After 42 years of living this experience - both as a Deaf/Hard of Hearing person and 15 years as an audiologist - I’ve learned that unlearning can be just as important as learning. Here are 10 things I’ve changed my mind about Deaf culture and sign language: 1. ASL isn’t a backup plan. It’s a complete, beautiful language that gives access, belonging, and identity - not just communication. 2. Speech and signing aren’t opposites. Kids can do both. It’s not “either/or.” It’s “yes, and.” 3. Early language access matters more than early listening goals. A child who can express themselves early - in any language - thrives in ways data can’t always show. 4. Being Deaf isn’t something to fix. It’s a human experience, not a deficit. What needs fixing is access and understanding. 5. Audiologists can (and should) embrace Deaf culture. It’s not separate from audiology - it’s part of it. Knowing the community we serve makes us better clinicians - and better humans. We need to listen and lea...