Martin Shipton Meets...

Richard Wyn Jones

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 20:21:00 -0000

Professor Richard Wyn Jones, head of the Wales Governance Centre at Cardiff University, talks devolution, "Little Britain" and cultural warfare. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Shereen Williams

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 21:21:00 -0000

Shereen Williams, CEO of the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales, speaks on adapting to Welsh life from Singapore, and her community work with victims of coercive control.
Discussing religious conservatism, she tells Martin that the first time she wasn't allowed in a mosque because of her gender was here in Wales, and calls for the nation to be more representative of its citizens in public institutions
She's also talks about overseeing the controversial process of reviewing the number of Welsh MPs and local authorities. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Shavanah Taj

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 21:21:00 -0000

General secretary of TUC Wales, Shavanah Taj, talks about systemic structural discrimination and her own personal experiences.
She tells Martin why the trade union movement must be better organised, louder and more supportive of one another, if they are to hold the UK Government to account and meet the challenges of Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Bishop Cherry Vann

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 21:21:00 -0000

The first female Bishop of Monmouth, Cherry Vann, talks women in the church and the foundation of her faith.
She recalls her frustration and hurt as she waited five years to be ordained and what is was like to come out after hiding her sexuality through fear. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Owen Evans

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 21:21:00 -0000

How do you get more Welsh speakers watching S4C?
Chief executive Owen Evans speaks on viewing figures, the move to Carmarthen, improving quality of programmes and its relationship with the BBC.
He also discusses putting power back into our classrooms, recalling his time as director of the Welsh Government's education department. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Menna Elfyn

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 21:21:00 -0000

Poet Menna Elfyn began writing at the age of 15, struck by the injustice of the Vietnam war and Treweryn Valley.
She talks about her journey as a woman writing in Welsh to acceptance as a serious poet.
And she recalls the stigma of writing about miscarriage in the 1970s and how activism saw her in prison twice. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Lee Waters

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 14:12:52 -0000

Deputy Economy and Transport Minister Lee Waters on how a major part of the Welsh Government’s role is to nourish communities that have been abandoned by economic forces.
The Llanelli AM also recalls his time working as special adviser to Welsh Secretary Ron Davies, and explains why he argued against the M4 relief road. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Dr Sophie Quinney

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 21:21:00 -0000

Dr Sophie Quinney explains how she helped to establish a gender identity service in Wales after a huge unmet need.
She is joined by patient Ben Marriott, who talks about the mental health suffering of young trans people. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Baroness Anita Gale

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 21:21:00 -0000

Baroness Anita Gale of Blaenrhondda speaks on women overcoming prejudice in politics.
She discusses all-women shortlists and twinning, the resistance and why she's optimistic for the future of the Labour party. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Leighton Andrews

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 21:21:00 -0000

The former Labour AM for Rhondda is now an academic at Cardiff University.
He shares his views on what's gone wrong for the Labour party, explains why he left and who he'd back for leader.
He also discusses local government reform in Wales and Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Sian Lewis

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 21:21:00 -0000

Sian Lewis is chief executive of Urdd Gobaith Cymru, the largest Welsh language employer in the third sector.
She explains what the youth movement is doing for Wales, its international strategy and how Welsh is overcoming reluctance and resistance of the past. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Russell Goodway

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Russell Goodway, cabinet member for investment and development at Cardiff Council, tells Martin Shipton how he entered politics "by mistake".
He talks of his vision for Cardiff, on devolution, the abandonment of the Valleys and the Labour Party recovery.
And he addresses the public concerns about Cardiff Bus Station. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Paul Murphy

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Paul Murphy, who helped deliver the Good Friday peace agreement in Northern Ireland, recalls the occasion when he looked round a negotiating room and realised he was the only person present who wasn’t a murderer.
As he publishes his memoir Peacemaker, the former MP for Torfaen speaks about the pressures of his role in bringing Loyalists and Republicans together. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Mick Antoniw

