Episodios

  • Theatre Play Tackles Reality TV Impact on Society w/ Laura Shipler Chico & Andy McLeod

    Theatre Play Tackles Reality TV Impact on Society w/ Laura Shipler Chico & Andy McLeod
    Jul 2 2025

    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 in the consumption of media.

    The episode emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in the portrayal of real people on screen, as well as the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a curated world.

    I hope this conversation enlightens you on the importance of arts as cultural commentary and helps you show up in the world with your eyes wide open.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Gooper Dust Productions

    02:44 Childhood Dreams and Career Paths

    05:17 The Leap into Acting and Producing

    08:21 The Vision Behind Reality Bites

    11:17 The Impact of Reality TV on Lives

    14:18 Exploring Themes of Consumption and Identity

    17:24 Character Perspectives in Reality Bites

    20:21 Directorial Approach to Monologues

    23:37 The Role of Social Media in Reality TV

    26:26 Concluding Thoughts on Reality and Performance

    36:12 Character Exploration and Direction

    37:25 Patty's Motivations for Joining Reality TV

    39:10 The Complexity of Patty's Character

    40:29 Tone and Humor in Storytelling

    45:25 Reality TV and Identity Crisis

    49:23 Post-Show Life and Advocacy

    50:25 Authenticity vs. Narrative in Reality TV

    55:30 Viewer Complicity in Reality TV

    59:17 Final Thoughts on Humanity and Reality TV



    Find Laura Shipler-Chico & Andy McLeod here:

    Laura Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terranewell

    Andy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andymcleod09/

    Gooper Dust Instagram: https://www.gooperdust.com/

    Indie GoGo: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/off-in-a-cloud-of-gooper-dust#/

    Website: https://www.gooperdust.com/

    Find Nick Thompson here:

    Nick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/

    UCAN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

    UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/

    Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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    1 h y 17 m
  • IRAN FALLOUT: Discussing the Implications of Trump’s Attack on Iran w/ Kit Cabello & Larry Sharpe

    IRAN FALLOUT: Discussing the Implications of Trump’s Attack on Iran w/ Kit Cabello & Larry Sharpe
    Jun 24 2025

    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 Show.

    Kit, Larry, and Nick explore the implications of these actions on international relations, public opinion, and the potential for escalation into a larger conflict.

    They go on to emphasize the need for public engagement and the importance of diplomacy over military action, while also addressing the potential consequences of the current trajectory.

    The conversation delves into the complexities of war, politics, and public perception, emphasizing the need for unity in the face of war with Iran and the importance of independent media.

    They emphasize the importance of activism and collective action in driving change, while also addressing the challenges presented by political hypocrisy and the impact of media narratives.

    Find Nick Thompson here:

    Nick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ UCAN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/
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    53 m
  • ‘Dirty John’ Survivor Turns Traumatic Experience into Advocacy for True Crime Ethics w/ Terra Newell

    ‘Dirty John’ Survivor Turns Traumatic Experience into Advocacy for True Crime Ethics w/ Terra Newell
    Jun 17 2025
    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. Terra discusses the challenges of navigating public life, the ethics of true crime journalism, and the emotional impact of her story on her identity and future family. Through her advocacy work, she aims to promote responsible storytelling in the true crime genre, empowering survivors and ensuring they are properly represented and compensated for their stories. Nick and Terra explore themes of survival, morality, personal identity, and the impact of public perception. They discuss how fictional narratives, particularly from shows like “The Walking Dead,” influence their views on survival and morality in extreme situations. Terra shares her personal experiences with trauma and how they shape her identity, while Nick reflects on the challenges of being defined by his past on reality TV. They also delve into the complexities of navigating public perception, especially in relation to their advocacy work and political beliefs, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures. They go on to discuss the complexities of navigating public reactions to personal opinions, particularly in the realm of social media and Reddit. The conversation continues on to the ethical responsibilities of podcasters, the importance of empowering survivors through education, and the challenges of maintaining personal relationships in the public eye. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of accountability and respect in storytelling, content, and the impact of public perception on the personal lives of participants and subjects. I hope this conversation enlightens you on the importance of ethics in content creation and helps you show up in the world with your eyes wide open. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Terra Newell 05:29 The Dirty John Experience 10:54 Turning Trauma into Empowerment 19:30 The Ethics of True Crime 24:04 Navigating Public Life and Personal Identity 34:01 Survival Strategies Inspired by Fiction 37:04 The Complexity of Morality in Survival Situations 41:01 Personal Reflections on Identity and Trauma 49:04 Navigating Public Perception and Personal Advocacy 55:51 The Intersection of Politics and Personal Beliefs 01:03:28 Navigating Public Reactions and Personal Accountability 01:05:22 Ethics in True Crime Podcasting 01:11:01 Empowering Survivors Through Education 01:18:22 The Impact of Reality TV on Personal Lives 01:22:10 Maintaining Relationships in the Public Eye Find Terra Newell here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terranewell Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terrasbaddyclub/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@terranewell YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@terranewellsurvivor Website: https://www.terranewellsurvival.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/terras-baddy-club Find Nick Thompson here: Nick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ UCAN Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/
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    1 h y 31 m
  • Therapists are Human Too and Must Engage in Self-Care and Community Support w/ Cassandra Musumeci & Andrea Rockefeller

