Hey Soul Sista by Melissa Histon

What if the biggest lie we tell ourselves is: “I’ll do it tomorrow”? In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, Geoff Rupp returns for a powerful conversation about why so many of us keep putting off the life we really want to live — and why the time to begin is now. Fresh from two months in India, where he led a spiritual retreat through sacred planetary temples, Geoff shares what those experiences taught him about purpose, presence, self-love and the way we move through life. We talk about why we can become trapped in the “ever-repeating known,” how fear and ego can quietly keep us playing small, and why taking even one small step toward the life you want can begin to change everything. Geoff also shares one of the most confronting lessons he has learned from speaking with people nearing the end of their lives: we think we have more time than we do. We wait until the kids are older, until we retire, until we have more money, until life settles down — but sometimes tomorrow doesn’t unfold the way we imagined. We explore: Why Geoff believes we’re here to evolve, not simply move through life on autopilot The difference between letting fear lead and trusting yourself Why meditation and breathwork can help create greater clarity How to stop looking outside yourself for happiness Why relationships should complement you rather than complete you The importance of putting yourself back on your own priority list How taking one small action now can move you toward the life you really wantAnd Geoff shares stories from his extraordinary journey through India — including sacred fire ceremonies, ancient temples and an unexpected experience involving an emerald shivlingam that had reportedly not been brought out for years. This conversation is a reminder that your life isn’t a waiting room. If there’s something you’ve been telling yourself you’ll do “one day”… maybe this is your sign to begin. ** To find out more about Geoff's upcoming retreat to India, visit his website. Podcast listeners who enter the code SISTA upon registering for the retreat receives a $500 discount!! Connect with GEOFF RUPP:  Instagram @geoff_rupp  Website: geoffrupp.com YouTube: @geoffrupp_ Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the people we love are never truly beyond our reach? When speech pathologist Stephanie Banks watched her mother disappear into dementia, she believed her professional training would help them stay connected. But as their relationship unravelled, she found herself searching for answers in the most unexpected place. One extraordinary experience changed everything. In this deeply thought-provoking conversation, Stephanie shares how that moment led her to become an intuitive channel, helping people connect with what she describes as the soul, spirit guides and a deeper wisdom that exists beyond our everyday awareness. Whether you're deeply spiritual, quietly curious or somewhere in between, this episode invites you to explore life's biggest questions with an open mind and an open heart. In this episode, we discuss: Stephanie's mother's dementia and the experience that changed her life What intuitive channeling is (and what it isn't) Can anyone learn to connect with their intuition? The difference between intuition and fear Spirit guides, soul teams and higher consciousness Why imagination may be more powerful than we've been taught Living with more joy, purpose and self-trust What Stephanie believes happens after we die If you've ever wondered whether there's more to life than what we can see, this conversation is for you. Connect with STEPHANIE BANKS: Website: https://soulinsight.com Instagram: @stephanieintuitivechannel Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6niLZqnSLAdilLmwzgWbgg?si=cfa5ec0db2154cdc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hey-soul-sista-with-mel-histon/id1479778469 Website: heysoulsista.com  Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At some point, many women wake up and wonder... How did I end up living a life that no longer feels like mine? After years of putting everyone else first, chasing success, meeting expectations and trying to be "good enough", it's easy to lose touch with the one voice that matters most – your own. In this deeply thought-provoking conversation, bestselling author, women's leadership expert and PhD researcher Megan Dalla-Camina shares why so many women stop trusting themselves, how we're conditioned to look outside ourselves for answers, and why the path back begins by remembering who we really are. Together we explore burnout, people-pleasing, intuition, meditation, feminine wisdom, spirituality and the courage it takes to create a life that's true to you. If you've ever felt restless, disconnected or like you're living someone else's version of success, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to come home to yourself. In this episode we discuss: Why so many women lose trust in themselves The hidden cost of people-pleasing and perfectionism Megan's journey from IBM executive to bestselling author How burnout became the catalyst for a completely different life What "feminine wisdom" actually means (without the jargon) Practical ways to reconnect with your intuition Why meditation doesn't have to be complicated Midlife as an awakening rather than a crisis Learning to stop living by everyone else's expectations The powerful message behind Megan's new book, She Remembers ✨ Remember: Everything you need to know is already inside you. Sometimes the greatest journey is simply remembering who you've always been.   Connect with MEGAN DALLA-CAMINA:  Website: https://megandallacamina.com/ Instagram @megandallacamina Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6niLZqnSLAdilLmwzgWbgg?si=cfa5ec0db2154cdc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hey-soul-sista-with-mel-histon/id1479778469 Website: heysoulsista.com  Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Belinda MacDougall has built one of Australia's most successful wellness businesses, helping millions of people transform their health through The Lady Shake and The Man Shake. But as you'll hear in this conversation, success wasn't the destination—it was just the beginning. In this inspiring episode, Belinda shares the mindset that helped her build an extraordinary life, why she's never been afraid to ask "Why not?", and what she's learned about purpose, generosity and staying grounded along the way. Together, we explore why success alone can't fulfil you, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, overcoming self-doubt, and why giving back has become one of the most meaningful chapters of her journey. Whether you're chasing a dream, navigating a new season of life, or wondering what truly matters, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired to think bigger—and live more intentionally. In this episode we discuss: Why success isn't the finish line The mindset behind building The Lady Shake Why Belinda has never been afraid to dream big Overcoming self-doubt and limiting beliefs The importance of purpose beyond achievement Staying humble while achieving success The power of surrounding yourself with the right people Why giving back has become Belinda's greatest passion What success can never give you—and what really matters instead Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6niLZqnSLAdilLmwzgWbgg?si=cfa5ec0db2154cdc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hey-soul-sista-with-mel-histon/id1479778469 Website: heysoulsista.com  Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered if the people we love ever really leave us? Maybe you've had a dream that felt incredibly real. A favourite song played at exactly the right moment. You caught the unmistakable scent of someone's perfume, or a bird appeared when you needed comfort most. Are these simply coincidences... or could they be signs? In this deeply moving conversation, psychic medium and psychiatric nurse Rebecca Gibson returns to Hey Soul Sista to explore one of life's greatest mysteries: whether our loved ones continue to communicate with us after they've passed. Rebecca shares her own extraordinary experiences, including her near-death experience, powerful stories of spirit communication, and why she believes our consciousness continues long after our physical bodies are gone. Together, we discuss why grief can sometimes make it harder to notice signs, how dreams, songs and synchronicities can become meaningful messages, and why slowing down may be the key to recognising them. Whether you're spiritual, sceptical or simply missing someone you love, this conversation offers comfort, hope and a beautiful reminder that love may never truly leave us. In this episode we discuss:• Do our loved ones stay with us after they die?• The most common signs people receive from loved ones• Dreams, songs, scents and synchronicities• Why grief can block us from recognising signs• Rebecca's extraordinary personal experiences• What happens when we die?• Can our loved ones hear us when we talk to them?