Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman

Bruce Parkman
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Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is presented by The Mac Parkman FoundationThe mission of this show and the foundation is To serve as a source of information, resources, and communications to the community of parents, coaches/Athletic trainers, medical staff, and athletes that are affected by sports-related concussions and to raise awareness of the long-term implications of concussive and sub-concussive trauma to our children.Broken Brains will also explore how Concussive Trauma impacts our Service Members and Veterans.Join us every week as Bruce interviews leaders and experts in various Medical fields, as well as survivors of Concussive trauma.  Produced by Security Halt Media

  1. 2d ago

    Dr. Nicole F. Roberts on Repetitive Brain Trauma, Youth Sports Safety and Concussion Prevention | Broken Brains Ep. 113

    Send us Fan Mail Why do we continue to overlook repetitive brain trauma in youth sports, even as awareness of concussions and long-term neurological health continues to grow? In Episode 113 of the Broken Brains Podcast, host Bruce Parkman sits down with Dr. Nicole F. Roberts, a public health expert, neuroscientist, researcher, and CEO of the Lee Steinberg Foundation for Brain Health, to discuss the challenges of preventing repetitive brain injuries and the urgent need to improve brain health education for children, athletes, and families. Dr. Roberts explains why traumatic brain injury (TBI), repetitive head impacts, and sports-related concussions remain difficult public health challenges. From the invisible nature of brain injuries to the cultural importance of contact sports, she explores how misinformation, denial, and limited resources can prevent meaningful conversations about athlete safety. The discussion examines youth football, concussion prevention, childhood brain development, sports safety policies, sleep and brain health, and practical strategies for reducing unnecessary head impacts. Dr. Roberts emphasizes that protecting young athletes doesn't require eliminating sports. Instead, schools, parents, and coaches can focus on education, appropriate recovery, reduced contact during practice, and safer approaches to athletic development. Bruce and Dr. Roberts also explore the importance of communicating brain health through positive outcomes rather than fear. By connecting brain health to athletic performance, resilience, and longevity, she believes advocates can reach broader audiences and encourage healthier decisions. Dr. Roberts shares how she worked with sports agent and brain health advocate Lee Steinberg to develop the Brain Health Summit, bringing together neuroscientists, researchers, professional athletes, technology leaders, policymakers, and military brain health advocates. Episode 113 offers an educational discussion about repetitive brain trauma, concussion awareness, public health advocacy, youth sports safety, and the future of brain injury prevention. The goal isn't to take sports away from children. It's to make sports healthier and safer for the next generation. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.  Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/ Chapters 00:00 Why Broken Brains focuses on repetitive brain trauma 02:50 Roberts’ path from neuroscience interests to public health 07:06 Why brain injury stays invisible and difficult to discuss 10:26 How sports and military service become “their” problem 16:10 The tobacco playbook and the cost of denial 20:27 Why prevention must work for schools and volunteer coaches 27:55 Reframing the message around positive outcomes 32:29 Safer development, multi-sport athletes, and rest 39:09 How Roberts and Lee Steinberg built the Brain Health Summit 48:00 What summit themes reveal about brain health 55:46 Access, family choices, and flag football 59:13 The Lee Steinberg Foundation and what comes next Support Broken Brains Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation  Produced by Security Halt Media

    Dr. Nicole F. Roberts on Repetitive Brain Trauma, Youth Sports Safety and Concussion Prevention | Broken Brains Ep. 113

  2. Oct 22

    Bruce Parkman on Youth Contact Sports, Concussion Prevention and Protecting Children's Brains | Broken Brains

