AHFter Hours Podcast

After the Test Exploring the essential role of AHF’s testing counselors GUEST BIOS: Steven Holmes is an HIV testing counselor for AHF based in New York City. Randy Hubing is also an HIV testing counselor with 14 years of experience at AHF. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [1:44] - More than Testing The vital role of HIV testing counselors What does an HIV testing counselor do? It’s more than just getting a “positive” or “negative.” HIV testing counselors also encourage people to improve their sexual health and habits, make safer choices, and understand the history and context of HIV — particularly in the gay community. Testing counselors also help those with positive results navigate into the next step — helping them feel comfortable, cared for, and prepared for what comes next both in their lives and in their relationship with AHF as a patient. [8:54] - Connections and Invitations Meeting people and getting them tested How do our counselors connect with individuals and encourage them to get tested? It starts with the confidence to speak openly with people from all different backgrounds — “Hi, my name is Randy, and we’re going to have about 20 minutes of conversation about sex.” That level of comfort doesn’t come easy. It’s cultivated and mastered over time by our expert counselors. After all, that willingness to connect with individuals about sometimes taboo topics could save a life. [14:14] - Why Testing Matters Honoring history by refusing to repeat it Steven and Randy recall the early 80s, when so little was known about HIV that it was being referred to as “gay cancer.” Back then, things like testing, counseling, and organizations such as AHF were nonexistent. Today, all those resources exist — and it’s in patients’ best interest to take advantage of them. Not only does early testing lead to better outcomes, but from the viewpoint of older activists like Randy who can list loved ones who suffered and died in those early, ignorant days, it’s an act of tribute to those who didn’t have an option to test or receive support. [19:13] - Testing Positive: What to Expect What happens when a patient receives that difficult news? Randy and Steven walk us through what it looks like for a patient who tests positive. First, it’s important that they understand the initial “one-line-or-two” test is a screening test, not a diagnosis. In all likelihood, a positive result means they have the virus — but not always. Additional testing, such as a blood test, is required for a confirmed diagnosis. That said, linkage between the patient and AHF begins immediately. They’ll receive support, contact information, and all the info they need to feel informed and empowered about their potential diagnosis. In many cases, they’ll even have the opportunity to start on medications before that confirmation test comes back. The sooner you start medication, the sooner you become what’s known as undetectable — that means the virus is present in such small quantities in your body that it’s not actively affecting the immune system and is significantly less likely to be passed along to someone else. RESOURCES: Find a Provider Through AHFFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public...

We The People About our campaign and coalition to bring back true American liberty GUEST BIO: Ebonni Chrispin is the Director of Legislative Affairs and Community Engagement for HF Self and Healthy Housing Foundation. CJ Staples is the national organizer for Dream Defenders. Abby Langweiler is a volunteer with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:29] - What is We the People? Multiple causes, one unifying mission Spearheaded by AHF, We the People is a coalition of over 40 organizations covering a wide range of social justice causes — from reducing gun violence to serving marginalized communities. Together, we hope to create one, unified voice in defense of the real American dream — an America that’s safe, equitable, and just for all people. We the People will culminate in a July March located in Florida. [11:56] - Fighting Against Fear Turning distrust into community At the core of We the People is a fight against policies in Florida and elsewhere that encourage people to distrust, fear, and even physically harm each other. When any person can possess a firearm — and when hateful speech towards marginalized communities is at a fever pitch — neighbors feel they can’t trust one another. We the People is about telling the establishment that there is a better way, and that individual citizens will stand together to bring it to fruition. After all, there’s more that unites us than divides us. [17:28] - Keeping Hope through Heartache Despite setbacks, hope for a better world endures Our hosts and guests offer a timely reminder that there’s no place for pessimism or hopelessness in We the People. Even as the world seems to move backwards, there are glimmers of hope — such as the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Alabama’s Black voters rights — that remind us change is possible when people stand together with one voice and demand justice. Meanwhile, Abby reminds us that even though the news may suggest otherwise, the majority of Americans do in fact support things like background checks on gun sales and other laws to promote safety and fairness. We’re not as divided as the news and some politicians would have us believe. [25:15] - What If You Can’t March? You can still make your voice heard Can’t make the We the People march on July 2nd in Fort Lauderdale? You can still make an impact. There will be sister marches taking place in South Carolina, Chicago, New York, LA, and Houston. Details are available at https://wtpmarch.org. You can also follow along online @WTPmarch on Instagram and TikTok. Finally, the coalition will continue to thrive after the march is finished, working to register voters, send mail-in ballots, and more. RESOURCES: Healthy Housing FoundationDream DefendersMoms Demand Action for Gun Sense in AmericaWe the People MarchAbout Alabama’s Voting Rights ActWe The People InstagramFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST...

