Best YesCowal Podcasts (2025)

1
Wha's Like Us? 34:10

Play Pause

6d ago34:10

34:10

Exploring Scotland’s Cultural Heritage | Stuart McHardy & Roger Emmerson at the Independence Forum Scotland Conference In this thought-provoking episode of the Scottish Independence Podcast, we bring you a fascinating session from the recent Independence Forum Scotland conference, featuring historian Stuart McHardy and architect Roger Emmerson. Tog…

1
Palestine - Yes It Is A Genocide 37:11

9d ago37:11

37:11

Fiona and Marlene report from the Palestine march and rally in Edinburgh this weekend, with coverage of the march and the speeches from Elizabeth House, also known as Colonial HQ Key events: 00:07:30 Gathering at St Giles 00:08:06 Chanting in Parliament Square 00:08:38 Mick Napier outlines the purpose of the protest 00:10:36 Into the High Street 00…

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How We Set Up Our Parliament 1:00:06

13d ago1:00:06

1:00:06

🎙️ In this episode, Fiona and Marlene are joined by Esther Roberton, co-ordinator of the Scottish Constitutional Convention, the movement that laid the groundwork for the creation of the Scottish Parliament. Esther reflects on the original aspirations for a new kind of democracy in Scotland and assesses how far those ambitions have been realised ov…

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Sacrificing our Heating Bills and other Good Ideas 52:17

20d ago52:17

52:17

Highlights from the Independence Forum Scotland Conference | June 2025 | In this episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene share selected highlights from the Independence Forum Scotland summer conference, held in June 2025. They explore key moments from a day packed with fresh ideas, thought-provoking questions, and bold visions for Scotland’s futu…

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Independence Forum Scotland - updates from March 25 conference 36:24

23d ago36:24

36:24

A Bonus episode with updates on three important topics discussed at the IFS spring conference in March 2025: 00:01:34 Scotland's Land Reforms - John Hutchison 00:10:00 Scotland's Energy - John Proctor 00:24:50 Scotland's Democracy - Geoff Bush 00:30:55 Comment from the floor 00:34:35 Forward look This Friday's podcast episode will be the Poverty an…

1
Lesley Riddoch on Finland 44:02

27d ago44:02

44:02

🎙️ IndyPodcasters, Fiona and Marlene chat with award-winning journalist and filmmaker Lesley Riddoch about her latest documentary project – a powerful new film exploring why Finland is the happiest country in the world 🇫🇮✨ Scotland has already adopted Finland’s famous Baby Boxes, but what else can we learn? Lesley dives into: 🔹 Finland’s world-reno…

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Women for Independence - On the Road Again 40:38

1M ago40:38

40:38

In this upbeat episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene speak with Fatima Joji, a member of the National Executive of Women for Independence (WFI), about the organisation’s bold relaunch on International Women’s Day . WFI played a vital role in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, building a respected and influential grassroots network of wo…

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Politics in Flux with Colin Fox 1:15:50

1M ago1:15:50

1:15:50

In this timely episode, Glasgow Pensioners for Independence sit down with Colin Fox, national spokesperson for the Scottish Socialist Party, for a wide ranging discussion on Scotland's shifting political landscape. Recorded just ahead of the Hamilton by-election, the conversation explores the future of hte independence movement, the role of left-wi…

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Grangemouth - Asset Stripping Scotland 54:22

2M ago54:22

54:22

In this powerful episode, recorded live at a Yes Glasgow NW event, guest speaker Scott Donohoe from Glasgow Trade Union council delivers a passionate and informative talk on the planned closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery — a decision that threatens thousands of jobs, livelihoods, and the stability of the local community. Scott outlines a detai…

1
Pat Kane in Conversation 55:36

2M ago55:36

55:36

Pat Kane is in conversation with John Drummond on the TNT Show in this week's podcast episode. This is a fascinating and wide ranging conversation covering topics as diverse as the leadership required to respond to climate related migration, the factors which could be better harnessed to promote Scottish independence and the possible post American …

