Sean Mark Shares Key Insights from International Hearing Society Training
This September, Sean Mark, founder of Pure Sound Hearing Aids, traveled to Indianapolis for a three-day training event with the International Hearing Society (IHS). The sessions were designed to bring hearing care professionals together to exchange knowledge, learn about new research, and stay ahead of the innovations shaping our industry.
Sean successfully completed the course and brought back valuable insights to share with our team and patients here at Pure Sound.




Keynote Presentation by Dr. Keith N. Darrow
One of the featured speakers was Dr. Keith N. Darrow, a Harvard Medical School and M.I.T. trained neuroscientist, clinical audiologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner – Trainer, and Director of Treatment at AuDExperts.
Dr. Darrow’s presentation focused on:
- Tinnitus treatment strategies – he shared new fitting techniques and best practices based on his extensive clinical studies and research.
- The connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline, emphasizing the critical role hearing care plays in protecting long-term brain health.
- Research and innovation – his work at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary has been cited over 1,250 times and continues to shape how providers approach hearing loss and tinnitus care.
Panel Discussion: Leaders Shaping Hearing Care
The conference also included an engaging panel discussion featuring some of the most influential leaders in the hearing health industry. Each panelist brought a unique perspective on innovation, accessibility, and the future of hearing technology.
Industry Experts Who Spoke:
- Emiliano Di Vincenzo – Executive Vice President Americas, Amplifon. With a background in global brand development at Burger King, PepsiCo, and Gatorade, Emiliano now focuses on driving growth and innovation in hearing care across the Americas.
- David Molella – President of Beltone North America. A long-time industry veteran, David has led consistent growth in hearing aid technology and services throughout the U.S. and Canada.
- John R. Luna – Executive Advisor, EssilorLuxottica. A trailblazer in smart eyewear and hearing aid integration, John helped secure FDA clearance for the first software-based hearing aid built into smart glasses.
- Bridget Sobek Dobyan – Executive Director of the Hearing Industries Association (HIA). With a background in law and public policy, Bridget advocates for accessibility and affordability in hearing care nationwide.
- Jessica DeFauw – Senior Director of Business Development, Oticon. With over 20 years of experience in clinical audiology and practice management, Jessica helps practices thrive while bringing the latest Oticon solutions to patients.
- Jimena Garcia Vela – Vice President of Commercial Sales, Sonova. With international leadership experience, Jimena is helping Sonova expand innovation and access across North and South America.
- Brandon Sawalich – President & CEO of Starkey. A recognized industry leader, Brandon is pushing the boundaries of innovation with Starkey’s global team of 6,000 employees across 29 countries.
- Mike O’Neil – President, U.S. Wholesale at WS Audiology. With a customer-focused approach, Mike is leading advancements in hearing care distribution and partnerships.




Bringing Innovation Back to Pure Sound
The event was not only informative but also energizing. Sean found the sessions highly engaging and is excited to bring the latest research, technologies, and treatment strategies back to Pure Sound Hearing Aids.
At Pure Sound, our mission is to provide the highest level of care to our patients. By staying connected to global leaders in hearing health, we ensure our clients receive the most advanced solutions available—from effective tinnitus fitting strategies to innovations that protect brain health through better hearing.