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 21:21:00 -0000

The Labour Assembly Member for Pontypridd speaks on improving the conditions of Welsh workers, constitutional dysfunction and why he sees the future of the UK as a voluntary union of nations if it's to survive. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Fay Jones

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Fay Jones is standing in the marginal seat of Brecon & Radnorshire, which she hopes to regain from Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds to become Wales's first female Conservative MP.
She talks about the Ross England affair and Alun Cairns, working for Prince Charles and the prospects of Welsh farmers post-Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Richard Taylor

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 21:21:00 -0000

From a teenage thief to a born-again Christian pastor who spoke in tongues, Richard Taylor is one of the most unusual General Election candidates in Wales.
Now a disciple of Nigel Farage, he tells Martin Shipton why he's "not your standard politician" as he mounts a challenge to Labour in Blaenau Gwent. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Carole Cadwalladr

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Investigative journalist Carole Cadwalladr tells Martin Shipton how she became tied up in the murky world of information warfare as she uncovered the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal - and the toll it has taken on her own life.
They also talk of her roots in Wales and the state of political accountability. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Alun Davies

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Labour AM Alun Davies has a panic button by his bed because of the toxic political environment created by Brexit.
He tells Martin Shipton why progressive forces need to win a "culture war” against those who have turned Britain into a society not at peace with itself.
He also explains why he has no faith in Jeremy Corbyn to win a General Election. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Vivienne Laing

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Is it ever ok to smack your child? Vivienne Laing, head of policy and public affairs at NSPCC Cymru, discusses the plans to change the law in Wales to end the legal defence of reasonable punishment when parents discipline children. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Jackie Jones

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Labour MEP for Wales Jackie Jones talks about her belief in the European Union, why it's had low esteem in the eyes of many Brits and faced four decades of negative portrayal. She also discusses the apparently contradictory policy of the Labour party on Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Dawn Bowden

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Dawn Bowden, Labour AM for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, talks of her roots in trade unionism, how our NHS is under constant attack and the divided politics of Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Mark Reckless

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Mark Reckless is leader of the Brexit Party group in the National Assembly.
The AM reveals how as Tory MP he worked with Labour to inflict EU-related defeats on David Cameron.
H tells Martin how he became a key figure in the campaign to press for a referendum and how he got the backing of MPs to cut the EU budget. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Mark Cotter QC

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Mark Cotter doesn't conform to the stereotype of a leading barrister. He doesn’t come from a well-heeled background, nor did he attend a fee-paying boarding school.
He has been involved in many high profile cases, and earlier this year successfully defended Oritse Williams, of the boyband JLS, on a rape charge.
He talks about the significance of mobile phones data in criminal cases, legal aid blackspots and how complex fraud trials may become a thing of the past. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Lord Mike German

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Lord Mike German was the first leader of the Lib Dems in the National Assembly, and is now is the party's UK treasurer.
He makes revelations about the early years of the Assembly, speaks on the lessons of coalitions, and recalls the expenses scandal that saw him temporarily step down from his role as deputy First Minister. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Jonathan Edwards

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Recorded from a bustling Westminster, Plaid Cymru's Jonathan Edwards talks the impact of Brexit on Welsh independence and why he feels devolution is under attack.
The MP for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr also tells Martin of a "yearning for change" in Wales and why he believes his party have the strongest candidate for First Minister. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Paul Davies

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 22:23:00 -0000

Paul Davies tells of his journey from Ceredigion bank manager to leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Assembly.
He tells Martin why he's determined to kick Labour out of power, why we should respect the public's wishes to leave the EU, and of his trust in Boris Johnson to lead the country. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Glyn Davies

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Conservative MP for Montgomeryshire, Glyn Davies, discusses the role of the Wales Office, the state of his party and reveals why he won't stand again as MP.
The farmer's son recalls how his father was disappointed when he passed all his O Levels and how the Young Farmers movement changed his life.
He also speaks about learning to speak Welsh in his 50s, running quangos and why a second Brexit referendum would destroy his party. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Tanni Grey-Thompson

