Spiritual Brain Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren - Dr. Lee Warren

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Latest Episodes:

Understanding the Light (Tuesdays with Tata) Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

In this Tuesdays with Tata episode, Tata and I ponder the profound insights of John 1 from the Bible.

We discuss the significance of Jesus as the Word, and how getting to know him brings light into even the hardest parts of our lives. Tata shares some stories from his decades of walking alongside people in their most difficult moments, and he invites us to consider the challenges of faith in hardship and to develop an eternal perspective on life. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to taste and see that the Lord is good, especially for those searching for light in dark times.

Want more tools for rewiring your brain and renewing your mind?

🎙️ Subscribe to The Self-Brain Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren Podcast for weekly strategies to change your brain—and your life.
📖 Grab my book Hope Is the First Dose for a roadmap to recovery and transformation.
📘 And stay tuned for The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery—coming February 2026!

(00:09) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery
(15:04) - Understanding God's Heart for Us
(26:37) - The Power of Choice
(29:02) - The Importance of Acceptance
(35:48) - Finding Peace in God's Word

Men Don't Run in the Rain: Lessons from Rick Burgess (and other dads) May 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I give you five lessons I learned from my conversation with Rick Burgess, New York Times bestselling author and celebrated radio host (Rick and Bubba, The Rick Burgess Show). Rick has a new book about his dad Bill, called ⁠Men Don't Run in the Rain⁠. This episode is a prequel to the full interview, which will be released on 5/30//2025 on The Self-Brain Surgery Podcast.

Resources and Links

Rick's new book, ⁠Men Don't Run in the Rain⁠⁠

Rick's website for ⁠The Rick Burgess Show⁠

⁠The Man Church Conference⁠

⁠Sherri Burgess' beautiful book about losing their son Bronner⁠

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!)

(00:07) - Welcome to Spiritual Brain Surgery
(01:09) - A Conversation with Rick Burgess
(04:40) - Lessons from Dads and Legacy
(09:11) - The Water We Swim In
(11:51) - Changing Your Environment
(18:07) - Honoring Your Parents
(22:43) - Gratitude in Adversity
(25:07) - Finding Strength in Loss
(29:39) - The Value of Influence
(37:38) - The Impact of Integrity
(40:12) - Closing Thoughts and Reflections

A New Path Forward May 21, 2025

Show notes

Why We Need Spiritual Brain Surgery

Today, I'm sharing thoughts inspired by a fallen tree, a blocked road, and the search for a new path forward after unexpected calamity.
I want you to understand the importance of connecting faith with neuroscientific principles, and why we need two different podcasts to make space for this incredible community of budding self-brain surgeons. We discuss how personal setbacks and societal challenges often lead to a mindset that nothing can help, and why I argue for a shift in approach to realize that something - and eventually, perhaps God - can help. This is how we bridge the gap between science and faith, and I want you to explore both avenues for a deeper understanding and betterment of life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery

00:44 Why Start Another Podcast?

03:07 The Concept of Approaches in Neurosurgery

04:44 Changing Your Approach to Life

06:49 The Role of Science and Faith

10:54 Guest Hosts and Future Plans

11:31 The Importance of Spirituality

14:13 Overcoming Obstacles: A Personal Story

22:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Want more tools for rewiring your brain and renewing your mind?
🎙️ Subscribe to The Self-Brain Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren Podcastfor weekly strategies to change your brain and life.
📖 Grab my book Hope Is the First Dose.
✉️ Get my weekly Self-Brain Surgery letter! (FREE Thought Biopsy Worksheet when you subscribe!)

(00:08) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery
(01:15) - The Journey of Spiritual Brain Surgery
(02:54) - Approaching Life's Challenges
(05:25) - Shifting Perspectives: Nothing Can Help Me
(07:48) - Exploring Alternative Approaches
(09:50) - Bridging Science and Faith
(12:29) - The Importance of Spirituality
(15:00) - A Lesson from a Fallen Tree
(22:25) - Overcoming Life's Obstacles
(22:47) - The Purpose of Spiritual Brain Surgery
(26:57) - Embracing Change and Transformation

Devil or Diagnosis: Unraveling the Complexities of Mental Health and Spiritual Warfare May 13, 2025

Show notes

Are our thought problems the result of spiritual attack, or mental health issues? Are they just bad habits, or are they bad biochemistry? In short, are the things that trouble us Devil, or Diagnosis?

Dr. Lee Warren revisits a 2023 episode to address recent inquiries about mental health struggles, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and whether they stem from mental issues, spiritual components, or both.

The episode explores Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz's work on neuroplasticity, the mind-brain distinction, and practical self-brain surgery techniques to manage negative thinking. Dr. Warren emphasizes the importance of challenging automatic negative thoughts, relabeling, reframing, refocusing, and revaluing them to change one's mental state. He discusses the integration of neuroscience and faith in resolving these challenges and encourages listeners to seek professional help if needed.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode

00:49 Revisiting 'Devil or Diagnosis'

01:04 Jeffrey Schwartz's Contributions

01:24 The Mind-Brain Connection

01:28 Promoting Dr. Schwartz's Book

01:57 Upcoming Podcast Guests and Content

02:51 Encouragement to Subscribe and Engage

04:01 Introduction to the Main Topic

04:49 Understanding Disordered Thinking

05:35 The Role of Spiritual Warfare

06:44 Devil vs. Diagnosis

07:20 The Power of Self Brain Surgery

11:13 Jeffrey Schwartz's Four Steps

13:23 Changing Your Perspective

23:58 The Enemy's Influence and God's Promise

27:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Scripture: Isaiah 14:14-17, Isaiah 61:2-3, Hosea 2:15, Job 3:25

Book Mentioned: You Are Not Your Brain: The 4-Step Solution for Changing Bad Habits, Ending Unhealthy Thinking, and Taking Control of Your Lifeby Jeffrey Schwartz and Rebecca Gladding (This link is for pre-order of the upcoming audiobook release)

(00:04) - Introduction and Episode Overview
(04:06) - Mental Illness: Devil or Diagnosis?
(07:55) - Disordered Thinking and Its Impact
(14:46) - Jeffrey Schwartz's Four Steps
(17:16) - Challenging Negative Thoughts
(23:51) - The Enemy's Tactics
(28:13) - Seeking Professional Help
(29:35) - The Path to Change

A New Look at Suffering (Tuesdays with Tata) May 06, 2025

Show notes

Embracing Suffering: Finding Strength and Hope in Hardship

In this new Tuesdays with Tata episode, we dive into the heavy topic of suffering, particularly through personal tragedies, and explore how these experiences cultivate endurance, character, and hope.

Tata stresses the importance of relying on God through trials and how suffering can strengthen one's faith. Real-life anecdotes, biblical verses, and practical advice on handling adversity underline the discussion's spiritual depth. The episode underscores trusting God in the midst of hardship, the transformative power of suffering, and how to cultivate resilience through faith.

Scriptures mentioned: Romans 5:3-5, I Peter 1:5-7. James 1:2-4

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back to the Riverbank

00:15 Meet Our Feathered Neighbors

00:55 Springtime Allergies and Weather Woes

01:50 A Heartfelt Discussion on Suffering

03:55 Biblical Insights on Endurance

06:16 Refining Through Trials

09:38 Personal Reflections on Loss

13:54 Finding Faith Amidst Suffering

16:30 Reflecting on Self-Perception and Suffering

17:06 Lessons from Surgical Training

18:55 Experience-Dependent Neuroplasticity

20:42 Facing Major Life Challenges

21:20 The Importance of Trusting God

22:35 Practical Advice for Suffering

29:05 Invitation to Trust in Jesus

31:43 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

(00:08) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery
(01:28) - Life and Nature by the River
(02:53) - The Topic of Suffering
(03:54) - Reflections on Suffering and Faith
(04:59) - Finding Meaning in Suffering
(07:11) - The Process of Refining
(10:20) - Character Through Trials
(22:39) - Learning to Trust God
(25:19) - Casting Our Anxieties on Him
(28:29) - The Furnace of Suffering
(30:56) - Trusting God in Difficult Times
(32:43) - Preparing for Future Trials
(33:18) - Starting the Trust Process
(33:48) - Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

Christy Osborne and Meade Shirley: The Ten Commandments of Self-Brain Surgery and You, Part 2 Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

GUEST HOST EPISODE: Meade Shirley and Christy Osborne

This is part 2 of a powerful look at how the ten commandments of Self-Brain Surgery™ can help you break free from anything that's keeping you stuck in your life.

Join my friends, the two powerhouses behind the amazing But Jesus Drank Wine Podcast, Christy Osborne and Meade Holland Shirley, as they break down the neuroscience and faith connections behind real freedom.

If you missed part one, click here to listen!

Resources and Links

Christy and Meade's amazing podcast, But Jesus Drank Wine(here's my appearance on their show, possibly my favorite guest appearance ever!)
Meade's website (coaching, her powerful blog, and more)
Christy's powerful book, Love Life Sober
Christy's website (links to coaching, her wonderful Subtack writing, and more)
Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose!
Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! (50% off on paid subscriptions until May 1!)
Our featured partner for this episode is Zuma Nutrition. Click this link, and checkout with the promo code DRLEEWARREN to get 15% off.

