In this warm, reflective episode of Yarns With Linda and Preston, the hosts talk honestly about the pressures and commercialisation of the holiday season and how to bring the focus back to connection. They share family traditions (like lolly drives and Giving Trees), ideas for simple, meaningful activities across December, and how to reduce stress by shifting expectations around presents. Linda and Preston also discuss the importance of filling your own cup, being present with kids and community, and choosing rituals that bring gratitude and genuine joy rather than debt or anxiety. Practical, heartfelt and quietly funny — this episode is a reminder that the best presents are our time, attention and kindness.

Show Notes

• Opening reflections on slowing down, noticing Country and the season’s changes.
• The pressure and commercialisation of Christmas — why it can feel overwhelming.
• Family rules and strategies: not buying gifts for adults, Secret Santa, and moving extended-family gatherings to a different weekend to ease pressure.
• Lolly drive tradition — taking kids around the neighbourhood to hand out lollies as an act of giving.
• Creative, low-cost December activities (making baubles, cookie decorating, viewing Christmas lights) to build memory-rich traditions.
• The value of being present: putting phones away, weekly family dinners, and prioritising time over material gifts.
• The need to fill your own cup — self-care and recognising when you’re depleted so you can give from a full heart.
• A gentle call to examine traditions, shift expectations, and choose giving that actually nourishes family, community and spirit

Brought to you by Podfire.

In this warm and reflective episode of Yarns With Linda and Preston, the pair share stories about travel, rest, and rediscovering the magic in our own backyard. As holiday season approaches, they explore the pressures families face to create the “perfect” getaway and how true relaxation often comes from slowing down, connecting with people, and appreciating the land beneath our feet.

Show Notes

• Reflections on the fast-approaching holiday season and why so many of us feel pressure to “make it perfect.”
• Linda and Preston discuss how stress, expectation, and cost can steal the joy from a getaway.
• The beauty of slow travel — caravanning, camping, and connecting with locals.
• Why Australia’s diversity offers endless opportunities for learning, rest, and reflection.
• Preston shares stories from travelling across regional and remote Australia through work and community visits.
• Linda’s memories of a healing pilgrimage to Central Australia and family time in Hawaii.
• The lessons of local knowledge, storytelling, and listening to the Country’s rhythm.
• A reflection on privilege, gratitude, and perspective — finding richness in simplicity.

Brought to you by Podfire.

In this thought-provoking episode of Yarns With Linda and Preston, the pair dive into the complexities of immigration, identity, and the divisions shaping Australia today. Sparked by recent news and public debate, they reflect on media narratives, political leadership, and the underlying fears that fuel division. Through their yarn, Linda and Preston explore the power of perspective, empathy, and listening—reminding us that connection, acceptance, and shared humanity are the true antidotes to division. With honesty and hope, they challenge us to reflect on how we can each practice understanding in our daily lives.

Show Notes

• Preston raises the controversial topic of immigration policy and its place in the national conversation.
• Linda reflects on cycles of division, negativity, and media-driven fear in Australia’s social and political landscape.
• Why connection, reciprocity, and respect are key to healing and unity.
• The importance of perspective, empathy, and listening—and why we often avoid seeing the world through another’s eyes.
• Reflections on identity, history, and pride in culture, and how these shape our understanding of belonging.
• Stories, struggles, and why every person has a unique journey worth sharing.
• Exploring marches, protests, and dialogue—do they divide or create space for unity?
• A hopeful call to practice acceptance and understanding, even when views differ.

Share the Luv

In this heartfelt episode of Yarns with Linda and Preston, the hosts sit down with special guest Glenn Barry to share stories of culture, resilience, and healing. Glenn opens up about his personal journey, what it means to walk proudly in culture while navigating modern challenges, and the importance of connection to community and Country. Together, they unpack themes of belonging, identity, and the power of storytelling as a safe space for healing and growth. This yarn is both grounding and inspiring – a celebration of culture, people, and journeys that shape who we are.

Show Notes

• Introduction – welcoming Glenn Barry and setting the tone for the yarn
• Glenn’s story – upbringing, influences, and personal journey
• Walking between worlds – balancing culture, identity, and modern life
• The power of storytelling – creating safe spaces to share and heal
• Belonging and connection – to Country, community, and culture
• Resilience & healing – navigating challenges with strength and pride
• Closing reflections – gratitude, lessons, and what listeners can take away

In this heartfelt episode of Yarns With Linda and Preston, the duo reflect on the energy and connection of NAIDOC Week celebrations and how they bring communities together like one big family reunion. They dive into the importance of life’s transitions—our rites of passage—and how sharing moments across generations, from elders to young ones, builds resilience and belonging. Through stories of family, technology, and the simple joy of a hug or a cup of tea, Linda and Preston remind us that real growth and transformation happen when we nurture our connections and walk through life’s journeys together.

Show Notes

• NAIDOC Week reflections – community celebrations, reconnection, and the feeling of a big family reunion.
• The joy of seeing young people step up and take part in cultural events and community activities.
• Rites of passage – why life’s transitions matter and how they shape who we are.
• Elders, reciprocity, and intergenerational connection – learning to both guide and be guided.
• How technology affects identity and connection, and the importance of unplugging to reconnect with family, community, and nature.
• Personal stories of moving out, parenting, grandparenting, and the lessons of appreciation and growth.
• A gentle call to reflect: What are your life transitions, and how can sharing your story support others?

You can find us on socials under yarnswithlindaandpreston

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Linda and Preston sit down for a heartfelt conversation about NAIDOC Week — what it means, why it matters, and how it connects us to identity, community, and responsibility. They share personal reflections on their own ties to Aboriginal heritage and explore the power of understanding where you come from.

From the importance of intergenerational connections to the role of the next generation in shaping a stronger future, this yarn dives deep into the complexities of relationships, community contributions, and what it really means to give back.

The episode wraps with a reminder to get involved, celebrate Aboriginal culture, and honour NAIDOC Week in meaningful ways.

In this powerful episode, Linda and Preston explore what leadership should look like in times of division, uncertainty, and change. Reflecting on the emotional weight of recent political events, they unpack how empathy, honest communication, and genuine community connection can redefine the way we lead.

From basic human needs to big societal shifts, this conversation dives into the role of leadership in healing, empowering individuals, and building stronger, more inclusive communities. It’s a call to step up — not just as leaders, but as compassionate humans willing to connect, listen, and create change from the inside out.

Linda and Preston dive into the complexities of Australia’s current political landscape, unpacking the growing divide between communities and government.

They explore how short-term thinking, hidden agendas, and rigid systems erode trust — and why meaningful relationships, accountability, and community-driven change are more important than ever.

From class disparities to the power of grassroots action, this conversation is a call for deeper connection, genuine communication, and a more human approach to politics.