Podcasts about Tongan

Fatal Shooting at Salt Lake City Meetinghouse The Story: A tragic shooting occurred in the parking lot of a meetinghouse on Redwood Road during a funeral, leaving two men dead and six wounded. Why it's first: It is a violent event on church property involving the death of members. It touches on issues of safety at houses of worship. Key Detail: The victims were part of Utah's Tongan community. The Tongan population in Utah is significant; per the 2020 Census, Utah has the largest Tongan population of any state, with over 18,000 residents identifying as Tongan alone or in combination with other races. Angle: Focus on the tragedy of violence interrupting a “celebration of life” and the community response. Funeral of President Jeffrey R. Holland & Leadership Changes The Story: Following President Holland’s passing in late 2025, his funeral is set, and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf has been named Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve. Why it's important: This is a major shift in the “ecclesiastical org chart.” With President Oaks now President of the Church and Holland passing, the leadership dynamic changes significantly. Visual Aid: Because the hierarchy has shifted rapidly (Nelson passing, then Holland passing), a visual aid helps the audience visualize the new seniority. “The Next Apostle” Speculation The Story: With the vacancy left by President Holland, there is speculation on who President Oaks will call next. Angle: Discuss the Op-Ed suggesting “history making” picks like a Black apostle or someone from a non-traditional background (like a sports coach, though that is unlikely). This is great engagement fodder for listeners. Dissolving the Temple Square Mission The Story: After 30 years, the all-female Temple Square Mission is ending. Sisters from surrounding missions will now rotate in. Why it matters: This is the end of a specific cultural era. The Temple Square sisters were a unique fixture of Church headquarters. Angle: The shift toward “hybrid” missionary work (tours + traditional proselytizing) and the hiring of paid guides to assist. 2026 Mission Leadership Assignments The Story: 188 new mission presidents and companions called; 55 newly created missions. Angle: The sheer volume of new missions indicates the growth or reorganization efforts previously announced by the late President Nelson. Love is Blind Villain “Disowned” The Story: Kacie McIntosh, a cast member on Season 9, claims her LDS family “shunned” her due to her appearance and discussion of sex on the show. Why it matters: This hits the intersection of pop culture and “faith crisis/family dynamics” that resonates with many listeners. Angle: The tension between reality TV fame and conservative religious family values. The “Mysterious” Youth Vote (Data Heavy) The Story: Young Latter-day Saints are identifying less as Republicans, though they still lean conservative on social issues. The Stats: 40% of LDS voters aged 18-29 identify as Republican. 35% identify as Democrat. 25% identify as Independent. Despite the shift in labels, 56% of older Gen Z/Young Millennial members still supported the Republican presidential candidate in 2024. BYU “Hot Mic” Moment The Story: BYU player Therrian Alexander III was caught swearing on a hot mic during the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Angle: A lighthearted but debated topic—the pressure on BYU athletes to represent the “Honor Code” perfectly on national TV versus the reality of high-stakes sports. Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt Update The Story: An update on the aftermath of the abuse case. Kevin Franke has remarried; Ruby is still in prison; Shari Franke has written a memoir. Why it matters: This story gripped the Mormon internet (and the world). The update provides closure on the family’s attempt to heal. The post Fatal Shooting – Dark Horse Candidate – AoN 1001 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

