Marietta Spotlight: Nicole Shields, Marietta’s Best of Cobb Hearing Professional and My First Friend in Marietta

Growing up in Marietta has given me so much—a sense of home, a close-knit community, and lifelong friendships. One of the first and most special friendships I made here was with Nicole Shields. We met when I was nine years old, and from that moment on, Nicole’s positivity, loyalty, and big smile have been a constant in my life. Now, all these years later, I’m beyond proud to spotlight her not only as my friend but as an incredible audiologist who was recently named Best of Cobb for hearing professionals. Nicole’s story is inspiring, and I think you’ll love getting to know her as much as I have over the years.

On Growing Up in Marietta

You’ve lived in Marietta for most of your life—how did growing up here shape who you are today?

Marietta is truly a community that is welcoming, loving, and supportive. I feel beyond grateful that I get to work and live in this special city! I try to emulate those same qualities in my day-to-day work and personal life.

Following Her Calling

What inspired you to become an audiologist? Was there a specific moment or experience that set you on this path?

I have always known I wanted to work in healthcare. My mom has been a nurse for over 40 years, and she is a true inspiration! But before college, I didn’t even know what an audiologist was. I started college undecided and pre-med, but by junior year, I felt very lost. That’s when my cousin suggested I try some audiology classes—and thank goodness she did! I was hooked, and the rest is history.

What motivates you every day—both in your work and in your personal life?

I truly love working with my patients, especially my cochlear implant patients. Seeing how much these devices can contribute to their quality of life is so motivating. Along with my patients, my co-workers and family inspire me to keep learning and growing as an audiologist, a teammate, and a person.

Making a Difference

What’s the most rewarding part of being an audiologist?

Seeing the moment when a patient hears something they thought they had lost forever—whether it’s a loved one’s voice, music, or just the sound of the world around them.

Hearing is such a personal and emotional sense—how do you help your patients feel comfortable and understood?

Hearing loss doesn’t just affect the person experiencing it—it affects their whole family. Emotions can run high in appointments, so I try to just listen, be patient, and show empathy. I think at the end of the day, everyone wants to feel heard and understood—that’s what I aim to give my patients.

Has there been a specific patient story that really stuck with you?

There are so many inspiring stories, but one that stands out is a patient who wasn’t having success with hearing aids. He had withdrawn from his family and was spending most of his time alone, watching TV in his bedroom. We were able to get him approved for cochlear implants, and his life transformed. He started going out socially again and even took a family vacation. Seeing how much his life and his family’s lives changed was incredible to witness.

A Love for Travel and Perspective

You’ve traveled to all seven continents before turning 40—that’s incredible! What motivated you to take on that challenge?

My love language is definitely traveling. I feel most alive in a different country, immersed in another culture. Visiting all the continents before turning 40 might seem like an untraditional goal, but it felt natural for me and my husband. Accomplishing it together made it even more special.

If you could go back to one place tomorrow, where would it be and why?

That’s tough! My husband and I are romantics at heart, so France is always high on our list. But we also love places that remind us how spectacular nature is—Antarctica, Peru, and New Zealand are definitely calling us back.

Friendship and Growth

We’ve been friends since fourth grade—what’s one thing about me that’s stayed the same since we were kids?

Merry in Marietta is the most loyal friend I know! That loyalty and love for Marietta shines through everything she does, and it’s been a constant in my life all these years.

What’s something you’ve learned about friendship over the years that you wish more people knew?

That showing up matters. Being present—whether it’s for a big moment or a small one—makes all the difference.

You’ve been a constant source of support and positivity in my life—who has been that person for you?

My mom. She’s always been my rock, and seeing how she has handled her career and life with such grace inspires me every day.

Life Lessons and Inspiration

If you had to sum up your life philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?

Work hard and be nice to people.

What’s one habit or mindset that helps you live with intention every day?

Gratitude. Taking a moment every day to appreciate what I have helps me stay grounded and focused.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Trust the journey. I never imagined my life would look the way it does today, but by learning to go with the flow rather than trying to force one version of life, I ended up where I’m meant to be.

Advice and Connection

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone struggling with hearing loss or thinking about seeking help?

Don’t wait. The sooner you seek help, the better your outcome will be. There are so many options and resources available now—there’s no reason to struggle alone.

What’s something you wish more people knew about the importance of hearing health?

Protect your ears! Even short-term exposure to loud noise can cause lasting damage. Using earplugs when you’re around loud sounds is a quick and easy way to protect your hearing for the long term.

How can people connect with you or learn more about your work as an audiologist?

Please feel free to email me at Nicole.Shields@wellstar.org. I’d love to connect!

Why Marietta Will Always Be Home

What’s one thing about Marietta that always makes you feel at home?

Community. Over a year ago, I had to stay at our local Kennestone Hospital. All I could think about was how lucky I felt to live right down the street from such a world-class facility—and to be cared for by my Marietta neighbors. That sense of belonging is what makes Marietta so special.

Nicole is more than just an award-winning audiologist—she’s a reminder of how powerful friendship, community, and following your calling can be. I’m so proud of her and grateful to call her my friend. If you’re looking for someone to trust with your hearing health, you couldn’t be in better hands than Nicole Shields.