Sinopse
Life isnt brain surgery; its harder. Dr. Lee Warren helps us become healthier, feel better, and be happier, starting today.
Episódios
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Operating from the Outside In (S12E70)
18/08/2025 Duração: 01h02minIn this episode, we explore Outside-In Thinking, a powerful approach to mental and emotional well-being. This method encourages you to view your lives from an outsider’s perspective, helping to dismantle limiting beliefs and recognize personal strengths. By framing self-perception through the lens of value and potential, I introduce a spiritual dimension that fosters love and purpose. Embracing this mindset shift empowers you to manage thoughts effectively, cultivate healthier habits, and embark on a transformative journey toward a brighter future. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, I've Seen the End of You Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! (Get my free Thought Biopsy Worksheet when you subscribe!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Social Media Reset with Allie Marie Smith (S12E69)
15/08/2025 Duração: 53minIn this episode, I engage in a profound discussion with Allie Marie Smith, a life coach, author, and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a nonprofit dedicated to helping girls and women embrace their identity and worth in God. We explore the alarming mental health crisis affecting our youth, particularly young women. Statistics reveal that one in three teenage girls in the U.S. is contemplating suicide, while over one-third of adult women have been diagnosed with depression. This crisis is compounded by the pervasive influence of social media, which has escalated feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression among its users. Allie's own journey through depression and suicidal ideation led her to recognize the detrimental impact of social media on mental health. Drawing from her personal experiences, she has written a new book, "Social Media Reset," which offers a guided 30-day journey designed to help individuals unplug and reconnect with God, themselves, and their loved ones. You'll learn the surprising ways that
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Tame Your Thoughts, with Max Lucado (S12E68)
11/08/2025 Duração: 46minIn this episode, I welcome back Max Lucado, a celebrated pastor and bestselling author, to discuss his new book, Tame Your Thoughts. Our conversation highlights the crucial need for managing our thinking in today's world, marked by anxiety and negativity. Max shares personal experiences and insights from his pastoral journey, emphasizing faith and community in overcoming life's challenges. He introduces three practical tools for thought management: "Practice Picky Thinking," which encourages discernment in our thought engagement; "UFOs," or untruths that distort reality; and "Uprooting and Replanting," focusing on replacing negative thoughts with Biblical truths. We explore the transformative potential of neuroplasticity and how our minds can be renewed through faith. Max's message empowers listeners to take control of their thought lives, aligning them with God's peace. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links Max's website Max's new book, Tame Your Thoughts My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biog
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How to Stay On Track (S12E67)
08/08/2025 Duração: 46minIn this episode, I explore "approach drift," the tendency for our intentions to be derailed by distractions, old habits, and failing to develop a discipline of checking to make sure we're using a reliable system to guide us. I share insights from my neurosurgical practice to illustrate the importance of self-assessment and maintaining focus on our goals. I show you how to recognize moments of drift and implement strategies for change, leveraging concepts like neuroplasticity to create healthier thought patterns. This discussion serves as a reminder that change is always possible with a commitment to rethinking our approaches and taking action today. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, I've Seen the End of You Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! (Get my free Thought Biopsy Worksheet when you subscribe!) Learn more
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Planning Your Self-Brain Surgery, Part 4 (S12E66)
04/08/2025 Duração: 53min(Make sure to listen to the first three parts in this series if you missed them!) In neurosurgery, we change our approach to a case if the plan we had isn't producing the outcome we want. Good surgeons look objectively at their outcomes, and we're willing to change our approach to do the best thing for our patient. In self-brain surgery, you are both the patient AND the surgeon, so being unwilling to change approaches is a form of self-malpractice. And that violates our first commandment: "I must relentlessly refuse to participate in my own demise." Life inevitably brings trauma and hardships that create mental blocks. I've been studying these challenges for years, and I've discovered that understanding how to actively engage with our minds can significantly alter our life trajectories. A principal takeaway is that negative experiences do not define us- our responses to those experiences do. The concept of self-brain surgery revolves around this transformative idea of harnessing our thoughts to influenc
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Trauma Rounds: Am I Responsible? (S12E65)
01/08/2025 Duração: 39minIn this episode, we explore the complex relationship between personal responsibility and trauma in response to a listener's inquiry. While we can't control the traumatic events we face, we can choose how to respond to them. Drawing on personal experiences and insights from neuroscience and scripture, I discuss actionable steps for healing, including seeking help and managing our mindset through self-brain surgery. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, I've Seen the End of You Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! (Get my free Thought Biopsy Worksheet when you subscribe!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Planning Your Self-Brain Surgery, Part 3 (S12E64)
28/07/2025 Duração: 52min(Make sure to listen to the first two parts in this series if you missed them!) In neurosurgery, we change our approach to a case if the plan we had isn't producing the outcome we want. Good surgeons look objectively at their outcomes, and we're willing to change our approach to do the best thing for our patient. In self-brain surgery, you are both the patient AND the surgeon, so being unwilling to change approaches is a form of self-malpractice. And that violates our first commandment: "I must relentlessly refuse to participate in my own demise." Life inevitably brings trauma and hardships that create mental blocks. I've been studying these challenges for years, and I've discovered that understanding how to actively engage with our minds can significantly alter our life trajectories. A principal takeaway is that negative experiences do not define us- our responses to those experiences do. The concept of self-brain surgery revolves around this transformative idea of harnessing our thoughts to influence
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The Brain Surgeon and the Therapist, with Gina Birkemeier (S12E63)
25/07/2025 Duração: 01h09minIntroducing a new, recurring series of episodes, The Brain Surgeon and The Therapist," where I connect with therapist Gina Birkemeier to explore the intersection of mental health, wellness, and resilience. We discuss the concept of self-brain surgery to help listeners rethink their mental processes for a healthier life. Key themes include resilience, purpose, and navigating challenges such as chronic illness and trauma, as well as the complexities of grief in light of recent events. We address listener questions and offer practical strategies for healing, emphasizing the emotional-physical pain connection. This conversation sets the stage for future episodes where we will dive deeper into personal growth and healing. Click here for the transcript (note: computer-generated transcripts are not perfect. They consistently misspell names, for example!) Resources and Links Gina's website Gina's book, Generations Deep Generations Deep Journal Gina's first appearance on the podcast My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/
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Planning Your Self-Brain Surgery, Part 2 (S12E62)
21/07/2025 Duração: 50minLife inevitably brings trauma and hardships that create mental blocks. I've been studying these challenges for years, and I've discovered that understanding how to actively engage with our minds can significantly alter our life trajectories. A principal takeaway is that negative experiences do not define us, our responses to those experiences do. The concept of self-brain surgery revolves around this transformative idea of harnessing our thoughts to influence real changes in our lives, promoting resilience, hope, and deeper connections with ourselves and others. Today, we learn two approaches for dealing with whatever life throws at us. How you approach these things makes all the difference in whether you thrive or crumble when things get hard. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, I've Seen the End of You Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter her
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Mind and Brain, with Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz (S12E61)
18/07/2025 Duração: 01h11minJoin me for a conversation with world-renowned psychiatrist and neuroscience pioneer, Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz. We discuss the mind-brain relationship, the stunning amount of control that people have over their thoughts, particularly in managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Schwartz challenges materialistic neuroscience views with his book You Are Not Your Brain, advocating for mindfulness and metacognition as tools for personal agency. He introduces the "Four Steps" method to help control intrusive thoughts. We also talk about handling grief and hardship, with Dr. Schwartz highlighting the importance of healthy mourning, taking a holistic approach to mental health that combines scientific insights with spiritual wisdom, and encouraging transformation through self-awareness. Chapters Introduction to Self-Brain Surgery The Power of Mindfulness Jeffrey Schwartz's Journey The Intersection of Mind and Brain Mindfulness and Its Misinterpretations The Role of the Wise Advocate Understanding Grief an
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Planning Your Self-Brain Surgery (S12E60)
14/07/2025 Duração: 48minThis episode provides a re-introduction for new listeners into the transformative concept of self-brain surgery, a revolutionary approach that combines neuroscience with faith to empower individuals to reshape their mental health and life experiences. If you've been listening for a while, this will remind you of where we start on our journey to change our minds and change our lives. I reflect on how our conversations on the podcast over the past year contributed to the development of my upcoming book, The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery, which is set for release in February. While navigating the complexities of life, I also share my journey of connecting with the audience during the book-writing process, where I used our podcast as a platform to explore ideas and refine the messages intended for the book.I introduce new listeners to the principles behind self-brain surgery and the significance of engaging in an ongoing journey of self-awareness and improvement. Click here for the transcript Re
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Through the Valley of Grief, with Mattie Jackson Smith (S12E59)
11/07/2025 Duração: 54minIn this episode, I explore the themes of grief, hope, and healing with Mattie Jackson Smith, an author who opens up about her journey following the loss of her husband. We discuss her new book, Through the Valley of Grief, a 365-day devotional meant to support those navigating grief. Mattie shares her personal story and emphasizes the complexity of grief while detailing her grief management course designed for those beginning to tackle their emotions. We unpack four key practices from her book—Wail, Worship, Connect, and Hope—that serve as essential tools for healing and community. Mattie highlights the importance of finding mentors and pace people who can offer hope and support during difficult times. This conversation aims to inspire listeners to engage with their own healing processes and recognize the transformative potential that can emerge through adversity. Click here for the transcript (Remember: computer-generated transcripts can have errors) Chapters Introduction to Grief Reintroducing Mad
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When the Massive Thing Happens to Someone Else (S12E58)
07/07/2025 Duração: 50minIn this special episode, we cover what to do when massive things happen to someone else. Inspired by a friend's question about how to help someone she loves who lost a child in the devastating South Texas floods, this one will give you some practical tools to help you know: What to do When to do it What to say and not say A simple rule for what to do when you yourself are on the holy ground of helping someone when God feels distant Click here for the transcript Chapters The Call to Compassion Navigating Grief and Loss Understanding Theodicy Preparing to Offer Support The Power of Presence Practical Ways to Help Supporting Through Silence Remembering the Lost Being an Anchor of Hope Resources Max Lucado's You'll Get Through This Philip Yancey's The Question That Never Goes Away Timothy Keller's Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering
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The Bible Simplified, with Zach Windahl (S12E57)
04/07/2025 Duração: 44minIn this episode, I chat with Zach Windahl, a popular author and content creator, about his latest book, The Bible Simplified: Learn the Story, Live the Story. Zach reflects on his journey of faith, shares insights on overcoming the complexities of the Bible, and the importance of direct engagement with Scripture. We explore the implications of faith deconstruction among younger generations, and discuss practical approaches to Bible study. Zach's experiences highlight the transformative power of prayer and the importance of maintaining hope, reminding us that solace can be found in the Scriptures, even during difficult times. Chapters Introduction to the Journey Meeting Zach Windahl The Bible Simplified Understanding Faith Deconstruction Navigating Hardship with Scripture The Narrative Arc of the Bible Practical Approaches to Scripture Study Final Thoughts and Blessings Click here for the transcript Want more tools for rewiring your brain and renewing your mind? Zach's website Zach on Instagra
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AMP'd Up (S12E56)
30/06/2025 Duração: 01h01minIn this episode, we learn the transformative practice of anticipatory metacognition, or AMP, a groundbreaking approach I'm excited to share as a key component of self-brain surgery. This concept combines neuroscience and faith, demonstrating that we hold the power to influence and reshape our minds, ultimately leading to profound life changes. By engaging in anticipatory metacognition practice, we can anticipate risks, direct our attention towards positive outcomes, and use our unique cognitive abilities to flourish. Throughout the conversation, I explore how this practice can help you break free from the constraints of your current mindset. Too often, we become trapped in negative thought patterns—focusing on past regrets or future anxieties—but through the lens of anticipatory metacognition, we can shift our attention to constructive, future-oriented thinking. This episode draws from my upcoming book, The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery, which will soon be available for pre-order. I’m eager t
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Fix Your Brain, with Olympic Champion Steve Mesler (S12E55)
27/06/2025 Duração: 48minIn this episode, I reunite with Steve Mesler, the 2010 U.S. Olympic gold medalist in bobsled, as he shares his journey through unexpected mental health challenges post-Olympics. We discuss the impact of professional stagnation and health issues on his mental state, including the sobering realization of suicidal thoughts.Steve emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in dismantling the stigma around mental health and highlights the medical and therapeutic support that aided his recovery. He also shares proactive measures for maintaining mental fitness, illustrating that with the right tools and support, it's possible to thrive after adversity. My favorite line was Steve's epiphany that led to him to seek help for his depression: "I realized that I can't fix my brain with my brain." Click here for the transcript Other Helpful Links: Learn more about Steve Mesler and Classroom Champions here Follow Steve on Instagram and Twitter for daily inspiration! Be sure to check out my latest
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Switching Things Up (S12E54)
23/06/2025 Duração: 45minIn this episode of the Self Brain Surgery Podcast, Dr. Lee Warren discusses the power of metacognition and how rewiring your brain starts with thinking about rewiring your brain. He introduces the 'patchbay' concept to illustrate how you can direct your thoughts to make structural changes in your brain. The episode delves into the scientific basis of neuroplasticity and how microtubules in the brain respond to our thoughts and intentions. Dr. Warren emphasizes the importance of examining our thoughts ('thought biopsy') to replace negative and untrue thinking with positive and constructive thoughts. He discusses the significance of the ten commandments of self-brain surgery for healthy neural changes and offers practical advice for achieving personal growth and overcoming mental barriers. Chapters Introduction and Episode Overview Scrubbing In: Preparing for Self Brain Surgery Understanding the Mind-Brain Interface The Power of Outlets: A Metaphor for Brain Wiring Microtubules and Brain Rewiring The
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Moving the Target (S12E53)
20/06/2025 Duração: 34minIn this episode, Dr. Lee Warren discusses the importance of setting the right goals and targets in life. Using metaphors from sports and personal stories, he illustrates how pursuing the wrong objectives can lead to dissatisfaction and penalties. He emphasizes the significance of internal joy and spiritual goals over transient pleasures and external validations. Click here for the transcript Chapters Introduction and Overview Understanding Goalposts and Targets The ABIDE Process: Preparing for Self-Brain Surgery The Power of Mind Over Brain Breathing and Inviting God into the Process The Golf Story: Aiming at the Right Target The Dangers of Misplaced Goals The Science and Faith Connection Conclusion and Next Steps Want more tools for rewiring your brain and renewing your mind?
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The Thought Biopsy (S12E52)
16/06/2025 Duração: 35minWhat if not every thought you have is true? In this powerful episode, Dr. Lee Warren takes you into the mental operating room to practice the Thought Biopsy, a self-brain surgery procedure that helps you examine automatic thoughts before you let them dictate your emotions, choices, and behaviors. With neuroscience, scripture, and a surgeon’s clarity, Dr. Warren guides you through a practical, life-saving mindset shift: you are not your brain, and you don’t have to believe everything you think. Learn how to take your thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5), use metacognition to stop self-malpractice, and begin rewiring your brain—on purpose—for resilience, peace, and hope. Highlights from this episode: The startling number of automatic thoughts you have each day—and why most of them are negative and untrue Why trusting every thought is like a surgeon operating without a biopsy The gift of metacognition and the “subject-object shift” The neuroscience of automatic thoughts, hippocampal growth,
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Heart Aches and Bone Breaks (S12E51)
13/06/2025 Duração: 45minIn this episode of the Self Brain Surgery Podcast, Dr. Lee Warren explores the intricate relationship between physical and emotional pain, showcasing how the brain processes both in similar ways. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and scientific research, Dr. Warren sheds light on why heartaches can feel as intense as physical injuries. He provides listeners with practical tools and strategies to reframe their grief, including self-brain surgery techniques, journaling, meditation, and community support. Emphasizing the importance of faith and neuroscience, Dr. Warren inspires listeners to take control of their thoughts and rewire their brains for hope, resilience, and meaningful healing. Click here for the transcript Chapters Introduction and Episode Overview Understanding Emotional and Physical Pain The Practice of Scrubbing In Neuroscience of Emotional Pain Biblical Insights on Pain and Grief Strategies for Healing and Moving Forward Understanding the Enemy's Impact Finding Abun