Eyes Wide Open with Nick Thompson

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 evol...

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 counte...

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 o...

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 rock show experiences, dating, and reality TV.  ...

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 dating practices.    They tackle the pitfalls of ins...

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 who she was meant to be.  Join us as she reveals...

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, shedding light on the often-overlooked challenges...

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 press are cornerstones of his political activism...

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 often-underestimated stigma surrounding mental h...

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 battling the lasting effects of long-haul COVID that...

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-year anniversary of the UCAN (Unscripted Cast Advo...

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 shifts to men's mental health, where Dr. Rivera c...

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 over the editing process and the show's unrealisti...

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 bullying to the influential roles of bloggers, Red...

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 how she stumbled into reality TV fame. From her i...

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 humanity. In this episode, Pavel joins Nick to delve...

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, s...

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...

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 per...

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 employ...

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...

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 a...

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.  ...

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 s...

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 journe...