//The Wire//2300Z January 8, 2026////ROUTINE////BLUF: PROTESTS CONTINUE IN MINNEAPOLIS AS GOV. WALZ ISSUES WARNING ORDER TO NATIONAL GUARD TO PREPARE FOR DEPLOYMENT AGAINST FEDERAL FORCES. CIVIL UNREST INTENSIFIES IN TEHRAN. SHOOTING AT LDS CHURCH IN UTAH REVEALS TRANSNATIONAL CRIME SYNDICATE.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE------International Events-Middle East: The situation in Iran is heating up as demonstrations have shifted to riots and a general state of uprising in many cities around the country. This morning internet access to the outside world was cut for most of the country, and flights have allegedly been halted at Tabriz International Airport.Analyst Comment: Right now it's too soon to tell if this is the real-deal, simply due to the extremely significant amount of deception surrounding events in Tehran. A lot of older or misleading footage has circulated, so it's hard to determine what's real and what isn't. The Iranian government shutting off the internet in an attempt to halt communications out of the country is a common tactic, but also strongly indicates that government forces are concerned with the growing level of uprising. How far this will go is anyone's guess, but this will be something to monitor for the next few days.-HomeFront-Minnesota: Overnight various protest events continued in Minneapolis, along with serious developments on the political front. In a press statement yesterday Gov. Tim Walz stated that he has given the WARNO (warning order) for Minnesota National Guard troops to deploy in a policing role, against federal agents. During this press conference, a reporter directly asked Walz if these troops would be used to defend the state from federal forces. In response, Walz stated that Minnesota has "never been at war with the Federal government", before directly stating that these troops will be used to "protect the people of Minnesota" from a "rogue federal agent".Utah: Yesterday evening a mass shooting was reported at an LDS church in Salt Lake City. Local authorities state that a shooting broke out in the parking lot of the LDS church on Redwood Road. At the time of the shooting, a crowd was gathered in the parking lot for a funeral/memorial service being held inside the church. The shooting reportedly took place as a result of mutual combat between two suspects, both of which are currently at large. Concerning casualties, 2x were killed and 6x others wounded during the engagement.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: Shootings involving churches or other places of worship are worth dedicating more attention to, as these are more vulnerable sites that are easy targets for malign actors and terrorists. However, a brief investigation into this shooting indicates that this incident is not what many may think at first.The church itself is a front...this facility is really a safehouse/community center for the Tongan Crip Gang (TCG). The facility is indeed a real LDS church, however this particular ward has been taken over by the gang, which have declared this church (and the surrounding terrain) to be their turf.Photo and video evidence from inside the Church on the night of the shooting confirm a heavy TCG presence, with various Lieutenants and their footsoldiers manning security by all of the doors.Videos of the memorial service confirm nearly everyone was wearing the "colors" of the TCG (which are blue bandanas), with some people even showing up to the service wearing ski masks, drinking alcohol, and flashing gang signs to the police officers in the church after the shooting.Additional investigation indicates that this was not a one-off event. Per the website of this church, services at this facility are only held in the Tongan language. No English services are held at this location, which indicates both the demographic of the alleged congregation and also provi

Cardon Ellis and Brittany Ellis, joined by the charismatic guest Elder TikTok, dive deep into the richness of Polynesian culture, especially its close-knit connection to the LDS (Latter-day Saint) community. The conversation buzzes with stories, laughter, and genuine admiration for Polynesian heritage, celebrity, and community spirit.The episode kicks off with Cardon Ellis chatting about his interactions with Polynesian friends, leading into Elder TikTok explaining the meaning of terms like "Usos" (Samoan for brother) and "Toko" (Tongan for brother) and highlighting the sense of fellowship in Polynesian culture. The hosts and guest celebrate the importance of having "poly friends," describing them as some of the coolest and most loyal people around.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

In Pacific Waves today: Tongan noble Lord Fakafanua elected prime minister; Fiji's first Indo PM says there's still no justice for his people; Auckland Samoan Catholic centre celebrates 30th anniversary. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

'Lea Tupu'anga/Mother Tongue' is a short film directed by Vea Mafile'o. It stars Lucianne Buchanan in the lead role, who also wrote the script. The film has been shown at 20 international film festivals around the world, and now Buchanan's former co-star Jason Momoa is backing its bid for Oscar glory. Actress Luciane Buchanan joins Jesse from Los Angeles

In Pacific Waves today: Pacific news wrap with Christina Persico; Tongan royals lend support for new public library; Pacific sports wrap with Iliesa Tora. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The Eli Katoa concussion story has rattled rugby league. Many have asked how the Tongan international managed to have three sickening head clashes in one afternoon of footy. The NRL has laid the blame at the feet of the trainers and medical staff on the day, but do they need to consider the way head knocks are assessed pre-game and at training? Featured: Myles Houlbrook-Walk, reporter, 730. Featured: Myles Houlbrook-Walk, reporter, 730. Subscribe to the ABC Sport Newsletter

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The consequenses have continued in the wake of one of the scariest sporting moments of the year. Eliesa Katoa's rugby league career and long term health are both in serious jeopardy after the Tongan forward took three separate head knocks in a single game, resulting in a seizure and brain surgery. Sport reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Lisa Owen.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

