Broadcast: Saturday 4 July 2026

Technology has changed the way we live, work and connect—but one thing hasn’t changed: the importance of human connection.

This week’s episode of Building Stronger Communities explored what it means to raise children in today’s digital world, bringing together lived experience, expert insights, youth perspectives and practical resources to support parents, grandparents and carers.

Artificial Intelligence – Preparing Our Children for the Future

Our first guest was AI educator Matt Esterman, founder of The Next Word, who shared how artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday life.

Rather than fearing AI, Matt encouraged families to approach it with curiosity, confidence and responsibility. We explored how AI is changing education, work and problem-solving, while discussing the importance of helping young people develop critical thinking skills alongside emerging technology.

Download the AI Resources for Parents fromThe Next World website

Jessica’s Story – The Power of Support

One of the most inspiring conversations came from Jessica Bush, who shared her journey through Parent Pathways, delivered by The Salvation Army Employment Plus.

Jessica spoke openly about overcoming challenges as a young parent, finding confidence through the support of her mentor, and ultimately launching her own business, AJT Artistry, in Minchinbury.

Her story reminded us that asking for help is never a sign of weakness—and that the right support at the right time can change the course of someone’s life.

We also welcomed Jessica Kneath, Area Manager, and Sharlene Longman, Jessica’s Parent Pathways mentor, who explained how the program helps parents overcome barriers, build confidence and take meaningful steps towards employment and education.

Through Young Eyes

Our resident youth voice, Piper Johnson, shared how today’s young people use technology to learn, stay informed and connect with others.

Her perspective highlighted something many parents can benefit from—technology itself isn’t the problem. Open conversations, trust and understanding are what help families navigate the digital world together.

Knowledge is Power

This week’s Knowledge is Power segment featured the Australian Government’s One Talk at a Time campaign, encouraging parents and carers to have regular conversations with children about body safety.

Resource Download – One Talk at a Time from the National Office for Child Safety Australia

We also explored how trusted online resources now provide families with practical conversation starters, activity booklets and expert guidance—making it easier than ever to access reliable parenting information when it’s needed most.

Brain Energy

Our Brain Energy segment reminded us that while technology has evolved rapidly, our brains still need the same things they’ve always needed—connection, belonging and meaningful relationships.

We also announced that Luke Evans from Emotive Work will join us as the regular voice behind Brain Energy from next week’s program, bringing practical resilience strategies and insights to help listeners better understand their mental wellbeing.

Community Champion

This week also marked the launch of our brand-new Community Champion segment.

Our very first Community Champion was Piper Johnson, recognised for receiving the Beecroft Rotary Youth Changemaker of the Year – Community Service Award. Piper’s commitment to volunteering and giving back to her community is a wonderful reminder that leadership has no age limit.

Switch Off & Connect

This week’s challenge encouraged listeners not to switch off technology completely, but instead to switch on their curiosity.

Ask someone:

• What’s your favourite thing about technology?
• Has technology helped you learn something new?
• Do you think technology brings people closer together—or sometimes further apart?

Listening without judgement is one of the simplest ways we can strengthen relationships and better understand one another.

Looking Ahead

Next Saturday, Building Stronger Communities celebrates NAIDOC Week.

We’ll explore the origins of NAIDOC, how it has grown into one of Australia’s most significant celebrations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements, and report back from local community celebrations across Western Sydney.

Whether you’re attending your first NAIDOC event or have celebrated for many years, we invite you to join us as we continue learning, listening and building stronger communities together.

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Building Stronger Communities airs every Saturday from 8:00–10:00 am on SWR 99.9FM.

Where everyone has a place and every story matters.