In this episode of Eyes Wide Open, Nick Thompson engages with Julian Bermudez, a trauma-informed psychedelic integration guide. They explore Julian's journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a guide for others seeking healing through psychedelics. Julian shares insights on trauma, the importance of self-awareness, and the stigma surrounding psychedelics, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in healing processes. Julian emphasizes the need for individuals responsibility i...
Jul 08, 2025•1 hr 5 min
In this episode, Nick chats with Laura Shipler-Chico and Andy McLeod, the creative minds behind Gooper Dust Productions and their upcoming play, Reality Bites. The conversation explores their motivations behind founding their theater production company, and the themes of their play ‘Reality Bites.” “Reality Bites” critiques the impact of reality TV on individuals and society. They discuss the complexities of character development, the importance of tone in storytelling, and the audience's role i...
Jul 02, 2025•1 hr 17 min
Full Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGoZ5tc-Hjc&t=518s SPECIAL NOTE: This episode of Eyes Wide Open features several key clips from a Hard Lens Media live stream, where Nick, Kit Cabello, and Larry Sharpe discuss the aftermath of the recent military strikes ordered by President Trump against Iran. Kit Cabello is a veteran, co-founder, and host of Hard Lens Media, a daily independent news show. Larry Sharpe is a veteran, former candidate for NY Mayor, and host of the Sharpe Way ...
Jun 24, 2025•53 min
In this emotion-filled and riveting conversation, Terrra Newell joins Nick to share her journey from surviving “Dirty John” Meehan’s attack to reclaiming her life as a survivor and advocate for ethical true crime content creation. She recounts her traumatic experience with the attack from psychopath “Dirty John,” which led to her self-defense act that gained media attention. She further shares her journey from feeling like a victim to becoming a survivor who supports and advocates for others. Te...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 31 min
In this conversation, Nick Thompson speaks with Cassandra Musumeci and Andrea Rockefeller, licensed mental health counselors and co-founders of the Human Therapist Community. They discuss their personal journeys to becoming therapists, the motivation behind creating a supportive community for therapists, and the challenges of navigating virtual therapy during the pandemic and now as a new normal. The conversation also explores the impact of social media on therapy, the importance of setting boun...
Jun 03, 2025•1 hr 6 min
In this episode, Angela Howard, a former executive leader turned equity-centered organizational culture strategist, shares her journey from wanting to be a paleontologist to becoming a change agent in the workplace. She discusses the impact of COVID-19 on work dynamics, the generational shifts in corporate culture, and the importance of social responsibility in organizations. Angela emphasizes the need for boundaries between work and life, particularly for Gen Z, who are redefining workplace exp...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 11 min
In this episode of Eyes Wide Open, Nick Thompson interviews Christine Chapais, a licensed social worker and assistant professor at Rutgers School of Social Work, about her new research on the mental wellbeing of reality TV participants. They discuss the intersection of performing arts and social work, the impact of social media on mental health, and the ethical considerations surrounding reality TV. Christine shares insights on disinhibition in online behavior, the importance of mindfulness, and...
May 20, 2025•1 hr 19 min
In this engaging conversation, Ben Walters, a reality TV advocate and former cast member of 'Married at First Sight,' shares his journey from a travel guide to a prominent reality TV personality. He discusses the dark side of reality television, including the mental health challenges faced by cast members and the ethical concerns surrounding production practices. Ben emphasizes the need for independent mental health support and advocates for greater awareness and change within the industry. The ...
May 13, 2025•1 hr 27 min
In this inspiring episode, Isabel Chiara, a life coach and author, embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She shares her path from the structure of traditional teachings to the expansive realm of spirituality and self-actualization. We delve into Isabel's exploration of past life regression, the transformative power of inner work, and her unique concept of "nourishment" for personal growth. Isabel shares her expertise and practical insights into the crucial role of self-talk, understanding trig...
Feb 25, 2025•1 hr 6 min
In this insightful episode, Dr. Matt Zakreski, a clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiversity, explores the universal challenges of navigating our increasingly complex world, from digital overload and constant distractions to the pressure to perform constantly. We delve into the impact of these pressures on mental well-being, examining how they affect everyone, including those with neurodivergent brains. Dr. Matt shares his expertise and practical, actionable strategies from his work and...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 24 min
Are you tired of feeling sick and tired? Nick is joined by Dr. Jaban Moore, a leading expert in functional medicine, who challenges the conventional approach to healthcare and reveals the hidden threats sabotaging your well-being. In this eye-opening episode, you'll discover the shocking truth about everyday toxins from the aluminum in your antiperspirant to the phthalates lurking in your personal care products. Dr. Jaban talks about the power of root cause medicine and how functional medicine s...
Feb 04, 2025•1 hr 5 min
Join us as we sit down with Dr. Isabelle Morley, psychologist, couples counselor, and author of the groundbreaking new book "They're Not Gaslighting You: Ditch Therapy Speak and Stop Hunting for Red Flags in Every Relationship." Dr. Morley is here to help decode the "therapy speak" that has infiltrated our social media, relationships, and communication. Many of us are confused and misunderstanding what these terms actually mean. In this eye-opening episode, we discuss the truth about narcissism,...
Jan 28, 2025•1 hr 13 min
For the full experience, I recommend you watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8P7gltmG0DE Watch Part 1: https://youtu.be/lsc4yaILBXw In this special “cinematic” episode, Dr. Gross and I take you on an intimate, visually-driven exploration of my stem cell treatment experience – the good, the bad, and the unexpected. We kick things off by diving deep into my MRI results with the renowned Dr. Gross before heading to Las Vegas for my stem cell treatment procedure. Brace yourself for a fro...
Jan 21, 2025•56 min
In this conversation, Dr. Jeffrey Gross, a renowned neurological surgeon and anti-aging specialist, discusses the potential of stem cells in regenerative medicine. He highlights the increasing prevalence of cancer diagnoses and the importance of understanding stem cells, their types, and their applications. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by the FDA and insurance companies, the patient experience with stem cell treatments, and the significance of finding the right healthcare pr...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 1 min
Ready to start 2025 navigating the tricky terrain of modern dating? Join Nick Thompson on Eyes Wide Open as he sits down with renowned relationship expert Dr. Frankie, who has orchestrated over 25,000 matches! They tackle the challenges of finding genuine connection in a world saturated with social media and political divides. Dr. Frankie offers invaluable advice on communication, vulnerability, and the evolving landscape of matchmaking. Whether you're actively dating or just curious about moder...
Jan 07, 2025•56 min
In this episode, we take a look back at the best 2024 Reality TV-focused clips from Eyes with Open with Nick Thompson. The best clips from 2024 focused on Reality TV include: Michael Carroll, a former bachelor producer, discusses with Nick how reality TV viewers still buy whatever the producers and showrunners feed them. Matthew Dubila from Love is Blind shares what it felt like to be hated for something he didn’t actually do, but people believed he did based on manipulative editing. Attorney Ja...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 5 min
In this episode, we take a look back on the amazing year of 2024 for Eyes Wide Open with Nick Thompson. The best clips of 2024 include: Therapy Jeff and Nick discuss their youth sports experiences that promoted toxic masculinity. Timmy Gibson and Nick discuss how you can flirt with someone and not come across as creepy. Stef “Rocks” spills the tea on what happens behind the scenes at rock concerts and broadcasting. Madina Alam shares her mission to reframe what therapy should look like. Roberta ...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 12 min
In this episode of Eyes Wide Open, Nick chats with mental health advocate, author, and speaker Will Craig to discuss various aspects of mental health, personal growth, and the challenges of the holiday season. Will shares his journey of self-discovery, the importance of writing, and how he copes with chaos in his life. They also touch on the impact of loss, the significance of therapy, and the power of sharing experiences to help others feel less alone. They both share reflections on holiday exp...
Dec 17, 2024•1 hr 21 min
In part two of this engaging conversation, Nick and Dr. Evelyn Higgins delve into the results of Nick's Wired for Biohealth test, exploring the significance of biomarkers and epigenetics in understanding personal health. They discuss the importance of individualized health insights, the role of inflammation in various diseases, and the need for a more holistic approach to health that prioritizes understanding the underlying causes of symptoms rather than merely treating them with pharmaceuticals...
Dec 10, 2024•2 hr 5 min
In Part 1 of engaging conversation, Dr. Evelyn Higgins, an expert in addiction, mental health and wellness, joins to discuss the evolution of treatment methods that utilize our genetic make-up to make data-driven wellness decisions. She emphasizes the need for individualized treatment approaches and the significance of self-discovery in achieving personal goals. Dr. Higgins shares her personal journey in studying how DNA impacts our physical and mental wellness. Nick and Dr. Evelyn explore the i...
Dec 03, 2024•1 hr 18 min
In this solo episode, Nick discusses the challenges of navigating holiday stress and anxiety, particularly in the context of family gatherings and social media pressures. He emphasizes the importance of setting and enforcing boundaries to protect mental health and maintain relationships. Nick shares personal experiences and practical strategies for managing invasive questions, political conversations, and the impact of social media on self-perception. He encourages listeners to prioritize their ...
Nov 26, 2024•26 min
In this episode, Nick invites independent news host and founder of Hard Lens Media, Kit Cabello, to discuss the aftermath of the recent election. Kit and Nick discuss the mental health impacts of political outcomes, the role of social media in shaping political discourse, and the importance of maintaining personal relationships despite differing political views. They also explore the phenomenon of political meltdowns, the accountability of politicians, and the effects of censorship on free speec...
Nov 19, 2024•1 hr 19 min
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 understanding oneself and others, navigating emotional responses, and the necessity of initiating conversations in social settings. The discussion also highligh...
Nov 05, 2024•49 min
🗳️ 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 let Hollywood, influencers, family, or friends sway you without real alignment with your values. Respectful conversations are great, and we grow by l...
Nov 04, 2024•2 min
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 relationships. Anita shares her journey to becoming a therapist and her insights on navigatingare crucial for dating apps, emphasizing the need for thoughtf...
Oct 29, 2024•51 min
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 when trying to obtain legal services and how technology is playing a crucial role in transforming access to legal help. The conversation goes beyond th...
Oct 22, 2024•1 hr 10 min
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 boundaries, and the impact of overstimulation in today's world. Kate shares her journey from broadcast journalism to coaching and podcasting, emphasizing the ...
Oct 15, 2024•1 hr 27 min
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 aspiring architect to reality TV producer, the evolution of reality television, the impact of alcohol on cast dynamics, the editing process and its impacts ...
Oct 08, 2024•1 hr 9 min
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 up online. To some people, it might seem counterintuitive to unplug. But let me tell you, it was a game-changer to take a break from posting on LinkedI...
Aug 21, 2024•22 min
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 success. She delves into the therapeutic power of journaling, the importance of reaching out to a supportive network, and the vital role of therapy in ...
Aug 06, 2024•1 hr 14 min
