292 - How GN and Han Kjøbenhavn Used Fashion to Challenge Hearing Aid Stigma

What happens when a global hearing aid manufacturer and a fashion house join forces to challenge stigma?In this episode, host Andrew Bellavia speaks with Marie Schleimann Nordlund, Director of Communication and Community at GN Hearing, and Kristian Rye, CEO of Han Kjøbenhavn, about their recent collaboration showcased at Copenhagen Fashion Week. Together, the two companies brought hearing health to the runway, featuring models with hearing loss and integrating hearing devices into the show’s visual and auditory design. The project supports GN’s “New Norm” initiative, which promotes inclusive and authentic representation of hearing aid users in media.The conversation explores how the collaboration came about, why representation matters—especially for invisible disabilities—and how both brands hope to influence cultural perceptions of hearing loss going forward. It’s a thoughtful look at how fashion and hearing care can intersect to drive meaningful change.For more information on 'The New Norm' initiative, visit: https://www.gn.com/the-new-normBe sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.- https://x.com/WeekinHearing- https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinhearing/- https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing- https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/