• Practical ways to become more aware of signs around you If this episode brings you comfort, we'd love you to follow Hey Soul Sista, leave a review and share it with someone who may need to hear this conversation today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the woman everyone remembers as a beauty icon discovers that the greatest transformation isn’t how she looks — but who she becomes? In this very special episode of Hey Soul Sista, I sit down with Alison Brahe-Daddo — one of Australia’s most recognisable models and, for many women of my generation, a true teenage icon. But this conversation isn’t just about the magazine covers or the modelling years. It’s about the woman behind the image and the many chapters that have shaped her journey. Ali shares what it was like growing up in the spotlight, taking the leap to move to America, building a life and family, and navigating the identity shifts that come with different seasons of womanhood. We talk about:✨ Leaving behind one version of yourself and finding another✨ The courage it takes to reinvent yourself✨ Marriage, motherhood and growing together through life’s changes✨ Menopause as a powerful transition, not an ending✨ Her book Queen Menopause and the lessons she learned along the way✨ Creating Aviiana and why supporting women through midlife became such an important mission Ali’s story is a beautiful reminder that we are never finished becoming who we are meant to be. Whether you’re navigating menopause, a career change, an empty nest, a new chapter, or simply asking yourself “Who am I now?”, this conversation will remind you that your next chapter might just be your most powerful one yet. ✨ Follow Hey Soul Sista for more conversations about midlife, self-discovery, courage and soulful living. Connect with ALI DADDO:  Website: https://aviiana.com.au/ Ali's book 'Queen Menopause' Instagram @alidaddo Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6niLZqnSLAdilLmwzgWbgg?si=cfa5ec0db2154cdc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hey-soul-sista-with-mel-histon/id1479778469 Website: heysoulsista.com  Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever promised yourself, "This time will be different"… only to find yourself slipping back into the same habits, behaviours or patterns? Whether it's emotional eating, people-pleasing, unhealthy relationships, procrastination or simply struggling to stick with the changes you want to make, so many of us end up asking the same question: Why do I keep doing this? In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, psychologist Kaz Amos explains why lasting change is about so much more than willpower. Together, we explore what's really happening inside the brain, why we're wired to seek what's familiar, how our nervous system shapes our behaviour, and why understanding ourselves with compassion is often the key to breaking old patterns. In this conversation, we discuss: • Why we keep returning to behaviours we know aren't serving us• The difference between knowing what to do and actually being able to do it• Why your brain naturally prefers what's familiar• How neural pathways influence your habits and behaviour• The role of dopamine, stress and emotional regulation• Why shame often keeps us stuck• Practical ways to create lasting change with self-awareness and self-compassion If you've ever felt frustrated with yourself for ending up back where you started, this episode will leave you with a completely different perspective—and hopefully a little more kindness towards yourself. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow Hey Soul Sista, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian entertainer, comedian, author and broadcaster Em Rusciano joins Mel Histon to talk about her new live show, "Addicted to Love." But what unfolds is a deeply personal conversation about identity, AuDHD, self-worth, relationships, midlife, and why so many women spend their lives seeking validation before learning to choose themselves. In this honest and thought-provoking episode, Mel and Em explore the patterns that keep so many women seeking validation, approval and the feeling of being "chosen." Known for her fearless honesty and razor-sharp humour, Em shares how receiving an AuDHD diagnosis later in life helped her better understand herself, while opening the door to a much bigger conversation about identity, relationships and self-worth. Together, Mel and Em discuss why so many women lose themselves trying to meet other people's expectations, and what it really takes to reclaim your voice, your confidence and your sense of self. In this episode we explore: • Em's journey following her AuDHD diagnosis• The inspiration behind her show "Addicted to Love"• Why so many women seek validation outside themselves• People-pleasing and "good girl" conditioning• Relationships, dating and choosing yourself after heartbreak• Perimenopause, identity and midlife transformation• Learning to trust yourself and let go of perfection• Why self-worth changes everything This conversation is funny, vulnerable, insightful and filled with those moments that make you stop and think, "I've never looked at it that way before." If you've ever felt like you've spent your life trying to be enough for everyone else, this episode is for you. Connect with EM RUSCIANO:  Website: https://emrusciano.com/ Get tickets to 'Addicted to Love': https://emrusciano.com/addicted-to-love/ Em's podcast 'Emsolation' - Emsolation podcast Instagram @emrusciano Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6niLZqnSLAdilLmwzgWbgg?si=cfa5ec0db2154cdc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hey-soul-sista-with-mel-histon/id1479778469 Website: heysoulsista.com  Website: gotyourbacksista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brain fog, sudden chin hairs, mood swings, and feeling like you are losing your mind—if you are a woman over 40, it’s not just stress. It’s perimenopause. In this episode, women’s health specialist Dr Shauna Watts breaks down the wildly fluctuating hormones that cause these unexpected changes. Host, Mel Histon, and Dr Shauna dive deep into the signs doctors frequently miss, how dropping estrogen impacts your brain, and the honest, evidence-based truth about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) so you can finally get relief. If you have been feeling uncharacteristic anxiety, fatigue, or just not like yourself lately, this conversation is the validation and medical clarity you have been looking for. Topics Covered in This Episode: The "Zone of Chaos": What perimenopause actually is and when it starts. Brain Fog Explained: How dropping estrogen levels physically impact your brain health, memory, and cognition. The Hidden Symptoms: Why changing hormones lead to unexpected changes like body composition shifts and chin hairs. Demystifying Hormones and HRT: An honest, evidence-based look at the safety, side effects, and benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy. About Our Guest:Dr Shauna Watts is a respected Australian General Practitioner specializing in women's health, lifestyle medicine, and menopause management. She is passionate about empowering women with evidence-based education to navigate midlife changes with confidence and clarity. Connect with DR SHAUNA WATTS:  Website: https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/  Dr Shauna's podcast 'All About You' - https://www.allaboutyoupod.com/ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3YhnZ3pO6zaEOgFvIUo99b Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/all-about-you-with-dr-shauna-watts/id1720112408  Facebook  @YOUbyDrShaunaWattsNewcastle  Instagram @youbydrshaunawatts   Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6niLZqnSLAdilLmwzgWbgg?si=cfa5ec0db2154cdc Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/hey-soul-sista-with-mel-histon/id1479778469 Website: heysoulsista.com  Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the parts of yourself you've spent your whole life hiding are actually your greatest gifts? In this powerful episode of Hey Soul Sista, Mel Histon sits down with author, speaker and psychic medium Chezzi Denyer to explore the extraordinary story behind her new book, 'The Weird Little Girl Who Talked To Ghosts'. As a child, Chezzi experienced what she describes as communication with spirits and a deep connection to the unseen world. But after years of feeling different, being labelled "weird" and trying to fit in, she gradually shut that part of herself down. It wasn't until a profound period of grief, loss and personal transformation that those experiences began to return—leading her on a journey that would change her life forever. Together, Mel and Chezzi explore: • Growing up feeling different and learning to hide who you are• The impact of childhood experiences and being labelled "weird"• Why so many women dim their light to fit in• Grief, loss and spiritual awakening• Intuition, signs and synchronicities• Messages from loved ones who have passed• Motherhood, self-doubt and learning to trust yourself• Whether we all have intuitive abilities• How to reconnect with your inner knowing• The inspiration behind The Weird Little Girl Who Talked To Ghosts Whether you're curious about mediumship, fascinated by spirituality, navigating grief, or simply trying to reconnect with your authentic self, this conversation offers comfort, insight and hope. Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com  Connect with CHEZZI DENYER: Website: https://chezzidenyer.com.au/ Chezzi's book - The Weird Little Girl That Talked To Ghosts Facebook @thechezzidiaries Instagram @chezzidenyer If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with a soul sister who needs to hear it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After spending seven days in a coma with a rare and life-threatening form of bacterial meningitis, renowned neurosurgeon Dr Eben Alexander says he experienced a reality beyond this world—one that challenged everything he thought he knew about life, death and consciousness. Before his near-death experience, Dr Eben was a respected brain surgeon who believed consciousness was created entirely by the brain. But what happened during those seven days would completely transform his understanding of reality and lead him to write the international bestseller Proof of Heaven. In this profound and thought-provoking conversation, host - Mel Histon - and Dr Eben explore some of humanity's biggest questions: ✨ What happens when we die?✨ Does consciousness survive beyond the physical body?✨ Can we reconnect with loved ones after death?✨ What is a life review?✨ Why are so many people reporting near-death experiences?✨ Is there a deeper purpose behind suffering and grief?✨ What role does love play in the journey of the soul? Dr Eben also shares the extraordinary story of meeting a woman during his near-death experience who would later be revealed to be his biological sister—someone he had never met in this lifetime. Whether you're curious, skeptical, grieving someone you love, or simply searching for deeper meaning, this conversation offers a fascinating exploration of life, death and the possibility that we are far more than our physical bodies. One message sits at the heart of Dr Eben's story: "You are deeply loved and cherished forever." If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your support helps us continue bringing these powerful conversations to more women around the world. Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com Connect with DR EBEN ALEXANDER: Website: https://ebenalexander.com/ For Binaural Beats and Meditations - https://www.sacredacoustics.com/ Dr Eben's books - Proof of Heaven, Living in a Mindful Universe, The Map of Heaven Instagram @ebenalex3md See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if healing isn't about becoming someone new, but remembering who you've always been? In this deeply soulful and thought-provoking conversation, Melissa sits down with psychotherapist, trauma therapist and author Naomi Sirio to explore the connection between healing, spirituality and the journey back to self. Drawing on more than two decades of therapeutic practice and the insights from her new book Souljourn, Naomi shares why so many of us feel disconnected, how childhood experiences continue to shape our adult lives, and what it really means to do the inner work. Together they explore attachment styles, trauma, grief, relationships, self-sabotage, journaling, meditation and the parts of ourselves we leave behind along the way. They also dive into the spiritual side of healing, discussing signs from loved ones who have passed, intuition, soul connection and the possibility that there is more to life than what we can see. This is a conversation about slowing down, listening inwardly, and finding your way home to yourself. In this episode, we discuss: • The meaning behind Naomi's book Souljourn• Why healing is a lifelong journey• Attachment styles and how they shape our relationships• Childhood trauma and the impact of emotional attunement• Why we repeat patterns and self-sabotage• The power of journaling and self-reflection• Meditation, somatic healing and reconnecting with the body• Signs from spirit and connection with loved ones who have passed• Finding meaning, purpose and connection in everyday life• The journey back to your authentic self If you've ever felt lost, disconnected, or curious about the deeper meaning behind your experiences, this episode offers gentle wisdom, hope and practical insights for your own soul journey. Connect with NAOMI SIRIO: Instagram @souljourn_with_naomi Website: https://www.souljourn.com.au Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you ever feel like life has become one long to-do list? In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, host, Mel Histon, sits down with organisation expert, podcast host and founder of Beautifully Organised, Marissa Roberts, for a heartfelt conversation about simplifying life, creating space for yourself and learning to nurture your own wellbeing. Together they explore why so many women struggle to switch off, the pressure of trying to do it all, and how small changes can create more calm, ease and joy in everyday life. Marissa shares practical tips for reducing overwhelm, setting healthy boundaries, saying no without guilt, creating simple self-care rituals and letting go of perfectionism. The conversation also takes some fun and unexpected turns as Marissa shares her experiences working as an extra in movies and television shows, including a memorable moment involving Ryan Gosling! In this episode, we discuss: • Why so many women feel constantly overwhelmed• The mental load and invisible pressures women carry• How organisation can create more peace and freedom• Practical ways to simplify daily life• Learning to say no without guilt• People pleasing, boundaries and protecting your energy• Creating self-care rituals that actually fit into real life• The benefits of solo travel and making time for yourself• Letting go of perfectionism• Finding more joy, calm and balance in everyday life If you've been craving a softer, simpler way of living, this episode is a beautiful reminder that you don't need to do more—you may simply need to make space for what matters most. Connect with Marissa Roberts:Beautifully OrganisedThe Simpler Business Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with a woman in your life who could use a little more peace, simplicity and self-care. ** Hey Soul Sista listeners can have FREE access to Marissa’s course The Busy Mum’s Guide to Making Life Easier: https://marissaroberts.thrivecart.com/bmgtmle/?coupon=HEYSOULSISTA ** Hey Soul Sista listeners can have FREE access to Marissa’s Business Boundaries toolkit: https://www.marissaroberts.com/business-boundaries/  Connect with MARISSA ROBERTS:  Instagram @marissarobertsofficial The Simpler Business Podcast https://www.marissaroberts.com/podcast/ Website: https://www.beautifullyorganised.com/ Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista  Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com - Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From foster care and homelessness to becoming a powerful advocate for vulnerable young people — this is an unforgettable conversation about resilience, healing, and turning pain into purpose. In this deeply moving episode of Hey Soul Sista, host Mel Histon, sits down with physiotherapist, youth advocate, and ultramarathon runner Natalia Hogan to talk about the childhood trauma that shaped her life — including experiences of foster care, homelessness, domestic violence, instability, and growing up without safety or security. Natalia shares what it was really like navigating childhood in survival mode, couch surfing as a teenager, living in youth accommodation at just 15 years old, and carrying the hidden shame of feeling “different” while trying to appear normal at school. But this episode is also about hope. Natalia opens up about the inner work and healing that helped her rebuild her life, the powerful role exercise and endurance played in her recovery, and the extraordinary 175km ultramarathon she completed to raise awareness and funds for youth homelessness services. Together, Mel and Natalia explore: Childhood trauma and survival Foster care and youth homelessness Healing the inner child Therapy, resilience, and emotional healing The connection between trauma and endurance Learning to feel worthy of love and support Running 175km for change Turning adversity into purpose This is a raw, emotional, and inspiring conversation that shines a light on what so many young people experience behind closed doors — and the incredible strength it can take to rewrite your story. Connect with Natalia: Instagram: @natalia.s.hogan Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com If this episode resonated with you, please share it, subscribe, and leave a review to help more people discover Hey Soul Sista.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do we keep attracting the same relationships… repeating the same patterns… and choosing what feels familiar, even when it hurts? In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, I sit down with Amy Nobile Messing to explore the hidden patterns that shape how we love, choose, and connect in modern life. We go far beyond dating and relationships into the deeper layers of human behaviour—why we repeat the same patterns, how our subconscious and emotional wounds influence who we’re drawn to, and what it really means to create conscious, aligned connection. Amy shares her powerful insight that “you can only meet someone as deeply as you’ve met yourself” and unpacks what that looks like in real life—from dating apps and modern love confusion, to emotional availability, intuition, and the shift from choosing from wounds to choosing from worth. We also explore: Why so many people feel stuck in repeating relationship patterns The impact of modern dating culture and social media on connection The difference between chemistry and emotional alignment How to recognise your own unconscious patterns in love and life The role of self-awareness, energy, and intuition in relationships Why inner work changes everything about how we show up in love This conversation is for anyone who has ever wondered why they keep ending up in the same situations—whether in relationships, friendships, or life choices—and is ready to understand themselves on a deeper level. If this episode resonates, please subscribe, share it with a friend who needs to hear it, and leave a review—it helps more women find these conversations. Connect with AMY NOBILE MESSING:  Instagram @love.amy.nyc  Website: loveamy.co  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista  Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever had that gut feeling… that quiet inner knowing… that whisper telling you something needs to change—but you ignored it? What if that wasn’t “just a feeling”… what if it was your soul trying to get your attention? In this deeply powerful episode of Hey Soul Sista, I sit down with breathwork facilitator, counsellor, educator and soulful guide Nicola Unite for a profound conversation about intuition, spiritual awakening, soul purpose, breathwork, meditation, ego, alignment, synchronicity, and what it truly means to come home to yourself. After experiencing my own transformational healing journey through conscious connected breathwork with Nicola, I knew I needed to share her wisdom with you. Together we explore: ✨ What your soul actually is—and why so many of us feel disconnected from it✨ How to trust your intuition and recognise the signs your inner wisdom is speaking✨ The difference between ego, fear, and your higher self✨ Why so many women experience a spiritual awakening in midlife✨ How breathwork, meditation, and stillness can reconnect you to your authentic self✨ Understanding synchronicities, angel numbers, and intuitive nudges✨ How to stop spiralling in fear-based stories and come back into alignment✨ Why perimenopause, burnout, and major life transitions can be a sacred rite of passage✨ How to listen when your soul is calling you toward something bigger If you’ve been feeling burnt out, disconnected, stuck, overwhelmed… or quietly hearing the whisper that there’s more for you—this conversation is for you. Your intuition is not random.Your inner knowing is not “woo woo.”And your soul may already know the next step. The question is… are you listening? Connect with Nicola: Website: nicolaunite.com https://www.instagram.com/the.unite.space/ Connect with Mel & Hey Soul Sista: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! https://www.instagram.com/heysoulsistapodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/melissahiston/ Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What really happens in the final moments of life? In this moving episode of Hey Soul Sista, Mel sits down with death doula, plant medicine practitioner and spiritual guide, Kat Courtney, to explore what she has witnessed after sitting with people as they transition from life to death. Kat shares extraordinary insights from more than two decades working with dying patients, near-death experiences, spirit communication, and plant medicine journeys including ayahuasca. Together, we explore: What people see in their final moments Whether loved ones really appear before death What it feels like to leave the body How plant medicine reveals the nature of the soul The experience of ayahuasca rituals Why death may not be an ending, but a transition This conversation is not about fear—it’s about meaning, presence, and what it really means to live fully while we are here. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when we die, or felt a connection to something beyond this life, this episode will stay with you. Connect with KAT COURTNEY:  Instagram @plantmedicinepeople Website: plantmedicinepeople.com  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @PlantMedicinePeople Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A tragic event in our hometown of Newcastle has sparked a much bigger conversation about the world we are living in. In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, host, Mel Histon, is joined by writer and social commentator Alex Morris to explore one of the most complex questions of our time: Are we becoming safer… or slowly giving away our freedom? After the devastating loss of a young man on Beaumont Street, calls for increased CCTV surveillance have divided the community — raising deeper questions about safety, control, and how societies respond to fear. Together, Alex and Mel explore: The emotional impact of violence in close-knit communities Why fear often drives calls for more surveillance and control Whether CCTV actually prevents crime or simply records it The “slippery slope” between protection and overreach How technology is reshaping privacy and human behaviour What books like Nineteen Eighty-Four reveal about surveillance, power, and control And whether it’s possible to build a society based on trust rather than fear This is not a black-and-white conversation. It’s a human one. A reflection on how we respond to tragedy, how fear shapes policy, and what it really means to feel free in today’s world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the life you’ve built over decades begins to fall apart? In this deeply moving episode of Hey Soul Sista, I sit down with acclaimed author and journalist Karina Machado — the writer behind the beloved books Spirit Sisters, Where Spirits Dwell, and Love Never Dies. For years, Karina has dedicated her work to exploring extraordinary real-life stories of spiritual experiences, intuition, and connection beyond the physical world. But in midlife, she found herself living her own. After the gradual end of her 27-year marriage, Karina entered what she describes as a profound tarot “Tower moment” — a time of loss, identity unraveling, and deep emotional transformation. And then something began to shift. Not in an overnight, dramatic way… but through subtle experiences of meaning, synchronicity, and life feeling strangely alive with messages and guidance. In this conversation, Karina shares: The emotional reality of her marriage ending after 27 years What it feels like when your identity begins to dissolve in midlife How creativity and writing became a lifeline through grief and change The synchronicities and meaningful experiences that began to emerge Why she believes midlife is not a crisis — but a powerful threshold of awakening The inspiration behind her app Reconnect & Create And how women can begin to reconnect with their inner voice, creativity, and truth We also explore powerful themes of spiritual experience, intuition, and the invisible threads that seem to guide us through life’s most uncertain moments. Karina’s perspective is both grounded and deeply expansive — shaped by decades of storytelling, journalism, and listening to others share their most intimate encounters with the unseen. This is an episode about endings… but also what becomes possible when we allow something new to emerge. ✨ If this episode resonates with you, share it with a woman who may be navigating change, grief, or a midlife awakening. 💛 Follow Hey Soul Sista for more conversations on healing, intuition, spirituality, and soulful living. Connect with Karina Machado:  App Reconnect & Create App Podcast Spirit Sisters Podcast Watch the Spirit Sisters Podcast on YouTube Connect with me on Substack Connect with me on Instagram Connect with me on Facebook Connect with Mel Histon: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Follow Hey Soul Sista on Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcast Follow Mel on Instagram: @melissahiston  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista  Website: heysoulsista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After sharing Melissa Demery’s deeply moving story, two weeks ago, something unexpected happened… Hundreds of you reached out — sharing your own experiences of loss, connection, and moments that felt impossible to explain. Stories of sensing your loved ones, dreaming of them, feeling their presence… and knowing, somehow, they were still with you. In this follow-up episode, I sit down with psychic medium and psychiatric nurse Rebecca Gibson to explore the question we all ask at some point: What actually happens when we die? This is not about proving one truth — it’s about opening a conversation. Together, we explore: The difference between the body and the “soul” What happens in the moments around death Why so many people experience signs from loved ones Dreams, sensations, and unexplainable connections Different spiritual and religious perspectives on the afterlife The role of belief, scepticism, and grief And ultimately… what this means for how we live This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered:“Are they still with me?” And for those who have felt it… and just needed to know they’re not alone. Books Mentioned in This Episode: Many Lives, Many Masters – Dr. Brian Weiss Proof of Heaven – Dr. Eben Alexander Angels in My Hair – Lorna Byrne Where Spirits Dwell – Karina Machado Connect with Mel Histon: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!   Follow Hey Soul Sista on Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcast  Follow Mel on Instagram: @melissahiston  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista  Website: heysoulsista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the people we love never really leave? In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Hey Soul Sista, Mel Histon sits down with psychic medium Barbra Banner to explore what really happens after we die — and how those on the other side may still be guiding, protecting, and communicating with us. Barbra shares how her psychic abilities awakened later in life through a series of unexplainable experiences… from lights flickering to spirit encounters in her own home. What started as curiosity quickly became a calling. Together, they dive into: What happens to the soul after death Signs your loved ones are still around you How spirit communicates (and what we often miss) The truth about soul contracts and past lives Why we choose our life experiences — even the painful ones How to reconnect with your intuition and inner knowing Mel also opens up about her own personal experience with a loved one visiting her after death — a moment that completely shifted her perspective on the spirit world. Connect with Barbra: Website: bannermedium.com Connect with Mel Histon: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Follow Hey Soul Sista on Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcast  Follow Mel on Instagram: @melissahiston  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista  Website: heysoulsista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is one of the most tender and powerful conversations I've ever shared on Hey Soul Sista. My childhood friend, Melissa Demery, is a mother, dietician, and the heart behind the charity Charlie’s Run for Kids — but before anything else, she is Charlie Carr’s mum. Charlie was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at just eight months old and spent her entire life courageously battling cancer. She passed away at eight years old. In this episode, Mel shares: The moment she was told her baby had stage 4 cancer What it’s like to live through multiple relapses The reality of palliative care as a mother The impact of grief on relationships and identity The heartbreaking conversation telling her son his sister would die The moment Charlie took her final breath in her arms All she has learned about love, acceptance and living your best life with joy! She also shares a profound experience after Charlie’s passing that completely changed her understanding of life, death, and the soul. This is a conversation about grief…But also about courage, motherhood, legacy, and choosing to live fully — even after unimaginable loss. Connect with Charlie's Run for Kids: Instagram: charliesrun4kids Website: https://www.charliesr4k.com/ Connect with Mel Histon:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Follow Hey Soul Sista on Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcast Follow Mel on Instagram: @melissahiston Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all say it: “I was so triggered.”But what’s actually happening in our brain, body, and nervous system when that wave hits? In this deeply honest and practical conversation, host Mel Histon, sits down with psychologist Kaz Amos to unpack the science and the soul of emotional triggers — why they happen, where they come from, and how we can finally heal them. Mel shares powerful personal stories — from family conflict to cancer surgeries — revealing how past experiences can live quietly in the body for years before suddenly resurfacing. Kaz brings clarity and compassion, explaining the psychology behind reactivity, trauma, nervous system responses, and why our reactions often make sense when we understand our history. You’ll learn: • What a trigger really is (and why it’s not “being dramatic”)• The