Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman

By Bruce Parkman

Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is presented by The Mac Parkman Foundation
The mission of this show and the foundation is To serve as a source of information, resources, and communications to t

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FAQs about Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman:

How many episodes does Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman have?

The podcast currently has 59 episodes available.

Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman episodes:

September 01, 2025 Sharon Gilmartin on Brain Trauma, Sports Safety, and Public Health Solutions
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In this powerful episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, host Bruce Parkman sits down with Sharon Gilmartin, Executive Director of the Safe States Alliance, to tackle one of the most urgent public health challenges of our time—repetitive brain trauma. Together, they break down the hidden dangers of head impacts in sports and everyday life, exposing the serious gaps in care, education, and prevention.

Sharon shares key insights into how brain injuries affect not just athletes and veterans, but families, communities, and the nation’s economy. The conversation highlights why advocacy, awareness, and collaboration across healthcare, sports organizations, and policymakers are essential to protecting brain health.
If you care about mental health, athlete safety, and creating real change, this is a must-listen episode.

👉 Don’t forget to follow, share, like, and subscribe to Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts to stay informed and join the movement for better brain health.

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/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
46min
August 25, 2025 Uras “LT” Agee IV: Football, Faith & Fighting Back Against Brain Trauma
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In this powerful episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, former Green Beret and host Bruce Parkman sits down with professional football player Uras “LT” Agee IV to tackle one of the most pressing issues in athletics today—repetitive brain trauma.
LT opens up about his journey through football, the mental and physical toll of concussions, and the importance of faith, perseverance, and resilience on and off the field. From youth sports safety and proper tackling techniques to life lessons learned alongside NFL legend Tom Brady, LT shares hard-hitting insights every parent, athlete, and coach needs to hear.
This conversation goes beyond the game—it’s about protecting the next generation, building mental toughness, and finding strength in community mentorship.
👉 If you care about brain health, mental resilience, and the future of sports, this episode is for you.
Don’t forget to like, share, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts to stay updated on more conversations that matter.
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/

Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
49min
August 18, 2025 From Combat Trauma to Healing: A Green Beret’s Story of Psychedelic Recovery
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In this episode of Broken Brains, Bruce Parkman talks with retired Green Beret Pat Flatley, who shares his journey through traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and the shortcomings of traditional treatment. After years of pain, anger, and depression with little help from the VA, Pat found a breakthrough through psychedelic-assisted therapy with Ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT, supported by VETS.org.
These treatments helped him process trauma, reduce symptoms, and reconnect with his family in ways that pharmaceuticals never could. Today, Pat advocates for alternative therapies and greater awareness of repetitive brain trauma, offering hope and a path to healing for fellow veterans.
👉 Don’t forget to follow, like, share, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to help us raise awareness and support for those living with traumatic brain injuries.
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/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
1h 37min
August 11, 2025 NFL Veteran Matt Skura on Brain Trauma, Resilience & Life After Football
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🏈 In this powerful episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, former NFL player Matt Skura opens up about his journey from youth sports to the biggest stage in football—and the mental and physical battles that came with it. Matt shares raw insights into the toll that injuries, concussions, and the pressures of professional sports can take on an athlete’s brain health and emotional well-being.
From navigating life-changing injuries to redefining his identity after leaving the NFL, Matt offers an inspiring perspective on resilience, mental toughness, and the importance of mental health advocacy for athletes at every level. He and Bruce dive into the need for better safety protocols in contact sports, the role of psychology in performance, and the ongoing fight to protect the next generation of players.
🎧 Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, a coach, or simply someone passionate about mental health, this conversation delivers eye-opening truths and hope for a safer future in sports.
✅ If this episode resonates, please FOLLOW, SHARE, LIKE, and SUBSCRIBE on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts to support the mission of spreading awareness about brain health and recovery.

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/

Follow Matt Skura on LinkedIn today!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-skura/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mskura62/
Website: https://www.mattskura.com/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
54min
August 04, 2025 From Super Bowl to Brain Trauma: Ben Utecht’s Fight for Awareness & Recovery
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In this powerful episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, presented by the Mac Parkman Foundation, host Bruce Parkman sits down with Super Bowl Champion and former NFL tight end Ben Utecht to uncover the harsh realities of repetitive brain trauma and life after the NFL. Ben shares his deeply personal journey through concussions, memory loss, and identity struggles—offering insight into how brain injuries can alter not just performance, but purpose.

