A yuletide treat for music lovers – Welsh singer and Songs of Praise presenter Aled Jones joins Andrew Urquhart for a Christmas-cracker of a festive chat. Discover his fond memories of childhood in Wales, early fame, a varied media career, and serenading royals; and how God has held him through the octave-spanning highs and lows of life.  

Plus a special surprise for Kiwi fans – catch Aled in Godzone next year! 

Join the conversation and text 8168, keyword "Comments"; and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.

A yuletide treat for music lovers &ndash; Welsh singer and Songs of Praise presenter Aled Jones joins Andrew Urquhart for a Christmas-cracker of a festive chat. Discover his fond memories of childhood in Wales, early fame, a varied media career, and serenading royals; and how God has held him through the octave-spanning highs and lows of life.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Plus a special surprise for Kiwi fans &ndash; catch Aled in Godzone next year!&nbsp;
Join the conversation and text 8168, keyword "Comments"; and visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a> for more content.

Fri 19 Dec 2025. Christmas Special with ALED JONES

Join Andrew Urquhart as he continues to wrap up the year with a look at what this season holds for Kiwis - the good, the sad and the beautiful; the inspiration, the despair and the hope.  

The Salvation Army's Lt Col Ian Hutson asks us to spare a thought for those who have found 'no room at the inn', as he reviews New Zealand's latest homelessness data; 

Dave Mann says this most wonderful time of year presents the perfect opportunity to share the reason for the season and the reason for our hope; 

Mental health advocate & public speaker JuliaGrace shares a surprise Christmas gift – a new song, composed whilst living in a real-life nativity scene! 

Text your thoughts to 8168 keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content. 

Join Andrew Urquhart as he continues to wrap up the year with a look at what this season holds for Kiwis - the good, the sad and the beautiful; the inspiration, the despair and the hope.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The Salvation Army's Lt Col Ian Hutson asks us to spare a thought for those who have found 'no room at the inn', as he reviews New Zealand's latest homelessness data;&nbsp;
Dave Mann says this most wonderful time of year presents the perfect opportunity to share the reason for the season and the reason for our hope;&nbsp;
Mental health advocate &amp; public speaker JuliaGrace shares a surprise Christmas gift &ndash; a new song, composed whilst living in a real-life nativity scene!&nbsp;
Text your thoughts to 8168 keyword 'Comments', and visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz/">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a>&nbsp;for more content.&nbsp;

Thu 18 Dec 2025. The Good, the Sad, and the Hopeful.

As 2025 draws to a close, Andrew Urquhart and his guests look back at the significant events and issues that make it a year to remember, including:
Big-and-fast weather damage
Influence of US President Donald Trump
AI's growing impact
Energy generation
Social Impact Bonds
Creeping extension of euthanasia & China's reach in the South Pacific

With businesswoman and commentator Tash McGill, and Director of the Maxim Institute, Tim Wilson.

Join the conversation & text your thoughts to 8168 keyword 'Comments', and 
visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.

As 2025 draws to a close, Andrew Urquhart and his guests look back at the significant events and issues that make it a year to remember, including:
<ul>
<li>Big-and-fast weather damage</li>
<li>Influence of US President Donald Trump</li>
<li>AI's growing impact</li>
<li>Energy generation</li>
<li>Social Impact Bonds</li>
<li>Creeping extension of euthanasia &amp; China's reach in the South Pacific</li>
</ul>
With businesswoman and commentator Tash McGill, and Director of the Maxim Institute, Tim Wilson.
Join the conversation &amp; text your thoughts to 8168 keyword 'Comments', and&nbsp; visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a> for more content.

Wed 17 Dec 2025. The Year in Review.

Can Christmas get busy and stressful? YES! But why, when it's all about the Prince of Peace.

Today, Andrew Urquhart and his guests unwrap the layers of expectation, expense and emotion that can complicate how we mark Christmas festivities and other occasions. Enjoy three conversations that encourage us to return to the Biblical art of grateful celebration when it comes to the sharing of meals, gifts and time this Christmas. With Dr Maja Whitaker (www.laidlaw.ac.nz), John Dennison (www.venn.org.nz) and Kristin Ward (www.parentingplace.nz)

BONUS TIPS: practical ideas for teaching children the importance of a generous heart wrapped with gratitude and good manners.

Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.

