In this special episode of the Dr. Lee Warren Self Brain Surgery podcast, Dr. Lee Warren celebrates the start of Miracle May, a month dedicated to recognizing the everyday miracles that surround us.

This episode features a discussion with Mark Batterson, a New York Times bestselling author, about his new book, A Million Little Miracles.

Batterson shares insights on the inherent miracles in our daily lives, from the micro-level wonders of quantum physics to the awe-inspiring creation of human life. Batterson provides an uplifting message, and emphasizes the importance of gratitude and recognizing God's work in the midst of hardships.

Dr. Warren also explains how the laws of quantum physics affirm that our perspectives can change our realities, offering practical advice on how to harness this understanding to improve mental health and well-being.

Click here for the transcript

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:21 The Concept of Miracle May

00:33 All In August and Mark Batterson's Influence

02:59 Mark Batterson's Special Message

04:27 Encouragement and Book Recommendations

05:33 Replay of Mark Batterson's Episode

08:05 Discussion on Miracles and Faith

10:49 Mark Batterson's Personal Insights

13:46 The Intersection of Science and Faith

23:21 Gratitude and Everyday Miracles

35:29 Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes

Be sure to subscribe to my weekly letter, Self-Brain Surgery⁠ , on Substack, which reached #12 in the rankings of fast-growing science publications last week. Will you help us take our message of faith and neuroscience working together into the top ten by becoming a paid subscriber?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever had a thought or feeling, and then you beat yourself up and say, "I shouldn't feel this way?"

If so, join me for this incredible conversation with Dr. Alison Cook, a therapist specializing in the integration of faith and psychology, to discuss her latest book, I Shouldn't Feel This Way.

We explore common feelings of guilt and self-blame, emphasizing the importance of 'thought biopsies' and self-reflection to better understand and manage emotions. Dr. Cook outlines her three-step process of naming, framing, and braving emotions, and shares insights on dealing with self-sabotage, relational boundaries, and the significance of embracing every step of the healing journey.

Click here for the transcript

Click here to watch the video on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:59 Meet Dr. Alison Cook

03:10 Alison's Journey and Work

04:21 Discussing 'The Best of You'

06:35 Exploring 'I Shouldn't Feel This Way'

10:00 Understanding Liminal Spaces

13:47 Navigating Emotions and Inner Work

17:03 The Role of Faith in Emotional Healing

20:04 Spiritual Warfare and Self-Compassion

21:23 Healing from Shame and Embracing Love

22:30 Recognizing and Addressing Negative Self-Perceptions

23:26 Navigating Toxic Relationships and Setting Boundaries

26:58 The Process of Naming, Framing, and Braving

31:46 Understanding and Overcoming Self-Sabotage

34:03 Coping with Acute Pain and Spiritual Struggles

37:31 Final Thoughts and Resources

Other Resources

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we explore the powerful concepts of selective attention, metacognition, and manual mode as tools for self brain surgery. We explain how these gifts can help us overcome life's challenges, reshape our thinking, and transform our lives. You'll learn about the significance of understanding and controlling your thoughts, and see biblical principles and modern neuroscience connecting to show how we can shift from automated responses to conscious decision-making, leading to better mental health and overall well-being.

Click here for the transcript

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:51 Understanding Self Brain Surgery

03:36 The Power of Selective Attention

12:39 Metacognition: Thinking About Thinking

14:16 Manual Mode: Taking Control of Your Mind

18:54 Biblical Insights and Practical Applications

23:43 Conclusion and Call to Action

Links and Resources

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Self Brain Surgery podcast, we have a powerful conversation with New York Times bestselling author Lee Strobel.

Lee is a former atheist turned Christian and New York Times bestselling author, to discuss his latest book, Seeing the Supernatural. The conversation delves into the existence of a realm beyond the physical world, investigating topics such as angels, demons, mystical dreams, and near-death experiences. Strobel, renowned for his investigative approach, shares compelling evidence and personal stories that challenge both skeptics and believers to reconsider the supernatural.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:10 Introducing Lee Strobel and His New Book

01:05 Exploring the Supernatural: Angels, Demons, and Mystical Dreams

01:44 The Intersection of Science and Faith

02:36 Lee Strobel's Investigative Approach

02:53 Personal Reflections and Recommendations

03:07 The Importance of Understanding the Supernatural

03:36 Opening Prayer and Setting the Stage

04:58 Interview with Lee Strobel Begins

06:09 The Evidence for a Supernatural Realm

06:52 Dreams, Visions, and Near-Death Experiences

11:00 The Role of Science and Philosophy

19:25 Healing Miracles and Medical Evidence

23:00 Personal Testimonies and Miraculous Healings

26:17 Pre-Death Visions: Real or Hallucination?

27:17 Personal Stories of Pre-Death Visions

28:52 Biblical References to Angels and Visions

33:19 Demonic Encounters and Possessions

36:35 Angelic Interventions and Personal Encounters

41:51 Skepticism About Ghosts and Psychics

44:07 The Resurrection of Jesus: Evidence and Impact

46:48 Conclusion and Book Giveaway

Click here for the transcript

Click here to watch the video version from Descript

Other Resources

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Action April!

Today, I want to encourage you to to align your efforts with your true calling and take decisive actions towards your goals.

We talk about the importance of focusing on meaningful tasks, eliminating unnecessary commitments, and managing one's thoughts to overcome fears and challenges. This episode will help you smash neuroscience and prayer, preparation, and strategic thinking to get after personal and spiritual growth.

Click here for the transcript

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update

00:50 Action April: Real-Time Connection

01:52 Frontal Lobe Friday: Action April Explained

03:43 The Neuroscience of Change

04:56 Aligning Efforts with Calling

09:08 Overcoming Challenges and Taking Action

14:54 The Power of Gratitude and Critical Thinking

17:54 Commit to Action: Practical Steps

28:58 Conclusion and Next Steps

Resources:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices