Episode 24

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Published on:

17th Sep 2025

From Walter Reed to Writer's Desk: A Surgeon's Journey Through War, Wellness, and Words

In this riveting episode of "Spirits and Stories with host Donald Dunn engages with the remarkable Gary Simons, a brain surgeon with a storied career beginning at Walter Reed to his role as a chief of neurosurgery and educator. Simons shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by military influences to his decision to join the military to aid his medical school journey. His profound insights into brain surgery, dealing with critical conditions, and the connection between physical wellness and mental health offer invaluable lessons. As a prolific writer, Simons also dives into his literary world, discussing his books on burnout, wellness, and his medical psychological thriller, "Death's Pale Face." Check out Gary's website https://garyrsimonds.com/

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About the Podcast

Spirits and Stories With Donald Dunn
Exploring meaning, faith, and the unseen through honest conversations shaped by lived experience and reflection.
Spirits and Stories with Donald Dunn is a storytelling podcast centered on real life conversations with people shaped by experience, curiosity, and the search for meaning.

Each episode explores the human side of belief, identity, resilience, and personal transformation through honest, unfiltered conversations. Rather than offering easy answers, the show creates space for reflection, curiosity, and deeper understanding of the stories that shape how we live.

Spirits and Stories is for listeners drawn to thoughtful storytelling, meaningful conversations, and exploring life at the edge of the seen and unseen.

About your host

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Donald Dunn