When Fibromyalgia Masks Autism and ADHD: Diagnostic Overshadowing and Neuroplastic Pain

The script argues that fibromyalgia’s pain, fatigue, and brain fog can act as “diagnostic overshadowing,” masking underlying undiagnosed autism and/or ADHD. Referencing Dr. Megan Anna Neff’s video on how autism can hide ADHD, the narrator (a physician) connects neurodivergent traits to central sensitization and nociplastic pain, suggesting a nervous system “born” with high sensory volume that overheats from lifelong adaptation to a neurotypical world. Examples include autistic rigidity and routines masking ADHD while fueling hypervigilance; combined ADHD task paralysis and autistic inertia contributing to “fibro fog”; special interests functioning as regulating deep focus but driving boom-bust cycles and stress on reentry; and layered masking that ends in collapse framed as flares. The script concludes that recognizing autism/ADHD improves self-understanding and guides lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms.

00:00 Fibro as Medical Mystery
00:35 Diagnostic Overshadowing
01:08 Neurodivergence Behind Pain
01:44 Autism Hiding ADHD
02:30 Central Sensitization Link
03:05 Rigidity Mask Explained
04:45 Hypervigilance and Stress
05:15 Task Paralysis and Inertia
07:06 Special Interests Solar System
08:39 Defensive Deep Focus Cycle
10:08 The Grand Masking Trap
11:50 Self Understanding as Treatment
12:23 Closing and Next Steps

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

2025 Pediatric Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) Guidelines: A Brain–Gut, Migraine-Based Action Plan

The script explains updated 2025 guidelines for pediatric cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS), framing CVS as a disorder of gut–brain interaction and a “migraine equivalent,” with up to 82% of affected children having personal or family migraine history, shifting treatment focus to the central nervous system. It highlights links to nociplastic pain/central sensitization and higher rates of neurodivergence (ADHD, autism), supporting a holistic biopsychosocial approach and trigger management, especially consistent sleep. Key terminology (abortive vs prophylactic therapy, strong vs conditional recommendations) is clarified. The only strong recommendation is early abortive anti-migraine therapy (triptans like sumatriptan or high-dose NSAIDs like ibuprofen) during prodrome; conditional options include aprepitant, ondansetron, and early IV rehydration. Prevention starts with lifestyle and supplements (riboflavin, CoQ10), then escalates to propranolol, cyproheptadine, or amitriptyline; topiramate is generally avoided unless others fail. The guidelines address catamenial and “calendar time” CVS, distinguish CVS from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome via six months of cannabis cessation, and emphasize creating a written green/yellow/red CVS action plan for home, school, and emergency care.

00:00 Lost in the Fog
01:56 CVS as Brain Gut Disorder
04:19 Migraine Link Explained
06:13 Nociplastic Pain and Sensitization
08:48 Neurodivergence Connection
10:50 Guideline Terms Decoded
13:26 Abortive Rescue Plan
17:18 Preventing Future Episodes
22:05 Special Subtypes and CHS
24:08 Action Plan Zones
26:04 Holistic Approach and Wrap Up

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Dr. Megan Anna Neff on Late-Identified Autism, Autistic Burnout, and Self-Care

Clinical psychologist Dr. Megan Anna Neff discusses how discovering her child was autistic near the end of her doctorate led her to research autism in girls, recognize her own autism, and create Neurodivergent Insights to translate peer-reviewed research into visuals. She and the host describe gaps in clinical training, frequent missed or misdiagnosed autism and ADHD in adults, limited access to adult assessment, and the value and risks of formal diagnosis. Neff explains autistic burnout as nervous-system burnout marked by chronic exhaustion, increased sensory sensitivity and meltdowns, and loss of skills, and notes masking, life transitions, and alexithymia as contributors while cautioning to rule out medical causes. They address overlaps with chronic pain, suicidality risk, and poor response to CBT when neurotype is unsupported. Neff outlines her book "Self-Care for Autistic People" (sensory, physical, emotional, mental, social, and professional self-care) and shares where to find her work and community.

00:00 Meet Dr Megan Neff
01:32 The Zigzag Into Autism
04:16 Health Psychology Roots
05:14 Training Gaps In Adults
08:32 Self Diagnosis And Screening
13:01 What Is Autistic Burnout
17:07 Misdiagnosis And Function
21:38 Burnout Versus Medical Causes
24:30 Triggers And Risk Factors
27:21 Why Burnout Builds
28:57 Sensory Safety First
31:37 Quick Fix Coping Traps
34:15 Screening and Misdiagnosis
38:03 Liberation Then Grief
40:39 Autistic Self Care Basics
44:20 Book Chapters and Tips
48:47 Advice for Three Groups
52:59 Resources and Farewell

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Autism Acceptance Month Series: Beyond Awareness to Sensory Truth, Masking, and Invisible Illness

The script introduces an April autism acceptance month video series aimed at moving beyond awareness to genuine acceptance by explaining the lived experience of autism, especially profound sensory differences, masking, routines as safety, and meltdowns as overwhelm rather than tantrums. It frames autism as a different way of being human in a world built for one “type of brain,” and highlights links between autism, ADHD, and chronic invisible illnesses. The series features guides including Dr. Megan Anna Neff (burnout, unmasking, self-care), Dr. Barry Prizant (autistic behaviors as coping strategies), Dr. Jennifer Frazier (bullying’s brain impacts and healing), and memoirist Leland Vitter (resilience and family support). Weekly topics include neurodiversity, harms of functioning labels, late diagnosis, masking, burnout, sensory self-care, bullying and gaslighting, advocacy, and revisiting the highly sensitive person concept with 2026 understanding.

00:00 Sensory Overload Walkthrough
00:23 Autism Acceptance Mission
00:48 Beyond Social Struggles
01:25 Masking Routines Meltdowns
01:59 Meet the Expert Guides
02:27 Dr Prizant Uniquely Human
02:53 Bullying Brain Science
03:17 Leland Vitter Story
03:39 Week by Week Roadmap
03:54 Late Diagnosis Unmasking
04:07 Self Care and Sensory Tools
04:16 Systems Solutions Advocacy
04:35 HSP and High Masking
04:56 More Than a Series
05:11 Join the Comments
05:20 Changing the Lens
05:59 Closing and Next Episode

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

2026 POTS Guidelines: What They Update—and the Biggest Blind Spots (Hypermobility, Neurodivergence, and Root Causes)

The script reviews the new 2026 POTS Guidelines, noting improvements such as formalized diagnostic criteria, recognition of symptoms beyond tachycardia (GI issues, chronic pain, cognitive dysfunction), and first-line nonpharmacological strategies (fluids/sodium, compression) with a tiered medication approach before graded exercise. It argues the guidelines still miss key drivers for many patients by treating POTS too much as a standalone cardiac issue and failing to emphasize hypermobility/EDS as a common underlying structural cause, including not mandating routine hypermobility screening. It also highlights a major omission: the well-documented triad linking POTS, hypermobility, and neurodivergence (ADHD/autism), arguing that screening and support for neurodivergence can improve brain fog, stress/burnout, and even pain, and that ignoring this skews treatment toward cardiac drugs. The video further situates POTS within overlapping syndromes like fibromyalgia and ME/CFS and cites a 2026 case-control study connecting chronic pain/fatigue with higher odds of likely autism/ADHD, mediated by joint hypermobility, urging a more holistic diagnostic and treatment approach.

00:00 Why Guidelines Miss You
01:09 What 2026 Adds
02:23 The Missing Why
02:53 Hypermobility Blind Spot
05:03 Neurodivergence Omission
07:25 Treatment Algorithm Flaws
09:42 Bigger Syndrome Constellation
11:50 Key Takeaways Recap
12:53 Advocate and Share
13:36 Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The 2026 Cholesterol Revolution: PREVENT Scores, Hidden Risk Markers, and CAC Scans

The script explains how 2026 ACC/AHA guideline changes aim to make heart attacks more preventable by shifting from short-term “10-year risk” thinking to “lower for longer,” precision prevention, and primordial prevention starting earlier in life. It critiques the older Pooled Cohort Equations for underestimating risk in younger people and introduces the PREVENT equation, which adds 30-year risk plus kidney, metabolic, and social factors. It highlights lipoprotein(a) as a largely genetic once-in-a-lifetime test and hs-CRP as an inflammation marker, and emphasizes coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring as a tiebreaker for statin decisions (0, 1–99, ≥100). Cases illustrate these tools, including tighter LDL goals (<70 for high risk, <55 for very high risk/secondary prevention) and expanded therapies (statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, bempedoic acid) alongside whole-food plant-based diet, exercise, and smoking cessation, with a 30-day action plan.

00:00 Heart Disease Wake Up
01:24 Why Old Risk Scores Failed
02:18 A Personal Time Bomb
03:29 Three Big Guideline Shifts
05:53 Prevent Score Explained
07:56 Hidden Risks Lp(a) hsCRP
10:52 Calcium Score Reality Check
13:52 Real Patient Stories
17:06 Modern Meds And Myths
19:58 Chronic Pain Connection
21:45 Doctor Checklist And Challenge
24:25 Choose Your Future

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this enlightening video, we explore the concept of "tension myositis syndrome," a condition where the brain generates chronic pain, challenging traditional biomedical views. We examine Dr. Sarno's groundbreaking work and how he explained the "mindbody syndrome" through a neurodevelopmental lens. Learn how understanding the intricate connection between the brain and pain and the role of emotions and pain can help manage conditions like nociplastic pain, offering strategies for healing and regulation.
Imagine Sarah, living with chronic widespread pain for over a decade, her muscles and joints constantly aching, waking up exhausted. This video introduces the concept of "tension myositis syndrome" (TMS), explaining it as a condition where the brain generates pain, challenging traditional biomedical approaches. We explore Dr. John Sarno's work and suggest a "nociplastic pain" lens, including strategies for managing "sensory overload" and regulating "neurodiversity" systems, offering new perspectives on "chronic pain" within the framework of "mindbody syndrome."
Imagine Sarah, living with chronic widespread pain for over a decade, her muscles and joints constantly aching, waking up exhausted. This video introduces the concept of "tension myositis syndrome" (TMS), explaining it as a condition where the brain generates pain, challenging traditional biomedical approaches. We explore Dr. John Sarno's work and suggest a "nociplastic pain" lens, including strategies for managing "sensory overload" and regulating "neurodiversity" systems, offering new perspectives on "chronic pain" within the framework of "mindbody syndrome."

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Navigating ADHD and Chronic Pain: Dr. Kerry Shea's Journey from OB GYN to ADHD Coach

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Kerry Shea, an OB GYN who transitioned to working as an ADHD coach. Dr. Shea shares her personal experience living with ADHD and chronic pain, including a diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia, and her struggles with various other invisible illnesses like endometriosis. Carrie explains how these challenges impacted her career in medicine and her eventual shift to coaching. She also touches upon the importance of understanding neurodivergence, the impact of chronic pain, and the necessity of a holistic approach to health and wellness. By sharing her story, Dr. Shea aims to validate the experiences of many who face similar issues and provide insight into coping strategies and the importance of seeking support.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kerry Shea
01:23 Carrie's Background and ADHD Diagnosis
02:51 Medical Career and Chronic Pain Journey
03:36 Struggles with Trigeminal Neuralgia and Work Environment
05:40 Navigating the Medical System as a Patient
07:16 Transition to ADHD Coaching
07:45 Early Life and ADHD Awareness
11:21 Chronic Pain and Neurodivergence
16:57 Impact of ADHD on Medical Career
28:34 Decision to Go on Disability
37:11 The Challenges of Medical Specialties
37:45 Physical Demands of OB-GYN
38:12 Advice for Pre-Med and Med Students
38:45 Chronic Pain and Early Symptoms
39:38 Restless Leg Syndrome and ADHD
42:41 Managing Restless Leg Syndrome
48:05 Neurodivergence and Chronic Pain
50:42 The Importance of Good Sleep
58:55 Physician Burnout and Neurodivergence
01:07:49 ADHD Coaching and Support
01:11:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

00:00 A Mysterious Case
00:59 Years of Unexplained Pain
02:19 The Hidden Connection
03:08 The Breakthrough Diagnosis
04:03 Understanding the Science
04:52 Sensory Processing Differences
06:13 ADHD and Pain Regulation
07:24 Amplifying Factors
08:36 Diagnostic Overshadowing
09:52 The Treatment Breakthrough
10:40 Miraculous Results
11:40 Multidisciplinary Approaches
12:07 Community and Support
12:43 Important Disclaimer
13:07 Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Beyond the Pain Scale: Using WPI/SSS and FIQR to Measure Fibromyalgia Severity and Treatment Progress

The script explains that fibromyalgia care often relies too heavily on a 1–10 pain scale, overlooking fatigue, unrefreshed sleep, brain fog, and daily function, which leaves patients feeling unheard and clinicians without clear data. It describes how the American College of Rheumatology shifted from the 1990 tender point exam to revised criteria (2010, refined in 2011 and 2016) using two quick questionnaires: the Fibromyalgia Survey Criteria—Widespread Pain Index (19 pain regions) plus Symptom Severity Score (fatigue, unrefreshed sleep, cognitive symptoms, plus headaches/abdominal pain/depression), combined as the PSD—and the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR), a 21-item measure of function, overall impact, and symptoms scored 0–100. Examples show how these tools provide baselines, track change, guide treatment adjustments, and capture clinically meaningful improvement beyond pain alone.

00:00 Beyond the Pain Scale
01:04 Why Fibro Gets Missed
03:36 Old Criteria to New Tools
04:30 Two Key Questionnaires
05:45 Widespread Pain Index
07:49 Symptom Severity Score
09:35 Diagnosis and Tracking Baseline
10:50 Advocating at Appointments
11:22 FIQR Daily Function
12:59 FIQR Impact and Symptoms
15:51 Meaningful Improvement Benchmarks
16:16 Using Both Tools Together
19:05 Tracking Life Factors Over Time
20:35 Wrap Up and Next Steps

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Sjogren’s vs Fibromyalgia: Key Differences in Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

The script explains why Sjogren’s disease and fibromyalgia are often confused due to overlapping pain and fatigue, noting studies suggesting over 30% overlap, and stresses that accurate diagnosis guides appropriate treatment. Fibromyalgia is described as a central nervous system disorder driven by central sensitization, causing chronic widespread pain for at least three months, profound unrefreshing sleep fatigue, and “fibro fog,” with normal inflammatory and autoimmune labs. Sjogren’s is presented as a systemic autoimmune disease targeting tear and salivary glands, causing measurable dry eyes and dry mouth (sicca), increased dental problems, and possible joint/muscle pain and organ involvement. The script contrasts diagnostic approaches (WPI/symptom severity vs antibodies, Schirmer’s test, salivary flow, and minor salivary gland biopsy) and treatments (exercise/CBT/sleep and neurotransmitter meds vs dryness management, pilocarpine/cevimeline, hydroxychloroquine, and immunosuppressants).

00:00 Invisible Pain Explained
00:49 Why Diagnosis Matters
02:41 Fibromyalgia Basics
03:22 Fibro Symptoms Checklist
04:57 What Fibro Is Not
05:25 Sjogren's Core Signs
07:05 Systemic Sjogren's Pain
08:04 Sjogren's vs Fibro
09:42 Testing and Lab Clues
10:36 How Doctors Diagnose
12:57 Treatment Roadmaps
14:52 Key Takeaways and Advocacy
16:12 Final Encouragement

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Dr. Stephanie Pearson on Workplace Injury, Invisible Disability Claims, and Disability Insurance Pitfalls

Dr. Stephanie Pearson, an OB-GYN, describes how a workplace shoulder injury during a delivery led to chronic pain, failed surgery outcomes, job termination after FMLA, and denial of her hospital disability coverage due to a fine-print work-injury exclusion, followed by a disputed workers’ comp claim and a settlement after litigation. She explains how invisible or subjective conditions (e.g., chronic pain, fibromyalgia, headaches) are often doubted by clinicians and challenged by insurers, why “gray” cases face scrutiny, and how documentation of worst-day functional limits and timely medical-record collection are critical, including possible IMEs. Pearson contrasts employer group vs private disability insurance, highlighting taxable group benefits, benefit caps, portability issues, and common two-year limitations for subjective illnesses, while private policies depend on underwriting, exclusions, and participation limits. She also discusses underwriting impacts of medical coding, runs a physician peer support group, and shares personal recovery supports and her company’s client advocacy approach.

