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. 1D AGO

    Jewel of Heaven, with Angie Howell

    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 of chronic illness, the importance of support systems, and the incredible moments that define their journey. Angie’s story serves as an inspiration for those facing their own struggles, emphasizing that miracles can happen when you least expect them. Click here for the transcript Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:10 Meet Angie Howell: A Story of Struggle and Miracles 00:14 The Unexpected Pregnancy 00:30 Challenges and Miraculous Healing 00:46 Angie's New Book: Jewel of Heaven 01:11 Faith and Perseverance 02:12 Instructions for Book Giveaway 03:45 Angie's Interview Begins 04:25 Angie's Journey: From Pregnancy to Realization 07:00 Jade's Medical Struggles 09:11 The Diagnosis and Its Impact 10:21 Family Dynamics and Faith Challenges 12:37 The MRI and the Devastating News 19:41 Cousin Rich and the Power of Persistence 22:33 Jade's Struggles and Rich's Call 23:37 The Eternal Brothers Ministry 25:38 A Miraculous Change 26:26 The Meaning Behind Jade's Name 28:03 The MRI Results 33:10 Jade's Progress and Current Life 35:24 Jade's Story of Meeting Jesus 38:35 Final Thoughts and Book Promotion Resources and Links Angie's website (coaching, her book, 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!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    46 min
  2. 5D AGO

    12 Steps to Freedom, with Ian Morgan Cron

    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 of the 12 steps, emphasizing their gospel-aligned principles and practical application for anyone seeking to overcome life's challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:25 Understanding the 12 Steps 02:09 Ian's Perspective on Recovery 03:55 Introducing Ian Morgan Cron 04:42 Ian's Background and Journey 06:56 The Power of Community in Recovery 09:36 The Spiritual Aspect of the 12 Steps 20:07 The Icy Hot Lesson 24:16 Introduction to Recovery Lessons 25:03 The Importance of Facing the Truth 27:10 Surrendering to God's Will 28:46 A Prayer for Healing and Guidance 31:01 Exploring the 12 Steps of Recovery 34:13 Applying the 12 Steps to Everyday Life 39:00 The Power of Community and Confession 43:56 Continuing the Journey of Self-Improvement 47:03 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Click here for the transcript Resources and Links Learn more about Ian Cron here Read Ian's book, The Fix 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

    52 min
  3. APR 11

    Ericka Andersen: Taking Action When It's Time

    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. About Ericka Andersen Ericka Andersen is a freelance writer, podcast host and owner of Pitch and Publish Writing Company. She is the author of "Reason to Return: Why Women Need the Church & the Church Needs Women" and "Leaving Cloud 9: The True Story of a Life Resurrected From the Ashes of Poverty, Trauma and Mental Illness." She has been published multiple times in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, the Washington Post and more. Ericka is a weekly columnist at WORLD Magazine and a freelance reporter for Christianity Today. Prior to freelancing, Ericka worked for National Review Magazine, the Heritage Foundation and in communications for the U.S. Congress on Capitol Hill. She attended Indiana University and lives in Indianapolis, Indiana, with her husband and two children. Click here for the transcript Chapters 0:03 Introduction to Self-Brain Surgery 2:34 The Importance of Listening 9:17 Upcoming Guests and Their Controversies 14:59 Meet Erica Anderson 16:23 Erica's Journey with Alcohol 26:10 The Role of Community in Recovery 32:42 The Unique Struggles of Christian Women 34:37 Writing Career and Its Evolution 37:41 Pitch and Publish: Helping Aspiring Writers 43:25 Final Encouragement for the Sober Curious Resources and Links Ericka's Substack, Worth Your Time Ericka's business for writers, Pitch and Publish Ericka's Amazon author page 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

    51 min
  4. APR 7

    Ann Voskamp: Loved to Life

    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 discussion emphasizes the transformative power of faith in Jesus. Click here for the transcript Click here to watch the video version from Descript Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:24 Honoring Different Paths to Faith 01:05 Exploring the Gospel of John 02:30 Action April Challenge 03:57 Introducing Ann Voskamp 05:10 Personal Stories of Faith and Hardship 06:47 Ann Voskamp's Writing Journey 09:26 The Power of the Gospel of John 11:26 Deep Dive into Suffering and Faith 19:37 Personal Reflections and Stories 29:34 Changing the Question: From 'Why' to 'Where' 31:06 Living for Jesus Amidst Loss 32:43 The Gift of Suffering 34:55 Dealing with Past Mistakes 36:09 The Story of the Woman Caught in Adultery 40:56 The Significance of Jesus' Resurrection 48:48 Comfort in Deep Grief 53:43 Conclusion and Book Giveaway Other Resources Ann's website Loved to Life audiobook (HIGHLY recommended!) My website, drleewarren.com (links to my books and more!) Self-Brain Surgery on Substack, a top-35 Science publication! Neurotheology and Sacred Prayer, my previous podcast conversation with Ann Voskamp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 1m
  5. MAR 31

    Finding Answers to the Big Questions, with J. Warner Wallace

    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 further engagement. Bonus for audio-only listeners! I included my first interview with Jim from last year in this episode (video is not available). We talked about his amazing book, The Truth in True Crime. Click here for the transcript Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:23 Overview of the New Graphic Novel 00:46 The Story of Detective Murph 01:12 Themes and Questions Explored in the Novel 01:56 Introduction to J. Warner Wallace 03:01 Jim's Background and Journey to Faith 03:48 Writing the Case for Christianity 05:05 Jimmy's Influence and Comic Book Passion 05:32 Creating the Graphic Novel 10:40 Exploring Human Value and Morality 13:43 The Collaborative Effort Behind the Book 14:57 Engaging Non-Believers Through Storytelling 20:48 The Journey of Faith and Writing 26:43 Realism and Unresolved Cases in the Novel 39:33 The Importance of Multiple Perspectives 39:57 Analyzing Eyewitness Accounts in the Gospels 40:48 Mark's Gospel and Peter's Influence 42:08 Forensic Statement Analysis Techniques 44:03 Personal Journey into Forensic Analysis and Scripture 44:53 The Intersection of Professional Skills and Faith 46:35 Human Nature and the Reliability of Scripture 50:15 Identity Formation and Its Challenges 59:22 Overcoming Trauma and Finding Meaning 01:07:54 The Power of the Gospel and Human Flourishing 01:13:52 Encouragement for Those Facing Suffering Resources and Links Learn more about J. Warner Wallace here 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

    1h 27m
  6. MAR 24

    Olympic Champion Steve Mesler

    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 impacts of peak achievements. Click here for the transcript Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:19 Meet Steve Mesler: Olympic Gold Medalist 01:20 Steve's Journey from Track to Bobsled 03:06 Overcoming Challenges and Pivoting 07:57 The Mental Game: Belief and Conviction 19:00 Training and Making the Olympic Team 21:35 Contaminated Supplements and Olympic Standards 22:08 The Journey to Becoming a Bobsledder 22:36 Olympic Mindset and Team Dynamics 27:20 Winning the Gold Medal 29:28 Post-Olympic Challenges and Depression 35:46 Classroom Champions: Inspiring the Next Generation 43:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources and Links Learn more about Classroom Champions here Follow Steve on Instagram and Twitter for daily inspiration! 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
  7. MAR 17

    While We're Waiting, With Jill and Brad Sullivan

    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 lives. Click here for the transcript 00:00 Introduction to the Self-Brain Surgery Podcast 00:08 Meet Jill and Brad Sullivan 00:12 The Loss of Their Daughter, Hannah 00:29 The Loss to Legacy Shift 00:58 Jill and Brad's Story of Resilience 01:14 A Twist in Their Journey 01:47 Starting the Conversation with Jill and Brad 02:01 Brad and Jill's Background 03:34 Hannah's Diagnosis 05:07 Facing the Diagnosis with Faith 08:05 Hannah's Journey Through Treatment 10:38 Parenting Through Grief 17:08 The Birth of 'While We're Waiting' 21:23 Expanding the Ministry 28:38 Brad's Accident and Recovery 33:01 Words of Encouragement and Advice 34:57 Conclusion and Contact Information Resources and Links Learn more about Jill and Brad's While We're Waiting retreats for bereaved parents 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
4.9
out of 5
367 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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