Disrupting an Industry: The Affordable, Tech-Forward Alternative to Hearing Aids with Michael Leung - Entrepreneurs on Fire Recap

Podcast: Entrepreneurs on Fire

Published: 2026-03-24

Duration: 1483

Guests: Michael Leung

What Happened

Michael Leung, founder and CEO of The Flo Group in Calgary, has innovated in the hearing aid industry with FLO - TruBalance 2.0. This product provides an affordable and inclusive alternative to traditional hearing aids. Michael's journey into this industry was sparked by his own experience with sight loss due to a retinal detachment and the realization of the lack of affordable and effective hearing solutions.

Through his personal experience and interactions with seniors at eye clinics, Michael noticed a gap in the market for affordable hearing solutions. Many seniors face difficulties with traditional hearing aids due to their high cost, discomfort, or allergies to materials used. This led to the development of an open-ear bone conduction technology that amplifies sound through cheekbones, bypassing the ear canal.

FLO - TruBalance 2.0 is distinguished by its open-ear design, which sits on the cheekbone and uses bone conduction to transmit sound directly to the inner ear. This technology is more comfortable and reduces the risk of losing the device compared to traditional hearing aids. The product is also Bluetooth-enabled, allowing users to stream music and make phone calls.

Michael emphasized the importance of continual innovation and feedback to maintain momentum in the industry. He collaborates with seniors and other user groups to refine the product based on feedback, ensuring it meets diverse needs. This approach has helped expand the market beyond seniors to include war veterans, labor workers, and individuals with conditions like tinnitus.

The FLO product has unique features like a noise reduction chip and dual volume control, allowing for customization based on individual hearing needs. This makes it suitable for those with conditions such as one-sided deafness. The device is also semi-water resistant and has a long battery life, making it practical for daily use.

Michael's achievements include numerous podcast appearances and a feature in the Legacy Makers documentary, which highlights entrepreneurs' journeys and legacies. His future goals involve expanding the product's reach globally and continuing to innovate to meet the needs of those with hearing impairments.

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