We discuss some of the issues grabbing attention in Australia at the moment, including the rise of the One Nation political party in the recent South Australia election; PM Anthony Albanese who has supported a Palestinian state turns up to a mosque and receives a hostile reception; the media ignore a large rally marching through a shopping mall; the Government passes a special tax break law for a radical trans lobby; and why is Australia sending fuel to NZ if they're running short themselves?

Erica stresses the vital importance of a child’s attachment to its parents, arguing that parents should do everything they can to be the ones raising their child – not early childcare, not the government, or others.

She explains that children aged 0-3 years of age are undergoing critical brain-development and in which children need one primary attachment figure—usually the mother, with attachment beginning in utero—to provide physical and emotional safety, stress buffering, and emotion regulation.

Erica notes that a person’s social-emotion system is about 85% developed by age three and that insecure attachment – where parents have not been close to their child during the first 12 months – is clearly linked to a child’s later mental health and resilience problems.

He shares breaking news of an Air Canada plane colliding with a fire truck at LaGuardia airport in New York. Turning to New Zealand politics, he discusses Alfred Ngaro joining New Zealand First arguing it will hurt National’s polling and shift conservative and Pasifika support, with Winston Peters again potentially the kingmaker on election night.

He highlights overseas cases he says threaten religious speech including an Icelandic Catholic priest investigated under conversion-therapy laws and a Finnish MP in court for quoting from the Bible. He criticises the New Zealand Courts leaving X for Bluesky, suggesting political bias and broader judicial overreach. Finally, Simon condemns a Herald article promoting puberty blockers as a prejudiced, inaccurate, puff piece.

Simon celebrates the breaking news that the Scottish parliament has voted against euthanasia, that the Archbishop of Canterbury will now attend the Lords to vote around an extreme abortion amendment (allowing abortion up till birth), and the decision announced by Winston Peters that New Zealand will not endorse parts of a new World Health Organisation (WHO). Simon notes that while we can cooperate globally, we must maintain our own national sovereignty.

He finishes by talking about Family First’s newly drafted App Store Accountability Bill, encouraging politicians to adopt what he sees as a relatively straightforward and sensible approach to addressing under 16 year old accessing apps and social media.

Samuel shares his background as a Christian, youth pastor, husband to Emily, law graduate, and former police prosecutor in Hamilton, plus also having been an infantry reservist in the army.

Samuel discusses his experiences working in MIQ facilities during the Covid period and how he moved into law, eventually becoming a police prosecutor. Simon and he discuss what this prosecutorial roles entails, the insights he gained, and the emotional weight of repeated exposure to violence and sexual offending while still valuing accountability and compassion. Samuel also shares how the Alcohol and Drug Treatment Court works, discussing how it helps both victims and offenders, and says they should be rolled out across the country.

Simon then explores the new and exciting online shows that Samuel his hosting – BiltonTruth and Counter Culture. BiltonTruth applies an unapologetically biblical approach to current issues, while Counter Culture is a panel format where Samuel hosts younger guests to discuss the issues of the day that mainstream media and others do not want to discuss, or only give one narrow perspective.

He criticises an absurd video from the United Nations for International Women’s Day, where the idea of woman is reduced to whatever you want it to be, rendering the idea of ‘woman’ meaningless. Going through it with viewers, he points out the endless stupidity and misrepresentations being promoted.

Simon also notes the death of philosopher Jürgen Habermas – a key figure in the development of critical theory within the Frankfurt School of thoughts, flags a move by the government to liberalise alcohol laws, discusses Iranian women footballers seeking asylum in Australia and condemns the Archbishop of Canterbury for skipping a vote on extending abortion up to birth.

He recaps the March for Life in Auckland and how well the day went, but also mentions recent data that shows that in 2025 there were nearly 18,000 abortions in New Zealand (around 50 per day) —about a 36% increase since the 2020 law change; and a 60% rise in late-term abortions.

Simon wraps up the show by arguing against the suggestion of a recent parliamentary inquiry that New Zealand should appoint an internet commissioner. He warns of government overreach and points to how such roles overseas have had a chilling impact on free speech. He then shares some suggestions around how the government might approach social media access of under 16s, noting that the key is to hold Big Tech accountable and empowering parents.

#familyfirstnz

He critiques the Prime Minister’s uneven messaging for Lent (a short text) versus Ramadan (a longer video), arguing it reflects an unhealthy Western tendency to elevate some groups over others. He then discusses Stats NZ data showing births are below replacement rate, with record-low births to mothers under 25 and increased births to mothers over 35.

He then comments on footage from Auckland’s Big Gay Out showing protesters yelling and trying to storm the stage at supportive politicians, noting the irony of it all.

Simon criticises a European Parliament vote declaring “trans women are women” and raising concerns about impacts on women’s spaces. He also discusses a Canadian mass killing involving a trans-identifying male, focusing on the related mental health issues and criticising mainstream media for describing the shooter as female. He also references a Brazilian case where a veterinary student faces court for statements about sex and pronouns, framing it as coercive enforcement of trans ideology.

Additionally, there’s a detailed discussion about the controversial ‘Baby Samuel’ situation in Queensland, where a botched abortion led to the birth and subsequent death of a 16-week-old baby. Simon notes the lengths some politicians and hospital administrators are going to suppress information about what happened.

[As part of McBlog this year, we're planning to have regular discussions with correspondents in the USA, Australia and UK / Europe, countering some of the narratives that NZers are receiving from left wing news media sources in those countries which are parroted by our NZ media. Think - CNN, BBC, New York Times, The Guardian & Washington Post.]

Simon then spends some time discussing the debate on social media access for under-16s and the role of big tech companies, advocating for greater accountability of such companies and support for parents – while opposing expansion to digital IDs or appointing internet commissioners.

Everyone builds their life on something. The question is, how solid is that foundation? Is it a house of cards with one thoughtful question? Or can it stand the test of time and help you weather the storms of life?

In this new show, inspired by the conclusion to the most famous sermon ever given, Samuel Bilton will help you navigate culture and politics, encouraging you to build your life on Truth.

The conversation also touches on the differences between altruistic and commercial surrogacy, the commodification of human reproduction, and legislative perspectives, including recent European Union and Italian moves to restrict surrogacy.

The discussion emphasises the often-overlooked needs and rights of surrogate mothers and children, challenging the societal norm that prioritises adult desires over ethical considerations and the children themselves.

David Seymour did what any interviewee of the news media needs to do whenever they are interviewed nowadays - take their own recording of the conversation, making it very difficult for the media to manipulate and misrepresent. It got the desired result. Checkmate.

The Family First team will be back in full force next week, with new content and new shows 💥 in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

The Family First team will be back next week with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

Meanwhile our Family First team is getting ready to very soon relaunch with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

This was the 2nd most viewed episode of Family Matters (on YouTube) in 2025.

Meanwhile our Family First team is getting ready to relaunch very soon with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

This was the 3rd most popular McBlog episode (on YouTube) in 2025.

Meanwhile our Family First team is getting ready to very soon relaunch with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

This was the 3rd most viewed episode of Family Matters (on YouTube) in 2025. Meanwhile our Family First team is getting ready to relaunch with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

Meanwhile our Family First team is getting ready to soon relaunch with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

This was the 4th most viewed episode of Family Matters (on YouTube) in 2025. Meanwhile our Family First team is getting ready to relaunch with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

Collective Shout, along with Maggie Dent, recently surveyed over 1,000 teachers and discovered a disturbingly high level of sexual harassment of girls and teachers including from children in kindergarten! The result of increasing access to porn, social media, and malign influencers - the results will shock you!

Meanwhile our Family First team is getting ready to soon relaunch with new content and new shows in what's going to be an action-packed election year.

Dr Kevin Donnelly AM is a leading public intellectual in Australia. He is a frequent commentator and author around education and wider cultural issues. His most recent book is 'Wake Up To Woke It’s Time, Australia'.

Simon O'Connor sits down with him for a wide ranging chat from why groups are trying to push gender ideology into public libraries and schools; why parents rights are being undermined; and why progressives are obsessed with language. This and much more, so well worth tuning in.

They discuss Jesus Christ's humble birth in a manger as a profound act of humility and identification with human vulnerability. Reflecting on the commercialisation of Christmas, John emphasises that the true message of Christmas goes beyond materialism and stresses the importance of recognising Jesus as 'Emmanuel,' or 'God with us.'

