Since the very day I entered the hearing industry, I knew hearing had the power to make a great impact on countless people around the world. I learned quickly you can’t take a one-size-fits-all approach when treating individual hearing loss. I felt an instant connection and compassion for each patient I had the privilege of interacting with. I knew the future of hearing health could have a deeper, more personal meaning for everyone. I wanted Starkey to lead the way in making this vision a reality and give something important back to the world.

I have always known my wife, Tani Austin, to be extremely compassionate. She has a giving spirit that everyone is better for having been around. Her passion for helping others through hearing health education, resources and giving back to communities in need inspires me and has kept me grounded all these years.

As Chief Philanthropy Officer at Starkey, Tani has shown us all what it means to lead with heart and to have deep compassion for other people. As we begin a new chapter with Starkey Cares, we will be able to continue giving back by bringing hearing health resources to our local communities in need. The Starkey Family is committed to making an impact in our world. I can’t think of a better person to have by my side to share this compassion to uplift those with hearing loss.

There is an energy that exists when people are given the gift of hearing. Sharing these moments with others, and together with Tani, has allowed me to understand firsthand how big of an impact we as individuals can make. When we come together with a common goal, that power is even greater. As the only American-owned hearing aid manufacturer, we have a responsibility to use that power to help others.

These moments are what have inspired us countless times through our work together. When someone is given the gift of hearing, it’s their loved ones and their communities that feel the positive impact. That’s why we continue this work any way we can, because it matters to every single person who comes in contact with it.

There is no better time to reflect on the importance of our hearing health and giving back than during a global pandemic. A lot has changed about the way we live our lives, but the importance of our connection to loved ones and the world around us remains vital to our wellbeing and happiness. Hearing is essential. When I reflect on what we’ve accomplished and what’s left to be done, we’re doing this so people can hear better and live richer lives. We have worked to create a legacy of compassion, one that I hope continues long beyond our time. As individuals and together at Starkey, we have a responsibility to harness the power we each have to make the world a better place through our work.