In this special episode, Casey's business partner and long time friend, Dave Jensen sits down at the MW3 conference with Kalani Sitake, head coach of the BYU Cougars football team. Kalani, reflects on his upbringing sharing stories from his early years, the impact of his multicultural background, and his experiences with legendary figures like BYU coach LaVell Edwards and Nike founder Phil Knight. He discusses how the relationships in his life have shaped his coaching philosophy, focusing on humility, empathy, and genuine connection. With powerful anecdotes of overcoming adversity, Kalani emphasizes the value of kindness and its profound impact on people's lives. Kalani shares his commitment to creating a positive environment where his players grow as athletes and individuals. He discusses his belief that true success is measured not just in victories but in the character and values instilled in those he mentors. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that shows how sports can transform lives and build stronger communities.00:00 | Welcome, MW3 setup & Kalani's intro00:06 | Dave introduces Kalani's journey & coaching career01:46 | What excites Kalani most about BYU football right now02:39 | Visiting Nike, meeting Phil Knight & LaVell Edwards stories03:21 | The voicemail from LaVell that changed a 1–3 season06:15 | Mission call, faith, and early mentoring from LaVell07:19 | Growing up Tongan: divorce, moving, and feeling broken10:11 | A BYU player's hug that “fixed” a nine-year-old kid12:09 | Kindness as a superpower & what really matters more than wins13:44 | Spotting people who are hurting & choosing to reach out15:16 | Family storytelling, heritage, and choosing happiness with little17:21 | Discovering the commandment that changed how he honored his parents18:41 | His father's last day of work & a quiet act of integrity22:06 | Meeting Timberley, raising kids, and the realities of coaching life23:11 | How Timberley prepped him for the BYU head coach interview25:33 | The line that sealed the BYU job (and who really wrote it)27:03 | Lessons from Kyle Whittingham & gratitude to Utah28:34 | Family, rivalry, legacy, and letting love lead29:42 | Closing challenge: use your strengths to lift the world Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Pacific Waves today: Tongan short film under consideration for the Oscars; Lack of human rights groups in the region concerning - report; Rugby World Cup 2027 pool groups released. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

ON TODAYS SHOW: Pants on or off, no context. Azura writes a letter to Tongan Santa. Plus, Hemo Dell joins the show to performance her latest single, Missing You. For more, follow our socials: Instagram Facebook TikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

Where do Pacific and western MEL approaches naturally align, and where do they clash?  Margaret Eastgate, Seraseini Vulavou and ‘Aulola ‘Ake discuss how MEL practice may honour Pacific ideas and ways of knowing in how we design, implement, and evaluate programs – including the concepts of tā (time) and vā (relational space).  This podcast was made possible through SPC's Funding with Intent initiative, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.    Please provide us feedback here: https://forms.office.com/r/yHK0eDhrex     Guests:  Margaret Eastgate, consultant - Pacific Magaret has worked in the development space for over 30 years. She is a Pacific MEL Influencer who has: co-authored the Pacific MEL Capacity Strengthening Rebbilib “For the Pacific, By the Pacific, With the Pacific” which situates MEL; co-curated & co-convened the Inaugural Pacific MEL Convening; and was a Member of the MEL Technical Experts Group that endorsed the Pacific MEL Diploma programme.  Seraseini Vulavou, Performance Quality and Learning (MERLA) Manager for Balance of Power - Fiji Seraseini works in the space of legitimizing the leadership of women – politically, culturally and socially – at a regional level, particularly across Vanuatu, Fiji and Tonga.  She has been a MEL practitioner for more than 10 years having worked in 9 Pacific island countries in the health sector (International Planned Parenthood Federation), as well as UN entities (UN Women, World Food Program and UNICEF) and Oxfam. ‘Aulola ‘Ake, Programme Officer at SPC – Tonga  ‘Aulola is part of a team that supports Pacific Women Lead at SPC's portfolio of grants, providing technical advice, assistance and capacity building, planning, monitoring and reporting at country and regional level. Prior to SPC, she worked for the Australian High Commission Nuku'alofa as Senior Program Manager managing Australia's bilateral investments in governance, gender equality and infrastructure. Her background is international affairs and development holding both a BA and MA in International Relations from Victoria University of Wellington, NZ, and Monash University, Australia. Links: Pacific MEL Rebbilib: https://www.spc.int/updates/blog/2020/08/pacific-mel-rebbilib-report-on-mel-capacity-available-for-download  Pacific MEL Diploma: https://www.spc.int/DigitalLibrary/SPC/Collection/Pacific_MEL  Reflections on tā and vā  by Ōkusitino Māhina: https://i-m-m.org/onewebmedia/IMM_PDFs/2021_imm_archiv/_archiv_sprache/210406_Ta_VA_Moana_by_Mahina_01.pdf  https://www.vamoana.org/news/talanoa-hufanga-he-ako-moe-lotu-dr-okusitino-mahina  Tongan sociospatial relations by Tevita Ka'ili: https://kealakai.byuh.edu/tevita-kaili-presents-new-book-on-tongan-sociospatial-relations  Decolonisation & Locally Led Development (including practical ideas for action): https://acfid.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/ACFID-Decolonisation-and-Locally-Led-Development-Discussion-Paper.pdf  How can aid be decolonized and localized in the Pacific? by Theresa Meki and Jope Tarai: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/dpr.12732  Kakala Research Framework: (PDF) Kakala Research Framework  Kakala_Research.pdf  Kakala Research Framework | SpringerLink  

