Eyes Wide Open with Nick Thompson

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 understanding and healing. With candor and courage, she shares the pivotal moments of her life, from the heart-wrenching lows of divorce and the devastating loss of a parent to the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through it all, she emphasizes the transformative power of routine and the invaluable support of psychiatric intervention in unraveling the complexities of her mental health. Experience the roller coaster of emotions as Jess bravely navigates the daunting transition from one medication to another, grappling with heightened anxiety and panic attacks amidst the chaos of a global crisis. Hear her raw vulnerability as she confronts the fears of motherhood in the midst of a pandemic, grappling with the absence of her usual support system and the overwhelming concern for her son's safety. Witness Jess's poignant journey of grief and resilience as she confronts the sudden loss of her father, seeking solace and strength through therapy and the development of coping strategies. In this profound conversation, Jess and Nick shed light on the profound importance of seeking help, grappling with self-doubt, and finding hope amidst the darkness. Explore Jess's inspiring genesis of the Panic Button Podcast, a beacon of hope and solidarity for those struggling with mental health, as she endeavors to destigmatize and amplify the voices of the unheard. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and enlightened as Jess and Nick embark on a transformative exploration of mental health, resilience, and the unwavering power of human connection so that we can all go through life with our eyes wide open. Find Jess Siemers here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panic_buttonpodcast/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4hXwImzGJguyWs61MyLQqq?si=9564a509ac05487f Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Panic-Button-Podcast/61555742574325 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@panicbuttonpodcast Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 that mirror the unique essence of each couple. Delve into the complexities of religion, spirituality, and personal growth as Timmy navigates the intersection of his past beliefs and present realities. We delve deeper into Timmy's world on wedding days, uncovering the challenges he faces as an introverted officiant. From the intricacies of ceremony planning to the nuances of human connection, Timmy sheds light on his experiences with dating and relationships. Reflect on the impact of dating apps, the quest for authenticity, and the power of embracing one's true self in the pursuit of happiness. Join host Nick and Timmy eas they explore the transformative journey of self-discovery, the beauty of authenticity, and the profound lessons learned in the realm of relationships. Gain insights into navigating the complexities of dating, overcoming past experiences, and cultivating a mindset of self-acceptance. Prepare to be inspired as Timmy and Nick uncover the secrets to finding joy and fulfillment in life's most meaningful connections to help you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Timmy Gibson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timmygibsonkc X-Twitter: https://twitter.com/TimmyKC YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDx3pY5NGp7qpTXVXbHbKMg/videos Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timmy-gibson-show/id1519492680 https://open.spotify.com/show/2XENSXNVs6Tub3P3RTZvlK Websites: https://timmygibson.com/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 reconcile with his parents. Delving deeper into his personal life, Jeff reflects on his relationship with his mother and the challenges they faced in connecting with each other, underscoring the significance of active listening and effective communication in building meaningful relationships. On a lighter note and with a lot of laughter, Jeff candidly shares his experience with anxiety and the unexpected way it revealed itself during his first therapy practice. As a content creator on social media, Jeff discusses the harsh realities of receiving death threats and negative comments. They also highlight the pervasive influence of toxic masculinity in sports and the pressures to conform to societal norms. The conversation takes an introspective turn as Jeff and Nick explore the challenges and ethical considerations of being a therapist on social media. They discuss the lack of substance in some popular content creators and advocate for the implementation of ethical guidelines and regulations within the industry. They also touch on the concept of unionization among content creators. In some exciting news, Jeff offers a glimpse into his upcoming book, 'Big Dating Energy,' which explores the quest for authentic relationships in a digital age. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on mental health, authenticity, and the evolving landscape of content creation. We hope this will help you navigate life with your eyes wide open. Find Therapy Jeff here: Big Dating Energy Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316568031 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapyjeff/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@therapyjeff Podcast: Big Dating Energy Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-dating-energy/id1726065949 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wbtYxrzXwGNqUdem0PjA7 Podcast: Problem Solved with Therapy Jeff Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/problem-solved-with-therapy-jeff Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0gUp6M9wYXWnUx21YLLJOd Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPvzconEIUrYJlYC37Bd8OQ Websites: https://www.therapyjeff.com/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 and the blurred lines between contractor and employee status. With lawsuits from former cast members shedding light on the contract's contents, Jasmine emphasizes the importance of critically reviewing such agreements and ensuring participants understand the terms they're agreeing to. Exploring the depths of reality TV's legal landscape, Jasmine and Nick delve into the hefty fines imposed on cast members, the motivations driving participants, and the control exerted by production companies. They analyze the enforceability of clauses such as mandatory marriage duration and potential legal claims like false imprisonment. Jasmine and Nick tackle the contentious issue of sympathy towards reality TV cast members who litigate against their shows, the complexities of contracting away legal labor rights, and the specter of defamation within reality TV contracts. In a lighter part of the conversation, they ponder the age-old question: is love truly blind, or does appearance still hold sway in relationships? With invaluable insights and advice, Jasmine underscores the importance of individuals standing up for their rights, advocating for themselves, and comprehensively assessing the risks associated with reality TV contracts. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that unveils the legal realities behind reality television's glitz and glamor so you can consume reality TV with your eyes wide open. Find Jasmine Weg here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasminewegesq/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmine-weg-731b8513 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jas_the_lawyer Websites: https://www.wegesq.com/home Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 and emphasizes the importance of aligning work with personal values. Danielle discusses the common trends among clients, the process of identifying values, and the need for reflection and exploration in career transitions. They also delve into the pressure to climb the corporate ladder and the importance of prioritizing personal fulfillment over societal expectations. The conversation explores the need for rest and downtime in making good career decisions, the negative impact of hustle culture, and the potential for workplace reform. They also discuss the concept of a 32-hour work week, along with the benefits it could bring in terms of reducing burnout and improving productivity. T Danielle and Nick delve into the need to redefine work and productivity and the role of capitalism and corporate responsibility in creating a more human-first future of work. Both share their beliefs that companies must be held accountable for fostering supportive workplace cultures that value not just productivity but also mental health and a healthy work-life balance. Despite the challenges, there's hope for a more equitable and fulfilling work environment as we continue to push for positive change. I hope this conversation about careers, burnout, and our relationships with work helps you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Danielle Roberts here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imdanielleroberts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielleroberts/ TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@imdanielleroberts Websites: https://danielleroberts.co/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 human right and championing the Green New Deal to address pressing environmental concerns. In a thought-provoking dialogue, Dr. Stein underscores the urgency of establishing an economic bill of rights and implementing progressive taxation policies to address income inequality. Emphasizing the pivotal role of third parties and the preservation of voting rights, she urges voters to consider alternatives beyond the Democratic and Republican duopoly, asserting that votes ultimately belong to the electorate. Throughout the conversation, critical issues such as financial deregulation, erosion of civil liberties, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza are explored. Dr. Stein sheds light on the historical context of the Israel-Palestine conflict while condemning the violation of international law through acts of genocide. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of upholding free speech amid growing censorship concerns, as Dr. Stein condemns the Democratic Party's role in stifling dissent. The episode concludes with actionable takeaways, including calls for the release of political prisoners like Julian Assange and Edward Snowden. Tune in to discover Dr. Jill Stein's compelling vision for a more just and equitable America, challenging conventional narratives and advocating for bold systemic change. We hope you enjoy this conversation about the Green Party helping you go into the 2024 election with your eyes wide open. Find Dr. Jill Stein here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjillstein/ X-Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrJillStein TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjillstein YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@JillStein2024 Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timmy-gibson-show/id1519492680 https://open.spotify.com/show/2XENSXNVs6Tub3P3RTZvlK Websites: https://www.jillstein2024.com/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 continues to connect them, even with different tastes. This episode isn't just about tunes, though. They open up about their struggles with addiction, the impact of COVID-19 on their mental health, and their personal journies to sobriety. They'll share the difficulties they faced, the power of seeking help, and the importance of making amends. But this isn't all darkness! They'll also discuss the origins of their inspiring podcast, The Blaklist, and share how it became a platform for self-care, recovery, and authentic conversations about mental health. Join us for a powerful story of resilience, hope, and the potential for positive change, even when faced with the toughest challenges. We hope you enjoy this conversation about burnout and that it can help you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Jared Blaine and Brianna Elizabeth here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theblaklistpodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theblaklistpodcast Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-blaklist-podcast/id1681420606?ls=1 Websites: https://theblaklistpodcast.com/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 discusses her personal experience with burnout and shares her career journey and how she transitioned from corporate training to burnout management. Emily details the different types of burnout, including those experienced by high achievers, people-pleasers, and those with a victim mentality. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing burnout symptoms and developing solutions in mindset, time management, stress management, boundaries, and personal care. We discuss the role of work culture in contributing to burnout and the importance of taking control and reacting to life's challenges. The conversation explores the impacts of burnout on individuals and corporate culture, delving into the causes of burnout in the workplace, including unrealistic expectations and lack of support from businesses. The conversation details the importance of creating a supportive work environment and the importance of empathy in leadership to highlight the significance of building psychological safety in teams. Emily and Nick share personal red flags of burnout and the importance of engaging in activities that recharge and protect your peace. They also discuss the impact of social media on mental health and the need for self-care when navigating social media. Emily discusses the pressure of consistency in content creation, her transition from influencer to author, and the takeaways from writing her book. She shares an overview of her book, highlighting its transformational aspect, the importance of consumable content, and the process of recording her audiobook. Emily shares her favorite fiction and self-help books and asks Nick about his personal lows and experiences with burnout. We hope you enjoy this conversation about burnout and that it can help you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Emily Ballesteros here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilybruth TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emilybruth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-ballesteros/ Websites: https://www.emilyballesteros.com/ Book: The Cure for Burnout by Emily Ballesteros Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 multi-level marketing (MLM) programs and her journey to becoming a podcast host to educate and fight against them. Roberta talks about her involvement in the LuLaRue MLM program and her journey to realize it was a pyramid scheme. She also discusses the media attention she received and her insights into the cult-like nature of MLMs. Nick and Roberta discuss her shares her motivation for starting the Life After MLM podcast. She shares what motivated her to start the podcast and how she finds purpose in having conversations about MLMs with others. Roberta also talks about expanding the topics of her podcast to include discussions on evangelicalism, exploitation, and other related subjects through discovering so many parallels in other aspects of life. She highlights the control and manipulation tactics used by MLMs and the importance of connecting with listeners through relatable stories. Roberta addresses the threats and pushback she has received from MLMs and the power and influence they hold. They also explore the addictive nature of MLMs, the impact they have on relationships and friendships, and the dark tactics used by MLM companies to deceive and exploit individuals. She shares her personal experience with MLMs and highlights the predatory nature of the industry by delving into the lobbying efforts of MLMs to protect their business model. Roberta provides advice for individuals trapped in MLMs and emphasizes the importance of seeking alternative employment opportunities. MLMs are everywhere, and cult-like manipulation tactics are implemented more into our everyday lives than we realize. Hopefully, this conversation will help you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Roberta Blevins here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealrobertablevins/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bertalikewhoa Podcast: https://robertablevins.com/the-podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RobertaBlevinsLAMLM Websites: https://robertablevins.com/ www.Lifeaftermlmpod.com Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 her career in costume design and her work in creating DIY caskets to bring “fun” to funerals. She shares the importance of transforming death into a celebration and the value of participating in funeral rituals. Katrina explains the background and purpose of Donna's Law, which aims to prevent gun sales to individuals with mental health challenges. She discusses the challenges and pushback from the gun lobby and emphasizes the need for gun legislation. Katrina shares why she believes it’s important to pass it nationally or on a state level. She provides information on how people can get involved and support the cause. She also talks about her future plans and the importance of building relationships with legislators. Despite the slow pace of change, she remains hopeful and continues her advocacy efforts. She shares the different waves of gun control activism and the changing messaging in the movement. Katrina shares her experience with reality TV and the challenges she faced in navigating the industry. She also highlights the exploitation of background extras and the dark side of documentaries. I Katrina also asks Nick Thompson about the organizations that support his non-profit work. Nick shares the various organizations, including unions and political organizing groups, that have been supportive of the UCAN Foundation. They discuss the journey of activism and advocacy, highlighting the progress made and the support received to help you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Katrina Brees here: Instagrams: https://www.instagram.com/putthefuninfuneral | https://www.instagram.com/katrinabrees/ Websites: https://www.donnaslaw.com/ | https://fantasticcasket.com Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 failings of the political establishment and the need for transparency and change. The conversation explores the frustration and disillusionment with the current political system and the lack of long-term activation and leadership in progressive movements. It discusses the co-opting of movements by political insiders and the need for citizen ballot initiatives to hold the government accountable. As a veteran, Kit talks through his experience, the cost of war, and the challenges faced by veterans trying to re-assimilate into normal life. They also talk about political homelessness and the search for representation that aligns with personal values. They discuss the lack of leadership and divisions on the left, specifically in relation to the 2020 election and the “Force the Vote” movement. The conversation also delves into the reasons for leftist infighting and the dangers of authoritarianism on the left. They explore the deeper failures of the Democratic Party, frustrations with the two-party system, and the importance of moving forward after the 2024 election. I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Kit, and it helps you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Kit Cabello here: Instagram: instagram.com/hardlensmedia | https://www.instagram.com/kitcabello/ Twitter: twitter.com/HardLensMedia YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HardLensMedia99 Additional Links: rumble.com/c/HardLensMedia