A graduate of Des Moines Roosevelt High School, Dr. Nichols wrestled four seasons for the Roughriders and is a self-described "avid fan of Hawkeye and Cyclone wrestling," having attended five NCAA championship Meets. Following his high school education, Dr. Nichols earned a B.S. Degree in Biology in 1984. Starting in 1986 he enrolled at the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Services in Des Moines and in June 1990 he earned his degree of Doctor of Osteopathy. He did his internship at Des Moines General Hospital, 1990-91 and was an Anesthesia Resident at the University of Nebraska Medical Center from 1991-94. Since 1993 he has been a licensed physician in Iowa and currently is a practicing Anesthesiologist Physician with certification in Advanced Cardiac life Support and Advanced Trauma life Support. Since 1995 he has been certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology. He has traveled to Central Mexico on multiple occasions to provide medical care for the indigent population. Aside from his interest in wrestling he is currently working on a "blue belt" in Jui Jitsu. Dr. Nichols is married and makes his home in Ankeny.