Wax and Whiskey

The Bald Hearing Guy
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship

A Hearing Aid Practice owner unwinding with some bourbon and sharing some fun stories about Hearing Loss, Entrepreneurship, and the curve balls that we face working in a Hearing Aid Office. 

  1. Oct 9

    Ep. 14 - Keeping It Real: What They Don’t Tell You About Hearing Care

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when two independent hearing care professionals, two longtime friends, and one bottle of Blanton’s sit down and talk about what’s really happening in the hearing industry? In this episode of Wax & Whiskey, Jaysee A. Soto, HAS, BC-HIS, aka The Bald Hearing Guy, sits down with Gabriel Rodriguez, HAS, owner of Digital Hearing Lab in Kissimmee, Florida. Gabriel is more than a colleague. He’s one of Jaysee’s closest friends and one of the people who inspired him to leave the traditional path and build an independent hearing care practice of his own. After nearly 10 years of running an independent practice, Gabriel has plenty to say about where the hearing industry is headed, and whether patients are actually better off today. We get into the uncomfortable stuff: hearing aids being sold online, managed care and so-called “discounts,” patients bypassing providers, unregistered devices, custom hearing aids, manufacturer relationships, corporate chains, AI, marketing, and the constant battle between independent practices and the big guys. But this conversation goes beyond hearing aids. We talk about building a name for yourself, losing patients, family, burnout, chasing money, knowing your worth, being authentic, and why healthcare providers need to stop hiding behind their businesses and tell their own story. And yes, there’s plenty of bourbon along the way. In This Episode 00:00 Cold open — Everything in life is a sale 00:59 Welcome to Wax & Whiskey — Meet Gabriel Rodriguez 01:59 The Blanton's 03:59 10 years of Digital Hearing Lab in Kissimmee 05:59 Leaving the corporate world to open his own practice 08:59 Are patients better off today? 11:59 First time in custom Phonak Virto 14:59 Managed care and insurance “discounts” 18:59 Buying hearing aids online — skipping the provider 22:59 A patient who bought online — true story 26:59 Unregistered hearing aids 28:59 David vs. Goliath — small practices 30:59 AI, marketing and prescription devices 34:59 Opting out of managed care 37:59 Make a name for yourself 39:59 Losing a patient 40:59 Family and burnout 42:59 Don't chase the money 44:59 Sales is a treatment plan 50:59 Your brand vs. the corporation 52:59 Manufacturers and managed care 54:59 Latino-run practices — being yourself 57:59 Don't sign with a manufacturer 59:59 Corporate chains and a licensing story 1:03:59 Why independent practices matter 1:04:59 Tell your story — closing Today's Spirit 🥃 Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon This episode isn't just about hearing aids. It's about independence, entrepreneurship, patient care, and having the courage to build something that actually feels like you. If you're a hearing care professional, practice owner, entrepreneur, or someone who simply wants to understand what's happening behind the scenes in the hearing industry, this one is for you. #WaxAndWhiskey #BaldHearingGuy #HearingAids #HearingCare #Audiology #HearingHealthcare #IndependentBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Healthcare #HearingLoss #BusinessOwnership #PersonalBranding #Marketing #Bourbon #Blantons Keywords: audiology, hearing aids, hearing care, bourbon, Blanton's, business ownership, independent hearing practice, patient stories, hearing technology, healthcare, managed care, insurance, hearing aids online, custom hearing aids, AI hearing aids, social media, personal branding, marketing, entrepreneurship, authenticity, independent business, Wax and Whiskey, Bald Hearing Guy, Digital Hearing Lab Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

