You At Your Best

By Sarah haNey NWa Democrat-Gazette Wolfpack Hearing Clinic was born from the basic principle that the good of the patient stands above all else. Director of Operations Marla Richards, MS, RD, LD takes this sentiment to heart. Graduating in August 2011, Richards took her RD exam and became a Registered Dietitian with a masters in dietetics. In 2012, she began working at a medical and weight loss clinic in Bentonville and enjoyed five years of work there. "I worked with weight loss and eating disorder patients, as well as patients with diabetes or congestive heart failure," stated Richards. "I really got to be hands-on with a lot of different ailments and diseases and that was an experience for which I'll always be grateful. What was so wonderful about working in weight loss is that I got to change people's lives just like I do at Wolfpack Hearing. Both are a way of changing lives." Richards officially began her role as Director of Operations at Wolfpack Hearing Clinic in August 2017, although she has been co-owner and helped build the business with her husband, Dustin Richards, Au.D. since the end of 2015. She still enjoys being a dietitian and continues to see patients when she can after-hours, on the side. Transitioning to her leadership role at Wolfpack Hearing Clinic was a natural move – Richards had been lead dietitian at the weight loss clinic for which she had previously worked. In her new role, Richards wants to ensure that people feel at home when they come to Wolfpack Hearing Clinic for their hearing needs. "I want to be a leader and help give guidance, but also I wan us to have more of that family-type atmosphere," added Richards. "People walk in and they feel like they're at home and they feel comfortable and welcomed. That's been my goal since I walked in the door. How do I make this patient feel like they can be themselves and that they're cared for? Our goal and passion need to be how this patient feels when they are with us." Patients have stated they love going to Wolfpack Hearing Clinic and chatting with the staff because it's not so clinical or medical, it's more of a home feel. "I want to bring an atmosphere of home where you don't feel intimidated while you are here," noted Richards. Richards has helped countless people make healthy lifestyle changes and had the ability to learn finances/accounting and manage a clinic in a field opposite of her study in a remarkably short period of time. Her expertise, drive and care for each patient is evident in her hard work ethic and ability to connect with every person who is in need of help with their hearing. "I really value my time here at Wolfpack and I value what our passion is," added Richards. "I also value my time with Dustin. It gives us an opportunity to be a team. I get to see the difference that hearing aids make in others lives. To one person, it's just a small device. But, to Dustin and I, it's an incredible life- changing experience. We get to see people come in that maybe don't do well in social settings, or with their families, and that's where we get to make the difference. We get to see their progress over time with hearing aids. And we get to see how that affects their life in such a positive way." When it comes to hearing loss and helping patients find a solution, Richards enjoys helping each patient have the opportunity to reconnect. "The most rewarding part is seeing loved ones reconnect with loved ones. We get to see their lives just brighten up because all of a sudden they can hear. Hearing is so much more than just hearing — it's a way of connecting." Find out more about hearing loss solutions by visiting Wolfpack Hearing Clinic at 2630 E. Citizens Drive, #7 in Fayetteville; located at the intersection of Crossover and Mission in Kantz Center. They can also be contacted by phone at (479) 957-9300 or by visiting wolfpackhearing.com. director of operations Marla richards brings family atmosphere to Wolfpack Hearing clinic Marla Richards SATURDAY, MARch 31, 2018 | ApRil - TAckling AlleRgieS nwADg.coM/YoUATYoURbeST | YoU AT YoUR beST | 13 Fayetteville Senior Center Spring Fling Dance & Dinner April 10th @ 5:30 pm Door Prizes! All Ages Welcome! Fayetteville Senior Center 945 South College Avenue 479-571-2920 2630 E Citizens Dr #7, Fayetteville (Intersection of Crossover/Mission, Kantz Center) wolfpackhearing.com We offer the most advanced hearing technologies with a team mission of providing our patients with the highest level of exper tise and compassion. to schedule your COMPLIMENTARY hearing screening and consultation! Call (479) 957-9300

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