BBC Wales political reporter Teleri Glyn Jones and former Plaid Cymru chair Dafydd Trystan discuss Rhun ap Iorwerth's journey from journalism to politics, his love of music, and party transformation. They delve into his community involvement, leadership qualities, and strategic priorities for Welsh independence and healthcare.
Transitioning from journalism to politics, Rhun ap Iorwerth's background influences his leadership style and community connection.
Implementing recommendations from Project Pab, Rhun ap Iorwerth focuses on inclusivity and collaboration to rebuild party confidence.
Deep dives
Rean Ap Yowarth's Background and Career Transition
Rean Ap Yowarth, leader of Plaid Cymru, started his career as a BBC journalist before becoming a member of the Senate. Raised in Wales, he has deep roots in Welsh culture and language. Transitioning from journalism to politics, Rean's background and experiences have shaped his leadership style, emphasizing his connection to the local community and diverse interests beyond politics.
Leadership Challenges and Internal Party Dynamics
When Rean Ap Yowarth took over as leader of Plaid Cymru, he faced internal challenges within the party, including allegations of a toxic culture. Implementing recommendations from the Project Pab report, Rean focused on creating a more inclusive and welcoming party environment. His pragmatic approach and collaborative leadership helped navigate these challenges and rebuild confidence within the party.
Political Stance and Future Vision for Wales
Rean Ap Yowarth shows a strong commitment to Wales, advocating for Welsh independence while also focusing on improving healthcare, transportation, and empowering the Welsh government. Unlike previous leaders who prioritized independence, Rean balances principled beliefs with pragmatic steps towards progress. His leadership style combines a laser-like focus on Wales with a progressive, inclusive approach to achieving political goals.
This bonus episode of Newscast is a profile of the leader of Plaid Cymru, Rhun ap Iorwerth.
Adam is joined by Teleri Glyn Jones, political reporter for BBC Wales, and Dafydd Trystan, former chair of Plaid Cymru, to chronicle Rhun's early life and political career. They discuss his love of music, his move from journalism to politics, and what he has done to transform his party.
This episode is part of a series where Newscast profiles each of the leaders of major political parties.
Rishi Sunak: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0j477c7
Sir Keir Starmer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0j47dw8
John Swinney: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0j4x4rt
Sir Ed Davey: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0j4x9cv
Adrian Ramsay and Carla Denyer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0j5c3k2
Nigel Farage: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0j5c87w
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere
Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Miranda Slade with Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode