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/ 

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/ 

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/

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/

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/

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 book, Neurodiversity Playbook, to help tame your digital beast, improve focus, and cultivate resilience.

Learn how to prioritize, manage your time effectively, and create space for mental clarity in a world that never seems to slow down.  

Whether you're struggling with executive functioning, seeking a better work-life balance, navigating the unique challenges of neurodiversity, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the constant influx of information, this episode offers valuable tools for navigating the modern chaos and reclaiming your peace of mind. 

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

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Dr. Matt Zakreski

02:00 Childhood Aspirations and Early Influences

11:06 The Journey to Psychology and Understanding Neurodivergence

14:56 Defining Neurodivergence and Its Importance

24:57 Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Individuals and Skill Development

26:19 Understanding Neurodivergence and Sensory Needs

32:34 The Importance of Diagnosis and Self-Understanding

35:39 Navigating Social Media and Misinformation

44:32 The Power of Thoughts and Emotional Responses

51:40 Executive Functioning and Overwhelm in Modern Life

53:20 Navigating Work and Digital Overload

56:35 The Unsolvable Problem of Workload

01:01:01 Understanding Executive Functioning

01:05:59 The Importance of Prioritization and Breaks

01:09:31 Introducing Dr. Matt's Book

01:12:30 Personal Growth and Resilience

01:20:30 Connecting with Dr. Matt

Find Dr. Matt Zakreski here:

Get the Book Neurodiversity Playbook- Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World

Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/ | https://theneurodivergentcollective.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmattzakreski/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-zakreski-0a32358 

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

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nerding-out-on-neurodiversity/id1771917660 

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/ 

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 seeks to understand the underlying causes of your health issues instead of masking symptoms, ultimately empowering you to address them at their core.

Your body is unique, and your healthcare should be too. Dr. Jaban emphasizes the need for tailored plans that consider your individual needs and goals.

But this episode is more than just a list of warnings. Dr. Jaban also provides practical solutions and actionable steps you can take to reclaim your health by creating a cleaner environment, detoxifying your home, choosing safer products, and minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals.

Nick and Dr. Jaban discuss the importance of clean water, and how to ensure you're drinking the purest water possible.

Tune into this episode to learn how functional medicine can accelerate your own healing so you can be your best self and go through life with your eyes wide open. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Root Cause Medicine

02:53 The Philosophy of Logical Medicine

06:11 Jaban's Personal Journey to Functional Medicine

09:07 Understanding Lyme Disease and Its Impact

11:51 The Role of Environmental Factors in Health

14:53 Balancing the Biome: A New Approach to Health

18:04 Identifying and Addressing Environmental Toxins

21:09 The Importance of Clean Water

24:06 Navigating the Challenges of Modern Water Supply

27:03 Practical Steps for Improving Health

29:53 The Impact of Hygiene Products on Health

32:37 The Dangers of Aluminum and Toxins

40:38 Understanding Hormonal Disruptors

48:14 The Science of the Body and Health

58:48 Functional Medicine: A Personalized Approach

Find Dr. Jaban Moore here:

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

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

Website: https://drjabanmoore.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjaban 

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/drjabamoore 

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/   

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, gaslighting, and boundaries, cutting through the social media noise to reveal what these terms *really* mean. 

Discover why throwing around clinical diagnoses can be harmful and how genuine compassion can pave the way for healthier connections.  

Dr. Morley doesn't just diagnose the problem; she offers solutions. 

Learn how to spot real red flags (in yourself and others!), navigate the complexities of modern dating and relationships, and how Dr. Morley's book opens the door to meaningful conversations about "therapy speak."

Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on "therapy speak" so you can ditch the buzzwords and approach the world with your eyes wide open. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Isabelle Morley and Her Work

05:03 Navigating Life Changes: Moving and Relationships

09:53 Understanding Therapy Speak and Its Impact

15:10 The Misuse of Mental Health Terms in Social Media

20:03 The Nuances of Mental Health Diagnosis

24:49 The Importance of Context in Mental Health

25:49 Navigating Relationships with Narcissists

27:10 The Misuse of Therapy Terminology

29:35 Defining Gaslighting: A Deeper Look

30:02 The Consequences of Misdiagnosis and Labeling

32:21 Gaslighting Beyond Romantic Relationships

37:52 Red Flags: Understanding Their True Meaning

47:40 The Weaponization of Boundaries

48:37 Understanding Boundaries: Definitions and Misuse

52:32 The Importance of Communication in Setting Boundaries

54:01 Self-Awareness and Personal Growth in Boundary Setting

56:44 Weaponization of Therapy Terms: Boundaries and Control

01:00:04 The Role of Social Media in Mental Health Awareness

01:01:53 Key Takeaways from 'They're Not Gaslighting You'

Find Dr. Isabelle Morley here:

PRE-ORDER “They’re Not Gaslighting You”

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

Website: https://drisabellemorley.com/ 

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/

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 front-row seat to my procedure, commentary, and experience of the entire process. But the real story unfolds in the aftermath, as my first day of recovery was far from smooth sailing. 

From there, we tracked my progress over several weeks, documenting the subtle shifts, the setbacks, and moments of genuine hope. This isn't just about stem cells; it's about the human experience of healing, pushing boundaries, and exploring the future of medicine.

Tune into this episode to learn about my regenerative stem cell therapy and follow my journey so you can navigate your own healing with your eyes wide open. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 

03:29 Reviewing the MRI of Nick’s Hip

23:58 Nick Heads to Vegas for his Stem Cell Procedure

25:19 Dr. Gross and Nick Pre-Procedure Preparation

32:20 Nick Explains His Procedure Experience

33:49 Nick Returns to Chicago

37.09 Dr. Jeff and Nick Follow-Up

50:09 Nick Gives His Latest Update

Find Dr. Jeffery Gross here:

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-gross-md-5605605/

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

Website: https://recellebrate.com/

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

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 provider. Dr. Jeff also combats rampant misinformation about stem cell therapy and reinforces the need to rely on scientifi research and literature. 

Dr. Jeff also shares insights on inflammation as a root cause of many health issues and offers advice for those considering stem cell therapies. He also shares his expert view on future research in stem cells that may lead to groundbreaking treatments for various conditions.

A few weeks after the initial recording, Nick and Dr. Jeff come back to the show to discuss the results of his recent MRI. They explore the symptoms, the initial injury, and the findings from the MRI, which indicate cartilage degeneration and potential treatment options. 

Dr. Jeff explains the injection procedure as an alternative to hip replacement, emphasizing the importance of bone health and the potential benefits of regenerative medicine. 

The discussion concludes with Nick expressing interest in the treatment and continuing to share his journey of regenerative stem cell therapy and healing with Dr. Jeff.

Tune into this episode to learn about regenerative stem cell therapy and follow Nick’s journey so you can navigate your own healing with your eyes wide open. 

Check out the video version on Youtube YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jeffrey Gross and Stem Cells

02:58 The Growing Concern of Cancer Diagnoses

06:01 Understanding Stem Cells: Basics and Types

08:51 Navigating Misinformation About Stem Cells

12:13 The Role of FDA and Insurance in Stem Cell Treatments

15:02 Use Cases for Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine

17:51 Patient Experience: IVs and Injections

21:04 Challenges of Traditional Medicine vs. Regenerative Approaches

23:48 The Importance of Finding Open-Minded Doctors

27:01 Future of Stem Cell Research and Applications

29:58 Inflammation: The Root of Many Health Issues

32:54 Transformational Patient Stories

36:01 Side Effects and Considerations for Stem Cell Treatments

39:00 The Role of Inflammation in Aging

42:02 Advice for Exploring Stem Cell Opportunities

44:55 Conclusion and Future Steps

Find Dr. Jeffery Gross here:

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

TikTok

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-gross-md-5605605/

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

Website: https://recellebrate.com/

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/