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Step inside the world of the House of Lords with Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson in Westminster.
The Paralympian speaks of her Cardiff childhood and the big family sacrifices that have enabled her transition from sport to politics.
She tells Martin why she's fighting for better accessibility on public transport along with welfare reform, and what being Welsh means to her. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Liz Saville Roberts

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 20:21:00 -0000

MP Liz Saville Roberts tells her political story from learning Welsh at Aberystwyth University to becoming the Plaid Cymru's group leader in Parliament.
She talks about the frustrations of "soap opera" Westminster, the prospects of Welsh independence and reveals why she would love to become an AM. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Hefin David

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Hefin David, the Labour AM for Caerphilly, speaks on the power distance between people and politics.
He also discusses the Caerphilly council officers' pay scandal, STV and why we need more AMs in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Toni Schiavone

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Recorded live from the Urdd, Welsh language campaigner Toni Schiavone, of Cymdeithas Yr Iaith, speaks on political identity and the evolution of the movement.
He tells Martin why he believes every child leaving school in Wales should be able to speak Welsh - and why the resistance to extending Welsh language rights in the workplace is greater among politicians than the private sector itself. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Delyth Jewell

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Delyth Jewell became Plaid Cymru AM for South Wales East at the start of 2019, after the tragic death of Steffan Lewis.
She tells Martin about the guilt she felt taking on the job, her work on stalking at Westminster and why she believes Wales will become independent far more quickly than many will have dared to dream of. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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World of lies, with Prof Patrick McGuinness

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 20:21:00 -0000

One of Wales' leading writers discusses his new novel Throw Me to the Wolves, which is loosely based on the treatment of his former teacher Christopher Jefferies, an initial suspect in the murder of Joanna Yeates.
Professor Patrick McGuinness, who lives in Caernarfon, speaks of his upbringing in English boarding schools, and of living in Bucharest under the last communist leader of Romania.
He also talks on the state of nationhood in Wales and the legitimacy of Westminster rule. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Culture of co-operation, with Derek Walker

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 20:21:00 -0000

CEO of Wales Co-operative Centre, Derek Walker, sets out why social enterprises and cooperative business models can be at the centre of a more inclusive economy.

He also discusses the state of the trade union movement, dramatic changes in the workplace and the impact of Brexit.

Derek, who was one of Stonewall's first employees in Wales, also talks about the progress of LGBT equality in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Changing hearts and minds, with Meri Huws

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 20:21:00 -0000

Meri Huws has reached the end of her seven-year tenure as Welsh Language Commissioner.
She looks back at what she's achieved in the role and sets out what must happen next to ensure people in Wales can live their lives through Welsh to the extent that they wish.
She also recalls the activism and civil disobedience of her youth as a member of Cymdeithas yr Iaith, during which she occupied holiday homes. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Liberal Conservatism, with David Melding

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 21:21:00 -0000

David Melding takes Martin through his route to becoming a politician, which included backing the No campaign opposing the creation of the institution he now sits on.
The AM for South Wales Central explains why he doesn't support calls for second Brexit referendum, despite being a passionate Remainer.
He also shares his thoughts on how the 2021 Assembly elections will pan out for Wales's political parties. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Should we be worried about lobbying? With Daran Hill

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Daran Hill is the managing director of public affairs company Postif Politics.
He discusses lobbying in Wales - does it have a bad name? And should it be regulated more closely?
He also speaks on navigating political friendships and the significance of Carl Sargeant's death on Welsh politics. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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A new dawn in politics, with Jane Dodds

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Jane Dodds, who became leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats in 2017, describes her political journey.
She tells Martin why she believes the new Independent Group in Westminster could signal the end of two-party politics, about the challenges of being leader without holding elected office and her optimism for the 2021 Assembly elections. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Renewing the Labour party, with Peter Hain

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Lord Peter Hain talks devolution, Brexit and racism.
The former MP for Neath also warns of the erosion of his party's traditional base, amid the "most disillusioning period in British politics" he's experienced. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Rough and tumble of politics, with Jenny Rathbone

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 21:21:00 -0000

The Labour AM for Cardiff Central tells of her journey to the Assembly via Latin America, a career in journalism and heading up a Sure Start programme for disadvantaged parents.