HIV and Primary Care Discussing some of the core tenets of AHF GUEST BIO: Dr. Michael Wohlfeiler was formerly AHF’s chief medical officer for over a decade, and now serves in an advisory role with AHF and the Department of Medicine. Dr. Carl Millner is the current chief medical officer at AHF. Rigness Rush is director of branding for AHF. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:28] - What Does It Mean to be an HIV Primary Care Physician? Going beyond treating the disease HIV primary care physicians are primary care providers with special expertise in managing HIV. All providers at AHF must have competency in HIV medicine and primary care, because the reality is that it doesn’t make sense to only address HIV without caring for the whole patient. This is especially true considering HIV raises the risk of other co-morbid conditions, such as high cholesterol and increased risk of heart disease or diabetes. This approach truly saves and transforms lives — just as it transformed Rig’s, who came to AHF as a patient in 2014 and was so inspired by its care that they’re now a director in the organization. [8:08] - What Makes an AHF Clinic Different? Unique needs require unique care AHF offers what we call “wraparound services.” It’s not just about coming in, seeing a provider, and receiving a prescription. It also includes meeting with case managers, benefits counselors, nurses, and more. And while primary care is the goal, it’s all centered around the needs of someone living with HIV. Meanwhile, every person at every clinic is there because they have a true passion for taking care of this unique patient population. AHF is a mission-driven organization, and our clinics are equally mission-driven. [11:59] - Authenticity and Intimacy Rigness speaks on the look and feel of AHF clinics Rig speaks on how an individual living with HIV enters each clinic with a great deal of physical, mental, and emotional factors. That should all be taken into account with the way that patient is received and the experience they have at the clinic. He calls that approach “honest care,” which relies on a sense of authenticity which leads to better retention by engaging the person, not the problem. [13:47] - Why AHF? Why should a patient choose AHF when there are other organizations serving this community? While many other organizations are doing amazing work in the HIV community, Dr. Carl shares that he feels what makes AHF different is the special level of care patients receive at our clinics. “You feel embraced from the beginning to the end of the process…Counselors are warm and receptive, the care management team is helpful.” He also cites AHF pharmacies as one of the distinct factors that sets AHF apart. [20:25] - Ending on Advocacy The missing piece that ties it all together Dr. Carl emphasizes an earlier point from Rig about another overarching mission at AHF: advocacy. Without the entire organization, and every individual in it, advocating for people with HIV and in the community, AHF’s mission is missing the glue that holds it all together. AHF events, like the We the People march in Florida on July 2nd which will take on LGBTQ rights, abortion, and other human rights violations in the state, are absolutely central to AHF’s values. RESOURCES: AHF Healthcare CentersWe the People MarchFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for...

Meet the Mobilizers Turning big plans into real action GUEST BIO: Jeremy Myers is a Baltimore-raised mobilizer who has been with AHF since 2021. Taylor Watson is a mobilizer who has been with AHF for three and a half years. Raymond Thomas is the AHF mobilizer for Washington D.C. He’s been with AHF for approximately eight years. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:43] - “The Five Senses of AHF” What it means to be a mobilizer Raymond Thomas eloquently explains the role of mobilizers as the “five senses of AHF.” In local communities, they’re on the ground taking a pulse of what’s going on — touching people, recruiting advocates, and keeping people engaged, interested, and aware of what AHF is fighting for every day. Meanwhile, Taylor says mobilizers are like the bus — they bring the fuel, the people, and the direction to drive change. Finally, Jeremy describes mobilizers as the people who “fill in the blanks” between plans in meeting rooms and action in the pharmacies, events, and streets. [5:03] - Two Communities, One Message The dual audiences of AHF mobilizers AHF mobilizers speak from two platforms, and toward two audiences — those within the community of people directly affected by AHF, and then those in the wider community to raise awareness. It’s about letting people affected know that AHF is fighting for them and giving them the resources they need, while also informing the larger general public about how they can get involved – and why they should. [7:30] - Other Names for Mobilizers If you want to understand mobilizers, hear what they call themselves “Rally girls.” “Community organizers.” “Community disruptors.” “Community liaisons.” “Activists.” “We’re not classy. Our job is to disrupt the order.” These quotes from this week’s guests show how being a mobilizer can mean many things, and encompass many things. But it all adds up to a nontraditional role that’s not meant to be stuffy, quiet, or “classy.” It’s about being loud and being a voice for the communities AHF is trying to serve. [10:04] - Uncomfortable But Never In Danger Keeping mobilizers safe in difficult situations Considering they’re on the front lines of AHF’s movement, mobilizers are often put into situations they describe as “high-risk” or “uncomfortable,” though none of our guests say they’ve ever felt as though their lives were in danger. They feel it’s their job to go places where others aren’t comfortable going, while also ensuring they and everyone they’re involved with are always safe and secure. [13:33] - What’s Next The future goals of AHF mobilizers In speaking to all three of our guest mobilizers this week about their future goals, one unifying message became clear — the goals are constantly changing with each event, mission, and even from day to day. When asked, “What are your goals?” the response is always: “What event are we working on?” That constantly evolving role can be challenging, of course, but it’s also exciting and invigorating for our mobilizer teams. “It really isn’t about the numbers sometimes,” Taylor shares. RESOURCES: [0:00] AHF Careers FOLLOW: LinkedInLinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and...

More than Marketing Insights into AHF’s communication and events wing GUEST BIO: Kevin Makdivichit is the Director of Marketing for AHF in the United States. Ebonni Chrispin is the Director of Legislative Affairs and Community Engagement for AHF. Max Alvarez is AHF’s Director of Events and Community Engagement. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:18] - AHF as Event Host Why AHF is taking an active role in in-person events International Condom Day. World AIDS Day. Marches, protests, and more. AHF is more active in life, in-person events than ever. Why? Because it’s important for people to engage. They say that birds flock, fish school, and people tribe. AHF is committed to using our tribe mentality to connect on potentially sticky subjects like STIs, AIDs, and safe sex. When we gather to openly discuss these issues in public, we remove the power of silence to keep us complacent and uncomfortable and we make these topics something that can be addressed openly and effectively. [4:56] - Starting with Greatest Need How AHF chooses events and locations How does AHF choose which events to host or participate in? It all starts with statistics. For example, the efforts surrounding International Condom Day centered around data about where STI rates were off the charts. All planning focused on using those numbers to go where public conversation and education was most needed. [7:10] - The Next Phase: Finding Partners Ebonni shares the importance of partnerships for events AHF isn’t an island. In every event, Ebonni stresses the importance of considering small nonprofits, community leaders, and even local, statewide, and federal elected officials to become potential partners. In order for people to become advocates, they need to have a reason to believe in the cause. That starts with bringing them onboard and making people and organizations of all sizes and backgrounds feel that they’re a part of something historically significant and vital. [14:57] - Keeping Events Free Why AHF makes their events free to the public Kevin relates how the “why” of AHF’s free events is more important than the “how.” Every event, show, protest, and gathering is all about a specific cause or message. It’s about getting more people in seats so they have the opportunity to learn something. The fewer barriers there are to people attending, the more opportunities there are for that learning and transformation to take place. RESOURCES: About International Condom DayAbout World AIDS DayAHF EventsFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to...

Having the Hard Conversations About SOFA and how AHF meets our community where they stand GUEST BIO: Tatiana Williams represents Transinclusive Group, a trans-led organization in affiliation with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Devina Boga is a member of the SOFA board and is a PhD candidate in the Prevention Science and Community Health Program, as well as a trainee in the Change T32 program. Vie works with Planned Parenthood as a sexual health educator and works in community partnership with AHF through Decrim 305, striving to decriminalize sex work across the state of Florida. Valoria Thomas is a former program manager at Broward House over counseling and testing, in an affiliate role with AHF. Crystal Echevarria is a community mobilizer for AHF, collaborating with other community partners to help educate people on the resources AHF has to offer. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [3:07] - What is SOFA? More than an advocacy group Tatiana describes SOFA as a source of community feedback for AHF. Its goal is to initiate important conversations that relate to meeting marginalized communities where they are, allowing those community members to take an active part in that conversation. Meanwhile, Vie talks about conversations that are already happening behind closed doors to the forefront of public discourse, providing medically accurate information and reducing stigma surrounding these topics. [19:08] - Lessons from Megan Thee Stallion’s Story Understanding the roots of domestic violence — and why we fail to trust women All our guests speak on the very public situation regarding Megan Thee Stallion becoming a victim of domestic violence and evening being shot as a result. The consensus overall is that again and again, even among publicly beloved figures, we doubt their stories until we have irrefutable proof. We ask about the circumstances surrounding their victimhood, whether there was anything they did to “cause” it. And as long as we continue to do that, women will continue to be victimized and kept from being empowered to escape these situations. [26:16] - Keeping Sex Education in School Not talking about it doesn’t mean it won’t happen For many young people, sex education in school is the only sex education available. There’s simply no evidence to suggest that sex education leads to increased sexual activity — in fact, sex education has been proven to reduce unwanted pregnancies, STDs, and other negative impacts to young people’s lives. That all begs the question — why is it continuously being removed from the curriculum? We have to ask ourselves who policies like this serve. Because it certainly isn’t the students and young people who are negatively impacted. RESOURCES: About Change T32About Decrim 305About Broward HouseFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering...

Back to BLACC Learning from and learning about the Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition GUEST BIO: Imara Canady is AHF’s National Director for communications and Community Engagement as well as the National Chair for the Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [3:00] - Made to Serve a Purpose The Origins of BLACC In the beginning, AHF founder Michael Weinstein recognized both the responsibility and opportunity to serve the Black community through AHF. Calling on Black board members, he asked for ways to more deeply and authentically connect with that community. This birthed the ABACT, or AHF Black AIDS Crisis Task Force. In just a few short years, the group had built strong coalitions in communities around the nation, and was able to branch out into other initiatives. These were the beginnings of BLACC. [11:20] - Racism as a Public Health Crisis Canady’s perspective on broadening the scope of public health Imara has found that the message of racism as a public health crisis has strongly resonated in communities across the nation. “We’ve been socialized to understand the definition of public health from a very linear definition, but really when you look at public health, there are many layers.” People of color have disproportionately low access to healthy food and general healthcare facilities, leading to lower quality of life and higher risk of medical conditions. Addressing systemic racism directly impacts physical health. [13:47] - Building Back Trust Repairing wounds between the healthcare industry and the Black community BLACC has been hard at work within local Black communities, building a relationship of trust. They started by meeting people and working together to understand their needs, not just instantly pushing the HIV/AIDS approach. They’ve also earned the trust of communities by not only providing financial support, but being a vocal supporter around issues that truly matter— whether it’s smaller organizations that are disenfranchised or individuals who feel marginalized. It’s about saying, “Let’s work on these issues together.” [18:18] - Get Involved Discover how you can help Want to help with BLACC’s mission? If you’re within the AHF family of employees, you can send an email to AHFBLACC@ahf.org. Otherwise, you can visit BLACC.net and request more information. No matter what community you're in, it'll link you to the local chapter of BLACC in your area. That’s a great place to start. RESOURCES: BLACC WebsiteFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod...

