Are you going through life blind? This is Eyes Wide Open with Nick Thompson. On this show, we share knowledge and stories that build human connection while elevating stigmatized societal issues, including mental health, holistic wellness, culture, free speech, and more, all to ensure we show up in the world with our Eyes Wide Open. You may know Nick Thompson from his appearance on season two of Netflix’s hit reality show Love is Blind, but there’s a side of him you may not know: The Storytel ...
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Each week, Nick Thompson - a therapist and public speaker - discusses topics and techniques that will maximize your personal potential and lead toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
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Dating STILL SUCKS! How to date intentionally & achieve relationship success w/Anita Chlipala (PT 2)
49:12
In part 2, Nick continues his conversation with dating and relationship therapist, Anita Chlipala. They delve deep into the complexities of dating and relationships, discussing various themes such as flirting techniques, attachment styles, emotional management, and the challenges of uncertainty in dating. They emphasize the importance of understand…
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🗳️ Election Day is Tuesday 🗳️ I've been feeling overwhelmed with all the celebrity endorsements, partisan media, and this win-or-lose mentality flooding my feed. But here’s what I want to share: 👉 It’s not about picking the "right" winner. It’s about voting for someone who aligns with what truly matters to YOU! Your vote is YOUR choice. So don’t le…
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Part 1: Dating SUCKS! How you can create a blueprint for dating and relationship success w/ Anita Chlipala
50:45
In part one of this two-part episode, Nick and Anita Chlipala discuss the complexities of relationships, the importance of therapy, and how to navigate the evolving landscape of dating in the digital age. They explore how communication skills, self-awareness, and understanding one's needs play crucial roles in forming and maintaining healthy relati…
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Democratizing the Law: Empowering Everyone with Affordable Legal Services w/ J.J. Garofalo
1:10:02
In this episode, Nick sits down with J.J. Garofalo, founder and CEO of Attorney Live, to explore the mission of making legal advice accessible and affordable for all. J.J. shares his journey in launching Attorney Live, a tele-law service designed to provide accessible legal assistance to those in need. Together, they discuss the hurdles many face w…
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Overwhelmed? Escape the Chaos to Master Self-Connection and Unlock Your True Potential w/ Kate Eckman
1:26:52
In this episode, Nick chats with Kate Eckman, host of the Raw-ish podcast, broadcast journalist and author of the bestselling book, The Full Spirit Workout, TEDx speaker, and certified executive coach, to explore the complexities of emotions, communication, and personal growth. They explore the importance of acknowledging feelings, setting boundari…
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EP Title: Bachelor Producer Spills the BTS Tea on Reality TV Summary In this episode, Nick interviews Michael Carroll, a former reality TV producer known for his work on shows like The Bachelor. He shares all of his shocking behind-the-scenes experiences and the tactics used to produce your favorite shows. They discuss Michael's journey from aspiri…
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I took a much-needed summer sabbatical from social media. The pressure to produce led me to a place where I would "finish my day" late in the evening and then sit down to create content as if that was some way to rest. I was burning out fast. I can always recognize the signs, and this time, I decided to take a break from pressuring myself to show u…
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In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, a friend of the show Kristy Edwards, founder of Neatly Balanced, opens up about her journey through the challenging terrain of burnout, anxiety, and depression while growing her business. Kristy candidly shares how setting boundaries and prioritizing mental health became crucial to her well-being and s…
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In this episode, Stef “Rocks” shares her dynamic journey from rock radio morning show host to podcaster and everything in between. The duo dives into a wide array of topics, including unsolicited pics on dating apps and DMs, her passion for rock music, and the pros and cons of being single. The conversation also touches on social media, backstage r…
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Unlock The Keys to Modern Dating Through Mindfulness and Self-Love with The Love Coach, Melani Le’ona
1:21:49
Do you have love, dating, or relationships on your mind? Check out this episode where Nick engages with renowned love coach Melani Le'ona for a transformative discussion on mastering modern dating. Melani shares her inspiring journey to becoming a top dating and relationship coach, emphasizing the vital role of self-love, boundaries, and mindful da…
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Get ready for an inspiring journey with Shelley Paxton, the former CMO of Harley Davidson and current Chief Soul Officer. She will share her remarkable career path and current mission to redefine success. Shelley has always followed her passions, but it wasn’t until she reached the top of the mountain that she tapped into the rebel within to become…
