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

Dr. Lee Warren
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. 4 DAYS AGO

    Quantum Decision-Making

    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 the transformative power of conscious choice, supported by scientific principles and spiritual wisdom. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Self Brain Surgery Podcast 00:28 The Power of Observation 02:34 Challenging Hardwired Beliefs 07:32 Quantum Decision-Making Explained 08:07 Classical vs. Quantum Physics 13:44 The Impact of Quantum Physics on Neuroscience 15:29 The Power of Quantum Decision-Making 26:46 The Power of Pausing and Reflecting 27:08 Redefining Trauma and Response 30:46 Quantum Decision-Making Explained 32:32 The Neuroscience of Change 34:57 Faith and Quantum Decision-Making 40:21 Practical Applications of Quantum Prayer 48:27 Challenge: Engage in Quantum Decision-Making 49:02 Conclusion and Call to Action Click here for the transcript! Resources and Links: Our sponsor for this episode is TImeline: Visit timeline.com, and use the discount code leewarren for 10% off your first order of MitoPure! 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

    54 min
  2. FEB 10

    Exploring the Mind-Brain Connection

    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 shares tips on conducting a 'whole system scan' to prepare for change and introduces the core ideas that self brain surgery is not therapy, but a set of insights and tools for intentional mental and life transformations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Self Brain Surgery 00:13 The School of Self Brain Surgery 00:45 Newsletter and Book Announcements 02:21 The Importance of Mindset 03:30 Understanding the Mind-Brain Difference 12:04 The Three Common Lies 18:29 The Power of Response 21:39 Brain Automation and Habits 26:03 Understanding Brain Loops and Habits 27:04 The Second Commandment: Feelings Aren't Facts 27:36 Fight or Flight: Healthy and Unhealthy Reactions 28:54 The Problem with Automated Reactions 29:40 Creating New Brain Habits 31:50 Self Brain Surgery: Taking Control 35:12 Self Brain Surgery vs. Therapy 36:43 The Power of Neuroplasticity 41:35 Science and Spirituality 50:59 Becoming the Actor in Your Own Life 53:24 Conclusion and Next Steps Click here for the transcript Resources and Links: Our sponsor for this episode is TImeline: Visit timeline.com, and use the discount code leewarren for 10% off your first order of MitoPure! 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

    59 min
  3. FEB 3

    Never Too Old to Heal

    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 thinking, and finding light even in the darkest times. Special attention is given to the power of neuroplasticity, biblical principles, and practical tips for mental and spiritual transformation. The episode aims to guide listeners towards a more fulfilling and abundant life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings 01:39 Understanding the Diderot Effect 05:55 Recalibrating for a Better Year 15:46 The Power of Healing and Change 21:58 10 Rules for Abundant Living 29:18 The Power of Neuroplasticity 30:11 Embracing God's Promises 31:05 Healing Beyond Physical Illness 32:35 Overcoming Negativity 37:16 Finding Hope in the Darkness 39:42 Transforming Trauma 44:43 Cultivating Happiness 46:36 Taking Action Against Overwhelm 47:44 Spiritual Cleansing and Renewal 50:08 The Journey of Change 52:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Click here for the transcript! Resources and Links: Our sponsor for this episode is TImeline: Visit timeline.com, and use the discount code leewarren for 10% off your first order of MitoPure! Sahil Bloom's Curiosity Chronicle newsletter 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

    57 min
  4. JAN 28

    It's Not Impossible, No Matter How it Feels

    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 can make a way through any hardship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Self Brain Surgery 00:19 Theology and Faith 01:46 Theology Monday and Podcast Promotion 02:44 Sponsor Message: Mitopure 03:40 Science and Faith: Complementary Paths 07:39 Monuments and Footprints 10:06 The Power of Community 14:47 The Role of Faith in Hard Times 22:59 Self Brain Surgery and Upcoming Projects 26:05 Facing Impossible Situations 28:35 Engage Your Frontal Lobe 29:26 Changing Trains of Thought 31:28 Crossroads and Monuments 32:25 AirDoctor Pro Sponsor Message 33:45 Memories and Footprints 44:19 God's Impossible Feats 48:21 Change Your Mind, Change Your Life 54:03 Final Thoughts and Farewell Click here for the transcript! Resources and Links: Visit timeline.com, and use the discount code leewarren33 for 33% off your first order of MitoPure! Visit 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! 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! ABIDE Prayer method Lectio365 app Kari Jobe song mentioned Eugene Peterson book mentioned (affiliate link) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    58 min
  5. JAN 20

    Checking for Drift

    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 Timeline and AquaTru. Key takeaways include understanding the significance of thoroughness and intentionality in our daily pursuits and making proactive adjustments to realign with our goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and New Year Reflections 02:43 Understanding Approach Drift in Surgery 08:07 Applying Surgical Precision to Life Goals 14:39 Practical Tips for Habit Formation 19:49 Defining a Successful Year 24:53 Inspiration from Seth Godin 25:21 Reflecting on Personal Goals 25:51 Seth Godin's Insight: Does It Work? 26:43 Aligning Actions with Intentions 28:12 Overcoming Mental Barriers 31:21 The Importance of Intentionality 38:22 Pathophysiology and Self Brain Surgery 46:58 Implementing Change and Moving Forward Click here for the transcript! Resources and Links: Sponsors: TImeline: Visit timeline.com, and use the discount code leewarren33 for 33% off your first order of MitoPure! Aquatru: Visit aquatru.com and use discount code DRLEEWARREN for 20% discount on any Aquatru water filtration system! 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

    53 min
  6. JAN 13

    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

    49 min
  7. 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

    40 min
  8. 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

    50 min
4.9
out of 5
354 Ratings

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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