
Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast
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.
Latest episodes

Aug 31, 2022 • 30min
Ep. 58 Contemplating Pain, Suffering, and Meaning in Life. Part 1 of the interview with Luke Thompson
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Living with fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions can be extremely challenging. This series discusses finding meaning in life with Luke Thompson, a philosophy professor and pastor, as he shares wisdom and insights into the problems of pain and suffering. Medical doctors and scientists often don't talk about beliefs, but it affects everybody, and taking a whole-person approach to caring for others includes not only the body but also the mind and faith/spirituality. As the late George Foster Wallace wrote, "everybody worships something."Luke can be reached through his email, l.george.thompson@gmail.com if you have any questions. You can get a copy of his book here.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 to 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 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. If you have a question, it is likely that hundreds of others have the same question. You can also go to 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.* ...

Aug 24, 2022 • 29min
Ep.57 Migraines Part 3. A Holistic Approach
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions What is the impact of a comprehensive approach to migraines? In part 3 of the conversation with Dr. Cheyette, a pediatric neurologist, you will learn about the powerful effect of bridging the best of medical management and lifestyle medicine. You will learn that the cost savings to the patient, family, and society are tremendous. You will also learn hopeful solutions to tackle migraines.You can learn more about Dr. Cheyette through her website.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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 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. If you have a question, it is likely that hundreds of others have the same question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more through blogs that Dr. Lenz has done on fibromyalgia. Remember this podcast is meant for informational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be and should NOT be interpreted as medical advice for any medical condition and any individual. It is also not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. The content presented is provided as a starting point in your research and a helpful guide when 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.* ...

Aug 17, 2022 • 28min
Ep.56 Migraines: Upon Further Consideration. Part 2 of the Conversation with Dr. Chayette, A Pediatric Neurologist.
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This week's episode discusses concussions and their connection with migraines and ADHD.Migraines fall under the umbrella of fibromyalgia. Both involve problems in how the brain and central nervous system process stimuli. You are sure to gain greater insight into both of these. You can learn more about Dr. Cheyette through her website.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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. Click here for the blog post on this episode which includes the show notes.If you have questions 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. If you have a question, it is likely that hundreds of others have the same question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more through blogs that Dr. Lenz has done on fibromyalgia. Remember this podcast is meant for informational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be and should NOT be interpreted as medical advice for any medical condition and any individual. It is also not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. The content presented is pro 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.* ...

Aug 10, 2022 • 31min
Ep.55 Migraines and ADHD. Part 1 of the Conversation with Dr. Cheyette, a Pediatric Neurologist.
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This is the first of a 3 part conversation with Dr. Cheyette, a pediatric neurologist and author with a special interest in migraines and ADHD. Migraines fall under the umbrella of fibromyalgia. Both involve problems in how the brain and central nervous system process stimuli. You are sure to gain greater insight into both of these. You can learn more about Dr. Cheyette through her website.Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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. Click here for the blog post based on this episode including show notes.If you have questions 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. If you have a question, it is likely that hundreds of others have the same question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more through blogs that Dr. Lenz has done on fibromyalgia. Remember this podcast is meant for informational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be and should NOT be interpreted as medical advice for any medical condition and any individual. It is also not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Th 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.* ...

Aug 3, 2022 • 26min
Ep. 54 Margaret's Final Days. Wrapping up her tragic Fibromyalgia Journey
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Many people with fibromyalgia have tremendous frustration and disappointment in the medical system. The reasons include delay in diagnosis and little hope for improvement when it is finally diagnosed. Sadly, Margaret was never diagnosed. Only through a retrospective look at her life can the connections be made. Hopefully, her story will help physicians be more vigilant in recognizing their patients struggling with fibromyalgia. With better education and comprehensive management lives of those with fibromyalgia can improve.This final episode shares the impact her book had during Europe in World War II, her tragic ending, and her faith and love of the Psalms. As a doctor passionate about helping those struggling, I can't help wanting to reach back in time and sit down with Margaret in my clinic. I would have enjoyed spending hours and frequent follow-up visits discussing her struggles and working to lessen her mysterious pains, brain fog, and fatigue. Her history gives insight into the limitations of medicine in the first half of the 20th century. Sadly, current sufferers with fibromyalgia will likely find that they will fit somewhere on the spectrum from never receiving a correct diagnosis and proper education and treatment to getting up-to-date education and comprehensive care. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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 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 27, 2022 • 36min
Ep. 53 John's Heart Attack. Part 13 of the Gone with the Wind Saga
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Things went from bad to worse as Margaret's husband John had a myocardial infarction and heart failure. The deterioration in his health impacted Margaret similarly to before when caring for her father, but her own health was tenuous at best prior to John's sudden decline. This pushed her to the breaking point.Continue on the journey back in time listening to what it was like to have fibromyalgia and related problems 100 years ago. As a doctor passionate about helping those struggling, I can't help wanting to reach back in time and sit down with Margaret in my clinic. I would have enjoyed spending hours and frequent follow-up visits discussing her struggles and working to lessen her mysterious pains, brain fog, and fatigue. Her history gives insight into the limitations of medicine in the first half of the 20th century. Sadly, current sufferers with fibromyalgia will likely find that they will fit somewhere on the spectrum from never receiving a correct diagnosis and proper education and treatment to getting up-to-date education and comprehensive care. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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 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. If 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 20, 2022 • 28min
Ep. 52 Will spinal surgery cure her fibromyalgia? Part 12
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Margaret is seen at John's Hopkins research hospital in an attempt to find an explanation and cure. What they found was that her chronic symptoms were idiopathic except for a possible disc herniation. What happened? Listen to hear the rest of her heroic saga with fibromyalgia and related problems. Continue on the journey back in time listening to what it was like to have fibromyalgia and related problems 100 years ago. As a doctor passionate about helping those struggling, I can't help wanting to reach back in time and sit down with Margaret in my clinic. I would have enjoyed spending hours and frequent follow-up visits discussing her struggles and working to lessen her mysterious pains, brain fog, and fatigue. Her history gives insight into the limitations of medicine in the first half of the 20th century. Sadly, current sufferers with fibromyalgia will likely find that they will fit somewhere on the spectrum from never receiving a correct diagnosis and proper education and treatment to getting up-to-date education and comprehensive care. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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 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 qu 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 13, 2022 • 25min
Ep. 51 Success Goes to Margaret Mitchell's head along with Caregiver Fatigue. Part 11
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this week's episode, we hear about Margaret's success and then a sudden fall with the development of severe headaches. She also endured the heavy crosses of caring for her father who had prolonged care needs for years before he passed. Continue on the journey back in time listening to what it was like to have fibromyalgia and related problems 100 years ago. As a doctor passionate about helping those struggling, I can't help wanting to reach back in time and sit down with Margaret in my clinic. I would have enjoyed spending hours and frequent follow-up visits discussing her struggles and working to lessen her mysterious pains, brain fog, and fatigue. Her history gives insight into the limitations of medicine in the first half of the 20th century. Sadly, current sufferers with fibromyalgia will likely find that they will fit somewhere on the spectrum from never receiving a correct diagnosis and proper education and treatment to getting up-to-date education and comprehensive care. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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 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. If you have a question, it is likely that hundreds of others have the same question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more through blogs that Dr. Lenz has done on fibromyalgia. Remember this podcast is meant for informational purposes only. It 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 6, 2022 • 24min
Ep. 50 Success and Fear of Speeches. Gone With the Wind Part 10
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This week Margaret's book finally gets published. This success causes her problems. She has the task of giving speeches about her book but finds it very taxing on her causing pain. Continue on the journey back in time listening to what it was like to have fibromyalgia and related problems 100 years ago. As a doctor passionate about helping those struggling, I can't help wanting to reach back in time and sit down with Margaret in my clinic. I would have enjoyed spending hours and frequent follow-up visits discussing her struggles and working to lessen her mysterious pains, brain fog, and fatigue. Her history gives insight into the limitations of medicine in the first half of the 20th century. Sadly, current sufferers with fibromyalgia will likely find that they will fit somewhere on the spectrum from never receiving a correct diagnosis and proper education and treatment to getting up-to-date education and comprehensive care. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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 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. If you have a question, it is likely that hundreds of others have the same question. You can also go to Conquerinyourfibromyalgia.com to learn more through blogs that Dr. Lenz has done on fibromyalgia. Remember this podcast is meant for informational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be and should NOT be interpreted as me 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.* ...

Jun 29, 2022 • 31min
Ep. 49 Tonsillectomies and teeth extractions to treat Fibromyalgia? Gone with the Wind's story of Margaret Mitchell. Part 9
Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This week we discuss attempts to treat fibromyalgia 100 years ago. We look at the medical management of illness until the mid-1800s. You will hear about the 4 humors, the medical paradigm for understanding. With the advent of anesthesia and development of germ theory in the pre-antibiotic world, Margaret entered the medical establishment of her day.Continue on the journey back in time listening to what it was like to have fibromyalgia and related problems 100 years ago. As a doctor passionate about helping those struggling, I can't help wanting to reach back in time and sit down with Margaret in my clinic. I would have enjoyed spending hours and frequent follow-up visits discussing her struggles and working to lessen her mysterious pains, brain fog, and fatigue. Her history gives insight into the limitations of medicine in the first half of the 20th century. Sadly, current sufferers with fibromyalgia will likely find that they will fit somewhere on the spectrum from never receiving a correct diagnosis and proper education and treatment to getting up-to-date education and comprehensive care. Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist with an interest in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to 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 or topics you would like to have discussed on a future podcast, email Dr. Lenz at doctormichaellen 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.* ...