Can Christmas get busy and stressful? YES! But why, when it's all about the Prince of Peace.
Today, Andrew Urquhart and his guests unwrap the layers of expectation, expense and emotion that can complicate how we mark Christmas festivities and other occasions. Enjoy three conversations that encourage us to return to the Biblical art of grateful celebration when it comes to the sharing of meals, gifts and time this Christmas. With Dr Maja Whitaker (<a href="https://www.laidlaw.ac.nz">www.laidlaw.ac.nz</a>), John Dennison (<a href="https://www.venn.org.nz">www.venn.org.nz</a>) and Kristin Ward (<a href="https://www.parentingplace.nz">www.parentingplace.nz</a>)
BONUS TIPS: practical ideas for teaching children the importance of a generous heart wrapped with gratitude and good manners.
Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a> for more content.

Tue 16 Dec 2025. Christmas Cheer or Festive Fear? The Art & Heart of Celebrating Well

As the church prepares to celebrate Christ's birth and Jews remember God's faithfulness in protecting their identity, a devastating massacre seems to have blotted out a memorial of light. 

Andrew Urquhart and his guests respond to the tragedy at Australia's Bondi Beach, considering the role of law, civic responsibility, and faith, in combatting hate crime and preserving peace. With leadership mentor John Peachey, FSU Chief Executive Jillaine Heather, and public theologian Dr Craig Heilmann.  

Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.

As the church prepares to celebrate Christ's birth and Jews remember God's faithfulness in protecting their identity, a devastating massacre seems to have blotted out a memorial of light.&nbsp;
Andrew Urquhart and his guests respond to the tragedy at Australia's Bondi Beach, considering the role of law, civic responsibility, and faith, in combatting hate crime and preserving peace. With leadership mentor John Peachey, FSU Chief Executive Jillaine Heather, and public theologian Dr Craig Heilmann.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a> for more content.

Mon 15 Dec 2025. Bondi Massacre: The Light Shines in the Darkness

Identity, tribalism, and good Kiwi coffee. Those topics and plenty more were on the table when the host of Today with Jeff Vines caught up with Andrew Urquhart on his New Zealand visit. Encouraged by a global Gen Z surge back to church, the ONE&All lead pastor also warned that a counter-movement is in force, as extreme ideologies become the new 'religion'.

Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', & visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.
Today with Jeff Vines broadcasts on Rhema, weekdays at 1:35pm. (www.rhema.co.nz).
 https://www.oneandall.church

Identity, tribalism, and good Kiwi coffee. Those topics and plenty more were on the table when the host of Today with Jeff Vines caught up with Andrew Urquhart on his New Zealand visit. Encouraged by a global Gen Z surge back to church, the ONE&amp;All lead pastor also warned that a counter-movement is in force, as extreme ideologies become the new 'religion'.
Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', &amp; visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a> for more content.
<ul>
<li>Today with Jeff Vines broadcasts on Rhema, weekdays at 1:35pm. (www.rhema.co.nz).</li>
<li>&nbsp;https://www.oneandall.church</li>
</ul>

Fri 12 Dec 2025.  A Church for the Times: Jeff Vines on Christianity in a Post-Secular Society

As a Kiwi recently returned from Bethlehem, photo/video-journalist Cole Martin brings back challenging accounts from the West Bank, an area of the Holy Land that has arguably received less media attention than Hamas-controlled Gaza since the 2003 October 7th attacks on Israel.

In this raw and confronting conversation, Cole shares glimpses of what life is like for the Palestinian Christians he has met in West Bank hilltop communities and refugee camps - stories of chaos and confusion; legacy and occupancy; heartbreak and hope; fear, and faith.

As a Kiwi recently returned from Bethlehem, photo/video-journalist Cole Martin brings back challenging accounts from the West Bank, an area of the Holy Land that has arguably received less media attention than Hamas-controlled Gaza since the 2003 October 7th attacks on Israel.
In this raw and confronting conversation, Cole shares glimpses of what life is like for the Palestinian Christians he has met in West Bank hilltop communities and refugee camps - stories of chaos and confusion; legacy and occupancy; heartbreak and hope; fear, and faith.

Thu 11 Dec 2025.  Living With Palestinians: A Kiwi in Bethlehem

All I want for Christmas is... naughty or is it nice? And are we chasing a lifestyle too expensive to resource? 

Tech gadgets and smart devices come with a hefty price tag and significant social cost - whether you do or don't keep up-to-date with the latest/best/shiniest toys.  Andrew Urquhart's guests today weigh up the pros and cons of social media and cutting-edge technology in our digital world.  With commentator Tash McGill, Rhema's head of digital, Justin Smith, and Maxim researcher, Debora Spiekermann (maxim.org.nz) 

Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz  for more content. 

All I want for Christmas is... naughty or is it nice? And are we chasing a lifestyle too expensive to resource?&nbsp;
Tech gadgets and smart devices come with a hefty price tag and significant social cost - whether you do or don't keep up-to-date with the latest/best/shiniest toys.&nbsp; Andrew Urquhart's guests today weigh up the pros and cons of social media and cutting-edge technology in our digital world.&nbsp; With commentator Tash McGill, Rhema's head of digital, Justin Smith, and Maxim researcher, Debora Spiekermann (maxim.org.nz)&nbsp;
Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a>&nbsp; for more content.&nbsp;

Wed 10 Dec 2025. The Cost of Keeping Up with the Joneses.

Are you attempting to stuff too much into the proverbial Christmas stocking? Trying wrap up too many gifts, expenses, events, obligations, tinsel and trimmings.. with too little of you?  

Broadcaster John Cowan shares some sage advice for those feeling more ho-hum rather than ho-ho-ho;
Matt Maslin (laidlaw.ac.nz) brings it back to the most precious gift of all - God with us, a vulnerable baby wrapped in swaddling cloth;
while John Peachey (thethinkfarm.org) has some encouragement for all December babies who may feel like their birthday is overshadowed by Christ's.

Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.

Are you attempting to stuff too much into the proverbial Christmas stocking? Trying wrap up too many gifts, expenses, events, obligations, tinsel and trimmings.. with too little of you? &nbsp;
Broadcaster John Cowan shares some sage advice for those feeling more ho-hum rather than ho-ho-ho; Matt Maslin (laidlaw.ac.nz) brings it back to the most precious gift of all - God with us, a vulnerable baby wrapped in swaddling cloth; while John Peachey (thethinkfarm.org) has some encouragement for all December babies who may feel like their birthday is overshadowed by Christ's.
Text your thoughts to 8168, keyword 'Comments', and visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz" aria-label="Link www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a> for more content.

Tue 9 Dec 2025.  HoHoHo or Ho-Hum? Holding Christmas Joy

Counting down to Christmas it's not crackers that politicians are pulling on, but a power struggle nonetheless. Andrew Urquhart invites his guests to comment on the apparent tug-of-war between local and central government, the two major political parties, individual rights and the common good.

Former MP Simon O'Connor joins Andrew Urquhart to analyse the peformance from the major contenders for next year's election;

Political analyst Dr Bryce Edwards considers how regional councils could be affected by proposed law changes, and what that means for local democracy and community control;

And Nathan Seiuli from civil liberties group PILLAR defines the fine line between someone who leaks data, and a whistleblower, as Brian Young faces ongoing legal action for publishing Health NZ/ Te Whatu Ora information about Covid vaccine deaths. 

Text 8168, keyword "Comments", and visit www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz for more content.

Counting down to Christmas it's not crackers that politicians are pulling on, but a power struggle nonetheless. Andrew Urquhart invites his guests to comment on the apparent tug-of-war between local and central government, the two major political parties, individual rights and the common good.
Former MP Simon O'Connor joins Andrew Urquhart to analyse the peformance from the major contenders for next year's election;
Political analyst Dr Bryce Edwards considers how regional councils could be affected by proposed law changes, and what that means for local democracy and community control;
And Nathan Seiuli from civil liberties group PILLAR defines the fine line between someone who leaks data, and a whistleblower, as Brian Young faces ongoing legal action for publishing Health NZ/ Te Whatu Ora information about Covid vaccine deaths.&nbsp;
Text 8168, keyword "Comments", and visit <a href="https://www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz">www.thoughtsandcomments.co.nz</a> for more content.

Mon 8 Dec 2025. Christmas Crackers, Party Politics, & Covid Whistleblowing

Thoughts & Comments brings social commentary to current issues and a faith perspective to the latest news. Hosted by Andrew Urquhart, a seasoned broadcaster with over three decades of experience. In each episode, Andrew chats with a wide range of guests and experts who bring their wisdom and insight to a huge variety of topics, including politics, psychology, societal trends, theology, geopolitical analysis, social policy, and spirituality. We’ll give you something worth thinking about! Thoughts & Comments with Andrew Urquhart, wherever you get your Podcasts.

Thoughts &amp; Comments brings social commentary to current issues and a faith perspective to the latest news. Hosted by Andrew Urquhart, a seasoned broadcaster with over three decades of experience. In each episode, Andrew chats with a wide range of guests and experts who bring their wisdom and insight to a huge variety of topics, including politics, psychology, societal trends, theology, geopolitical analysis, social policy, and spirituality. We&rsquo;ll give you something worth thinking about! Thoughts &amp; Comments with Andrew Urquhart, wherever you get your Podcasts.

Thoughts & Comments

Justin Smith joins Andrew Urquhart to reflect on the importance of disconnecting from digital devices, sharing their recent experience on Kawau Island with family. They emphasise the value of taking a break from technology to reconnect with loved ones and nature, highlighting the benefits of boredom and the joy of simple activities.

They also discuss the challenges of returning to a digitally connected world, noting that life continues without constant updates. Andrew encourages listeners to embrace periods of disconnection, recognising that it fosters trust in their team and allows for personal growth.

Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit rhema.co.nz.
Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Justin Smith joins Andrew Urquhart to reflect on the importance of disconnecting from digital devices, sharing their recent experience on Kawau Island with family. They emphasise the value of taking a break from technology to reconnect with loved ones and nature, highlighting the benefits of boredom and the joy of simple activities.
They also discuss the challenges of returning to a digitally connected world, noting that life continues without constant updates. Andrew encourages listeners to embrace periods of disconnection, recognising that it fosters trust in their team and allows for personal growth.
Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App. For more from the show, visit <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz">rhema.co.nz</a>. Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

The importance of stepping away from the device. Justin Smith talks digital detoxing

Andrew Urquhart discusses the complexities of global conflicts, particularly focusing on the ongoing situations in Ukraine and Gaza. They highlight that while ceasefires may occur, true peace remains elusive, as evidenced by the fragile state of negotiations and the humanitarian crises that continue to unfold.

They emphasise the importance of understanding the broader implications of these conflicts, including economic impacts and resource shortages, urging listeners to remain cautiously optimistic while recognising the long journey ahead towards genuine peace.
Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.


            For more from the show, visit rhema.co.nz.

            Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Andrew Urquhart discusses the complexities of global conflicts, particularly focusing on the ongoing situations in Ukraine and Gaza. They highlight that while ceasefires may occur, true peace remains elusive, as evidenced by the fragile state of negotiations and the humanitarian crises that continue to unfold.They emphasise the importance of understanding the broader implications of these conflicts, including economic impacts and resource shortages, urging listeners to remain cautiously optimistic while recognising the long journey ahead towards genuine peace.
Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App. 
 For more from the show, visit <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz" target="_blank">rhema.co.nz</a>. 
 Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Tash McGill talks Trumps peace deal and the proposed meeting with Putin

Andrew Urquhart discusses the complex bioethical concerns surrounding surrogacy, particularly in New Zealand. They highlight the risks involved for surrogate mothers, including medical and psychological complications, and the potential for exploitation, even in altruistic arrangements.

Urquhart emphasises the importance of considering the child's perspective and the implications of informed consent in surrogacy agreements. They advocate for a thorough examination of New Zealand's laws in relation to human rights, particularly concerning the rights of both mothers and children, suggesting that society should engage in meaningful conversations about the risks and regulations of surrogacy.
Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.


            For more from the show, visit rhema.co.nz.

            Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Andrew Urquhart discusses the complex bioethical concerns surrounding surrogacy, particularly in New Zealand. They highlight the risks involved for surrogate mothers, including medical and psychological complications, and the potential for exploitation, even in altruistic arrangements.Urquhart emphasises the importance of considering the child's perspective and the implications of informed consent in surrogacy agreements. They advocate for a thorough examination of New Zealand's laws in relation to human rights, particularly concerning the rights of both mothers and children, suggesting that society should engage in meaningful conversations about the risks and regulations of surrogacy.
Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App. 
 For more from the show, visit <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz" target="_blank">rhema.co.nz</a>. 
 Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Surrogacy in NZ and beyond, with Debora Spiekermann from the Maxim Institute

Here you can catch up on all of the latest interviews from Thoughts & Comments with Andrew Urquhart.

Here you can catch up on all of the latest interviews from Thoughts &amp; Comments with Andrew Urquhart.

Thoughts & Comments

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