How’d You Do It? Stories of Resilience

Peta Thompson
  • 5.0 (7)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED DAILY
How’d You Do It? Stories of Resilience

For thousands of years, storytelling has been woven into the fabric of human existence, serving as a guiding light through the complexities of life as far back as the most ancient of cultures. In today’s fast-paced world, gathering around a fire to share stories is becoming a distant memory. Throughout my own journey, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know some of the most incredibly inspiring people whose stories will crack you open. Their journeys are not just tales of survival, but profound testaments to the undeniable resilience of the human spirit. Welcome to How’d You Do It: a podcast dedicated to the timeless art of storytelling, where stories of resilience come to life, igniting a spark of hope and reminding us of our innate capacity to overcome adversity and embrace the fullness of life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Episode 33. Creating a Life You Won’t Give Up On with Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld

    APR 24

    Episode 33. Creating a Life You Won’t Give Up On with Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld

    Episode 33. Creating a Life You Won’t Give Up On with Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld In this episode, I sit down with legendary skydiver, author, and speaker Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld, whose name has echoed in the skydiving world for decades. From watching his TED talk as a brand-new student in 2011 to jumping with him in 2013 and now finally sitting with him in this full-circle moment, this conversation felt incredibly special. Dan shares the extraordinary story of how he followed a childhood dream of human flight into a life of skydiving, championship competition, and ultimately—resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. After surviving a devastating plane crash that claimed 16 lives, left him in a coma, with substantial injuries, Dan made the seemingly impossible decision to heal, return, and continue living the dream he had fought so hard to create. We talk about the mental strength it takes to leap into the unknown, the profound lessons skydiving has offered him (and all of us who’ve flown beside him), and the true meaning of success - doing what you love with your whole heart. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to chase something wildly meaningful—despite fear, obstacles, or the odds—this conversation is for you. Learn more about Dan here: Dan’s book Above All Else danbrodskychenfeld.com IG: brodskychenfeld Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dan Brodsky-Chenfeld 02:54 The Journey of a Skydiver 06:01 The First Jump Experience 08:55 The Leap of Faith in Skydiving 12:11 Discovering Competitive Skydiving 15:04 The Rise of Professional Skydiving 18:12 The Impact of Sponsorship in Skydiving 20:53 Creating Opportunities in Skydiving 24:05 The New Team at Skydive Paris 31:34 The Road to Recovery 36:10 Grieving and Healing 41:01 The Drive to Return 44:17 Exploring Big Ways 46:40 The Journey of Writing a Book 53:27 Finding Strength in Adversity 58:01 Embracing Fear and Moving Forward ------------------------------------------------------------ How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 5m
  2. Episode 32. Behind the Kitchen Doors with Darius Waters

    APR 10

    Episode 32. Behind the Kitchen Doors with Darius Waters

    Episode 32. Behind the Kitchen Doors with Darius Waters In this episode, I sit down with my friend and longtime Shambhala neighbour, Darius Waters, for a really honest, down-to-earth conversation about his journey through addiction, burnout, and ultimately, healing. Darius shares what it was like working in the high-pressure world of fine dining as a chef—where long hours, heavy drinking, and drugs were just part of the culture. It wasn’t until the world slowed down during the pandemic that he finally saw his drinking for what it was: a problem that was taking over his life. We talk about the moment he knew he needed help, his experience walking into his first AA meeting, and how hard it was to get sober—not just physically, but emotionally. He’s now nearly three years sober, studying to become a youth counsellor, and mentoring kids through a powerful long-term program that supports youth for 12 years, no matter what. Darius is full of heart and humility. This episode is a reminder that healing is possible, that people can and do change, and that sometimes, rock bottom is what opens the door to a completely new way of living. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Darius Waters and His Work 03:07 The Impact of Mentorship on Youth 06:04 Transition from Culinary Career to Youth Mentorship 09:10 The Dark Side of the Culinary World 11:53 Reflections on Childhood and Family Influence 14:56 The Journey into Alcoholism 17:57 Realizations and Acceptance of Addiction 21:07 Life as a Chef: The Reality Behind the Scenes 24:03 The Culture of Substance Use in the Culinary Industry 30:31 The Struggles of Functioning Alcoholism 32:32 Pandemic Reflections and Realizations 36:29 The Turning Point: Seeking Help 39:29 First Steps into Recovery 44:48 The Hospital Experience and Acceptance 47:24 Life After Sobriety: New Beginnings 51:05 Finding Joy in New Outlets 53:23 How Darius Did It: A Summary of Growth ------------------------------------------------------------ How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts To work with Peta Thompson, head over to www.petathompson.com to learn more about her 1:1 offerings, workshops and courses. And my Online Yoga & Meditation Platform "Breathe, Move, Embody" Learn about my "Liberate your Life: Break Patterns & Find Freedom!" online course here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min
  3. Episode 31. From Homeless to Homeowner with Jeremy Kelly (Part 2)