patreon.com/HardLensMedia Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 her to podcasting. She discusses her childhood dreams, the challenges of empty nesting, and the importance of creativity and authenticity. Carrie also shares her learnings about the concept of time dysmorphia and the struggles of time management. She emphasizes the significance of self-care and utilizes outdoor walks to help her find clarity. Carrie and Nick discuss the benefits of cold showers for mental health, the challenges and side effects of mental health treatments, the healing power of art, and the importance of medication awareness. They also discuss dealing with public scrutiny, starting a podcast to help others, and the significance of sharing personal experiences. The conversation covers a range of topics related to mental health and self-care. Nick shares his insights into the systemic issues in reality TV and also discusses his motivation to help others by creating change in the industry. Carrie’s story is moving, motivational, and incredibly relatable, and I hope it helps you go through life with your eyes wide open. Find Carrie Magnusson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carryonwithcarrie_podcast/ Podcast: https://linktr.ee/carryonwithcarriepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@carryonwithcarriepodcast Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 depression and PTSD. He also discusses his search for alternative therapies, including cannabis and psychedelics. Josh recounts his transformative experience hiking the Appalachian Trail, which led him to explore the healing potential of psychedelic treatments. He also shares his knowledge about the importance of set and setting in the psychedelic experience, as well as the three phases of the journey: before, during, and after. Josh explains the need for integration therapy to benefit from the healing potential of psychedelic treatment fully. He shares his motivation for starting PsychX, a platform that connects veterans and individuals with psychedelic providers and aims to destigmatize psychedelic use. This episode is a powerful and inspiring story of resilience and the power of using psychedelics to heal complex trauma and mental health challenges I hope you enjoy this episode with Josh Halu and you learn something new to help you go through life with your eyes wide open! Find Josh Halu here: Website: https://psychex.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psychedelicexchange/ https://www.instagram.com/thejoshhalu/ Additional Links: https://www.linkedin.com/company/psychexchange/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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.instagram.com/nthompson513/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@eyeswideopencontent Follow Todd: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bunnyhugspodcast/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/bunny-hugs-and-mental-health/id1560055327 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bunnyhugsandmentalhealth

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 surprising (and disturbing) connections between cults and everyday life. Get ready to explore: Coercive Control: Ashley and Nick discuss coercive control in cults, alcoholic anonymous, reality TV, and many other ways the manipulation tactic reveals itself in everyday life. Survivor Stories: Ashley shares her experiences advocating for victims of spiritual abuse and the troubled teen industry, challenging the culture of victim blaming and trauma dumping online. Cults 101: Delve into the chilling world of serial killers and cults, uncovering their shared traits and the spectrum of manipulative groups lurking in plain sight. Unveiling the Darkness: Unpack the twisted psychology of cult leaders, their warped desire for control, and the insidious power of coercive control that traps victims. Breaking Free: Dive into the surprising cult-like aspects of Alcoholics Anonymous and societal pressures around alcohol, prompting a discussion on vulnerability, mental health, and Catholic guilt. Finding Light in the Dark: Discover healthy self-care strategies like bubble baths, ice cream, and walks in nature as Ashley and Nick debunk the Windy City myth and share tips for battling seasonal affective disorder. The Future is Bright: Join the duo as they brainstorm future collaborations and celebrate the power of self-improvement and building supportive communities. This episode is a raw, insightful, and often hilarious journey into the darkest corners of human behavior and the light that shines even there. I hope you enjoy this episode with Ahley Love Richards and you learn something new to help you go through life with your eyes wide open! Find Ashley Love Richards here: Website: https://tsfuthepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tsfuthepodcast/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TSFU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@harlotsjezebels Additional Links: https://www.tearsofeden.org/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

****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. Elana emphasizes the significance of self-identity and finding purpose in every season of life. Elana also discusses the impact of external validation and the value of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. Throughout our chat, she emphasizes the importance of choosing love, compassion, and intentional daily choices. She shares her journey of personal growth and becoming a Neurocycle facilitator. She emphasizes the importance of knowing your limits and priorities before making commitments. Elana also discusses the power of asking the right questions and overcoming imposter syndrome. As a student of Dr. Carolina Leaf, She shares how she discovered and decided to apply to her program to learn the process of rewiring the brain and changing thinking patterns through neuroplasticity and mind management. She highlights the significance of pausing and rest in a society focused on productivity. We discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of sharing personal stories, and the need for communication, collaboration, and continual learning in building a community. They also discuss the importance of using love and compassion in communication and taking control of our thoughts and lives while making time to express gratitude and use our voices to make a change. Check out this episode with Elana to help us go through life with our eyes wide open! Please like, share, and subscribe! I’m glad you’re here. Find Elana Van Deventer here: Websites: https://www.elanavandeventer.com/ https://she-unite.