

The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 17, 2025 • 52min
Quantum Decision-Making (S12E23)
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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Self Brain Surgery Podcast00:28 The Power of Observation02:34 Challenging Hardwired Beliefs07:32 Quantum Decision-Making Explained08:07 Classical vs. Quantum Physics13:44 The Impact of Quantum Physics on Neuroscience15:29 The Power of Quantum Decision-Making26:46 The Power of Pausing and Reflecting27:08 Redefining Trauma and Response30:46 Quantum Decision-Making Explained32:32 The Neuroscience of Change34:57 Faith and Quantum Decision-Making40:21 Practical Applications of Quantum Prayer48:27 Challenge: Engage in Quantum Decision-Making49:02 Conclusion and Call to ActionClick 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!

Feb 10, 2025 • 58min
Exploring the Mind-Brain Connection (S12E22)
Discover the transformative power of self-brain surgery, where changing your thoughts can change your life. Delve into the crucial distinction between the mind and the brain, shedding light on common misconceptions that hold you back. Learn how to automate healthier reactions and develop new brain habits for improved well-being. Explore the intersection of science and spirituality, and become the architect of your own life, taking charge of your mental and emotional landscape to unlock your true potential.

Feb 3, 2025 • 56min
Never Too Old to Heal (S12E21)
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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and New Beginnings01:39 Understanding the Diderot Effect05:55 Recalibrating for a Better Year15:46 The Power of Healing and Change21:58 10 Rules for Abundant Living29:18 The Power of Neuroplasticity30:11 Embracing God's Promises31:05 Healing Beyond Physical Illness32:35 Overcoming Negativity37:16 Finding Hope in the Darkness39:42 Transforming Trauma44:43 Cultivating Happiness46:36 Taking Action Against Overwhelm47:44 Spiritual Cleansing and Renewal50:08 The Journey of Change52:08 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsClick 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!

Jan 28, 2025 • 56min
It's Not Impossible, No Matter How it Feels (S12E20)
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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Self Brain Surgery00:19 Theology and Faith01:46 Theology Monday and Podcast Promotion02:44 Sponsor Message: Mitopure03:40 Science and Faith: Complementary Paths07:39 Monuments and Footprints10:06 The Power of Community14:47 The Role of Faith in Hard Times22:59 Self Brain Surgery and Upcoming Projects26:05 Facing Impossible Situations28:35 Engage Your Frontal Lobe29:26 Changing Trains of Thought31:28 Crossroads and Monuments32:25 AirDoctor Pro Sponsor Message33:45 Memories and Footprints44:19 God's Impossible Feats48:21 Change Your Mind, Change Your Life54:03 Final Thoughts and FarewellClick 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)

Jan 20, 2025 • 51min
Checking for Drift (S12E19)
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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and New Year Reflections02:43 Understanding Approach Drift in Surgery08:07 Applying Surgical Precision to Life Goals14:39 Practical Tips for Habit Formation19:49 Defining a Successful Year24:53 Inspiration from Seth Godin25:21 Reflecting on Personal Goals25:51 Seth Godin's Insight: Does It Work?26:43 Aligning Actions with Intentions28:12 Overcoming Mental Barriers31:21 The Importance of Intentionality38:22 Pathophysiology and Self Brain Surgery46:58 Implementing Change and Moving ForwardClick 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!

Jan 13, 2025 • 47min
War Stories #1: Going to War (S12E18)
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!
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:34 Reflecting on 20 Years Since Deployment01:17 Lessons from the Iraq War02:14 Applying Self Brain Surgery to Life's Battles02:36 First War Story: Receiving Orders03:50 Sponsor Message: Timeline05:17 Preparing for Deployment08:11 Facing the Unknown in Combat11:32 Emotional and Personal Struggles12:37 Types of Wars: Expected vs. Unexpected13:27 Prehab: Preparing for Known Battles16:46 Orders in Hand: Emotional Preparation20:32 The Importance of Preparation23:12 Biblical Perspective on Life's Struggles24:09 Finding Faith in Hard Times24:34 Preparing for Life's Challenges24:59 Defining Your Belief System26:04 Building Resilient Relationships26:19 The Importance of Mental Preparation26:47 Daily Gratitude Practice28:32 Facing Life's Inevitable Wars28:50 Planning for Potential Marital Issues30:58 Financial Preparedness32:32 Personal War Stories35:46 The Impact of War on Personal Growth38:14 The Power of Sharing War Stories40:07 The Role of Faith and Community43:53 Conclusion: Embracing Hope and ChangeThis 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

Jan 6, 2025 • 38min
Science Spotlight #1: Dr. Anurag Singh on Mitochondria and Aging (S12E17)
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 transcriptChapters00:00 Introduction to 2025 and Science Spotlights00:34 Understanding Mitochondria01:14 The Aging Process and Mitochondria02:57 Introducing Urolithin A04:48 Interview with Dr. Anurag Singh05:23 Dr. Singh's Background and Research09:15 Mitochondria and Aging12:32 Gut Health and Mitochondria15:01 Urolithin A and Muscle Health19:49 Brain Health and Urolithin A25:49 Timeline and MitoPure Products31:26 Conclusion and Health TipsThis 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!

Jan 2, 2025 • 48min
Another Beautiful Life with Tricia Zody (S12E16)
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 transcriptChapters00:00 Welcome to 2025: A New Beginning00:31 Facing Hardships and Finding Hope02:12 Introducing Tricia Zody: A Journey of Resilience03:15 A Conversation with Tricia Zody05:21 Understanding Pain and the Brain12:29 The Impact of Words and Moving Forward22:36 Book Availability and Upcoming Audiobook22:53 The Journey Through Loss and Faith26:14 Crisis of Faith and God's Sovereignty32:25 Spiritual Warfare and Overcoming Darkness38:27 The Power of Truth and Preparation39:38 Conclusion and Book GiveawayThis 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!

Dec 30, 2024 • 1h
Use Your BRAIN for a Breakthrough Year (S12E15)
In this episode of The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast, Dr. Warren walks listeners through actionable steps to prepare for 2025, equipping them with the tools to make it their best year yet—regardless of the challenges they may face. The key lies in adopting the mindset of a self-brain surgeon, taking control of your thoughts, habits, and disciplines to create lasting change.Chapters0:16 Introduction to 20259:53 The Power of Self-Brain Surgery17:16 Winners vs. Losers26:12 Personal Story and Lessons33:23 Setting Goals for 202543:26 The Framework of Brain Goals55:39 Embracing Change and Growth59:51 Conclusion and Call to ActionKey Themes and Takeaways:
What Is Self-Brain Surgery?
The Power of Perspective
Mindset for Winners
Setting Brain Goals (Bold, Relevant, Actionable, Important, Nurturing)
Journaling and Tracking Progress
Personal Stories and Faith Integration
Practical Application
Reflection and Call to Action:
Reflect on how past mindsets or external focus have held them back.
Begin crafting BRAIN goals that align with their mission and values.
Embrace the tools of self-brain surgery to change their minds and their lives, starting today.
Resources and Links:
Acres of Diamonds by Jentezen Franklin
Almost Everything: Notes on Hope by Anne Lamott
10% Happier by Dan Harris
Click here for the computer-generated transcript of this episode
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!

Dec 23, 2024 • 28min
Life-Changing Gifts to Give Yourself this Christmas (S12E14)
In this episode, we explore the concept of self-brain surgery in the context of the Christmas season, offering reflections on personal growth and healing. We present three key gifts: the understanding that you are not defined solely by your brain, the realization that you already possess the tools needed to thrive, and the practice of mindful engagement with your thoughts and feelings. Learning to embrace transformation and take ownership of your narrative will ultimately foster a life filled with renewal and possibility as we approach the new year.Click here for the computer-generated transcriptChapters0:06 Christmas Blessings and Gifts3:05 Tools for Hope and Healing8:24 The Power of Your Mind13:04 Embrace Your Inner Strength18:37 Break Free from Automatic Thinking25:25 Transform Your Mind, Transform Your LifeOur sponsor for this episode is AirDoctor Pro. Head to 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!Be sure to check out my latest book, Hope Is the First DoseSign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here


