Advertise on podcast: Spiritual Brain Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren

A special announcement regarding the future of Spiritual Brain Surgery, and a short encouragement for you. Resources and Links:📖 My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, ⁠⁠I've Seen the End of You 🎙️ ⁠Subscribe to The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast⁠ for weekly strategies to change your brain and life. 📖 Grab my book ⁠Hope Is the First Dose⁠. (00:05) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (00:44) - Podcast on Hiatus (01:29) - Preparing for Book Launch (03:42) - Changes in Podcast Structure (05:00) - Website Updates (07:34) - Importance of Support (10:54) - Abundant Life Amidst Hardship (17:35) - Transforming Trauma into Strength (19:05) - The Beauty of Resilience (23:46) - A New Chapter Ahead

You’ve been told that body image is about self-esteem. Or confidence. Or that it’s just a “vanity issue” you need to pray your way out of. But what if the issue isn’t your reflection, but it’s your wiring? In this final episode of the Spiritual Brain Surgery takeover series, guest host Leanne Ellington dismantles one of the biggest lies women have been taught: that if we just loved ourselves more, the body shame would go away. Through brain science, lived experience, and Spirit-led truth, Leanne reveals how body image isn’t a surface-level issue—it’s a deeply embedded neurological pattern. She shares the story of her own unraveling (even after losing 100 pounds), how the Anterior Cingulate Cortex shapes your self-image, and why your mirror might be reflecting trauma instead of truth. You’ll walk away with a 3-step framework to start rewriting your self-image—God’s way: Step 1: Unlearn the Lies – Dismantle the false beliefs you inherited about your worth, your body, and what makes you lovable, and take off the mental “backpack” you were never meant to carry.Step 2: Regulate the Noise – Calm the inner static that keeps you stuck in fear and body shame by creating nervous system safety, so you can finally feel the love and truth God is offering.Step 3: Rebuild the Mirror – Rewire the way you see yourself by aligning your self-image with how God already sees you: worthy, chosen, and delightfully made—right now, not 20 pounds from now.This isn’t about body positivity. It’s about identity alignment. Because when the mirror reflects how God sees you, you don’t have to fight to love yourself. You simply receive it. Resources and Links Watch Leanne's on-demand workshop.Listen to Outweigh Podcast.Listen to What's God Got To Do With It? Podcast. (00:05) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (01:02) - Exploring Body Image and Shame (02:17) - The Story of Transformation (04:53) - The Weight of Body Image (07:23) - Body Image: A Brain Problem (11:37) - Understanding the Brain's Role (13:01) - The Power of Neuroplasticity (15:16) - Rewiring Your Self-Image (17:30) - Framework for Transformation (20:30) - Step-by-Step Healing Process (22:57) - Finding Safety in Stillness (25:11) - Rebuilding Your Mirror (27:17) - Identity Alignment and Acceptance (29:00) - Conclusion and Call to Action

Ozempic might be quieting the food noise for some women, but what happens when the medication wears off, the weight comes back, or the brain circuits underneath remain untouched? In Part 2 of the Spiritual Brain Surgery takeover series, guest host Leanne Ellington dives into what she calls the brain-based "Ozempic Effect", a natural, sustainable way to quiet the food noise by working WITH your brain’s built-in circuitry for peace, safety, and self-control. This episode isn’t here to judge the medication—or debate whether you should or shouldn’t take it. We’re not here to talk about the prescription- we’re here to talk about the pattern. Because no matter how the food noise gets quieted, if you don’t rewire what’s underneath, it’s just a temporary fix. Inside, Leanne breaks down: The exact brain circuits that drive food obsession, and how emotional eating, cravings, and compulsive thoughts are wired in neurologically (not rooted in a lack of discipline)Why medications like Ozempic can temporarily turn down the “food noise," but don’t rewire the deeper brain loops causing it in the first placeHow to create a natural "Ozempic effect" in your brain by calming your nervous system, retraining your emotional coping patterns, and rewiring the food-seeking circuit, for goodThis episode blends cutting-edge brain science with Spirit-led truth, and gives you a roadmap to heal your brain, reclaim your peace, and end the war with food once and for all. Because when your brain is rewired for truth, the noise finally goes quiet. Resources and Links Watch Leanne's on-demand workshop.Listen to Outweigh Podcast.Listen to What's God Got To Do With It? Podcast. (00:05) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (01:43) - The Ozempic Discussion Begins (03:01) - Addressing Emotional Eating (04:53) - Understanding the Food-Seeking Circuit (07:12) - The Limitations of Ozempic (08:53) - Creating the Natural Ozempic Effect (11:55) - Rewiring Emotional Patterns (16:02) - Transforming Beliefs and Identity (20:32) - Recap and Key Takeaways (25:24) - Upcoming Episode Teaser (27:23) - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

You think your struggle with food is about willpower. Or that your body image issues are just about confidence. But what if the real cost isn’t on the scale, but it’s actually in your spirit? In this powerful opening to the Spiritual Brain Surgery takeover series, guest host Leanne Ellington pulls back the curtain on what food and body obsession is really stealing from you. From missed moments with your kids to constant inner criticism and spiritual disconnection, she exposes how fixation around food and your body hijacks your peace, your presence, and your identity. But this isn’t just about the pain. It’s about the pathway to healing. Leanne reveals how your brain was designed by God to heal, and introduces the science behind how that healing actually happens—through identity rewiring, spiritual renewal, and working WITH your brain instead of against it. This episode will help you: Understand how food and body obsession hijacks your God-given peace, rewires your brain for fear and shame, and drains your spiritual bandwidthFinally put words to the invisible war you’ve been fighting—between your faith and your fixation, your logic and your longings See why white-knuckling through cravings or repeating “I love my body” in the mirror won’t work if your nervous system still feels unsafe—and what to do instead to rewire it at the rootSee why white-knuckling through cravings or repeating “I love my body” in the mirror won’t work if your nervous system still feels unsafe—and what to do instead to rewire it at the rootBecause God doesn’t just want your body free. He wants you free. Resources and Links Previous Spiritual Brain Surgery Guest Host Series: Leanne Ellington's Path to Healing and Hope, Part 1Previous Spiritual Brain Surgery Guest Host Series: Leanne Ellington on Science and Faith, Part 2Watch Leanne's on-demand workshop.  Listen to Outweigh Podcast.Listen to What's God Got To Do With It? Podcast. (00:05) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery Podcast (01:36) - The Spiritual Cost of Food and Body Fixation (04:35) - Exploring Ozempic and Brain Function (05:37) - Understanding Body Image and Self-Worth (08:00) - The Impact of Food Fixation on Spirituality (12:08) - The Science of the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (14:42) - Healing Beyond Discipline and Willpower (16:57) - The Power of Renewing Your Mind (19:26) - Naming the Bondage of Food Obsession (21:30) - Steps to Awareness in Healing (24:29) - Inviting God into the Healing Process (27:11) - Repetition and Truth in Rewiring the Brain (30:05) - Regulation: Calming the Nervous System (31:15) - Integration of Science and Faith (34:30) - Reclaiming Your Spiritual Bandwidth (37:44) - Conclusion and Invitation for Further Healing

In this episode of Tuesdays with Tata on Spiritual Brain Surgery, we take a look at Jesus's role as our high priest. Tata goes through the book of Hebrews and shows us that in Jesus, we have a priest who knows what we're going through, and thus understands us. Whatever you're facing, this episode will give you confidence that you have a friend you can trust to help you deal with it. Resources and Links:📖 My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, ⁠⁠I've Seen the End of You 🎙️ ⁠Subscribe to The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast⁠ for weekly strategies to change your brain and life. 📖 Grab my book ⁠Hope Is the First Dose⁠. (00:05) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (02:23) - Case for Christ in Hebrews (19:25) - Learning Obedience Through Suffering (28:49) - Comfort in Times of Suffering (31:27) - The Presence of Our High Priest (41:36) - A Prayer for the Hurting (42:43) - Reflections on Suffering and Healing (44:15) - Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion

Mattie Jackson Smith's World Was Shattered(Bringing you this bonus episode in preparation for a brand new conversation with Mattie that will drop Friday on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast) Just shy of her one-year anniversary with her husband Ben, a seemingly small accident left her widowed and wondering where God was. Her story is full of grief, pain, and loss, but lands on hope and a future full of God's kept promises. 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)Mattie's book is available everywhere books are sold.  (00:06) - Introduction to Maddie Jackson-Smith (02:07) - The Importance of Faith in Hard Times (08:05) - Maddie's Journey Through Grief (14:09) - The Struggles of Doubt and Anger (19:34) - Identity and Acceptance in Loss (24:38) - A Turning Point: Hands Up, Hands Off (30:44) - Finding Redemption and New Joy (32:55) - Advice for Those in Fresh Grief

This episode of The Spiritual Brain Surgery Podcast is guest-hosted by my good friend Caroline Beidler, a writer, and long-term recovery advocate. Caroline shares her personal journey with addiction and trauma, emphasizing the complex and multifaceted nature of addiction. She discusses how understanding the biological impacts of substance use and the concept of neuroplasticity can foster recovery and healing. Caroline critiques outdated campaigns like 'This is Your Brain on Drugs,' advocating for a hopeful approach to addiction that combines faith, community, and grace. The discussion includes insights into how recovery can restore cognitive function and emotional stability, providing a message of hope for individuals and their loved ones struggling with addiction. This one will help you if you're struggling with these issues, or if you love someone who is in recovery, dealing with addiction, or suffering from trauma or tragedy. Chapters 0:10 Introduction to Recovery and Hope 2:38 Caroline Takes the Helm 4:14 Understanding Addiction and Its Impact 7:39 The Truth About Addiction 10:34 The Science of Recovery 17:02 Neuroplasticity and Change 21:43 Healing Through Recovery 22:57 Embracing the Promise of Recovery 24:03 Conclusion and Resources Links and resourcesCaroline's websiteCaroline's most recent book, You Are Not Your TraumaCaroline's book, Downstairs ChurchCircle of Chairs, Caroline's powerful Substack community (00:10) - Introduction to Recovery and Hope (02:38) - Caroline Takes the Helm (04:14) - Understanding Addiction and Its Impact (07:39) - The Truth About Addiction (10:34) - The Science of Recovery (17:02) - Neuroplasticity and Change (21:43) - Healing Through Recovery (22:57) - Embracing the Promise of Recovery (24:03) - Conclusion and Resources

In this episode of Tuesdays with Tata on Spiritual Brain Surgery, Dr. Lee Warren and Tata delve into the significance of the Lord's Prayer as a model for personal prayer. They explore the impact of each part of the prayer, emphasizing the importance of connecting with God relationally, seeking His will, and relying on His provisions. They also discuss handling temptation, spiritual warfare, and the necessity to forgive others. The conversation highlights the global community's need for prayer and support, and culminates with Tata leading a heartfelt prayer. ChaptersIntroduction and Technological FeatsA Funny Running IncidentCommunity and Prayer RequestsThe Lord's Prayer and Its SignificanceUnderstanding God's Will and SufferingUnderstanding the Lord's PrayerDaily Dependence on GodForgiveness and ReconciliationSpiritual Warfare and TemptationThe Power and Glory of GodThe Importance of PrayerClosing Prayer and Reflections Resources and Links:📖 My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, ⁠⁠I've Seen the End of You 🎙️ ⁠Subscribe to The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast⁠ for weekly strategies to change your brain and life. 📖 Grab my book ⁠Hope Is the First Dose⁠. (00:09) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (00:46) - New Technology Breakthrough (04:42) - The Importance of Prayer (07:07) - Understanding the Lord's Prayer (11:17) - Connecting with God Relationally (14:25) - The Role of Free Will (18:54) - Spiritual Warfare and Temptation (24:24) - Closing Thoughts on Prayer (26:30) - Encouragement to Practice Prayer (32:33) - Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode, Dr. Lee Warren dives deep into the neurobiology of suffering, building on last week's theological exploration of the same topic. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both the spiritual and scientific perspectives on suffering to effectively manage it. The discussion covers the physiological processes involved in pain perception and chronic pain syndromes, highlighting the roles of neuroplasticity and cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Warren shares insights from medical research and personal experiences, offering practical steps to help individuals reframe and revalue their pain for better mental health. He also underscores the significance of integrating faith and science to navigate through life's challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:33 The Neurobiology of Suffering 10:54 Understanding Pain Processing 17:11 Chronic Pain and Neuroplasticity 25:54 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Hope 35:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources and Links:📖 My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, ⁠⁠I've Seen the End of You 🎙️ ⁠Subscribe to The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast⁠ for weekly strategies to change your brain and life. 📖 Grab my book ⁠Hope Is the First Dose⁠. (00:08) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (00:44) - The Neurobiology of Suffering (04:14) - Understanding Pain and Suffering (09:06) - Chronic Pain and Its Impact (11:38) - Pain Processing and Survival (24:44) - Neuroplasticity and Chronic Pain (26:29) - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Insights (31:17) - Reframing Pain and Suffering (35:23) - Embracing Neurobiology for Healing

If God is Good, Why is There Suffering? A hard look at the biggest question: why is life so hard if God loves us? Here's a look at the answer, and what to do about it! Scripture: Romans 5:3-5, James 1:2-4, Proverbs 2:10 Book Mentioned: Is God Real? by Lee StrobelChapters00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery01:00 Purpose and Vision of the Podcast01:41 Exploring the Topic of Suffering01:43 Revisiting Early Episodes02:08 The Neurobiology of Suffering02:28 Season Two and Subscriber Information03:35 Deep Dive into Suffering03:57 Personal Reflections on Suffering04:43 Theodicy and Philosophical Questions05:31 Listener Questions and Chronic Suffering06:30 Personal Story and Theodicy12:22 Philosophical Insights on Suffering18:20 The Bear Analogy20:32 Understanding Suffering Through Analogy21:51 God's Perspective on Suffering22:22 The Role of Free Will in Suffering23:11 The Origin of Human Suffering23:56 The Bigger Picture of Good and Evil24:21 Critiquing God and the Long Narrative25:53 God's Plan for Redemption27:00 Personal Growth Through Suffering29:23 The Purpose of Suffering34:43 The Story of the Thai Cave Rescue38:19 The Ongoing Battle Against Evil39:31 Finding Strength in Faith Resources and Links:📖 My book, 2021 ECPA Memoir/Biography of the Year, ⁠⁠I've Seen the End of You 🎙️ ⁠Subscribe to The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast⁠ for weekly strategies to change your brain and life. 📖 Grab my book ⁠Hope Is the First Dose⁠. (00:08) - Introduction to Spiritual Brain Surgery (00:44) - The Purpose of Suffering (03:25) - Exploring the Neurobiology of Suffering (03:51) - Why We Suffer (05:42) - The Nature of God and Suffering (10:41) - Theodicy and Our Questions (15:28) - Finding Hope in Suffering (20:27) - Perspective on Suffering (25:05) - Growth Through Pain (31:05) - The Purpose Behind Our Suffering (32:10) - God’s Presence in Our Pain (35:29) - The Story of Redemption (38:17) - Conclusion: The Answer is Jesus

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

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

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 Podcast for 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

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 Life by Jeffrey Schwartz and Rebecca Gladding (This link is for pre-order of the upcoming audiobook release) 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 life.📖 Grab my book Hope Is the First Dose.✉️ Get my weekly Self-Brain Surgery letter! (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

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