Getting an autoimmune disease diagnosis can feel like solving a medical mystery. In this powerful interview, we explore why so many people struggle for years before finally receiving answers. From vague symptoms and misdiagnoses to medical gaslighting and gaps in conventional testing, we break down the challenges of getting properly diagnosed—and what you can do to advocate for yourself along the way. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or overlooked by the healthcare system, this episode is for you. I talk with a medical expert on the science of autoimmune disease diagnosis about why doctors can have such a hard time with autoimmune disease diagnoses.

Tyler O’Malley serves as Associate VP of Clinical Affairs & Market Access at Exagen Inc., a leader in autoimmune testing solutions. In his role, he oversees clinical trials, bioinformatics, and medical policy development for Exagen’s current diagnostic portfolio and pipeline of proprietary solutions.

With more than a decade of experience, O’Malley has contributed to more than a dozen clinical trials, focusing on clinical validity and utility evidence for autoimmune diagnostics. His expertise is widely recognized, with numerous publications in esteemed peer-reviewed journals. Notably, he is the first author of one of the largest clinical utility studies in lupus diagnostics.

O'Malley graduated from Georgia Gwinnett College with a Bachelor of Science in biology, concentrating in biochemistry. His eleven-year career in Research and Development and Medical Affairs encompassed medical science education, assay development, and clinical research coordination.

http://exagen.com

Website for this episode: http://autoimmunerehab.com

Youtube channel: https://youtube.com/c/annalaurabrownhealthcoach

In this solo episode, I’m opening up about what life looks like after receiving an autoimmune diagnosis. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been living with chronic illness for years, this conversation is for you. I’ll walk you through the emotional rollercoaster that comes after the doctor’s visit—grief, confusion, fear—and how I found a path toward empowerment, healing, and hope. I’ll also share practical strategies that helped me shift from survival mode to truly thriving, including: ✨ Redefining your identity beyond your diagnosis ✨ Setting boundaries and learning to say no without guilt ✨ Embracing holistic wellness practices that actually help ✨ Finding community and support when you feel alone Your diagnosis doesn’t define you—it’s just one chapter in your story. Tune in for encouragement, real talk, and a gentle reminder that healing is possible.

Website for this podcast: http://autoimmunerehab.com

Youtube channel: https://youtube.com/c/annalaurabrownhealthcoach

Follow me on instagram: https://instagram.com/annalaurabrownwellness

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the connection between emotional pain and chronic illness. Jed Brotherson shares his raw and eye-opening journey of discovering that unresolved emotional trauma was fueling his autoimmune condition. After years of chasing physical treatments and temporary fixes, Jed hit a breaking point—and that’s when everything changed. You’ll hear how dissatisfaction with his career, and years of emotional numbing manifested in physical symptoms his doctors couldn’t explain. Jed opens up about the turning point when he finally acknowledged his pain, began processing it, and took the first steps toward true healing—not just in his body, but in his soul. If you’ve ever wondered whether your emotional health could be affecting your autoimmune symptoms, this episode is a must-listen.

Jed Brotherson is a father, podcaster, and transformational coach who helps people uncover the root cause of their discontent in under 55 days—so they can finally live the life they were meant for. His work is grounded in lived experience, having navigated years of deep inner conflict and emotional conditioning that silenced his true voice. Today, Jed brings compassion, clarity, and unconventional tools to help others break free from old patterns and step fully into their own power.

Free guide understanding 3 reasons you struggle with discontent. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tebCn_0KDRoi3rUaOO6VJjw4lIwIiIbd2pOiwUhQCx8/edit?usp=drivesdk

Website for this podcast with recommendations and free stuff. http://autoimmunerehab.com

Follow me on instagram: https://instagram.com/annalaurabrownwellness

Youtube channel: https://youtube.com/c/annalaurabrownhealthcoach