The Self-Brain Surgery™ Podcast with Dr. Lee Warren

In this episode of the Self-Brain Surgery Podcast, Dr. Lee Warren hosts an insightful conversation with Jo Hargreaves, also known as the Faith-Filled Therapist.

Jo, a UK-based therapist, uniquely combines neuroscience and faith, guiding people back to scriptural truths to address life's struggles, including anxiety and depression. Dr. Warren and Jo discuss the intersection of science and faith, the role of the vagus nerve in mental health, and techniques like breath work and worship for emotional regulation.

They also touch on the importance of scripture in navigating mental health issues and the role of therapy...

In this special episode of the Dr. Lee Warren Self Brain Surgery podcast, Dr. Lee Warren celebrates the start of Miracle May, a month dedicated to recognizing the everyday miracles that surround us.

This episode features a discussion with Mark Batterson, a New York Times bestselling author, about his new book, A Million Little Miracles.

Batterson shares insights on the inherent miracles in our daily lives, from the micro-level wonders of quantum physics to the awe-inspiring creation of human life. Batterson provides an uplifting message, and emphasizes the importance of gratitude and...

Have you ever had a thought or feeling, and then you beat yourself up and say, "I shouldn't feel this way?"

If so, join me for this incredible conversation with Dr. Alison Cook, a therapist specializing in the integration of faith and psychology, to discuss her latest book, I Shouldn't Feel This Way.

We explore common feelings of guilt and self-blame, emphasizing the importance of 'thought biopsies' and self-reflection to better understand and manage emotions. Dr. Cook outlines her three-step process of naming, framing, and braving emotions, and shares...

In this episode, we explore the powerful concepts of selective attention, metacognition, and manual mode as tools for self brain surgery. We explain how these gifts can help us overcome life's challenges, reshape our thinking, and transform our lives. You'll learn about the significance of understanding and controlling your thoughts, and see biblical principles and modern neuroscience connecting to show how we can shift from automated responses to conscious decision-making, leading to better mental health and overall well-being.

Click here for the transcript

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome<...

In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery podcast, we have a powerful conversation with New York Times bestselling author Lee Strobel.

Lee is a former atheist turned Christian and New York Times bestselling author, to discuss his latest book, Seeing the Supernatural. The conversation delves into the existence of a realm beyond the physical world, investigating topics such as angels, demons, mystical dreams, and near-death experiences. Strobel, renowned for his investigative approach, shares compelling evidence and personal stories that challenge both skeptics and believers to reconsider the supernatural.

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In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery Podcast, we have an incredible conversation with author Angie Howell, a pediatric nurse and mother of eight with a remarkable story of faith and resilience.

Angie shares her emotional journey through an unexpected pregnancy during a tumultuous time in her life, her struggles with faith, and her daughter Jade's miraculous healing from a severe brain condition.

Angie also discusses her new book, Jewel of Heaven, which chronicles her experiences and the transformative power of prayer and faith. We explore the challenges...

In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery Podcast, Dr. Lee Warren hosts a special conversation with bestselling author Ian Morgan Cron about his new book, The Fix.

The discussion explores how the 12 Steps, widely known for aiding addiction recovery, can offer a pathway for transformation for anyone, even those who don't identify as being in recovery. Ian provides insights into how these steps aim to mend relationships with God, oneself, and others, and how they can be used as guardrails in our daily lives. The episode concludes with a detailed look at each...

In this episode, I speak with Erica Anderson, a writer, teacher, and thought leader, about her journey with alcohol and recovery. We discuss the societal pressures surrounding addiction, especially for women in Christian communities, and the need for open dialogue.

Erica shares insights from her upcoming book, Freely Sober: Rethinking Alcohol Through the Lens of Faith, advocating for a nuanced understanding of alcohol use. She also offers practical advice for aspiring writers on resilience and the publishing process. Our conversation emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling and fostering supportive communities around addiction and faith.<...

In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery podcast, we have a powerful, healing conversation with New York Times bestselling author Ann Voskamp.

