Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Today is the Day Changemakers, Jodi Grinwald speaks with Melanie Paticoff Grossman—founder, author, and editor of Hearing Our Way magazine.

Melanie’s changemaker journey began with a deeply personal story: her cousin, who she was incredibly close to, started to experience hearing loss at a very young age. When her cousin moved away, it felt like a profound loss—one that shaped Melanie’s early understanding of distance, connection, and identity. But when her cousin returned years later, that relationship—and the awareness it sparked—set Melanie on a mission: to help other kids with hearing loss feel seen, understood, and empowered.

She began by writing Sophie’s Tales, a children’s book that uses storytelling to bridge understanding. But she didn’t stop there. Wanting to create something sustainable and ongoing, Melanie founded Hearing Our Way—a vibrant national magazine now in its 10th year, reaching schools, doctors’ offices, and homes across the country. The publication gives kids with hearing loss (and their peers) a place to belong and a way to connect.

In this episode, Melanie opens up about her passion for representation, the power of personal stories, the surprising role ADHD plays in professional life, and why she believes “finding your people” brings freedom and joy.

This is more than a story about hearing loss—it’s a story about purpose, resilience, and what happens when one person decides to turn personal loss into collective impact.

Listen on the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel or on all major podcast platforms.

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