Food for Health How AHF is serving public health, starting with meeting basic nutritional needs GUEST BIO: Whitney Engeran-Cordova is the Vice President of Public Health Programs for AHF. Carlos Marroquin is the National Director of Food for Health Programs at AHF. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:15] - The Current State Problems Food for Health is built to address First up in our conversation, Whitney succinctly addresses the primary issues relating to food insecurity. “Most food delivery systems are done at a very local level, obviously through churches and through other kinds of institutions. Some of those tend to not be as stable as we would like them to be in terms of how they get the food, how they distribute it.” Food for Health was designed to bring stability to this system. [3:38] - Three Models for Success Varying methods for getting food where it’s needed The first model for food delivery is food pantries, built to serve people who desperately need food at a very low cost or for free. They offer food that’s healthy, fresh, and designed to meet nutritional needs. The second model is the AHF Marketplace, which is essentially a storefront. These small grocery stores offer food for sale at very affordable prices, especially designed to be oases in “food deserts”— places where healthy, fresh, and nutritious food is difficult or impossible to find. Finally, the third model is an experimental concept in which AHF develops a restaurant-style environment. People can come and eat food that’s priced very, very low to be affordable for everyone. This concept is designed to serve people who don’t have the ability to cook their own meals and want hot, well-prepared meals. [11:59] - The Beginnings of Food for Health Seeing and meeting dramatic need Carlos emphasizes that even though the pandemic put food insecurity issues into stark relief, those issues were already quite present before then. “We saw lines at the food banks that literally people had to wait for hours to get food, and that was prior to the pandemic. When the pandemic hit, it was chaos because now people couldn't go to work, now people were losing their jobs and there was no access to food. There was very little access. And the regional food banks…were struggling to keep up with the demand.” AHF leaders such as Carlos and Whitney saw there was a need for long-term solutions, not just short-term fixes. This was how Food for Health was born. [14:32] - The Next Step in A Legacy of Service Passionate messages on the future of AHF Whitney and Carlos both believe that this historical moment is a pivotal one when it comes to serving human need worldwide, both for AHF as an organization and each of us as individuals. “This is the time,” Whitney says, “for us to really lean in. Whether it's about food, whether it's about housing, whether it is about advocacy and holding government accountable for its actions, whether it is in healthcare… this is our time to be of maximum use to the people that we serve. “AHF was founded on the premise of taking care of those who were dying and giving them a death … with dignity. That turned into other things, and as that turned into our healthcare, it's now turned into our housing, it's turned into food, it's turned into our care for people in STI clinics. It's turned into so many elements of what we've done…This is really in service of our overall greater mission and that it is perfectly in keeping with what we do and what we know we do well, and that this is our time in this global moment to be of maximum service to those that we serve and to our communities.” RESOURCES: About Food for HealthAbout Food InsecurityFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast...

Serving Women at AHF Turning the spotlight on how AHF provides care and advocacy for women GUEST BIOS: Cyan CardySandyann MunroeCassandra EsperatOluwakemi (Kemi) GbadamosiCORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:42] - About Girls Act A response to changing trends Girls Act was launched in 2006 in response to higher rates of new HIV infections amongst young women and girls. In Africa, the statistics have risen even higher. Girls Act creates opportunities for girls to live healthier lives and to be able to thrive in their environments. It doesn’t only focus on girls living with HIV, but in fact is about prevention and ensuring everyone has the tools and support they need to stay healthy, reduce unplanned pregnancies, stay in school, or stay in care if they are infected. [5:48] - About Spark Another women-centric AHF affinity group Spark is an affinity group of AHF launched when people within the organization determined their should be a group dedicated to assisting women with overall health and wellbeing — all women and girls, all ages, everywhere. Key goals of Spark include providing access, resources, and knowledge that’s relevant to the current climate: voting power, menstrual poverty, equity and equality, and personal initiatives launched by Spark members. [9:33] - The Four Pillars of Girls Act A foundation to build from when serving girls globally The four pillars of the girls act are knowledge, mentorship & scholarship, agency, and psychosocial support. Knowledge relates to skills building and information, reducing power imbalances due to girls simply not having access to education or financial independence. Mentorship provides support and role modeling so that girls can empower each other, as well as scholarship to help bring education to more girls worldwide. Agency relates to empowering girls to use their own voices and engage decision makers themselves through leadership, communication, and advocacy training. Finally, psychosocial support provides strength for girls living with HIV or trying to thrive in challenging circumstances. [17:18] - The Importance of Menstrual Health and Equality One of Spark’s central missions explained One in ten girls in sub-Saharan Africa miss as much as 20% of their school year due to their periods. In addition to giving out sanitary pads so that girls can function better with less disruption while on their periods, Spark is teaching girls how to speak about their body, speak with their peers and family, and end the stigma — including among boys in school — so they and everyone around them can see their periods as natural and normal. [24:25] - Get Involved with Spark and Girls Act How you can contribute The quickest way to get involved and informed on Spark’s mission is to follow them on Instagram (@sparkthe_convo) or send a DM. You can also visit the Spark website at www.sparkunited.org, sign up for a newsletter, and fill out a brief contact form. You’ll usually be contacted within 24 hours about how you can get involved. To get involved with Girls Act, either message the Instagram (@girlsactinternational) or connect with the country program coordinator or program manager for Girl’s Act. RESOURCES: Spark UnitedGirls Act About Menstrual PovertyFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with...

AHF in Europe Exploring how AHF’s mission is progressing across the Atlantic GUEST BIO: Zoya Shabarova is the Europe Bureau Chief based in the Netherlands, covering the UK, Netherlands, Estonia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Georgia, Greece, Portugal, and soon Poland. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [4:36] - Picking Our Places Deciding where to expand in Europe and beyond Expanding AHF in Europe and elsewhere is a balancing act. On one hand, the organization’s leaders look for the areas of greatest need, such as Ukraine in recent months. But they also seek opportunities where governments are open to partnerships and policymakers are actively seeking help from organizations such as this one. Where need and opportunity meet, AHF is able to accomplish amazing things. [7:35] - Caring During Wartime How AHF’s mission in Ukraine continues even amidst war AHF’s program activities in Ukraine have not stopped for a moment, thanks to the tireless efforts of AHF team members at every level of the organization. “We were prepared, we had supplies, we had communication, and we really started to provide very efficient care to our patients— and not only patients who continue to be on the site, but patients who were on the road, fleeing for safe places, and also patients who then became refugees in other countries.” [13:34] - AIDS in Europe: Where We Stand The status of the fight against HIV and AIDS in Europe In 2021 the Europe Bureau of AHF celebrated ten years since its establishment in 2011. Since then, the need continues— Eastern Europe is the only part of the world where HIV infection continues to grow. In Western Europe, countries are actively participating in international aid and funding. So AHF’s two primary tasks in the battle are to develop cost-efficient and community-based models for access to care, and providing migrants coming from developing countries with the care they need. [17:31] - Overcoming Challenges Unique roadblocks to establishing AHF in European countries AHF must face and overcome unique challenges to adoption and care everywhere we go, including in Europe. Much of Estonia actively pursues a monopolist healthcare system in which community organizations are kept from providing care. AHF is seeking to help this and other nations see the power of partnership with civil society. RESOURCES: AHF’s Global OperationsHIV in Eastern EuropeHealthcare for Refugees in EuropeFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to...

Getting to Know Grants Exploring a vital part of AHF’s operations GUEST BIOS: Shibu Sam is the National Director of Contracts for the Aids Healthcare Foundation. Artur Oktanyan is the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s Senior Director of Grants. Lyle Honig Mojica is the Chief Financial Officer for the Aids Healthcare Foundation. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:35] - Why Grants Matter Lyle Honig Mojica on the importance of grants Grants allow AHF to create a partnership with a local government, allowing AHF to expand what we do in the region and support the overall community. Meanwhile, it provides access to other forms of funding for extending AHF’s mission. [5:03] - Grants Both Ways How AHF provides grants of its own to smaller organizations In addition to receiving grant funding (4% of AHF’s budget comes from grants), AHF also provides grant funding to other organizations— particularly during the pandemic. One way we do this is through AHF Fund, a program designed to help organizations at the grassroots level as they seek to improve the lives and wellbeing of people with HIV. [9:03] - How to Donate Want to help fund AHF’s mission? Here’s how. AHF accepts direct donations online through the website using a credit card or, more recently, cryptocurrency. They also accept checks, which are often written by individuals in memory of someone they’ve lost to HIV or AIDS. Some companies— IBM and American Express, for example— will match any donations made by their employees. RESOURCES: AHF FundHow to DonateFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to launch today’s most compelling podcasts. What Motown was to musical artists, Detroit Podcast Studios is to podcast artists today. With over 75 combined years of experience in content development, audio production, music scoring, storytelling, and digital marketing, Detroit Podcast Studios provides full-service development, training, and production capabilities to take podcasts from messy ideas to finely tuned hits. Here’s to making (podcast) history together. Learn more at: DetroitPodcastStudios.com

Another Kind of Epidemic How AHF is combating the opioid epidemic nationwide GUEST BIO: Vahe Lepedjian is an Advanced Practice Pharmacist at AHF’s Hollywood flagship pharmacy. Maxie Sabackic is the Western Regional Director of Pharmacy Operations, overseeing all pharmacy operations within the AHF pharmacies served out of California, Washington, and Nevada. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:09] - It Starts with a Text A simple beginning to a transformative shift One day, Vahe texted Maxie about wanting to do more to combat the opioid pandemic. This simple instance of acting on a positive impulse led to the involvement of sales, public health, advocacy, and managed care departments and AHF partners to offer fentanyl test strips to countless patients and community members. Lives were potentially saved at the very first event where the strips were given out, after two people back to report they had detected deadly fentanyl in a drug sample. A couple days later, 300 units were gone after a single day of San Diego Pride. [7:54] - A Higher-Risk Patient Base What AHF patients should know AHF patients are at a higher risk of contracting HIV due to IV drug use, something that pharmacists and clinicians at AHF have to be mindful of when treating them. If fentanyl is injected, even if its been cut into other drugs, it can be fatal. [12:04] - Spreading the Word, Spreading the Help Getting knowledge and test strips nationwide Maxie emphasizes the end goal of AHF’s efforts— fighting the opioid epidemic. They’ve obtained a grant with the Naloxone Distribution Project which provides free units of Narcan, allowing them to hand them out to the community for free. They hope to spread this service to as many states as possible to make the largest possible impact— all while educating pharmacists on their role. [15:45] - If You’re Struggling with Addiction The first step is the most important If you’re struggling with opioid addiction, know that you can always find support. When you’re ready to make a change, AHF will be there to help you make it. AHF can provide Narcan and the training to know how to use it. RESOURCES: About the Opioid Epidemicpreventoverdose@aidshealth.orgPrevent-Overdose.comFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to launch today’s most compelling podcasts. What Motown was to musical artists, Detroit Podcast Studios is to podcast artists today. With over 75 combined years of experience in content...