00:00 Meet Dr Pearson
01:23 Injury In Delivery Room
02:25 Surgery And Termination
03:03 Denied And Sued
04:11 Mental Health Crisis
05:54 New Purpose And Company
06:40 Invisible Illness Bias
09:05 Building A Paper Trail
12:59 Independent Medical Exams
16:33 Group Versus Private Coverage
19:25 Subjective Illness Limits
23:12 Underwriting Exclusions
24:28 Fibromyalgia Stigma
25:15 Contracts And Legal Review
25:44 Coverage Limits Explained
28:44 Underwriting and Intake Process
29:54 Medical History Surprises
32:10 No Underwriting Options
33:32 Psych Diagnosis Pitfalls
36:26 Staying Properly Insured
38:44 Claims Support and Follow Up
39:49 Group Plans and Portability
42:15 Physicians Support Community
45:17 Family Silver Linings
46:59 Closing Reflections and Contact

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Small Fiber Neuropathy and Fibromyalgia: Correlation, Not the Cause

The script examines why findings of small fiber neuropathy (SFN) in fibromyalgia created hope for an objective “proof” of pain, yet argues this link is often misinterpreted as causation. It explains SFN, diagnosed via skin punch biopsy showing reduced nerve fiber density, and notes studies finding positive biopsies in about 40–60% of fibromyalgia patients, including a 2018 meta-analysis reporting 49% prevalence. The script outlines why SFN is not a smoking-gun cause: it appears in only about half of patients, nerve loss severity doesn’t reliably match pain severity, and SFN occurs in other conditions. It contrasts fibromyalgia with classic SFN in onset age, symptom patterns, comorbidities, and nerve-loss distribution, and presents central sensitization (nociplastic pain) as the primary driver, with SFN possibly a trigger in some or a downstream effect in others, emphasizing treatments targeting the central nervous system.

00:00 SFN Fibro Controversy
01:54 What Is SFN
02:57 Biopsy Evidence Buzz
04:04 Correlation Not Cause
05:54 SFN vs Fibro Differences
07:30 Central Sensitization Explained
10:12 Where SFN Fits In
11:10 Back Pain MRI Analogy
11:56 Treatment Focus And Wrap

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

High-Masking Autism, Anxiety, and the Multi-System Pattern of Chronic Invisible Illness

Dr. Michael Lenz reacts to Auticate's video on autistic health and connects it to fibromyalgia-like “multi-system” chronic invisible illness, describing 11 doctors in a year before an autism diagnosis and a pattern of persistent symptoms despite normal tests. The script reviews common co-occurring issues in autistic people: skin burning/itching and psoriasis, GI problems (GERD, bloating, diarrhea), chronic cough with inconclusive lung workups, urinary frequency/nocturia, insomnia and restless legs/periodic limb movement disorder, widespread muscle tension and pain consistent with fibromyalgia flares after meltdowns, migraines, immune/allergy conditions (including mast cell issues), possible POTS/dysautonomia, and frequent mental health misdiagnoses and medication side effects. It argues a major culprit is chronic anxiety/fight-or-flight from high masking, and explains why medical care is hard for autistic people (waiting, sensory overload, communication, dismissal). It offers self-advocacy tips (lists, disclosure, processing time, bring support) and calls for more integrated, autism-informed healthcare.

00:00 Reacting 
00:29 The Multisystem Pattern
02:24 Skin Symptoms Explained
03:41 Gut Issues and Reflux
04:57 Chronic Cough Mystery
06:25 Urinary Frequency and Pain
07:42 Sleep Problems and RLS
09:56 Muscle Pain and Flares
11:11 Migraines and Sensory Overload
12:53 Immune Issues and POTS
14:18 Misdiagnoses and Masking
15:32 The Culprit Anxiety Loop
17:54 Why Doctor Visits Are Hard
22:30 Self Advocacy Doctor Tips
27:34 Wrap Up and Call to Share

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Three Blood Tests That Reveal Your True Heart Attack Risk: hsCRP, Lipoprotein(a), and ApoB

Dr. Michael Lenz argues the standard lipid panel can miss key drivers of atherosclerosis, explaining why some people with “normal” LDL still have heart attacks, and recommends three additional blood tests to better assess risk. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) measures inflammation, with higher levels indicating increased risk and supported by the JUPITER trial showing benefit of statins in people with normal LDL but elevated hsCRP. Lipoprotein(a) is a largely genetic, “extra dangerous” LDL-related particle linked causally to heart attacks, strokes, and aortic valve disease; a one-time adult test is recommended, especially with early family history, and high levels warrant aggressive control of other risk factors while targeted therapies are in trials. ApoB counts atherogenic particles and may predict risk better than LDL, particularly with insulin resistance or diabetes.

00:00 Hidden Heart Attack Risk
01:53 Inflammation Fire Alarm
03:06 hsCRP Risk Levels
04:21 Lipoprotein A Genetics
06:08 What to Do If High
06:59 ApoB Particle Count
08:27 ApoB Targets and Discordance
09:23 Putting the Three Together
10:17 Final Takeaways and Next Steps

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Chronic Illness, Hidden Heart Risk, and the Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score

Dr. Michael Lenz, a clinical lipidologist, explains that chronic illnesses involving pain, inflammation, or central sensitization (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia) can silently increase long-term risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death—sometimes doubling or tripling risk—through systemic inflammation, stress-hormone-driven autonomic strain, and associated factors like obesity, tobacco/substance use, and inflammatory diets. He argues standard LDL-based risk calculators can miss this “invisible” danger and discusses advanced assessment, focusing on the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score: a brief, non-contrast CT scan that measures calcified plaque as proof of coronary disease. Citing the MESA study, he describes the predictive value of CAC, including “power of zero,” outlines score ranges and implications, notes limitations such as soft plaque, and urges viewers to discuss CAC, statins, lifestyle, and additional blood tests with their doctor.

00:00 Chronic Illness Hidden Heart Risk
02:10 Invisible Threat Explained
03:50 UK Biobank Wake Up Call
04:11 How Damage Builds Up
06:20 Why Standard Tests Miss It
08:21 CAC Scan That Changes Everything
10:13 MESA Study Power of Zero
12:32 Understanding Your CAC Score
17:04 Treatment and Lifestyle Battle Plan
18:51 Take Back Control Closing

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Fibromyalgia and the Hidden Sleep Disorder Fueling Your Pain: How Restorative Sleep Breaks the Vicious Cycle

The script explains fibromyalgia as a real central nervous system disorder marked by widespread pain, crushing fatigue, and “fibro fog,” driven by central sensitization and neurochemical imbalance (elevated substance P/glutamate and reduced inhibitory neurotransmitters). It argues that non-restorative sleep is a core driver of symptoms, highlighting Moldofsky’s findings of the alpha-delta sleep anomaly in which wake-like alpha waves intrude into deep slow-wave sleep, preventing tissue repair and pain regulation. Fragmented sleep also impairs diffuse noxious inhibitory controls (DNIC), worsening hyperalgesia and allodynia; experimental sleep disruption in healthy volunteers can induce fibromyalgia-like tenderness, and diary studies show poor sleep predicts next-day pain more than pain predicts sleep. Solutions emphasize prioritizing deep sleep via CBT-I, paced gentle movement (especially aquatic), mind-body practices, warm baths, screening/treating sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome, and clinician-guided options such as low-dose tricyclics/cyclobenzaprine (including FDA-approved Tonmya in 2025), gabapentinoids, and melatonin while avoiding benzodiazepines.

00:00 Pain and Fatigue Cycle
01:17 Central Sensitization Explained
02:32 Fibromyalgia Symptom Breakdown
04:25 Neurochemistry Behind Pain
06:01 Non Restorative Sleep Mystery
07:16 Alpha Delta Sleep Anomaly
09:44 How Bad Sleep Creates Pain
13:02 Sleep as the Main Lever
15:05 Lifestyle Sleep Fixes
18:15 Check Other Sleep Disorders
19:04 Medication Support Options
20:45 Take Action and Advocate
21:56 Final Hopeful Wrap Up

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Making the Invisible Visible: A Longitudinal, Validating Framework for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Illness Care

The script contrasts patients’ experiences of chronic pain, fatigue, and brain fog being dismissed despite normal tests with clinicians’ uncertainty in brief, system-pressured visits, framing “medical gaslighting” as a patient safety issue. It proposes rewriting the clinical approach to invisible illnesses like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, migraines, and IBS by starting with deep listening, validating symptoms, and using standardized tools (Widespread Pain Index, Symptom Severity Score, Fibro Score Index, and Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire Revised) to confirm diagnosis, set baselines, and track change over time like an A1C. It emphasizes longitudinal mapping of symptoms across the lifespan, including early nervous system sensitivity, neurodivergence, hormonal transitions, and cumulative stress, plus screening for ADHD, autism traits, and sleep disorders. The framework includes pacing with activity tracking, trauma-informed care, careful documentation, flexible follow-up, coordinated care, and transparent uncertainty paired with belief and hope.

00:00 Invisible Illness Reality
00:39 Clinician Perspective Pressure
01:10 Why Medicine Fails Here
01:49 Rewriting the Care Script
02:11 Start With Listening
02:41 Measure And Baseline
03:47 Build The Life Timeline
05:50 Hormones And Stress Load
07:05 Track Progress Over Time
08:10 Pacing And Hidden Comorbidities
09:22 The Gaslighting System Trap
10:11 What Better Care Looks Like
11:30 Hope And Closing Call

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Why I Don’t Recommend AG1: A Cheaper, Higher-Fiber Whole-Food Smoothie Alternative

Doctor Michael Lenz critiques AG1/greens powders as expensive, marketing-driven products ($79 for 30 servings) that rely on proprietary blends with unclear dosing, may reduce benefits compared with whole-food “food matrix” nutrition, and provide too little fiber (2 g per scoop). He argues real health comes from a whole-food, plant-based diet that can reduce inflammation and risk of chronic diseases, and offers a daily smoothie formula as a transparent, affordable alternative: water, two cups leafy greens, one cup broccoli sprouts (sulforaphane/NRF2), frozen berries and bananas (polyphenols, potassium), turmeric plus black pepper (curcumin + piperine), flax or chia (fiber/omega-3s), and lemon. He advises gradually increasing fiber to avoid GI distress, compares the smoothie (15–20 g fiber) plus overnight oats breakfast (~40 g fiber) to a common high-calorie, high-saturated-fat, low-fiber American breakfast, and urges viewers to save money and try whole foods for a week.

00:00 Why I Skip AG1
00:43 Marketing vs Reality
01:27 Three Big Problems
01:47 Proprietary Blend Trap
02:55 Whole Foods Absorption
03:37 The Fiber Dealbreaker
04:23 Real Food Solution
05:20 Anti Inflammatory Smoothie
05:29 Smoothie Ingredient Formula
05:56 Sprouts and Sulforaphane
06:31 Berries Bananas Turmeric
08:16 Fiber Ramp Up Warning
09:35 Cost and Fiber Comparison
10:49 Breakfast vs American Meal
12:24 Final Takeaways and Challenge

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Internal Tremors and Fibromyalgia: The Science Behind Invisible Vibrations

The script explains internal tremors (internal vibrations) as a subjective sensation of shaking or buzzing inside the body with little to no visible movement, often felt at rest and sometimes alongside fasciculations, myoclonic jerks, restless leg syndrome, or periodic limb movement disorder. It addresses fear of serious neurologic disease and emphasizes seeing a doctor to rule out causes like thyroid issues, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and ALS, while noting these often present differently with visible tremors. The video links internal tremors to central sensitization and altered interoception, describing fibromyalgia as a central sensitization syndrome where amplified nervous system signals are hard for the brain to categorize. Suggested strategies include medical evaluation, addressing co-occurring issues and possible medications, checking B12, tracking triggers like dehydration or blood sugar dips, nutrition emphasizing whole plant foods and less saturated fat, CBT, mindfulness and slow breathing, gentle movement, weighted blankets, pacing, and finding support communities, while noting ongoing research and emerging tools.

00:00 Invisible Internal Vibrations
01:09 What Internal Tremors Are
03:10 Why It Feels So Scary
03:44 Rule Out Serious Causes
04:59 Nervous System Explanation
05:18 Central Sensitization Basics
06:06 Interoception and Buzzing
07:29 Fibromyalgia Connection
08:19 Calming Tremors Toolkit
08:41 Doctor and Holistic Workup
09:42 Nutrition and Triggers
10:13 Stress Regulation Practices
10:54 Gentle Movement and Grounding
11:27 Pacing to Prevent Flares
11:57 Community Support and Hope
13:29 Wrap Up and Share Story

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Gabapentin and Pregabalin Explained: Calming an Overactive Nervous System in Pain, RLS, Fibromyalgia, and Sleep

The script explains gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) as neuromodulators that “turn down” an overexcited central nervous system seen in central sensitization/nociplastic pain syndromes, helping conditions such as neuropathic pain, restless leg syndrome (RLS), fibromyalgia, anxiety, and sleep disruption. It clarifies they don’t act on GABA receptors; instead they bind the alpha-2-delta-1 subunit on calcium channels, reducing calcium influx and release of excitatory neurotransmitters (glutamate, substance P, norepinephrine), lowering pain, restlessness, and anxiety. The script highlights guideline shifts making gabapentinoids first-line for chronic RLS due to minimal augmentation risk versus dopamine agonists, notes pregabalin’s FDA approval for fibromyalgia (gabapentin used off-label), and emphasizes improved slow-wave sleep and restorative recovery. Practical guidance includes nighttime dosing, “start low and go slow” titration, side effects, off-label use, and the need for doctor supervision.

00:00 Nervous System Overdrive
01:41 Central Sensitization Explained
03:52 What Are Gabapentinoids
05:45 How They Work in Brain
08:14 Restless Leg Syndrome Shift
10:14 Fibromyalgia and FDA Approval
12:05 Deep Sleep Healing Boost
14:55 Nighttime Dosing Strategy
17:04 Side Effects and Titration
20:59 Off Label Uses and Kids
22:49 Analogies and Key Takeaways
24:51 Final Summary and Disclaimer

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Adult Autism and Masking: Why Diagnosis Matters and How to Recognize What’s Beneath the Surface

Dr. Michael Lenz interviews clinical psychologist Donna Henderson, co-author with Sarah Wayland and Jamel White of “Is This Autism? A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else” and a companion diagnostic guide, about why autism in adults is often missed, especially in people who camouflage. Henderson describes realizing autism in a client with many prior diagnoses and how the field’s training focused on stereotyped, observable behaviors rather than internal experience. They discuss how diagnosis can support self-understanding, self-advocacy, and self-compassion; the difference between social motivation and social energy; why autism in girls often becomes evident around middle school; and how neurocrash, burnout, sensory overload, and misinterpretations of affect can lead to dismissal in healthcare. Henderson argues for clinician education, careful interviewing over test scores, broader access to diagnosis, and considering autism before personality disorder labels.

00:00 Late Autism Discovery
00:27 Meet The Expert
02:40 From Training To Insight
06:42 Why Diagnosis Matters
11:17 Beyond Observable Traits
16:07 Social Energy Vs Interest
20:11 Girls And Middle School Shift
24:43 State Of Autism Today
30:18 Clinicians Need Training
37:45 Misdiagnosed As Personality
39:37 Hoarding And Pink Flags
41:57 Strengths And Sensory Overload
44:39 Strengths Need Context
45:37 Medical Care and Misread Signals
47:35 Pain Expression and Masking
50:35 Social Mislabels and Directness
53:07 Neurocrash vs Burnout
57:42 Reframing Kids and Parenting
01:02:19 Cross Neurotype Communication
01:06:22 Late Diagnosis Emotions
01:09:58 Books Webinars and Finding Care
01:17:18 Encouragement and Closing Reflections

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Walk and Talk in Austin: Activity, Weather, and Fibromyalgia Insights

Dr. Michael Lenz records a walk along the Lady Bird Lake trail in Austin, Texas, including views of downtown and the Congress Avenue “bat bridge,” explaining how bats congregate there in summer but are gone by mid-November. He reflects on staying active with chronic pain and fibromyalgia, noting many patients were previously very active and may grieve lost abilities, and recommends starting low and gradually increasing movement. He discusses how weather affects symptoms, with many doing better in warm summers and worse in dark winters, while others struggle more in heat due to dysautonomia, temperature regulation issues, POTS, or autism; he shares a patient who felt significantly better while hiking in Central America. He notes nature and activities like kayaking can reduce perceived pain and closes with channel and podcast information and his medical background.

