In this episode of Live Out Loud, Kyler sits down with his audiologist, Dr. Rachel Bringewatt, for an honest and informative conversation about cochlear implants. Together, they break down common misconceptions, discuss what the recovery process really looks like, and share what patients can expect throughout their cochlear implant journey.

Whether you’re considering a cochlear implant, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about hearing technology, this episode offers clear, compassionate insights from both the patient and provider perspectives.

• The most common myths and misconceptions about cochlear implants
• What to expect before, during, and after surgery
• How recovery truly feels — physically and emotionally
• Tips for setting realistic expectations and staying motivated
• Why every CI journey is unique

Dr. Rachel Bringewatt is a board-certified audiologist with over 21 years of experience. A Midwest native, she earned her Master’s from Wichita State University and her Doctor of Audiology from Salus University. Her career has taken her through ENT clinics across Texas, Nebraska, and the Gulf Coast, where she has specialized in balance disorders, educational audiology, and managing audiology departments. She has also worked with a major hearing aid manufacturer.

Dr. Bringewatt is passionate about empowering patients through personalized treatment and education. She has a special interest in hearing conservation for musicians.

In the very first episode of Live Out Loud, host Kyler Mentzel sits down with someone who’s been by his side through it all — his wife, Bria.

Bria opens up about the day everything changed — when a baseball injury left Kyler with a severe concussion and complete hearing loss in his right ear. She shares what those first few days were like, the emotions that came with the unknown, and how their faith helped them navigate the challenges that followed.

Together, Kyler and Bria talk about the life-changing moment they discovered the possibility of a cochlear implant, and how Autumn Oak Speech, Voice, and Hearing played a crucial role in Kyler’s recovery and rehabilitation journey.

This episode gives listeners a heartfelt look at hearing loss from a spouse’s perspective — the fears, the prayers, and the victories that come with rediscovering sound and hope.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• Bria’s emotional retelling of the day of Kyler’s injury
• How their family leaned on faith and community support
• The role Autumn Oak played in helping Kyler regain his hearing
• What life looks like now — and what “living out loud” really means

💬 Listen, follow, and share if you or someone you love has been impacted by hearing loss — and remember, no matter what life brings, you can always choose to Live Out Loud