difference between reacting and responding• How childhood and family experiences shape our emotional wiring• Why small moments can feel overwhelming• The surprising ways trauma lives in the body• Practical tools to calm yourself in the moment• How Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps reframe thoughts• What EMDR therapy is and how it helps heal trauma• A simple SOS technique to regulate your nervous system fast• Whether true emotional healing is possible You are not broken. Your nervous system is trying to protect you.And healing is possible. 🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward responding — not reacting. Connect with Kaz: Follow Kaz on Instagram: kaz.amos Website: kazamos.com.au  Through the Hummingbird Centre for psychology sessions, workshops, and speaking engagements. Hummingbird Centre Connect with Mel: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Follow Hey Soul Sista on Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcast Follow Mel on Instagram: @melissahiston Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this empowering episode, host Mel Histon and her guests, dive into why so many women hold back their voices—and why fear of judgment shouldn’t stop you from speaking up. Join Mel, Jamie Abbott and Alex Morris to explore: Real stories of courage, authenticity, and speaking your truth How societal pressures and “middle-age judgment” impact women Practical advice for overcoming fear and embracing your confidence Inspiring examples of women reclaiming their voices—regardless of age or background Whether it’s speaking on stage, sharing your story online, or standing up in everyday life, this episode is your reminder: you’ll always be judged, so why not speak your truth anyway? Listen in to feel empowered, inspired, and ready to show up as your boldest self. Connect with JAIMIE ABBOTT:  Follow Jaimie on Instagram: @jaimieabbott www.jaimieabbott.com.au Listen Jaimie's podcast: Pitch Perfect with Jaimie Abbott Connect with ALEX MORRIS: Instagram @alexmorriswrite Substack: alexmorriswrite.substack.com Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Hey Soul Sista, Mel Histon sits down with domestic violence advocate Tabitha Acret. In 2022, Tabitha’s daughter Mackenzie Anderson was brutally murdered by her former partner in an act of domestic violence. Mackenzie was just 21 years old. In the aftermath of unimaginable grief, Tabitha has turned her pain into purpose — becoming a powerful voice calling for stronger protections for women and children and reform within the justice system. In this raw and courageous conversation, Tabitha shares: • Who Mackenzie was as a person• The devastating moment her world changed forever• Navigating the justice system after Mackenzie’s murder• The sentencing of Mackenzie’s killer• How grief transformed into advocacy• Why she is fighting to change the system for other families This episode was recorded during the week of International Women’s Day and serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing fight to end violence against women. Mackenzie’s story matters. And Tabitha’s voice is helping drive change. ⚠️ Content warning: This episode discusses domestic violence and homicide. Please take care while listening.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Shelton Wilder — a powerhouse Los Angeles real estate agent, founder of Wilder Women Networking, and the fearless leader of a thriving all-female team. She’s a mum of two boys, proudly sober for over 15 years, and someone who has completely rebuilt her life from the ground up. From launching a clothing line and appearing on Shark Tank to hitting rock bottom with bankruptcy and rehab, Shelton’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. She turned every setback into a stepping stone, pivoted into real estate, and became one of LA’s most successful agents — all while supporting women in business and helping communities rebuild after devastating fires. In this episode, Shelton shares: How she turned failure and loss into fuel for success Lessons from building an all-female real estate team Her vision for the Pacific Palisades’ recovery and future The power of sobriety, resilience, and reinvention This is a story of courage, reinvention, and rising stronger than ever — a must-listen for anyone chasing dreams, overcoming setbacks, or building their own empire. Connect with SHELTON WILDER: Instagram @sheltonwilderestates Website: sheltonwilder.com Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the title goes away? Who are you when the spotlight shifts? In this deeply honest episode of Hey Soul Sista, host Mel Histon, sits down with Nuatali Nelmes, who served ten years as Lord Mayor of Newcastle, to explore leadership, resilience, and identity beyond public office. Nuatali shares what it was like leading a city through intense pressure and public scrutiny while raising three children and navigating the constant expectations placed on women in power. She speaks candidly about public criticism, confidence, backing yourself when the noise gets loud, and what it means to stand firm in your values. But this conversation is about more than politics — it’s about breaking the mould. It’s about:• Reinvention after a major life chapter• Courage in the face of scrutiny• Balancing motherhood and ambition• Trusting your instincts• Leading without apology• Stepping into life on your own terms This episode is for women who are redefining success, questioning expectations, and choosing authenticity over approval. If you’re navigating change, reclaiming your identity, or stepping into your own power — this conversation will resonate deeply. Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston  Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista - Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So many women reach midlife and feel like their bodies have suddenly changed the rules. You’re eating the same. Moving the same. Doing what always worked — and yet the weight won’t shift. Or it comes back faster than ever. And too often, the message women receive is that they simply aren’t trying hard enough. In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, host Mel Histon, sits down with bariatric surgeons Dr Martin McLeod and Dr Mark Gately from Sea Change Clinic for a compassionate, honest, and myth-busting conversation about weight, health, and wellbeing in midlife. Together we explore the biological, hormonal, emotional, and societal factors that shape women’s weight — and unpack why this is about far more than willpower or discipline. This episode isn’t about shame or quick fixes.It’s about understanding, empowerment, and informed choice. In this conversation we explore: Why weight gain often happens in midlife The role hormones, sleep, stress, and muscle loss play How chronic stress and emotional load impact metabolism Why shame and stigma make weight challenges harder The shift from viewing obesity as willpower to chronic health condition The truth behind common weight loss myths Understanding “set point” and weight regain Evidence-based support options including: Lifestyle approaches Medical support GLP-1 medications Bariatric surgery When additional support might be appropriate — and why that isn’t failure What sustainable success actually looks like Compassionate reframing for women navigating body changes As always on Hey Soul Sista, this conversation centres women’s lived experiences, wellbeing, and agency — because your body is not a problem to fix. It’s something to understand, support, and care for. Connect with DR MARK AND DR MARTIN:  Instagram: @seachangeweightlossclinic Facebook: facebook.com/seachangeclinic Website: seachange.com.au Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take for a 19-year-old to take over her family ranch, navigate grief, and find purpose in a disconnected world? In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, Mel Histon sits down with Cloe Parker — rancher, owner of Parker Pastures, and author of Connected Cowgirl. Cloe shares her journey from a young woman thrust into responsibility after her mother became ill, to building a thriving farm business grounded in ethical, nutrient-dense food, faith, and connection. Mel and Cloe talk about the lessons she’s learned about mental health, the connection crisis we’re all facing, and how returning to the land, animals, and real food can transform our lives. Whether you’re curious about regenerative farming, the power of connection, or how faith and purpose can guide you through life’s toughest moments, this conversation is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Cloe took over her family ranch at 19 and the lessons she learned about responsibility, faith, and resilience. The importance of connection — to the land, animals, food, and each other — in a world that’s more disconnected than ever. How nutrient-dense, ethically-raised meat can support health and well-being. Practical ways to find presence and grounding in daily life. The story behind Cloe’s book, Connected Cowgirl, and the life-changing moment that set her on this path. Resources & Links: Connect with CLOE PARKER: - Cloe Parker on Instagram: @ParkerPasturesGrassFed - Connected Cowgirl on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Connected-Cowgirl-Field-Dinner-Journey/dp/B0F3WG9CHY Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! - Instagram @melissahiston - Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast - Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista - Website: heysoulsista.com Trigger Warning: This episode discusses grief, mental health, and moments of suicidal thoughts. Please take care of yourself while listening, and reach out for support if needed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling stuck? Even when everything looks “fine” on the outside? You’re not alone. Many women are outwardly successful but inwardly trapped in old stories, patterns, and beliefs that silently hold them back.  