In this episode, I speak with my good friend Christopher Cook, author of Healing, What You Can't Erase, about navigating wilderness periods of disconnection from God during hardship.
Chris shares his personal journey through grief and health struggles, illustrating how faith can transform these experiences. We discuss the importance of grounding ourselves in Scripture and seeking God's presence for peace. Chris shows us that healing often occurs through recognizing God's closeness in suffering and the value of community in processing pain.
Click here for the transcript
Resources and Links
Check out Chris's website here.
Chris is on Substack! Here's one of my favorites of his posts.
Chris's book Healing What You Can't Erase: Transform Your Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Health from the Inside Out.
Chris has an incredible podcast and YouTube Channel!
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!)
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From Rupture to Repair (S12E83)
In this episode, I discuss the intersection of neuroscience and faith with Cyd and Dr. Geoff Holsclaw, authors of the new book Landscapes of the Soul.
We explore how attachment theory can help address feelings of disconnection in our spiritual lives, focusing on the importance of relational attachment and early experiences. We examine the four emotional landscapes- jungle, desert, war zone, and pasture- and discuss strategies for nurturing secure connections with God and others.
The episode emphasizes the transformative power of vulnerability and awareness in fostering joy and intimacy. Ultimately, we highlight pathways to deeper connection and spiritual fulfillment, along with a chance to win a copy of Landscapes of the Soul.
Click here for the transcript
Resources and Links
Cyd and Geoff's new book, Landscapes of the Soul
The Holsclaw's website
Geoff's powerful writing on Substack
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!)
Pre-order my new book, The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery
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The Girl on the Bathroom Floor (S12E82)
In this episode, I talk with Amber Emily Smith about her devastating experience following the drowning of her son, River. Amber shares insights from her new book, The Girl on the Bathroom Floor, reflecting on grief, healing, and the duality of joy and sorrow.
We discuss how she and her husband, musician Granger Smith, took practical steps to navigate their loss together and protect their marriage. We talk about her devastating second loss, another "bathroom floor" moment when she suffered a miscarriage.
This conversation offers comfort and encouragement for anyone grappling with loss.
Click here for the transcript
Resources and Links
Amber's book, The Girl on the Bathroom Floor
Amber's website (merchandise, her foundation, and more!)
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!)
Pre-order my new book, The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery
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Honoring the Struggle (S12E81)
In this episode, I have a powerful conversation with Aundi Kolber, an author and therapist specializing in trauma. We explore how past experiences shape healing, emphasizing the importance of honoring pain rather than suppressing it.
Aundi shares her personal insights on complex PTSD and the concept of 'trying softer' to foster awareness of emotional needs.
We discuss the neuroscience of trauma, strategies for expanding our window of tolerance, and the role of compassion in healing. Additionally, we touch on Aundi's newest book, Take What You Need. This conversation serves as an invitation to embrace healing and self-discovery.
Click here for the transcript (Note: Computer-generated transcripts are not perfect.)
Resources and Links
Aundi's website
Aundi's new book, Take What You Need
Aundi's book, Strong Like Water
Aundi's book, Try Softer
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!)
Pre-order my new book, The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery
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Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic (S12E80)
In this episode, I welcome back my friend Jon Seidl, author of Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, as he shares his profound journey of grappling with alcoholism through the lens of his faith.
Jon recounts his struggles and a pivotal moment that ignited his path to recovery, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying issues rather than just the addiction itself. He outlines a four-step process for transformation that includes abiding in Christ and practicing radical vulnerability, showcasing how a genuine relationship with Jesus provides a foundation for true healing.
Our discussion highlights the significance of authenticity in community and the power of sharing struggles to foster support and accountability. Jon's story serves as an inspiring reminder of resilience and the ongoing journey toward spiritual growth, encouraging listeners to confront their challenges with honesty and faith.
Click here for the transcript
Resources and Links
Jon's new book, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic
Jon's first book, Finding Rest: A Survivor's Guide to Navigating the Valleys of Anxiety, Faith, and Life
Jon Seidl's website
Click here to subscribe to Jon's powerful, daily writing on Substack
Follow Jon on Instagram
Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here!
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.