00:00 Walk and Talk Intro
00:33 Austin Bat Bridge
01:55 Staying Active With Fibromyalgia
04:47 Weather and Symptom Flares
07:24 Music or Silence on Walks
10:09 Colorado River and Lady Bird Lake
11:59 Nature Therapy and Kayaking
12:48 Downtown Views and Trail Life
13:57 Wrap Up and About Dr Lenz

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Cohort Study Links ADHD to Earlier and More Severe Perimenopausal Symptoms

The episode reviews a population-based cohort study using the Icelandic SAGA cohort (women aged 35–55; n=5,392) examining perimenopausal symptom severity in women with versus without self-reported ADHD (9.9%). Using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale v1.1, and PHQ-15, researchers found higher overall perimenopausal symptom burden in women with ADHD (mean MRS 18 vs 13) across psychological, somatic, and urogenital domains, and higher prevalence of severe symptoms (overall PR 1.8; somatic PR 2.2; psychological PR 1.63; urogenital PR 1.57) plus severe general symptoms (PR 1.94). Symptoms peaked earlier in ADHD (ages 35–39 vs 45–49), suggesting onset up to 10 years earlier. Adjustments for sociodemographics, smoking, binge drinking, and PTSD (more common in ADHD) did not remove associations. Limitations include cross-sectional measures, self-reported ADHD, symptom overlap, and lack of treatment data; the script calls for tailored guidelines for perimenopausal women with ADHD.

00:00 ADHD Meets Perimenopause
00:23 Study Purpose And Rationale
01:16 Cohort And Measurement Tools
02:33 Menopause Rating Scale Breakdown
03:17 Overall Symptom Burden Results
04:11 Severe Symptoms And Ratios
05:26 Earlier Onset By Age
06:23 Confounders And PTSD Analysis
07:38 Clinical Takeaways And Guidance
08:39 Limitations And Future Research
10:00 Wrap Up And Call To Action

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Trigeminal Neuralgia Beyond Nerve Pain: Marsha’s Racing, Menopause, and Advocacy Story

The episode explores trigeminal neuralgia as more complex than a simple nerve injury, often overlapping with nociplastic chronic pain features like widespread pain, fatigue, insomnia, and brain fog. Marsha, a longtime off-road racer, recounts an eight-year path to diagnosis after severe electric-shock facial and scalp pain, repeated ER visits, normal imaging, and feeling dismissed as drug-seeking. She describes TN as “torture,” worse than childbirth, and details treatments including carbamazepine, gabapentin, nerve blocks, and gamma knife, which provided about a year of relief but left facial numbness and corneal damage with vision loss. She also has Sjögren’s syndrome, concussion history, anxiety/depression, and discusses perimenopause/menopause timing, hormone therapy trials, and possible ADHD. Racing helps her cope mentally, though symptoms worsen after removing her helmet, and she emphasizes support groups, self-advocacy, and not giving up.

00:00 Trigeminal Neuralgia Beyond Nerves
05:05 Marsha’s First Symptoms
07:26 ER Visits and Misdiagnosis
08:35 Finally Getting a Diagnosis
09:38 Becoming an Advocate
13:49 What TN Feels Like
15:58 Neuropathic vs Nociplastic Pain
17:14 Treatments and Gamma Knife
23:13 Concussions and Early Clues
28:14 Hormones Menopause Connection
36:38 Racing as Therapy
39:23 Daily Management and Race Day Routine
41:42 Racing as Flow State
44:29 Adrenaline and Desert Races
46:46 TN Community and Daily Struggles
48:37 Fatigue Meds and Survival
52:13 Living Without a Cure
55:02 Faith and Being There
56:38 High School Trauma and Isolation
57:28 Neurodivergence ADHD and Pain
01:07:55 Hormones Menopause and Treatment
01:16:22 Final Encouragement and Contact

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Should You Accept a Fibromyalgia Diagnosis? Evidence-Based Response to “Don’t Accept Fibro” Claims

Dr. Michael Lenz reacts to a naturopath’s claim that fibromyalgia is “not an acceptable diagnosis,” acknowledging that patients often feel invisible and that fibromyalgia is diagnosed by symptoms after ruling out other conditions, but arguing this does not make it illegitimate. He explains fibromyalgia as a nociplastic/central sensitization pain syndrome supported by evidence such as amplified pain signaling on functional neuroimaging, disrupted deep sleep, neurotransmitter differences, and overlap with conditions like IBS, chronic fatigue, migraines, and TMJ. He critiques functional-medicine claims that fibro is primarily due to mold toxicity, food sensitivities, adrenal fatigue, leaky gut, or mitochondrial dysfunction, noting limited or debunked evidence and potential harm from chasing costly “root causes.” He outlines evidence-based, multimodal management: restorative sleep, gentle aerobic exercise and pacing, CBT/pain reprocessing and neuroscience education, addressing ADHD/autism/anxiety, and medications such as SNRIs and gabapentinoids.

00:00 Why This Reaction
01:04 Naturopath Claim Setup
02:07 Invisible Illness Explained
03:12 What She Gets Right
07:31 Why Rejecting Is Harmful
07:49 Real Science Of Fibro
08:39 Functional Triggers List
09:04 Gut Microbiome Claims
13:39 Debunking Pseudodiagnoses
15:05 Evidence Based Treatment Plan
17:46 Should You Accept Diagnosis
18:50 Closing Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Dr. Iris Manor on ADHD, Trauma, PTSD, and Resilience: Risks, Mechanisms, and Treatment

The host interviews Dr. Iris Manor, a child and adolescent psychiatrist and ADHD researcher, about links between ADHD and traumatic stress disorders, including a Denmark study finding children with ADHD are about 11 times more likely to develop PTSD. Manor distinguishes trauma exposure from traumatic stress disorders and describes behavioral risk (novelty-seeking, impulsivity) and shared neurobiology (hippocampus/ventromedial prefrontal networks, inflammatory cytokines), including possible transgenerational effects of maternal trauma. She argues ADHD and traumatic stress are usually separate but interacting diagnoses, and emphasizes resilience through structure, goals, and avoiding helplessness, noting ADHD makes these harder. She warns clinicians often stop stimulants after trauma despite potential benefit, recommends treating ADHD (and parents’ ADHD), and highlights emotional dysregulation requiring treatment (often guanfacine) to enable ADHD and trauma care. The discussion also covers overlap with chronic pain/fibromyalgia and long COVID, autism-related vulnerability, and disagreement with claims that ADHD is primarily caused by trauma.

00:00 Trauma and ADHD Link
03:11 Why Risk Is Higher
04:02 Biology and Inflammation
08:04 Which Comes First
09:49 Types of Trauma Examples
11:52 National Trauma Risk Groups
15:14 Covid and Chronic Pain
20:42 Resilience Rules and Structure
22:20 Treat ADHD During Trauma
26:39 Family Screening and Care
31:12 ADHD Impact on PTSD Treatment
33:33 Emotional Dysregulation Hierarchy
35:51 Guanfacine for Dysregulation
38:36 Autism Risk and Safety
40:13 Therapy Can Backfire
41:29 Why Trauma Sticks
44:07 Mental Fatigue and ADHD
47:22 Does Trauma Cause ADHD
49:24 Neurodiversity and Impairment
53:25 Treat ADHD Like Medicine
57:41 Complex Pain Case Discussion
01:02:30 Fibro Screening Tools
01:04:53 Next Steps and Wrap Up

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Abdominal Migraines, Weather, and Early Fibromyalgia Clues: Pediatric Case and Listener Feedback

The episode shares insights on fibromyalgia-related problems with a focus on the role of weather and activity in flareups and how symptoms can begin years before an adult fibromyalgia diagnosis. A pediatric case is presented of a 10-year-old boy with intermittent severe upper abdominal pain lasting hours to a day, nausea without vomiting, reduced appetite, and mild to moderate headaches, with no red-flag symptoms (no fever, diarrhea, bloody stools, weight loss, rash, bruising/petechiae, or joint swelling) and a normal physical exam. Family history includes migraines (maternal aunt), fibromyalgia (maternal grandmother), and restless leg/growing pains (father). The diagnosis is abdominal migraines, and the discussion emphasizes treatment approaches including restoring consistent exercise (noting a drop in activity during winter after basketball season), improving sleep regularity, considering coexisting restless leg syndrome and iron deficiency, maintaining a healthy diet, and screening for stressors and untreated ADHD. The episode also discusses how colder weather and shorter days can reduce activity and contribute to symptom worsening, and recommends tracking steps and adapting with indoor activity or appropriate clothing; it notes that extreme cold or heat can trigger fibromyalgia pain flares. Listener feedback includes praise for a five-part ADHD series with Dr. Dodson and a question about finding fibromyalgia care in Tampa, Florida, with guidance to start with primary care and noting rheumatologists often diagnose fibromyalgia after ruling out inflammatory disease.

00:00 Episode Overview
00:37 Pediatric Case Setup
01:54 Key History Questions
04:43 What Changed This Winter
06:42 Exam Findings
07:45 Diagnosis Abdominal Migraine
08:31 Treatment Basics
10:19 Weather Exercise Connection
14:56 Fibromyalgia Early Clues
15:49 Listener Feedback Q&A
16:42 Finding Fibro Care
17:53 Wrap Up and Goodbye

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The Hidden Fibromyalgia Epidemic: How Bias Leaves Millions Undiagnosed—and How AI Can Help

The script explains fibromyalgia as a chronic, long-term condition marked by widespread pain, profound fatigue, cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog”), and related mood issues, affecting an estimated 2–4% of the U.S. population (7–14 million) but potentially far more due to underdiagnosis. It describes how the condition is often missed because it is “invisible,” lacks definitive objective tests, and commonly leaves patients in diagnostic limbo for about five years while being dismissed as stressed, depressed, or imagining symptoms. Although the 2016 American College of Rheumatology criteria rely on the Widespread Pain Index and Symptom Severity Score, the script argues diagnosis often fails at the moment clinicians don’t suspect fibromyalgia—driven by longstanding gender and age stereotypes that frame it as a middle-aged women’s disease. It highlights research showing that unbiased application of criteria yields a much closer gender split (about 59% female, 41% male), and that many more men report symptoms than receive diagnoses. The script centers on a study of over 21,000 pain-clinic patients who completed tablet questionnaires with a digital body map; an AI clustered pain patterns into nine groups and identified a “widespread heavy” cluster strongly associated with fibromyalgia, where patients were nearly 30 times more likely to have a fibromyalgia diagnosis than those with low back pain. Yet more than two thirds of patients flagged by the AI lacked a clinical fibromyalgia diagnosis; an objective “informatics proxy” applying the formal criteria found 66.3% of the widespread-heavy cluster met diagnostic criteria, while only 22.4% were diagnosed. The missed patients were more likely to be male and older, demonstrating diagnostic bias. Extrapolating from these findings, the script suggests the true U.S. population meeting criteria could be 21–42 million. It proposes integrating digital body maps and machine-learning alerts into clinic workflows to prompt unbiased evaluation, while emphasizing existing tools already work if applied. The script also frames fibromyalgia as nociplastic pain (central nervous system hypersensitivity), warning that procedures aimed at tissue damage (injections, nerve blocks, surgery) often don’t help and may worsen outcomes, and pointing instead to medications, graded exercise, and cognitive behavioral therapies. It concludes with advice to recognize widespread pain as a key signal, challenge bias (especially for men and older adults) by requesting review of ACR criteria, advocate for better screening, and invites viewers to share experiences, like, subscribe, and enable notifications.

00:00 The Hidden Pain: Why So Many Suffer Without a Name
01:53 Fibromyalgia 101: What It Is and How It Feels
03:37 The Invisible Illness: Stigma, No Tests, and Years in Diagnostic Limbo
04:42 Why Diagnosis Fails: Criteria vs. Bias in the Exam Room
05:46 Gender & Age Bias Exposed: The Men and Older Adults Being Missed
08:10 AI Steps In: Digital Body Maps and the ‘Widespread Heavy’ Cluster
10:53 The Shocking Gap: Two-Thirds Flagged by AI Had No Diagnosis
13:52 What This Changes: Better Screening, Nociplastic Pain, and Real Treatment Paths
16:52 Takeaways & Advocacy: How to Get Taken Seriously (and What to Ask)
18:17 Closing: Share Your Story and Help Bring This Epidemic Into the Light

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

5 Lesser-Known Symptoms of Fibromyalgia: Understanding the Hidden Clues

This episode addresses the frustration of constantly feeling pain and fatigue despite normal medical tests and discusses fibromyalgia as a possible cause. It highlights five often-missed symptoms of fibromyalgia: extreme skin sensitivity (allodynia), non-cardiac chest pain (costochondritis), vision problems and sensory overload, pelvic and bladder issues (similar to interstitial cystitis), and widespread burning, tingling, or numbness (paresthesia). The goal is to provide viewers with information and validation to facilitate better conversations with their doctors, helping them feel more in control of their health. The episode emphasizes that fibromyalgia symptoms are real and offers hope for a path forward.

00:00 Introduction: The Frustration of Unexplained Pain
00:24 The Mystery of Fibromyalgia
01:11 Symptom 1: Extreme Skin Sensitivity (Allodynia)
02:49 Symptom 2: Non-Cardiac Chest Pain (Costochondritis)
05:17 Symptom 3: Vision Problems and Sensory Overload
07:11 Symptom 4: Pelvic and Bladder Issues
09:10 Symptom 5: Widespread Burning, Numbness, and Tingling
11:05 Conclusion: Empowering Your Health Journey

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Debunking Myths About Fibromyalgia Diagnosis: A Doctor's Reaction to Naturopathic Claims

Dr. Michael Lenz reacts to a naturopath's controversial statements about fibromyalgia diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medicine. He discusses the legitimacy of fibromyalgia as a real condition characterized by altered pain processing in the central nervous system. Dr. Lenz debunks myths about root causes like mold toxicity, food sensitivities, adrenal fatigue, and mitochondrial dysfunction, advocating for a holistic, science-based approach to managing these chronic invisible illnesses, also known as nociplastic pain syndromes, which fibromyalgia epitomizes.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Story
01:04 Controversy Around Fibromyalgia Diagnosis
01:56 Understanding Fibromyalgia: Symptoms and Diagnosis
03:12 Challenges with Fibromyalgia Diagnosis
04:58 Functional Medicine Perspective
13:39 Debunking Functional Medicine Claims
15:07 Evidence-Based Solutions for Fibromyalgia
18:50 Conclusion and Call to Action

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Understanding Fibromyalgia Flares Through Motion Sickness in Autism and ADHD

Join Dr. Michael Lenz as he explores the connection between motion sickness and fibromyalgia flares, particularly in individuals with autism and ADHD. Discover how sensory processing differences and predictive coding play a role in chronic pain and stress responses. Learn practical strategies for reducing unpredictability and supporting neurodivergent individuals living with fibromyalgia and other pain syndromes. Like, subscribe, and share for more science-based insights into chronic pain and neurodiversity.

00:00 Introduction: Motion Sickness and Fibromyalgia
00:37 Understanding Motion Sickness
01:32 Neurodivergence and Sensory Processing
02:09 Fibromyalgia and Sensory Mismatch
03:25 Managing Life with Neurodivergence
03:52 Compassionate Interventions
04:14 Conclusion: Insights and Support

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Exploring ADHD and Perimenopausal Symptoms: Insights from a Recent Study

In this episode, we examine the intersection of ADHD and perimenopausal symptoms using a recent cohort study from Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands. The study aimed to fill a knowledge gap about the impact of perimenopause on women with ADHD. Findings indicated that women with ADHD experience more severe and earlier onset perimenopausal symptoms compared to women without ADHD. The discussion highlights major findings, methodology, potential confounding factors, and the implications for healthcare professionals and women with ADHD. Tune in for a comprehensive look at this significant research!

