Yarning Up First Nations Stories with Caroline Kell

Caroline Kell
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Yarning Up is hosted by the ever-inspiring Caroline Kell - Mbarbrum woman, visionary behind Blak Wattle Coaching and Consulting, and TedX Speaker. This show is helping to redefine the way listeners engage with First Nations people, stories, experiences and perspectives, offering a refreshing alternative to the mainstream narrative.  Through candid and heartfelt conversations, this platform opens doors to authentic learning and connection with First Nations people, issues, causes, and stories. Its purpose is truth telling and to help all Australians learn and unlearn Australia’s past, to work towards a better future.  

  1. Aug 19

    Professor Chelsea Watego on Sovereignty, Refusal and Blak Knowing

    In this episode of Yarning Up, Caroline yarns with Professor Chelsea Watego - writer, scholar, mother, public intellectual and sovereign Black woman whose work has given so many of us language  for what we already knew in our bodies and lives. We yarn about Chelsea’s early years and what it was like growing up in a household that understood the racial relations of this country, while also being grounded in deep love, strength and Black power. Chelsea reflects on the teachings, people and experiences that shaped her understanding of our mob, and how those foundations would go on to guide her work interrogating the racial foundations of this country and its health systems that continue to paint us a problem.  This is a conversation about Blak love, and the unwavering love of mob, about the real impacts of racism, health systems, refusal, sovereignty and survival. It is also a conversation about what it means to remain connected to ourselves, our people/culture and our power inside systems that were never built for us.  Drawing from Chelsea’s work, including Another Day in the Colony, this yarn explores the racial foundations of institutions, the limits of inclusion, and what becomes possible when we stop asking colonial systems to save us. At the heart of the conversation is a question many mob carry: How do we stay sovereign, whole and connected when the weight of racial violence is heavy? To learn more about Professor Chelsea Watego click HERE If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review so we can elevate First Nations people and stories and don’t forget to follow the show! Follow Caroline on Instagram @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline HERE We would like to acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s First Peoples’ who have never ceded their sovereignty. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where the podcast was recorded. We pay our deepest respects to Traditional Owners across Australia and Elders past and present. And our future young generations

  2. Mar 18

    Meriki Onus - Historic Treaty Elections (Gellung Warl)

    In this episode of Yarning Up, the first instalment of Season Five, I sat down with Meriki Onus, who shared their passion for standing for election to the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria—an independent, democratically elected body representing First Peoples in Treaty negotiations. The Assembly forms part of Gellung Warl, a new overarching body established under the Victorian Government’s Statewide Treaty Act 2025. Meriki opened up about their family’s long history of political activism, reflecting on what it was like growing up on Lake Tyers Mission in Bung Yarnda. They spoke about listening to conversations around Aboriginal community control, Treaty, and sovereignty—shared by their Nan, Alma Thorpe, and Edna Brown—long before they had the language to fully understand them. They also shared their vision as a member: “putting community at the heart of Gellung Warl,” and what it means to reimagine what’s possible in resetting our relationship with government—and with ourselves—on our own terms. The Victorian Treaty Elections will take place from 21 March to 12 April 2026, with voting available online, in person, or by post. These elections determine representatives for the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria—an independent, democratically elected body that plays a key role in Treaty negotiations. Voting is not compulsory, but it’s a powerful opportunity for community to have a say in shaping the future of Treaty in Victoria. To learn more about the Treaty Elections happening in Victoria click HERE. To learn more about Meriki Onus candidacy click HERE.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review so we can elevate First Nations people and stories and don’t forget to follow the show! Follow Caroline on Instagram @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline HERE We would like to acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s First Peoples’ who have never ceded their sovereignty. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where the podcast was recorded. We pay our deepest respects to Traditional Owners across Australia and Elders past and present. And our future young generations.

