This episode is produced by Podfire.

In Episode 28, Auntie Linda and Preston continue their conversation about challenging themselves, getting comfortable with uncomfortable conversations, and creating stronger connections within society. Together they reflect on the growing sense of disconnection, pressure and survival that many people are experiencing, discussing how fear, assumptions and a lack of respectful dialogue can prevent meaningful relationships from forming.

The conversation explores the importance of listening with an open mind, creating space for respectful disagreement, and moving beyond surface-level conversations. Preston shares his desire to be known for more than his rugby league career, while both hosts discuss broader topics including community, leadership, economics, trust, responsibility and the systems that shape everyday life.

The episode finishes with a powerful challenge to listeners: embrace the practice of yarning circles, starting at home with family and local communities. By encouraging equal voices, active listening and genuine respect, Auntie Linda and Preston believe small, local conversations can help build greater trust, strengthen communities and create a more connected future for the next generation.

This episode is produced by Podfire.

In Episode 27 of Yarns, Auntie Linda and Preston reflect on the importance of genuine conversation, curiosity and stepping beyond our comfort zones. Building on feedback from previous episodes, they explore why respectful dialogue matters, even when people disagree, and how authentic conversations can strengthen relationships and communities. The discussion touches on politics, identity, learning through lived experience, finding purpose in work, and the value of asking questions rather than pretending to have all the answers.

Throughout the episode, they encourage listeners to embrace discomfort as a pathway to growth, challenge their own perspectives, remain true to who they are, and create spaces where people can respectfully share different viewpoints. They also discuss supporting young people to discover their passions, balancing individual aspirations with community responsibility, and the importance of being open to learning from others. The episode concludes with a reminder that meaningful change begins with authenticity, curiosity and the courage to have respectful conversations, while also revealing that this discussion will continue in a second part released the following month.

In Episode 26, Linda and Preston explore the evolving roles and responsibilities of men and women in families, workplaces, sport, and community. Reflecting on their own experiences, they discuss how societal expectations have changed over time, the importance of understanding where we can add value, and why genuine communication is essential to healthy relationships.

The conversation touches on men’s and women’s groups, vulnerability, leadership, support, and the importance of creating safe spaces where people can learn from one another. Preston shares insights from his experiences in rugby league, speaking about service, responsibility, emotional regulation, and the role men can play in de-escalating conflict and supporting those around them.

Linda and Preston also discuss the contrasting environments surrounding men’s and women’s sport, highlighting opportunities for greater connection, support, and collaboration between the two. Throughout the episode, they challenge the idea of one group being “better” than another, instead celebrating the value that comes from different perspectives, experiences, and strengths.