EPISODE · Apr 14, 2025 · 56 MIN
Is tackle football putting our children’s brains at risk?
from Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman · host Bruce Parkman
Send us Fan MailIn this eye-opening episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, we sit down with brain injury advocate Keana McMahon to explore the devastating effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and repetitive brain trauma — especially in youth sports like football.Kiana courageously shares her personal story, reflecting on the tragic loss of her late ex-husband, NFL player Justin Strzelczyk, to CTE — a neurodegenerative disease caused by repeated head injuries. Together, Bruce and Kiana break down the dangers of concussions in youth football, the resistance from sports culture to confront brain health, and why change is critical now more than ever. 🎙 In this powerful episode, we discuss:· The warning signs and symptoms of CTE· The role of parents, coaches, and organizations in protecting young athletes· How the NFL and sports culture have downplayed brain trauma risks· The importance of flag football over tackle football for youth· Advocacy efforts and legislation driving brain injury awareness· What every parent needs to know about concussions and brain health This conversation is a must-listen for parents, athletes, coaches, and anyone passionate about mental health, player safety, and protecting the next generation from the silent epidemic of brain trauma. 👉 Don't forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE to Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more expert conversations on brain injury, mental health, and recovery.Support brain injury advocacy and join the conversation about changing the future of sports safety. Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman FoundationSupport The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today!https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW! Chapters00:00 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma01:52 Kiana McMahon's Personal Journey04:22 Recognizing Symptoms of CTE08:34 The Role of Psychologists in Identifying CTE10:39 Cultural Resistance to Acknowledging CTE13:05 The NFL's Influence and Advocacy16:02 Connecting with Advocacy Groups18:45 Historical Context of Football and Safety20:33 Legislative Efforts for Safer Sports24:01 The Importance of Awareness and Education28:03 Research Findings on Brain Damage30:11 The Path Forward for Advocacy and Change32:32 The Hope for Change in Concussion Research34:25 Taking Action Against Brain Injuries35:54 Cultural Pressures in Youth Sports39:56 The Importance of Organized Sports43:51 The Role of Coaches in Youth Sports49:10 Changing the Culture of Youth Sports52:51 Advocating for Brain Health Awareness https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/Produced by Security Halt Media
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Send us Fan Mail In this eye-opening episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, we sit down with brain injury advocate Keana McMahon to explore the devastating effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and repetitive brain trauma — especially in youth sports like football. Kiana courageously shares her personal story, reflecting on the tragic loss of her late ex-husband, NFL player Justin Strzelczyk, to CTE — a neurodegenerative disease caused by repeated head injuries. Together, Br...
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Is tackle football putting our children’s brains at risk?
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