(00:05) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery Podcast
(00:58) - Exploring Self-Brain Surgery Commandments
(02:01) - Commandment Six: Love Tomorrow More
(03:54) - Commandment Seven: Stop Overcomplicating
(12:24) - Commandment Eight: Break Generational Patterns
(22:08) - Commandment Nine: Believe in Your Progress
(28:40) - Commandment Ten: Thoughts Become Things
(37:27) - Community and Resources for Support

Doubting Thomas and the Power of Belief: Tuesdays with Tata Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

Doubting Thomas and the Power of Belief

In this special Easter Sunday episode, Tata and I delve into the story of Doubting Thomas, recorded against the backdrop of a beautiful sunrise by the riverbank. We explore the resurrection of Jesus, the significance of belief in the absence of physical evidence, and the importance of faith in times of doubt. The conversation highlights key biblical moments, including Thomas's journey from doubt to belief, and provides encouragement for those navigating their own spiritual questions.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Easter Sunday Setup

00:47 Discussing the Story of Doubting Thomas

01:33 The Empty Tomb and Jesus' Appearances

03:48 Thomas' Encounter with the Risen Jesus

07:07 Faith and Belief Without Seeing

10:47 Resisting Doubt and Temptation

13:36 Scriptural Accuracy and Final Thoughts

14:03 The Noble Bereans and the Importance of Scripture

15:05 Easter Sunday Reflections and the Resurrection

15:58 Belief and the Consequences of Faith

18:58 The Eternal Perspective and Life's Big Questions

26:16 Resources for Strengthening Faith

27:45 Concluding Thoughts on Faith and Doubt

Resources and Links

Lee Strobel's book Seeing the Supernatural
Ann Voskamp's Loved to Life
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!
Our featured partner for this episode is Zuma Nutrition. Click this link, and checkout with the promo code DRLEEWARREN to get 15% off.

(00:06) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery
(00:52) - Doubting Thomas and His Journey
(02:12) - The Empty Tomb and Its Significance
(06:59) - Jesus Appears to the Disciples
(09:04) - The Challenge of Belief
(11:32) - Understanding Faith and Evidence
(14:14) - The Role of Scripture
(16:04) - Investigating Our Beliefs
(19:24) - The Importance of Decision
(23:22) - The Resurrection and Its Impact
(26:32) - Resources for Further Exploration
(28:26) - Conclusion and Call to Action

Meade Shirley and Christy Osborne: The Ten Commandments of Self-Brain Surgery and You, Part 1 Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

GUEST HOST EPISODE: Meade Shirley and Christy Osborne

This is part 1 of a powerful look at how the ten commandments of self-brain surgery™ can help you break free from anything that's keeping you stuck in your life.

Resources and Links

Christy and Meade's amazing podcast, But Jesus Drank Wine(here's my appearance on their show, possibly my favorite guest appearance ever!)
Meade's website (coaching, her powerful blog, and more)
Christy's powerful book, Love Life Sober
Christy's website (links to coaching, her wonderful Substack writing, and more)
The BJDW Community:
http://butjesusdrankwine.com/community
The Missing Peace Coaching:
http://butjesusdrankwine.com/coaching
Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose!
Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! (50% off on paid subscriptions until May 1!)
Our featured partner for this episode is Zuma Nutrition. Click this link, and checkout with the promo code DRLEEWARREN to get 15% off.

(00:10) - Welcome to Spiritual Brain Surgery
(28:09) - The Power of Self-Brain Surgery
(43:53) - Transforming Lives Through Truth
(46:44) - Looking Ahead: Commandments Six to Ten

Tuesdays with Tata Classic: Deep Dive Into Worldview and Theology Apr 06, 2025

Show notes

A replay of Tuesdays with Tata #2, to finish off the discussion we had last week on the essential question for new listeners: "Who is Tata?"

Dennis McDonald, otherwise known as "Tata" to grandkids, friends, and people all over the world, is the namesake of our regular Spiritual Brain Surgery feature, Tuesdays with Tata. He's also my father-in-law, and sidekick for over 20 years, and I'm so grateful for the time and wisdom he shares with us here!

Enjoy!

Diving into the Psalms: Tuesdays with Tata Apr 06, 2025

Show notes

What does the book of Psalms have to do with modern life?

Join me for an inspiring and vulnerable conversation with Tata about turning to an ancient prayer book during life's hardest moments. You don't want to miss this one!

Resources and Links

Dane Ortlund's beautiful Psalms commentary, In the Lord I Take Refuge
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!
Our featured partner for this episode is Zuma Nutrition. Click this link, and checkout with the promo code DRLEEWARREN to get 15% off.

(00:08) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery
(00:49) - Spring Awakening
(02:10) - Embracing the Psalms
(15:13) - Finding Comfort in Struggles
(16:52) - Recognizing Our Mortality
(18:49) - The Need for Divine Help
(19:55) - The Lord is Our Refuge
(21:15) - Creating Hope Through Action
(30:44) - Commitment to Reading Psalms
(34:57) - Engaging with Our Community

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