Now an author, speaker, and brain health advocate, Ben talks about building “championship culture” off the field and using his platform to raise awareness about player safety, cognitive rehabilitation, and the mental health challenges many athletes and veterans face. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned with the long-term impacts of sports injuries, TBI, and mental resilience.

👉 Don’t forget to follow, like, share, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to help us raise awareness and support for those living with traumatic brain injuries.

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/

Follow Ben Utecht on LinkedIn today!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benutecht/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benutecht/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benutecht/
Website: https://benutechtspeaks.com/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
56min
July 28, 2025 Brigadier General (Ret.) Kathleen Flarity on TBI, PTSD & Brain Trauma Recovery
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In this powerful episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, host Bruce Parkman sits down with Brigadier General Kathleen Flarity to discuss the devastating effects of repetitive brain trauma on veterans, athletes, and first responders. Drawing on her expertise and the groundbreaking work of the Marcus Institute for Brain Health, Kathleen sheds light on the complexities of diagnosing traumatic brain injury (TBI), the impact of blast exposure, and the critical connection between TBI and mental health challenges like PTSD.
They explore innovative treatment modalities, research initiatives, and the barriers that prevent many veterans from receiving the care they desperately need. The conversation emphasizes the importance of early intervention, better diagnostic tools, and continued advocacy to address the growing brain health crisis.
This is a must-listen for veterans, military families, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in understanding how repetitive trauma impacts the brain—and what can be done to heal.
Don’t forget to like, share, follow, and subscribe to Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts for more groundbreaking conversations on brain health and recovery.

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!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma
02:23 Overview of the Marcus Institute for Brain Health
03:42 Assessment and Treatment Programs
06:51 Understanding Low-Level Blast Exposure
12:02 The Delay in Recognizing Blast Exposure Issues
15:06 Research and Actionable Solutions
20:10 Evaluating Mental Health Impacts of TBI
23:56 Understanding Cognitive Fatigue in TBI Patients
25:09 The Need for Precision Medicine in TBI Treatment
26:04 Advancements in Diagnostic Tools for TBI
26:53 Challenges in Standardizing TBI Treatment
28:15 Exploring Alternative Modalities for TBI Recovery
30:24 Legislative Efforts for TBI Treatment Accessibility
32:10 The Role of Psychedelics in Mental Health Treatment
33:54 Integrating Nutrition and Wellness in TBI Recovery
35:45 The Importance of Holistic Approaches to Brain Health
38:16 The Journey of TBI Recovery and Patient Empowerment
40:49 Collaborative Efforts in TBI Treatment and Research

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

Follow Brigadier General Kathleen Flaherty on LinkedIn today!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-flarity-55b51a43/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
49min
July 21, 2025 Dr. Michael Lewis on Omega-3s, Brain Trauma & TBI Recovery
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In this compelling episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, host Bruce sits down with Dr. Michael Lewis—renowned brain health expert and founder of the Brain Health Education and Research Institute—to unpack the devastating impact of repetitive brain trauma, especially among veterans, athletes, and youth in contact sports.
Dr. Lewis reveals the science behind omega-3 fatty acids and their potential to reduce inflammation, support traumatic brain injury (TBI) recovery, and improve overall mental health. Together, they discuss the silent nature of brain injuries, the underdiagnosis of TBI, and the urgent need for nutrition-first approaches in treatment protocols.
They also examine the importance of early detection, improved safety standards in youth sports, and the vital role of research funding in transforming brain trauma care.
🎧 Whether you're a veteran, athlete, parent, or health professional, this episode delivers actionable insights that could save lives.
👉 Don’t forget to like, share, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts to stay updated on breakthrough conversations in brain health and recovery.

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!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma
02:22 The Brain Health Education and Research Institute
04:50 Understanding TBI and Omega-3s
06:52 Recognizing Symptoms of Brain Trauma
10:38 The Role of Medication in Treatment
12:41 Nutrition and Inflammation
14:01 Hope Through Omega-3s
18:20 Challenges in Research Funding
20:24 The Link Between Omega-3s and Mental Health
20:50 Optimizing Brain Health
26:19 The Importance of Omega-3 Ratios
28:40 Practical Dietary Changes
34:21 Results from the Brain Health Protocol
37:10 Cost and Accessibility of Treatment
41:09 Youth Sports and Brain Health
42:18 Making Contact Sports Safer
47:31 The Role of Nutrition in Sports
51:21 Public Health and Nutrition Awareness
55:19 Conclusion and Resources
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Follow Wren on LinkedIn today!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lewis-34069138/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
1h 7min
July 14, 2025 TBI Recovery & HBOT with Green Beret Wren Murray
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In this compelling episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, we’re joined by former U.S. Army Green Beret and co-founder of Revival Hyperbarics, Wren Murray, for a powerful discussion on traumatic brain injury (TBI), PTSD, and the groundbreaking role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in veteran recovery.

Wren shares his deeply personal experience with repetitive brain trauma from combat and training, and how HBOT changed the trajectory of his life. He unpacks the science behind neuroinflammation, the hurdles of getting alternative treatments recognized in traditional medicine, and the urgent need for policy change to expand access to HBOT for those who need it most—veterans, first responders, and athletes.

If you or someone you love is affected by TBI or PTSD, this episode offers hope, science-backed insights, and a call to rethink how we approach healing from the invisible wounds of war.

👉 Don’t forget to follow, like, share, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts to stay informed and inspired.

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!

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma
00:22 Understanding the Impact of Head Injuries
00:23 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma
02:55 Wren Murray's Journey and Military Background
06:25 The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury
10:48 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A New Hope
15:30 The Benefits and Protocols of HBOT
20:11 Understanding PTSD and Neuroinflammation
22:36 Neuroinflammation and Its Impact
23:58 The Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
26:12 Challenges in Medical Acceptance of HBOT
28:51 Insurance and Treatment Accessibility
30:21 The Need for Standardized Protocols
33:18 Future Directions and Expansion Plans

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

Follow Wren on LinkedIn today!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wren-murray-941b051a0/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wmurr13/?hl=en
Website: https://www.revivalhyperbarics.com/about
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
47min
July 07, 2025 Chris & Marcia Lessard: Healing TBI, PTSD, and Trauma Through Holistic Brain Therapy
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In this powerful episode of Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman, retired U.S. Army Green Beret Chris Lessard and his wife, former police officer Marcia Lessard, open up about their deeply personal battles with traumatic brain injury (TBI), PTSD, and the mental health crisis affecting veterans and first responders. Chris shares the harsh reality of living with invisible wounds from combat, while Marcia explains how her background in law enforcement led her to explore functional medicine and holistic healing.
Together, they founded a clinic offering cutting-edge treatments like Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MERT), aiming to treat the root causes of brain dysfunction—not just the symptoms. This episode dives deep into the importance of personalized brain health solutions, trauma-informed care, and the promise of alternative therapies in the fight against PTSD and TBI.

🎧 If you're a veteran, first responder, or someone who cares about brain health—this episode is for you.

💡 Don’t forget to follow, like, share, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts to support brain health awareness and help us reach more warriors in need.

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

Get the Head Smart App Today!
https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/

Follow Chris and Marsh on Social Media today!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/braintreatmentcenter_ashburn
Website: https://www.braintreatmentcenterashburn.com/
Website: https://www.marshalessard.com/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
1h 9min
June 30, 2025 Repetitive Brain Trauma: Protecting Athletes & Veterans with Dr. Annabelle Shaffer
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In this episode of Broken Brains, host Bruce Parkman engages with Dr. Annabelle Shaffer, a neurosurgery resident, to discuss the critical issues surrounding repetitive brain trauma, particularly in youth sports. They explore the impact of concussions, the importance of education for coaches and parents, and the ongoing research into brain health. Dr. Shaffer shares insights from her studies on concussions in high school athletes and emphasizes the need for awareness and preventive measures to protect young athletes from long-term neuropsychiatric effects. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the risks associated with contact sports and the necessity for a cultural shift towards safety in sports participation. If you're a veteran, first responder, or someone interested in the future of trauma treatment, this episode is packed with insights and practical knowledge.
🎧 Like, share, and subscribe to Broken Brains on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts to support veteran mental health and stay updated on breakthrough healing modalities.
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

Get the Head Smart App Today!
https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/

Follow Dr. Shaffer on LinkedIn today!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabelle-shaffer/
Two Days. One Mission. Protecting Brains, Saving Lives. September 3rd and 4th in Tampa, Florida.
Save the date for our international event focused on protecting young athletes and
honoring our veterans through real solutions to brain trauma.
Brought to you by The Mac Parkman Foundation.

Produced by Security Halt Media
...more
50min

FAQs about Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman:

How many episodes does Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman have?

The podcast currently has 59 episodes available.