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

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.