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Learning Anger Management Skills to Overcome Adversity & Succeed in Sports Broadcasting with Leverett Ball
1:28:02
In this captivating episode, Nick sits down with Leverett Ball to delve into his rich and varied experiences in the sports broadcasting world. Leverett shares his incredible journey from a college athlete to a prominent sports broadcaster with ESPN. The discussion reveals the grit and perseverance required to thrive in such a competitive industry, …
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JULIAN ASSANGE IS FREE! Examining the Good, the Bad, and Future of Press Freedoms with Nick Thompson
20:52
In this compelling first solo episode of "Eyes Wide Open," host Nick Thompson takes a dive deep into the critical issues of censorship and freedom of speech, framed through the lens of journalist Julian Assange's prosecution and recent release. Nick shares his own personal experiences with censorship, shedding light on why free speech and a free pr…
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This episode features Madina Alam, a licensed mental health therapist, speaker, model, and Bachelor cast member. In this engaging conversation, Madina and Nick delve into the intricate world of self-doubt, confidence, dating culture, and imposter syndrome. They bravely open up about their own insecurities and vulnerabilities, shedding light on the …
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In this captivating episode, Nick sits down with Tabitha “Little,” the vibrant host of the podcast 'Little Bit of Life,' for an enlightening conversation about her career and mental health journey that led to her hit podcast. Tabitha opens up about her unique journey into podcasting, stemming from a childhood dream of becoming a horse jockey to bat…
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In honor of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, here are two men talking about mental health. This special episode of Eyes Wide Open features clips from another show Nick co-hosts with Todd Rennebohm: Mental Health Headline Hot Takes with Nick and Todd. In this special crossover episode, Nick and Todd discuss mental health news including the one-y…
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Exploring Vulnerability, Resilience, and Redefining Latino Masculinity with Dr. Paul Rivera
1:25:23
In this compelling episode, Dr. Paul Rivera takes us on a journey from his childhood dream of emulating the legendary Jacques Cousteau to the values of growth and exploration that have shaped his life. Through deep self-reflection, Dr. Rivera shares the importance of understanding one's values and discovering personal superpowers. The conversation …
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In this eye-opening episode, Matthew Dubila, a standout cast member from Love is Blind, takes us behind the scenes to share his experience on the hit reality show. Matthew opens up about the intense pressure and manipulation tactics employed by producers, shedding light on the often unseen reality of reality TV. He reveals how the lack of control o…
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Join us for part two of this riveting conversation as Nick Thompson and Daniele Gates delve into the hidden machinations behind reality TV and the broader media landscape. They reveal the startling lack of control individuals have over the information they consume and the insidious manipulation of narratives. From the pervasive impact of online bul…
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Dive deep into the captivating world of reality television with Nick in this eye-opening episode of part one of a two-part series. In part one, he sits down with Daniele Gates, a former high school teacher and reality TV star from 90 Day Fiancé. Unveil the truth behind the glitz and glamour as Daniele reveals her journey from childhood dreams to ho…
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Unlocking Consciousness with Ancient Wisdom and Breathwork in the Modern Age with Paval Stucklik (NOA | AON)
1:18:07
In this enlightening podcast episode, Pavel Stuchlik, also known as NOA AON, shares the transformative power of ancient wisdom and modern tools. A seasoned DJ, entrepreneur, and certified ambassador of peace, Pavel has spent over a decade immersed in diverse cultures and ancient teachings, weaving together a tapestry of wisdom aimed at unifying hum…
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Step into the intimate world of Jess Seimers, host of the enlightening Panic Button podcast, as she joins Nick to unveil her profound journey through the depths of anxiety and the tumultuous waves of panic attacks. In this compelling episode, Jess bares her soul, recounting her turbulent path from the shadows of college anxiety to the light of unde…
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Dive into the captivating journey of Timmy Gibson, once an evangelical pastor, now couples and dating coach, and the top wedding officiant in Kansas City, as he unveils his remarkable transition and introspective revelations. Join us as Timmy candidly shares his evolution, from grappling with his faith to crafting deeply personalized ceremonies tha…
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An Unconventional Therapist Journey and The Realities of Mental Health Advocacy with Therapy Jeff
1:18:11
In this captivating episode, Nick sits down with licensed professional counselor Jeff Gunther, better known as Therapy Jeff, to delve into his remarkable journey from childhood baseball aspirations to becoming a successful therapist and mental health content creator. Therapy Jeff opens up about his personal struggles, including his journey to recon…