  2. Sep 14

    Ep. 13 - A Hearing Aid Specialist & an Audiologist Walk Into a Bar… | Part 2

    Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Hearing Aid Specialist Jaysee Soto, HAS, BC-HIS, and Audiologist Dr. Leigh Smith, Au.D., sit down over a drink for a candid conversation about what it’s really like to run a hearing healthcare practice. We get into the things that don’t always get talked about: hiring and managing staff, dealing with managed care, companies like HearUSA that are built around managed care, the differences between Hearing Aid Specialists and Audiologists, and what happens when providers don’t follow best practices. We also talk about the realities of hearing aid sales, why sales can actually be job security in audiology, the consequences of hiring the wrong employee, and the imposter syndrome that can come with owning and growing a business. Along the way, we get into the business relationships that shape our industry, including the important reminder that manufacturers are not really our friends. At the end of the day, business is business. They can be friendly, but they will also open their own store in your neighborhood and try to beat you while smiling in your face.  This is an honest, sometimes uncomfortable, and hopefully entertaining conversation about the hearing industry, running a practice, and the challenges that come with trying to do things the right way. Grab a drink and join us. This is Part 2 so be sure to listen to Episode 12 first.  Today's Spirit: Jack Daniels Single Barrel Heritage Barrel Keywords: hearing healthcare, private practice, industry insights, business growth, audiology, hearing aids, entrepreneurship, managed care, industry challenges audiology, private practice, licensing, scope of practice, hearing aids, VA, audiology education, entrepreneurship, healthcare industry, professional development, Hearing Aid Specialists, Audiologists. Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

  3. Aug 10

    Ep. 12 - A Hearing Aid Specialist & an Audiologist Walk Into a Bar… | Part 1

    Send us Fan Mail  In this conversation, Hearing Aid Specialist Jaysee Soto, HAS, BC-HIS, and Audiologist Dr. Leigh Smith, Au.D., sit down over a drink for a candid conversation about what it’s really like to run a hearing healthcare practice. We get into the things that don’t always get talked about: hiring and managing staff, dealing with managed care, companies like HearUSA that are built around managed care, the differences between Hearing Aid Specialists and Audiologists, and what happens when providers don’t follow best practices. We also talk about the realities of hearing aid sales, why sales can actually be job security in audiology, the consequences of hiring the wrong employee, and the imposter syndrome that can come with owning and growing a business. Along the way, we get into the business relationships that shape our industry, including the important reminder that manufacturers are not really our friends. At the end of the day, business is business. They can be friendly, but they will also open their own store in your neighborhood and try to beat you while smiling in your face.  This is an honest, sometimes uncomfortable, and hopefully entertaining conversation about the hearing industry, running a practice, and the challenges that come with trying to do things the right way. Grab a drink and join us. This is Part 1 of 2. Today's Spirit: Jack Daniels Single Barrel Heritage Barrel Keywords: hearing healthcare, private practice, industry insights, business growth, audiology, hearing aids, entrepreneurship, managed care, industry challenges audiology, private practice, licensing, scope of practice, hearing aids, VA, audiology education, entrepreneurship, healthcare industry, professional development, Hearing Aid Specialists, Audiologists. Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

  4. Jun 17

    Ep. 11 - Personal Branding Beats Big Brands

    Send us Fan Mail In our latest chat, Oli emphasized the importance of not advertising like big businesses. Instead, focus on who you're talking to. It's about connecting with your audience on a personal level, not just broadcasting to the masses. By understanding your ideal patients and tailoring your message to them, you create a more meaningful impact. It's not about being the loudest; it's about being the most relevant. Shift your focus from trying to be the biggest to being the best for your audience. That's where true growth happens. Ready to take your audiology practice to the next level? Comment your email below to book a discovery call with the Orange & Gray Marketing team and learn how they help practices generate more leads, increase patient appointments, and accelerate growth. #MarketingWisdom #PatientConnection #LocalBiz #OrangeAndGray #PersonalBranding #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessTruths #HustleAndFlow #CapitalizeOnYourWork #OwnYourJourney #marketing Today's Spirit: Michter's Small Batch Bourbon ( Didn't get to review it on this one but it was amazing) Keywords audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

  5. Jun 5

    Ep. 10 - The Cost of Success: What Owners Endure Behind the Scenes

    Send us Fan Mail Ever wonder what separates a true entrepreneur from everyone else? Drop a 🔥 if you've felt this. I've built a business from nothing — working late nights, taking all the risks, and carrying the weight of everything on my shoulders. Employee's can sometimes see revenue and think they are profits. They don't understand a profit and loss or a EBITDA. They can see the wins but don't know about all of the losses. So when they tie the business revenue as a reason to request unreasonable wages you can sometimes look like the bad guy explaining that the business will not pay a significant amount over the reasonable positions wage cap. The owner has to protect the business and reinvest profits for more growth and better systems. Also, when the rainy days come around the employees will not be the ones bailing the business out.   Here’s a truth: You didn’t get those results from work you didn’t do. Entrepreneurship is a solo race — the grind, the risks, the sleepless nights. Nobody else is in your shoes.Support your team, pay them well, and celebrate their effort—but remember, you're the one who built the foundation.  If you’re thinking about going solo, just know: the darkness is real before the dawn — but so is the reward.Worth thinking about.What’s your biggest challenge as a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur? Drop below 👇  And tag a fellow entrepreneur who needs this reminder today. #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessTruths #HustleAndFlow #CapitalizeOnYourWork #OwnYourJourney Today's Spirit: Penelope Toasted Bourbon Small Batch Keywords audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

