How Did You Do It

How a Hug, a Meal, and a Chat Can Save a Life - The Big Umbrella Foundation

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of The Big Umbrella Foundation (TBU), an extraordinary food relief and community-building organisation based in Melbourne. From its humble beginnings with pancakes and soup on trestle tables, TBU has grown into a movement that rescues food, alleviates food insecurity, and creates spaces of dignity, belonging, and connection for what they call their “friends on the street.” We hear stories of chance encounters, the joy and meaning found in volunteering, and the raw honesty of those who’ve been served. From moments of deep gratitude, to full-circle transformations—like a man once in the food line returning to volunteer—this conversation highlights the healing power of service, community, and compassion. We also explore: * How a Chance Encounter under the Dalai Lama Sparked a Movement * How Pancakes, Dignity + Community Feed a City * How Food Rescue Turns Waste into Warmth * Why volunteering floods the body with endorphins and oxytocin. * The hidden crisis of food insecurity affecting students, families, and working people. * Why spreading good news stories is as important as addressing the challenges we face. Takeaways: * Service is “smart selfish”: giving also heals the giver * Belonging is built through language, consistency, and fun * Small acts (a hot meal, a hug, a chat) can change the arc of a life If you loved this: volunteer, fund a team day, or share this episode with one person who needs a hopeful story today. This episode is a reminder that one small act of service—whether offering a meal, a conversation, or a smile—can ripple outward and transform lives. Resources & Links: * Learn more about The Big Umbrella Foundation [https://thebigumbrella.org/] * Volunteer, donate, or support TBU’s work. * Connect with TBU on instagram @thebigumbrella [https://www.instagram.com/thebigumbrella/?hl=en] * Connect with Gabrielle on Instagram: @gabimeyer or @hdydi.pod

Solo Episode: The Universe Says Yes (Eventually)

Wowee! 3 months since I've been solo on the mic! In this episode, I’m back on the mic with a big warm hello and a deep exhale. We cover a lot, from the season of winter, the Endorphin Effect challenge, to voice notes from friends feeling lost, flat, or unsure of their path… and the reminder that you’re not the only one. I share a personal story of reconnection, a friendship that found its way back after 10 years apart — and explore what it really means when people say, “If it’s meant to be, it’ll come back.” Plus, a gentle tool that’s helped me move through stuck seasons: The Universe says yes, the Universe says no. Whether you’re in a good season, a hard one, or just a meh one… may this episode remind you: things always shift, and you’re never as alone as you think.

How I Made It to the Olympics: Emma Nedov on Resilience and Grit

This episode is all about resilience and identity at its core. From stepping into a gym at just five years old to finally qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Emma Nedov’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. As a World Cup Gold Medalist and now an Olympic Athlete, Emma shares what it truly means to keep going when the odds are stacked against you, especially when the setbacks are completely out of your control. We dive into the identity shifts that come with devoting your life to a sport, explore the mindset of a high-performing athlete, and unpack the tools that helped Emma turn adversity into fuel. Her story is raw, powerful, and full of wisdom for anyone navigating transition, chasing a dream, or learning to rise again with purpose and strength.

How a Single Reiki Session Shifted My Beliefs About Energy Healing and Psychic Messages - Casey Melbourne Reiki and Wellness

In this episode of How Did You Do It, I sit down with Casey from Melbourne Reiki and Wellness to explore the incredible world of reiki and psychic connection. I share how I went from a total skeptic to a true believer after experiencing Casey’s powerful sessions — including the moment her spot-on psychic messages completely changed my perspective. We dive into Casey’s journey as a psychic, how she receives and interprets messages, and what it's really like to tap into intuitive gifts. Her honesty, warmth, and talent shine through every moment of this conversation. Post recording this episode I also found out that Casey has been awarded most popular Reiki practitioner for 2022 and 2024! If you’ve ever been curious (or skeptical!) about reiki, energy healing, or psychic intuition — this is the episode for you. You can find Casey's offerings here [https://www.instagram.com/melbournereikiandwellness?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==] and here [https://melbournereikiandwellness.com.au/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACwBNc17MHdJcj0AD1f4vOlEDR8MR&gclid=CjwKCAjwq7fABhB2EiwAwk-YbCQVgtrVRG4nBiVvmZDf1HdFG2LjTLMl1uLOgzntTDBTI2Nnw6KSwxoCadUQAvD_BwE]

Solo Episode: Loving Yourself Through The Mess

In this raw solo episode, I get real about what it means to show up in your life and work when things feel messy. Sometimes, discipline and routine doesn't work - we just need to stop fighting ourselves. From here, we can get back to our values, and live a life that feels truly aligned. Plus, I discuss some juicy updates about exciting new projects including co-facilitation of the Kindred Collective membership, upcoming community events, and meditation classes. This episode is a beautiful invitation to be human, to reflect on who you are becoming, and to find your people along the way. Sponsored by Rise Practice Download it from the App Store [https://apps.apple.com/au/app/rise-practice-mindful-stretch/id6739272230] and enjoy 2 months free, or sign up at rise-practice.com [http://rise-practice.com/] with the code HDYDI for 3 months free! Follow on Instagram: @gabimeyer | @hdydipod Kindred Collective Membership Waitlist: details @_growgirlgrow_ Find me teaching Meditation at Happy Melon and Trinity Curated Wellness. 💛