Healthy To A Hundred: Dr Hunter Gerhart of Livingston Hearing Aid Center On 5 Things You Need To Live A Long, Healthy, & Happy Life
An Interview With Savio P. Clemente
Social Connections: Maintaining strong social ties supports mental and emotional health, which is linked to better hearing health. Helen Keller expressed that, “Blindness cuts us off from things; deafness cuts us off from people … to be cut off from hearing [people] is to be isolated indeed.”*
The term Blue Zones has been used to describe places where people live long and healthy lives. What exactly does it take to live a long and healthy life? What is the science and the secret behind longevity and life extension? In this series, we are talking to medical experts, wellness experts, and longevity experts to share “5 Things You Need To Live A Long, Healthy, & Happy Life”. As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Dr. Hunter Gerhart.
Dr. Hunter Gerhart began his career in audiology more than a decade ago. He majored at Texas Tech University to focus on becoming an audiologist. Now, as Director of Audiology for a multi-state provider group, he manages operations across several office locations, working closely with each office to support patients along their hearing health journey.
Thank you so much for joining us! Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’?
I have always been passionate about helping people, and my interest in audiology began when a close family member experienced hearing loss. Witnessing the impact of hearing loss on their quality of life inspired me to pursue a career in audiology. I studied hard, obtained my degree, and have been dedicated to improving the hearing health of my patients ever since.
Can you share with us the most interesting story from your career? Can you tell us what lessons or ‘takeaways’ you learned from that?
One of the most memorable moments in my career was helping my grandmother improve her hearing with hearing aids. The joy on her face and her heartfelt reaction were unforgettable. This experience underscored the profound impact of our work and highlighted the importance of perseverance, empathy, and continuous learning in the field of audiology.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
I am incredibly grateful to my mentor during my internship, with Hillary Taylor, Au.D. She not only taught me the technical skills but also instilled the importance of compassionate patient care. Her guidance during a challenging case where we had to customize a unique hearing solution for a patient was invaluable.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Empathy: Understanding my patients’ experiences and challenges has been crucial. I recall a patient who felt isolated due to hearing loss, and through empathetic communication, we found the right solution to improve their social interactions.
Persistence: The field of audiology often requires trial and error to find the best hearing solutions. I worked with a patient for months to fine-tune their hearing aids, and our persistence paid off when they finally felt comfortable and happy with the results.
Lifelong Learning: Staying updated with the latest advancements is essential. I regularly attend workshops and seminars to ensure my patients benefit from the newest technologies and techniques.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of our interview about health and longevity. To begin, can you share with our readers a bit about why you are an authority in the fields of health, wellness, and longevity? In your opinion, what is your unique contribution to the world of wellness?
As an audiologist, I specialize in improving hearing health, which is a critical aspect of overall wellness and quality of life. My unique contribution is my holistic approach to audiology, integrating hearing health with overall physical and mental well-being. I believe that maintaining good hearing is essential for a fulfilling and healthy life.
Seekers throughout history have traveled great distances and embarked on mythical quests in search of the “elixir of life,” a mythical potion said to cure all diseases and give eternal youth. Has your search for health, vitality, and longevity taken you on any interesting paths or journeys? We’d love to hear the story.
My career with Livingston Hearing Aid Center has taken me to numerous places around the country, each journey offering unique insights into health, vitality, and longevity. One particularly enlightening experience was an American Academy of Audiology conference, where I learned about innovative approaches to hearing care that integrate nutrition, exercise, and mental health. This reinforced the importance of incorporating lifestyle factors into hearing care, emphasizing that a holistic approach is essential for optimal health and well-being.
Based on your research or experience, can you please share your “5 Things You Need To Live A Long & Healthy Life”? (Please share a story or an example for each)
Regular Hearing Check-ups: Early detection of hearing issues can prevent further deterioration. I had a patient who, through regular check-ups, managed to maintain their hearing health effectively.
Healthy Diet: Proper nutrition supports overall health, including hearing health. I advise my patients to include foods rich in vitamins and minerals that support auditory health.
Active Lifestyle: Physical activity improves blood flow, including to the ears. I’ve seen patients with active lifestyles experience slower hearing loss progression.
Mental Stimulation: Engaging in activities that challenge the brain can help maintain cognitive function and auditory processing.
Social Connections: Maintaining strong social ties supports mental and emotional health, which is linked to better hearing health. Helen Keller expressed that, “Blindness cuts us off from things; deafness cuts us off from people … to be cut off from hearing [people] is to be isolated indeed.”*
Can you suggest a few things needed to live a life filled with happiness, joy, and meaning?
Building strong relationships, staying curious and open to new experiences, practicing gratitude, and taking care of your health, including hearing health, are essential for a fulfilling life.
Some argue that longevity is genetic, while others say that living a long life is simply a choice. What are your thoughts on this nature vs. nurture debate? Which is more important?
Both genetics and lifestyle choices play significant roles. While we can’t change our genetic predisposition, we can certainly influence our health and longevity through healthy choices, regular check-ups, and a positive mindset.
Life sometimes takes us on paths that are challenging. How have you managed to bounce back from setbacks in order to cultivate physical, mental, and emotional health?
I focus on maintaining a balanced lifestyle, seeking support from my family and colleagues, and continually educating myself. Embracing mindfulness and self-care practices also helps me stay resilient.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life?
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” This quote by Steve Jobs resonates with me deeply. My passion for audiology has driven me to overcome challenges and strive for excellence in patient care.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
I would start a movement to promote hearing health awareness globally. Educating people about the importance of hearing care and providing access to hearing health services can significantly improve quality of life and overall well-being.
What is the best way for our readers to continue to follow your work online?
Livingston Hearing Aid Center Website
Souce:
*Christie J. Helen Keller. In: Gallaudet Encyclopedia of Deaf People and Deafness. Vol 2. New York: McGraw-Hill; 1987:125.
This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent on this. We wish you only continued success.
About The Interviewer: Savio P. Clemente, TEDx speaker and Stage 3 cancer survivor, infuses transformative insights into every article. His journey battling cancer fuels a mission to empower survivors and industry leaders towards living a truly healthy, wealthy, and wise lifestyle. As a Board-Certified Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC, ACC), Savio guides readers to embrace self-discovery and rewrite narratives by loving their inner stranger, as outlined in his acclaimed TEDx talk: “7 Minutes to Wellness: How to Love Your Inner Stranger.” From his best-selling book to his impactful work as a media journalist covering resilience and wellness trends with notable celebrities and TV personalities, Savio’s words touch countless lives. His philosophy, “to know thyself is to heal thyself,” resonates in every piece.