Watch on YouTube Here

00:00 Introduction to the Study
00:23 Research Goals and Hypotheses
01:16 Study Methodology
03:17 Key Findings on Symptom Burden
05:26 Age and Timing of Symptoms
06:23 Contributing Factors and Comorbidities
07:38 Implications for Healthcare
08:39 Study Limitations and Future Research
10:00 Conclusion and Call to Action

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Unveiling the Truth: CBD, Marijuana and Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain - Groundbreaking Research Findings

Join us in this episode as we welcome Marianne Rasmussen, a health scientist with extensive experience in fibromyalgia research, to discuss a pivotal study on the efficacy of CBD in treating fibromyalgia. Marianne shares her journey from a registered nurse to a PhD researcher, her passion for fibromyalgia patients, and the surprising results of her rigorous trial. Despite high hopes, the study revealed no significant benefits of CBD over placebo for pain, quality of life, or functional ability. We delve into the recruitment process, the importance of patient care, and the broader implications of these findings. This enlightening conversation sheds light on the complex world of fibromyalgia treatment and the power of compassionate healthcare. Don't miss this deep dive into cutting-edge research and its impact on patient care.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:36 Guest Background and Experience
02:27 Motivation Behind the Study
03:59 Study Design and Methodology
06:21 Key Findings and Surprising Results
08:14 Patient Recruitment and Randomization
11:24 Treatment Details and Side Effects
16:36 Placebo Effect and Patient Care
24:27 Broader Implications and Recommendations
31:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Understanding the Link Between ADHD and Trauma with Dr. Iris Manor

Join us as we explore the intricate connections between ADHD, PTSD, and trauma with Dr. Iris Manor, a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist and director of the lifespan ADHD clinic at Gaha Mental Health Clinic. In this in-depth discussion, Dr. Manor sheds light on why individuals with ADHD are more prone to developing traumatic stress disorders and PTSD, backed by research and case studies. We delve into the biological, behavioral, and environmental factors contributing to these conditions, as well as the essential treatment and management strategies. Dr. Manor also emphasizes the importance of treating ADHD to mitigate the impact of trauma and provides valuable insights into the role of family dynamics in recovery. Whether you're a clinician, a parent, or someone living with ADHD and trauma, this episode offers vital information and practical advice.

Watch on YouTube Here

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Special Guest
01:19 Understanding the Link Between ADHD and Trauma
03:20 Behavioral and Biological Explanations
05:22 Genetic and Environmental Factors
07:53 Impact of Trauma on ADHD
14:16 COVID-19 as a Trauma and Its Effects
19:23 Treatment and Resilience Strategies
26:05 Positive Magic Circle for PTSD and ADHD
26:31 Screening Parents for ADHD and PTSD
26:49 Diagnosing and Treating Families
29:22 Challenges in Treating ADHD and PTSD
31:36 Emotional Dysregulation and ADHD
33:48 Medications for Emotional Dysregulation
36:23 Autism, ADHD, and Trauma
39:07 The Impact of Trauma on ADHD
44:48 ADHD Awareness and Treatment
50:45 Final Thoughts and Advice for Clinicians

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The Princess and the Pea: A Tale of Sensitivity and Neurodivergence

Explore the timeless fairytale of 'The Princess and the Pea' through the lens of modern science and neurodivergence. This video reinterprets the story as an early description of heightened sensitivity, similar to conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic pain, ADHD, and autism. Learn about nociplastic pain and how it parallels the experience of those with hypersensitive nervous systems. Discover the importance of empathy and validation in addressing chronic pain and neurodivergence, and join the conversation by subscribing to the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast for more insightful stories.

Watch on Youtube Here

00:00 The Prince's Quest for a Real Princess
00:20 The Princess and the Pea Test
00:56 A Deeper Meaning: Sensitivity and Neurodivergence
01:20 Understanding Nociplastic Pain
01:54 The Struggles of Hypersensitivity
02:16 Sensory Processing in Autism
02:59 The Princess's Restless Night
03:35 Lessons in Compassion and Validation
04:42 Honoring Sensitivity with Empathy and Science
04:47 Subscribe for More Insights

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this enlightening episode, we welcome special guest Luke Thompson, who has a diverse background as a philosophy professor, pastor, author, and theology professor. Luke shares his insights on existential questions, particularly focusing on how different worldviews interpret pain and suffering. He delves into the perspectives of renowned philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, contrasting them with Christian viewpoints, especially those of St. Augustine and the biblical book Ecclesiastes. Through an engaging dialogue, Luke discusses the significance of having a meta-narrative and the implications of living with or without transcendent meaning. This conversation promises to provide profound reflections for anyone grappling with chronic pain, existential questions, or the search for purpose in life.

With on YouTube Here

00:00 Introduction to Our Special Guest: Luke Thompson
00:42 Understanding Fibromyalgia: A Chronic Pain Condition
01:26 Exploring Different Spiritual Paradigms
01:47 Existence vs. Essence: Sartre and Augustine
05:15 The Meaning of Pain and Suffering
07:54 The Concept of Metanarrative
12:57 Solomon's Wisdom: Everything is Meaningless
17:37 Nietzsche's Madman Parable: God is Dead
22:59 Short-Term vs. Cosmic Meaning
28:47 The Source of Human Value
30:17 The Role of Curiosity in Science
32:45 Understanding Pain and Suffering
35:24 Finding Meaning in Life's Pleasures
38:21 The Christian Metanarrative
47:08 The Importance of a Metanarrative
50:36 The Impact of Losing a Metanarrative
55:03 The Deeper Why Questions
01:00:13 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The Science Behind Music's Power to Relieve Chronic Pain

Feeling trapped by chronic pain and dependent on pills? Discover how music can rewire your nervous system and alleviate pain, anxiety, and depression. Join Dr. Michael Lenz as he delves into robust scientific evidence—from randomized controlled trials to systemic reviews—that highlight music's efficacy in treating chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia. Learn how self-chosen music, through mechanisms involving neurochemicals like beta endorphin and oxytocin, can act as your brain’s natural pharmacy. Dr. Lenz provides practical takeaways on harnessing the power of music to activate your body's internal pain relief systems, reduce stress hormones, and improve emotional well-being.

Watch on YouTube Here

00:00 Introduction: Music as Medicine
01:20 Scientific Evidence: Music's Impact on Pain
03:31 Mechanisms of Music-Induced Analgesia
04:26 Neurochemicals and Pain Relief
08:21 Practical Applications and Benefits
09:54 Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Music

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, host Mike introduces the podcast's first medical doctor guest, Dr. Maureen Allen. Dr. Allen shares her extensive journey from being a nurse to becoming a family medicine physician and an emergency medicine expert in Nova Scotia, Canada. The episode dives deep into the complexities of managing chronic pain, explaining how palliative care intersects with chronic pain treatment and the challenges patients face in finding the right care. They discuss the distinctions between acute and chronic pain, the role of emergency departments, and the need for a bottom-up approach to pain management. Dr. Allen also highlights the importance of patient education and shares insights from her own practice to help listeners understand and manage chronic pain more effectively.

Watch on YouTube HERE

00:00 Welcome to the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast
00:10 Introducing Dr. Maureen Allen
00:55 Dr. Allen's Medical Journey
01:54 Chronic Pain and Palliative Care
02:36 Addressing Misconceptions About Substance Use
04:00 Challenges in Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
05:39 Pain Education and Management in Canada
09:08 Emergency Departments and Pain Management
13:09 Understanding Chronic Pain Flare-ups
20:13 Patient Concerns and Misdiagnoses
23:29 Understanding Chronic Pain
24:22 Acute Pain vs. Chronic Pain
25:30 Pain Protective Behaviors
27:33 The Role of Exercise in Pain Management
32:27 The Intersection of Anxiety and Pain
36:05 The Importance of Education and Support
40:29 Real Stories and Hope

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, we welcome Amy Larocca, author of 'How to Be Well: Navigating Our Self-Care Epidemic, one Dubious Cure at a Time'. Amy joins us to discuss the intersection of fashion and wellness, chronic invisible illnesses, and the deceptive allure of the wellness industry. From her observations as a fashion journalist to her personal experiences and deep dive into the world of wellness, Amy reveals the psychological and cultural forces at play. We explore the commercialization of self-care, the rise of wellness trends, and the problematic blend of functional medicine with profit-driven motives. Amy also touches on the controversial role of celebrities, such as Gwyneth Paltrow, in promoting pseudoscience, and the constant societal pressure on women to achieve an unattainable standard of 'wellness'. Join us as we dissect the myths of the wellness industry and delve into the true meaning of self-care.

Watch on YouTube Here

00:00 The Origins of a Name
00:22 Introducing Amy Larocca: From Fashion to Wellness
01:11 The Intersection of Fashion and Wellness
02:37 The Rise of Wellness Trends
04:10 Motherhood and Wellness
06:59 Gwyneth Paltrow and the Goop Phenomenon
17:13 The Allure and Pitfalls of Functional Medicine
23:49 The Growing Gap in Healthcare Access
25:21 Debunking Health Myths
25:43 The Juice Cleanse Phenomenon
28:41 Balancing Humor and Seriousness in Health
29:04 The Absurdity of Health Trends
30:35 The Exploitation of Wellness
39:36 Biohacking and Its Implications
41:32 The Role of Lifestyle Medicine
43:35 Concluding Thoughts on Wellness

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

New Breakthrough: The Neurobiological Basis of Fibromyalgia Pain Revealed

Are you or a loved one struggling with widespread pain often dismissed as stress-induced? Dr. Michael Lenz uncovers groundbreaking data showing that such pain is linked to measurable changes in the brain's structure. This episode delves into a massive study involving over 40,000 participants from the UK Biobank, validating the fibromyalgia index (FMI) as a reliable marker for nociplastic pain, especially seen in fibromyalgia. Key findings spotlight the altered structural connectivity within brain regions like the periaqueductal gray and amygdala, elucidating the link between chronic pain and symptoms such as fatigue and depression. Tune in to grasp a deeper understanding of the biological underpinnings of nociplastic pain and its ramifications for targeted treatments.

Watch on Youtube Here

00:00 Introduction to Nociplastic Pain
01:32 Groundbreaking Study on Fibromyalgia Index
01:52 Understanding Nociplastic Pain and Fibromyalgia
02:52 Brain Networks and Pain Modulation
04:08 Key Findings on Structural Connectivity
04:53 Specific Brain Circuits and Symptoms
06:10 Mediation Models and Symptom Domains
07:10 Specificity of the Fibromyalgia Index
07:48 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
08:16  Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Navigating Chronic Pain and Pseudoscientific Treatments: A Deep Dive

The podcast episode features a conversation centered around the challenges and misconceptions in treating chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and ADHD. Topics covered include the shortcomings of mainstream medicine, supply issues of necessary medications, and the appeal of pseudoscientific treatments. Discussions extend to alternative therapies like EMDR for PTSD, their scientific validity, and potential psychological benefits. The episode critiques pseudoscientific grifts in wellness industries, emphasizes the importance of evidence-based medical approaches, and shares personal anecdotes to underline the significance of comprehensive, scientifically grounded care. The conversation concludes by advocating for skepticism over cynicism and the ethical duty of clinicians to empower patients with accurate information.

00:00 Introduction and Patient Case Study
00:05 Challenges with Fibromyalgia and ADHD
00:31 Alternative Medicine and Root Causes
01:43 Mainstream Medicine vs. Alternative Medicine
03:08 Exploring EMDR Therapy
03:54 The Purple Hat Metaphor
05:15 Debate on EMDR's Effectiveness
08:05 Neuroimaging and Mental Health Diagnosis
11:54 Critique of Alternative Pain Models
16:55 Red Flags in Evaluating Therapies
19:08 Personal Story and Motivation
22:14 Final Thoughts and Advocacy

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Navigating Mental Health and Chronic Illness: Cutting Through Pseudoscience with Dr. Jonathan Stea

In this episode, clinical psychologist and science communicator Dr. Jonathan Stea joins the show to discuss the intersection of chronic illness and mental health. As an advocate against pseudoscience, Dr. Stea offers insights on identifying and avoiding predatory wellness trends while finding effective, evidence-based treatments. Highlighting the multifaceted reasons why people turn to alternative therapies, Dr. Stea emphasizes the importance of accurate information and ethical healthcare practices. The conversation addresses the proliferation of pseudoscientific diagnoses and the complex factors contributing to misinformation in the wellness industry.

00:00 Introduction: Navigating the Maze of Mental Health and Wellness
00:20 Meet Dr. Jonathan Stea: Separating Fact from Fiction
00:46 The Rise of Alternative Therapies
04:26 Understanding the Appeal of Pseudoscience
05:57 The Cognitive and Social Factors at Play
10:58 The Allure of Integrative and Functional Medicine
18:24 The Harmful Impact of Pseudoscience
19:57 Common Pseudoscientific Practices in Mental Health
21:47 The Danger of Fake Diagnoses
23:57 Conclusion: The Need for Evidence-Based Understanding

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Unmasking Medical Misinformation with Scott Carney

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of health, wellness, and medical misinformation with Scott Carney, a medical anthropologist and investigative journalist. Scott shares his journey from academia to mainstream journalism, exposing fraudulent practices in the wellness industry. The conversation navigates the challenges of differentiating evidence-based medicine from pseudoscientific claims, the rise of wellness gurus exploiting vulnerable populations, and the complex nature of health solutions in the digital age. Scott reveals the manipulative tactics of influencers like Mark Hyman and products like AG1, highlighting the psychological and financial pitfalls of believing in unproven therapies. The discussion also addresses the broader implications of this trend, including the erosion of trust in legitimate authorities and the increasing difficulty of finding reliable health information online. Scott advocates for critical thinking, skepticism, and staying informed to avoid falling prey to health scams.

00:00 Introduction to Scott Carney
01:00 Scott Carney's Background and Career
02:04 The Wellness Industry and Evidence-Based Medicine
03:59 Challenges in Evaluating Medical Claims
04:52 Historical Medical Practices and Modern Misconceptions
07:11 The Internet's Role in Health Misinformation
12:57 Functional Medicine and Its Pitfalls
19:44 The Business of Health Influencers
22:42 Case Study: Athletic Greens (AG1)
31:48 The Future of Health Information and Skepticism
39:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Transforming Health Over 50: Maxim Segouin on Plant-Based Living and Fitness

In this episode of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, we continue our conversation with Maxim Seguin, who delves deeper into the mindset shifts, daily habits, and powerful stories that have enabled countless individuals to transform their health through a plant-based lifestyle and physical movement. Seguin shares invaluable insights on the importance of protein and fiber, mindset barriers, and the benefits of strength training, especially for individuals over 50. He also highlights the role of community support and practical strategies for integrating fitness and healthier eating into one's life. This episode is packed with inspiring stories and actionable advice for anyone looking to improve their well-being.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:43 Protein vs. Fiber: What's More Important?
01:54 Mindset and Coaching Strategies
05:00 Success Stories and Transformations
08:47 Key Habits for Health After 50
10:53 Why Focus on People Over 50?
12:29 The Importance of Strength Training
17:12 Debunking Fitness and Nutrition Myths
20:10 Overcoming Barriers to Change
22:13 The Power of Supportive Relationships
24:28 Fit Vegan Program and Community
33:51 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Maximizing Vitality: Movement, Nutrition, and Mindset

In this episode of Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, Dr. Michael Lenz discusses the benefits of movement for chronic pain and fatigue with Maxim Sigouin, host of the Fit Vegan Podcast. They explore overcoming exercise fears, pacing, recognizing soreness, and balancing nutrition with plant-based diets. Key takeaways include starting small, listening to your body, and celebrating progress. Ideal for those with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, or anyone looking to improve strength and energy.

00:00 Introduction to Conquering Fibromyalgia
01:23 Meet Maxim Sieging: A Journey to Plant-Based Living
02:49 Transformative Stories and Starting Small
05:03 Finding the Right Balance in Exercise
09:24 Understanding Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
12:46 Pacing and Assessing Your Fitness Level
21:58 The Role of Nutrition in Fitness and Health
27:04 Vegan vs. Whole Food Plant-Based Diets
30:13 Practical Meal Ideas for a Plant-Based Diet
33:10 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Beyond Weight Loss: Chuck Carroll's Transformative Journey with Chronic Pain and Invisible Illness

In this episode, we share a compelling and deeply personal interview with Chuck Carroll, host of the Exam Room Podcast, originally featured on the Fit Vegan Podcast. Known as the Weight Loss Champion, Chuck's journey extends far beyond shedding over 200 pounds. He discusses his experiences with addiction, trauma, and invisible illnesses including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and disorders of gut-brain interaction. Chuck's story sheds light on the complex relationship between diet, chronic pain, and mental health, touching on his struggles with binge eating and the limitations of conventional treatments. Through candid recounting and medical insights, Chuck highlights the importance of a holistic approach to managing chronic conditions. His journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, hope, and the ongoing battle many face in their search for wellness.

