S2 E23 Jessica Riccardi, PhD | Scramble Johnny Episode

S2 E23 The Scramble Johnny Episode

Bob Cutler welcomes Dr. Jess Riccardi, Assistant Professor and Speech-Language Pathologist, to discuss her research on head traumas and concussions in children and athletes. They explore the long-term effects of brain injuries, the risks faced by young children, and advancements in sports safety. Jess emphasizes the need for better support systems and education while training future speech pathologists. The episode blends important insights with lighthearted moments as they debate sports rivalries and whiskey preferences.

Main Topics Covered:

• Brain Injuries in Children – Exploring the causes, impacts, and prevention of traumatic brain injuries in young children.

• Sports Safety – Discussing advancements like guardian helmets and the cultural shift in addressing sports-related head injuries.

• Professional Goals – Jess’s commitment to training future speech pathologists and advancing research on brain injury recovery.

Key Insights:

1. Preventing head traumas in young children starts at home by securing heavy furniture and monitoring risks during exploratory phases.

2. Reframing concussions as “head traumas” increases awareness of their seriousness and encourages comprehensive care.

3. Guardian helmets in football are advancing data collection on impacts, contributing to a growing understanding of sports-related brain injuries.

Episode Index

1. (0:50) Dr. Jess Riccardi discusses her research on concussions and the long-term effects of head traumas on children and athletes.

2. (7:00) Young children are at high risk for brain injuries from falls and accidents, often requiring years of support for recovery.

3. (13:12) Language matters: Terms like "head trauma" or "brain injury" encourage seriousness in diagnosis and treatment over the casual use of "concussion."

4. (18:09) Advances like guardian helmets in football help track impacts and raise awareness, though their effectiveness in preventing injuries is still studied.

     5. (21:59) The University of New Hampshire rivalry persists—Black Bears prevail in sports,                while Jess humorously defends her alma mater