Scottish Independence Podcasts

Spotlight on Indy - Autumn Events

Bonus podcast:
In this What's On special episode, we shine a spotlight on four pro-independence events happening across Scotland over just three weeks — from currency and culture to peace and politics, there’s something here for everyone.Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene chat to the some of the event organisers for more behind the scenes details.
🗓️ October 25–26 – Scottish Currency Group Conference 2025Join leading thinkers in Dunfermline as they explore the future of a Scottish currency in an independent Scotland. Expect engaging talks, panel discussions, and actionable insight.👉 Get tickets & details from https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/scottish-currency-group-conference-2025-tickets-1591813259309
🎨 October 31–November 3  (daily from 10.30am - 4.30 pm)– Independent Scottish Art Exhibition & SaleSupport local artists and discover Scotland’s creative spirit at this inspiring exhibition. Featuring stone painting workshops, a range of thematic artworks, and the Yes Slates installation — it’s a celebration of art and activism. 👉 See a selection of the artwork here https://youtu.be/lsfvpNJ-mDY?si=tO-dsVixFhNvGlvC
🕊️ November 1 – Stop the Nuclear Nightmare: Scottish CND ConferenceHosted at Adelaide Place in Glasgow, this vital event confronts the dangers of nuclear weapons and promotes a nuclear-free future for Scotland. 👉 get tickets and details here : https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-scottish-campaign-for-nuclear-disarmament/stop-the-nuclear-nightmare/2025-11-01/10:00/t-qjokody
🏛️ November 8 – Independence Forum for Scotland Autumn Convention Adelaide Place, Glasgow this convention brings together campaigners, strategists, and supporters to plan the next steps for Scotland’s independence movement.   This is a free event, but booking is essential👉 Book now here : https://independenceforum.scot/national-convention/
also 8th November - Revive Coalition conference, Perth concert Hall, find out more and book tickets at https://revive.scot
 

De-fang the Far Right - Change the Voting system!

🎙️ The Temper Trap: Can PR De-Fang Farage? | with Stuart Donald
In this thought-provoking episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene are joined by returning guest and data analyst Stuart Donald to discuss his latest research paper, The Temper Trap. The trio explore how Proportional Representation (PR) can be a powerful tool in limiting the influence of far-right politics, especially compared to the UK’s current First Past the Post (FPTP) electoral system.
Stuart shares compelling data from across Europe, showing how countries with PR systems—despite the presence of far-right parties—have managed to keep extreme immigration and social policies in check. Could Reform UK gaining seats in Holyrood or the Senedd actually reduce the risk of Nigel Farage becoming Prime Minister? Could PR be the key to protecting democracy in the UK?
👉 Tune in to uncover:
Why PR is more effective than FPTP in containing extremism
How European democracies handle far-right parties differently
Whether PR could be the unexpected safeguard against a Farage-led government
Key themes:00:02:01  Background to The Temper Trap00:07:25  Why PR drives higher voter participation00:09:19  How FPTP allows outsiders to drag parties to the right00:14:05  Uk health spending and child mortality is worse than EU average00:17:06   Welfare chauvinism vs welfare nihilism00:20:33  UK populism punishes the poor00:27:10  How PR protects against extremism00:32:52   Why FPTP cannot cope with neo-liberalism00:36:57    Can Holyrood break free from FPTP mentality00:41:07    John Curtice warning - pick the right majority!00:44:53   Dangers of Labour inertia and possible UK routes to PR
Find Stuart's paper The Temper Trap here: https://www.compassonline.org.uk/publications/the-temper-trap-how-proportional-representation-tames-the-populist-right/
The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe!
Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com 
Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes
Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm
If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause.
Music:
Inspired by Kevin MacLeod
Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.
#democracy #electoralreform #holyrood2026

Power, Politics and Possibilities - with Lena Swedlow

"Politics, Power & Possibility – A Conversation with Lena Swedlow from Compass"
In this episode  IndyPodcasters Fiona and Marlene reflect on our visit to A Scottish Spring conference back in April, where we were struck by a standout talk from Lena Swedlow, a researcher at the progressive think tank Compass.
After a busy summer, we finally caught up with Lena for a wide-ranging conversation about the current political landscape in Scotland and the wider  UK, including the deeper causes behind the shifting trends we’re seeing—from growing voter disengagement to the challenges facing progressive movements.
Whether you’re interested in politics, grassroots change, or the future of the UK’s political system, this thoughtful and energising discussion offers fresh insights and hope for what comes next.
key themes:00:03:21   The Class of 201400:08:46    What is Compass?00:11:03    labour's Dilemma00:14:55    How does Democracy deal with Liars?00:16:53    Why are people voting for "Reform" party?00:21:34    Impacts of Inequality00:23:24    Racism in the UK00:26:27   Is Scotland aiming high enough?00:30:57    Is Holyrood pushing the boundaries enough?00:34:00    Labour's response to Palestine Action00:37:41    PR versus FPTP00:48:00    Still optimistic?
Find out more about Compass here - https://compassonline.org.ukFind Stuart Donald's paper here - https://www.compassonline.org.uk/publications/the-temper-trap-how-proportional-representation-tames-the-populist-right/
Find our episode on A Scottish Spring here - https://youtu.be/iXZ7PByGONY
#compassthinktank #lenaswerdlow #progressivepoliticsuk
The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe!
Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com 
Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes
Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm
If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause.
Music:
Inspired by Kevin MacLeod
Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

Philippa Whitford - On the Road Again

This Week on IndyPodcasters: Dr. Philippa Whitford – The Road to Holyrood 2026
Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Philippa Whitford, recently retired SNP MP and long-time advocate for Scottish independence and national wellbeing.
In this episode, we explore:
Campaign strategies ahead of Holyrood 2026
How to effectively counter the rising threat of the far right
Breaking through media barriers in Scotland
The unique, world-leading wellbeing policies of the Scottish Government
With decades of political and medical experience, Dr. Whitford offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and opportunities facing the independence movement today. She reflects on the successes of the Scottish government despite the limitations of Westminster control and highlights the benefits awaiting us when we have the full levers and powers of an independent country.
#scottishindependence #holyrood2026 #drphilippawhitford
The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe!
Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com 
Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes
Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm
If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause.
Music:
Inspired by Kevin MacLeod
Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

Nick Drurie talks to Pensioners for Indy

🎧 Countdown to Holyrood 2026 | Episode: Nick Drurie – Alba Party
In this episode of our Countdown to Holyrood 2026 series, we’re back at the  Bacchus Bar in Glasgow with Nick Drurie from the Alba Party. Hosted by the grassroots group Glasgow Pensioners for Independence, this lively event brings together independence supporters to hear directly from party representatives ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections.
Nick answers tough audience questions on a wide range of topics – from economic policy to the route to independence – offering a unique Alba perspective in this critical political moment.
Key topics:00:02:37  Nick's background00:03:41  Overview of Alba Party Policy00:18:31  Is anybody making prefab housing?00:20:15  What is Alba's policy on land value tax?00:21:28   Thoughts on Holyrood 2026?00:24:40   Thoght son Palestine Action proscription?00:28:23   Alba's position on defying Westminster?00:29:45   how will Alba link cost of living issues with independence?00:33:54    Can we gradually nationalise social housing?00:38:36     Holyrood 26 as plebiscite vs majority of MSPs?00:39:58    Are Alba standing in all constituencies?00:40:28    Why has Kenny McAskill not floated an indy umbrella group?00:41:23    how to avoid a Reform Uk PM in 2029?
🔗 Watch the full series on our YouTube Playlist:  https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmrDKalFQSLAgCYxQweW2RqPSDnYFnRX4&si=aJsi3wdMCdPnw6kA
#scottishindependence #holyrood2026 #albaparty
The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe!
Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com 
Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes
Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm
If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause.
Music:
Inspired by Kevin MacLeodIndustrial Cinematic by Kevin MacLeod
Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.
 

Frankly My Dear...

