The Head Start: Embracing the Journey
Episode: Strength Behind the Scenes: A Conversation with Lilly Singh
Host: Nora McInerney
Guest: Lilly Singh
Release Date: June 17, 2025

1. Introduction to the Episode and Guest

In this heartfelt episode of The Head Start: Embracing the Journey, host Nora McInerney welcomes the multifaceted entertainer Lilly Singh. Known for her roles as a comedian, actress, author, singer, YouTuber, and activist, Lilly shares her personal journey of navigating a high-profile career while managing chronic migraine. The episode sets the stage for an open and honest conversation about the challenges and triumphs faced by those living with this invisible disease.

2. Lilly Singh’s Experience Living with Chronic Migraine

Lilly opens up about the relentless nature of chronic migraines and how they intersect with her demanding career. She recounts a particularly challenging day on the set of Muppets Mayhem, where a severe migraine attack disrupted her performance amidst the intricate and high-energy environment.

“...when you have a migraine attack and you're already kind of like, I'm not 100. I had to be like, okay, but I can't fall off the set and have to walk here.”
— Lilly Singh [08:50]

This vivid portrayal underscores the immense pressure she faces to maintain her public persona while grappling with intense physical discomfort.

3. Coping Strategies and Communication

Lilly emphasizes the importance of effective communication in managing her condition. She shares how she has learned to articulate her needs clearly to her team and loved ones, a skill she attributes to her mother’s guidance.

“I've gotten really good at being like, hey, just to let you know, I'm getting a migraine attack. And this is probably how I'm gonna react.”
— Lilly Singh [09:15]

Her ability to communicate openly has fostered better understanding and support, reducing the personal strain of her condition.

4. Mythbusters Segment – Dr. Christopher Ryan Debunks Migraine Myths

Dr. Christopher Ryan joins Nora for the popular Mythbusters segment, where he addresses common misconceptions about chronic migraines:

1. Myth: Migraine is just a headache.
   Busted: Chronic migraine is a complex neurological disease with symptoms including nausea, light and sound sensitivity, and cognitive difficulties.

   “Chronic migraine is associated with more than just head pain. It's often associated with nausea... visual disturbances...”
   — Dr. Christopher Ryan [13:00]

2. Myth: Caffeine is the cause of my migraine attack.
   Busted: While excessive caffeine can trigger migraines, abrupt cessation in regular consumers can also prompt attacks. Awareness of caffeine sources is crucial.

   “Too much caffeine can certainly trigger migraine attacks. But if we are regular caffeine consumers, unfortunately, stopping that caffeine can also trigger migraine attacks.”
   — Dr. Christopher Ryan [13:41]

3. Myth: There are no preventive treatments available for chronic migraine.
   Busted: Preventive treatments, including medications like Botox, exist to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.

   “There are preventative treatments that are built to keep the headache from showing up in the first place.”
   — Dr. Christopher Ryan [14:20]

4. Myth: Chronic migraine only affects women.
   Busted: While more prevalent in women, chronic migraine also significantly affects men.

   “More than half a million men experience chronic migraine in the United States today.”
   — Dr. Christopher Ryan [14:59]

5. Myth: I just have to get through a migraine attack alone.
   Busted: Support systems, including medical professionals, advocates, and the migraine community, are available to help individuals during attacks.

   “There are millions of people living with migraine attacks who absolutely are here to help you through this.”
   — Dr. Christopher Ryan [15:37]

Dr. Ryan's insights not only debunk myths but also highlight the importance of understanding and support for those battling chronic migraines.

5. The Story of Lilly Singh’s Diagnosis

Lilly recounts the pivotal moment of her chronic migraine diagnosis during a bachelorette party. Surrounded by friends who are medical professionals, she realized that her recurring headaches were more than just ordinary headaches.

“In 2022... I felt a little tug happening on the left side of my head on my neck... they were like, I think that's you're describing chronic migraine.”
— Lilly Singh [18:03]

This recognition was a turning point, leading her to seek professional help and adopt strategies that have significantly improved her quality of life.

6. Balancing Career and Chronic Migraine

Navigating a demanding career while managing chronic migraines requires strategic planning and support. Lilly shares how she prioritizes her well-being without compromising her professional ambitions.

“I vividly remember having a lot of migraine attacks during that time. Because there's no way you can sleep the appropriate amount... this schedule, I'm all for putting in the work... but it has to be made in a way that brings out the best in everyone.”
— Lilly Singh [25:00]

She emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a structured routine and having a supportive team to accommodate her health needs.

7. Advice for the Chronic Migraine Community

Towards the end of the episode, Lilly offers valuable advice to listeners dealing with chronic migraines:

1. Advocate for Yourself:

   “Even just being comfortable with making your needs clear and being open to receiving people meeting your needs just like you would help meet their needs is really, really important.”
   — Lilly Singh [26:31]

2. Establish a Morning Routine:

   “Having a structured morning routine... really commit to it.”
   — Lilly Singh [26:42]

These strategies highlight the importance of self-care and effective communication in managing chronic migraine.

8. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Nora McInerney wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of self-advocacy and community support. She praises Lilly for her resilience and positivity, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and empowerment.

“When you advocate for yourself... you are also making space for the people around you to be able to acknowledge and honor their own.”
— Nora McInerney [29:57]

The episode concludes with a reminder of the upcoming final episode and expressions of gratitude to listeners, reinforcing the podcast’s mission to build a supportive community for those affected by chronic migraine.

Key Takeaways:

• Open Communication: Clearly expressing needs and symptoms is crucial for receiving appropriate support.

• Structured Routine: Establishing daily habits can significantly alleviate migraine symptoms and improve overall well-being.

• Myth Busting: Understanding the true nature of chronic migraines dispels misconceptions and fosters a more supportive environment.

• Self-Advocacy: Advocating for oneself not only benefits the individual but also empowers others in their support network.

Notable Quotes:

• “Chronic migraine is associated with more than just head pain. It's often associated with nausea... visual disturbances...”
  — Dr. Christopher Ryan [13:00]

• “I have made my social algorithms such that I only get served funny dog videos now, and my feed is just full of hilarious dogs.”
  — Lilly Singh [05:15]

• “And now you don't have to say to a woman you barely know at a bachelor party, would you mind pulling out your elbow?”
  — Lilly Singh [19:58]

This episode offers a profound and uplifting exploration of living with chronic migraine, blending personal anecdotes with expert insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition.