Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast

Dr. Michael Lenz MD
  • 4.8 (72)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. In the exam room, time is limited. But the need for understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia is vast. That’s why I created this space: to offer deeper education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told that fibromyalgia "isn’t real'" or that it’s "all in your head," I want you to know: I see you. I believe you. And you're not alone. This podcast is here to affirm what you’ve lived through and to explain the science behind what you’re experiencing. Whether you're living with fibromyalgia, supporting someone who is, or a healthcare professional seeking to better serve your patients, I hope you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insight drawn from my 28+ years as a medical doctor, pediatrician, internist, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist. Together, let’s bring compassion and clarity to a condition that’s too often misunderstood—and help make the invisible, visible. You can learn more at www.conqueringyourfibromyalgia.com.

  1. Jun 19

    When Autism Hides ADHD: 6 Ways It Causes Chronic Pain

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

  2. Jun 18

    Navigating the New 2025 Guidelines: A Parents Guide to Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

  3. Jun 17

    Is it Depression or Autistic Burnout? Why CBT Fails

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

  4. May 28

    April: A World Through Neurodiversity

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

  5. May 27

    POTS Guidelines: Missing the Bigger Picture

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

  6. May 25

    The Cholesterol Revolution: New Preventive Rules

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

  7. May 17

    Rethinking Mind Mody Medicine for Neurodivergent Individuals

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

  8. May 16

    Why this OB GYN left medicine to become an ADHD coach

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 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...

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4.8
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About

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. In the exam room, time is limited. But the need for understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia is vast. That’s why I created this space: to offer deeper education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told that fibromyalgia "isn’t real'" or that it’s "all in your head," I want you to know: I see you. I believe you. And you're not alone. This podcast is here to affirm what you’ve lived through and to explain the science behind what you’re experiencing. Whether you're living with fibromyalgia, supporting someone who is, or a healthcare professional seeking to better serve your patients, I hope you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insight drawn from my 28+ years as a medical doctor, pediatrician, internist, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist. Together, let’s bring compassion and clarity to a condition that’s too often misunderstood—and help make the invisible, visible. You can learn more at www.conqueringyourfibromyalgia.com.

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