  6. Apr 25

    Ep. 9 - The Long Game: Winning in Business with Patience and Discipline

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Wax and Whiskey, host Jaysee 'Bald Hearing Guy' Soto HAS, BC-HIS highlights how most entrepreneurs feel like they’re grinding in the dark until one small shift changes everything. Jaysee shares how perseverance, smart delegation, and strong values drive real growth, even through a pandemic. From zero patients and no loans to industry awards, Jaysee breaks down his journey of resilience and hustle. He explains how he launched just before COVID-19 and built a thriving practice by focusing on quality, relationships, and never cutting corners. You’ll learn:  Why patience and long-term thinking lead to lasting success  The risks of over-promising and how realistic expectations boost satisfaction  How delegating and hiring well prevents burnout and enables growth  Why saying no to low-margin work protects your value  Practical tips for systems, competition, and professionalism If you’re feeling stuck or stretched thin, this episode is a reminder that success is a marathon.  Looking for real insight you can apply today? Tune in. Today's Spirit: Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 7 year Keywords audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

  7. Feb 17

    Ep.8 - Don't let imposter syndrome stop you from starting.

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Wax and Whiskey, host Jaysee 'Bald Hearing Guy' Soto HAS, BC-HIS shares his journey into the world of social media marketing, emphasizing the importance of overcoming imposter syndrome and just starting to create content. He encourages listeners to utilize their smartphones and simple equipment to begin sharing their expertise, regardless of their industry. Jaysee discusses how social media can be a powerful lead generation tool, often more effective than traditional methods like Google ads. He reflects on his own experiences, highlighting the positive feedback he has received and the connections he has made through his online presence. The conversation also delves into him emphasizes the significance of authenticity in content creation, urging listeners to be themselves and share their stories. By doing so, they can connect with their audience on a deeper level, ultimately leading to greater success in their respective fields. Jaysee wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of taking action and not overthinking the process of getting on camera and sharing one's voice. Today's Spirit: Makers Mark 46 french oaked Keywords audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey, social media marketing, imposter syndrome, content creation, lead generation, bourbon tasting, Wax and Whiskey, entrepreneurship, authenticity, marketing tips Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better. Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

  8. Jan 4

    7. We Started Talking and Forgot to Stop (The Edit That Almost Broke Me)

    Send us Fan Mail Disclaimer: This insanely long episode is mainly for our friends and family who are curious about what Mr. and Mrs. Bald Hearing Guy think about the Hearing Aid industry.  The "First Lady" of Hearing (and the Edit from Hell) 🥃👂 I finally convinced my wife, Grace, to be my first guest on Wax and Whiskey—and we had so much to say it almost broke the podcast! This episode took me forever to edit because once we start talking, we literally cannot stop. It was so intense I nearly retired my headphones in 2025, but the conversation was too good to leave on the cutting room floor. In this episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on: Power Couple Dynamics: How we run a family business without losing our minds (mostly).The "Secret Sauce": Why being family-owned beats the corporate giants every time.Industry Truths: Navigating a female-driven industry and the tech that’s changing lives.Behind the Scenes: The passion, the chaos, and the whiskey that keeps it all moving.We’re closing out the 2025 editing nightmare with a bang and taking the lessons into 2026. If you want to know what it’s really like to live, love, and work in the hearing world, this one is for you. Today's Spirit: Elijah Craig small batch Keywords Audiology, hearing aids, bourbon, business ownership, patient stories, technology, healthcare, insurance, social media, personal journey. Support the show  Pour a Glass, Tune In, Hear Better.

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About

A Hearing Aid Practice owner unwinding with some bourbon and sharing some fun stories about Hearing Loss, Entrepreneurship, and the curve balls that we face working in a Hearing Aid Office. 

Information

  • Creator
    The Bald Hearing Guy
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wax and Whiskey
  • Show Website
    Wax and Whiskey