The conversation also covers the importance of Advent as a period of preparation, reflection, and repentance leading up to Christmas Day—a theme that often gets overlooked in modern times.

John advises listeners on finding peace during the stressful holiday season, suggesting moments of silence, prayer, and genuine celebration of Jesus’s birth within family traditions. He also criticises the shift in some churches away from holding Christmas services and underscores the importance of maintaining Christ at the centre of Christmas celebrations.

The podcast ends with John and Simon both offering their respective Christmas blessings and encouraging viewers to embrace the peace, grace, and joy that the true Christmas message brings.

A blessed and happy Christmas everyone!

Simon delves into a recent Substack that Craig wrote, where he discusses how, Craig despite the secular world's push against Christianity, there is a notable resurgence of religious faith, particularly among young people, even in places previously thought to be less religious.

They discuss the growth of church attendance, conversions from New Age movements, and unexpected religious revivals in highly secular states like Victoria, Australia. The conversation addresses the challenges of modern isolation and the dehumanizing effects of the contemporary world, emphasizing the church's role in offering hope, community, and a sense of purpose.

Craig and Simon discuss the importance of relationship in a world often focused on isolated self-improvement. Craig emphasises the need for churches to focus on relational ministry, noting that the foyer, where initial interactions occur, is now a critical part of church life.

The episode also reflects on the enduring strength of Christian tradition, the significance of civic friendship, and the foundational role of the church in rebuilding and sustaining society amidst rising political polarisation and societal challenges.

You can find Dr Heilmann's Substack at https://substack.com/@faithmadepublic and his website at https://www.faithmadepublic.com/

Labour, The Greens, and Te Pāti Māori are all up in arms about this bill (no surprises there). The Greens think it would have life-long effects (especially on young people) 😳, and Te Pāti Māori says it would rig the next election.

Do you think these proposed changes make sense?

#familyfirstnz

Harry shares his unique background, being born in Hong Kong to a Filipino mother and a New Zealand father. He explains the concept of 'third culture kids'—individuals who belong to multiple cultures but aren’t fully accepted by any. The discussion delves into Harry's various roles as a writer, producer, actor, and the organiser of the Third Culture Festival, which aims to highlight films that discuss truth, beauty, and universal values.

Harry elaborates on the foundation's mission to use creative mediums like film to bridge cultural divides and promote understanding. He outlines how the festival, March next year, is designed to showcase short films, especially those from young filmmakers, and foster a sense of community and shared cultural appreciation. Additionally, Harry touches upon the impact of AI on filmmaking and the importance of maintaining creative human elements in the arts.

The conversation also explores the need for family-friendly content and traditional values in contemporary media. Harry emphasizes his desire to see the youth of New Zealand flourish in the creative industries without having to leave the country. The interview concludes with a discussion on Harry’s book, 'Living the Bridge,' which further explores the third culture concept and advocates for cultural appreciation over appropriation.

Simon and Harry encourage viewers to participate in the upcoming film festival and celebrate New Zealand's creative talent. You can check out the festival's website at https://www.tcff.online/

The latest research from the Ministry of Health suggests that - actually - the law IS working.

The use of puberty blockers has never been appropriate – it has effectively been the trialling of experimental drugs on children, and this decision is long overdue

According to a report over the weekend, the BBC got busted again – their Newsnight programme accused of editing a Donald Trump speech in a way that made it appear that he made a more explicit call for violent protest ahead of the Capitol riots on January 6 2021.

Yes – a second programme. So the BBC have form. It wasn’t a one off editing mistake or “error of judgement” as they tried to claim when the first example was exposed on the Panorama documentary.

But does our state owned broadcaster TVNZ also owe Trump an apology?

Well, you be the judge. Here’s the evidence.

Bob McCoskrie and Simon O'Connor discuss the boot camp report and the verdict.

Current Police Commissioner Richard Chambers has criticised his predecessors and called it a “cover up” (when questioned on Newstalk ZB).

To make matters even worse it was revealed that police dismissed sex complaints against McSkimming, and then charged the woman over her claims.

Bob and Simon discuss these serious charges against our police chiefs. 

Order the book at Centrist.nz

Jeff Johnston works as an Issues Analyst for Focus on the Family in the USA, writing and teaching about marriage, homosexuality, gender, education, parental rights, religious freedom, and free speech, as well as encouraging and equipping Christians to engage the culture on these issues. He regularly shares his story of struggling as a Christian with same-sex attractions and how God brought healing and change to his life. Before working at Focus on the Family, Jeff served as the Director of Regeneration, a ministry dedicated to providing resources and support for men and women who struggle with sexual and relational brokenness, as well as for their families, friends, and churches. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from San Diego State University with a Bachelor’s in English and a Teaching Credential. Jeff and his wife, Judy, have been married 32 years and have three grown sons.

PILLAR is an acronym, standing for Protecting Individual Life, Liberty, And Rights, and Nathan talks about its mission to restore the pillars of democracy and advocating for individual life, liberty, and rights. He discusses how he and his colleagues will focus on a broad spectrum of civil liberties issues including online privacy and foreign interference. Nathan also discusses a particular case to illustrate their work, which is seeking greater clarity around AI-powered surveillance by police.

Simon and Nathan also have a debate around whether banning social media for under 16 years old is a good idea or not. They discuss the competing needs to protect children, support parents, and ensure privacy.

Despite the complex and often concerning topics, Nathan emphasises optimism and community engagement as driving forces for their advocacy work.

Miriam Grossman MD is board certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. Dr. Grossman’s practice focuses on gender-distressed young people and their parents. She believes that every child is born in the right body, and has been vocal about the capture of her profession by gender ideologues, leading to dangerous and experimental treatments on children and betrayal of parents.

Dawn Hawkins led the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) for 14 years and continues as a senior advisor. NCOSE is the leading organisation exposing the connections between all forms of sexual exploitation, including sex trafficking, prostitution, pornography, and child sexual abuse. Dawn has called out and changed corporate entities facilitating exploitation through the annual Dirty Dozen List, fostered a broad international coalition of 600+ organisations. Her work has sparked change at Google, Hilton Worldwide, Comcast, Walmart, the Department of Defence, Instagram, TikTok, and other influential firms.

Iain elaborates on how age can be verified without disclosing identity, shedding light on different technologies used globally, including on-device solutions that enhance privacy. He explains methods like facial age estimation, hand movement analysis, and more.

Iain also discusses digital IDs as well as the legislative landscape, emphasising a light-handed approach by governments and the potential benefits of private sector solutions. In his conversation with Simon, Iain underscores the importance of age verification in creating safer online environments for children, comparing it to real-world age verification standards, and expressing the hope that New Zealand will adopt advanced, privacy-preserving solutions learned from other countries.

If you are someone currently engaging in the debate around under 16 year olds accessing social media, or the wider discussion of digital IDs, this is the podcast for you.

Amanda works with Canadian Physicians for Life on ethics education and cultural engagement. Determined to protect human life, Amanda’s current priority is preventing euthanasia and encouraging hope through the Dying to Meet You Project. The short films she released received more than 2 million views across social media platforms.

Read our Media Release - https://familyfirst.org.nz/2025/11/03/children-born-alive-after-attempted-abortions-oia/

Kirralie is a passionate wife and mother who challenges our political leaders to protect our children, parents’ rights, women’s spaces and services, sport, the military and education from radical gender ideology. She has faced (and is still facing) multiple court cases for stating that biology is real. Kirralie is part of Binary Australia that promotes biological reality and pushes back against gender ideology.

Simon also talks about his upcoming interview with Helen Joyce about gender ideology, the alarming case of a teenager's suicide linked to early exposure to pornography, and the media's dismissal of violence against Christians in Nigeria.

* Green co-leader Chloe Swarbrick wants to promote the legalisation of cannabis - again! Family First has labeled it the re-litigation of a losing argument from 2020.

* The Ministry of Education have released the draft Years 0-10 Health and Physical Education Learning Area - including the contentious RSE curriculum (Relationships& Sexuality Education). This is now available for wider feedback. The current Health and Physical Education curriculum remains in effect until 1 January 2027. We do a deep-dive into some of the key changes proposed. 

* Big Tech (Meta, TikTok and Snap) have said they will comply with Australia's new law banning social media for young people - and admit that they already know which accounts belong to under-16s. Does that mean that we don't need age verification after all?!

Marina discusses efforts to foster a supportive community where both men and women feel safe to express their grief. She highlights the importance of validating these emotions to facilitate healing. The discussion also touches on the project's expansion into offering recovery programs and the international reach of the initiative. 