ON TODAYS SHOW: Our TikTok has been blowing up after Betty-Anne performed Moonlighting, turns out no one knows the lyrics, and this is not the only song we only know the chorus too. Plus, Charlie gave us the update on his audition. Is he the next Brad Pitt? For more, follow our socials: Instagram Facebook TikTokSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

In this episode of Mental Fitness Conversations, host Mundanara Bayles chats with Aaliyah Bula - a proud Tongan, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi woman, athlete and community leader - about what mental fitness means to her. Aaliyah’s journey is one of strength, connection and cultural pride. Aaliyah has always balanced her passion for culture with her drive in sport. She’s played Open Women’s footy with the Redfern All Blacks and continues her rugby league journey with the Canterbury Bulldogs U19s Tarsha Gale squad. In 2025, she joined the Wests Tigers NRLW as a development player. Aaliyah’s insights remind us that mental fitness is about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, staying proud of where you come from and trusting your own path. Whether you’re an athlete, a student or just navigating life’s ups and downs, this episode is a reminder that small actions - like leaning on your mates, practising gratitude and staying connected - can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing. Resources and linksFind out more about Gotcha4Life at www.gotcha4life.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook @gotcha4life and on Instagram @blackmagicwomanpodcast. The Gotcha4Life Mental Fitness Gym App is free and available now. Download it today and start your first mental workout online. Follow Aaliyah on Instagram @aaliyahbula About the podcastHosted by award-winning Indigenous businesswoman and Gotcha4Life Board Member Mundanara Bayles, and produced in partnership with Black Magic Woman, Mental Fitness Conversations centres First Nations voices in powerful conversations about culture, connection and what truly sustains mental fitness. Content noteThis episode includes discussion of mental health challenges which may be confronting. Please practise self-care and reach out if you need support. Services available 24/7 include 13YARN on 13 92 76 and Lifeline on 13 11 14.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

Coming up in Tagata o te Moana: The world's biggest climate talks are underway in Belem, Brazil. A French Polynesian anti-nuclear activist and politician is shocked at reports US President Donald Trump wants nuclear weapons testing to resume. Tongan's go to the polls this week to elect their next parliament. All that and more stories of the week from RNZ Pacific.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

A Kiwi is at the helm of the latest movie in an iconic franchise. The first Predator film was released in 1987, and four films —and two Alien vs Predator films— and 38 years later, Kiwi-born Dimitrius Koloamatangi holds a starring role in ‘Predator: Badlands'. Auditioning for the role of Dek was a bit of a funny process, Koloamatangi revealed to Mike Hosking. “My character is obviously an alien, so he doesn't really speak English,” “So I had to do a take in just like, a made-up language.” While the audition process had Koloamatangi integrating elements of Samoan and Tongan into his own language, for the actual film, he had to learn something entirely new. “When I jumped on, I had thought I could just freestyle and do my own thing, which I was like, ‘oh this is gonna be fantastic, no lines.'” “But then they were like, oh we're gonna set you up with the Zoom call with this guy named Britton who constructed the whole language,” Koloamatangi told Hosking. “I was like, bro, I have to learn a whole made up language? Like, I struggle Samoan somewhat fluently, now I have to learn this? But it was fun.” The Predator franchise is iconic, boasting a massive fanbase, including Koloamatangi's father. “My dad's a massive fan of the first one – we used to watch that one a lot growing up,” he said. “It's pretty surreal to be honest,” “The franchise has such a massive fan base, like you said, spans like 20 years, you know, and, yeah, it's kind of crazy to think that I'm now a part of it.” LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The fallout from Tongan forward Eli Katoa's concussion came hard and fast this week resulting in him being hospitalised and requiring brain surgery. RNZ Sports reporter Jamie Wall talks to the likely repercussions.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