In this special episode IndyPodcasters Fiona and Marlene take a break from the usual guest format for a more personal chat. After attending the Glasgow book launch of Frankly, Nicola Sturgeon’s much-anticipated memoir, the pair share their candid reflections on the event — and the unexpected TikTok reaction that followed.
From going viral overnight to unpacking the diverse responses the book has sparked — across mainstream UK media, podcasts, and Scottish independence commentators — Fiona and Marlene explore what the media response to the book tells us about Scotland’s political landscape, media narratives, and public sentiment.
Join them for an honest, insightful, and at times surprising look at the ripple effects of one book — and one TikTok.
No guests this week — just real talk from two women navigating politics, culture, and independence in Scotland.
Key themes:
00:02:44 Our night out
00:04:44 Responses to our Tiktok
00:09:32 Social media bubbles
00:11:33 Mainstream media TV interviews
00:16:42 Uk podcasts
00:20:36 Imposter syndrome
00:23:02 Marlene's choice excerpts
00:32:14 Have we learned anything new?
00:34:09 The pro-independence commentariat
00:39:42 Bigger than the book
00:42:47 Unreasonable Expectations
00:46:37 Choosing another path
00:49:28 Final thought
In this special episode  IndyPodcasters Fiona and Marlene take a break from the usual guest format for a more personal chat. After attending the Glasgow book launch of Frankly, Nicola Sturgeon’s much-anticipated memoir, the pair share their candid reflections on the event — and the unexpected TikTok reaction that followed.
From going viral overnight to unpacking the diverse responses the book has sparked — across mainstream UK media, podcasts, and Scottish independence commentators — Fiona and Marlene explore what the media response to the book tells us about Scotland’s political landscape, media narratives, and public sentiment.
Join them for an honest, insightful, and at times surprising look at the ripple effects of one book — and one TikTok.
🎧 No guests this week — just real talk from two women navigating politics, culture, and independence in Scotland.
Key themes:
00:02:44   Our night out00:04:44   Responses to our Tiktok00:09:32  Social media bubbles00:11:33   Mainstream media TV interviews00:16:42   Uk podcasts00:20:36    Imposter syndrome00:23:02    Marlene's choice excerpts00:32:14    Have we learned anything new?00:34:09   The pro-independence commentariat00:39:42   Bigger than the book00:42:47    Unreasonable Expectations00:46:37    Choosing another path00:49:28     Final thought
#scottishindependence #nicolasturgeon #mediareaction
The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe!
Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com 
Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes
Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm
If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause.
Music:
Inspired by Kevin MacLeod

Holyrood is Back in Business

The Scottish Parliament went back to Holyrood last week for the final session before the elections in 2026.  Following the Holyrood debate on Palestine and his very welcome decision to stop giving public money to companies helping to arm Israel in the commission of a genocide,  First Minister John Swinney began today with a speech announcing the publication of the new Scotgov  paper "Your Right to Decide"  This was followed by the first FMQs of the new term.We take a look at some of the stand out moments from these events in this extra Hot Topic episode:Key moments:00:01:24  The Scottish Government's position on Israel00:07:20   latest successes including ending peak rail fares00:11:40   Scotland welcomes refugees00:16:12   Stand up to Racism protest at Knightswood00:19:45    Refugees in Glasgow, Saltires in Maryhill00:24:06    Self determination and the exit process00:32:52    Rallying cry for democracy
Find the new paper Your right to Decide here:https://www.gov.scot/publications/right-decide/
#scottishindependence #democracy #johnswinney
The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe!
Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com 
Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes
Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm
If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause.
Music:
Industiral cinematic and Inspired by Kevin MacLeod
 

Top 10 Takeaways - Danny Dorling at the Festival of Politics

🎙️ Top 10 Takeaways from Professor Danny Dorling at the Festival of Politics | Indypodcasters
In this episode, Fiona and Marlene share their top 10 insights from the 2025 Festival of Politics at Holyrood, where they attended a powerful session with Professor Danny Dorling, Professor of Human Geography at the University of Oxford.
From rising inequality to the politics of child poverty and electoral reform, this episode unpacks the key messages from Dorling’s thought-provoking talk — including a question from Marlene herself!
🔟 Key takeaways include:
00:03:20   How inequality is shaped by family background
00:08:22   Why it’s dangerously easy to scare the public
00:13:38  The Scottish Child Payment as a vital anti-poverty tool
00:19:32  How child poverty is measured — and why it matters
00:21:15  The essential role of care and compassion in policymaking
00:24)06  How Reform UK’s agenda threatens climate progress
00:28:18   Marlene asks a question in Holyrood!
00:33:20  The democratic risk of First Past the Post
00:36:03  Growing disconnect between people and politics
00:38:36  The surprising reasons why violence is decreasing
Whether you're interested in social justice, politics, or progressive change, this episode is packed with insight, analysis, and inspiration.
🎧 Listen now and join the conversation on building a fairer society.
#FestivalOfPolitics #DannyDorling #ScottishPolitics #ChildPoverty #Inequality #ElectoralReform #NetZero #SocialJustice #indypodcasters
The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe!
Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com 
Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes
Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm
If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcastsor choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause.
Music:
Inspired by Kevin MacLeod