How do we hear music and why do certain songs create such a powerful emotional response?

In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Glen Phillips, lead singer of Toad the Wet Sprocket, for an in-depth conversation on music, hearing, and the science of sound perception.

We explore how musicians listen differently, what makes a song emotionally impactful, and how elements like pitch, tone, and vocal delivery shape the way we experience music. Glen shares insights from his decades-long career as a songwriter and performer, offering a unique perspective on how sound connects to memory, emotion, and identity.

This episode also dives into the intersection of music and audiology—covering topics like how the brain processes sound, why some voices stand out more than others, and what it really means to “listen” in  ...