Anthony Maroon is taking over hosting duties this week and is joined by News Corp duo David Riccio & Brent Read! One of the major stories of the year unfolded over the weekend after Tongan and Melbourne Storm star Eli Katoa was rushed to hospital after suffering three head knocks against New Zealand. Both Ready & Riccio vented their frustrations over the handling of the situation as investigations continue. The NRL announced their new anti-tampering rules and both journos try to make sense of a confusing rule. Tony Mestrov and Manly Sea Eagles have parted ways as the club’s messy 2025 continues well into the off season. England are in the spotlight after a poor Ashes and head coach Shaun Wane’s future is in question, as major names have been thrown up to take over. There is more November 1 market updates whilst Maroon has a very hot take on the future of the Gold Coast Titans!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Pacific Waves today: Pacific unemployment rate in NZ highest of any ethnic group; Pacific social media wrap with Tiana Haxton; Tongan rugby league star stable following concussion. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Anthony Maroon is taking over hosting duties this week and is joined by News Corp duo David Riccio & Brent Read! One of the major stories of the year unfolded over the weekend after Tongan and Melbourne Storm star Eli Katoa was rushed to hospital after suffering three head knocks against New Zealand. Both Ready & Riccio vented their frustrations over the handling of the situation as investigations continue. The NRL announced their new anti-tampering rules and both journos try to make sense of a confusing rule. Tony Mestrov and Manly Sea Eagles have parted ways as the club’s messy 2025 continues well into the off season. England are in the spotlight after a poor Ashes and head coach Shaun Wane’s future is in question, as major names have been thrown up to take over. There is more November 1 market updates whilst Maroon has a very hot take on the future of the Gold Coast Titans!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

In Pacific Waves today: PNG landslide kills 21 and leaves many homeless; Pacific region aims for a renewable energy future; NZ confirm 17 measles cases; Tongan rugby league fans dominate Auckland's Eden Park. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

The latest news in the Tongan language(Lea Faka-Tonga) - brought to you by our partner - Pacific Media Network.

The Kiwis are chasing redemption, and the Kiwi Ferns want to get one over the best in the world, when rugby league's Pacific Championships return to Auckland. After a week off, the Kiwis face a Tongan side and the Kiwi Ferns face Australia in another double-header on Sunday. Sports reporter Felicity Reid spoke to Lisa Owen.

Vaimoana Litia Makakaufaki Niumeitolu Khalil is a painter, poet, and educator. She has painted 38 murals all over the world, from California to New York to South Africa and to Palestine. Her murals tell stories of the people who live in the community, reflecting the openness, vulnerability, and generosity of the human spirit. Moana embodies her Tongan ancestry, her chosen family in Palestine, and her deep connection to life and the land. I hope our conversation uplifts your spirits and reminds you to create your own art in whatever way you feel called to.Moana websiteMoana YouTubeMoana IGLeah IG

Send us a textIn this episode of The Unrestricted Podcast, host DreRawka sits down with Ezekiel “The Tongan Kong” Latu, one of Utah's most exciting Heavyweight MMA fighters.Zeke opens up about his latest fight, his current mindset, and his preparation for his upcoming battle at Fierce Fighting Championship 43 during FightCon at the Salt Palace this December.We also dive into:

Send us a textIn this episode of The Unrestricted Podcast, host DreRawka sits down with Ezekiel “The Tongan Kong” Latu, one of Utah's most exciting Heavyweight MMA fighters.Zeke opens up about his latest fight, his current mindset, and his preparation for his upcoming battle at Fierce Fighting Championship 43 during FightCon at the Salt Palace this December.We also dive into: