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Eyes Wide Open with Nick Thompson

Eyes Wide Open with Nick Thompson

By: Nick Thompson
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About this listen

 Are you going through life blind? This is Eyes Wide Open with Nick Thompson. On this show, we share knowledge and stories that build human connection while elevating stigmatized societal issues, including mental health, holistic wellness, culture, free speech, and more, all to ensure we show up in the world with our Eyes Wide Open. You may know Nick Thompson from his appearance on season two of Netflix's hit reality show Love is Blind, but there's a side of him you may not know: The Storyteller. Nick firmly believes that everyone has a story to tell, and is building a forum for people to share theirs openly and honestly. Nick doesn't shy away from the hardball questions but facilitates a space where even people who disagree are comfortable sharing and learning from each other. Don't go through life blind. Do the work so you can show up in the world with your eyes wide open.©2024 Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Social Sciences
Episodes
  • The Amanita Muscaria Mushroom Effect on Mental Health and Addiction w/Christian Rasmussen

    The Amanita Muscaria Mushroom Effect on Mental Health and Addiction w/Christian Rasmussen
    Dec 9 2025

    In this conversation, Christian Rasmussen shares his journey from addiction to becoming an advocate for plant medicine, particularly Amanita Muscaria.

    He discusses the transformative effects of microdosing, the science behind Amanita, and its potential benefits for mental health.

    Nick explored Christian's story of addiction and the impact it was having on his mental health, relationships, and ability to be the person he wanted to be.

    The conversation also touches on the legality of plant medicine and how the new research is showing the benefits of plant-based medicine for the treatment of many mental health conditions.

    As the founder of Amantara, Christian shares the importance of spirituality and connection to nature in personal healing.

    Christian emphasizes the need for education and community support in promoting the benefits of plant medicine.

    Key Takeaways

    • Christian Rasmussen's journey from addiction to plant medicine advocacy.
    • Amanita muscaria's potential benefits for mental health and neuroplasticity.
    • Microdosing can provide immediate and long-term benefits.
    • The importance of personal experience and journaling in the healing process.
    • Amanita muscaria is legal in most states, except Louisiana.
    • The need for research and education on plant medicine.
    • Christian's vision for Amantara includes community support and healing.
    • Spirituality plays a significant role in personal growth and healing.
    • The connection between nature and mental well-being.
    • The potential for psychedelics to become more mainstream in mental health treatment.




    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Christian Rasmussen and Plant Medicine Advocacy

    03:06 Christian's Journey: From Addiction to Plant Medicine

    05:58 Discovering Amanita Muscaria: A Life-Changing Encounter

    08:46 The Science Behind Amanita: GABA and Glutamate Systems

    11:56 Microdosing Amanita: Experiences and Benefits

    15:05 The Potential of Amanita in Mental Health Treatment

    18:00 Challenges in Researching Plant Medicines

    21:01 Dosing Amanita: Guidelines and Effects

    24:03 The Heroic Dose: Deep Insights and Experiences

    26:51 Connecting with the Higher Self through Amanita

    34:42 Exploring Plant-Based Medicines and Microdosing

    40:03 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Thought Monitoring

    44:37 Connecting with the Universe and Spirituality

    52:31 Legal Landscape of Psychedelics and Amanita

    56:56 Vision for Amanita and Community Impact



    Find Christian Rasmussen here:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amentara.shop/

    Website: https://www.amentara.com/

    YouTube: ​​https://www.youtube.com/@Amentara



    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 hr and 10 mins
  • Microdosing Ketamine: Everything You Need to Know About the Breakthrough Therapy w/ Dr. Sharon Niv

    Microdosing Ketamine: Everything You Need to Know About the Breakthrough Therapy w/ Dr. Sharon Niv
    Dec 2 2025
    In this episode, Dr. Sharon Niv discusses her work at Joyus, a public benefit company focused on revolutionizing mental health care through personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments. Dr. Sharon explains the history of ketamine as a treatment for mental health, its mechanisms of action, and the importance of community support in the healing process. Nick asks Dr. Sharon questions that address common concerns and stigma surrounding ketamine treatment, emphasizing its low risk and potential benefits. Their conversation also explores the role of neuroplasticity in mental health recovery and the future of AI in therapy. Dr. Sharon provides insights into personalized treatment protocols and encourages both patients and therapists to consider the benefits of ketamine therapy. Key Takeaways: Dr. Sharon Niv is a cognitive psychologist bridging neuroscience and therapy. Joyus offers personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments. Ketamine was first synthesized in the 1950s and is used safely in medical settings. The drug has shown promise in treating severe depression and suicidality. Ketamine works primarily on the glutamate system, unlike traditional psychedelics. Lower doses of ketamine can provide therapeutic benefits without destabilizing experiences. Community support is crucial for individuals undergoing ketamine treatment. Neuroplasticity allows the brain to change and adapt, which is enhanced by ketamine. Personalized treatment protocols are essential for effective ketamine therapy. AI has potential in mental health, but should not replace human therapists. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sharone Niv and Her Work 02:58 The Journey to Psychology and Entrepreneurship 05:47 The History and Safety of Ketamine 08:45 Ketamine as a Treatment for Mental Health 11:36 Understanding Ketamine's Mechanism and Effects 14:44 The Psycholytic State and Its Benefits 17:40 Addressing Stigma and Concerns Around Psychedelics 20:48 The Joyus Approach to Microdosing Ketamine 23:24 Personal Experiences and Emotional Release 26:45 The Importance of Connection and Exploration 27:14 Exploring Psychoactive Substances and Their Impact 28:14 The Tragic Story of Matthew Perry 32:56 Neuroscience and Mental Health: The Role of Neuroplasticity 39:45 Personalized Treatment Protocols for Mental Health 45:22 Community Support in Mental Health Treatment 47:48 The Future of AI in Therapy 53:07 The Dark Side of AI in Mental Health 54:37 Innovative Uses of AI in Therapy 56:09 Training Therapists for New Technologies 59:43 The Journey of Integrating Ketamine Treatment 01:02:09 Encouragement for Patients and Therapists 01:04:22 Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Ketamine 01:09:52 Navigating the Decision to Try Ketamine 01:12:08 Practical Considerations for Microdosing Ketamine Find Dr. Sharon Niv here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyous.team/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyous.friends Website: https://www.joyous.team/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-niv/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/joyousteam/ 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 hr and 17 mins
  • The Wellness Glitch is Keeping You Sick & How to Regain Control of Your Health w/ Dr. Angela Petersen

    The Wellness Glitch is Keeping You Sick & How to Regain Control of Your Health w/ Dr. Angela Petersen
    Nov 18 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Angela Petersen discusses her journey from traditional nursing to regenerative medicine, emphasizing the importance of hormone optimization and the challenges posed by the current healthcare system.

    Dr. Angela details her transition from traditional nursing to regenerative medicine due to her deep passion for helping people reclaim their health.

    She critiques the influence of pharmaceutical advertising and the misconceptions surrounding health and healthcare treatments. Dr Angela and Nick also discuss the challenges of the healthcare system in the United States and how it prioritizes pharmaceutical profits over patient wellness.

    They also explore the details of how the U.S. healthcare system often treats symptoms rather than addressing root causes, and the heavy influence of pharmaceutical advertising on public perception of health and wellness.

    The discussion also touches on the role of influencers in health, the significance of nutrition, and how the political landscape misleads people about health and wellness products.

    Getting back to the basics, Dr. Angela shares her expertise on key fundamentals in our health, such as the importance of nitric oxide for circulation, sodium for hydration and cellular function, and how processed foods and seed oils contribute to chronic health issues.

    She also shares best practices and treatments for hormone regulation, optimal cellular function, and the significance of receiving personalized care from your physicians.

    Dr. Angela introduces her book, 'The Wellness Glitch,' which aims to address the systemic issues in healthcare and promote better health practices.



    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Dr. Angela Peterson

    02:46 The Evolution of Healthcare and Longevity

    05:42 Challenges in Traditional Medicine

    08:39 The Influence of Pharmaceutical Advertising

    11:51 The Impact of SSRIs and Mental Health

    14:43 The Role of Influencers in Health and Wellness

    17:51 Understanding Erectile Dysfunction and Treatment Options

    26:06 The Importance of Nitric Oxide

    28:55 Cellular Activity and Peptides

    30:23 The Role of Sodium in Health

    33:18 Debunking Dietary Myths

    38:08 The Politics of Food and Health

    46:43 Vaccines and Public Health Concerns

    52:55 The Complexity of COVID Vaccination

    57:45 Fear and Compliance During the Pandemic

    01:01:43 Exploring Health Glitches and Societal Issues

    01:07:38 Angela's Book: The Wellness Glitch

    01:15:52 Authenticity and Personal Experiences




    Find Angela Peterson here:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amplified_total_wellness/ | https://www.instagram.com/amplified1209/

    Website: www.ampdhealth.net

    The Wellness Glitch Book: https://tinyurl.com/ycy3stz9

    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 hr and 19 mins
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