Last Podcast On The Left Side Stories: CTE Stories w/ Dr. Chris Nowinski
Dec 31, 2025
Guest Chris Nowinski, a neuroscientist and co-founder of the Concussion and CTE Foundation, talks about his journey from a WWE wrestling career cut short by injuries to advocating for brain health. He dives into the serious impacts of CTE, especially in athletes, detailing findings from brain donations of wrestlers and high-profile cases, like Aaron Hernandez. Nowinski highlights the cumulative effects of head impacts, the risks of youth sports, and the urgent need for change in how we protect players. His insights on brain health strategies and the complexities of addiction and behavior changes shed light on this critical issue.
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Wrestler Hid Concussion To Keep Performing
- Dr Chris Nowinski described wrestling through his own injury story and how he hid symptoms to keep performing.
- He wrestled five more weeks after a head hit because admitting injury meant losing status and income.
Missed Chance To Help Chris Benoit
- Dr Chris Nowinski recalled Chris Benoit offering to talk about concussions and giving his number.
- Nowinski later regretted not following up and believes he missed a chance to intervene.
Years Played Predict CTE Risk
- Years played predicts CTE risk better than self-reported concussions.
- Years approximate the number and force of subconcussive hits that drive disease risk.