She speaks on inequality, the Labour party resignations and her controversies; Her criticism of the M4 Relief Road, and her suspension for comments made about the Jewish community.

And the former chair of the All Wales European Programme Monitoring Committee says a no-deal Brexit would be like suicide. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Integrating our communities, with Dr Sibani Roy

Tue, 19 Feb 2019 21:21:00 -0000

When Dr Sibani Roy first moved to North Wales, she didn't feel welcome.
Her experiences led her to found the North Wales Association for Multicultural Integration, which is working to build up a cohesive community.
Dr Roy, a medical ethicist and former mayor of Colywn Bay tells Martin about her mission for integration, rather than assimilation. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Where is the scrutiny? with Jon Owen Jones

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Former Cardiff Central MP Jon Owen Jones speaks about the lack of scrutiny in devolved Wales.
He tells Martin of life in pre-devolution politics and his time spent as a junior minister at the Welsh Office.
He also recalls the Alun Michael and Rhodri Morgan row, and the reasons behind the demise of the Forestry Commission, which he chaired until 2013. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Continuing Dad's legacy, with Jack Sargeant

Tue, 05 Feb 2019 21:21:00 -0000

A year has passed since Jack Sargeant became one of Wales's youngest politicians at the age of 23, in a by-election triggered by the death of his father Carl.
The Welsh Labour AM for Alyn and Deeside tells Martin how he's carrying on the legacy of his father while determined to make his own mark on the job.
He also talks kinder politics, the future of Airbus and "the living nightmare" his family are enduring. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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The faces of genocide, with Mike Joseph

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Mike Joseph's German Jewish parents escaped Europe on the day war broke out in 1939.
The journalist turned genocide historian spent time tracing his relatives but was only able to identify the SS leader who coordinated their killings.
He tells Martin about the fine line between correcting historic injustice while not perpetuating contemporary injustice, as his family battled to reclaim their house in Leipzig.
He also talks about defining anti-semitism and the romantic notion of Israel versus the reality.
You find Mike's website here and his work for Planet Magazine here For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Lack of courage in Welsh politics, with Prof Laura McAllister

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 21:12:00 -0000

The devolution expert and former Wales international tells Martin about her career journey, juggling academia with football.
The professor of public policy at Cardiff University's Wales Governance Centre talks about the biggest weaknesses at the Welsh Assembly - a lack of pluralism and bravery. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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A scapegoat called Europe, with Guto Harri

Tue, 15 Jan 2019 12:14:38 -0000

Journalist and communications consultant Guto Harri lifts the lid on working for Boris Johnson and Rupert Murdoch.
He tells Martin why he's been called a traitor, and about his return to Wales for new S4C politics series Y Byd yn ei Le, as they discuss Brexit and the so-called meaningful vote. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Reviving the Valleys, with Andrew Morgan

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Andrew Morgan explains his journey from bricklayer to leader of one of Wales' biggest councils, Rhondda Cynon Taf.
He talks about coping with austerity, cynicism in politics and the impact of a no-deal Brexit.
The chair of the Cardiff Capital Region also explains how the body hopes to create thousands of new jobs in South Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Persistence in politics, with Ann Clwyd

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 21:21:00 -0000

Ann Clwyd has represented the Cynon Valley as MP since 1984, and was previously MEP for Mid and West Wales..
The Labour politician tells how her early career as a Guardian journalist forged her strong links with South Wales' coal miners, and recalls the day she went underground to save Tower Colliery.
She also tells Martin why she believes Tony Blair's reputation has been unfairly trashed, about her support of the Kurdish cause, and why she's still battling for answers after her husband's death. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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When Wales was radical, with Daryl Leeworthy

Tue, 25 Dec 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Author Daryl Leeworthy talks about the rise and fall of social democracy in South Wales.