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elanavdeventer/ Additional Links: https://www.neurocycle.app/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EngageWithNick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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. We explore the causes of worsening mental health, including financial stress, culture, and the difficulty of finding relaxation in a constantly connected world. She emphasizes the importance of leaning into discomfort and being fully present in order to find calm and joy and the importance of making small changes to improve mental health. We also highlight the differences between introversion and extroversion and the need for setting boundaries in various aspects of life, including work and social media. Lastly, Dr. Rabon asks me a compelling question: What impact does watching reality TV have on people's mental health? The answer might surprise you! Check out this episode with Dr. Rabon, and please like, share, and subscribe! Find Dr. Jessica Rabon here: Website: https://jessicaleighphd.wixsite.com/mysite Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicaleighphd/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessicaleighphd Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwVZNyrZU-ThN-q3rsL7rJQ Psych Talk Podcast: https://jessicaleighphd.wixsite.com/mysite/podcast Welcome to Group Therapy Podcast: http://tinyurl.com/2p97mf2f Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EngageWithNick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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 (America’s Next Top Model). In addition, we’ll close the episode with The UCAN Foundation, which I co-founded with Jeremy Hartwell and Dr. Isabelle Morley to provide mental health and legal services to reality TV cast members. A lot of progress was made in 2023 to reshape the reality TV industry to be more ethical. I'm getting ready to lock it down and move forward and force this change in 2024. I hope that you get some enjoyment out of this best of episode as we head into the new year with our eyes wide open. Listen to the Full Episodes here: Stephanie Davison: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000626040278 Corrine Hatch: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000623014296 Olivia Frazer: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000638273767 Alyssa Barmonde: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000617657232 Danielle Ruhl Part 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000614949697 Daniell Ruhl Part 2: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000615814101 UCAN Foundation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000616767280 Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EngageWithNick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

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 focus on the reality TV industry and clips from some of the amazing guests that we've had this year, including my ex-wife, Danielle. I hope that you enjoy these clips, whether you’re taking a trip down memory lane, or perhaps explore some episodes you haven't listened to yet. So thank you, and I hope that this helps you go through life with your eyes wide open. Listen to the Full Episodes here: Dr. Kirk Honda: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000614097530 Calley Means: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000637520722 Dr. Elizabeth Fedrick: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000621473887 Macy Schuchart: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000618440766 Rushi Kota: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000624478957 Callie Ezell Pt 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000632399936 Callie Ezell Pt 2: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000633177433 Eli Weinstein: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000627559325 Danny LoPriore: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyes-wide-open-with-nick-thompson/id1640110814?i=1000629998891 Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EngageWithNick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

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 participant Margie Ratliff to try to answer these questions. Margie first appeared in the public eye as a young person featured in the documentary “The Staircase,” and as a result experienced a lot of trauma from having her and her family’s entire life put on screen for others to see and judge. What's wonderful about Margie is she turned her experience and her love of filmmaking into becoming an activist for ethical filmmaking in the documentary space. She has recently produced an award-winning film-festival-darling documentary called “Subject,” which follows key participants in “The Staircase,” “Hoop Dreams,” “The Wolfpack,” “Capturing the Friedmans,” and “The Square” to explore how production and public reception affected them. When I connected with Margie, I was surprised to learn about the parallels documentary production has with reality TV in terms of exploitation. What's unique about “Subject” is the producers worked collaboratively with the participants in order to make sure people were taken care of before, during, and after filming (which is atypical of this industry). Margie and I have a lot in common in terms of how we are solving similar problems in different forms of media, and I wanted to explore that together in this episode. I hope you enjoy this podcast. If you haven't already, go watch Subject. I hope that watching “Subject” and listening to this podcast helps you view documentary film, reality TV, and entertainment generally with your eyes wide open. Find “Subject” here: Amazon Prime: https://www.amazon.com/Subject-Margie-Ratliff/dp/B0CKYBQNJB/ AppleTV: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/subject/umc.cmc.6jcylwu9rtti7bbsx0696tzez VUDU: https://www.vudu.com/content/browse/details/Subject/2594913?cmp=OrganicSearch~Vudu~GoogleWatch Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/movies/details/Subject?id=GE-w09yzR8o.P&hl=en&gl=IE&pli=1 Kanopy: https://www.kanopy.com/en/product/13845688 Find Marjie here: DPEA Website: https://www.dpealliance.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grandefillepetitevoiture/?hl=en Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/ UCAN Foundation: https://www.ucanfoundation.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EngageWithNick LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/