1
Scottish Climate Camp Confronts the Far Right 30:35

2M ago30:35

30:35

A guest episode from Iain Bruce's climate justice show Rising Clyde, this week focussing on the links between the fossil fuel giants and the far right and how they are exploiting the climate crisis for profit and power. Iain's guests are activists Ash and Quan and he begins the episode with footage from a protest outside Glasgow based company Seape…

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Devil in the Detail - ScotGov Plans for 2025-26 51:16

2M ago51:16

51:16

With only 1 year left of the Scottish Government's current term First Minister John Swinney set out his Programme for Government for 2026-26. Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene listened to the main speeches and then went digging into the detail - and we found quite a lot that caught our eye. Our verdict? Mainly highlights but also the occasional lowl…

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A Scottish Spring 59:50

2M ago59:50

59:50

Building a Democracy for the 21st Century On 26th April the Electoral Reform Society held a conference in Edinburgh called A Scottish Spring with a range of excellent speakers covering topics such as the rise of polarisation in democracy, Scottish public opinion, Civic and local democracy in Scotland , engagement and debate. Indypodcasters Fiona an…

1
EU Keeping the Light On for Scotland 54:39

3M ago54:39

54:39

Scotland in Europe: Our journey to the European Parliament! In this special episode of our podcast, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene share our exciting journey to Brussels where they joined a delegation organised by campaign groups Yes for EU and Europe for Scotland. Our mission? To promote Scotland's place in Europe and meet with Members of the Eu…

1
Elbows Up, Scotland 56:27

3M ago56:27

56:27

English Council Elections Fallout: What can Scotland learn? In this episode, Fiona and Marlene are joined by regular guests Bill Ramsay and Isobel Lindsay to discuss the recent English local council election results and the growing momentum behind far right organisation Reform Uk. What do these political shifts mean for Scottish politics? could the…

1
April Round Up 54:53

3M ago54:53

54:53

Join Fiona, Marlene and Lynne as they look back at everything April threw their way - from local activism to international campaigning. In this NOT-a-livestream episode, the trio break down their month, share behind the scenes stories and react to standout moments from Holyrood and Westminster. Subscribe for sharp chat, smart laughs and solid polit…

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Holyrood 2026: What do we want? 1:02:35

3M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

Holyrood 2026: What Makes a Great Manifesto? In this episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene take you to Govan, where the Scottish Independence Convention held a lively and inspiring event on 5th April 2025 to kick-start conversations around the Holyrood 2026 elections. The big question: What do we want to see in party manifestos? We feature insi…

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Standout speech: Wealth, Inequality and Land Reform 21:28

3M ago21:28

21:28

Laurie MacFarlane from Future Economy Scotland gave, in our opinion, the standout speech at the recent Independence Forum for Scotland conference held in Edinburgh on 1st March 2025. Land Reform is one of those key topics where the public mood seems to be for further, faster reform than our politicians seem able to keep up with but the stakes are h…

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SCND Peace and Poetry 55:32

3M ago55:32

55:32

Peace and Poetry : Scottish CND's Annual Poetry fundraiser event, Glasgow 2025 Join us for an inspirational podcast episode recorded live at the Scottish CND's Annual Peace and Poetry Event in Glasgow - a celebration of art, activism and reflections on war, peace and hope for the future. This special fundraiser brought together an exceptional line-…

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Scotland the Colony - with Prof Alf Baird 49:11

4M ago49:11

49:11

Audio version of the recent TNT show where host John Drummond interviews Professor Alf Baird about the concept of Scotland as a colony of England in the light of the recent application to the UN to add Scotland to the list of colonised countries. You can watch the video version of the TNT show here https://www.youtube.com/live/zoX3jbDb710?si=BTTYqV…

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The Union Dividend - Debunked 56:27

4M ago56:27

56:27

In this thought provoking interview, Marlene and Fiona sit down with data analyst Stuart Donald to discuss his fascinating research on the "union dividend". Stuart's research delves into the origins of the Barnett formula and even further back to pre war economics to unpack the myths and misconceptions about the financial benefits Scotland supposed…

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Labour's Poll Tax Moment? 1:01:20

4M ago1:01:20

1:01:20

Join Fiona, Marlene, and regular guest Lynne as they dive into the most pressing topics in Scottish and Westminster politics. From Labour's disastrous welfare cuts and the ongoing battle over PIP (Personal Independence Payments) to the Scottish Tories desperate attempts to run down Ferguson Marine, the trio offers insightful analysis and opinion. T…

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Reclaiming Our Clyde 42:12

4M ago42:12

42:12

It's Time to Reclaim Our Clyde! Join Fiona and Marlene's discussion with passionate SCND activists David Kelly and David Peutherer as we talk about the vital need to rid the River Clyde of nuclear weapons. We dive into the engaging new campaign "It's Time to Reclaim Our Clyde" urging young people to find out more and take action for a nuclear free …

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Events, Dear Boy, Events 51:45

5M ago51:45

51:45

In this insightful discussion, Fiona and Marlene are joined by expert commentators Bill Ramsay and Isobel Lindsay to analyse the latest developments from the White House. They explore the growing implications for Ukraine, the evolving UK-US relationship, and the global push for increased defence spending. As tensions rise, the panel delves into whe…

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Memories of the Miners' Strike 40 years on 1:09:05

5M ago1:09:05

1:09:05

Miners' Strike 40th Anniversary | Alex Shanks & Richie Venton at Jim McVicar Memorial Lecture In this episode, Marlene and Fiona attend the Scottish Socialist Party's Jim McVicar Memorial Lecture to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 1984-85 Miners' Strike. Featuring Alex Shanks, a young miner during the strike, and Richie Venton, author of Cl…

1
A Positive Outlook 57:49

5M ago57:49

57:49

Join Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene and guests Lynne Dougan and Jacqui Jensen as we mull over the latest Scottish political snippets from Holyrood, Westminster and beyond. Themes include: 00:01:19 - The power of the positive outlook 00:09:47 - Outside the Labour Party conference 00:15:51 - Findlay's Barlinnie Paradise 00:19:05 - Pam Ghosal's Wild…

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Grangemouth - An Unjust Transition? 36:56

5M ago36:56

36:56

A bonus podcast episode from Rising Clyde, the Scottish Climate Justice Show. Host Iain Bruce discusses the potentially unjust transition of workers at Grangemouth following the announcement that over 400 redundancy notices are being issued by refinery operator Petroineos. Iain's guests are Rosie Hampton of Friends of the Earth Scotland and Ewan Gi…

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Will Gaza Arise from the Ashes? 56:42

5M ago56:42

56:42

With special guest Dr Philippa Whitford, retired surgeon and former SNP MP. Trump's astonishing proposal to turn Gaza into a waterfront resort may have dominated the headlines, but the real story is the ongoing plight of the people of Gaza as the fragile ceasefire takes effect. Dr Philippa has lived and worked in Gaza and here she offers her unique…

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Claiming Our Rights 57:54

6M ago57:54

57:54

With guests Andy Anderson and Leah Gunn Barratt of Respect Scottish Sovereignty we take a closer look at the International Covenant for Civil and Political Rights ( ICCPR) and what incorporation of these rights into Scots Law could mean to the Scottish people. Key themes include: 00:01:00 Overview of Human Rights legislation 00:03:30 Why should we …

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Memoirs 1:09:16

6M ago1:09:16

1:09:16

Ringwood Publishing is an independent Scottish publisher based in Glasgow. In January they hosted an even called Reflections and Revelations: Our Memoirs Event showcasing several of their authors who have written books based on Memoir. Fiona and Marlene were delighted to attend and record the event. Speakers and readings are: 00:01:04 Mary McCabe, …

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Let Them Eat Cake 52:02

6M ago52:02

52:02

This month's livestream of clips and chat covering a range of topics including: 00:00:42 Charles visits an Alloa foodbank 00:05:41 Colin Fox's prediction comes true 00:08:00 Dave Doogan calls out Starmer 00:10:16 Labour MP Brian Leishman finds out he has NO influence 00:14:43 The power of "devalation" 00:18:29 The cost of Scotgov mitigation 00:24:1…

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Great British Debt - All A Big Con? 54:18

6M ago54:18

54:18

Our guest this week is William Thomson from the Scotonomics show. In this episode we challenge William with our questions. He tackles those and shares his own thoughts on independence, Modern Monetary Theory and the economic situation in general. Main topics: 00:02:00 Q1: Can Scotland afford to be independent? 00:06:38 Q2: But what about inflation?…

1
A Taste of Burns 40:17

6M ago40:17

40:17

Burns Night 2025 is fast approaching and we've been out and about collecting poetry and stories to create a celebratory podcast episode. Featuring: 00:02:17 To A Louse - performed by Marlene Halliday 00:05:36 Oh Tibbie, I hae Seen the Day - performed by Susi Briggs 00:08:07 Tibbie's Reply - written and performed by Susi Briggs 00:11:31 The Flyting …

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The Big Land Question 1:15:50

7M ago1:15:50

1:15:50

Fiona and Marlene share their highlights from the Big Land Question conference. In November the Revive Coalition held their biggest conference yet bringing together organisations and individuals with a shared interest in Scotland's land. Who owns it? What do they do with it? Is there a better way? These, and many more questions were covered on the …

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Respect Scottish Sovereignty 46:46

7M ago46:46

46:46

Greater Glasgow Pensioners for Independence invited guest speaker Andy Anderson to share some new ideas for a strategy to overcome the barriers created by Westminster and the UK supreme court using the UN Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Andy's website is https://respectscottishsovereignty.scot You can find out more about the Covenant here h…

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The Myth of the Union Dividend 50:19

7M ago50:19

50:19

TNT Show host John Drummond interviews data analytics expert Stuart Donald about the insights we can gain from his research into electoral systems, Brexit and the Scottish Constitutional question. Topics include: 00:02:06 Is the Union killing people? 00:05:28 Inequality and the FPTP system 00:07:41 The Myth of the Union Dividend 00:16:17 Slapstick …

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Scottish Budget Scorecard 50:47

7M ago50:47

50:47

As Westminster's Labour government continues to unravel, discarding election promises with careless abandon, we take a look at the Scottish government's budget proposals for 2025/26. Beginning with John Swinney setting out his vision for Scotland and followed by Shona Robison's presentation of the draft Scottish budget we consider how well the two …

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Owning Our Futures Q and A 48:27

7M ago48:27

48:27

The Owning Our Futures event held in Edinburgh in October was a great opportunity to see our quest for independence in the context of other nations and regions across Europe who share similar aims. The delegates took part in three Q and A panels and brought their wisdom, experience and fresh thinking to the table. Organised by the Scottish Independ…

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Owning Our Futures - Highlights 51:56

8M ago51:56

51:56

The Owning Our Futures conference was held in Edinburgh on 5th October 2024 and brought together representatives Autonomy Movements and Self Government campaigners from 14 nations and regions in Europe. Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene were there - these are our highlights! 00:02:09 Intro: Greg McCarra SIC 00:02:27 Basque: Begotxu Olaizola Elordi 0…

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Telling Scotland's Stories with Mairi Sutherland 42:34

8M ago42:34

42:34

We meet independent film maker Mairi Sutherland who has been making independent Scottish films for more than 20 years. Mairi has credits as Producer, Director, Screen Writer including the award winning film Red Rose, about the life and mysterious early death of Robert Burns at the age of 37. Mairi tells us about the making of the film back in 2004 …