    Send us Fan Mail Are youth football and other contact sports putting children's developing brains at unnecessary risk? In this solo episode of the Broken Brains Podcast, host and brain injury advocate Bruce Parkman examines the risks of repetitive head impacts in youth sports, the science of concussion and brain trauma, and what parents and coaches should understand before allowing children to participate in contact sports. Bruce explores how impacts can cause the brain to move within the skull, potentially stretching nerve fibers and affecting neurological function. He discusses why developing brains deserve particular attention, the potential consequences of repeated head impacts, and his recommendation that parents consider delaying collision sports until at least age 14. The conversation addresses youth football safety, concussion prevention, traumatic brain injury (TBI), repetitive head impacts, childhood brain development, sports-related brain trauma, and long-term neurological health. Bruce also questions how sports are marketed to families and whether parents receive enough information to evaluate the risks. Beyond identifying concerns, Bruce offers practical recommendations for making youth sports safer, including reducing unnecessary head contact during practice, improving concussion education, and encouraging informed decisions about athletic participation. This educational episode challenges parents, coaches, athletic organizations, and communities to examine how they approach children's brain health. The message is straightforward: children should have opportunities to participate in sports, build confidence, and develop teamwork without exposing them to avoidable head injuries.   🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the issue of brain trauma in sports 01:57 The science behind brain injuries and neuron damage 04:02 Risks of early contact sports for children 06:46 How sports marketing misleads parents about safety 10:07 Practical steps to make sports safer for kids 13:11 The importance of delaying contact sports until age 14 15:07 Changing practice routines to prevent injuries 16:53 The role of education and awareness in protecting children 17:51 Hope and future innovations in sports safety      Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation Produced by Security Halt Media

    Bruce Parkman on Youth Contact Sports, Concussion Prevention and Protecting Children's Brains | Broken Brains

  3. Oct 21

    Jordan Wilkins on Military Blast Exposure, Brain Trauma, TMS and Veteran Mental Health | Broken Brains Ep. 112

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when the repeated blasts and invisible injuries of military service begin affecting a veteran's brain, mental health, and ability to rebuild life after combat? In Episode 112 of the Broken Brains Podcast, host Bruce Parkman sits down with combat veteran and certified physician assistant Jordan Wilkins, PA-C, to explore the impact of military blast exposure, repetitive brain trauma, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and the challenges veterans face when seeking effective mental health care. Drawing from his experience in military medicine, including supporting Marine special operations and serving in Afghanistan, Jordan discusses the demanding world of combat medicine, the skills required of special operations medics, and the neurological and psychological consequences that can follow years of military service. The conversation examines blast-related brain injury, PTSD, veteran suicide prevention, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), neuroplasticity, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and emerging approaches to veteran mental health treatment. Bruce and Jordan discuss the gaps in conventional care, the importance of appropriate medical evaluation, and why veterans deserve access to treatment options supported by scientific evidence. Jordan also reflects on the role of faith, spirituality, hope, and personal responsibility in his understanding of recovery. Episode 112 is an educational conversation about the invisible consequences of military service, the need for continued brain injury research, and the importance of helping veterans and active-duty service members find appropriate care before their struggles become a crisis.   🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/   Chapters Chapters   00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 02:02 Guest background: military service and medical training 05:08 Journey to Marine Special Operations Battalion 08:15 Experience as a combat medic in Afghanistan 12:11 The skills and capabilities of special operations medics 15:27 Post-military career and veteran health challenges 22:12 Impact of blast exposure and repetitive brain trauma 29:54 Healing modalities: TMS and psychedelics 36:34 Gaps in current veteran mental health care 45:40 The moral and spiritual aspects of healing 54:12 Advice for veterans and active service members 01:01:34 Closing thoughts and resources for healing Support Broken Brains Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation Produced by Security Halt Media

    Jordan Wilkins on Military Blast Exposure, Brain Trauma, TMS and Veteran Mental Health | Broken Brains Ep. 112

  4. Oct 15

    Bruce Parkman on Psychedelic Therapy, Trauma Healing and Spiritual Transformation | Broken Brains

    Send us Fan Mail Can psychedelic experiences help people confront trauma, process painful memories, and discover a deeper understanding of themselves?     In this solo episode of the Broken Brains Podcast, host and retired Green Beret Bruce Parkman shares his personal journey with psychedelic substances, including ketamine, ayahuasca, and psilocybin, and reflects on their psychological, physiological, and spiritual significance in his life.     Drawing from his military background and experiences with trauma, Bruce discusses why he began exploring psychedelic approaches, what he experienced during these sessions, and how concepts such as ego death, forgiveness, gratitude, and self-discovery influenced his understanding of healing.     The conversation examines psychedelic-assisted therapy, veteran mental health, trauma recovery, neuroplasticity, ketamine treatment, ayahuasca, psilocybin, and spiritual growth. Bruce also explores the importance of appropriate guidance, preparation, and continued research into the potential therapeutic applications and risks of these substances. Throughout the episode, Bruce reflects on the emotional challenges faced by military veterans and athletes and why addressing trauma may require examining both psychological symptoms and deeply personal experiences. This episode offers an honest, first-person perspective on psychedelic experiences, mental health, forgiveness, and the ongoing search for healing and purpose.   🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW! https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Bruce's background 01:26 Bruce's first experiences with psychedelics 04:04 Ketamine and its healing effects 07:03 Spiritual insights and ego death 12:10 Ayahuasca and DMT experiences 22:59 The impact on trauma and forgiveness 29:58 Bruce's journey to Mexico and deeper healing 32:54 Physiological and spiritual transformation 36:57 The importance of access and research 38:52 Closing thoughts and encouragements for listeners     Support Broken Brains Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation   Produced by Security Halt Media

  5. Oct 13

    Dr. Daniel Avesar on Brain Injury Recovery, Neuroplasticity and Mental Health | Broken Brains Ep. 111

    Send us Fan Mail Can the brain recover after a traumatic brain injury, and what role does neuroplasticity play in healing? In Episode 111 of the Broken Brains Podcast, Bruce Parkman sits down with neuroscientist and brain injury survivor Dr. Daniel Avesar to explore the science of brain injury recovery, neuroplasticity, mental health, and the challenges of rebuilding life after neurological trauma.   Dr. Avesar shares his personal experience with brain injury and the seven-year journey of rebuilding cognitive function, managing symptoms, and understanding the complexities of neurological recovery. Drawing from his experience as both a scientist and a survivor, he discusses gaps in conventional brain injury care, the importance of individualized treatment, and the potential role of holistic approaches in supporting recovery.   The conversation examines traumatic brain injury (TBI), neuroscience, neuroplasticity, mental health, emerging brain therapies, and the need for greater awareness and support for brain injury survivors. Episode 111 offers an educational perspective on the challenges of living with brain trauma and the importance of continued research, appropriate treatment, and community support.   🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 01:21 Dr. Absar's background and what led him to neuroscience 03:07 The impact of his brain injury and initial recovery 06:15 Rebuilding cognition and managing symptoms over seven years 10:59 The state of brain injury treatment and societal gaps 16:03 Modalities and approaches for healing the brain 22:05 Healing the mind and addressing mental health challenges 27:56 The role of neuroplasticity and holistic care 34:14 Emerging therapies and future directions 43:57 Societal change and improving brain health awareness 49:53 Dr. Absar's projects and how to connect 51:34 Closing remarks and key takeaways   Support Broken Brains Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation     Produced by Security Halt Media

    Dr. Daniel Avesar on Brain Injury Recovery, Neuroplasticity and Mental Health | Broken Brains Ep. 111

  6. Oct 8

    Bruce Parkman on Repetitive Brain Trauma, Concussion Warning Signs and Mental Health | Broken Brains

    Send us Fan Mail Can repetitive head impacts and explosive blast exposure affect your mental health even when you don't realize you've suffered a brain injury? In this solo episode of the Broken Brains Podcast, Bruce Parkman explores the relationship between repetitive brain trauma, concussions, mental health, and the importance of recognizing brain injury before symptoms become more difficult to manage. Bruce discusses the warning signs of concussion, the neurological effects of repetitive head impacts, and why military veterans exposed to explosive blasts and athletes participating in contact sports should take brain health seriously. He explains how injuries involving the prefrontal cortex may contribute to changes in emotional regulation, behavior, and cognitive functioning. The conversation also examines concussion evaluation, neuroinflammation, the developing brain, youth sports safety, and why early medical assessment and prevention are essential. This episode provides practical education for veterans, parents, coaches, athletes, and families concerned about traumatic brain injury, concussion symptoms, repetitive brain trauma, and long-term neurological health.   🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brain Trauma and Its Impact 00:28 Bruce Parkman’s Mission and the Importance of Awareness 01:23 Veterans and Brain Injury Risks from Explosive Exposure 02:21 Why Feeling Fine Doesn’t Mean You Are Fine 04:14 Warning Signs of Serious Concussion 06:33 Post-Concussion Care and Activity Recommendations 08:24 Repetitive Brain Trauma and Contact Sports 12:13 How Brain Damage Affects Emotions and Behavior 15:30 The Developing Brain and Contact Sports Risks 16:56 Moving Forward: Prevention and Education Strategies   Support Broken Brains Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation Produced by Security Halt Media

    Bruce Parkman on Repetitive Brain Trauma, Concussion Warning Signs and Mental Health | Broken Brains

  7. Oct 6

    Dr. Melissa McCart on Childhood Brain Injury, Concussions and Mental Health | Broken Brains Ep. 110

    Send us Fan Mail Can an undiagnosed brain injury contribute to behavioral, emotional, or mental health problems in children? In Episode 110 of the Broken Brains Podcast, Bruce Parkman sits down with Dr. Melissa McCart to explore the connection between childhood brain injury, concussion, trauma, mental health, and the importance of recognizing potential brain injuries early. Dr. McCart discusses her work identifying brain injuries in children and youth, including the development and implementation of the Rapid Alaska Brain Injury Screening Tool (RABIST). She explains why changes in behavior, learning, emotional regulation, or mental health can sometimes signal the need to investigate a history of brain injury. Bruce and Dr. McCart also explore concussion management, contact sports, domestic abuse, school accommodations, non-pharmaceutical interventions, family support, and practical questions parents can ask when something about their child suddenly seems different. Episode 110 is an important conversation about recognizing brain injuries earlier and building systems that support children before potentially manageable problems become lifelong challenges.   🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/   Chapters 00:00 Brain Trauma & Its Impact on Children  02:00 Why Children Are Our Most Valuable Asset  03:59 Dr. Melissa McCart’s Journey Into Brain Injury Research  08:57 Trauma, Mental Health & Hidden Brain Injuries  11:52 Why Early Brain Injury Screening Matters  18:00 Supporting Brain-Injured Children at School  24:00 Contact Sports, Domestic Abuse & Brain Trauma  29:52 The RABIST Brain Injury Screening Tool  36:03 Family & Community Support After Brain Injury  41:59 What Parents Should Know About Concussions  44:59 The Future of Brain Injury Treatment & Policy     Support Broken Brains Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation Produced by Security Halt Media

    Dr. Melissa McCart on Childhood Brain Injury, Concussions and Mental Health | Broken Brains Ep. 110

  8. Oct 1

    Bruce Parkman: What the NFL Is Teaching Us About Football & Brain Health

    Send us Fan Mail What can the NFL’s evolving approach to player safety teach parents, coaches, and youth sports organizations about protecting the developing brain? In this solo episode of the Broken Brains Podcast, Bruce Parkman examines football, concussions, repetitive head impacts, and the ongoing effort to reduce brain trauma in contact sports. Bruce discusses recent NFL safety measures and what those changes reveal about the growing focus on reducing unnecessary head impacts. The conversation then moves beyond professional football to the athletes Bruce believes deserve even greater attention: children and teenagers. He explores why repetitive head impacts matter, how the developing brain differs from the adult brain, and why delaying contact may be one strategy for reducing cumulative exposure during childhood. This episode examines football safety, youth sports, concussions, repetitive brain trauma, player safety, mental health, and practical ways parents, coaches, and sports organizations can think differently about protecting young athletes.   🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the impact of football on brain health 02:13 NFL's recent safety measures and their limitations 04:06 The importance of reducing head impacts in youth sports 05:56 Mental health issues among NFL and college players 08:14 Science of brain impacts and the need for policy change 09:38 Practical steps for parents and coaches to make sports safer 11:05 Conclusion: Learning from the NFL to protect young athletes   Support Broken Brains Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by the Mac Parkman Foundation. Mac Parkman Foundation Donate to the Mac Parkman Foundation   Produced by Security Halt Media

    Bruce Parkman: What the NFL Is Teaching Us About Football & Brain Health
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About

Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is presented by The Mac Parkman FoundationThe mission of this show and the foundation is To serve as a source of information, resources, and communications to the community of parents, coaches/Athletic trainers, medical staff, and athletes that are affected by sports-related concussions and to raise awareness of the long-term implications of concussive and sub-concussive trauma to our children.Broken Brains will also explore how Concussive Trauma impacts our Service Members and Veterans.Join us every week as Bruce interviews leaders and experts in various Medical fields, as well as survivors of Concussive trauma.  Produced by Security Halt Media

Information

  • Creator
    Bruce Parkman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    141
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman
  • Show Website
    Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman