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

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

Neurosurgeon and award-winning author Dr. W. Lee Warren, MD delivers weekly prescriptions from neuroscience, faith, and common sense on how to lead a healthier, better, happier life. You can’t change your life until you change your mind, and Dr. Warren will teach you the art of self-brain surgery™ to get it done. His latest book, Hope Is the First Dose, is available everywhere books are sold.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    War Stories #1: Going to War

    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 and strength, this episode is for you. Click here for the transcript! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The parallels between war and personal challenges. Why preparation (“prehab”) is essential for resilience. Lessons from deployment that apply to life’s battles. How to use gratitude and mindset shifts to reframe hardship. The importance of community, faith, and self-brain surgery in overcoming adversity. Resources Mentioned: Hope Is the First Dose by Dr. Lee Warren No Place to Hide by Dr. Lee Warren Dr. Lee Warren’s Newsletter: drleewarren.substack.com Timeline’s Mitopure: timeline.com – Use code drleewarren for 10% off. Connect with Dr. Lee Warren: Website: drleewarren.com Instagram: @drleewarren Podcast: Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:34 Reflecting on 20 Years Since Deployment 01:17 Lessons from the Iraq War 02:14 Applying Self Brain Surgery to Life's Battles 02:36 First War Story: Receiving Orders 03:50 Sponsor Message: Timeline 05:17 Preparing for Deployment 08:11 Facing the Unknown in Combat 11:32 Emotional and Personal Struggles 12:37 Types of Wars: Expected vs. Unexpected 13:27 Prehab: Preparing for Known Battles 16:46 Orders in Hand: Emotional Preparation 20:32 The Importance of Preparation 23:12 Biblical Perspective on Life's Struggles 24:09 Finding Faith in Hard Times 24:34 Preparing for Life's Challenges 24:59 Defining Your Belief System 26:04 Building Resilient Relationships 26:19 The Importance of Mental Preparation 26:47 Daily Gratitude Practice 28:32 Facing Life's Inevitable Wars 28:50 Planning for Potential Marital Issues 30:58 Financial Preparedness 32:32 Personal War Stories 35:46 The Impact of War on Personal Growth 38:14 The Power of Sharing War Stories 40:07 The Role of Faith and Community 43:53 Conclusion: Embracing Hope and Change This episode was sponsored by Timeline. Mitochondrial dysfunction as we age has been linked to muscle dysfunction, metabolism, overall energy levels, and resiliency. But what makes our mitochondria fail as we get older? It turns out to be related to a disruption in a process called mitophagy, the natural repair and recycling process that normally rebuilds and recreates healthy mitochondria to replace damaged ones. When mitophagy fails, mitochondria lose efficiency and cannot do their jobs, and we have a power failure. The compound that's key to keeping mitophagy happening normally is called Urolithin-A, and that compound is lacking in most of us because of a change over time in our gut microbiota. Timeline is renewing this process and making our mitochondria better with their product Mitopure. It will help you repair your cells, increase your strength, and become healthier. Check it out at timeline.com, and use the discount code leewarren for 10% off your first order. Resources and Links: I’ve created a free BRAIN Goals™ Guide for you! Click here to download the guide. It will help you align your mindset to your mission and set goals to make 2025 your best year yet! Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! Connect with me on Instagram @drleewarren Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    47 min

  2. JAN 6

    Science Spotlight #1: Dr. Anurag Singh on Mitochondria and Aging

    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 enhancing mitochondrial function. This episode provides valuable insights into how to proactively nurture your body for improved health and longevity. Click here for the computer-generated transcript Chapters 00:00 Introduction to 2025 and Science Spotlights 00:34 Understanding Mitochondria 01:14 The Aging Process and Mitochondria 02:57 Introducing Urolithin A 04:48 Interview with Dr. Anurag Singh 05:23 Dr. Singh's Background and Research 09:15 Mitochondria and Aging 12:32 Gut Health and Mitochondria 15:01 Urolithin A and Muscle Health 19:49 Brain Health and Urolithin A 25:49 Timeline and MitoPure Products 31:26 Conclusion and Health Tips This episode was sponsored by Timeline. Mitochondrial dysfunction as we age has been linked to muscle dysfunction, metabolism, overall energy levels, and resiliency. But what makes our mitochondria fail as we get older? It turns out to be related to a disruption in a process called mitophagy, the natural repair and recycling process that normally rebuilds and recreates healthy mitochondria to replace damaged ones. When mitophagy fails, mitochondria lose efficiency and cannot do their jobs, and we have a power failure. The compound that's key to keeping mitophagy happening normally is called Urolithin-A, and that compound is lacking in most of us because of a change over time in our gut microbiota. Timeline is renewing this process and making our mitochondria better with their product Mitopure. It will help you repair your cells, increase your strength, and become healthier. Check it out at timeline.com, and use the discount code leewarren33 for 33% off your first order. Resources and Links: Journaling is a helpful tool to specifically lay out your BRAIN goals, the action steps you need to reach them, and keep track of your progress. I use this PRODUCTIVE WEEKS planner* to map out my projects, podcasts, and books. I used it every day in 2024 as I sketched out and wrote my upcoming book, The Self-Brain Surgery Handbook. I’ve created a free BRAIN Goals™ Guide for you! Click here to download the guide. It will help you align your mindset to your mission and set goals to make 2025 your best year yet! Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    38 min

