

Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast
Dr. Michael Lenz MD
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 13, 2023 • 32min
Ep. 115 Finding Hope Amidst Chronic Back Pain: A Conversation with Jory Pradjenski. Part 1
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Have you ever wondered how someone lives and thrives in the face of chronic pain? Have you ever thought what difference hope could make in a world filled with pain and suffering? Meet Jory Pradjenski, a survivor and beacon of hope in the world of chronic pain. Jory shares his journey, battling chronic pain through multiple back surgeries and a serious concussion. His inspiring narrative brings to light the often-overlooked stigmatization of chronic pain while showcasing the importance of hope in the recovery process.This episode doesn't just stop at Jory’s personal story. We delve deeper into the importance of robust support systems for those embarking on a similar struggle. Jory, the founder of Hope Instilled, a non-profit organization, shares his mission to provide valuable resources and information to help individuals navigate their paths with chronic pain. His story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of persistence and hope. Whether you're directly affected by chronic pain or looking to lend a supportive hand to someone who does, this enlightening conversation with Jory Pradjinski is a must-listen.You can get a free ticket to the Every1Ine Wellness and Abilities Fair as a listener of this podcast by using the promo code HOPE.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discusse International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Sep 6, 2023 • 35min
Ep 114 Striking a Chord: The Role of Music. Dale's Fibromyalgia Journey Part 3
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions What role does performing music play for some with fibromyalgia? You will learn about the impact it can have in this week's episode. Tapping into the creative process of playing the guitar, composing music, and building a guitar have been helpful for Dale and many others. If you struggle with fibromyalgia and want to learn about how the creative process can be therapy for you, then this episode will inspire you or remind you about another way to live better with fibromyalgia and other invisible illnesses. But there's more to this conversation. This episode delves into the correlation between creativity and fibromyalgia, underscoring the importance of creative pursuits for mental and physical well-being. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more. International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Aug 30, 2023 • 31min
Ep 113 Finding Solace in Creativity: Photography.Dale's Journey with Fibromyalgia. Part 2
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Ever wondered what it's like to live with an invisible illness that's barely understood? Our guest, Dale, offers a raw and deeply enlightening perspective of managing life with fibromyalgia. We journey with him through his struggles, exploring this condition's historical context and its evolving definitions over generations. Dale's story emphasizes the power of creativity and how he's found solace and comfort with photography to cope with the challenges presented by fibromyalgia, which highlights the positive impact creating music can have on fibromyalgia.Dale shares his family history and opens up about how his creativity has become a lifeline for him. With elements including engaging in mindful meditation, incorporating exercise, and using external stimuli as distractions, he sheds light on his comprehensive approach to managing his condition. Listen in as we delve into the unseen battles of living with fibromyalgia and how Dale's coping strategies with photography are one of the creative arts that should be offered to others grappling with similar challenges.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more. International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Aug 23, 2023 • 36min
Ep 112 The Creative Arts as Medicine: Dale's Fibromyalgia Journey Part 1
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Today, we're honored to bring you a conversation with Dale, a brave soul journeying through life with fibromyalgia. Hailing from the UK, he candidly shares his path to diagnosis, shedding light on the sudden onset of debilitating symptoms - physical and mental exhaustion, dizziness, confusion, and chronic fatigue. Dale navigates us through his post-diagnosis life, exploring his experiences with various treatments and the healthcare system.Imagine waking up one morning feeling utterly drained, and it doesn't go away. That's what Dale experienced in September 2019. Our conversation dives into his three-year journey toward a fibromyalgia diagnosis and how creativity became his solace amidst the storm. His passion for music and photography provided an outlet for expression and healing. Further reflection reveals clues early in his life that likely increased his risk of developing fibromyalgia. Dale shares his strategies. It is important to hear Dale's story. Join us as we uncover Dale's journey, offering hope and validation to others facing similar trials.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more. International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Aug 16, 2023 • 29min
Ep 111 "Patients like Linda." What was it like to care for patients with fibromyalgia 20 years ago through the eyes of a neurologist. 2 year anniversary episode
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions "Patients like Linda" was a perspective piece in JAMA in 2003 written by Dr. Steven Ringel, a now-retired neuromuscular specialist. This is a fitting piece, as patients like Linda inspired me to learn more about this perplexing invisible illness. I have recognized the need for an evidence-based holistic approach leading me to write a book and start a podcast. If you want to gain some transparent insights into the mindset many physicians have regarding fibromyalgia, this episode is for you.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more. International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Aug 9, 2023 • 30min
Ep. 110 Wrapping up Neurasthenia. Understand the roles Conventional and Lifestyle Medicine play and the draw of Functional Medicine. Part 6
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Living with fibromyalgia or any invisible illness is no easy feat. Despite the leaps in medical advancements, those who grapple with these conditions can often feel misunderstood and underrepresented. This episode unravels the harrowing realities of living with these illnesses, drawing stark parallels between the treatment of Neurasthenia, a condition known a century ago, and the current approach to fibromyalgia. We wrap up the series this week. Learn about the critical need for a holistic approach that combines medical management with a biopsychosocial and spiritual perspective. We delve into the role of conventional and lifestyle medicine and alternative options like functional medicine.But the intrigue doesn't stop there! We illuminate the intricate dance between neurological, physiological, and environmental factors that contribute to invisible illnesses like fibromyalgia. We unravel the hypervigilant awareness of stimuli by those afflicted and the consequences it can bring. You will learn some of the human body's intricate design, and how slight shifts can lead to suffering. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to broaden their understanding of fibromyalgia and other invisible illnesses.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Aug 2, 2023 • 47min
Ep 109 Why your stomach hurts as seen through the eyes of compassionate physicians over 100 years ago? Neurasthenia Gastrica Part 5
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions What if the secret to understanding chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome lay tucked within the historical pages of medical literature? Journey alongside us as we unravel the intricate narrative of neurasthenia, a condition that has fascinated medical minds between 90-150 years ago. Our exploration will chart a course through the clinical descriptions, pathophysiological theories, and therapeutic recommendations from the work of pioneers who shed light on the concept of neurasthenia gastrica, Your curiosity will be piqued as we dissect historical theories of how nerve centers might interact between the brain and gut producing distressful symptoms and deepening our understanding of the human body’s complex nervous systems.But that's not all. We’ll take this exploration a step further, dissecting gastric neurasthenia and opening up a discussion about available modern treatment options. You'll learn about the condition’s prevalence among soldiers coping with shell shock, now called PTSD, and the intriguing theories surrounding its physical causes. You'll hear about the importance of diet, lifestyle, and the role they play in managing chronic conditions. Whether you're a seasoned medical professional or someone dealing with these conditions, we promise this episode will equip you with a newfound understanding of these complex disorders. You'll leave with the tools and knowledge to foster a healthier future. So, buckle up and get ready for an enlightening journey into the depths of neurasthenia and gut-brain interaction.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the au International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Joy LenzFibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start. Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Jul 26, 2023 • 37min
Ep 108 Past Meets Present: How Neurasthenia Illnesses Inform Contemporary Medicine Part 4
Explore historical cases of neurasthenia and their relevance to contemporary medicine. Discuss the impact of environmental conditions on illness. Learn about a lawyer whose lifestyle led to severe neurasthenia. Uncover lythaemic neurasthenia associated with overindulgence. Highlight the importance of a healthy diet, rest, and therapeutic lifestyle interventions.

Jul 19, 2023 • 33min
Ep. 107 Neurasthenia: Uncovering Parallels with Today's Invisible Illnesses Part 3
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Are you familiar with Neurasthenia? We are taking a journey back in time, viewing the parallels between this illness from over a century ago and the invisible illnesses of today. You will be astounded at its striking resemblance with conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, POTS, migraines, and irritable bowel syndrome. This diagnosis was common and accepted as a legitimate, respected illness. Renowned intellectuals like Charles Darwin, George Elliot, Rousseau, Montaigne, Francis Bacon, Kant, and Sigmund Freud suffered from it.As we cast our gaze backward in time, we get a real sense of appreciation for the advances of modern medicine. However, let's not deceive ourselves. Even in this age, recognizing the same conditions as real conditions deserving of compassionate care with the modern names of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome remains an uphill battle. This episode promises to be a rich tapestry of medical history, empathy, and a deeper understanding of invisible illnesses, so don't miss it.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more.Support the showWhen 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.* ...

Jul 12, 2023 • 35min
Ep 106 The Lost Condition: Neurasthenia's Vanishing Act in Medical History. Cracking a Cold Case. A needed historical perspective of Invisible Illnesses. Part 2
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Why did neurasthenia, a once-prevalent condition, fall by the wayside as medical advancements focused on cancer, infectious diseases, and other tangible ailments? Join me, Dr. Michael Lenz, in this riveting exploration of our medical history as we uncover the cold case of neurasthenia and appreciate the transformative advances in modern medicine. Trace the fascinating development of x-rays, laboratory testing, antibiotics, vaccines, and more, while understanding why neurasthenia interest disappeared.Discover the spirited debates between neurologists and surgical gynecologists. Delve into the mind-body connection, the role of psychotropic drugs in treating schizophrenia, and the biosocial-spiritual model of understanding. Reflect on the cultural shifts that appeared to contribute to the rise in neurasthenia. Whether you're grappling with a hidden illness, offering support to a loved one, or working in healthcare, this episode is an enlightening and insightful resource.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator. If you have questions, advice, or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellenz@gmail.com. You can also share a recording of your question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more. International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Support the showWhen 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.* ...