsville Content Creators became a vital resource for local creatives. We also touch on the power of structure, consistency, and the influence of inspirational figures like Deanna, Jessica, Tasha, and Michelle. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just starting out, this episode is packed with lessons on embracing authenticity, maintaining a positive social media environment, and committing to your creative goals.

Find Kenny here:
https://www.instagram.com/_thatskenny/

Find Huntsville Content Creators here:
https://www.instagram.com/hsvcontentcreators/

You can now send us a text to ask a question or review the show. We would love to hear from you!

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#142: Ever wondered what it was like to navigate the wild, unregulated internet of the 90s? Join Ivy and me, as we share laugh-out-loud stories from our risky adventures in early chat rooms and AIM, where Ivy, under the alias "Skater Girl 98," lied about her age to seem cooler. From dodging the hazards of Limewire to the exhilaration of chatting with strangers, we marvel at how we emerged unscathed from those digital escapades. Tune in for a light-hearted, nostalgic look back at our youthful misadventures and the lessons we learned.

But that’s not all—our conversation continues as we reminisce about the evolution of communication technology from landline phone calls to the era of texting on T9 keyboards. Reflecting on how our generation straddled both the pre- and post-digital divides, we share cringe-worthy tales from our rebellious teenage years, including an ill-fated attempt to sneak off to a heavy metal concert. This episode is filled with humor, nostalgia, and a reflection on how communication and teenage defiance have evolved. Don’t miss out on these entertaining anecdotes as we take a trip down memory lane!

You can now send us a text to ask a question or review the show. We would love to hear from you!

Follow me on social: https://www.instagram.com/babbles_nonsense/