Ok. I think I've found a workaround fix for this particular bug (without going to one of those Geniuses).
1) Plug your headphones into your iPhone.
2) Initiate your iPod.
3) Go ahead and find your favorite track.
4) Play it.
5) Confirm that there is sound coming out (you don't need to actually wear the headphones).
6) Switch your sound mode to *on*
7) This next step involves two simultaneous events
- switch your sound mode back to *silent*
- press the main power switch on the top of your phone
Do your best to do step number 7 *at the same time*
8) Unplug your headphones.
9) Is your phone playing music from the speakers now?
- if "no": Plug your headphones back in, then repeat steps 7 and 8 starting with your sound mode switched to *on*
- if "yes": congratulations, you fixed phone (until the next time it crashes
)
Cheers