    Therapists are Human Too and Must Engage in Self-Care and Community Support w/ Cassandra Musumeci & Andrea Rockefeller
    Jun 3 2025

    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 boundaries, and the necessity of self-care among therapists.

    They emphasize the humanity of therapists and the importance of creating a safe space for connection and collaboration.

    As the discussion progresses, many other topics are explored, including how therapists are perceived as experts and the responsibilities that come with this role, how social media both helps and harms the mental health community, and how they strive to achieve their goal of humanizing therapists.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Human Therapist Community

    02:01 Personal Journeys to Becoming Therapists

    04:00 Transitioning to Private Practice

    08:10 Building Connections in a Virtual World

    11:16 The Motivation Behind the Human Therapist Community

    14:42 Navigating Virtual Therapy

    18:55 The Role of Social Media in Therapy

    22:59 The Impact of TikTok on Mental Health Awareness

    28:07 Ethics and Challenges of Social Media for Therapists

    31:29 Navigating Leadership and Imposter Syndrome

    32:51 The Impact of Cancel Culture

    36:52 Self-Reflection and Online Interactions

    38:47 Building Resilience in the Face of Criticism

    44:11 Creating a Supportive Community for Therapists

    48:24 Setting Boundaries in Therapy Practice

    56:08 Engaging with the Therapist Community through Book Clubs



    Find Cassandra & Andrea here:

    Instagrams: https://www.instagram.com/yourhumantherapists/ | https://www.instagram.com/yournytherapists/

    Website: https://www.humantherapists.com/

    LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/yourhumantherapists

    Find Nick Thompson here:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

    UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/

    Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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    1 h y 6 m
  • Corporate Culture SUCKS! Why NOW is the Time to Change the Work Model w/ Angela Howard

    Corporate Culture SUCKS! Why NOW is the Time to Change the Work Model w/ Angela Howard
    May 27 2025
    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 expectations and demanding accountability from employers. Angela and Nick go on to discuss the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility, trust in organizations, and the need for cultural change within workplaces. They explore how traditional advertising is failing, the burden of healthcare on corporations, and the political and economic divides affecting society. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of empowering leadership and the necessity for organizations to genuinely engage with their employees rather than merely paying lip service to their needs. Angela and Nick Thompson also explore the evolving landscape of leadership, workplace culture, and the importance of psychological safety and dignity in the workplace. They discuss generational perspectives on work, the impact of economic anxiety, and the need for a human-centric approach in both work and entertainment. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of empowering others and creating environments where individuals feel safe and valued. Angela also shares her experience from conducting the most recent Culture Impact Lab as a new model for addressing workplace culture issues through collaboration and creativity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Angela Howard and Her Journey 03:02 The Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship 06:04 COVID-19: A Catalyst for Change 08:59 The Impact of COVID-19 on Workplace Dynamics 12:02 Generational Shifts in Work Culture 15:02 The Role of Social Issues in Corporate Culture 18:00 Boundaries Between Work and Life 20:48 Gen Z's Approach to Work and Social Responsibility 24:03 The Influence of Social Media on Brand Trust 26:27 The Shift in Advertising and Trust 28:13 The Evolving Role of Organizations in Society 30:08 The Burden of Healthcare on Corporations 32:44 The Political and Economic Divide 34:16 Accountability in Leadership 38:06 The Need for Cultural Change in Organizations 39:49 Lip Service vs. Real Change in Corporate Culture 47:09 Empowering Leadership for a Better Workplace 48:17 Empowering Leadership and Team Dynamics 49:15 The Importance of Psychological Safety 50:48 Dignity in the Workplace 51:53 Generational Perspectives on Work Culture 52:51 Economic Anxiety and Its Impact 55:12 Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in Work 56:46 The Future of Work Culture 58:02 Culture Impact Lab: A New Approach to Conferences 01:01:01 Empowering Others in Leadership 01:04:00 Human-Centric Entertainment and Storytelling Find Angela Howard here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelarhowardcfc/ | https://www.instagram.com/callforculture/ Website: https://callforculture.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/call-for-culture/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelarhowardconsulting/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-responsibility-at-work/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/
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    1 h y 11 m
  • REALITY CHECK! Rutgers' New Study on Reality TV Participants' Mental Health w/ Christine Chapais

    REALITY CHECK! Rutgers' New Study on Reality TV Participants' Mental Health w/ Christine Chapais
    May 20 2025

    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 the challenges reality TV cast members face regarding public perception and editing.

    The conversation also touches on the future of reality TV contracts in light of AI risks and the need for ethical standards in entertainment. In this conversation, Christine and Nick explore the complexities of reality TV, focusing on the unfulfilled motivations and expectations of participants, the impact of narrative identity theory, and the mental health challenges faced by cast members.

    They discuss the importance of informed consent, the role of editing in shaping identities, and the need for better support systems within the industry. The conversation highlights the emotional toll of disenfranchised grief and the struggle for authenticity in a highly edited environment.

    Christine Chapais and Nick also explore the complex interplay between reality TV, mental health, and identity. They discuss the long-term effects of shame, the dangers of becoming a character on screen, and the need for better mental health support for reality TV participants.

    They emphasize the importance of treating reality TV cast members as real people and advocate for ethical production practices. The conversation concludes with a call to action for viewers to engage with reality TV responsibly and empathetically.

    Find Christine Chapais here:

    Read the FULL study: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fppm0000597

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinechapais/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrissy4missy/

    Find Nick Thompson here:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

    UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/

    Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/
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    1 h y 19 m
  • Married at First Sight Participant Speaks Out About Unethical Production Practices and What Needs to Change w/ Ben Walters

    Married at First Sight Participant Speaks Out About Unethical Production Practices and What Needs to Change w/ Ben Walters
    May 13 2025

    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 conversation also touches on cultural differences between Australia and the U.S., highlighting the unique perspectives each country brings to the table regarding politics and social norms.

    Ben's story serves as a call to action and a reminder for viewers and industry professionals to prioritize the well-being of reality TV participants and to question the narratives presented on screen.

    Find Ben Walters here:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walters_tours

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@walters_tours

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-walters-1547b54a/

    Podcast: https://linktr.ee/walters_tours

    Find Nick Thompson here:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

    UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/

    Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/

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    1 h y 27 m
  • How to Heal and Unlock Your Potential with Nourishment w/ Isabel Chiara

    How to Heal and Unlock Your Potential with Nourishment w/ Isabel Chiara
    Feb 25 2025

    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 triggers, and our often complex relationship with food, offering tools for personal development.

    Learn about manifestation and creative visualization, the shift in collective consciousness post-COVID, and the healing power of nurturing our relationships.

    Whether you're curious about past lives, seeking deeper self-understanding, navigating personal growth, or simply feeling a call to explore your spirituality, this episode offers valuable insights for embracing your authentic self and creating a life filled with purpose and joy.

    Tune in now and discover how to thrive, not just survive, so you can show up in the world with your heart wide open.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Isabel Chiara and Her Journey

    02:56 Exploring Past Life Regression and Its Impact

    05:55 The Power of Inner Work and Self-Actualization

    09:01 Understanding Energy and Its Influence

    12:01 The Concept of Nourishment in Personal Growth

    15:10 Manifestation and Creative Visualization

    17:54 The Role of Self-Talk in Personal Development

    21:10 Nourishing Relationships with Food

    24:10 Triggers and Self-Sabotage in Eating Habits

    33:41 Awakening Consciousness

    36:53 Navigating Health and Environmental Awareness

    41:14 The Birth of the Nourish App

    49:21 Exploring Guided Meditations and Activations

    54:01 Healing Relationships and Personal Growth

    01:00:14 The Power of Podcasting and Connection

    Find Isabel Chiara here:

    FREE MONTH Nourish App: https://isabel-chiara.com/podcast-gift/

    Website: https://isabel-chiara.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/isabel.chiari.50

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nourish_isabelchiara/

    Books: https://isabel-chiara.com/books/

    Find Nick Thompson here:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

    UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/

    Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/
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    1 h y 6 m