  3. JAN 2

    Another Beautiful Life with Tricia Zody

    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. Click here for the transcript Chapters 00:00 Welcome to 2025: A New Beginning 00:31 Facing Hardships and Finding Hope 02:12 Introducing Tricia Zody: A Journey of Resilience 03:15 A Conversation with Tricia Zody 05:21 Understanding Pain and the Brain 12:29 The Impact of Words and Moving Forward 22:36 Book Availability and Upcoming Audiobook 22:53 The Journey Through Loss and Faith 26:14 Crisis of Faith and God's Sovereignty 32:25 Spiritual Warfare and Overcoming Darkness 38:27 The Power of Truth and Preparation 39:38 Conclusion and Book Giveaway This episode was sponsored by Timeline. Mitochondrial dysfunction as we age has been linked to muscle dysfunction, metabolism, overall energy levels, and resiliency. But what makes our mitochondria fail as we get older? It turns out to be related to a disruption in a process called mitophagy, the natural repair and recycling process that normally rebuilds and recreates healthy mitochondria to replace damaged ones. When mitophagy fails, mitochondria lose efficiency and cannot do their jobs, and we have a power failure. The compound that's key to keeping mitophagy happening normally is called Urolithin-A, and that compound is lacking in most of us because of a change over time in our gut microbiota. Timeline is renewing this process and making our mitochondria better with their product Mitopure. It will help you repair your cells, increase your strength, and become healthier. Check it out here, and use code DRLEEWARREN for 10% off your first order. Resources and Links: Journaling is a helpful tool to specifically lay out your BRAIN goals, the action steps you need to reach them, and keep track of your progress. I use this PRODUCTIVE WEEKS planner* to map out my projects, podcasts, and books. I used it every day in 2024 as I sketched out and wrote my upcoming book, The Self-Brain Surgery Handbook. I’ve created a free BRAIN Goals™ Guide for you! Click here to download the guide. It will help you align your mindset to your mission and set goals to make 2025 your best year yet! Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    48 min

  4. 12/30/2024

    Use Your BRAIN for a Breakthrough Year

    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 55:39 Embracing Change and Growth 59:51 Conclusion and Call to Action Key Themes and Takeaways: What Is Self-Brain Surgery? The Power of Perspective Mindset for Winners Setting Brain Goals (Bold, Relevant, Actionable, Important, Nurturing) Journaling and Tracking Progress Personal Stories and Faith Integration Practical Application Reflection and Call to Action: Reflect on how past mindsets or external focus have held them back. Begin crafting BRAIN goals that align with their mission and values. Embrace the tools of self-brain surgery to change their minds and their lives, starting today. Resources and Links: Acres of Diamonds by Jentezen Franklin Almost Everything: Notes on Hope by Anne Lamott 10% Happier by Dan Harris Click here for the computer-generated transcript of this episode Journaling is a helpful tool to specifically lay out your BRAIN goals, the action steps you need to reach them, and keep track of your progress. I use this PRODUCTIVE WEEKS planner* to map out my projects, podcasts, and books. I used it every day in 2024 as I sketched out and wrote my upcoming book, The Self-Brain Surgery Handbook. I’ve created a free BRAIN Goals™ Guide for you! Click here to download the guide. It will help you align your mindset to your mission and set goals to make 2025 your best year yet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr

  5. 12/23/2024

    Life-Changing Gifts to Give Yourself this Christmas

    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 Chapters 0:06 Christmas Blessings and Gifts 3:05 Tools for Hope and Healing 8:24 The Power of Your Mind 13:04 Embrace Your Inner Strength 18:37 Break Free from Automatic Thinking 25:25 Transform Your Mind, Transform Your Life Our sponsor for this episode is AirDoctor Pro. Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code DRLEEWARREN to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, plus a 3-year warranty—an $84 value, free! Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 min

  6. 12/19/2024

    What's Your Plan?

    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 to shape their futures by letting go of the past and embracing new beginnings as each day presents an opportunity for transformation. Resources and Links: Lectio365 Prayer app The Bible Recap Click here for the computer-generated transcript of this episode Journaling is a helpful tool to specifically lay out your BRAIN goals, the action steps you need to reach them, and keep track of your progress. I use this PRODUCTIVE WEEKS planner* to map out my projects, podcasts, and books. I used it every day in 2024 as I sketched out and wrote my upcoming book, The Self-Brain Surgery Handbook. I’ve created a free BRAIN Goals™ Guide for you! Click here to download the guide. It will help you align your mindset to your mission and set goals to make 2025 your best year yet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    47 min