Putting the “Care” in Managed Care Perspectives from our managed care team at AHF GUEST BIO: Julio Roberto is a medical social worker out of the Fort Lauderdale bureau. Karen Haughey is a registered nurse and Vice President of Managed Care, also based in Fort Lauderdale. Rebeca Rubio is the National Director of Managed Care Operations and Program Development based in Los Angeles. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:13] - Defining Managed Care at AHF What they do and what it means Managed care is a far-reaching term at AHF, including everything from providing support for people without a healthcare plan to offering integrated medication management and case management regardless of insurance status. The overall effect is greater patient care and satisfaction among a group of people who often come into AHF frightened and with no idea how to begin their journey. Managed care provides them with empathy and direction. [8:04] - Day-to-Day with Patients What managed care means on the ground The managed care team’s goal is to soon have a representative available to speak to every single person who walks into an AHF healthcare center. This isn’t currently the norm nationwide among big box insurance companies. In AHF’s vision, everybody will get a care manager and a full team to ensure they get what they need, when they need it— all with a focus on empathy. [12:20] - Working with Other AHF Business Lines A culture of collaboration Managed care works with nearly every line of business at the organization, from finance and IT to the healthcare centers themselves. For example, they work directly with healthcare centers as it relates to patients receiving bills or claims on the health insurance side. If a patient receives a bill, they can communicate with managed care about getting it processed for payment— and ensuring they don’t get surprise bills. [17:31] - Final Thoughts What AHF members and patients should know about the managed care team Karen shares a common refrain she shares at managed care: “Managed care dances on the edge of all of our contracts, and our regulations, and the mission. When we fall, we always fall on the side of the mission." The biggest takeaway is that managed care exists to make the mission of AHF— patient health— their personal mission. “When we collaborate on that, or put that together with the mission of AHF, everyone benefits.” RESOURCES: AHF Healthcare CentersFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of...

Love & Service in the South Insights from two of our closest affiliates in the Southern Bureau GUEST BIO: Nicole Roebuck is Executive Director of AID Atlanta, an affiliate of AHF since June 2015. Kelly Allen Gray is the executive director of AIDS Outreach Center in Fort Worth, Texas, an affiliate of AHF since 2017. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:26] - 40 Years in Service AID Atlanta’s path from grassroots to massive impact AID Atlanta celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. Nicole shares the organization’s path from a small group of people trying to give people living with HIV and AIDS a better life to operating a healthcare center, enormous case management program, housing programs, prevention and testing services, and more. The key to their longevity? Never losing that early sense of one-to-one service and grassroots energy. [4:47] - The Evolving Story of AIDS Patient Care From dark early days to a time of hope When the AIDS Outreach Center was founded, its purpose was simply to help people with AIDS have an opportunity to die with grace and dignity. As our understanding of HIV and AIDS have evolved, that mission has expanded exponentially. They now offer a full-scale healthcare clinic, dental clinic, nutrition center, and much more. That evolution speaks to the positive evolution of how we’re able to help people live with and move beyond an HIV or AIDS diagnosis. [10:09] - The Power of Affiliate Partnerships From closing doors to opening new opportunities Despite its vital mission, AID Atlanta was once on the brink of closing its doors due to financial constraints. But through the AHF affiliate program, they were able to ensure that the agency continued its legacy footprint in the Atlanta area. Stability, security, and availability for clients have all been the results of that affiliation and AID Atlanta’s continued service. [25:49] - From Volunteers to Full-Time Staff Getting involved with these key affiliates Want to be a part of AID Atlanta or the AIDS Outreach Center? Go online at the links in the Resources section of these show notes to find out how you can serve. Volunteers at these organizations often go on to find more formal positions and make serving in the AIDS and HIV community a lifetime pursuit. RESOURCES: AID AtlantaAIDS Outreach Center, Fort WorthAIDS Walk AtlantaFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to launch today’s most compelling podcasts. What Motown was to musical...

Housing as a Public Health Mission How AHF is helping change the conversation around housing and human rights GUEST BIO: Dominique Eastman is the Regional Property Operations Manager for the Healthy Housing Foundation. Susie Shannon is the Policy Director for Housing is a Human Right. Mark Dyer is the Vice President of Operations for Corporate Real Estate and Housing. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:03] - Finding Rooms for Those Who Need Them Understanding housing as a human right AHF has recently been buying up vacant properties for the purpose of adaptive reuse—taking existing buildings and infrastructure and converting it into affordable housing for people who are low-income or unhoused. AHF also advocates on behalf of that housing, helping ensure that people are moved into housing quickly so they can begin to experience a stable environment. [4:09] - Getting Strategic with Building Purchasing About AHF’s strategy for buying living spaces AHF focuses on large, empty older buildings—including SROs or vacant residential hotel buildings. There are approximately 10,000 vacant rooms in Los Angeles, and AHF focuses on finding them, acquiring them, improving them, and providing them as housing for unhoused people. [7:52] - Advocacy First How AHF is taking steps to protect unhoused or low-income people AHF’s advocacy efforts relating to rent burdened or unhoused people have included running a national campaign to lift the ban on rent control. They’ve also released a campaign of full-page ads in the LA Times highlighting vacant buildings and how they could be used to house people in need. [18:55] - How to Get Involved with AHF’s Housing Efforts Want to contribute to making housing a human right? Here’s how Dominique stresses that she has an open door policy where anyone can come and be provided with opportunities to contribute. You can also visit healthyhousingfoundation.net or housinghumanright.org, or email HHF management directly. RESOURCES: The Healthy Housing FoundationHousing is a Human RightFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to launch today’s most compelling podcasts. What Motown was to musical artists, Detroit Podcast Studios is to podcast artists today. With over 75 combined years of experience in content development, audio production, music scoring, storytelling, and digital marketing, Detroit Podcast Studios provides full-service development, training, and production capabilities to take...

