After a mini-break over the bye, The Essential Listen is back this week ahead of Essendon's Thursday night blockbuster against West Coast at Optus Stadium.

Featuring co-hosts Rohan Connolly and Megan Hustwaite, the podcast takes an in-depth look at all things essentially Essendon. 

Below is an episode rundown.

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0:00 - 4:23: Intro + Dylan Clarke's Rising Star nomination

Rohan and Megan preview what's coming up and share the love for young Bomber Dylan Clarke, who was awarded the Round 13 NAB AFL Rising Star nomination this week.

4:27 – 13:45: Reviewing the win over Hawthorn

High praise for the Bombers' league-leading defence, the huge performance from Irishman Conor McKenna put under the microscope, while the Ben Stratton incidents continue to dominate the agenda.

13:53 – 23:57: Round 14 preview

The star Eagle Dylan Clarke should tag, two key match-ups analysed, final predictions from Rohan and Megan, and more. Also available to watch.

24:15 –27:20: Questions from listeners

Which grounds best the suit Bombers? If a mid-season trade period was in play, who should we target? How is Irving Mosquito tracking, and is an AFL debut close? Use #TheEssentialListen for your questions.

27:24 – 37:28: Best 22 - Dons from WA

Rohan Connolly trawls through history archives, birth certificates and more to bring you the best 22 of Bombers from Western Australia.

37:50 – End: VFL/VFLW wrap

All the news on Essendon’s VFL and VFLW teams.