Paul Nicklen: A Reverence for Nature
Standing in front of any of Canadian photographer Paul Nicklen’s large-scale images in the current exhibition at Hilton Contemporary, one cannot help but be totally…
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Dr. Thom Mayer: How the NFL Is Reducing Head Injuries Without Losing the Kickoff
In this bonus episode of My Favorite Mistake, I’m joined once again by Dr. Thom Mayer, the Medical Director for the NFL Players Association and one of USA Today’s 100 Most Important People in the NFL. Thom is back to share the results of one of the NFL’s most closely watched experiments — the 2024 “dynamic kickoff” rule change, designed to reduce injuries while preserving the excitement of the play.
✅ Concussions on kickoffs dropped 43%
✅ Kickoff return rates increased from 22% to 33%
✅ More returns, fewer injuries — and the work continues
We also dive into: Advances in helmet and guardian cap technology, the rise in shoulder injuries and what’s being done about it, why Thom’s motto is “Why not half?” when it comes to injury reduction, parallels between player safety, workplace safety, and patient safety in healthcare. Dr. Mayer offers a compelling view into how the NFL balances innovation, data, and player well-being in a high-stakes environment.
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