Talking Wales

Kaiesha Page, Laura Butler, Huw Marshall
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  • POLITICS

Talking Wales is a public affairs podcast rethinking how news about Wales is told — and who it’s really for. We go beyond headlines to explore the stories shaping Welsh life, politics and public debate. With a focus on accuracy, context and lived reality, the podcast aims to reflect the true nature of the news — not just the loudest version of it. Through educational discussion, in-depth analysis and thoughtful conversation, Talking Wales is rooted in public interest journalism. It’s a space for clarity over clickbait, nuance over noise, and curiosity over certainty — helping listeners better understand Wales as it really is.

Episodes

  1. 4D AGO

    A Turning Point for Wales: Reflecting on 2025, Preparing for 2026

    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. Takeaways 2026 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 us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwales Threads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwales TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.wales YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwales Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=all BluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

    1h 10m

  2. 6D AGO

    From Referendum to Reality: Wales' Political Journey

    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. Takeaways Welsh 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 us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwales Threads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwales TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.wales YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwales Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=all BluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

    7 min

  3. 6D AGO

    Russian Interference & 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. Takeaways Foreign 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 us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwales Threads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwales TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.wales YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwales Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=all BluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

    33 min

  4. 6D AGO

    Understanding the Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy

    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. Takeaways The 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 us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwales Threads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwales TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.wales YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwales Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=all BluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

    30 min

  5. 6D AGO

    Why Wales Needed Its Own Parliament

    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. Takeaways Wales 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 us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingwales/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingwales Threads: https://www.threads.com/@talkingwales TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talking.wales YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@talkingwales Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talking-wales/posts/?feedView=all BluSky:https://bsky.app/profile/talking.wales

    6 min

  6. 12/30/2025

    Talking Wales: 05.01.2026

    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.

    2 min

Trailer

About

Talking Wales is a public affairs podcast rethinking how news about Wales is told — and who it’s really for. We go beyond headlines to explore the stories shaping Welsh life, politics and public debate. With a focus on accuracy, context and lived reality, the podcast aims to reflect the true nature of the news — not just the loudest version of it. Through educational discussion, in-depth analysis and thoughtful conversation, Talking Wales is rooted in public interest journalism. It’s a space for clarity over clickbait, nuance over noise, and curiosity over certainty — helping listeners better understand Wales as it really is.

Information

  • Creator
    Kaiesha Page, Laura Butler, Huw Marshall
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Kaiesha Page, Laura Butler, Huw Marshall
  • Show Website
    Talking Wales