We discuss the theme of suffering and how faith integrates with science and reason, especially through the lens of the Gospel of John. Ann's latest book, Loved to Life, is a 40-day journey that aims to deepen one's understanding of Jesus and how to live a Christian life.

Amid personal stories of suffering and resilience, such as my experience in Iraq and Ann's family challenges, the...

It's Action April!

Today, I want to encourage you to to align your efforts with your true calling and take decisive actions towards your goals.

We talk about the importance of focusing on meaningful tasks, eliminating unnecessary commitments, and managing one's thoughts to overcome fears and challenges. This episode will help you smash neuroscience and prayer, preparation, and strategic thinking to get after personal and spiritual growth.

Click here for the transcript

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update<...

In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery podcast, Dr. Lee Warren welcomes back J. Warner Wallace, America's leading cold case detective, to discuss his new collaborative graphic novel Case Files Vol.1, created with his son Jimmy. The novel blends true crime with Christian apologetics, focusing on the value of human life and exploring deep questions about faith. They also delve into the process of creating a graphic novel and discuss future volumes that will tackle other aspects of Christianity. The episode emphasizes the importance of grounding human value and morality in a Christian worldview and provides resources for...

Dr. Lee Warren hosts an engaging conversation with Steve Mesler, Olympic gold medalist and three-time U.S. Olympian. Steve shares his remarkable journey from being a track athlete in Florida to winning gold in bobsled at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. He discusses the physical and mental challenges he faced, including overcoming injuries and making pivotal decisions. Steve also highlights his transition to leadership roles, his involvement with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and founding Classroom Champions, an organization that connects athletes with schools to inspire and mentor students. This episode explores themes of resilience, goal-setting, and the emotional...

In this episode of the Self-Brain Surgery podcast, Dr. Lee Warren interviews Jill and Brad Sullivan, who share their poignant journey of losing their daughter, Hannah, to glioblastoma. Despite their immense grief, the Sullivans found purpose and hope by establishing While We're Waiting, a ministry providing retreats for bereaved parents across multiple states and internationally. They discuss the challenges of parenting a surviving child, the importance of faith, and how they managed to transform their loss into a legacy honoring Hannah. The conversation also touches upon Brad's near-fatal accident and the renewed sense of purpose it brought to their...

Get ready for an exciting conversation with author Laura L. Smith!

Laura discusses her new book Brave Woman, Mighty God, which highlights stories of 30 women from the Bible who, empowered by God, accomplished amazing feats. Laura shares her personal background of overcoming emotional abuse, the importance of prayer, and trusting God’s power. She also provides encouragement for aspiring writers and creators who face rejections and challenges. The episode aims to inspire listeners through powerful biblical examples and personal testimony, emphasizing the belief that everyone has the power within them to overcome life's challenges wi...

In this powerful episode, Dr. Lee Warren discusses the concept of transforming your life by changing the way you think about yourself. He introduces two powerful tools: a new self-brain surgery operation called 'Outside In Thinking' and a 'premortem analysis'. Through the podcast, Dr. Warren teaches listeners how to manage trauma, performance issues, and improve overall capabilities by adopting a new perspective. He encourages practical steps such as journaling and self-reflection to eliminate limiting stories and build a stronger mindset. The episode also highlights the importance of embracing guidance from faith and science to achieve personal transformation.

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In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren introduces Jenn Kautsch, the founder of Sober Sis, a community aimed at helping women reevaluate their relationship with alcohol. With a mission to offer an alternative to the 'wine o'clock' culture, Jenn shares her personal journey of choosing an alcohol-free lifestyle and creating a support network for like-minded women. Jenn discusses the concept of 'gray area drinking,' emphasizing the importance of curiosity, compassion, and self-awareness. The episode delves into the science behind alcohol's impact on the brain, the role of faith in Jenn's journey, and practical tips for those considering a sober...

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren introduces the concept for The School of Self-Brain Surgery™, discussing its benefits and techniques.

He shares personal anecdotes and listener stories to highlight how this method has changed lives. Dr. Warren outlines the forthcoming School of Self-Brain Surgery, detailing its structure, enrollment, and the blend of neuroscience and faith that underpins the method. He emphasizes the separation of mind and brain, debunks common lies we believe about ourselves, and explains the importance of becoming the 'surgeon' in managing our thoughts and emotions. The episode concludes with practical advice an...

In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery Podcast, Dr. Lee Warren delves into the power of observable, yet often overlooked, aspects of our behavior and decision-making processes. Inspired by a quote from Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Warren discusses a new approach called 'quantum decision-making.' This method merges modern neuroscience with faith, offering tools to make better decisions, improve prayer, and foster better interactions. Dr. Warren emphasizes the distinct roles of the brain and mind, suggesting that significant changes can be made by altering our focus and thoughts. The episode challenges listeners to move beyond deterministic thinking and embraces...

In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery Podcast, Dr. Lee Warren introduces listeners to The School of Self-Brain Surgery™, a new online residency program aimed at helping people change their minds to change their lives.

Dr. Warren discusses the foundational principles of self-brain surgery, including the distinction between the mind and the brain, and the common lies people believe that hinder personal transformation. He emphasizes the importance of taking command of one's thoughts and developing healthier mental habits to become healthier, feel better, and be happier.

He also sh...

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren explores how to achieve abundant living and overcome obstacles such as feeling stuck, anxious, or lost. He introduces the concept of the Diderot Effect, which highlights how acquiring new possessions can lead to an endless cycle of wanting more.

Dr. Warren shares a personal story about buying a tractor and needing multiple attachments, illustrating how this effect can manifest in daily life. He emphasizes that genuine change and happiness come from within and offers ten actionable rules for cultivating abundance in life. These rules include embracing healing, positive...

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren, a brain surgeon and advocate for integrating faith and science, delves into 'Theology Monday.' He discusses the importance of combining faith and science to address life's challenges and seek the truth. Dr. Warren emphasizes that when facing seemingly insurmountable problems, faith can offer the support science cannot. He explores how God routinely accomplishes the impossible and shares insights from Psalm 121 and Eugene Peterson's 'A Long Obedience in the Same Direction.' The episode encourages listeners to choose forward progress through footprints rather than creating monuments of defeat and reassures them that God...

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren discusses the high failure rate of New Year's resolutions by the third week of January and introduces the concept of 'approach drift'—a deviation from our intended goals and habits. Drawing parallels from surgical practices, he explains how small, consistent checks can help us stay on course. The episode covers the pathophysiology and pharmacology of self-brain surgery, offering practical advice on using thought discipline to create lasting change. Dr. Warren also highlights the importance of maintaining good habits, checking for drift regularly, and using re-uptake inhibitors in our thought processes. Sponsored segments include Ti...

Welcome to the first episode of our new War Stories series. This week, Dr. Lee Warren takes us back to 2004, sharing his experiences as a combat neurosurgeon deployed to the Iraq war. From personal challenges to professional fears, Dr. Warren explores the parallels between literal war and the battles we all face in life—whether they come as trauma, tragedy, or unexpected challenges.

He shares lessons on preparation, resilience, and how the process of self-brain surgery can help us recover, rebuild, and thrive. If you’re looking for tools to help you face life’s challenges with hope a...

In this inaugural Science Spotlight episode of 2025, Dr. Lee Warren dives deep into the world of mitochondrial health. He introduces the concept of 'Mitochondria Monday,' focusing on the importance of maintaining mitochondrial function for longevity and wellness as we age. Joined by Dr. Anurag Singh from Switzerland, an expert in cellular regeneration and mitochondrial health, they discuss the role of mitophagy, the groundbreaking molecule urolithin A, and its potential to rejuvenate and repair cells. The discussion includes the latest scientific findings, practical health tips, and an introduction to MitoPure, a product from Dr. Singh's company, Timeline, aimed at...

Dr. Lee Warren kicks off 2025 with an inspiring conversation with mindset and life coach Tricia Zody. Tricia shares her journey of overcoming the tragic loss of her husband and how she rebuilt her life through faith and neurological understanding. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-brain surgery, understanding the brain's functions, and the integration of neuroscience with faith. Tricia discusses the impact of negative labeling, how to combat hopelessness, and the significance of having a rich foundation of faith. Tricia also introduces her new book, Another Beautiful Life, and provides practical advice for anyone facing trauma and life-changing events.<...

In this episode of The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast, Dr. Warren walks listeners through actionable steps to prepare for 2025, equipping them with the tools to make it their best year yet—regardless of the challenges they may face. The key lies in adopting the mindset of a self-brain surgeon, taking control of your thoughts, habits, and disciplines to create lasting change.

Chapters

0:16 Introduction to 2025

9:53 The Power of Self-Brain Surgery

17:16 Winners vs. Losers

26:12 Personal Story and Lessons

33:23 Setting Goals for 2025

43:26 The Framework of Brain Goals

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In this episode, we explore the concept of self-brain surgery in the context of the Christmas season, offering reflections on personal growth and healing. We present three key gifts: the understanding that you are not defined solely by your brain, the realization that you already possess the tools needed to thrive, and the practice of mindful engagement with your thoughts and feelings. Learning to embrace transformation and take ownership of your narrative will ultimately foster a life filled with renewal and possibility as we approach the new year.

Click here for the computer-generated transcript<...

In this episode, I present a guide for preparing for 2025 with intention and purpose. I emphasize the importance of crafting a meaningful plan to uncover the best in our lives and transforming suffering into purpose.

I provide practical steps for daily engagement with scripture to gain insights into our existence and recommend resources like the Bible Recap for structured reflection. I also discuss the value of continuous learning and supportive relationships.

Looking ahead, I outline exciting podcast plans featuring health science, nutrition, and fitness episodes. I conclude with a motivational call to action, encouraging listeners...

In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Lee Warren welcomes Stephanie Duncan Smith to discuss her powerful new book, Even After Everything: The Spiritual Practice of Knowing the Risks and Loving Anyway. Together, they explore themes of grief, faith, resilience, and the cyclical nature of life and hope.

Stephanie shares her journey of navigating profound personal loss and rediscovering joy, offering practical wisdom and spiritual insight for those facing challenges. This conversation touches on breathwork, writing as a tool for healing, and the importance of honesty in grief.

Key Takeaways:

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren tackles the challenges of maintaining positive habits during the holiday season, a time often filled with stress and triggers. Drawing from his upcoming book, The Self-Brain Surgery Handbook, he introduces two innovative self-brain surgery techniques: the "Five-Minute Freeze" and "Flash Forward to Flashback." These methods are designed to help listeners resist reverting to harmful habits by fostering self-awareness, encouraging reflection, and leveraging neuroplasticity to reinforce healthier behaviors. Dr. Warren also weaves in spiritual insights and scripture to empower individuals in their journey toward resilience and transformation.

Chapters

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren sits down with Christy Osborne, sobriety coach and author of Love Life Sober. Christy recounts her transformative journey through grief, addiction, and healing, offering listeners a raw and hopeful narrative. After the loss of her mother, Christy turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism, which led her to a turning point in 2020. She shares her insights into the societal pressures around drinking, the neuroscience of addiction, and the importance of addressing the root causes of alcohol dependency.

Christy introduces her "40-Day Alcohol Fast," a grace-filled, judgment-free approach to exploring sobriety, and...

In this Thanksgiving-themed episode, Dr. Lee Warren explores the intersection of gratitude, grief, and the challenges of the holiday season. Reflecting on personal losses, including the passing of his son and mother-in-law, he introduces the "Loss to Legacy Shift"—a self-brain surgery operation that transforms grief into purpose by focusing on the lasting impact of loved ones.

Dr. Warren highlights the neuroscience-backed benefits of gratitude and the Abide Process, a prayer and meditation method that increases emotional resilience and facilitates healing. He discusses family dynamics during the holidays, offering strategies grounded in neuroscience, such as leveraging mirror ne...

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren interviews Mark Batterson, a pastor and bestselling author, discussing his new book, "A Million Little Miracles." The conversation centers on recognizing the everyday miracles often overlooked in modern life, emphasizing gratitude and the importance of finding hope in tumultuous times, especially during a presidential election year. Batterson blends themes of faith with personal anecdotes, highlighting how life's challenges can deepen appreciation for both small victories and the divine. They explore the relationship between faith and science and the significance of community in acknowledging miracles. The episode encourages listeners to celebrate the ordinary moments...

In this episode, I discuss generational trauma with Gina Birkemeier, a licensed counselor and author of Generations Deep. We explore her journey from adoption to becoming a therapist and the insights she gained about inherited emotional dysfunction.

Gina teaches us to cultivate resilience, highlighting the interplay between neuroscience and spiritual beliefs. We also talk about the importance of seeking mental health support and building a strong community for healing. Listeners will discover practical tools from Gina's workbook that aid in breaking free from inherited dysfunction, empowering them to reclaim their narratives and initiate positive change in their...

This conversation will help you find healing and power in the sacred space of prayer.

Be ready to take notes, shed tears, and renew your hope as New York Times bestselling author Ann Voskamp gives us a masterclass on neuroscience, theology, and a deep dive into overcoming trauma, tragedy, and all the places where life can hurt,.

We discuss Ann's new prayer journals, Sacred Prayer and Gifts and Gratitude, and Ann gives us a new way to think about how prayer affects our brains.

Click here for the transcript of this episode (note...

In this episode, we revisit the Ten Commandments of Self-Brain Surgery, connecting them to scripture for a blend of spiritual and practical self-care. Emphasizing the importance of renewing our minds through Ephesians 4, we discuss how our thoughts and choices shape our mental health.

Click here to download the transcript

Click here to download the Ten Commandments with scripture references

Chapters

0:04 Introduction to Self-Brain Surgery

1:15 Ten Commandments Overview

2:42 Ephesians Chapter 4 Unpacked

6:06 The Nature of the Battle

12:31 Understanding Automatic Thoughts

19:56...

In this episode, I discuss practical steps for self-brain surgery™, focusing on the importance of documentation in understanding mental health. We explore the SOAP note method for tracking thoughts and concerns, and introduce two key techniques: the thought biopsy to examine negative thinking, and the whole system scan for comprehensive self-assessment through mindfulness.

I emphasize the need to align subjective feelings with objective reality to foster a proactive mindset. Listeners are encouraged to use accompanying worksheets for reflection and documentation, as consistent practice can lead to meaningful transformation in mental well-being.

Click he...

In this episode of the Self-Brain Surgery Podcast, I discuss the second half of the 10 Commandments of Self-Brain Surgery, providing you with essential principles to enhance your mental health and personal growth. Building on the previous episode, I summarize the initial commandments and delve into actionable strategies to help you navigate life more effectively.

I explore the importance of simplifying challenges in commandment six and emphasize the effects of generational patterns in commandment seven. We then discuss the significance of caring for your brain in commandment eight, linking physical health and cognitive function. Commandment nine reinforces the...

In this episode, I introduce the first five of the Ten Commandments of self-brain surgery, which guide mental and emotional wellness. I emphasize the importance of rejecting self-destructive behaviors, understanding feelings as chemical events, questioning negative automatic thoughts, recognizing the brain's capacity for healing, and focusing on future possibilities over immediate discomfort. Practical applications are provided to encourage self-reflection and conscious thought alterations. The next episode will explore the remaining five commandments, continuing the journey toward personal fulfillment.

Click here to download Dr. Warren's free Thought Biopsy worksheet!

Click here for a transcript of this...

In this inaugural episode of Self-Brain Surgery™, renowned neurosurgeon, bestselling author, and high performance expert Dr. Lee Warren discusses the key to transforming your life through self-brain surgery™. This episode introduces the core concept of self-directed neuroplasticity and how to harness the mind’s power to influence and change the brain. By understanding the interplay between your thoughts, emotions, beliefs, habits, and actions, Dr. Warren explains how you can take control of your mental health and well-being. This episode also covers practical tools, biblical insights, and scientific principles to support lasting change.

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