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In this riveting episode of Eyes Wide Open, Jasmine Weg, a seasoned lawyer specializing in commercial litigation, spotlights the legal intricacies behind the controversial 'Love is Blind' cast contracts. Jasmine shares her journey of delving into the Love is Blind contract, sparked by her fascination with the show's treatment of its participants an…
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Danielle Roberts, AKA the Anti-Career Coach, joins Nick to discuss rejecting hustle culture to change your relationship with work and redefining success and happiness in life. They explore the impact of burnout and the need for systemic changes in work environments. Danielle shares her personal journey from being a working professional to coaching …
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Challenging the Two-Party System and Why Now is the Time for Third Parties with Dr. Jill Stein
1:04:44
Join us in this compelling episode as Dr. Jill Stein, the prominent figure vying for the Green Party nomination in the 2024 presidential race, delves into her motivations for running and the hurdles posed by the entrenched two-party system. Dr. Stein articulates her transformative vision for the nation, advocating for healthcare as a fundamental hu…
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Addiction Recovery, Anxiety, and Finding Redemption with Jared Blaine and and Brianna Elizabeth
1:06:26
Our guests today are Jared Blaine and Brianna Elizabeth. Jared and Brianna are advocates for mental health and recovery and the hosts of The Blaklist podcast. Ever feel like your life took a detour from your dreams? Jared and Brianna dive deep into their pasts, from musical aspirations to the challenges of rejection. They explore how music continue…
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Our guest today is Emily Ballesteros. Emily is the author of the brand-new best-selling book The Cure for Burnout, how to find balance and reclaim your life. She earned her master's degree in industrial organizational psychology and works as a corporate trainer and burnout management coach, helping professionals build work-life balance. Emily discu…
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Our guest today is Roberta Blevins. Roberta is an anti-MLM activist, educating victims of system issues with multi-level marketing programs. She is the host of the Life After MLM Podcast and a participant in the Amazon docuseries LuLaRich, which exposed the exploitative and culty LuLaRoe MLM program. Roberta and Nick discuss her experience with mul…
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Fighting the Gun Lobby to Pass Donna’s Law for Firearm Suicide Prevention with Katrina Brees
1:29:48
TW: This conversation includes stories of gun violence, self-harm, and death by suicide. Our guest today is Katrina Brees, a New Orleans-based Mardi Gras artist and creator of “Donna's Law,” a voluntary self-registry prohibition to gun sales for those who choose to create self-defense against gun suicide. In this episode, Katrina and Nick discuss h…
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Examining Our Political Systems, the 2024 Election, and Indy Media Infighting with Kit Cabello
1:33:42
Our guest is Kit Cabello, the founder of Hard Lens Media, a Chicago-based independent news network. In this episode, Nick and Kit delve into the burden of student debt and the need for affordable education. The conversation touches on the impact of technology on human connection and the dangers of AI without ethical considerations. They discuss the…
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TW: There are moments in this conversation where we discuss suicidal ideation. Carrie Magnuson is a mental health advocate, mother of three, artist and founder of Rusty Lane Lettering, and host of the Carry on with Carrie podcast! In this episode of Eyes Wide Open, Carrie shares her journey of self-discovery, sobriety, and finding purpose that led …
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TW: This episode discusses PTSD, war, and a story of suicide. Josh Halu, an Army veteran, mental health advocate, and founder and CEO PsycheX joins Nick Thompson to share his story of overcoming trauma and finding healing through psychedelics. Josh opens up about his difficult childhood, his experience in the military, and his struggles with depres…
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On this episode of Eyes Wide Open, we take a look at a few episodes of a new show from Nick and his friend Todd, dissecting mental health news and headlines. Subscribe to the weekly show every Thursday exclusively here on my YouTube channel! Subscribe: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@eyeswideopencontent Follow Nick: Instagram: https://www.instagr…
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Ashley Love Richards, host of the cult-obsessed podcast "That's So F**ked Up," dives deep into the darkness with Nick Thompson in this unfiltered conversation about coercive control in cults, alcoholic anonymous, and reality TV. Buckle up as they dissect Ashley's passion for true crime, her journey from alcoholism to podcasting glory, and the surpr…
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How to Overcome Negative Thoughts and Limiting Beliefs Using Neuroplasticity with Elana Van Deventer
1:25:55