  7. 12/16/2024

    Even After Everything with Stephanie Duncan Smith

    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: Naming Pain: Grieving authentically is essential to healing; honesty with oneself and God fosters recovery. Faith and Breathwork: Integrating physical practices like breathwork with spiritual faith can ground and stabilize during life’s uncertainties. Cycles of Renewal: Life’s seasons of loss and joy reflect the liturgical calendar’s rhythm, moving toward hope and resurrection. Writing as Healing: Writing can reframe grief and help us process experiences, offering clarity and renewed purpose. Chapters 0:04 Introduction to Self-Brain Surgery 1:44 Meet Stephanie Duncan Smith 4:07 The Power of Loss and Hope 8:14 Navigating Grief and Whiplash 11:26 Naming the Night 12:59 Connecting with the Liturgical Calendar 15:11 Life and Death Juxtapositions 18:03 Breathwork as a Spiritual Practice 22:39 Writing Through Pain 26:49 The Process of Healing 34:48 Encouragement for the Grieving 36:37 Conclusion and Reflections Check out Stephanie's great Substack for writers, The Slant Letter Click here for the computer-generated transcript of this episode Our featured partner for this episode is Adapt Naturals: As we enter the winter season, staying healthy is more important than ever. That’s why Lisa and I trust Adapt Naturals Bioavail Colostrum+ to support our immune system and overall well-being. You can try it too—use code DRLEEWARREN for 15% off your first order. Key Benefits of Bioavail Colostrum+: Supports gut health and immune function Promotes healthy inflammatory response Enhances nutrient absorption Supports skin health and athletic recovery 2.5 grams of colostrum per serving - 2.5x more than most competitors Includes 100mg of lactoferrin and 200mg of beta-glucan for enhanced benefits Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows You can use this link to try Bioavail Colostrum+, and use code DRLEEWARREN for 15% off your first order. Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    44 min

  8. 12/09/2024

    Self-Brain Surgery™ for Holidays and Habits

    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 0:16 Holiday Habits and Self-Brain Surgery 2:23 Temptations and Triggers 4:40 Introducing the Five-Minute Freeze 7:33 The Neuroscience of Habits 12:00 Understanding Temptation 14:08 Transforming Your Mind 15:35 Building Discipline with the Five-Minute Freeze 22:55 Exposing Underlying Behaviors 26:37 Flash Forward to Flashback 30:34 Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Key Takeaways The Five-Minute Freeze Pause before acting on a habit to consider its immediate and long-term consequences (5 minutes, 5 days, 5 years). Helps engage the rational part of the brain, breaking the cycle of impulsive, limbic-driven responses. Flash Forward to Flashback Reflect on past instances of indulging in habits to recall negative consequences. Use these memories to inform present decisions and visualize a better future. Neuroplasticity in Action Repeated thoughts and actions create neural pathways that make behaviors automatic. Breaking old habits and forming new ones require intentional effort to "rewire" the brain. Spiritual Foundations Scripture highlights the importance of transforming the mind to change behaviors (Romans 12:2). God provides opportunities to resist temptation, offering hope for lasting change. Quotes from the Episode "Thoughts become things. If you want to change your life, start with your thinking." "You don’t rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your preparation." "Love tomorrow more than you hate how you feel right now." Tags #PositiveHabits #HolidayStress #SelfBrainSurgery #Neuroplasticity #Resilience #FiveMinuteFreeze #FlashForwardToFlashback #Transformation Actionable Steps Practice the Five-Minute Freeze during moments of temptation. Conduct a "Thought Biopsy" to identify and challenge disordered thinking patterns. Use the Flash Forward to Flashback method to reinforce healthier choices. Anticipate potential triggers and prepare with intentional strategies to stay on track. Related episodes: [Insert Links to Relevant Podcast Episodes] Follow Dr. Lee Warren on Instagram: @drleewarren Listener Challenge This holiday season, commit to practicing the Five-Minute Freeze at least once daily. Share your experience on social media using #SelfBrainSurgery and tag @drleewarren to join the conversation! Click here for the computer-generated transcript Our featured partner for this episode is Adapt Naturals: As we enter the winter season, staying healthy is more important than ever. That’s why Lisa and I trust Adapt Naturals Bioavail Colostrum+ to support our immune system and overall well-being. You can try it too—use code DRLEEWARREN for 15% off your first order. Key Benefits of Bioavail Colostrum+: Supports gut health and immune function Promotes healthy inflammatory response Enhances nutrient absorption Supports skin health and athletic recovery 2.5 grams of colostrum per serving - 2.5x more than most competitors Includes 100mg of lactoferrin and 200mg of beta-glucan for enhanced benefits Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows You can use this link to try Bioavail Colostrum+, and use code DRLEEWARREN for 15% off your first order. Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First Dose! Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min
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About

Neurosurgeon and award-winning author Dr. W. Lee Warren, MD delivers weekly prescriptions from neuroscience, faith, and common sense on how to lead a healthier, better, happier life. You can’t change your life until you change your mind, and Dr. Warren will teach you the art of self-brain surgery™ to get it done. His latest book, Hope Is the First Dose, is available everywhere books are sold.

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