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Tell Us Something Positive! 53:30

8M ago53:30

53:30

Audio replay of our end of November livestream where we played clips and chatted about topics including: 00:02:48 Patrick Harvie at FMQs on Trump's election 00:04:46 John Swinney's reply 00:08:45 Mary Trump on buyer's regret 00:14:43 Led By Donkeys on Elon Musk 00:22:15 Janey Godley voiceover Bearcubs 00:24:34 Edward Mountain asks about the A9 at F…

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12 insights from the Scottish Currency Group conference 56:05

8M ago56:05

56:05

The Scottish currency Group conference took place over 2 days in Dunfermline on 21st and 22nd September 2024. We were there for both days of fascinating presentations from an impressive and internationally diverse group of experts in their various fields. In this podcast, Fiona and Marlene share 12 of the insights we gained from the discussions. We…

1
Trump, NATO and the Bomb 57:22

8M ago57:22

57:22

Bonus episode - our latest Hot Topic episode looks at Trump's victory in the US elections. Fiona and Marlene are joined in the studio by Bill Ramsay and Isobel Lindsay to share our immediate reactions to Trump's victory and consider the likely impact on the situation in Ukraine, for NATO and for the wider world. The Scottish Independence Podcasts t…

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The Road to a Scottish Currency - Dr Tim Rideout 34:19

9M ago34:19

34:19

A bonus episode from the recent Scottish Currency Group conference. Dr Tim Rideout explains the process for introducing a Scottish Currency and the likely timescales for implementation. You can find out more from his website here https://www.reservebank.scot/ The Scottish Currency Group is also active on Facebook. The Scottish Independence Podcasts…

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Conter Conference Highlights 57:07

9M ago57:07

57:07

One of the events marking 10 years since the Scottish Independence Referendum was a conference "2014 - 2024 Scottish Independence and the British State 10 Years On". The event was held on 14th September at Glasgow Caledonian University and was organised by the group Conter. Part One of our coverage of that conference was an interview with Liam McLa…

1
A Country Not A County 49:25

9M ago49:25

49:25

Podcast version of this month's Livestream chat with Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene and our guest Lynne. Topics covered include: Alex Salmond's death Council of Regions and Nations Winter fuel payments GB Energy Scottish Visa proposals and various other snippets that caught our attention this month. You can also watch the video version on our You…

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A Disruptive force? With Liam McLaughlan 55:51

9M ago55:51

55:51

We chat to Scottish independence campaigner Liam McLaughlan who we first came across when he stood as Scottish Socialist Party candidate for Glasgow East in the General election. Liam is a veteran of the legendary Radical Independence Campaign in 2014 and last month he gave the opening speech at a conference organised by left wing anti establishmen…

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1820 Radical Uprising - Part 2: Trials and Retribution 41:07

10M ago41:07

41:07

Second of our two part mini series on the 1820 Radical Uprising. Part 1 covers the events leading up to the Uprising and the Radical War which followed. You can find it here https://scottishindypod.scot/scottish-history/1820-radical-uprising/ and we would recommend you listen to that episode first. This episode covers the courtroom drama of the tri…

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Building A Local Scotland 1:10:48

10M ago1:10:48

1:10:48

Scotland has practically the largest units of local government in the world. An average Scottish council has 175,000 people compared to an average across the EU of 10,000. There seems to be widespread consensus that something needs to be done about the over-centralisation of Scotland, but little agreement about what that should be. A group of indiv…

1
Ten Years On 48:52

10M ago48:52

48:52

In this month's livestream Indypodcasters Marlene, Fiona and Lynne reflect on the Believe in Scotland 10th anniversary rally and other indy events, whether marches have had their day, the Labour party's disastrous first 2 months in power and how the the SNP is adjusting to life as a minority government. With clips, chat and listeners comments, we h…