Yarns with Linda and Preston

Produced by Podfire

After returning from a three-week overseas holiday, Preston reflects on the importance of stepping away from work, experiencing different cultures, and becoming more curious about the stories, history and people beyond the typical tourist experience. Together, Linda and Preston explore how travel can deepen appreciation for both other cultures and Australia, comparing ancient European structures with the deep cultural connection Aboriginal people have to Country and the natural landscape.

The conversation shifts to the pressures of modern life, discussing how time, work and society's expectations can disconnect people from themselves and each other. Linda shares her thoughts on what she calls "psycho season"—the busy lead-up to Christmas—and the growing pressure of materialism, while both hosts encourage listeners to refocus on connection, presence and meaningful relationships rather than expensive gifts.

Throughout the episode, they reflect on the value of slowing down, travelling with curiosity, embracing simpler living, and creating opportunities to connect with family, community and Country. They also discuss the importance of listening with an open heart, working together to create positive change, and leading future generations by example through action rather than words. The episode closes with a reminder that meaningful conversations, kindness and genuine human connection remain some of the greatest gifts we can offer one another.

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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.

Produced by Podfire.

In Episode 25, Auntie Linda Biumaiwai and Preston Campbell reflect on the importance of conversation, connection, and community in a world that can often feel overwhelming. Together they unpack the emotional weight of working in community spaces, the exhaustion that can come from constantly supporting others, and the need for reciprocity in relationships.

The pair discuss how meaningful change rarely comes from one big action, but instead grows through small, consistent acts of care, encouragement, and listening. They explore the importance of helping people recognise their own value, creating safe spaces for honest conversations, and supporting one another without losing authenticity or self-worth.

Produced by Podfire

In this episode of Yarns, Linda and Preston reflect on the idea of feeling “stuck” and what it means to be in a rut—both as individuals and as a society. They explore how environment, perspective, and personal experiences shape who we become, and how growth often requires stepping into uncomfortable spaces with an open mind and heart.  

The conversation dives into the importance of shifting perspective, whether in challenging personal moments or within larger systems like correctional facilities, where time could be better used to create positive change. They highlight how many people feel trapped by circumstances, expectations, or judgment, and stress the importance of recognising those moments and actively working to move forward.

This episode is produced by Podfire  

In Episode 23, Linda and Preston explore the health system through the lens of personal responsibility, empathy, and connection. They reflect on real experiences to highlight how communication, understanding, and respect can shape outcomes during emotional and high-pressure situations.  

The conversation also touches on the challenges facing healthcare, especially in regional and remote communities, and the role individuals can play in improving their own wellbeing.  

At its core, this episode is a reminder that small changes, stronger relationships, and a shared sense of responsibility can lead to better outcomes for individuals, communities, and the system as a whole.

This episode is produced by Podfire.

In Episode 22, Auntie Linda and Preston are joined by two powerful First Nations voices in health and wellbeing — Dr Sarah Jane Springer and psychologist Dr Clinton Schultz.

Together, they yarn about cultural governance, systemic reform in health, and the responsibility of stepping up for the next generation. From challenging deficit narratives in medicine to reimagining shared antenatal care through true community consultation, this conversation dives deep into what it means to move from compliance to commitment.

The episode explores the importance of living cultural law in everyday life — not just talking about it. The guests reflect on privilege, burnout, ego, self-accountability, and the courage required to walk strongly in both worlds. They unpack how strength of self fuels strength of collective, why relationships matter more than KPIs, and why being invited to the table is no longer enough — we must design it.

There’s laughter, honesty, hard truths, and heartfelt reflections on parenting, leadership, identity, and the next generation. This is a yarn about respect as action, wellness as holistic practice, and creating spaces where culture isn’t diluted — it’s lived.

Produced by Podfire.

In Episode 21 of Yarns with Linda and Preston, the conversation dives deep into the meaning of the Indigenous All Stars beyond the spectacle of the game itself. Linda and Preston reflect on identity, responsibility, culture, and the evolution of purpose over time—both personally and collectively. From journeys of self-discovery and stepping outside comfort zones to the power of connection, education, and shared responsibility, this yarn explores how sport can be a gateway to understanding culture, community, and what it truly means to look after one another. 

Produced by Podfire.

In this New Year yarn, Linda and Preston dive deep into what fresh starts truly mean beyond the marketing hype and calendar-driven expectations. They explore the contrast between commercialised “seasons” and the real cycles of nature, discussing how reconnecting with Country, animals, plants and natural rhythms can strengthen our wellbeing. The conversation unpacks resilience across generations, the importance of contribution, and the role of responsibility, respect and self-awareness in personal growth.

In this episode, Linda and Preston yarn about:

• Reflecting on Christmas, family time and what really matters
• The difference between presence and presents
• How society creates “new year” pressure through marketing
• Returning to natural seasons, cultural teachings and listening to Country
• Awareness of animals, plants, weather and how they guide us
• Connection, community and the shifts happening in the world
• Challenges—why they come, how they help us grow and how we respond
• Resilience across generations and how it has changed
• Respect and responsibility as everyday practices
• The danger of blame and excuses—and why they are “poisonous cousins”
• Holding ourselves accountable while giving grace when we slip up
• The impact of our energy on others, even strangers
• The importance of uncomfortable conversations and personal growth
• Finding balance and preparing for opportunities that arise unexpectedly