CTE & Black Athletes: The Hidden Dangers of Football & Brain Trauma | Broken Brains Podcast

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In this thought-provoking episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, we take a deep dive into the long-term effects of brain trauma in contact sports, with a particular focus on CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) and its disproportionate impact on Black athletes.

Joining host Bruce Parkman is Alexis “Lexi” Alston, a dedicated pre-med student and advocate, who is passionate about raising awareness around CTE, brain trauma, and the socioeconomic factors influencing youth sports participation.

🔹 Why Are Black Athletes at Greater Risk? – Exploring the systemic issues and cultural factors that increase CTE risks for young athletes in underserved communities.
 🔹 The Role of Football & the Need for Reform – How youth sports culture shapes communities and what can be done to make football safer for future generations.
 🔹 Mothers on the Frontlines of Change – Why education, advocacy, and informed parental decisions are crucial in protecting young athletes from long-term brain trauma.
 🔹 Breaking Barriers in Organ Donation – Tackling the cultural stigmas in the Black community and the importance of understanding how CTE impacts brain health and mental well-being.

This episode is a must-listen for athletes, parents, medical professionals, and sports advocates seeking to understand the risks, push for reforms, and protect the next generation from the devastating effects of repetitive brain trauma.

👉 Tune in now and join the movement for safer sports! Subscribe, like, and share on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts to help spread awareness and drive change.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma

01:28 Meet Lexi: A Passion for CTE Awareness

04:06 The Disproportionate Impact on Black Athletes

08:49 Socioeconomic Factors in Sports Participation

12:35 The Role of Football in Communities

17:02 Addressing Safety in Youth Football

22:19 Towards a Safer Future for Football

23:08 Cultural Perspectives on Organ Donation

24:31 Awareness and Education in Sports

25:54 The Impact of Contact Sports on Mental Health

27:43 The Role of Mothers in Sports Decisions

29:52 Community Initiatives and Education

31:11 Passion and Advocacy in Research

33:03 Making Football Safer for Future Generations

39:09 Current Research and Future Aspirations

https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/

Follow Lexi on LinkedIn and on social media today!

LinkedIn: Alexis Alston

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexisalston4/

Instagram: almostdoctoralston

https://www.instagram.com/almostdoctoralston/

Produced by Security Halt Media