In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, I’m talking with Suzy Jacobs, coach, speaker, and founder of Bold Mind Moves, about how to uncover the stories we inherit, identify the patterns keeping us stuck, and shift your perspective so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and freedom. Suzy explores the themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the impact of stories on decision-making. She shares her journey from feeling stuck to finding a system for life that aligns with her values and authenticity. We dive into: How the stories we tell ourselves shape our choices Why clarity matters more than comfort or security Practical tools to uncover the unseen patterns holding you back How to align your actions with your boldest, clearest self If you’re ready to get unstuck, trust yourself, and create the life you want, this episode is for you. Listen, take notes, and start shifting your story today!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many women grow up believing it’s their job to keep everyone else happy — to be the good girl, the peacekeeper, the one who doesn’t rock the boat. But what if that belief is the very thing keeping you exhausted, resentful, and disconnected from yourself? In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, host, Mel Histon, is joined by psychologist Kaz Amos for a deep, compassionate conversation about people pleasing — where it comes from, why it’s so hard to stop, and how it quietly shapes our confidence, self-worth, and relationships. Together, we explore how people pleasing isn’t a personality flaw, but often a learned survival response — rooted in attachment, trauma, conditioning, and hypervigilance. We talk about the good girl conditioning so many women carry into adulthood, why saying no can feel unbearable, and what it really means to stop taking responsibility for other people’s emotions. This is a powerful conversation for anyone who: Feels responsible for other people’s moods or reactions Struggles with guilt when saying no Notices resentment building after always putting others first Is ready to let go of the good girl role — especially in midlife Wants to live more authentically, with stronger boundaries and self-trust In this episode, we cover: What people pleasing really is (and what it’s not) The psychology behind people pleasing and fawning How trauma and hypervigilance shape our behaviour Why people pleasing feels “safe” — but keeps us stuck The hidden impact on confidence, self-worth, and identity Midlife as an invitation to stop pleasing and start choosing yourself Practical ways to recognise people pleasing patterns and gently shift them What it means to live authentically — without guilt or shame If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “I’m not responsible for your happiness” — but still feeling like you are — this episode is for you. Connect with KAZ AMOS:  Instagram: /kaz.amos kazamos.com.au  Book through the Hummingbird Centre for psychology sessions, workshops, and speaking engagements.  Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What becomes possible when you start trusting your intuition, your inner guidance? In this powerful episode, Australia’s most sought-after psychic medium Jackie Gillies shares with host, Mel Histon, how intuition, healing, and soul-led transformation can change your life. Many of you will recognise Jackie from The Real Housewives of Melbourne and The Amazing Race, but this conversation goes far beyond television. Mel and Jackie explore what it truly means to trust your intuition, step into your power, and evolve — even when the world is watching. Jackie opens up about her psychic awakening, how she learned to own her intuitive gifts publicly, and the courage it takes to live in alignment with your soul. They also dive into her transformative work through TransformU, where she supports women to heal, reconnect with their inner guidance, and create meaningful change in their lives. This episode is for any woman who feels called to grow, to heal, and to trust herself more deeply — even if it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar. ✨ In this episode, we explore: Jackie’s journey as a psychic medium and intuitive guide Trusting your intuition and learning to listen to inner guidance Spiritual awakening and soul-led transformation Healing, energy, and personal evolution The intention and impact behind Jackie’s TransformU work Stepping into your power while living life in the public eye Take a breath, settle in, and enjoy this heartfelt conversation with the beautiful Jackie Gillies. Connect with JACKIE GILLIES: https://www.instagram.com/jackiegilliestv/ https://www.instagram.com/transform_u_/ www xojackie.com www.jackiegillies.com Connect with MEL HISTON:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! https://www.instagram.com/melissahiston/ https://www.instagram.com/heysoulsistapodcast/ Watch the podcast video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heysoulsista heysoulsista.com https://www.gotyourbacksista.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bondi shootings shocked the nation, but they are part of a bigger story: the rise of extremism in Australia and globally. In this episode, host Mel Histon, and guest, Dr Jen Robinson, explore the Bondi shootings and what they reveal about fear, polarisation, and the pathways to extremism — from political ideology to online radicalisation. Dr. Jen shares insights into how young people are being influenced and what families and communities can do to prevent it. From the National Socialist Network in Melbourne to extremist online communities, this conversation dives deep into the world of radicalisation — how it starts, how it spreads, and how ordinary people can protect themselves and those they love. Mel and Dr Jen also explore the rise of polarisation in Australia and the US, and practical ways to foster open dialogue and understanding. Content warning: This episode discusses real acts of violence, including the Bondi shootings, extremist ideology, and online radicalisation. Listener discretion is advised. Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista!  Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply grounding and inspiring conversation, Hey Soul Sista host, Mel Histon, is joined by Geoff Rupp, a Vedic meditation teacher, Vedic astrologer, and founder of Find Your Calm, to explore what happens when life forces you to stop—and listen. After being diagnosed with cancer and later made redundant from a high-pressure television career, Geoff found himself at a profound crossroads. What followed was a journey inward—through Vedic meditation, Himalayan breathwork, mindfulness, and ancient wisdom traditions—that completely reshaped the way he understood stress, purpose, and personal transformation. Together, Mel and Geoff explore how meditation and breathwork can support us through life’s most challenging seasons, why Vedic astrology offers powerful insight into our true nature and life path, and how consistent spiritual practice helps us live with more clarity, calm, and alignment. This episode is an honest conversation about self-discovery, healing, and awakening, and why so many people are feeling called to slow down, shed old identities, and reconnect with what truly matters. Whether you’re navigating stress, change, or a deeper spiritual calling, this conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and practical wisdom for finding calm when life feels like it’s falling apart. Book mentioned in this episode: 'Letting Go' by David Hawkins Connect with GEOFF RUPP:  Instagram @geoff_rupp  Website: geoffrupp.com YouTube: @geoffrupp_ Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you grow — and not everyone claps? A raw, honest conversation about growth, jealousy, friendship, and becoming yourself. In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, host Mel Histon, is joined by Jaimie Abbott and Alex Morris to reflect on the past year — the wins, the wounds, and the lessons learned from their experiences and that come with becoming yourself. Together, they explore the twists and turns of personal growth, the quiet realities of jealousy, frenemies and how friendships and relationships can shift when you stop shrinking and start stepping fully into who you are. This episode moves between light-hearted moments and deeper reflections, touching on visibility, self-trust, and the courage it takes to keep going — even when support isn’t guaranteed. As year ends, along with the transformative energy of the Year of the Snake — this conversation invites you to consider what you’re shedding, what you’re carrying forward, and how to honour your own evolution without apology, as we step into a new year. Mel, Jaimie and Alex share insights on navigating relationships, the lessons learned from their experiences, and their aspirations for the upcoming year of 2026. They emphasize the significance of being true to oneself and the power of genuine connections, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and growth. If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, unsupported, or unsure as you’ve grown into your next chapter, this episode will meet you right where you are. Connect with Jaimie: Follow Jaimie on Instagram: @jaimieabbott www.jaimieabbott.com.au Listen Jaimie's podcast: Pitch Perfect with Jaimie Abbott Connect with Alex Morris:  Instagram @alexmorriswrite Substack: alexmorriswrite.substack.com Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com              See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when we don’t set boundaries?Burnout. Resentment. Emotional exhaustion. Disconnection from self. In this powerful and practical episode of Hey Soul Sista, host Mel Histon is joined by psychologist Dr. Rickie Elliott to explore why personal boundaries are essential for mental health, emotional wellbeing, and healthy relationships — and why so many women struggle to set them. Together, Mel and Dr Rickie unpack the deep conditioning that teaches women to prioritise others at their own expense, the link between people-pleasing and resentment, and how boundaries are not about pushing people away — but about protecting your energy, self-respect, and long-term wellbeing. This episode offers compassionate insights and practical tools you can start using immediately to create clearer, healthier limits in both your personal and professional life. In this episode, we explore: What personal boundaries really are — and why they matter Why women often feel guilty saying no How poor boundaries impact mental health and relationships The connection between self-love, self-respect, and boundary setting How to communicate boundaries clearly and kindly Creating space between a request and your response Visualising and naming your limits Why boundaries are an act of love, not rejection Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the answers you’ve been searching for have been inside you all along — and you just need to learn to hear them? In this soulful episode of Hey Soul Sista, Mel Histon sits down with bestselling author, intuitive guide, and cacao ceremony facilitator Hollie Azzopardi. Hollie shares her transformative journey from corporate life to becoming a psychic and spiritual mentor, revealing the experiences and challenges that shaped her path. Together, Melissa and Hollie explore: Maintaining spiritual hygiene is essential when exploring psychic abilities How to trust your intuition and reconnect with your inner wisdom The power and purpose of cacao ceremonies in spiritual awakening The journey from people pleasing to self-love and personal empowerment Practical guidance for women navigating spiritual growth, rituals, and holistic health If you’ve ever felt disconnected from yourself, unsure of your intuition, or ready to embrace your own spiritual awakening, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with Hollie: Hollie Azzopardi: hollieazzopardi.com Instagram: @hollieazzopardi Connect with Mel: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com Call-to-Action:💛 If you loved this episode, leave a review, share with a friend, and subscribe for more soulful conversations.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the world you love becomes the place that breaks you? In this deeply personal and powerful episode, host, Mel Histon, sits down with her sister, Kate Histon, to uncover a truth that has stayed hidden in the shadows of the dance world for far too long. From the outside, ballet looks beautiful—poised, elegant, disciplined.But behind the curtain?For so many dancers, the reality is far darker. Kate bravely shares: The silent culture of abuse, control and perfectionism inside the ballet world How young girls are conditioned to ignore pain, override their bodies and please authority The lasting emotional and physical trauma that shaped her adult life What finally forced her to confront the truth she had been carrying for decades And the powerful healing journey she has been on ever since This is more than a story about ballet—it’s a story about reclaiming your voice, unlearning the harm you normalised as a girl, and finding your way back to your true self. Whether you’ve danced, parent a dancer, or have ever abandoned your own needs to fit in or be “good,” this episode will crack something open in you. It’s raw.It’s honest.And it’s one of the most important conversations we’ve ever had. Listen now to hear how Kate broke free from the system that shaped her—and how she finally started to heal. Connect with KATE HISTON:  Instagram @kate_histon Instagram: @dance_real_podcast Instagram: @master_dancer_mindset  Website: www.katehiston.com Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So many of us struggle with intimacy and sexual satisfaction — often because we don’t fully understand our bodies or how pleasure really works. In this eye-opening and deeply empowering conversation, host Mel Histon, sits down with leading sex therapist, Gabrielle Lawrie, to dive into the most common misconceptions about sex, intimacy, and connection — and why so many people struggle without ever seeking support. Gabrielle breaks down the science of arousal, and why so many people struggle with sexual satisfaction—not because anything is “wrong” with them, but because they were never given proper sexual education in the first place. We explore the physical and psychological aspects of sexual health, unpack the myths that cause frustration in the bedroom, and share practical insights couples can use to deepen intimacy, improve communication, and truly understand each other’s needs. Whether you’re in a relationship, single, curious, or on your own journey of self-discovery, this episode will help you reconnect to your body, your pleasure, and your power. Connect with GABRIELLE LAWRIE:  Instagram @thrivewellnesshub  Substack: thrivewellnesshub.com  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Connect with MEL HISTON: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A deep political and emotional divide is shaping the way women in America see their country, their safety, and their future — with left-leaning and right-leaning women often living in what feel like completely different realities. In this timely and eye-opening episode, host Mel Histon, sits down with journalist and cultural commentator Alex Morris, who has just returned from the United States — and what she witnessed there speaks volumes about the state of women, politics, and public sentiment in America today. From small Kentucky towns to national conversations, Alex shares the starkly different worlds that left-leaning and right-leaning Americans are living in — and why the divide feels deeper than ever. Mel and Alex explore why Trump’s messaging on crime and safety lands so powerfully with certain women, the cultural narratives that shape how women on both sides see the world, and the emotional toll political polarization is taking on female identity, community, and confidence. Connect with Alex Morris:  Instagram @alexmorriswrite Substack: alexmorriswrite.substack.com Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Connect with Mel Histon: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Domestic violence doesn’t always look like what we imagine — and for many women, the danger begins long before the first moment of fear. In this powerful episode, host - Mel Histon -  sits down with TikTok superstar and domestic violence advocate Paige Bush, who courageously shares her journey from escaping and surviving abuse to using her voice to support thousands of others. Paige opens up about the complexities of abusive relationships, the subtle red flags that often go unnoticed, and how tactics like love bombing, isolation, and control slowly eroded her sense of self. She speaks candidly about the moment everything changed, the terrifying reality of leaving, and how the support of one safe friend became a lifeline. Today, Paige uses her platform to educate, empower, and remind survivors that they’re not alone. Her honesty sheds light on the mental health impact of domestic violence, the importance of understanding healthy relationship dynamics, and the ongoing process of healing after trauma. If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic or family violence, this conversation is a reminder that support exists — and that reclaiming your life is possible. Connect with Paige Bush:  Instagram @paigy.91 Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista TikTok: paigebush91   Connect with Mel Histon: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bullying isn’t just “kids being kids”—it can leave deep, lasting scars on mental health. In this episode, host, Mel Histon, and special guest, Charlotte Thaarup, explore the often-overlooked connection between bullying and anxiety, depression, and emotional trauma. They dive into how persistent bullying can affect the brain and central nervous system, influence self-perception, and shape a sense of safety that can last into adulthood. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone reflecting on your own experiences, this conversation sheds light on how bullying impacts long-term mental well-being—and what can be done to support healing. To hear more Hey Soul Sista episodes first, SUBSCRIBE, FOLLOW, LIKE AND SHARE! Connect with Charlotte Thaarup: https://themindfulnessclinic.com.au/ Instagram @the_mindfulness_clinic   Connect with Mel Histon:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram @melissahiston  Instagram @heysoulsistapodcast  Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the depths of anorexia and domestic violence to becoming a voice for healing and women’s wellbeing, Sophie Pigott’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, nourishment, and soulful growth. In this deeply moving episode of Hey Soul Sista, Sophie shares with host, Mel Histon, her powerful story of healing and finding peace — from developing an eating disorder as a young girl, to surviving a domestic violence relationship. Through years of therapy, inner work, yoga and self-compassion, she rebuilt her relationship with her body, her mind, and her soul: and is now a shining light nourishing and healing others!! As a Clinical Nutritional Biochemist, founder of Raw Nutrition, and a mama-to-be, Sophie helps other women find balance, nourishment, and peace from the inside out. In this episode, she opens up about: ✨ How childhood and trauma can shape our relationship with food and our bodies✨ The connection between emotional health and physical wellbeing✨ Rebuilding self-trust after toxic relationships and abuse✨ Women’s health, hormones, and the power of holistic nutrition✨ Why true healing isn’t about control — it’s about compassion This is a heartfelt conversation about healing, nourishment, resilience, body wisdom, and the beauty of coming home to yourself. Connect with Sophie Pigott: Instagram  @sophie_pigottRaw Nutrition  @rawnutritionbysoph Connect with Mel:  Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Instagram  @melissahistonInstagram  @heysoulsistapodcast Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista  Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fertility isn’t just a medical issue — it’s a deeply emotional, human journey filled with hope, heartbreak, and resilience. In this heartfelt episode of Hey Soul Sista, host Mel Histon chats with Dr Erin Fuller, fertility specialist from Genea, about the highs and lows of trying to conceive — from infertility and IVF to the emotional strength and resilience of women on this path. Dr Erin shares her insights into the biological and emotional pull toward motherhood, what really happens during fertility treatments, and how hope, healing, and science come together to support women on their journey to pregnancy. Whether you’re navigating fertility yourself, considering IVF, or supporting someone you love, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, supported, and inspired. Connect with Mel: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! https://www.youtube.com/@heysoulsista https://www.instagram.com/heysoulsistapodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/melissahiston/ Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What really happens when we die — and what does it teach us about how to truly live? In this soul-expanding episode, Rebecca Gibson, a psychic medium and psychiatric nurse, shares her extraordinary personal near-death experience and the profound insights it gave her about consciousness, life after death, and the healing power of the Higher Self. Rebecca’s story bridges the worlds of science and spirit, offering a compassionate, grounded perspective on what it means to journey beyond the body — and return transformed. Through her own near-death experience and years of work supporting others, Rebecca reveals how these moments between life and death awaken us to deeper truths about love, healing, and the eternal nature of consciousness. This conversation explores: What happens when consciousness expands beyond the physical body How Rebecca witnessed her own surgery from above — and the peace she felt on the other side Why many people who’ve had NDEs lose their fear of death and completely transform their lives How reconnecting with the Higher Self can activate deep emotional and physical healing — what some call quantum healing The growing intersection between spirituality and mental health And how compassion, purpose, and trust are key to living an awakened life If you’ve ever wondered what lies beyond the veil, or how these extraordinary experiences can change everything we think we know about life and death — this episode will open your heart and mind.   If you’ve ever wondered what lies beyond the veil, or how these extraordinary experiences can change everything we think we know about life and death — this episode will open your heart and mind. Connect with Rebecca Gibson Website: https://rebeccagibson.com https://www.instagram.com/rebecca_gibson_psychicmedium/ Connect with Mel: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! https://www.youtube.com/@heysoulsista https://www.instagram.com/heysoulsistapodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/melissahiston/ Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com Website: gotyourbacksista.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psychologist, Kaz Amos, and yoga teacher, Holly Green, join host, Mel Histon, to explore the art of letting go and finding peace through the combined wisdom of psychology, yoga, and spirituality. Mel, Kaz, and Holly discuss: How people hold onto past experiences and how to release them Letting go of attachments, expectations, and control Somatic practices, yoga, and breathwork as tools for emotional healing Cultivating presence, peace, and curiosity amidst life’s challenges Practical steps to reconnect with your body, mind, and breath This episode blends psychological insights with yogic wisdom to provide a holistic approach to navigating life with ease, peace, and self-awareness. Connect with Kaz and Holly: Follow Kaz on Instagram: kaz.amos Website: kazamos.com.au  Through the Hummingbird Centre for psychology sessions, workshops, and speaking engagements. Hummingbird Centre Follow Holly on Instagram: holly___green___ Website and join Holly’s mailing list for online classes: beingdivinelyyou.com In Newcastle? Find Holly at Twine Yoga Studio, Adamstown. Connect with Mel: Subscribe to make sure you hear the next instalment of Hey Soul Sista! Follow Hey Soul Sista on Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcast Follow Mel on Instagram: @melissahiston Watch the podcast video on YouTube: @heysoulsista Website: heysoulsista.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply healing and heartfelt conversation, host, Mel Histon, sits down Nicola Unite—a psychotherapist, breathwork facilitator, and founder of The Unite Space—to explore the impact that trauma has in people's lives, how our bodies hold the traumatic stories of our past, and the healing pathways to a calm, peaceful and soulful life. Together they dive into how trauma is stored in the body, how conscious connected breathwork can rewire the nervous system, and why somatic therapy helps us finally release the pain we’ve been holding on to for years. Nicola shares profound insights about the relationship between healing, embodiment, and spiritual growth, and how reconnecting to the body and the breath can open the door to peace, wholeness, and a felt sense of love. Mel and Nicola also share personal experiences of healing, anxiety, and release—reminding us that we don’t have to carry our pain forever, and that every moment of breath can be a return home to the soul. In This Episode Why we all carry emotional wounds and patterns—and how they show up in daily life How trauma and stress are stored in the body What happens in a conscious connected breathwork session The nervous system’s role in healing and regulation The link between breath, the soul, and the higher self How somatic therapy helps us feel and release what’s been buried Why “reframing thoughts” isn’t enough for deep healing The difference between talking about emotions and actually feeling them Real-life transformations through breathwork How to reconnect with your body and expand your capacity for peace Simple daily practices for grounding and self-connection  Connect with Nicola 🌐 Website: nicolaunite.com📸 Instagram: @the.unite.space   Connect with Mel & Hey Soul Sista 🎧 Listen to more episodes: Hey Soul Sista Podcast📸 Follow on Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcast 📸 Follow on Instagram: @melissahiston ⚠️ Disclaimer The content shared in this episode is for informational and inspirational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Always seek support from a qualified healthcare provider regarding your individual needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What really is toxic femininity—and how is it shaping our lives, relationships, and sense of self? In this powerful episode of Hey Soul Sista, I chat with mindfulness teacher Charlotte Thaarup about how cultural conditioning teaches women to be “nice” and self-sacrificing, and how those patterns can become toxic. We explore everyday examples—like people-pleasing, gossip, victimhood, and indirect communication—and how they play out in friendships, workplaces, and relationships. Charlotte also shares practical tools for breaking free from these scripts and stepping into authenticity, accountability, and freedom. If you’ve ever struggled with being “too nice” or dimming your truth, this conversation will inspire you to reflect, reset, and reclaim your voice. Connect with Charlotte Thaarup:🌐 themindfulnessclinic.com.au📧 [email protected]🎧 Spotify: mindfulness_alive (meditations, articles, and free resources) Connect with Mel Histon:🎙️ Follow the Hey Soul Sista podcast wherever you listen📸 Instagram: @melissahiston 📸 Instagram:@heysoulsistapodcast Website: heysoulsista.com    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode of Hey Soul Sista, host, Mel Histon sits down with Jacinta McDonell, co-founder of Anytime Fitness Australia, who helped grow the brand into nearly 600 gyms. From the outside, she was a picture of business success – but on the inside, she felt the pull toward a more authentic, soulful life. Jacinta shares how she found the courage to walk away from the boardroom, face the grief of leaving behind old identities, and realign her life with deeper purpose, spirituality, and service. We explore: 💜 Co-founding and growing Australia's most successful fitness empire - Anytime Fitness 💜 The courage it takes to release egoic attachment and choose authenticity over hustle 💜 The power of pausing to listen to your authentic voice and higher self 💜 Jacinta’s work mentoring women through A Founder’s Path and her leadership role with The Hunger Project 💜 Journaling, yoga, meditation, and rituals that support healing and inner work 💜 How identity shifts and cycles of nature shape midlife transitions 💜 Why our friendships and communities can influence whether we grow or stay stuck Jacinta’s story is a beautiful reminder that midlife can be a doorway to a new path in life. If you’ve ever asked yourself, Is this it? or felt the longing to course-correct and live more soulfully, this episode will inspire you to pause, reflect, and step into your next chapter with courage and grace. 🌐 Connect with Jacinta:Website: jacintamcdonell.comInstagram: @jacintamcdonellThe Hunger Project: thehungerproject.org.au ✨ Connect with Mel:Instagram: @melissahiston Instagram: @heysoulsistapodcastWebsite: heysoulsista.com.au  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the life you’ve built is turned upside down overnight? In this episode of Hey Soul Sista, journalist, writer, and podcaster Laura Jackel shares with host, Mel Histon, the shocking moment a landslip in New Lambton left her family home unsafe and forced them to suddenly move out — finding themselves, quite literally, without a place to live. Laura opens up about the emotional and practical challenges of losing her home, how her family is coping with the upheaval, and what she’s learning about resilience, community, and the true meaning of “home.” We also dive into her career as a journalist, the celebrities she’s interviewed, and some of the funny and unexpected moments that have shaped her storytelling journey. This is a raw and inspiring conversation about loss, strength, and finding light in the darkest of times. What you’ll hear in this episode: -The night everything changed for Laura and her family -The emotional toll of suddenly being displaced -How her children and community have responded -The challenges of navigating support systems after disaster -Laura’s career highlights as a journalist and podcaster -What resilience, hope, and home really mean when everything else is stripped away. ⭐ If you love this episode, please subscribe, rate & review—it helps us reach more sistas. ⭐ ✨ Connect with Laura Instagram: @laura.jackel Website: laurajackel.com.au Substack: Laura Jackel Writes    ✨ Connect with Mel Instagram: @melissa_histon Website: heysoulsista.com  Website: gotyourbacksista.com Podcast IG: @heysoulsistapodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.