  3. 05/20/2025

    Megan 'Megzy' Waters: Reconnecting First Nations Mind, Body and Country

    In this heartfelt episode of Yarning Up, host Caroline Kell sits down for a rich and inspiring yarn with Megan Waters—media presenter, host of Yokayi, Nike ambassador, and proud Warumungu and Yawuru woman. Megan is also a passionate community advocate, deeply committed to amplifying First Nations voices and supporting community wellbeing. Together, they explore what true wellness looks like from a First Nations perspective—mind, body, and spirit all connected. Megan reflects on her childhood growing up on Larrakia Country, the powerful influence of her family and cultural roots, and how these foundations have shaped her path in media, movement, and healing. From navigating grief and personal challenges to embracing breathwork, self-connection, and movement, Megan shares how she's been able to reclaim wellness through a decolonised and culturally grounded lens. Whether you're mob or an ally, this is a conversation that invites you to slow down, reconnect, and tune into your inner knowing. Full of wisdom, honesty, and hope, it’s a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from healing within and building community along the way. To learn more about Megan Waters, follow her  journey here: https://www.instagram.com/megzyy_/?hl=en https://open.spotify.com/show/3DECofSwJVsvAAIBZM1UTt Follow Caroline on Instagram: @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline here. We would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where this podcast was taped, and pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, past, present, and emerging across Australia. This podcast is brought to you by On Track Studio. www.ontrackstudio.com.au @on.track.studio For advertising opportunities, please email: hello@ontrackstudio.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Megan 'Megzy' Waters: Reconnecting First Nations Mind, Body and Country

  4. 04/28/2025

    Election Insights: Yarning with Senator Dorinda Cox on the 48th Federal Australian Election

    With less than a week until the 48th Federal Election, I had the privilege of sitting down with Yamatji-Noongar woman and the first Indigenous woman to represent Western Australia in the Senate, Senator Dorinda Cox. This election feels like a turning point—First Nations justice, climate, housing, and international solidarity are all on the ballot. In this candid episode, I explore Dorinda Cox’s personal journey and unprecedented path into politics, unpacking the challenges and lessons she gained from her time as a police officer. We discuss critical issues facing our mobs, from the cost of living and affordable housing to the government's lack of action on First Nations sovereignty and truth. We also delve into global solidarity with Indigenous communities and Palestine, tackling important conversations on colonisation, structural change, and the Greens' grassroots approach to these pressing matters and their election promises! It’s important to note that I was not compensated for this taping, nor any other Yarning Up taping. Our team reached out to all Senators, including Senator Jana Stewart, Senator Malindiri McCarthy, and Senator Jacinta Price, but received no response, and in Senator Stewart’s case, a decline. It was our intention to ask the tough questions on behalf of our mob while maintaining political neutrality. We are grateful to Senator Cox for allowing us to do that. To learn more about Senator Dorinda Cox click HERE. To learn more about what the Greens party is proposing in their election platform click HERE.   If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review so we can elevate First Nations people and stories and don’t forget to follow the show! Follow Caroline on Instagram @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline HERE   We would like to acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s First Peoples’ who have never ceded their sovereignty. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where the podcast was recorded. We pay our deepest respects to Traditional Owners across Australia and Elders past and present. And our future young generations.   This podcast was brought to you by On Track Studio. www.ontrackstudio.com.au @on.track.studio For advertising opportunities please email hello@ontrackstudio.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Election Insights: Yarning with Senator Dorinda Cox on the 48th Federal Australian Election

  5. 04/17/2025

    Troy Benjamin – The brains behind Blak Brews Tea and building a First Nations-led enterprise

    In this episode, we sit down with Troy Benjamin, a proud Wadi Wadi, Tadi Tadi, Mutti Mutti, and Wemba Wemba man. A entrepreneur, storyteller, and the visionary behind Black Brews, Australia’s first 100% First Nations-owned tea business. Troy’s journey is one of resilience, cultural pride, and groundbreaking success. From his early days navigating the challenges of business ownership, to winning Australia's first ever Food Stars with Gordon Ramsay, he has continuously pushed boundaries with fun and flair and mob in his heart. We dive into the importance of challenges and triumphs of building a First Nations-led enterprise and the process behind Blak Brews, being on TV and forming a friendship with Gordon Ramsey.. Troy also shares his insights on representation, the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship, and what it takes to turn passion into purpose-driven success. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a supporter of Indigenous businesses, or simply someone who loves hearing inspiring success stories, this episode is packed with wisdom, motivation, and some  powerful reflections!. To learn more about Troy Benjamin, follow his journey and business blakbrews.com Follow Caroline on Instagram: @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline here. We would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where this podcast was taped, and pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, past, present, and emerging across Australia. This podcast is brought to you by On Track Studio. www.ontrackstudio.com.au @on.track.studio For advertising opportunities, please email: hello@ontrackstudio.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Troy Benjamin – The brains behind Blak Brews Tea and building a First Nations-led enterprise

  6. 04/02/2025

    Kyarlee Tighe on Overcoming Adversity, Cultural Connection, and Advocating for First Nations Youth

    In this deeply moving episode of Yarning Up, we sit down with Kyarlee Tighe, a proud Kamilaroi and Wonnarua woman whose story of resilience, strength, and advocacy is nothing short of inspiring. Kyarlee shares her journey growing up in out-of-home care, the challenges of navigating the foster system as a young Aboriginal woman, and the impact of systemic barriers on First Nations youth. She opens up about overcoming personal and generational trauma, the importance of cultural identity in healing, and how she’s using her voice to advocate for young people in care. From her experiences as a high-level rugby league player forced into medical retirement to her current studies in nursing, Kyarlee’s story is a testament to the power of determination, connection, and self-belief. Tune in for a powerful yarn about breaking cycles, building community, and reclaiming identity. To connect with Kyarlee and her work, including her platform Our Mob, Our Voices, visit her Instagram @kyarleetighe.   Follow Caroline on Instagram @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline here!    We would like to acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s First Peoples’ who have never ceded their sovereignty. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where the podcast was taped. We pay our deepest respects to Traditional Owners across Australia and Elders past, present and emerging.   This podcast was brought to you by On Track Studio. www.ontrackstudio.com.au @on.track.studio   For advertising opportunities please email hello@ontrackstudio.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Kyarlee Tighe on Overcoming Adversity, Cultural Connection, and Advocating for First Nations Youth

  7. 03/04/2025

    Ella Noah Bancroft on First Nations Knowledge, Feminine Leadership, and Decolonisation

    Join us for a thought-provoking yarn with Bundjalung woman Ella Noah Bancroft, a storyteller, artist, and activist reshaping the conversation around decolonisation, community, and Indigenous-led solutions. Ella shares her journey of growing up on Country, the wisdom of her matriarchal lineage, and how she has dedicated her life to reclaiming First Nations ways of being. We explore the transformative power of women-centred societies, the role of food and land sovereignty in healing our communities, and the importance of rest as an act of resistance against colonial capitalism. Through her work with The Returning, Ella is creating spaces where women can reconnect with cultural knowledge, challenge oppressive systems, and nurture future generations. This episode is an inspiring call to action to rethink the way we live, lead, and connect. To connect with Ella further: Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/ellanoahbancroft_/ Get all other links here: https://linktr.eeellanoahbancroft_ Follow Caroline on Instagram: @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline here. We would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where this podcast was taped, and pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, past, present, and emerging across Australia. This podcast is brought to you by On Track Studio. www.ontrackstudio.com.au @on.track.studio For advertising opportunities, please email: hello@ontrackstudio.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Ella Noah Bancroft on First Nations Knowledge, Feminine Leadership, and Decolonisation

  8. 02/12/2025

    Rona Glynn-McDonald - Storytelling, Protecting Energy, and Honouring First Nations Wisdom

    Were back for 2025. Join us for a powerful yarn to kick things off, with Rona Glynn-McDonald—entrepreneur, storyteller, musician, and proud Central Desert woman. As the founding CEO of Common Ground and now First Nations Futures, Rona has dedicated years to amplifying First Nations voices, sharing stories, and shifting narratives across ‘Australia.’ In this conversation, Rona reflects on her journey of stepping away from fast-paced, rigid structures shaped by a colonial mindset. She shares how she protects her energy by embracing deeper connections—with family, Country, her old people, and herself—while also rediscovering her musical talents along the way. Guided by the wisdom of her namesake grandmother, a trailblazing traditional healer, Rona speaks on the power of sitting, listening, and honouring Indigenous ways of being. From reshaping her career to stepping into the world of DJ’ing and creative expression, her story is a testament to standing strong in Blak values, community, creativity, and reconnection. To connect with Rona and learn more about her music, all relevant links are below: Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/rona.ngamperle/ Or follow her passions here: https://linktr.ee/rona.ngamperle Follow Caroline on Instagram: @blak_wattle_coaching and learn more about working with Caroline here. We would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri/Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation where this podcast was taped, and pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, past, present, and emerging across Australia. This podcast is brought to you by On Track Studio. www.ontrackstudio.com.au @on.track.studio For advertising opportunities, please email: hello@ontrackstudio.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Rona Glynn-McDonald - Storytelling, Protecting Energy, and Honouring First Nations Wisdom
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About

Yarning Up is hosted by the ever-inspiring Caroline Kell - Mbarbrum woman, visionary behind Blak Wattle Coaching and Consulting, and TedX Speaker. This show is helping to redefine the way listeners engage with First Nations people, stories, experiences and perspectives, offering a refreshing alternative to the mainstream narrative.  Through candid and heartfelt conversations, this platform opens doors to authentic learning and connection with First Nations people, issues, causes, and stories. Its purpose is truth telling and to help all Australians learn and unlearn Australia’s past, to work towards a better future.  

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