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...