The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast

In this episode, I introduce the concept of self-brain surgery to enhance mental well-being, sharing my personal journey of transforming a chaotic morning routine into a structured start for the day. I discuss the Five S’s: sadness, sickness, stress, being stuck, and settling, and a different Five S's you can transplant to move from trouble to transformation in your life. By incorporating these elements into daily life, particularly in morning rituals, listeners can break free from negativity and promote emotional health. I emphasize the integration of scientific insights with spiritual principles to inspire meaningful change and resilience. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links Self-Brain Surgery Playlist on Spotify 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!)

In this episode, I dive deep into a conversation with Jamie Haigh and Blake Roberts, two accomplished marriage and family therapists who focus their practice on supporting men through various challenges, including the often-taboo subjects of sexual addiction and spiritual abuse. As we explore the intricacies of their journeys, I quickly discover that our discussion takes a significant and meaningful turn, navigating through both the personal and systemic issues at play in the conversations around mental health for men.We discuss the tremendous pressure society places on men to conform to certain ideals of masculinity, which often leads to a culture of silence regarding their struggles. Jamie and Blake share their own experiences with addiction, revealing how societal expectations and internal battling around issues like pornography and spiritual trauma can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation. Their insights are not only relevant for men grappling with similar issues but also resonate with anyone who loves someone facing these challenges.Jamie and Blake's stories resonate painfully with such experiences, providing a perspective that highlights the importance of addressing underlying emotional wounds in order to break free from the cycles of addiction and despair.The conversation naturally shifts toward spiritual abuse, a theme that both Jamie and Blake have grappled with in their pasts. They each recount events where trusted figures in their spiritual communities caused significant harm, leading them to navigate and redefine their faith journey. Blake's reflection on emotional dissonance within his church involvement and Jamie's account of prolonged abuse from a youth leader reveal the complex interplay between faith and personal trauma.As we go deeper, they introduce their initiative, 3% Company, designed to foster a supportive community where men can discuss their struggles candidly, something they refer to as the "3%" of issues often left unspoken. They believe that breaking down the barriers surrounding these conversations is integral to fostering genuine healing and understanding. Their approach is particularly impactful, as they create safe spaces not just for men but for anyone seeking deeper connections with themselves and those around them.We also discuss critical points about recognizing the pain associated with addiction, as emphasized by Dr. Gabor Maté's framework, focusing not on the addiction itself but on understanding the underlying pain that drives individuals to these behaviors. This shift in perspective can open doors to healing, allowing individuals to explore their coping mechanisms on a deeper level rather than merely treating the symptoms.Overall, our conversation paints a vivid picture of hope amidst struggles. Jamie and Blake exemplify how confronting one’s past and indeed the uncomfortable aspects of masculinity can lead to profound transformation. Their work through 3% Company stands as a testament to that potential.In future conversations, we aim to delve deeper into how individuals can find resources to help navigate these challenges, as well as expand on the importance of community in the recovery process. For those interested, Jamie and Blake have created a platform to foster support and provide resources through their podcast and online community at 3% Company, where listeners can find companionship and encouragement along their journeys to healing. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links Three Percent Company website Three Percent on Substack Blake's powerful Substack Jamie and Blake on But Jesus Drank Wine 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!)

In 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!)

In 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 social media algorithms deliberately provoke comparison and self-doubt, fostering an addiction that detracts from the fulfillment and joy that God offers. The discussion highlights Allie's practical strategies for confronting this issue. She encourages listeners to take a “social media reset,” suggesting a 30-day break from social platforms to allow their minds and hearts to heal. As our conversation unfolds, we address the spiritual implications of social media use, emphasizing that it’s not just about reducing screen time but about reorienting one's life toward God's abundant plans. The insights shared not only resonate with women but are applicable to everyone grappling with the pressures of modern life. We challenge the design of social media that keeps users engaged but ultimately unfulfilled, calling for a shift towards a more empathetic and life-giving connection with ourselves and our communities.In essence, our dialogue serves as a clarion call for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the noise of social media to pause, reflect, and take active steps towards living a healthier and more joyful life. Allie’s message is one of hope and restoration, urging us to reclaim our God-given purpose and identity amidst the chaos. Click here for the transcript Resources and Links Allie's new book, Social Media Reset Allie's first book, Wonderfully Made Allie's website 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!)

In 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/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!)

In 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!)

(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 influence real changes in our lives, promoting resilience, hope, and deeper connections with ourselves and others. Today, we learn one more, final approach 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 here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! (Get my free Thought Biopsy Worksheet when you subscribe!)

(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 real changes in our lives, promoting resilience, hope, and deeper connections with ourselves and others. Today, we learn another approach 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 here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! (Get my free Thought Biopsy Worksheet when you subscribe!)

Introducing 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/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!)

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 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 here⁠⁠⁠⁠! (Get my free Thought Biopsy Worksheet when you subscribe!)

Join 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 and Mourning Practical Applications for Everyday Life The Four Steps Explained Embracing the Soul and Mind Connection Conclusion and Call to Action Click here for the transcript Want more tools for rewiring your brain and renewing your mind? Dr. Schwartz's book, Brain Lock Dr. Schwartz's book, The Mind and the Brain Dr. Schwartz's book, You Are Not Your Brain 🎙️ 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!

This 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 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!)

In 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 Maddie Jackson Smith Maddie's Journey of Loss The Impact of Grief Finding Hope After Loss Writing Through Grief The Importance of Connection The Courage to Connect Four Rhythms of Grief Navigating the Valley of Grief Maddie's Grief Course Conclusion and Giveaways Resources and Links Mattie has a powerful 6-week guided course to help you heal. She's given us a 20% discount if you use code BRAINSURGERY at checkout (that's not an affiliate link; just a discount for you!) Mattie's devotional journal, Through the Valley of Grief, is essential if you're hurting Her book ⁠Lemons on Friday⁠ is one of the best books on finding your way through grief I've ever read, and Mattie is on the podcast today to give you hope! Mattie's podcast is incredible: ⁠In Joy Life⁠⁠ (Click here to listen to my appearance on her show)⁠ 📚 More Tools for Changing Your Brain 🎙️ Subscribe to The 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!⁠

In 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 🎙️ Subscribe to The 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.

In 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 Instagram Zach on TikTok 🎙️ 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!