Planning for Plan B Discussing Plan B after the loss of Roe v. Wade GUEST BIO: Brandon Patchett is the Senior Director of Pharmacy for Clinical Services for AHF Pharmacy Cindy Markarian is the Senior Director of Pharmacy for the Strategic Response Team. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:36] - What Exactly is Plan B? And what it’s not Plan B is an emergency contraceptive, taken within 72 hours after intercourse in order to prevent pregnancy. It’s not meant to be used on a routine basis as a contraceptive, and is not an abortion medication. It can be used both in the event of a broken condom or forgotten birth control, and in the rare but awful circumstance of rape. [3:45] - Availability of Plan B Finding it and stocking up While no one should be hoarding Plan B, it is possible to stock up in case of emergencies. AHF pharmacies carry Plan B, and it has a shelf life of multiple years. The best part? All AHF pharmacies offer Plan B absolutely free, whereas many other pharmacies may sell it for as much as $50 per pill. [7:43] - Pharmacists as Patient Advocates More than dispensing medication One thing you’ll find at all AHF pharmacies is that team members are much more than just pharmacists. Their goal is to advocate for patients, helping them overcome barriers and even sometimes remain discreet and confidential. They’re trained to be respectful and non-judgmental, making it as easy as possible to get the solution patients need and provide optimal healthcare. [9:40] - Not Just HIV Specialists Taking on public health in all areas Today’s guests take another opportunity to remind listeners that AHF isn’t just focused on HIV patients. It is made up of public health experts who are dedicated to helping the community in a wide range of ways, and offering Plan B is just one facet of that. RESOURCES: AHF PharmaciesHow Plan B WorksFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to launch today’s most compelling podcasts. What Motown was to musical artists, Detroit Podcast Studios is to podcast artists today. With over 75 combined years of experience in content development, audio production, music scoring, storytelling, and digital marketing, Detroit Podcast Studios provides full-service development, training, and production capabilities to take podcasts from messy ideas to finely tuned hits. Here’s to making (podcast) history together. Learn more at: DetroitPodcastStudios.com

Joy and Identity in Every Community How affinity groups help serve individuals and unite us all GUEST BIO: Jose Ramos is the founder of Impulse Group, as well as the AHF’s National Director of Sales. Queen Victoria Ortega is International president of Flux and Chief Visionary Officer at the Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center, as well as a volunteer with AHF. Edwin Elan is National President of Loud, Latino Outreach and Understanding Division Chela Demuir is Vice President of Flux, an organization that aims to raise the profile of the trans and gender-nonconforming community. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:07] - About Affinity Groups An essential role and partnership Affinity groups are groups that are specific to an individual demographic within the community served by AHF, designed to take more focused advantage of AHF’s resources. It’s about taking a group of people and determining their unique needs and how AHF can serve them and help them most effectively. [8:27] - More than a Disease Why sexual health and education are so vital One of the issues relating to sexual health in communities is pathologizing, or the consideration (and ‘treatment’) of trans communities based only on a mindset of disease and sickness. But this misses the larger context when breaking down the numbers around economic health and other factors in the trans community. Affinity groups and AHF resources work together to generate economic empowerment and community health. [10:28] - Health & Education in the Latino Community Overcoming misconceptions and miseducation In the community of Latinos and gay men as a whole, misconceptions and miseducation abound. It’s important that it’s well known that antivirals are very effective, and there are preventative methods available. New diagnoses can be preventable if people are educated and empowered. [15:00] - A Narrative of Joy Changing the perspective on black trans people Coverage of the black trans community is often bleak, pessimistic, and focused on suffering. But Flux helped change the narrative with a photo series and program called Black Trans Joy, showing the joy, highlights, achievements, and journey of the community and proving that it’s not all trauma. It’s been a powerful tool for breaking down barriers and helping black trans people become seen and heard in their fullness of experience. RESOURCES: About Impulse GroupAbout FluxAbout Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment CenterAbout the Latino Outreach and Understanding DivisionFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and...

Pharmacies: Our Bridge to Communities Why it’s about more than filling prescriptions GUEST BIO: Jose Ramos is the National Director of Sales for AHF. Cindy Markarian is Senior Director of Pharmacy, overseeing the strategic response team nationwide. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:09] - More than Medication The vital role of AHF pharmacies Cindy speaks on how AHF pharmacies serve as more than just places to provide medication— they’re also AHF’s link to the community, where we can spread the word about all our services and what our pharmacies can provide. [5:34] - The Power of Credibility Face-to-face interactions grow trust Jose Ramos says that providers want to see pharmacists face-to-face, and he’s seen how visiting with pharmacists encourages them to send prescriptions to AHF pharmacies. This is contrast to many big pharmacies, in which both patients and pharmacists are simply numbers in a machine. With AHF, patients feel they can call up and speak to a human being and ask questions. [15:22] - Starting with Education Honest conversations are essential Jose talks openly and frankly about a lot of the ways that PrEP can help serve people who may not know it— or feel comfortable with it. But he says that “education is really where we need to start with a lot of this. There’s so much that’s still not talked about— even just starting with sex education.” [20:57] - Helping Patients Live Full Lives Beyond HIV treatment Cindy stresses that people are now living longer than ever with HIV, and that has meant AHF pharmacies are expanding to serve the full range of health needs of patients. They’ve become experts on dealing with diabetes, even oncology, kidney failure, heart disease, and much more. They’re holistic services, and it’s important that more patients are aware of that. It’s about more than just HIV. RESOURCES: Find an AHF PharmacyWhat is PrEP?FOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to launch today’s most compelling podcasts. What Motown was to musical artists, Detroit Podcast Studios is to podcast artists today. With over 75 combined years of experience in content development, audio production, music scoring, storytelling, and digital marketing, Detroit Podcast Studios provides full-service development, training, and production capabilities to take podcasts from messy ideas to finely tuned hits. Here’s to making (podcast) history together. Learn more at: DetroitPodcastStudios.com