He tells Martin that if we're to improve the lives of people in South Wales, we need to recapture the culture of our radical past.

His book Labour Country is published by Parthian Books. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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When justice fails, with Glyn Maddocks

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 21:21:00 -0000

What happens if you are convicted for a crime you didn't commit? Solicitor Glyn Maddocks has spent much of his career representing victims of miscarriages of justice. He tells Martin why the British legal system isn't working and why it must change. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Fixing a sick society, with Ken Skates

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Ken Skates reveals how he overcame self-doubt and anxiety on his journey to become Wales' cabinet secretary for economy and transport, and sets out why he's championing the need to improve society's emotional and mental health.
The AM also talks about the legacy of Carwyn Jones, his hopes for Mark Drakeford and why he didn't proceed with the Circuit of Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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The challenges facing our public bodies, with Adrian Crompton

Tue, 04 Dec 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Adrian Crompton was appointed Auditor General for Wales earlier this year where he oversees the annual audit of some £20bn of taxpayers' cash.
He tells Martin of his rise from a research clerk at the House of Commons, his work to strengthen political institutions around the world, and why he believes Wales needs more AMs. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Leaders, laggards and Wales' cowed culture with Prof Kevin Morgan

Tue, 27 Nov 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Professor Kevin Morgan chaired the Yes for Wales campaign in the 1997 devolution referendum.
The social scientist recalls the dramatic night of the vote, and discusses single party rule and the lack of constructive challenge in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Politics is broken, with Peter Black

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Peter Black is the former AM for South Wales West and now deputy mayor of Swansea.
He tells Martin why he voted in favour of the UK coalition in 2010, how his party needs to rebuild trust and why he thinks UK politics is broken. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Three decades of Parliament with Paul Flynn

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Paul Flynn, the former stalwart MP for Newport West, is interviewed after announcing his intention to step down from Parliament due to ill health.
Martin visited him at home where he was battling arthritis, to reflect on his career and the challenges ahead for Wales. Mr Flynn passed away three months later in February 2019. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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The future of Welsh radio, with Rhuanedd Richards

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Rhuanedd Richards is the new editor of BBC Radio Cymru and Welsh language online service Cymru Fyw.
She tells Martin about the future of the station, which she credits for inspiring her to learn Welsh in the first place.
They also discuss impartiality and the state of journalism in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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The men who refused to fight, with Aled Eirug

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Both Aled Eirug's grandfather and father were conscientious objectors in the First World War and Second World War respectively.
The journalist turned academic tells Martin Shipton why it inspired him to research Wales' anti-war campaigners for new book The Opposition to the Great War in Wales 1914-1918. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Young, 'posh' and political: with Theo Davies-Lewis

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Theo Davies-Lewis is a 20-year-old student at Oxford University, where he re-established the Media Society.
He discusses private education in Wales, finding a political party he can relate with and his campaign for a statue to honour Jim Griffiths in his hometown Llanelli. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Surviving austerity with Steve Thomas

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 17:01:00 -0000

Steve Thomas, chief executive of the Welsh Local Government Association, describes how local services are being decimated by the politics of austerity. He also discusses the long-running reorganisation saga, the calibre of councillors and the scandal at Caerphilly. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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New leaders, new challenges with Prof Roger Awan-Scully

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Political expert Professor Roger Awan-Scully is head of politics and international relations at Cardiff University.
He and Martin discuss how four new party leaders could change the Welsh Assembly - and whether citizen assemblies are the answer to tackling disengagement in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Reconfiguring the UK with Prof John Tomaney

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Professor John Tomaney was chair of the ill-fated 2004 referendum campaign that wanted to establish a regional assembly in the North East of England. He talks regional identity, anti-London sentiment and why we should stop bending over backwards for the tech giants. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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The return of Helen Mary Jones

