Ep 227 Chasing Truth in the Wellness Wild West with Scott Carney

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

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

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...