The Amazing Affiliates Working hard and working together to accomplish more GUEST BIOS: Rosemary Lopez is the Executive Director of the AIDS Center of Queens County. Gregory Noone is Executive Director of Thursday’s Child of Long Island. Ingrid Floyd is Executive Director of Iris House, as well as interim Executive Director of WORLD. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [2:02] - AHF & ACQC: THE PERFECT MATCH How affiliate relationships complete the puzzle Ten years ago, AIDS Center of Queens County offered comprehensive wraparound services, but not medical and pharmacy services that could so deeply benefit their people. They became affiliates of AHF in order to take advantage of those capabilities, and in turn allow their patients to access these services to their benefit. [3:49] - Looking Forward to the Future Why organizations adopt affiliate roles with AHF Before joining with AHF, Iris House was at a crossroads. Their leadership was questioning what the future of the organization looked like, and weren’t finding success with any of the organizations they were meeting with at the time. Ultimately, the strategic capabilities that an affiliate relationship with AHF allowed for made all the difference in helping Iris House meet their goals for the future. [6:27] - New Kid on the Block AHF’s newest affiliate on joining with the organization Thursday’s Child is the newest AHF affiliate, and Executive Director Gregory Noone says that despite their different cultures, AHF and Thursday’s Child share an identical mission that makes them the perfect fit. Is the collaboration always seamless? Of course not. But the unified vision for the future brings out the best in everyone from both sides of the affiliation. [9:07] - What Does It Mean to Be an Affiliate of AHF? Hearing from three distinct voices What does an affiliate partnership with AHF look like? To Rosemary Lopez and ACQC, it looks like expanded programming, testing, food preparation capabilities, and comprehensive services. For Ingrid Floyd and her team at Iris House, it means having a true partner both in doing the work and in reaching the community. And for Gregory Noone, it means that Thursday’s Child has access to a well of expertise that’s almost unmatched in the fight against AIDS and other public health & social justice issues. RESOURCES: About the Article 31 Mental Health ClinicHOPWAHASAFOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join the fight to make cutting-edge medicine, treatment, and support available for anyone who needs it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhogan3https://www.aidshealth.orgABOUT DETROIT PODCAST STUDIOS: In Detroit, history was made when Barry Gordy opened Motown Records back in 1960. More than just discovering great talent, Gordy built a systematic approach to launching superstars. His rigorous processes, technology, and development methods were the secret sauce behind legendary acts such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. As a nod to the past, Detroit Podcast Studios leverages modern versions of Motown’s processes to launch today’s most...

Speaking with the Future, Part II More perspectives from the next generation of advocates GUEST BIO: Sasha (age 18) and Andrew (age 17) are youth advocates and the children of AHF employees. Andrew is a student at McKinley Technology High School in Washington, DC, while Sasha will attend Ohio University in 2023, studying early childhood education. Tracy Jones is the National Director of Mobilization Campaigns for AHF. Rebecca Strong is the Associate Director of Advocacy in Washington, D.C. John Hassell is the National Director of Advocacy in Washington, D.C. Simpson Huggins is the Northern Affiliate Regional Finance Director. Laila Goring is a pharmacy sales representative at AHF. CORE TOPICS + DETAILS: [4:41] - The Big 3 Top advocacy issues according to our youth guests Sasha and Andrew list reproductive rights, racial inequity, and climate change as the top issues facing our nation today. Now the question lies in how we can convince the next generation to get involved in helping combat these issues, because the truth is that they’ll be the ones bearing the brunt of their impact in the future. [8:34] - Bridging Generations A complex relationship from one era to the next Ask Andrew and Sasha about whether the previous generation understands their needs and concerns, and the answer is complicated. On one hand, youth often find that the previous generations actively dismiss some of their concerns. On the other hand, they often find that, even if sometimes misguided, their elders at least make an effort to support their needs. [19:13] - Making Children Safe Candid discussions on gun violence On the federal level, both Andrew and Sasha feel that legislation needs to be enacted that addresses gun violence head-on. On the local level, schools can only do so much. Security guards can help, but what psychological effects does an armed guard have on young elementary school children? These are the questions that no young person should be facing. [29:25] - Answering Tough Questions from the Next Generation When the parents have to listen & learn Once we’re joined by some of AHF’s adult members, including parents of our two youth guests, the perspective shifts. Our guests share the way that even they have had to evolve and educate themselves in order to be true allies— becoming familiar with non-binary terms, pronouns, etc. Adults have to be willing to be taught by children, a role we’re often not naturally equipped to handle. [36:11] - Lessons from the Back Seat A powerful metaphor on cross-generational connection John Hassell shares a striking analogy about the importance of intergenerational communication, relating it to when he’s driving with his son in the backseat. “I'm in the front seat just trying to get from point A to point B in really difficult traffic. Andrew's in the back opening up about an issue that's really important to him, what's going on in his life, what happened in his past, or what the future may look like…Maybe move over to the side of the road and listen to what you’re talking about.” FOLLOW: LinkedInInstagramABOUT AFTER HOURS: The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, operating in 45 countries globally. The mission? Providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy for everyone, regardless of ability to pay. The After Hours podcast is an official podcast of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, in which host Lauren Hogan is joined by experts in a range of fields to educate, inform, and inspire listeners on topics that go far beyond medical information to cover leadership, creativity, and success. Learn more at: https://www.aidshealth.org ABOUT THE HOST: Lauren Hogan is the Associate Director of Communications for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and has been working in a series of roles with the Foundation since 2016. She’s passionate about increasing the public visibility of AIDS, the Foundation's critical work, and how everyday people can help join...