Wales In Context: Public Affairs and Politics

In this episode, Kaiesha Page interviews Welsh Conservative Samuel Kurtz MS, who shares his family history, political journey, and insights into Welsh farming, energy, and electoral systems. Discover how his background influences his policy priorities and vision for Wales' future.You can find out more about Sam Kurtz MS here: https://www.samuelkurtz.wales/.Key Topics:Family history and heritage of Samuel KearnsHis political journey and joining the Conservative Party in 2016Major issues facing Welsh farmers: bovine TB, NVZs, SFS, IHTEnergy policy: pylons, offshore wind, nuclear, oil and gasElectoral system reform and parliamentary efficiencyTo contact us about this podcast, please email the podcast lead, Kaiesha Page - kaiesha.page@talking.wales.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.waleChapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Background01:18 Meeting Samuel Kurtz and His Political Journey03:58 Welsh Politics and the Conservative Party06:39 Family Heritage and Personal Identity09:01 Political Awakening and University Years11:59 Background Influences on Political Views13:06 Farming Challenges in Wales17:41 Support for Farmers and Personal Stories18:50 Reforming Agricultural Support Schemes22:04 Electoral System and Welsh Democracy27:35 Energy Policy and Wales’ Renewable Future33:29 Net Zero and Pylon Protests35:53 Nuclear Power and Welsh Language Concerns37:44 Election Outlook and Personal Achievements38:10 Policy Wins and Local Impact39:55 Community Safety and Infrastructure Improvements40:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode Laura talks to Karen Harries, a woman from Llangadog who has been living with ME and Fibromyalgia for 14 years. She is a strong advocate for the right to die, something which is highly personal to her.The episode also speaks to Matthew Brindley, policy and advocacy manager for Wales at Hospice UK.The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill legislative consent motion in the Senedd has been delayed three times. The episode looks at its contentious nature and the arguments on either side.TakeawaysPalliative care and assisted dyingPersonal experiences and perspectivesCampaigning for legislative changeChapters00:00 Introduction and Legislative Delay06:02 Impact of Illness and End-of-Life Concerns12:54 Continued Advocacy and EducationProduced, hosted and edited by Laura Butler. Guest appearances from Karen Harries and Matthew Brindley.

This episode looks at what the welfare state actually does — and who it’s for. We meet “Jamie” (not her real name), a mother in South Wales affected by the two-child limit, and explore the gap between political myths about welfare and the reality of Universal Credit, in-work poverty and childcare.We unpack how “benefits culture” became a defining story of the 2010s, how Wales absorbs welfare reforms it didn’t design, and what the evidence says about child poverty, work and outcomes. We ask a simple question: is welfare meant to punish poverty, or prevent it?To contact us about this podcast, please email the podcast lead, Kaiesha Page - kaiesha.page@talking.wales.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

In this episode of Talking Wales, Kaiesha breaks down the major changes coming to Wales’ democratic landscape as the Senedd prepares for a new electoral system. She explores the history of how the institution has elected its members to date — a mixed model blending first-past-the-post with proportional representation — and the confusion and limitations that system has created for both voters and accountability.With the recent passage of the Senedd Reform Act, the picture is now shifting. The number of members will increase from 60 to 96, and Wales will transition to a closed party list form of proportional representation. The goal? A clearer, more balanced, and more democratic approach to elections that reflects voter intent and strengthens scrutiny at Cardiff Bay.To contact us about this podcast, please email the podcast lead, Kaiesha Page - kaiesha.page@talking.wales.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

Tidy Butt joins us to discuss mental health in Wales from the perspective of community, connection, and lived experience rather than just policy or crisis management. With an emergency mental health tribunal bill being fast-tracked through the Senedd, the public conversation has focused mostly on politics and procedure, but we wanted to understand what moments like this reveal about stigma, support systems, and the day-to-day realities faced by people struggling long before they meet the state.In this conversation, we speak with Matt Creel, founder of Welsh mental health charity Tidy Butt, about why the organisation started, who it is for, and how third sector support can sit alongside (and sometimes fill gaps left by) clinical services. We explore the importance of belonging, the barriers men face in asking for help, and the challenges of navigating neurodiversity diagnoses in a system with long waiting lists and no Right to Choose scheme. At the heart of the episode is the idea that mental health is not only about treatment or crisis, but about community, dignity, and understanding.Key Takeaways:Tidy Butt started as a response to personal struggles with mental health.Community and connection are vital for mental health support.Holistic approaches can complement professional mental health services.Waiting lists for neurodiversity diagnoses are often lengthy and chaotic.Stigma around mental health still exists, particularly for men.Engaging men in mental health discussions is crucial.Innovative spaces can lower barriers to mental health support.Third sector organisations play a key role in filling gaps in mental health services.Mental health is relevant to everyone, not just those in crisis.Building community connections can significantly improve mental well-being.To contact us about this podcast, please email the podcast lead, Kaiesha Page - kaiesha.page@talking.wales.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

This episode of Talking Wales explores the transformation of the National Assembly for Wales into the Senedd Cymru, highlighting the implications of this change for Welsh democracy, accountability, and law-making powers. It discusses the historical context, the evolution of powers, and the significance of the new name in reflecting Wales' political maturity.To contact us about this podcast, please email the podcast lead, Kaiesha Page - kaiesha.page@talking.wales.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

In this episode of the Talking Wales podcast, hosts Kaiesha Page and Laura Butler discuss the significant political events of 2025 in Wales, including the impact of the Caerphilly by-election, the rise of Plaid Cymru, and the challenges faced by Labour. They explore the implications of youth voting, the ethical considerations in campaigning, and the ongoing tensions between Welsh and UK Labour. The conversation also delves into pressing issues such as flooding, nuclear power, and the crisis in higher education, culminating in a look ahead to the upcoming election and the changes in the electoral system.Takeaways2026 is anticipated to be a pivotal year for Welsh politics.The passing of Hefin David marked a significant loss for the political community.The Caerphilly by-election highlighted the shifting political landscape in Wales.Plaid Cymru's rise reflects growing public discontent with Labour.Youth engagement in politics is becoming increasingly influential.Campaigning ethics were called into question during the by-election.Demographics in Caerphilly play a crucial role in political outcomes.Immigration remains a contentious issue in Welsh politics.Tensions between Welsh Labour and UK Labour are evident and impactful.The Barnett Formula continues to be a point of contention regarding funding.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

This episode explores the evolution of Welsh devolution through two pivotal referendums in 1997 and 2011. The first referendum resulted in a narrow approval for a national assembly, while the second referendum significantly expanded the powers of the assembly, transforming it into a proper legislature. The discussion highlights the cautious and pragmatic nature of political change in Wales and the ongoing implications of these historical votes on Welsh governance today.TakeawaysWelsh devolution was not initially met with enthusiasm.The 1997 referendum had a razor-thin margin of victory.Wales voted for a national assembly, not a full parliament.The assembly's powers were initially limited and dependent on Westminster.The 2011 referendum allowed for direct lawmaking powers.Public expectations shifted after the 2011 referendum.Responsibility for services became clearer post-2011.Incremental change characterizes Welsh political evolution.The referendums shaped current debates on independence.Future discussions may explore further devolution for Wales.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

This conversation explores the impact of foreign interference, particularly Russian influence, on British democracy, with a focus on the Brexit referendum and its aftermath. The discussion highlights the role of social media in shaping public opinion, the emotional manipulation through disinformation, and the implications for Wales, especially in light of the Nathan Gill case. The speakers emphasize the need for greater awareness and regulation of misinformation as elections approach, and the potential future challenges posed by AI in the spread of false information.TakeawaysForeign interference is often perceived as a distant issue, but it affects local democracies.The Brexit referendum marked a significant shift in how social media influenced political discourse.Disinformation thrives on emotional responses rather than factual accuracy.Russian-backed accounts played a crucial role in amplifying divisive narratives during Brexit.The lack of understanding of algorithms contributed to the chaos of online campaigning.Wales has been significantly impacted by the narratives surrounding Brexit and Russian influence.The Nathan Gill case highlights the ongoing issues of bribery and foreign influence in politics.Public trust in political parties is fragile, especially in light of scandals.Misinformation continues to pose a threat to democratic processes, particularly in upcoming elections.There is a growing need for regulation and awareness of misinformation, especially with the rise of AI.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

n this episode, Laura Butler and Kaiesha Page discuss the UK government's Violence Against Women and Girls strategy, its implications for Wales, and the differences in legislative frameworks. They explore the delays in the strategy's publication, the unique challenges faced by Wales, and the importance of online safety and digital abuse. The conversation also touches on policing reforms, public safety initiatives, and the complexities of the justice system in addressing gendered violence. The episode highlights the need for comprehensive survivor support and the role of technology in both exacerbating and addressing these issues.TakeawaysThe UK government's strategy focuses on education, support, and justice.Wales has devolved powers affecting its approach to violence against women.Online safety is a growing concern, especially with AI technology.Policing reforms aim to prioritize violence against women and girls.Spiking is recognized as a significant gendered violence issue.Legal reforms are necessary to support survivors in the justice system.Survivor support initiatives vary between England and Wales.The impact of technology on gendered violence is complex and evolving.Collaboration between devolved nations can enhance strategies against violence.Accountability in policing and justice is crucial for survivor trust.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

This episode explores the origins and purpose of the Senedd, Wales' parliament, highlighting the historical context of Welsh governance, the need for local representation, and the evolution of devolution in Wales. It discusses the democratic deficit experienced by Wales under Westminster rule and the rationale behind establishing a devolved body to address Welsh-specific issues.TakeawaysWales has its own parliament, the Senedd, to address local needs.Historically, Wales was governed entirely from Westminster.Wales has different demographic and cultural needs compared to England.The democratic deficit led to calls for devolution in Wales.Devolution means shared power, not independence from the UK.The Senedd was designed to reflect Welsh values and priorities.Wales voted against Conservative governments but faced imposed policies.The Senedd evolved from a national assembly to a full parliament.The name change to Senedd reflects its increased powers and responsibilities.Decisions about Wales should be made by those accountable to the Welsh public.Where to find usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwalesThreads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwalesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.walesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwalesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=allBluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

Talking Wales is a podcast focused on Welsh politics and Welsh news, without party allegiance or manufactured debate.Hosted by Kay Page, editor and political contributor, and Laura Butler, freelance multimedia journalist, the podcast breaks down what’s happening in Wales, who is making decisions, and what those decisions mean in practice.Episodes focus on clarity and context — from devolved powers and policy decisions to underreported stories and structural issues affecting Wales.Talking Wales prioritises explanation over opinion, depth over noise, and information over performance.Occasional guests appear where they add expertise, not spectacle.Launching 5th January.