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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

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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 Movin

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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

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 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. You’re not alone. 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 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*