Music connects us. Hearing allows us to experience it.

In this episode of the Hearing Matters Podcast, host Blaise sits down with Michael Smith for an inspiring conversation about leadership, entrepreneurship, resilience, hearing health, and the extraordinary power of music to bring communities together. Blaise talks with Michael about:

• How Michael Smith went from professional trumpet player to CEO of the Charleston Symphony.
• Why the Charleston Symphony nearly disappeared during the financial crisis.
• The leadership lessons Michael learned while rebuilding an organization from the ground up.
• How mentorship, financial discipline, and community support helped transform the orchestra.
• How the Charleston Symphony navigated the COVID-19 pandemic and continued performing.
• The story behind a $16 million endowment fundraising campaign.
• Why music is such a powerful force for human connection and community engagement.
• The hearing protection challenges facing professional musicians and the importance of musician earplugs.
• Michael's vision for expanding the Charleston Symphony's educational and cultural impact.