A significant focus of the conversation is the upcoming physical memorial garden in South Auckland. The memorial will feature a carving by prisoners, integrating over 20,000 buttons received over the years. This garden aims to create a peaceful space for reflection and acknowledgment of loss. Marina emphasises the importance of compassion and non-judgmental support in helping individuals navigate their complex emotions surrounding abortion. 

This episode underscores the profound impact of the Buttons Project in providing comfort and fostering healing for tens of thousands of people. 

Dawn is critical of New Zealand’s prostitution laws which fully decriminalised all aspects of prostitution, leading to increased exploitation and trafficking, particularly of women and girls. She advocates for the Nordic model, which criminalizes the buyers and profiteers of sex while providing support for the exploited. Dawn emphasises the interconnectedness of these issues and the importance of addressing them holistically.

Simon and Dawn also discuss the grooming and exploitation prevalent in platforms like OnlyFans, where vulnerable individuals are lured with false promises of empowerment and financial gain but are actually subjected to significant exploitation. Dawn recounts ongoing legal battles representing trafficked individuals exploited through such platforms.

Striking a hopeful tone, Dawn notes the increasing awareness among young people about the harms of sexual exploitation and their active role in calling for accountability and change. This episode underscores the fundamental need to recognise and protect human dignity to combat various forms of exploitation and create a safer society.

Alex describes the work of the Ethos Alliance, which helps individuals navigate situations where their fundamental beliefs are challenged, often involving legal assistance. The conversation touches on recent societal events where disagreement has turned violent and the need for a more gracious approach.

As they talk, Simon and Alex emphasise empathy, humility, and viewing opponents as people with dignity. Alex shares insights from Thomas Aquinas and other philosophers about love and truth being intertwined. They critique the impact of social media, which tends to promote outrage over thoughtful discourse, and advocate for face-to-face interactions to foster better understanding.

The discussion also covers practical advice for handling disagreements in professional settings, encouraging a respectful and reflective posture. Alex underscores the value of staying true to one's beliefs while engaging others respectfully and effectively.

Bruce shares his motivations for writing the book, rooted in understanding and explaining the societal changes he has witnessed from his youth to the present. He reflects on how past societies were guided by values and virtues, such as hope and objective truth, while today's society often operates under relativism and civil religion, which he describes as state-imposed morality.

Bruce also discusses the philosophical underpinnings influencing his thoughts, referencing works by C. S. Lewis and Gertrude Himmelfarb. He explains how the loss of Christian-based virtues like self-respect and humility has given rise to modern concepts like self-esteem and victimhood.

The discussion also details Bruce's experiences of cancel culture within educational circles – particularly poignant given Bruce’s work as an educator and leader over many years. Despite these challenges, Bruce emphasises that Christian hope and belief in transcendent truth offer a path to resilience and redemption.

To purchase Bruce’s book, head to Amazon or any local bookstores, or get in touch with us at Family First and we can connect you directly with Bruce.

Tanya and Simon give a detailed analysis of the 'Mood of the Boardroom', a survey of 150 key business leaders in New Zealand. They discuss who is doing well and who is not, with a particular focus on the low rankings of the PM and Minister of Finance. They also discuss the rankings of other coalition party leaders and the Labour Party. The hosts also discuss how media are driving a narrative around the current Party leaders, and their possible replacements.

Simon and Tanya also discuss the hypocrisy of Ashley Bloomfield attending the Scottish Covid inquiry while avoiding the New Zealand equivalent; the farcical conclusion of TVNZ’s review into its reporting; the Green Party’s latest resignation while a Party leader flies Business Class; and why the government seems unable to make a clear decision around recognising Palestine.

He also shares about his and Rachel’s house move and that he’s soon off to Utah to give a talk at a legal symposium. Finally, he shares some quick reflections on the Charlie Kirk memorial service, including one he attended in Mount Maunganui.

Roth sheds light on the emotional and practical challenges of maintaining normalcy while confronting existential threats from groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Emphasizing Israel's democratic values, he defends the nation's military actions as necessary for survival and criticizes the media for biased and inaccurate coverage. 

