RL Schwinden aka Rik is a father, the owner and operator of Mr Zero's pop culture haven since 2009. Rik hosts a weekly radio show on WDGY called Mr Zero'sPshychoGello show, he writes a music column and heads several music projects including a Tribute band called Kissin' Time. His whole life has been dedicated to music and the culture it creates.

In December 2025 Rik had a cold, like many others that time of year. Only this cold caused an infection in his inner ear. He began experiencing vertigo and his ears felt plugged. He saw several doctors who had no answers. Finally, in July 2026 he was able to see the best Ear Nose & Throat Dr in Saint Paul who informed him that he had contracted Labyrinthitis in late Dec or early Jan 2026. As a result he is now legally, permanently 75% deaf. He needs to get an MRI to see if he has a tumor as a result. They presented him with 3 hearing Implant options. The one that would best suit him in his career is $100,000. Our goal accounts for expenses needed for time off to have this procedure.

This is not the kind of hearing loss one gets from standing too close to speakers, it could happen to any of us. If you can help, please do.