    MAR 27

    Episode 31. From Homeless to Homeowner with Jeremy Kelly (Part 2)

    Episode 31. From Homeless to Homeowner with Jeremy Kelly (Part 2). Jeremy’s story was too big for just one episode—so here’s Part 2, the powerful conclusion. After years of addiction, violence, and survival on the streets, Jeremy finally hit his breaking point. In this episode, he shares the moment of complete surrender that changed everything and how he slowly rebuilt his life from the ground up. Now, after nine years as a frontline social worker, he dedicates his life to helping those who are where he once was. His journey is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of asking for help. Don’t miss the rest of this unbelievable story. Chapters 00:00 Struggles with Addiction and the Environment 05:53 Life on the Streets and Criminal Activity 12:01 The Drug Trade and Consequences 22:56 Struggles of Addiction and Desperation 29:00 The Turning Point: Seeking Help 34:30 A New Beginning: Embracing Recovery 42:38 Words of Wisdom: Encouragement for Others ------------------------------------------------------------ How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts To work with Peta Thompson, head over to www.petathompson.com to learn more about her 1:1 offerings, workshops and courses. And my Online Yoga & Meditation Platform "Breathe, Move, Embody" Learn about my "Liberate your Life: Break Patterns & Find Freedom!" online course here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min
  4. Episode 30. From Homeless to Homeowner with Jeremy Kelly (Part 1)

    MAR 27

    Episode 30. From Homeless to Homeowner with Jeremy Kelly (Part 1)

    Episode 30. From Homeless to Homeowner with Jeremy Kelly (Part 1). Jeremy Kelly’s story is so intense, I had to split it into two parts. In Part 1, he takes us into the brutal reality of addiction and homelessness on the streets of downtown Eastside. From heavy drug use to dangerous encounters that nearly cost him his life, Jeremy shares the harrowing details of what it took to survive. He’s looked death in the eye more times than he can count, crossed the wrong people, and hit rock bottom in ways most of us can’t even imagine. His storytelling is gripping—I felt like I was watching an entire TV series unfold in real time. Listen now to hear Jeremy’s raw, unfiltered journey. Chapters 00:00 Birth and Early Life in a Hippie Commune 05:47 Introduction to Drugs: LSD and Heroin 11:49 Experiences in Scotland and the Art World 18:07 Cocaine Adventures in Mexico 23:57 First Treatment and Downward Spiral 31:45 The Downward Spiral: Escalation of Substance Abuse 39:50 The Turning Point: A Brush with Death 48:34 Treatment and Reflection. (Part 1) ------------------------------------------------------------ How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts To work with Peta Thompson, head over to www.petathompson.com to learn more about her 1:1 offerings, workshops and courses. And my Online Yoga & Meditation Platform "Breathe, Move, Embody" Learn about my "Liberate your Life: Break Patterns & Find Freedom!" online course here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min
  5. Episode 29. Cancer, Psychedelics and Herbal Medicine with Travis Cartwright

    MAR 13

    Episode 29. Cancer, Psychedelics and Herbal Medicine with Travis Cartwright

    Episode 29. Cancer, Psychedelics and Herbal Medicine with Travis Cartwright In this episode, I chat with Travis Cartwright, a Medical Herbalist and co-founder of Althaea Herbals based in Nelson, BC. Travis grows, forages, and prepares various herbal medicines, teaches on natural health, and runs a clinical herbal practice. Guided by wisdom of nature, his practice integrates traditional herbalism with modern scientific knowledge. At 23, Travis was diagnosed with cancer. He shares his journey from feeling like an outsider in Industrial Red Deer, AB to becoming a Clinical Herbalist specializing in cancer care. He opens up about his own cancer journey, the difficult decisions he faced, the role herbal medicine and naturopathy played alongside chemotherapy, and the profound impact psychedelics had on his perspective—particularly regarding mortality. Join us for a deeply personal conversation about resilience, healing, and the wisdom of the natural world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:07 Journey into Herbalism and Business 07:15 Personal Connection to Cancer and Healing 09:54 The Role of Grief in Healing 12:44 Understanding Herbal Medicine 15:27 Ethics and Environmental Awareness in Herbalism 18:55 Childhood and Early Influences 21:31 Exploration of Psychedelics 27:38 Psychedelics and Mortality 33:29 Navigating Cancer Diagnosis 38:33 Facing the Diagnosis 40:56 Navigating Treatment Options 46:05 The Role of Community and Support 50:32 Embracing Herbal Medicine 54:08 Life Lessons from Cancer 01:00:32 Supporting Others on Their Journey 01:08:16 How Did You Do It? Learn more about Travis and Althaea Herbals below: www.althaeaherbals.com @althaeaherbals ------------------------------------------------------------ How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts To work with Peta Thompson, head over to www.petathompson.com to learn more about her 1:1 offerings, workshops and courses. And my Online Yoga & Meditation Platform "Breathe, Move, Embody" Learn about my "Liberate your Life: Break Patterns & Find Freedom!" online course here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 15m
  6. Episode 28. A Story of Love and Strength Through Life’s Fragility with Tohni Blower

    FEB 27

    Episode 28. A Story of Love and Strength Through Life’s Fragility with Tohni Blower

    Episode 28. A Story of Love and Strength Through Life’s Fragility with Tohni Blower In this powerful episode, Tohni Bower shares the story of her deep, cosmic connection with her partner, Willow. In 2021, Willow suffered a cardiac episode. One year later, tragedy struck again when a sudden cardiac arrest left her in a coma for weeks. Tohni was with Willow when it happened, along with a doctor who miraculously kept Willow alive until paramedics arrived. What followed was a time of immense uncertainty, but also profound community support. People from around the world came together, offering prayers, financial aid, meals, and rides, rallying behind Willow, Tohni, and their families. Through it all, Tohni navigated heartbreak, resilience, and the deep lessons this experience brought into her life. Join us as Tohni reflects on the challenges, the cosmic love she holds for Willow, and the ways this experience has transformed her forever. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection 02:27 The Journey of Love and Friendship 11:40 The Life-Changing Incident 25:30 The Aftermath and Support 27:44 Navigating Trauma and Spirituality 35:16 Community Support During Crisis 41:03 The Journey of Recovery 50:17 Personal Transformation Through Adversity 01:02:06 The Cosmic Connection of Love 01:04:08 Advice for Those in Similar Situations ------------------------------------------------------------ Music by Nella Banner Podcast Artwork: Design By Aether How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts To work with Peta Thompson, head over to www.petathompson.com to learn more about her 1:1 offerings, workshops and courses. And my Online Yoga & Meditation Platform "Breathe, Move, Embody" Learn about my "Liberate your Life: Break Patterns & Find Freedom!" online course here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 5m
  7. Episode 27. From PTSD to Rebirth through Somatic and Psilocybin Therapy with Mark Harringa

    FEB 13

    Episode 27. From PTSD to Rebirth through Somatic and Psilocybin Therapy with Mark Harringa

    Episode 27. From PTSD to Rebirth through Somatic and Psilocybin Therapy with Mark Harringa In this episode, Mark Harringa shares his journey of resilience after a life-altering accident. He opens up about his struggles with alcoholism, identity loss, and the emotional toll of recovery. Mark reflects on his past in the logging industry, the accident itself, and the long road to healing. He also explores the transformative power of psilocybin therapy, the pivotal moments that led him to seek help, and the importance of integration in creating lasting change. Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on a Transformative Year 03:03 The Journey of Self-Discovery 05:49 Life Before the Accident 08:59 The Day of the Accident 11:56 The Impact of the Accident 14:53 Emergency Response and Hospitalization 18:00 The Struggles in Recovery 21:07 Facing New Challenges 24:12 The Long Road to Recovery 27:02 Coping with Loss and Change 29:59 Finding Hope and Moving Forward 38:06 The Identity Crisis: Loss and Depression 42:52 The Turning Point: Seeking Help 48:32 The Journey of Self-Discovery: Books and Learning 57:36 The Psilocybin Experience: A Transformative Ceremony 01:06:47 Integration and Embodiment: Living the Change ------------------------------------------------------------ Music by Nella Banner Podcast Artwork: Design By Aether How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts To work with Peta Thompson, head over to www.petathompson.com to learn more about her 1:1 offerings, workshops and courses. And my Online Yoga & Meditation Platform "Breathe, Move, Embody" Learn about my "Liberate your Life: Break Patterns & Find Freedom!" online course here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 22m
  8. Episode 26. Turning Pain into Purpose with Jebediah Ryan

    JAN 30

    Episode 26. Turning Pain into Purpose with Jebediah Ryan

    Episode 26. Turning Pain into Purpose with Jebediah Ryan In this episode, Jebediah Ryan shares his inspiring story of overcoming methamphetamine addiction and transforming his life into something truly beautiful. Once trapped in the grips of addiction, Jebediah now dedicates his life to helping others. He’s the founder of a successful organization offering dedicated men's disability support services across Queensland & NSW, Australia. Jebediah opens up about the darkest chapters of his life, the turning points that led to his recovery, and the transformative lessons he’s learned along the way. We also dive into his passion for empowering men, his mission to provide meaningful support, and the drive behind his work with the NDIS community. Learn more about Jeb and Heart Led Support: www.heartledsupport.com @jebediah_ryan Chapters 00:00 The Joys of Parenthood 03:52 Establishing Heart Lead Foundation 06:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery 09:59 Vulnerability and Masculinity 12:52 Childhood Challenges and Resilience 15:48 Navigating Early Adulthood and Relationships 18:58 The Impact of Substance Abuse 22:04 Finding Purpose Through Adversity 38:47 The Curious Mind and Experimentation 39:39 Australia Day and First Encounter with Meth 40:30 The Dark Journey of Addiction 41:48 Turning Point: Detox and Recovery 43:05 Cultural Connections and New Beginnings 45:27 Returning to Automotive Work 46:46 Fatherhood and Family Court Struggles 49:00 Navigating Co-Parenting Challenges 51:19 Personal Growth and New Relationships 54:37 Reclaiming Power and Asking for Help 56:35 Tools for Transformation 58:01 The Role of Fatherhood 01:02:02 Personal Development and Spiritual Growth 01:06:02 Finding Balance and Purpose 01:06:58 The Hero's Journey 01:10:18 Words of Encouragement to the Past Self 01:11:28 Final Thoughts and Community Offering ------------------------------------------------------------ Music by Nella Banner Podcast Artwork: Design By Aether How can you support the show? Having a podcast is such a beautiful experience, however it is time-consuming and has its own expenses. To help support the show and keep it going by you can consider donating by using this link. Follow on instagram: @petathompsonwellness Follow on instagram: @howdyoudoitpodcast Leave a review on Apple Podcasts To work with Peta Thompson, head over to www.petathompson.com to learn more about her 1:1 offerings, workshops and courses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 15m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

For thousands of years, storytelling has been woven into the fabric of human existence, serving as a guiding light through the complexities of life as far back as the most ancient of cultures. In today’s fast-paced world, gathering around a fire to share stories is becoming a distant memory. Throughout my own journey, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know some of the most incredibly inspiring people whose stories will crack you open. Their journeys are not just tales of survival, but profound testaments to the undeniable resilience of the human spirit. Welcome to How’d You Do It: a podcast dedicated to the timeless art of storytelling, where stories of resilience come to life, igniting a spark of hope and reminding us of our innate capacity to overcome adversity and embrace the fullness of life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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