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 20:21:00 -0000

We're back with series two. In the first episode Martin meets Helen Mary Jones who returns to Cardiff Bay after a seven-year absence.
The Plaid AM talks nationalism, what Plaid Cymru needs to do to win in 2021 and the transgender debate. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Elystan Morgan

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Former MP for Cardiganshire, Elystan Morgan, has been a member of the House of Lords for 37 years.
Martin travels to Westminster to hear about working with Gwynfor Evans, the sleeping giant of Welsh nationhood and why the House of Lords is "wholly ridiculous". For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Prof Steve Martin

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 08:09:00 -0000

The director of the Wales Centre for Public Policy explains how the think tank is advising the Welsh Government on how to improve public services and increase prosperity in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Eluned Morgan

Tue, 17 Jul 2018 20:21:00 -0000

The Labour AM is seeking nominations to succeed Carwyn Jones as party leader and First Minister.
She tells Martin about her chances and talks of her plans as Minister for the Welsh language, gender inequality in politics and Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Dafydd Wigley

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Speaking from Westminster, Lord Dafydd Wigley looks back on his political career.

He talks about Plaid Cymru's future, the impact of Brexit on manufacturing in Wales and House of Lords reform. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Ben Lake

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 20:21:00 -0000

This week Martin travels to Westminster to meet Wales's youngest MP, Ben Lake.
He reveals how he's settling in after his unexpected victory and talks of the challenges facing rural Wales and of a potential rematch with Mark Williams. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Neil Hamilton

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Neil Hamilton talks in-fighting, being public enemy number one and controversy in Cardiff Bay.
The Ukip AM also tells Martin about his Welsh roots, Thatcherism and what Brexit means for the future for his party. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Rob Griffiths

Tue, 19 Jun 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Rob is the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Britain. On this week's podcast he talks about his involvement in the Welsh Socialist Republican Movement and how he came to be arrested on suspicion of planting a bomb in an army recruitment office. He also discusses his time with Plaid Cymru and the problems the Communist Party face electorally. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Tony Juniper and Anne Meikle

Tue, 12 Jun 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Tony is one of the UK's foremost environmental campaigners and Anne is the Head of WWF Cymru. The pair discuss the Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon project, the impact that Brexit will have on environmental policy and how small lifestyle changes can have a huge effect on climate change. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Geraint Talfan-Davies

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 20:21:00 -0000

He's the former controller of BBC Wales who co-founded the Institute of Welsh Affairs and chaired the Remain campaign in Wales.
Geraint Talfan-Davies shares what life was like behind the scenes during the Brexit referendum, talks devolution and tells Martin about his new book Unfinished Business. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Neil McEvoy

Tue, 29 May 2018 20:21:00 -0000

One of Wales's most controversial assembly members, Neil McEvoy talks spin, discrimination and his expulsion from Plaid Cymru.
He also tells Martin about his plans to take on the next First Minister. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Sophie Howe

Tue, 22 May 2018 20:21:00 -0000

The Future Generations Commissioner on her journey from Wales' youngest councillor.
She tells Martin why misogyny should be a hate crime, her fears for the M4 relief road and why a massive programme of cultural change is needed in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Adam Price

Tue, 15 May 2018 20:21:00 -0000

The AM talks spirituality, Marxism and his future vision for Wales.
Martin also questions the former MP on leadership ambition and the wounds of Plaid Cymru. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Cerys Furlong

Tue, 08 May 2018 20:21:00 -0000

Cerys Furlong tells Martin about her journey to chief executive of Chwarae Teg, the charity which supports the economic development of women in Wales. They talk sexual harassment, discrimination and whether gender quotas in politics are a necessary evil. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Debbie Wilcox

Tue, 01 May 2018 20:21:00 -0000

From drama school to frontline politics, this week's guest is Newport council leader Debbie Wilcox.
She tells Martin her thoughts on the Welsh Labour deputy leadership contest, local government reorganisation, Jeremy Corbyn and gender politics. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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16: Stephen Kinnock

Tue, 24 Apr 2018 20:43:07 -0000

Stephen Kinnock talks Russia, the Labour party and the fate of the steel industry.
The Aberavon MP also tells Martin what it's like to grow up watching your father on Spitting Image. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Cynog Dafis

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 20:21:00 -0000

One of the leading figures of Plaid Cymru, the former AM and MP speaks to Martin as he turns 80.
Cynog talks on the remarkable transformation of the Welsh language, the early years of the National Assembly and how his party can move forward. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Aaron Hill

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 20:21:00 -0000

How do we tackle the housing crisis? Aaron Hill, assistant director of policy and public affairs at Community Housing Cymru, speaks on the huge shortage of homes, the creation of new communities and the rise in rough sleeping on Welsh streets. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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13: Steve Howell

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 20:21:00 -0000

The deputy director of Jeremy Corbyn's election campaign in 2017 talks strategy, rallies, attack ads and "the Corbyn surge," as he releases a new book, Game Changer. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Jeff Jones

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 20:21:00 -0000

He may be retired from politics but Jeff Jones remains as outspoken as ever.
This week the former council leader and Labour councillor for 25 years, speaks on corruption and what's wrong with the Valleys.
He also recalls the day a package containing white powder was sent to his office, and tells of how he was cleared of contempt after a High Court trial during the Clwych Inquiry. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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John Osmond

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 21:21:00 -0000

John Osmond is former director of the Institute of Welsh Affairs and was the Western Mail's Welsh Affairs Editor in the 1970s.
He has now written a novel charting Welsh political history.
The first volume of Ten Million Stars Are Burning is set at the centre of the devolution debate in 1973-79. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Leanne Wood

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Leanne Wood is the UK's longest serving party leader, marking six years at the helm of Plaid Cymru this week.
She tells Martin about cutting her political teeth in the Rhondda, on leadership and her party's future.
She also addresses recent controversies, including the departure of Plaid AMs Dafydd Elis-Thomas and Neil McEvoy. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Andrew RT Davies

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Andrew RT Davies is leader of the Welsh Conservatives and a fervent campaigner for Brexit.
He talks to Martin about Welsh farming after the EU, the future of his party, the impact of tax-raising powers and the “politics of envy”. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Gwynoro Jones

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Political commentator Gwynoro Jones was elected MP for Carmarthen in 1970 at the age of 27, defeating the president of Plaid Cymru, Gwynfor Evans.
He tells Martin about the most famous by-election in Welsh history in 1966 and recalls the height of political campaigning in the 1970s before he helped to establish the Social Democratic Party.
They also discuss the future of the Liberal Democrats and, of course, Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Julie Morgan

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Cardiff North AM Julie Morgan is seeking to become the first deputy leader of Welsh Labour.
She speaks on gender balance in politics, teen voters, Jeremy Corbyn and "killing bohemia". For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Jess Blair

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 21:21:00 -0000

On the centenary of the first British women to get the vote, the director of Electoral Reform Society Cymru speaks to Martin about the lack of women in politics, and the democratic deficit in Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Derek Vaughan

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 10:10:00 -0000

Why did Wales vote to leave? The Labour MEP talks Brexit and what the future holds for our nation. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Rachel Banner

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 21:21:00 -0000

Is life better under devolution? Rachel Banner, a key figure in the True Wales campaign which opposed law-making powers in the 2011 referendum, speaks on nationalism, Welsh MPs and whether the Assembly has delivered for Wales. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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David Davies

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 21:21:00 -0000

The MP for Monmouth speaks of his transition from haulier to politician - and why he won't be stifled about his often provocative views on immigration, religion and Brexit. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Lleucu Siencyn

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 21:21:00 -0000

The chief executive of Literature Wales talks about her childhood in a village of poets and the biggest challenges facing literature in Wales today. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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Mark Drakeford

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 21:30:00 -0000

Martin Shipton meets Mark Drakeford.
The Welsh Government minister speaks of his political roots, how he handled the Welsh NHS and on leadership ambition. For information regarding your data privacy, visit acast.com/privacy

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