Simon and Alon also discuss the implications of antisemitism in New Zealand and the broader geopolitical stakes of the conflict. The Ambassador underscores the importance of looking beyond immediate hostilities towards longer-term peace solutions, such as the Abraham Accords. 

The discussion aims to provide a nuanced view of Israel's position and the complexities involved in the conflict.

Please note, this podcast was recorded on the 17th of September.

Buckle up for some intersectionality, critical theory and cognitive dissonance...

Make sure you watch the Full Exclusive Interview with Israel & Maria Folau: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SbLgWKj58U

Here we show you three short excerpts that really spoke volumes about the integrity and boldness that Israel & Maria had, and it shows a side of them that the media didn’t want you to see. A testimony to how they survived a torrid period in their life and marriage.

Simon reflects on the recent shooting of Charlie Kirk, examining media bias and the contrast in reporting styles between different incidents of violence. He also discusses the worrying societal trajectory of increasing violence, urging a moral and thoughtful response. Simon criticises New Zealand media’s coverage of the recent pro-Hamas rallies, including the NZ Herald reactivating it’s dormant X account to explicitly promote the rally.

In July of 2025, Family First CEO Bob McCoskrie sat down with both of them at their home in Brisbane. An exclusive interview with Family First New Zealand to be shared at the annual Forum on the Family.

For the very first time, you get to hear their side of the story.

The conversation delves into the implications of this change, which Ro argues will undermine sex-based rights for women in spaces such as changing rooms, sports, and schools. Ro highlights that this could lead to the erasure of clear biological distinctions, presenting a challenge to women's rights and safety. Simon and Ro discuss how this new proposal conflicts with sex-based rights, and unlike our existing religious freedoms, what the Law Commission proposes comes with compelled speech and coercion because everyone will have to believe what gender activists believe.

The episode also addresses concerns about these recommendations introducing hate speech laws by default, effectively stifling democratic debate and compelling belief in gender ideology. Their discussion includes examples from the United Kingdom and Australia to illustrate potential real-life impacts, and it urges viewers to contact their local MPs to oppose these changes.

Simon then talks international politics, criticising former New Zealand PMs for attending a CCP military parade, pointing out the hypocrisy of Clark and Key speaking about human rights yet happily participating in an event run by an authoritarian regime.

Sam discusses her rich and varied background, sharing how her experiences as a mother, wife, and public figure have shaped her views on education and parenting. The conversation dives deep into the challenges and perceived failures of the traditional educational system in the United States, which Sam argues stifles children's natural curiosity and teaches conformity over independent thinking. She highlights her homeschooling journey with her three children, emphasising the importance of parental involvement in education and the natural self-learning abilities of children when given the right environment.

Sam also touches on societal issues such as the ideological shifts in schools, the push for agendas that include inappropriate content, and the impact of these on family dynamics and children's well-being. She shares personal anecdotes and insights on the liberation and effectiveness of homeschooling in fostering a love for learning and maintaining strong family bonds.

Additionally, Sam discusses her faith journey and the role of spiritual guidance in education and parenting.

To see more of Sam’s work; to purchase her books and hear her podcast, ‪@TheSamSorbo‬ check out:

Website: www.samsorbo.com

www.x.com/TheSamSorbo

www.facebook.com/SamSorbo

www.instagram.com/SamSorbo

www.youtube.com/@TheSamSorbo

Simon also touches on Costco's decision in the U.S. to stop selling the abortion pill Mifepristone and criticises some local church leaders for being vocal on politically comfortable topics like climate change and indigenous rights but largely silent on ethical issues such as euthanasia and abortion. 

John and Simon discuss recent legal cases, including the victory on behalf of Billboard Chris (Chris Elston) who won his case against Australia's eSafety Commissioner who tried to ban him from sharing his view that children's cannot consent to puberty blockers.

John also discusses the case of Dr. Jereth Kok, a medical doctor who has been persecuted for his private social media posts in various issues, including pro-life messages.

Their discussion illustrates the increasing hostility and discrimination against individuals for their faith and beliefs. They also explore various others cases and delve into the issue of politicisation within public institutions. Simon and John discuss the implications of various laws in Australia and New Zealand, emphasising the importance of legal advocacy, public awareness, and courage to push back against oppressive regulations. The podcast concludes by encouraging individuals to stand up for their rights and know there are people and organisations out there to assist.

Paul is also challenging the UK’s Football Association and their ‘Rainbow Laces’ campaign for forcing players and supporters to agree with the campaign and not express any alternative opinions.

It is a fascinating discussion as Paul shares his insights from the legal front line and into the challenges posed by political and ideological influences on public bodies. The discussion also raises the broader implications for democratic principles and explores the potential impact of these legal precedents on similar issues in New Zealand, emphasising the importance of strategic litigation in advocating for human rights.

In this emotionally charged episode of Family Matters, Simon delves into the heavy but crucial topic of mental health struggles faced by police officers in New Zealand. Special guest Allister Rose, recipient of the New Zealand Bravery Star – one of our highest awards - shares his harrowing personal journey of confronting an armed offender and the subsequent PTSD that altered his life. Allister discusses the founding of the Blue Hope Foundation, an organisation dedicated to supporting police officers grappling with mental health issues, from depression to suicidal ideation.

The episode sheds light on the alarming rates of PTSD and suicide within the police force, the systemic challenges in addressing these issues, and the life-saving impact of early intervention and community support through Blue Hope.

This is a topic rarely discussed in New Zealand, but one that needs to be had. Don't miss this compelling conversation that underscores the immense pressures on police officers and the vital need for greater mental health advocacy and support.

To check out more of Blue Hope’s work, check out www.bluehope.co.nz

The theme of this year’s forum is “Courage at a Cultural Tipping Point”, and we have an amazing line-up of brave speakers on key social issues from the US, Canada, Australia and NZ.

And in this episode of McBlog, we talk to Amanda Achtman from Canada and Jeff Johnston from the US.

You are invited!

The theme of this year’s forum is “Courage at a Cultural Tipping Point”, and we have an amazing line-up of brave speakers on key social issues from the US, Canada, Australia and NZ.

And in this episode of McBlog, we talk to Dr Miriam Grossman and hear a short message from Israel & Maria Folau.

You are invited!

The theme of this year’s forum is “Courage at a Cultural Tipping Point”, and we have an amazing line-up of brave speakers on key social issues from the US, Canada, Australia and NZ.

And in this episode of McBlog, we talk to Dawn Hawkins from the US and Kirralie Smith from Australia.

We check out the five most watched episodes on YouTube.

He critiques the New Zealand government's ambiguity in international relations, especially in the context of the IP4 grouping at NATO, and the government’s tepid stance on the US-Israel-Iran dynamics.

On a lighter yet provocative note, he covers the bizarre story of OnlyFans creators in cow sheds, illustrating the extremes of content creation. He recommends viewers check out an earlier podcast of his with Victoria Sinis, a former agent for OnlyFans who exposes the inner workings of this platform.

For anyone passionate about family, culture, and society's moral fabric, this episode is a must-watch for its insightful commentary and engaging discussions.

Tim Beck is Executive Director of Nevada Narcotic Officers Association, retired Narcotics Detective, and Task Force Officer with Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) recently held their 20th Anniversary Conference in Auckland, and Family First were granted access to interview some of the top international experts who were speaking at the conference. (Thanks TDDA!)

In the second of a series, we speak to KEITH GRAVES, a retired Sergeant, Narcotics Detective, SWAT Team member & Drug Recognition Expert Instructor in California.

Keith outlines the 'game plan' and 'marketing' of drug liberalisation (medicinal marijuana, recreational marijuana, all drugs) which is clearly being used in New Zealand by drug proponents. He also exposes the harm of 'drug testing' which actually enables, not deters, and warns us that Mexican drug cartels are already operating in New Zealand offering fentanyl and 'pink' cocaine & other drugs.

Keith offers advice to parents & churches for protecting children from drug use - and explains how harmful decriminalisation would be, and why strong enforceable laws are essential in protecting communities & families.

In the first of a series, retired Special Agent Supervisor (SAS) BOB PENNAL who worked in the Office of the Attorney General, California Department of Justice, and Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement in the California Department of Justice explains why methamphetamine ('P') presents unprecedented dangers to families, communities, and Police. He also explains the folly of 'drug testing', the link between meth and other drugs, and why the drug cartels find New Zealand so attractive. we conclude with some advice for parents and families.

Tune in to understand more of this important proposed piece of legislation as well as the encouraging work Tanya is undertaking to support those at the end of life.