Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States — yet many of its biggest risk factors are preventable. 

In this episode of Beyond the Script, host Dr. Jake Goodman sits down with CVS pharmacist and district leader Nicole Henry to explain what heart health really means, how conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol often develop silently, and what you can do to help protect your heart before symptoms appear. 

They discuss common heart medications, medication adherence, over-the-counter supplements, lifestyle changes that support cardiovascular health, and how pharmacists help with prevention. The episode also covers heart attack and stroke warning signs, differences in symptoms between men and women, and common heart health myths — including daily aspirin use. 

Whether you’re managing a heart condition or focused on prevention, this episode offers clear, practical guidance to help you take charge of your heart health. 

Please note:  

For a suspected heart attack, the best rapid response approach is to call 9-1-1 immediately. Key signs often involve chest pain, pressure, or discomfort, along with radiating pain to the jaw, neck, or shoulders 

A good acronym to remember the most common signs of a potential stroke is B.E. F.A.S.T. which stands for: 
Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination. 
Eyes: Sudden vision changes, blurring, or loss of vision. 
Face: One side of the face droops or is numb; check if their smile is uneven. 
Arm: Weakness in one arm or leg; one arm drifts downward when raised. 
Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking/being understood. 
Time: Time to call 911 immediately if any of these signs are present. 

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Bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation—are these symptoms normal, or signs of something deeper? 

On this episode of Beyond the Script, Dr. Jake Goodman is joined by CVS pharmacist and district leader Victoria Mottola to break down gut health, the gut microbiome, and the questions pharmacists hear every day. They explain how probiotics and prebiotics work, how antibiotics and pain relievers affect your stomach, what’s safe for kids, and when digestive symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. 

You’ll also hear practical advice on fiber, acid reflux, OTC medications, and common gut health myths—plus simple steps you can take to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.

For more information visit cvs.com/pharmacy.

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Cold and flu season is here—and the symptoms can be confusing.  

Is it just a cold, or something more serious? In this first episode of Beyond the Script, Dr. Jake Goodman is joined by CVS Pharmacy Region Director Gaurang Trivedi to break down what really matters during peak sick season. 

Together, they cover how to tell the difference between a cold and the flu, when symptoms should raise red flags, when to ask for advice, and why vaccines remain one of the most effective tools for protecting yourself and your community.  

They also tackle common myths—from vitamin C and bundling up to hot tea and humidifiers—and explain what science actually says. 

You’ll hear practical, pharmacist-backed advice on testing, treatment, vaccines, and when it’s time to see a doctor, all in a clear, judgment-free conversation designed to help you feel more confident about your health this winter.

For more information visit cvs.com/pharmacy.

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Ever freeze when the pharmacist asks, “Any questions?” Beyond the Script is here to help. 

Hosted by Dr. Jake Goodman, this podcast answers the health questions you meant to ask—and the ones you didn’t know you should.

Each episode features CVS pharmacists sharing trusted advice, busting myths, and unpacking the trends shaping your health. No white coats. No lectures. Just real talk, real answers, and a few unexpected laughs.

Follow Beyond the Script now—coming soon from CVS Pharmacy and iHeartMedia’s Ruby Studio.

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