00:00 Introduction: Challenging Beliefs About Chronic Pain and Weight
00:20 Meet Chuck Carroll: The Weight Loss Champion's Hidden Struggles
01:03 Living with Chronic Pain: Chuck's Personal Battle
02:37 The Reality of Binge Eating and Early Health Struggles
04:39 Considering Gastric Surgery: A Desperate Measure
06:49 Post-Surgery Realizations and Dietary Changes
08:52 The Shift to a Plant-Based Diet
14:11 Facing New Health Challenges: Gut-Brain Disorders
17:25 The Role of Stress and Emotional Turmoil
19:29 Navigating Chronic Pain and Seeking Answers
35:00 Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms
38:12 Conclusion: Resilience and Advocacy

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The Reality of 'The Biggest Loser': A Medical Perspective

Watch the video here

Dr. Michael Lenz, a pediatrician, internist, clinical lipidologist, and Lifestyle medicine physician, reviews the Netflix documentary 'The Biggest Loser' from a medical perspective. He discusses the extreme and often dangerous tactics used on the show, the emotional and psychological consequences for contestants, and the implications for long-term health. Dr. Lenz highlights evidence-based treatments for weight loss and related conditions like binge eating disorder and ADHD. Through clips from the show and interviews with experts, he stresses the importance of compassionate, evidence-based care for sustainable health changes.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose
00:26 The Reality of The Biggest Loser
01:33 Personal Struggles and Insights
03:33 Medical Perspectives on Weight Loss
07:02 Extreme Measures and Their Consequences
09:53 Emotional and Psychological Impact
11:04 Temptations and Traps
14:39 Medical Conditions and Personal Stories
18:32 Long-Term Health and Sustainability
23:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Golden Girls and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Lessons from Dorothy's Journey

Dr. Michael Lenz, a pediatrician, internist, clinical lipidologist, and lifestyle medicine physician, explores the depiction of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia through the character Dorothy from the Golden Girls. Reflecting on specific scenes from the 1989 episodes, Dr. Lenz highlights how experiences with these conditions are often dismissed by the medical community, yet remain profoundly debilitating for patients. The episode illustrates the importance of compassionate, holistic care and validates the real suffering behind such invisible illnesses. Dr. Lenz also shares the backstory of how these episodes were inspired by the show creator Susan Harris' real-life experience.

00:00 Introduction to Chronic Pain Syndromes
00:15 Dorothy's Struggle Begins
01:59 Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
03:09 Medical Dismissal and Patient Frustration
04:24 The Impact of Personal Stress
06:15 The Role of Psychiatry in Chronic Illness
09:31 Family Support and Validation
11:47 The Medical Maze and Specialist Referrals
22:57 A Compassionate Diagnosis
28:31 The Backstory of the Golden Girls Episodes
29:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Checkout the video here.

Opioids and Fibromyalgia: Understanding the Risks and Alternatives

In this episode of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, the host delves into the complex and often controversial topic of using opioids for treating fibromyalgia. The discussion is anchored around a comprehensive review from the Mayo Proceedings and explores why opioids, despite being widely prescribed, are not effective for fibromyalgia patients and may even be harmful. The podcast also covers the mechanisms of fibromyalgia, how it differs from other pain disorders, and why alternative treatments such as FDA-approved medications, exercise, sleep management, and cognitive behavioral therapy are more effective. Listeners are encouraged to seek professional medical advice before making any changes to their treatment plans.

00:00 Introduction to Opioids and Fibromyalgia
01:23 Understanding Fibromyalgia and Opioid Use
03:18 Medical Guidelines and Opioid Efficacy
05:39 Neuroimaging Insights and Opioid Hyperalgesia
07:28 Expert Opinions and Alternative Treatments
08:28 Reasons for Continued Opioid Prescriptions
09:27 Psychological and Social Factors
10:26 Moving Forward: Multidisciplinary Care
12:14 Guidance for Current Opioid Users
16:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Building Trust and Effective Communication in Chronic Pain Care with Michelle Makos

In part two of this enlightening conversation, Michelle Makos shares practical strategies for building trust and effective communication between patients and clinicians, emphasizing the importance of validating patients' experiences. Michelle discusses the innovative peer method that is helping transform pain care, reflecting on the complexities in the patient-provider relationship. She offers valuable insights into understanding patients' values and addresses the essential role of self-efficacy and motivation in managing chronic pain. Through her work with Moving Through Chronic Pain and the pain management commission in Oregon, Michelle is dedicated to improving care and education for both patients and providers. This episode is a must-watch for anyone dealing with or treating chronic pain.

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Part One
00:21 Building Trust and Effective Communication
03:14 Understanding Patient Values and Experiences
08:56 The Role of Peer Support in Chronic Pain Management
19:56 Functional Assessment and Validation
29:47 Conclusion and How to Get Connected

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Navigating Chronic Pain: Insights and Support with Michelle Marikos: Part 1

In this episode, we transition from clinical perspectives on fibromyalgia to the lived experiences of chronic pain sufferers. Special guest Michelle Marikos shares her profound journey through chronic pain, surgeries, and the challenging world of opioid treatment. Highlighting the importance of peer support and clear communication, Michelle discusses her work with the PEER method, which supports both patients and healthcare providers. Her story underlines the interconnectedness of chronic pain with family and community, advocating for empathy and effective communication in managing pain. This conversation offers vital insights for both patients and providers, emphasizing that while a cure may not be immediate, there are ways to live a meaningful life alongside chronic pain.

00:00 Introduction to Michelle's Journey
00:49 Meet Michelle Marikos
02:42 Michelle's Early Life and Injury
04:02 The Struggle with Chronic Pain
10:05 Discovering ADHD and Its Impact
15:03 The Role of Family in Chronic Pain
17:28 The PEER Method and Provider Training
19:35 Expectations and Misunderstandings in Chronic Pain
28:14 Reflections on Medical Training and Communication
31:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Practical Strategies for Managing Chronic Pain in Children: Insights with Dr. William Frye

In this episode, Dr. William Frye delves into practical strategies for families and clinicians to help children manage chronic pain. Building on the challenges discussed in part one, he emphasizes the importance of non-pharmacological and multidisciplinary approaches, including sleep, nutrition, and healthy routines, alongside mental health. Dr. Frye highlights the significance of tracking headaches, establishing functional goals, and reducing catastrophizing thoughts through psychoeducation. Additionally, he shares success stories and offers hopeful perspectives for families navigating chronic pain management.

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Part One
00:21 Practical Strategies for Managing Chronic Pain
00:57 Non-Pharmacological Approaches
04:52 Importance of Sleep and Healthy Routines
07:02 Tracking and Understanding Headaches
11:49 Focus on Functionality Over Pain Reduction
17:03 Psychoeducation and Pain Catastrophizing
19:51 Success Stories and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, we explore the complexities of pediatric chronic pain with Dr. William Frye, a pediatric psychologist at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. Dr. Frye discusses the extended journeys families often undertake before reaching specialized care, the prevalence and challenges of polypharmacy, and the significant role non-pharmacological and multidisciplinary approaches play in managing pediatric chronic pain. The episode also delves into the importance of mental health, comprehensive patient assessment, and individualized treatment strategies. Dr. Frye emphasizes the need for holistic care, citing high rates of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation among patients, and sheds light on the unique challenges neurodiverse individuals face. Stay tuned for part two, where practical strategies for managing chronic pain will be discussed.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. William Frye
01:27 Dr. Frye's Background and Journey into Pain Psychology
02:24 Overview of the Headache Study
03:33 Key Findings and Surprising Results
05:41 Challenges in the Healthcare Journey
08:05 Balancing Medication and Non-Medication Treatments
14:47 Mental Health's Role in Chronic Headaches
20:16 Unique Challenges for Neurodevelopmental Conditions
24:11 Benefits of Multidisciplinary Care
26:19 Conclusion and Preview of Part Two

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Celebrating Four Years: Reflections, Fibromyalgia Insights, and Practical Tips

In this special fourth anniversary episode of the podcast, we reflect on four years of sharing expert interviews, insights, and listener stories. Join us as we celebrate this milestone with a scenic walk around Fowler Lake in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, discussing the importance of movement and environment for those living with chronic pain. The episode delves into the science and personal stories behind fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and other invisible illnesses, exploring common misconceptions and frequently asked questions. We also provide practical tips for managing fibromyalgia and chronic pain, discuss the overlaps with ADHD and autism, and highlight the journey of understanding these complex conditions. Whether you're listening or watching on YouTube, this episode offers a blend of personal reflection, medical education, and encouragement from our growing community.

00:00 Welcome to Our Fourth Anniversary Celebration!
00:22 Reflecting on Our Journey and Future Plans
00:34 Practical Tips for Managing Chronic Pain
01:00 The Importance of Movement and Environment
01:11 Understanding Fibromyalgia and Invisible Illnesses
01:20 Personal Stories and Medical Insights
09:42 Exploring Nociplastic Pain Syndromes
25:04 The Role of Environment in Managing Fibromyalgia
27:58 Conclusion and Gratitude

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Navigating ADHD in a Complex World: A Deep Dive with Dr. Emily Wood

In the final episode of a three-part series, Dr. Emily Wood, a pediatric and adult psychiatrist with a focus on neurodivergent individuals, discusses pressing issues in ADHD care. Topics include the potential over-diagnosis and over-prescription of ADHD, the impact of stimulant shortages, and the repercussions of outdated policies and stigma. Dr. Wood highlights how modern societal pressures may amplify ADHD symptoms and advocates for medications as vital support rather than a last resort. The conversation spans the implications of legislation, stimulant classification, and the broader societal impact of untreated ADHD. The episode provides crucial insights for individuals with ADHD, their families, and healthcare professionals. Dr. Wood also shares her experiences and the importance of adapting treatment to meet current needs, emphasizing the significance of recognizing neurodiversity and providing comprehensive care.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:10 Are We Overdiagnosing ADHD?
01:27 The Impact of Modern Life on ADHD
02:36 Medication and Safety Concerns
04:15 Stimulant Shortages and Policy Issues
09:25 Reclassifying Stimulants: Pros and Cons
15:16 Personal Stories and Broader Implications
17:56 Final Thoughts and Future Directions
23:57 Connecting with Dr. Emily Wood
26:19 Conclusion 

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In part two of a three-part series, Dr. Emily Wood, a certified psychiatrist at SpectrumPsych, delves into the complexities of ADHD, autism, and their intersections with chronic pain syndromes. The episode covers the science behind stimulant medications, how they impact the brain, and their efficacy in treating core ADHD symptoms, improving emotional regulation, relationships, and long-term health outcomes. Dr. Wood also shares a compelling case study of a late-diagnosed autistic adult with ADHD. The conversation addresses public misconceptions about addiction, over-prescribing, and the erroneous links between vaccines and autism, while discussing the challenges posed by medication shortages.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:33 Understanding Stimulant Medications for ADHD
06:14 Real-Life Impact of Proper Diagnosis and Treatment
11:16 Addressing Myths and Misconceptions
15:09 Genetics and Multifactorial Nature of Autism
19:25 Concerns About Stimulant Addiction
27:07 Comprehensive Treatment and Patient Stories
33:11 Conclusion 

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In the first of a three-part interview, Dr. Emily Wood, a board-certified psychiatrist and PhD neuroscientist, discusses the complex links between neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD and autism, and chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Dr. Wood, who heads Spectrum Psych LA, sheds light on why these conditions are often overlooked in high-masking individuals and women and explains the sensory processing differences that contribute to chronic pain. The conversation touches on the shortcomings in traditional psychiatric training and the importance of reevaluating medical education to better serve neurodivergent individuals. Dr. Wood also shares insights from her unique training path and discusses the broader implications of misdiagnosis and lack of understanding in the medical community.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Emily Wood and Her Unique Expertise
01:11 Exploring Overlooked Neurodevelopmental Conditions in Women
01:55 The Intersection of Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Chronic Pain
02:52 Dr. Wood's Journey and Insights into Psychiatry
06:27 Challenges in Medical Training and Diagnosis
15:54 Implications of Misdiagnosis and the Importance of Listening
26:11 Concluding Thoughts 

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, Dr. Tamara Rosier, author of 'You, Me, and Our ADHD Family,' shares valuable insights on managing life with ADHD. She discusses emotional regulation, self-awareness, and strategic support, highlighting the pitfalls of following every emotion. She also explores the complexities of romantic relationships involving ADHD, focusing on the importance of personal growth and setting boundaries. The episode concludes with a discussion on the benefits of ADHD coaching, emphasizing its forward-focused and practical problem-solving approach. Listeners are left with a message of hope and the importance of becoming a safe person for others.

00:00 Introduction 
00:29 The Scorpion and the Skunk Analogy
01:21 Emotional Errors and Big Emotions
06:02 Navigating Romantic Relationships with ADHD
07:52 Misguided Empathy in Relationships
09:15 Advice for Those in Challenging Relationships
19:04 ADHD Coaching and Therapy
25:43 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this podcast episode, Dr. Tamara Rosier, a renowned ADHD coach and author, discusses her experiences and insights on managing ADHD within families.  She highlights the importance of understanding ADHD symptoms as neurological challenges rather than character flaws. Dr. Rosier shares personal anecdotes illustrating the impact of ADHD on her upbringing and family dynamics, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding. She introduces the 'window of tolerance' concept to help manage emotional regulation, discusses the significance of building healthy familial relationships despite executive function challenges, and underscores the transformative role of medication in widening the window of tolerance. This episode provides valuable strategies for fostering better relationships in ADHD-affected families.

Checkout the first of a 3 part interview I did with her 2 years ago.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Tamara Rosier
01:31 Personal Stories and Family Dynamics
03:44 Challenges and Compassion in ADHD Families
06:16 Parenting with ADHD: Real-Life Examples
10:48 The Window of Tolerance Explained
25:21 Medication and Managing ADHD
25:53 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

This episode delves into the intersections of ADHD, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), and Fibromyalgia (FM), drawing on clinical observations and research findings. It explores how ADHD traits can overlap with symptoms of CFS and FM, particularly focusing on non-restorative sleep and exertional fatigue. The discussion highlights the struggles patients face, the importance of a systematic diagnostic approach, and the need for better education and understanding among healthcare providers. The episode also touches on co-occurring conditions like restless leg syndrome and the treatment. Practical advice is shared for both patients and clinicians on recognizing and managing these interconnected disorders.

00:00 Introduction and Initial Observations
00:37 The Impact of ADHD on Chronic Pain
01:23 Public Health Implications of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
02:46 Challenges in Diagnosing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
04:06 Understanding Fatigue and Its Different Forms
06:54 Restless Leg Syndrome and ADHD
09:10 The Role of Exercise in Managing ADHD and Fatigue
18:49 The Overlap Between ADHD and Autism
25:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, Dr. Michael, a pediatrician and author of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia,' discusses the connections between ADHD, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia with Dr. Joel Young, a psychiatrist and head of the Rochester Center for Behavioral Medicine. The conversation delves into their shared experiences and research on treating these overlapping conditions, highlighting findings from clinical trials on LDX (Vyvanse) and Sorial (Armodafinil) as treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome. They explore the prevalence of ADHD in patients with chronic fatigue and discuss the limitations of traditional neuropsychological testing in diagnosing ADHD. Dr. Young shares insights on the effectiveness of targeted interventions and presents his clinic's innovative diagnostic tool, Mind Metrics, which aids in identifying psychiatric disorders in patients.

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:17 Guest Introduction: Dr. Joel Young
02:02 Dr. Young's Journey and ADHD Focus
04:03 Exploring ADHD and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
07:00 Clinical Trials and Findings
09:47 Patient Experiences and Qualitative Insights
10:11 Ongoing Research and Future Directions
17:05 Challenges in Diagnosing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
24:16 Discussion on Neuropsychological Testing

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

This detailed podcast episode delves into the findings of a study on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) using functional MRI and immune system analysis. The speaker explains the technology behind functional MRI and what it revealed about brain activity, specifically in the parietal temporal junction, which showed hypoactivity in CFS patients. The discussion extends to immune abnormalities, highlighting immune cell exhaustion, and hypothesizing links to persistent infections. The episode emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary, evidence-based approaches to treating these 'invisible' illnesses and calls for more integrated, patient-centric research. Other discussed topics include the limitations of current medical specialization and the need for generalist knowledge, the role of gut microbiome, and potential lessons from oncology on immune checkpoints.

00:00 Introduction to Functional MRI
01:48 Understanding Functional MRI Findings
04:08 Immune System Insights
04:54 Cancer Research and Immune Exhaustion
09:01 Genetic Susceptibility and Long COVID
10:33 Holistic Approach to Medicine
13:34 Challenges in Treating CFS and Fibromyalgia
15:38 Future Directions in Research
22:40 Gut Microbiome and Immune Response
25:41 Neurodivergence and Immune System
29:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, we delve into the ongoing research and new findings related to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). The discussion covers the development of standardized diagnostic criteria known as the Hingston Criteria, as well as the discovery of biological abnormalities in CFS patients. Key areas of focus include the autonomic nervous system, heart rate variability, and muscle strength.  The episode also touches on the concept of 'effort preference' and the complex interplay between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity in chronic conditions like CFS and fibromyalgia. Additionally, the episode previews upcoming discussions on findings from functional MRIs of the brain in CFS patients.

00:00 Introduction and Importance of Defining the Disease
00:15 The Hingston Criteria: A New Standard for Clinical Trials
00:59 Biological Evidence and Clinical Trials
02:13 Autonomic Dysfunction in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
04:14 Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Systems Explained
08:24 Chronic Stress and Its Impact on Health
10:21 Comparing Functional Somatic Syndromes and Stress-Related Syndromes
20:59 Muscle Strength and Cognitive Effort in CFS
22:28 Understanding EMG and Its Diagnostic Value
26:57 Effort Preference and Its Clinical Implications
28:42 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, we kick off a series on chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), often overlapping with fibromyalgia. The discussion features Dr. Avindrah Nath, a leading expert on neurologic infections and intramural clinical director at the NIH. Dr. Nath provides insights from his extensive research on ME/CFS, which includes a comprehensive study involving metabolic, neurologic, and cognitive tests. Delving into the relationships between post-viral syndromes, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia, Dr. Nath explains the intensive process of selecting pure patient samples for accurate study results and debunks common misconceptions. The episode also covers the criteria for diagnosing ME/CFS and fibromyalgia, highlighted by personal accounts from those living with these conditions, and explores the controversial topic of whether they represent the same or different illnesses.

00:00 Introduction to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
02:18 Meet Dr. Avira Nath: Journey into Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
04:38 The NIH Study: Unveiling Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
07:14 In-Depth Testing and Patient Selection
09:44 Diagnostic Criteria: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome vs. Fibromyalgia
13:24 Symptom Comparison and Overlaps
25:34 Patient Experiences and Definitions of Fatigue
29:00 Conclusion and Next Steps

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, Heather addresses the misconceptions surrounding ADHD, particularly the notion that intelligent and successful individuals can't have ADHD. She emphasizes that ADHD can often be the underlying cause of various misdiagnosed conditions like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. Heather discusses her evolved therapeutic approach, which involves providing more active coaching and grounding clients to prevent them from feeling like they're spinning without direction. She highlights the importance of self-trust, proactive self-care, and healthier dopamine sources for managing ADHD. The conversation also touches on the role of psychoeducation in relationships, the impact of chronic pain, and the benefits of finding the right type of therapy for ADHD. Heather concludes by encouraging listeners to examine and challenge the stories they tell themselves and to seek therapists who truly understand the ADHD brain.

00:00 Addressing Misconceptions About ADHD
01:35 The Role of a Therapist in ADHD Treatment
02:48 Navigating Therapy for ADHD
06:00 The Impact of ADHD on Relationships
09:06 Understanding Dopamine and ADHD
14:03 Personal Journey and Coping Strategies
19:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, Heather DeAngelis, an APSARD member and ADHD specialist, joins the host to discuss her unexpected journey into the field of ADHD therapy. Heather shares her experiences and insights into managing ADHD and its related conditions, including binge eating disorder. The conversation delves into the importance of Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and its applications, particularly for those with chronic pain syndromes and other challenges. Heather emphasizes the necessity of understanding one's brain and behavioral therapies beyond conventional methods. The episode concludes with an acknowledgment of the complex relationship between physical and emotional pain, and the significance of an integrated approach to treatment.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:50 Heather's Journey into ADHD Specialization
02:00 Understanding ADHD and Co-occurring Conditions
03:35 Binge Eating Disorder and ADHD
08:47 Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT)
27:59 Emotional Regulation and ADHD
29:42 Integrative Approach to Mental and Physical Health
35:03 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

This episode deviates from the norm to feature excerpts from a heartfelt interview with Chuck Carroll, host of the Exam Room podcast, as shared on the Fit Vegan podcast. Chuck, known as the weight loss champion, opens up about his life beyond losing over 200 pounds and adopting a plant-based diet. He discusses his battles with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and gut-brain interaction disorders, exploring how these conditions are often misunderstood and overlooked, particularly in men. The conversation delves into Chuck’s personal struggles with addiction, severe binge eating, and the emotional rollercoaster that accompanied his journey towards better health. He provides insights into how stress and emotional turmoil exacerbated his condition, despite his diligent adherence to a healthy diet. This episode is particularly timely during fibromyalgia awareness month and aims to shed light on the intricate relationship between diet, mental health, and chronic illness.

00:00 Introduction: Challenging Beliefs About Chronic Pain and Weight
00:06 Meet Chuck Carroll: The Weight Loss Champion's Hidden Struggles
02:39 Chuck's Early Life and Struggles with Food Addiction
04:41 The Turning Point: Considering Gastric Surgery
08:53 Life After Surgery: The Battle with Food Cravings
09:29 Exploring a Plant-Based Diet for Recovery
14:13 The Onset of Chronic Illnesses
16:19 Navigating the Medical Maze: Searching for Answers
17:27 The Role of Stress and Emotional Turmoil
21:22 Living with Chronic Pain: Daily Struggles and Coping Mechanisms
23:23 The Importance of Holistic and Compassionate Care
32:24 Facing Public Scrutiny and Misunderstanding
38:01 Finding Hope and Moving Forward
38:46 Conclusion: A Message of Resilience and Support

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this second part of the interview with Laura Valero, a nurse practitioner living with fibromyalgia, the discussion focuses on practical guidance for new practitioners. Laura shares her experiences navigating the biomedical approach to fibromyalgia treatment at a new practice. The importance of using diagnostic tools like the widespread pain index and symptom severity score, and the necessity of patient education and empathy was emphasized. Highlighting the need for a holistic, lifestyle medicine approach, Laura also discusses her personal journey, the impact of ADHD on fibromyalgia, and the lack of training and understanding among clinicians. The interview underscores the value of patient-centered care in managing chronic conditions.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview with Laura Valero
00:20 Guidance for New Practitioners
00:51 Challenges in Fibromyalgia Diagnosis and Treatment
01:37 Using Diagnostic Tools Effectively
02:58 Patient Interaction and Care
03:24 Understanding and Managing Fibromyalgia Pain
05:59 The Importance of Patient History
08:23 Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
12:17 The Role of Education in Fibromyalgia Treatment
17:45 ADHD and Fibromyalgia Connection
22:54 Functional Medicine vs. Lifestyle Medicine
26:20 Impact of Menopause on Fibromyalgia
27:46 Benefits of Adderall for Fibromyalgia
30:55 Advice for Clinicians and Patients
32:35 Conclusion and Contact Information

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, the conversation delves into the unique journey and insights of Laura Valero, a nurse practitioner living with fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. Laura shares her path from military intelligence officer to healthcare provider, detailing her late-life transition into medicine sparked by extensive exposure to lifestyle medicine and personal health challenges. The dialogue highlights significant knowledge and training gaps in diagnosing and managing fibromyalgia, migraines, ADHD, and related conditions. Laura discusses the transformative impact of adopting a whole food plant-based diet, obtaining ADHD diagnosis and medication, and extensive experience in primary care. Key themes include the importance of integrative medical education, the role of lifestyle changes in managing chronic conditions, and the necessity for empathetic and comprehensive patient care.

00:00 Introduction and Missed Connections
00:06 Discovering the Podcast and Book
00:57 Guest Introduction: Laura Valero
01:50 Laura's Background and Career Journey
05:05 Transition to Plant-Based Lifestyle
06:41 Health Challenges and Diagnoses
07:22 Impact of ADHD Diagnosis
08:37 Helping Patients with Fibromyalgia
21:07 Challenges in Primary Care
33:43 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

This episode continues the series on the connection between hormones and chronic pain syndromes, with a focus on the relationship between fibromyalgia and menopause. It discusses whether screening for fibromyalgia should be considered for patients experiencing unexplained chronic fatigue around menopause, reviews various studies on hormone therapy and its impact on fibromyalgia symptoms, and examines the role of food, particularly a plant-based diet, in managing hot flashes. Key findings from these studies highlight mixed results on hormone therapy's effectiveness in alleviating fibromyalgia symptoms, but underscore the importance of sleep and diet in managing both menopause and fibromyalgia-related issues.

00:00 Introduction to Hormones and Chronic Pain
00:12 Fibromyalgia and Menopause: An Intriguing Connection
01:31 Screening for Fibromyalgia in Menopausal Women
03:48 Hormone Therapy and Fibromyalgia: Research Insights
08:09 Detailed Study on Hormone Therapy and Fibromyalgia
12:22 Impact of Hormone Therapy on Sleep and Quality of Life
22:21 The Role of Diet in Managing Hot Flashes
27:14 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Impact of Menstrual Cycle and Menopause on Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain and introduction to a proposed new syndrome, the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause.

This episode delves into the connection between hormones, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions like migraines and endometriosis, emphasizing the significant impact of a woman's menstrual cycle, perimenopause, and menopause on chronic pain. Various studies and polls on symptom severity during different menstrual phases and post-menopause are discussed. The crucial role of estrogen in maintaining musculoskeletal health is elaborated, along with the negative consequences of estrogen decline, such as increased inflammation, bone loss, muscle weakness, and osteoarthritis. The episode also covers the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in alleviating these issues, touching on the historical trends and evolving practices in HRT usage. A comprehensive approach to managing menopause-related symptoms, including nutrition, exercise, and personalized medical advice, is encouraged. The episode concludes by highlighting upcoming discussions on studies involving hormone therapy for fibromyalgia patients.

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Hormones
00:20 Impact of Menstrual Cycle on Chronic Pain
01:16 Fibromyalgia and Menopause
01:27 Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause
02:36 Estrogen's Role in Musculoskeletal Health
06:39 Managing Sarcopenia and Muscle Loss
08:41 Osteoporosis and Bone Health
13:58 Hormone Replacement Therapy Trends
17:15 Hormone Therapy Risks and Benefits
26:06 Hormone Therapy and Mental Health
28:32 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

This episode dives into the complex relationship between migraines and hormonal changes, particularly focusing on estrogen. The discussion covers the prevalence of migraines, the distinction between migraines with and without aura, and the significant impact of reproductive hormones on migraine patterns, especially in women. Key topics include the discovery of the estrogen threshold, the influence of estrogen on neurotransmitter systems like serotonin and glutamate, and the potential of hormone-based treatments. The episode also examines the role of the trigeminal vascular system, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and the impact of oral contraceptives on migraine frequency and intensity. Practical strategies for managing menstrual migraines and the importance of using headache diaries for accurate diagnosis are highlighted.

00:00 Introduction to Migraines
00:20 Types of Migraines and Auras
00:42 Sex Differences in Migraine Prevalence
00:59 Hormonal Influence on Migraines
01:53 Estrogen's Role in Menstrual Migraines
02:05 Historical Breakthroughs in Migraine Research
02:35 Estrogen Threshold and Migraine Triggers
04:10 Estrogen's Impact on Brain Function
07:29 Neurotransmitters and Migraine Pathways
11:15 Oxytocin and Migraine Prevention
13:20 Trigeminal Vascular System and Migraines
16:46 Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide and Inflammation
20:38 Oral Contraceptives and Migraine Management
24:59 The Importance of Headache Diaries
26:45 Conclusion and Future Research

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, Dr. Michael Lenz delves into the complex relationship between hormones and chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, dysmenorrhea, and others. The focus is on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), exploring the impact of estrogen and progesterone fluctuations on pain perception and symptom management. Key studies are discussed to highlight the relationship between menstrual cycles and fibromyalgia symptoms. The episode also covers the genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors contributing to PMDD, as well as treatment options ranging from SSRIs and hormonal treatments to lifestyle changes and cognitive behavioral therapy. The intricate link between ADHD in women and mood disorders like PMDD and depression is also examined.

00:00 Introduction to Hormones and Chronic Pain
00:56 Understanding Hormonal Fluctuations
02:26 Clinical Studies on Hormones and Pain
03:48 The Role of Estrogen and Progesterone
04:42 Historical Perspective on Premenstrual Disorders
06:28 Diagnosing PMDD: Symptoms and Criteria
07:39 Causes and Brain Sensitivity in PMDD
09:35 Genetic and Neurobiological Factors
10:45 Serotonin and Allopregnanolone in PMDD
12:06 Stress, Inflammation, and PMDD
13:33 Treatment Options: SSRIs and Hormonal Therapies
16:26 Advanced Treatments and Surgical Options
21:06 ADHD and Hormone-Related Mood Disorders
27:43 Managing PMDD: Lifestyle and Non-Pharmacological Approaches
31:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The Interaction Between Hormones and ADHD in Women

In this episode, the speaker delves into the complex relationship between hormones and ADHD, particularly focusing on how hormonal changes impact women diagnosed with ADHD. They discuss the significant overlap between symptoms of ADHD and conditions like PMS and PMDD, and the lack of targeted research, which predominantly focuses on prepubertal males. The episode highlights individual variances in how women respond to hormonal fluctuations and ADHD medications, and emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans. Discussion also covers the societal and individual costs of undiagnosed ADHD and explores the dramatic improvement in quality of life when ADHD is properly diagnosed and treated. Dr/ Skoglund also touches upon bad advice often given to ADHD patients and underscores the need for structured routines. The episode concludes by exploring the positive impacts of proper ADHD diagnosis and treatment, through both professional and anecdotal experiences, alongside resources available for women seeking better understanding and support for their ADHD.

00:00 Introduction to Hormones and ADHD
00:27 PMS, PMDD, and ADHD Overlap
02:06 Hormonal Fluctuations and ADHD Symptoms
06:23 Clinical Experiences and Research
09:43 ADHD in Women: Misconceptions and Realities
14:21 Impact of Menopause on ADHD
27:34 The Importance of ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment
30:33 Resources and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, the host interviews Dr. Lotta Skogland, a Swedish psychiatrist and author of 'ADHD Girls to Women: Getting on the Radar.' Dr. Skogland shares her extensive experience in ADHD and addiction, discussing the significant comorbidities and the unique challenges faced by girls and women with ADHD. The conversation delves into the biological, social, and psychological aspects that contribute to the underdiagnosis and mischaracterization of ADHD in females. Dr. Skogland emphasizes the importance of recognizing female-specific symptoms, the impact of fluctuating hormones, and the need for tailored medical approaches. The discussion also highlights systemic biases and the critical need for better awareness and understanding among healthcare professionals.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:45 Dr. Skogland's Journey into ADHD Research
03:07 Understanding ADHD in Women
05:27 Challenges in Diagnosing ADHD in Women
08:24 ADHD Symptoms in Girls and Women
12:43 Societal Biases and ADHD
14:30 Hormonal Influences on ADHD
18:31 Healthcare System Failures
22:38 The Importance of Listening to Patients
29:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, Kristen Hovet interviews Dr. Lenz to explore the connections between neurodivergence, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain syndromes. They discuss the intersections of conditions like autism and ADHD with chronic health issues, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care. Through shared stories, they highlight the medical system's challenges for neurodivergent individuals and advocate for a compassionate, evidence-based approach to pain management. The conversation also tackles misconceptions about conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, advocating for greater empathy in healthcare. This episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice for medical professionals, individuals living with chronic pain, and anyone curious about the link between neurodivergence and health. Dr. Lenz shares personal stories and professional experiences to illustrate these points. Tune in for a crucial discussion on improving care for neurodivergent individuals.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode
01:07 Exploring Neurodivergence and Chronic Pain
02:20 Personal Stories and Medical Insights
04:45 Misconceptions and Realities of Fibromyalgia
06:39 Advocating for Neurodivergent Health Needs
11:01 Challenges in Medical Training and Practice
31:48 Understanding Pain Perception in ADHD
36:37 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode Dr.  Lenz, is interviewed  by Kristen Hovet, host of The Other Autism Podcast. The conversation delves into Dr. Lenz's medical background, his dedication to lifelong learning, and his focus on chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia, EDS, POTS, and more. Dr. Lenz explains three types of pain: nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain, and discusses the significant overlap between invisible illnesses and neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism. The interview sheds light on the challenges and misconceptions in diagnosing these conditions, emphasizing the need for a holistic, evidence-based approach to support patients.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview
00:17 Meet Dr. Michael Lenz
02:50 Understanding Chronic Pain Syndromes
06:27 Exploring Fibromyalgia and Related Conditions
08:31 Personal Journey and Insights
18:06 Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Chronic Pain
32:11 Tailoring Treatment for Neurodivergent Patients
41:22 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this week's episode, we delve into Annie Kotowicz's book 'What I Mean When I Say I'm Autistic,' exploring her autistic life. The episode highlights her personal experiences before and after diagnosis, offering insights into sensory sensitivities, social interactions, and the nuances of living as an autistic adult. Addressing common misconceptions, Annie's narrative is a blend of memoir and manifesto, aimed at helping both autistic individuals and those around them better understand and appreciate the autistic mind.

00:00 Introduction to This Week's Episode
00:17 Inside the Mind of an Autistic Woman
00:52 Understanding Autism and Its Impact
02:07 The Importance of Adult Diagnosis
03:13 Personal Experiences and Reflections
05:41 Discovering Autism in Adulthood
09:45 The Concept of Masking
18:34 Sensory Sensitivity and Empathy
28:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In the second half of the conversation with dietitian Joy Lenz, practical advice is shared on transitioning to a healthier, more plant-based diet. Topics include common nutrient deficiencies like fiber versus protein, tips for incorporating plant-based protein sources such as legumes, nuts, and whole grains, and dealing with dietary concerns and social challenges. Joy provides insights into common pitfalls people face when going plant-based and offers solutions, including her work with clients. Strategies for meal planning, handling cravings, and personalized diet plans are also discussed.

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
00:19 Protein vs. Fiber: What's More Important?
01:05 Addressing Protein Deficiency Myths
03:44 Plant-Based Protein Sources
05:42 High-Fiber Plant-Based Foods
08:31 Common Mistakes in Transitioning to Plant-Based Diet
13:51 Navigating Social and Family Challenges
18:50 Working with a Dietitian
26:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Transitioning to a Whole Foods Plant-Based Lifestyle: Insights For Better Health

In this week's episode, the hosts delve into the concept of a whole foods plant-based diet, prompted by a listener question from Dan.  Joy Lenz, a registered dietitian with an extensive background in nutrition and culinary education shares her personal journey into adopting this lifestyle and explains the fundamental principles that distinguish it from vegetarian and vegan diets. The discussion covers practical tips for transitioning to a whole foods plant-based diet, including examples of breakfast, lunch, and dinner transformations and the benefits of batch cooking. Joy dispels common myths and outlines numerous health benefits, such as improved gut health, weight loss, reduced inflammation, and lower risks of chronic diseases.

00:00 Introduction and Listener Question
00:25 Meet Joy Lenz: A Registered Dietitian's Journey
00:50 Discovering the Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet
05:48 Understanding Whole Foods Plant-Based Lifestyle
11:18 Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet
17:02 Debunking Myths About Plant-Based Diets
19:13 Practical Tips for Transitioning to Plant-Based Eating
24:23 Meal Transformations and Batch Cooking
27:57 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this insightful episode, the focus is on ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), a complex eating disorder officially recognized in 2013. The discussion covers how ARFID differs from typical picky eating, its unique characteristics, manifestation, and common misunderstandings. The episode features the personal account of a young adult dealing with ARFID alongside anxiety, neurodivergence, and chronic pain. It emphasizes holistic treatment approaches, including therapeutic relationships, gradual exposure to new foods, and a biopsychosocial spiritual environmental model. The episode wraps up with practical advice for caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals, highlighting the importance of empathy, patience, and collaboration in helping individuals with ARFID thrive. Additionally, it provides insights on how to support young adults and the importance of recognizing co-occurring conditions.

00:00 Introduction to ARFID
01:13 Understanding ARFID vs. Picky Eating
04:02 Case Study: Navigating ARFID with Neurodivergence
05:12 The Role of Gut Health in ARFID
06:55 Therapeutic Approaches and Practical Advice
10:56 Building Trust and Collaborative Treatment
19:50 Holistic and Long-Term Strategies
25:46 Conclusion and Resources

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this special two-part interview, Keira Oseroff Lambert, an expert in eating disorders, delves into the challenges surrounding food, eating, and nutrition. The discussion highlights influential models like Ellyn Satter's division of responsibility, strategies for addressing sensory sensitivities, and practical advice for supporting neurodivergent individuals. The interview provides valuable insights for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of eating behaviors.

00:00 Introductions
02:08 Keira's Journey and Professional Background
04:24 Introduction to Ellyn Satter and Her Work
06:30 Implementing Ellyn's Models in Real Life
07:17 Personal Experiences and Professional Growth
17:37 Practical Advice for Parents and Caregivers
18:42 Challenges and Strategies for Picky Eaters
39:14 Accommodating Neurodivergent Individuals
51:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Impact of ADHD on Obesity and Weight Loss Management

This episode explores the significant impact of ADHD on obesity and challenges in maintaining a healthy diet. Last week's discussion on the pleasure trap and social environment dynamics sets the stage for this week's review of a 2009 study on treating refractory obesity in severely obese adults newly diagnosed with ADHD. The study, published in the International Journal of Obesity, investigates whether ADHD pharmacologic treatment leads to sustained weight loss. The findings reveal a higher prevalence of severe obesity among individuals with ADHD and significant weight loss in treated individuals. The episode further delves into the complexities of ADHD's impact on time management, task completion, and emotional regulation, which are crucial for successful weight loss. Additionally, it discusses the implications for weight loss surgery candidates and the potential benefits of integrating ADHD treatment with lifestyle and dietary interventions, including whole food plant-based diets. The episode concludes with insights into treating binge eating disorder and its connection with ADHD, highlighting the effectiveness of medications like Vyvanse. Listeners are encouraged to consider the bio-psycho-social holistic multifaceted approach to managing obesity and chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.

00:00 Understanding ADHD's Impact on Obesity
00:39 Exploring the Study on ADHD and Obesity Treatment
06:39 Study Findings and Discussion
14:01 Implications 
22:18 Binge Eating Disorder 
32:30 Conclusion and Future Directions

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, listeners explore the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet, particularly a whole food plant-based diet, crucial for managing fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Dr. Lenz delves into the concept of the pleasure trap, the biological and psychological challenges posed by modern high-calorie foods, and the additional complexities introduced by conditions like ADHD. The episode provides strategies to overcome these barriers, emphasizing the importance of resetting taste buds, eliminating triggers, meal planning, and building a support network. 

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Healthy Eating
00:43 Challenges of Adopting a Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet
02:21 Understanding the Pleasure Trap
07:55 Overcoming Barriers to Healthy Eating
10:57 Strategies to Escape the Pleasure Trap
18:12 ADHD and Its Impact on Healthy Eating
24:10 Conclusion and Next Steps

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Exploring the Benefits of Plant-Based Diets for Osteoarthritis with Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg

In this continuation of the conversation with a leading rheumatologist from the Netherlands, the focus shifts towards the Plants for Joints Osteoarthritis Trial. The trial targets individuals with osteoarthritis, demonstrating significant improvements in pain, stiffness, and physical function through a plant-based diet. He discusses the study results, comparing them to standard treatments like semaglutide, the challenges of funding non-pharmacological interventions, and the growing acceptance of dietary recommendations among rheumatologists. He emphasizes the potential of lifestyle changes in managing chronic conditions and shares anecdotes of patient success stories. The episode highlights the importance of dietary changes in medical practice and encourages listeners to consider a plant-based diet as a viable option for managing osteoarthritis.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg and the Osteoarthritis Study
00:35 Overview of the Osteoarthritis Study Results
04:06 Comparing Lifestyle Changes and Medications
05:17 Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg Dietary Recommendations
07:52 Challenges and Successes in Research Funding
10:36 Long-term Effects and Patient Anecdotes
16:42 Global Dietary Shifts and Implications
25:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In the first episode of a two-part series, the Plants for Joints trial is explored, focusing on whether a plant-based diet can alleviate arthritis symptoms. A study participant shares his positive experience with dietary changes on his rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg, a seasoned rheumatologist, discusses how lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, and exercise play a crucial role in managing arthritis. Promising results from the Plants for Joints trial show that a whole food plant-based diet, alongside proper lifestyle changes, can significantly reduce disease activity markers, comparable to modern drug treatments. The conversation also covers the metabolic mechanisms behind diet and arthritis, along with historical studies that laid the groundwork for current research.

00:00 Introduction to the Plants for Joints Trial
00:41 Personal Testimony: Life Before and After the Trial
01:16 Challenges and Commitment to a Plant-Based Diet
01:56 Remarkable Improvements and Quality of Life
02:43 Recommendations for Others with Rheumatoid Arthritis
03:21 Interview with Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg
06:25 Understanding Metabolic Factors and Inflammation
10:04 Historical Studies on Diet and Arthritis
13:29 Details of the Plants for Joints Trial
18:25 Results and Impact of the Trial
26:40 Compliance and Lifestyle Changes
29:52 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, the weight loss series delves into the connections between obesity and chronic pain, and the benefits of weight loss on reducing chronic pain. The episode discusses a detailed analysis of a study conducted in New Zealand that revealed the effectiveness of a whole food plant-based diet in achieving significant weight loss and improving health outcomes such as cholesterol levels, waist circumference, and medication usage emphasizing the diet's comparative advantages and its practical application in reducing pain associated with conditions like obesity and fibromyalgia.

00:00 Introduction to Weight Loss and Chronic Pain
00:57 Exploring Diets for Weight Loss
02:09 Whole Food Plant-Based Diet Study
02:54 Study Methodology and Participant Criteria
04:59 Dietary Intervention Details
08:15 Study Results and Analysis
14:44 Comparing Weight Loss Interventions
19:40 Whole Food Plant-Based Diet and Fibromyalgia
22:29 Fibromyalgia Study Results
26:35 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Teresa's Journey: Overcoming Fibromyalgia with Dr. Michael Lenz

In this special Christmas episode of the 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' podcast, Dr. Michael Lenz shares the inspiring story of his patient, Teresa, who successfully reversed her fibromyalgia through a comprehensive holistic approach. Teresa recounts her long struggle with chronic pain, fatigue, and numerous failed treatments until she found hope and effective strategies with Dr. Lenz. This episode marks the beginning of a series exploring her journey from extreme fibromyalgia to a life of significantly reduced symptoms. Listeners will learn about the importance of proper diagnosis, the role of coexisting conditions like restless leg syndrome and ADHD, and the impact of lifestyle changes like diet and pacing in managing fibromyalgia.

00:00 Introduction and Christmas Greetings
00:10 Teresa's Fibromyalgia Journey Begins
00:32 Challenges and Misunderstandings
01:00 Meeting Dr. Lenz
02:16 Teresa's Struggles with Daily Life
05:23 Seeking Medical Help
10:40 The Turning Point
13:29 Living with Fibromyalgia
15:34 Diagnosis and Treatment
26:10 Restless Leg Syndrome and ADHD
33:58 Struggles with Retention and Bullying
34:39 Family Awareness and Genetic Factors
35:31 Early Symptoms and Academic Challenges
36:01 Career Aspirations 
37:42 Managing Coexisting Conditions
39:13 Pacing and Lifestyle Adjustments
46:43 Dietary Changes and Health Improvements
01:01:50 Encouragement for Those with Fibromyalgia
01:03:55 Support and Understanding from Family and Friends
01:08:40 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Joy Lenz

Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. 

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, we continue our series on weight loss, obesity, and their link to chronic pain syndromes. Joined by a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, Dr. Michael Greger we discuss various weight loss strategies, including bariatric surgery, GLP-1 agonists, and the benefits and risks of these medical interventions. The discussion focuses on the potential of whole food plant-based diets as a natural alternative for long-term weight loss, backed by evidence such as the BROAD study from New Zealand. Highlighting the role of natural satiety hormones and the benefits of plant-based nutrition, this episode aims to debunk myths around diet and redefine approaches to sustainable, health-promoting weight loss.

00:00 Introduction to Weight Loss and Chronic Pain
01:19 Risks and Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists
03:26 Natural Alternatives to Weight Loss Drugs
04:02 Understanding Appetite and Obesity
06:43 Challenges of Calorie-Restricted Diets
08:21 The Role of Environment in Obesity
09:40 Sustainable Weight Loss with Whole Foods
17:07 Thermogenic Effects of Plant-Based Diets
18:51 Changing Cravings and Palate Adaptation
22:31 The Power of Healthy Eating
30:01 Conclusion and Encouragement

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Exploring GLP-1 Agonists: A Game Changer for Weight Loss and Chronic Pain?

This is the 3rd episode in the ongoing series on obesity and chronic pain continuing with a discussion on GLP-1 agonists and their impact on chronic pain, specifically fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. The role of GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide in managing diabetes and obesity, their mechanisms of action, and clinical applications is discussed. A recent study from the New England Journal of Medicine detailing the effects of semaglutide on weight loss and osteoarthritis pain is analyzed, highlighting significant improvements in patients with obesity and knee osteoarthritis. The importance of long-term use, potential side effects, and the need for an integrated approach incorporating diet and exercise are also discussed. The episode concludes with the anticipation of next week's guest, Dr. Michael Greger, who will discuss the benefits of a whole food plant-based diet as an alternative to GLP-1 agonists.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Weight Loss Series
00:55 Exploring GLP-1 Agonists
02:05 How GLP-1 Agonists Work
03:42 Clinical Applications and Benefits
04:19 Challenges and Considerations
09:18 GLP-1 Agonists and the Gut Microbiome
11:55 Effectiveness of GLP-1 Agonists
18:10 Study on Semaglutide and Osteoarthritis
30:10 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Chronic Pain Syndromes

In this episode, we explore the significant relationship between obesity and chronic pain, and the impact of weight loss on conditions such as fibromyalgia, specifically highlighting bariatric surgery. Key aspects discussed include different types of bariatric surgeries, their mechanisms, benefits, risks, and long-term commitment required for success. Various studies are reviewed showcasing the effects of weight loss on knee osteoarthritis, chronic pain improvement post-surgery, and overall physical function. Future episodes promise to delve into the impact of GLP-1 agonists, very low-calorie diets, and whole food plant-based diets on chronic pain and autoimmune conditions.

00:00 Introduction to Chronic Pain and Obesity
00:39 Understanding Eating Disorders and Weight Loss
01:11 Overview of Weight Loss Interventions
01:45 Bariatric Surgery Explained
03:47 Types of Bariatric Surgery
05:47 Post-Surgery Effects and Benefits
06:46 Risks and Long-Term Commitment
08:29 Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Chronic Pain
08:35 Study on Knee Osteoarthritis and Bariatric Surgery
14:41 Predictors of Chronic Pain Post-Surgery
16:55 Longitudinal Study on Pain and Function
20:23 Meta-Analysis on Back Pain and Bariatric Surgery
22:53 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

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Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

The Complex Interplay Between Obesity and Chronic Pain

In this episode of the 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' podcast, Dr. Michael Lenz delves into the intricate relationship between obesity and chronic pain syndromes, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and migraines. He explores how obesity and chronic pain often co-exist, affecting each other in a challenging cycle intertwined with feelings of shame, frustration, and hopelessness. Dr. Lenz discusses various studies and findings that highlight the prevalence of chronic pain among obese individuals, the potential physiological and psychological factors involved, and the implications for patient care. Emphasizing an evidence-based approach, he aims to provide listeners with strategies for managing both conditions, fostering a supportive and hopeful journey towards better health.

00:00 Introduction
00:33 Understanding Obesity and Chronic Pain
01:06 The Emotional Impact of Obesity
01:51 Frustration and Exhaustion in Weight Management
02:39 Defeat and Resilience
03:12 Hope and Self-Compassion
03:58 Diving into Obesity and Chronic Pain
04:10 Defining Obesity and Chronic Pain
08:15 Studies on Obesity and Chronic Pain
16:55 Obesity's Impact on Joint Pain and Surgery
24:42 Psychological and Lifestyle Factors
27:55 Clinical Implications and Conclusion

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Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode  Dr. Lenz continues his insightful conversation with Donna, a nurse coach, who shares her transformative experience with a whole food plant-based diet. They discuss scientific studies and personal anecdotes illustrating the significant health benefits of this diet, particularly for conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic pain, IBS, heart disease, and even dementia. The episode covers practical advice for beginners, including simple meal ideas and the importance of a supportive environment. Donna emphasizes the power of lifestyle changes and the role of coaching in achieving lasting health improvements.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:58 Donna's Journey to Plant-Based Nutrition
04:30 Scientific Evidence and Studies
13:35 Practical Tips for Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet
24:57 Encouragement and Coaching
28:06 Conclusion and Call to Action

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, Dr. Lenz introduces Donna Meyer, a seasoned registered nurse and lifestyle medicine practitioner with over 25 years of experience. Donna shares her personal and professional journey towards adopting a whole food plant-based diet. She discusses her significant weight loss, improved health metrics, and the newfound energy she experienced after transitioning to this lifestyle. Donna also sheds light on the challenges and misconceptions people face when making such dietary changes, emphasizing the importance of support systems and incremental adjustments. With practical advice and inspiring insights, this episode explores how lifestyle medicine can lead to profound health transformations.

00:00 Introduction to Donna Meyer
01:20 Donna's Personal Health Journey
02:54 Challenges in Traditional Healthcare
05:53 Discovering Lifestyle Medicine
07:15 Implementing Whole Food Plant-Based Diet
14:36 Overcoming Barriers to Healthy Eating
17:15 Social Challenges and Support
22:55 Initial Results and Continued Learning
25:47 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode of the 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' podcast, Dr. Michael Lenz discusses ADHD with Dr. Andrew Cutler, focusing on medication use from teens to twenties and associated challenges. They delve into the impact of ADHD on self-observation and judgment, comorbid conditions, and the importance of anticipatory guidance. The conversation highlights the value of individualized treatment, ADHD coaching, and the nuances of ADHD and bipolar disorder co-existence. Personal anecdotes underscore the transformative effect of proper ADHD treatment. Resources like ADHD coaching and dietitian referrals are emphasized as part of a holistic approach.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Host
00:17 Exploring ADHD: Medication, Misdiagnosis, and Treatment
01:14 The Challenges of ADHD Medication in Transition Ages
02:28 Understanding ADHD's Impact and Treatment Approaches
03:27 The Importance of Anticipatory Guidance and Family History in ADHD
05:10 The Evolution of ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment
08:01 Personal Journey into Psychiatry and ADHD Research
11:31 The Complexities of ADHD, Autism, and Bipolar Disorder
20:42 The Power of ADHD Treatment: Real-life Success Stories
26:39 The Role of ADHD Coaching and Resources
29:14 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Debunking Myths and Addressing Realities: A Comprehensive Look at ADHD

Join us this week on 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' as Dr. Michael Lenz hosts special guest Dr. Andrew Cutler, a distinguished psychiatrist . They discuss the evolution of ADHD understanding and treatment, challenging common myths and emphasizing its genetic neuropsychiatric nature. Dr. Cutler highlights the strengths of individuals with ADHD, such as creativity and problem-solving skills, and explores its relationship with other health conditions. They emphasize the importance of a holistic treatment approach, combining lifestyle changes, medication, and support for better outcomes. Tune in for insights into ADHD, its under-diagnosis, and effective management strategies.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Conquering Fibromyalgia
00:28 Special Guest Introduction: Dr. Andrew Cutler's Journey
02:36 Unveiling ADHD: Myths, Insights, and Realities
07:00 ADHD and Its Complex Intersections with Other Conditions
15:03 The Genetic Nature of ADHD and the Importance of Treatment
16:01 Lifestyle Medicine and ADHD: A Holistic Approach
18:14 Addressing Myths and Misunderstandings in ADHD Treatment
27:49 Personal Identity and ADHD: Navigating Self-Esteem and Potential
30:04 Summary and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this third part of an interview series, Donna Henderson, a neuropsychologist and coauthor of an autism guide, shares her expertise on diagnosing autism, handling neuro crashes, and the importance of understanding neurotypes. Henderson discusses the challenges faced by those with invisible illnesses, the significance of re-framing autism behaviors, and offers valuable advice for clinicians, parents, and individuals who suspect they may be autistic. The conversation also touches on the impact of late diagnosis and the importance of being brave and curious as a clinician. Henderson highlights the value of her books and upcoming webinars in providing in-depth knowledge and support for both clinicians and the general public.

00:00 Introduction to Donna Henderson and Her Work
00:26 Understanding Neuro Crashes and Meltdowns
03:20 Parenting Neurodivergent Children
04:15 Personal Stories and Family Dynamics
06:01 Reframing Sensory Sensitivities
07:32 The Importance of Cross Neurotype Communication
09:56 Late Diagnosis and Emotional Impact
13:15 Donna Henderson's Books and Resources
20:43 Words of Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In the second part of the interview with neuropsychologist Donna Henderson, co-author of 'Is it Autism?', discussions focus on the complexities of diagnosing autism and its overlap with chronic pain conditions. Henderson emphasizes the need for more clinicians to be adept at recognizing autism, particularly due to long waiting lists for specialists. She highlights the importance of contextual understanding and the pitfalls of misdiagnosis, including how autistic traits can be mistaken for negative personality traits. The episode also addresses the concept of neurocrash and autistic burnout, presenting practical advice for clinicians to better support their neurodivergent patients.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview with Donna Henderson
00:37 The Challenge of Diagnosing Autism in Adults
02:06 The Role of Clinicians in Autism Diagnosis
04:37 Misdiagnosis and the Importance of Understanding Autism
06:54 Autistic Traits and Misunderstandings
22:40 Neurocrash and Autistic Burnout
26:29 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode of the 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' podcast, Dr. Donna Henderson, a neuropsychologist and co-author of 'Is it Autism?' joins to discuss autism and its intersection with chronic pain conditions. Dr. Henderson emphasizes the importance of understanding both external and internal symptoms of autism, especially in cases where individuals mask their traits. The conversation delves into the evolving understanding of autism, the challenges faced by those who camouflage their symptoms, and the necessity of recognizing autism beyond observable behaviors. Dr. Henderson also shares her personal journey and professional insights, providing valuable perspectives for clinicians, patients, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of autism.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
00:54 Dr. Donna Henderson's Background and Expertise
02:51 Journey to Understanding Autism
07:13 The Importance of Diagnosis and Self-Understanding
11:33 Challenges in Diagnosing Autism
17:04 Social Interest vs. Social Energy
24:39 State of Autism and Future Directions
29:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In the final episode of a three-part series, the Conquering Fibromyalgia Podcast delves into the life of artist Frida Kahlo, who lived with fibromyalgia and other chronic pain syndromes. This episode explores a particularly challenging period in Kahlo’s life marked by her divorce from Diego Rivera, her relentless pursuit of art despite worsening health, and her profound emotional and physical suffering. It highlights Kahlo's ability to convert her pain into powerful artistic expressions and examines her struggles with surgeries, relentless pain, emotional distress, and eventual decline. The episode emphasizes the connection between suffering and creativity, portraying Kahlo as a figure of resilience who transformed her agony into enduring art.

00:00 Introduction to Frida Kahlo's Resilient Life
00:39 Frida's Turbulent Marriage and Artistic Expression
01:23 The Depths of Frida's Pain and Artistic Metaphors
03:48 Frida's Struggles with Chronic Pain and Medical Misdiagnoses
09:30 Frida's Enduring Spirit and Final Years
20:12 Frida's Lasting Legacy and Final Reflections
24:29 Conclusion 

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, delve into the tumultuous life of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who struggled with chronic illnesses, including fibromyalgia, and complex personal relationships. The episode explores her marriage to Diego Rivera, her health issues and miscarriages, her dedication to art despite immense physical and emotional pain, and the profound resilience she exhibited throughout her life. Through her vivid works, Frida transformed her suffering into masterpieces that continue to resonate. This episode highlights the strength needed to find beauty amid despair and the role of creativity in coping with chronic pain.

00:00 Introduction
00:43 Frida and Diego: A Tumultuous Marriage
02:40 Frida's Health Struggles and Friendships
04:03 Pregnancy and Heartbreak
08:52 Art as a Reflection of Pain
10:23 Frida's Resilience and Creativity
14:41 Frida's Later Years and Decline
19:48 Conclusion and Legacy

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Exploring Frida Kahlo's Battle with Fibromyalgia: Part 1

In this episode of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast,' Dr. Michael Lenz takes a deep dive into the life of Frida Kahlo. Known for her vibrant and emotionally raw artwork, Kahlo endured a lifetime of pain, likely linked to conditions like fibromyalgia. The episode explores her early years, the traumatic accident that significantly shaped her life and art, and her use of creativity as a coping mechanism. Kahlo's story serves as a beacon of resilience, providing insights and empathy for those living with chronic pain.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:25 Exploring Frida Kahlo's Life and Pain
00:46 Understanding Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain
04:29 Frida Kahlo's Early Life and Struggles
11:54 The Devastating Accident
16:19 Frida's Artistic Journey and Resilience
19:23 Conclusion and Next Steps

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Disorder? In-Depth Review and Analysis

In this episode, we explore whether fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disorder, discussing a comprehensive review published in August 2023 by Dr. Daniel Clauw and other experts. The episode covers the multifaceted nature of fibromyalgia, including its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, similarities to other conditions, and the roles of cognitive, emotional, and inflammatory factors. It also dives into whether the recognition of low grade inflammation in many chronic health conditions like diabetes, Alzheimer's, osteoarthritis and coronary artery disease can be extrapolated to fibromyalgia using a mouse study looking at antibodies when an animal model of fibromyalgia has never been developed. 

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Autoimmune Disorders
00:46 Understanding Fibromyalgia: Symptoms and Prevalence
01:45 Challenges in Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
02:35 The Reality of Fibromyalgia: Scientific Evidence
02:53 The Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual_Environmental Model of Pain
05:31 The Role of Neuroinflammation and Gut Health
10:35 Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Disease?
14:14 Fibromyalgia is not an Autoimmune disease
23:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Managing POTS: Insights and Treatments with Dr. Jeffrey Boris

In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a pediatric cardiologist, delves into treatments for POTS, including specific medications and non-pharmacologic interventions. The discussion covers the roles of Pyridostigmine, IV saline infusions, fluid and salt intake, and stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. Dr. Boris emphasizes the importance of personalized care and highlights the complexities of POTS symptoms, noting gender-specific differences and the significance of premenstrual symptom variations. The necessity of education, social support, and nuanced medical approaches is also stressed, offering hope and guidance for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.

00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:36 Medications for POTS
02:57 IV Saline Therapy
07:18 Fluid and Salt Intake
10:34 Caffeine and Sports Drinks
11:54 Methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine for Cognitive Dysfunction
13:58 Long-Term Outcomes Study
17:11 Sex Differences in POTS
21:48 Hope and Support for POTS Patients
24:15 Telemedicine Practice and Services
29:46 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, we delve into POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Our special guest, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a seasoned pediatric cardiologist, shares his expertise on POTS, including its diagnosis, common triggers, symptoms, and multifaceted treatment approaches. The discussion includes Dr. Boris's journey into treating POTS, the challenges in diagnosing it, and the need for more comprehensive research and funding. This conversation also highlights the parallels with fibromyalgia and emphasizes the importance of individualized care for patients.

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Conditions
00:35 Meet Dr. Jeffrey Boris: Pediatric Cardiologist
01:56 Dr. Boris' Journey into POTS
04:28 Understanding POTS: History and Definition
09:29 Challenges in Diagnosing POTS
14:00 Triggers and Symptoms of POTS
19:07 Managing POTS: Approaches and Treatments
26:26 Research and Future Directions in POTS
33:54 Conclusion and Summary

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In the second part of the conversation with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist specializing in autism, we delve deeper into autistic burnout, exploring triggers such as life transitions, masking, and sensory overwhelm. Megan  explains that burnout arises when stressors exceed coping abilities and offers self-help tips for managing an autistic style brain and nervous system. She emphasizes the importance of sensory self-care, recognizing and understanding one's neurodivergence, and proper screening by healthcare providers. The discussion also includes insights from her book, 'Self Care for Autistic People,' and advice for clinicians, loved ones, and individuals living with autism or ADHD.

00:00 Introduction and Recap
00:35 Understanding Autistic Burnout
02:03 Triggers and Vulnerabilities
05:03 Sensory Self-Care and Regulation
09:00 Challenges and Misdiagnoses
14:18 Empowerment Through Diagnosis
16:59 Self-Care for Autistic Individuals
24:23 Final Thoughts and Resources

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this first part of a two-part interview, we delve into the concept of autistic burnout with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist and neurodivergent advocate. Dr. Neff shares her personal journey discovering her autism after her daughter's diagnosis and discusses the signs and misdiagnosis risks associated with autistic burnout. Highlighting the overlaps with other conditions like bipolar disorder, she emphasizes the importance of proper assessment and a balanced approach in diagnostic practices. Stay tuned next week for the continuation of this insightful conversation.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series
00:23 Listener's Story: A Parent's Struggle
00:56 Understanding Autism and Interoception
01:48 Introducing Dr. Megan Neff
02:27 Dr. Neff's Professional Journey
03:50 Challenges in Autism Diagnosis
04:42 The Importance of Proper Assessment
06:02 Dr. Neff's Background and Insights
07:54 The Zigzag Path to Autism Awareness
20:06 Autistic Burnout Explained
24:25 Misdiagnosis and Functional Assessments
32:01 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Understanding Lifestyle Medicine and Its Impact on Chronic Conditions

This episode commemorates the three-year anniversary of the podcast hosted by Dr. Michael Lenz, a pediatrician, internal medicine physician, clinical lipidologist, and author of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia.' He explores the concept of lifestyle medicine, emphasizing its principles like whole food plant-based diets, regular physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social connections. He contrasts lifestyle medicine with other medical practices like allopathic, preventive, functional, and integrative medicine. Michael also discusses the chronic health conditions affected by lifestyle choices, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and autoimmune diseases. The episode highlights significant statistical findings and discusses the importance of patient participation in lifestyle changes to improve overall health and well-being.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:26 Understanding Fibromyalgia
00:59 Introduction to Lifestyle Medicine
02:40 Comparing Medical Approaches
06:14 The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
07:45 Impact of Lifestyle on Chronic Diseases
13:18 Case Studies and Real-Life Examples
19:00 The Role of Social Connections
21:17 Success Stories and Clinical Evidence
26:44 Implementing Lifestyle Medicine
29:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Fibromyalgia and Magnesium: Exploring the Evidence and Insights

In this episode of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia,' hosted by Dr. Michael Lenz, we delve into a literature review on magnesium and its potential impact on fibromyalgia. Dr. Lenz addresses a listener's question regarding the relationship between chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, suggesting that these conditions may be variations of the same syndrome. The episode includes an in-depth review of studies investigating the correlation between magnesium levels and fibromyalgia, exploring how different forms of magnesium supplementation might affect clinical parameters. Key findings show mixed results, highlighting the complex and inconsistent nature of magnesium's role in fibromyalgia. Dr. Lenz also discusses the challenges of accurately measuring magnesium status and the importance of placebo-controlled trials in understanding the true impact of magnesium on fibromyalgia symptoms.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:35 Listener Question: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome vs. Fibromyalgia
01:08 Understanding Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
03:51 Magnesium and Fibromyalgia: An Overview
10:41 Clinical Studies on Magnesium and Fibromyalgia
19:26 Discussion and Conclusion
20:16 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

In this episode, Dr. Michael Lenz, a seasoned pediatrician and internist, resumes his conversation with clinical psychologist Dr. Laurie Dos Santos. They delve into the complexities of supporting individuals with chronic medical conditions such as POTS, Dysautonomia, and fibromyalgia. Dr. Dos Santos discusses her approach to group and individual therapy, the importance of validating patients' experiences, and the impact of these conditions on adolescents and their families. The episode highlights a significant study, "You Look Perfectly Healthy to Me" on the quality of life for youth with POTS, stressing the need for more research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advocacy. Dis Santos shares her insights on understanding the biopsychosocial framework of symptoms and offers hope and practical advice for those living with chronic illnesses.

00:00 Welcome Back to the Conversation with Dr. Lori Dosantos
00:23 Introduction to the Host and the Podcast's Mission
00:48 Resuming the Conversation: Group Therapy and State Reciprocity
03:09 Deep Dive into POTS: Understanding Through Research and Patient Stories
10:14 Collaborative Care: The Power of Interdisciplinary Teams
13:31 The Genetic and Familial Connections of Chronic Conditions
24:54 The Role of Therapy in Managing Chronic Illness
26:24 Closing Thoughts and How to Reach Out for Support

Click here for the YouTube Channel 

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope.  If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Understanding and Supporting Young Adults with Chronic Health Conditions

In this episode, Dr. Michael Lenz hosts Dr. Laurie Dos Santos, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with adolescents and young adults. Dr. Dos Santos discusses her journey into psychology, her experience in addressing complex medical and mental health conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and the importance of building strong relationships with clients. She emphasizes the significance of validation and support, and shares insights on managing chronic illness through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Dr. Dos Santos also highlights the value of support groups and her work with Evolvin Therapy and Consulting, which offers virtual services to clients across 42 states.

00:00 Meet Dr. Lori Dos Santos: A Beacon of Hope for Young Adults
01:56 Introducing Your Host: Dr. Michael Lenz
02:27 Dr. Dos Santos' Journey into Psychology and Specialization
05:32 Understanding and Empathizing with Patients' Struggles
07:31 The Power of Support Groups in Healing
08:25 Navigating the Challenges of Invisible Illnesses
17:28 Effective Approaches for Managing Invisible Illnesses
24:47 Expanding Access to Mental Health Care with Evolvin Therapy
26:44 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead