The Best of You 190: Self-Brain Surgery, Overcoming Trauma, and the Courage to Change How You Think with Dr. Lee Warren
Jan 8, 2026
Dr. Lee Warren, a neurosurgeon and Iraq War veteran, discusses his unique approach to overcoming trauma through what he calls 'self-brain surgery.' He explains how understanding our brain's response to grief and fear can enable us to interrupt negative thought patterns. Warren emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the mind and brain in the healing process, blending faith with neuroscience. His insights reveal that while trauma shapes us, it doesn't dictate our future, encouraging listeners to take control of their thoughts and restore hope.
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From War To Devastating Personal Loss
- Lee Warren describes returning from Iraq, divorcing, remarrying, and later losing his 19-year-old son to stabbing.
- That layered trauma shattered his prior faith and coping systems and launched his search for new meaning.
MRI Moment That Restored Hope
- Lee and his wife watched fMRI research where subjects shifted from worst to best memories and their brains and vitals changed in real time.
- That scene sparked hope and convinced Lee the mind can change the brain, bridging his faith and neuroscience.
Most Thoughts Are False And Repetitive
- About 80% of our daily thoughts are untrue and 90% repeat from day to day, so most thinking isn't accurate or new.
- Because the brain builds structure in response to thought, repeated false thinking automates harmful neural patterns.