****TW: There are moments in this conversation where we discuss suicidal ideation. In this conversation, Elana Van Deventer shares her journey of overcoming limiting beliefs and building confidence. We discuss the intersection of neuroscience and mental health, highlighting the importance of breaking the silence around emotions and mental health. E…
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The Impact of Social Media and Culture on Millennials and GenZ’s Mental Health with Dr. Jessica Rabon
1:13:26
In this episode, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Jessica Rabon and I discuss the impacts of social media and culture on the increasing mental health challenges faced by millennials and Gen Z. Dr. Rabon highlights the pressure and expectations placed on young adults to pursue certain career paths and the impacts of student loan debt on our lives.…
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This week, we’re continuing the best of 2023 by highlighting this year’s guests from the world of reality TV. This week, we’ll be highlighting conversations with my ex-wife Danielle Ruhl (Love is Blind), Alyssa Barmonde (Married at First Sight AU), Stephanie Davison (90 Day Fiance), Olivia Frazer (Married at First Sight AU), and Corrine Hatch (Amer…
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On this special episode of Eyes Wide Open, we’re reliving the best podcast episodes of 2023 as part of a two-part series. In this episode, we're going to highlight clips from Dr. Elizabeth Federick, Dr. Kirk Honda, Calley Means, Eli Weinstein, Macy Schuchart, Callie Ezell, Rushi Kota, and Danny LoPriore. In part two (out next week), we are going to…
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What similarities are there between how documentary film participants and reality television cast members are treated by production companies and the public? How can we create these forms of media ethically and in a way that protects the dignity and humanity of those involved? Today on Eyes Wide Open, we are speaking with producer and documentary p…
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Our guest today is Olivia Frazier, a content creator, model, and a cast member from season nine of Married at First Sight Australia. I wanted to have Olivia on the show today to share some of her experiences during production and after the show aired, because she has been through a lot. Olivia was edited into a villain character on the show, and it…
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This week on Eyes Wide Open, we’re speaking with Calley Means, a former consultant in the food and pharmaceutical industries turned activist and advocate against them. Calley works to subvert big industry’s poisoning of our food system and the corruption in regulating agencies enable this to happen. Calley is also the founder of a company called Tr…
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TW: This episode features stories of sexual trauma, addiction, self harm, and suicidal ideation. Avoid listening if these topics may cause you emotional or psychological distress. On today's episode of Eyes Wide Open, we will be sitting down with mental health advocate Todd Rennebohm. Todd is a public speaker, author of the children's book, “Someti…
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Reality and unscripted television are often anything but that. Join us in demanding that producers add a mandatory disclaimer before and after each episode, underscoring that episodes are for entertainment purposes only, and the content can be edited, manipulated, and presented in any order for storyline purposes. https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/…
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Today's guest on Eyes Wide Open is Emma Demar, also known by her nickname, “That Trendy Therapist.” She's a licensed clinical social worker, former actress from Gossip Girl, podcast host, and bestselling author of the book, “The Truth Teller: The Truth Behind Our Masks.” In my journey to better understand myself and my internal motivations, I came …
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Reality and unscripted television are often anything but that. Join us in demanding that producers add a mandatory disclaimer before and after each episode, underscoring that episodes are for entertainment purposes only, and the content can be edited, manipulated, and presented in any order for storyline purposes. https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/…
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Reality and unscripted television are often anything but that. Join us in demanding that producers add a mandatory disclaimer before and after each episode, underscoring that episodes are for entertainment purposes only, and the content can be edited, manipulated, and presented in any order for storyline purposes. https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/…
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Today's episode of Eyes Wide Open is part one of two where I talked to Callie Ezell. Callie is a Chicago-based abstract artist and founder-entrepreneur with Mcmillan Street Art. We recently got connected through a mutual friend, who told me that Callie spent 10 years of her life in a cult. Reality and unscripted television are often anything but th…
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Reality and unscripted television are often anything but that. Join us in demanding that producers add a mandatory disclaimer before and after each episode, underscoring that episodes are for entertainment purposes only, and the content can be edited, manipulated, and presented in any order for storyline purposes. https://sign.moveon.org/petitions/…
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continue reading