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In the final episode of our three-part Talking Head Pain mini-series, host Erik Stone sits down with Dr. Alicia Duyvejonck, a nurse practitioner and nationally recognized leader in headache care, to explore the real-world challenges of treating acute migraine attacks in clinical settings. They unpack common barriers, including systemic constraints, insurance hurdles, and comorbidities that complicate treatment selection. From newer medication classes like gepants to optimizing care through urgent and aggressive early intervention, this episode offers insights that can help healthcare providers tailor treatment strategies for patients in the middle of an attack. For more information about the program, and to access the UP-END Migraine initiative—including podcast episodes, video modules, quizzes, and survey insights—visit: ghlf.org/upendmigraine-education. Meet the Team Host: Erik Stone, Director of Data, Learning, and Evaluation at GHLF. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director of Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This podcast was made possible with support from Pfizer. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this second episode of Talking Head Pain: For the Healthcare Professional, our host Erik Stone speaks with Dr. Nina Riggins, a neurologist and leading headache specialist, about the critical role of preventive treatment in migraine care. They unpack common misconceptions among healthcare providers, explore when to start preventive therapies, and discuss how to avoid medication-overuse headache. With a focus on individualized care, health equity, and the latest advances in migraine prevention—such as CGRP-targeted therapies—this episode offers actionable insights to help providers intervene earlier and more effectively. For more information about the program, and to access the UP-END Migraine initiative—including podcast episodes, video modules, quizzes, and survey insights—visit: ghlf.org/upendmigraine-education. Meet the Team Host: Erik Stone, Director of Data, Learning, and Evaluation at GHLF. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director of Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This podcast was made possible with support from Pfizer. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Talking Head Pain: For the Healthcare Professional, our host Zoe Rothblatt sits down with Erik Stone, Director of Data, Learning, and Evaluation at GHLF, and a migraine patient advocate, to explore why getting a migraine diagnosis can feel like a battle—and what health care providers can do about it. Drawing on survey data from healthcare professionals and patients, Erik reveals key disconnects in how migraine is diagnosed and treated. They discuss disparities by race, gender, and socioeconomic status, and why many patients wait far too long for preventive treatment. If you treat patients with migraine, this episode offers insights to help close the gap between diagnosis and care.For more information about the program, and to access the UP-END Migraine initiative—including podcast episodes, video modules, quizzes, and survey insights—visit: ghlf.org/upendmigraine-education. Meet the Team Host: Erik Stone, Director of Data, Learning, and Evaluation at GHLF. A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director of Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. This podcast was made possible with support from Pfizer. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Head Pain, Joe sits down with neurology experts Dr. Saikali and Dr. Blumenfeld. They explore the significant advances from past therapies to today's targeted treatments that offer new hope for migraine patients. Discover how the integration of new medical strategies and patient education is reshaping the way the condition is managed, aiming for what Dr. Blumenfeld calls “crystal clear days” of no pain and optimal life quality. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:50: Dr. Blumenfeld explains the shift in migraine management toward specific and effective medications with fewer side effects 02:12: Dr. Saikali emphasizes the importance of patients bringing comprehensive medical histories to consultations to ensure effective and efficient treatment planning 04:42: Dr. Blumenfeld describes the patient-provider partnership as a journey toward migraine freedom, stressing the goal of achieving “crystal clear days” 06:44: Dr. Saikali discusses the critical role of addressing comorbid conditions to improve the effectiveness of migraine medications 09:02: Joe and Dr. Blumenfeld discuss the importance of breaking the cycle of frequent migraine with newer treatments 14:19: Dr. Saikali and Dr. Blumenfeld explore the stigma around migraine 19:31: Joe discusses how proper migraine treatment has enabled him to address other health issues, highlighting the holistic impact of effective migraine management 23:03: Dr. Saikali advocates for patients to keep a health journal or find personal ways to monitor their progress, stressing the individualized nature of treatment 25:28: Dr. Blumenfeld encourages patients to be proactive in seeking early treatment Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Head Pain, Sarah is joined by Shelby, a singer-songwriter navigating life with migraine and dysautonomia. Together, they delve into how chronic pain influences both personal and artistic endeavors. Shelby shares insights on how her condition has shaped her music career and the comfort she finds in her creative expression, offering listeners a window into the everyday triumphs and struggles faced by those living with chronic conditions. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:09: Shelby discusses how migraine has been both a destructive and constructive force in her life, emphasizing the dual nature of her experiences 02:47: The discussion turns to how migraine influenced Shelby's early life and how music became a therapeutic outlet for her 06:13: Shelby describes how she manages sound sensitivity around her performances, highlighting adjustments she makes to cope with migraine 09:30: Shelby speaks on the frustrations of navigating health insurance, expressing the challenges of securing treatment for chronic migraine 12:07: Sarah and Shelby discuss the importance of community support and understanding, particularly in managing chronic illness 14:15: Sarah and Shelby talk about the broader impact of migraine on public perception and personal identity 16:03: Shelby shares her approach to self-care, including therapy and maintaining social connections despite her chronic conditions Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Head Pain, Sarah is joined by Chandler, a chronic pain recovery coach and migraine patient, to explore the realities of living with chronic migraine and cluster headaches. Chandler shares her experience with hemiplegic migraine and how it propelled her into a life dedicated to helping others manage their pain. The episode dives into the impact of chronic pain on mental health, the importance of recognizing the mind-body connection, and practical strategies for managing daily life with chronic pain. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:54: Chandler recounts her worst migraine attack, describing its sudden and severe impact 03:19: Sarah and Chandler discuss the variety and types of migraine attacks, including hemiplegic and vestibular migraines 07:52: Chandler explains how focusing on the mind-body connection radically improved her health 12:44: Sarah and Chandler explore the relationship between mental health and chronic pain, emphasizing the need for comprehensive treatment approaches 15:45: Chandler and Sarah discuss effective self-care strategies for managing chronic pain and migraine attacks 17:02: Sarah emphasizes the cultural pressures that often discourage taking breaks and how she learned to prioritize self-care to manage her chronic conditions effectively 19:05: Chandler reflects on the journey of embracing the mind-body connection as a transformative tool in her battle against chronic pain Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Talking Head Pain, Joe is joined by renowned headache specialists Dr. Tepper and Dr. Ailani to discuss a groundbreaking shift in migraine treatment accessibility. They delve into the recent endorsement by the American Headache Society of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) blockers as the primary preventive treatment for migraines, a move that promises to simplify the patient's journey toward relief. This discussion explores the implications for insurance and pharmacy benefit managers practices and patient care, providing hope and actionable advice for those living with migraine. Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Head Pain, Sarah is joined by Christa, a death doula and community care facilitator navigating the complex intersections of chronic illness and queer identity for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals. Together, they explore Christa's journey through the debilitating impacts of migraine and endometriosis, highlighting the profound role of community care and self-advocacy in managing chronic conditions. This conversation sheds light on the resilience required to live authentically while coping with chronic pain, offering insights and solidarity to those on similar paths. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:16: Christa highlights the significance of Pride Month and discusses the pain associated with queer history, emphasizing that existence as queer people of color with disabilities is an act of resistance 03:01: Christa describes how migraine attacks have been a longstanding issue since high school, often overlooked due to other health challenges, and particularly exacerbated by hormonal changes 06:14: Christa talks about the professional challenges posed by migraine, affecting their ability to work on screens and requiring time off, which impacted her past employment 07:01: Sarah and Christa discuss the complexities of managing multiple chronic illnesses, including the crucial timing of medication to handle migraine symptoms effectively 08:36: Christa explains how transitioning to self-employment has allowed them to manage their health better, accommodating their migraines and other chronic conditions more effectively 10:22: Christa reflects on the cultural and familial challenges of addressing chronic conditions within immigrant families, highlighting the gap between generational approaches to health and wellness 13:46: Christa discusses the evolution of their support systems and the challenges of initiating conversations about needs and support with loved ones, especially during significant life transitions 18:07: Christa discusses the importance of creating care plans, especially within the context of chronic illness and disability 22:20: Christa emphasizes the importance of workplace accommodations for chronic illnesses and advocates for better understanding and support from employers 27:36: Christa shares personal strategies for dealing with bad days due to chronic conditions, emphasizing the importance of resting and listening to one’s body Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Talking Head Pain, Joe speaks with Dr. Christopher Gottschalk, Director of Headache Medicine and the Headache Medicine Training Program at Yale University, Connecticut, live from the American Headache Society's scientific meeting. Dr. Gottschalk shares insights from a new study revealing how prolonged use of anti-CGRP drugs can reduce prodromal symptoms and the occurrence of headaches. He discusses the evolving understanding of migraine phases and the broader impacts of treatment on quality of life and cognitive function. Join Joe and Dr. Gottschalk as they discuss these significant advancements in migraine treatment and education. Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Talking Head Pain, Joe is live from the American Headache Society's scientific meeting with Alicia Duyvejonck, a nurse practitioner at Genesis Headache Clinic in Davenport, Iowa. Together they discuss a research poster to which they both contributed titled "Person-Centric Communications in Migraine: Delphi-Like Consensus on Best Practice." This study, conducted using the Delphi consensus model, involved headache neurologists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and advocacy community representatives, focusing on enhancing communication between patients and health care professionals in migraine care. They emphasize the importance of person-centric communication and individualizing treatment, highlighting key recommendations for both providers and patients to improve understanding and reduce migraine stigma.Join Joe and Alicia as they explore how effective communication is essential in managing this heterogeneous condition and fostering shared decision-making. Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Talking Head Pain, Joe is live from the American Headache Society's scientific meeting with Dr. Mario Peres, President-Elect of the International Headache Society. Dr. Peres, hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, discusses the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in migraine diagnosis and management. They discuss how AI tools are being developed to improve diagnostic accuracy, which is crucial for effective treatment. Dr. Peres emphasizes the importance of validating these AI models to ensure they provide reliable and useful outcomes.  Join Joe and Dr. Peres as they delve into the future of migraine care, emphasizing technology's role in enhancing patient self-management and care strategies. Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Talking Head Pain, Joe speaks with Dr. Nada Hindiyeh, Director of Headache Medicine at Metrodora Institute and CMO at Haven Headache & Migraine Center, and Dr. Lauren Natbony, Founder and CEO of Integrative Headache Medicine of New York. Recorded live at the American Headache Society’s (AHS) Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego, CA, they discuss the complex interrelations between migraine, autonomic disorders such as POTS, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). They highlight the importance of a holistic approach to treatment and the innovative work being done to create special interest groups within the AHS to address these issues. Join them as they share insights and advances in treating these interconnected conditions. Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Head Pain, Sarah welcomes Katrina, a patient advocate navigating multiple conditions including migraine and endometriosis. They discuss Katrina's journey — from years of misdiagnosis to finally finding a doctor who would listen and offer effective migraine treatment options. Katrina and Sarah dive into the overlap of endometriosis and migraine advocacy, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs along the way. This discussion provides insights into the daily realities of shared decision-making with your health care team, the journey to diagnosis, and the importance of self-advocacy. Among the highlights in this episode: 02:05: Katrina describes the onset and progression of their migraine attacks, providing insights into the symptoms that go beyond a typical headache 03:58: Katrina shares their journey from misdiagnosis to finally getting a correct diagnosis and effective treatment plan, emphasizing the pivotal role of a neurologist 04:25: Sarah and Katrina discuss the overlap of endometriosis and migraine, and the challenges of being heard and properly diagnosed 07:26: Katrina and Sarah discuss the impact of advocacy in navigating health care and the importance of self-advocacy in chronic illness management 08:53: Katrina reflects on how their advocacy in endometriosis has empowered them in other areas such as migraine 14:41: Sarah and Katrina discuss the emotional and physical toll of chronic illness and the societal pressures that affect how people manage their health 19:11: Katrina expresses their approach to health management amidst advocacy fatigue 20:29: Closing thoughts on the importance of prioritizing personal health and the collective need for better health care understanding and support Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Talking Head Pain, Sarah is joined by Nicole, a nursing student living with migraine. Nicole shares her harrowing journey, the challenges of navigating health care, and how she turned her struggle into advocacy for herself and others. Nicole's experiences highlight the power of advocacy, the impact of stigma, and the importance of community support in living with migraine. Join Sarah and Nicole for an episode that offers valuable insights for anyone looking to advocate for better migraine care and understanding. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:20: Nicole recounts a severe migraine attack following a concussion in 2016, detailing the array of debilitating symptoms she experienced 02:25: Nicole discusses how educating herself about migraine, joining support groups, and learning to advocate for herself were crucial steps in managing her condition 03:50: Nicole shares practical advice on preparing for medical appointments, including keeping detailed health records and symptom notes to improve communication with health care providers 06:13: Nicole and Sarah highlight the significance of finding a community through support groups, sharing experiences, and not feeling alone in the journey with migraine 07:35: Nicole discusses the challenge of advocating for herself among family and friends and the importance of sharing personal stories to educate others about the realities of living with migraine 13:31: Nicole reflects on what motivated her to seek better treatment and care, emphasizing the role of research, therapy, and the determination to live independently despite her condition 15:26: Nicole acknowledges that despite best efforts, some people still struggle with migraine management due to the unique ways migraine affects each individual Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Chief Value, Growth, and Therapeutic Solutions Officer, Country Manager, Canada at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Associate Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Talking Head Pain, Sarah is joined by colleagues Kelly Gavigan and Eric Stone as they delve into the nuances of episodic migraine care. They discuss GHLF's UpEnd Migraine Project, which aims to enhance health care provider education in primary and emergency care settings for better migraine management. Through a conversation that spans personal experiences and the project's objectives, the episode sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in treatment for those living with episodic migraine. If you are a health care provider or a patient living with episodic migraine, make sure to listen to the episode and participate in our survey. This will help more patients like you, get diagnosed and on proper treatment. Healthcare, Nurse & ER Practitioner Survey: https://www.research.net/r/FBDYLHM Episodic Migraine Patient Survey: https://singuser0bd3f30c.iad1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0OGZIOGI0mmtMsm?Source=Ext Contact Our Hosts: Joe Coe, Director, Therapeutic Area Growth and Integration at GHLF: [email protected] Sarah Shaw, Senior Manager of BIPOC Community Outreach at GHLF: [email protected] A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to [email protected]   Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.