Scotcast
Scotcast is BBC Radio Scotland's news podcast focusing on Scottish current affairs and stories. Hosted by Martin Geissler, Laura Miller, and Natalie Higgins, it offers analysis and discussion of the week's key events in Scotland. Each episode features reporting and conversation on politics, culture, and issues affecting people across the country.
Episodes
What should happen to BBC Scotland?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘STV boss on costs, cuts and a backlash’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002nkwsThe BBC’s new director general Matt Brittin has said that some channels and radio stations may have to go as the corporation faces a drop in licence fee payers and an audience rapidly moving online. Martin Geissler speaks to TV industry veteran Stuart Cosgrove
Why Scottish Greens waded into the Zionism row
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Meet the new Scottish Green leaders’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002j5l7Ross Greer (pictured) has said Zionism is racist, following a controversial motion approved by the Green Party of England and Wales. We dissect Martin’s BBC Radio Scotland interview with the Scottish Green co-leader. Photo: PA Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news
What on earth is going on at Celtic?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Old Firm sanctions: why football bosses got tough’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030xb8Celtic’s major shareholder Dermot Desmond (pictured) has been targeted by fans critical of the 76-year-old's stewardship of the club. Martin talks to The Herald’s Stephen McGowan and Tino Callaghan, host of the Celtic Exchange podcast, about the Cel
Humza Yousaf on Gaza and life as FM in Sturgeon’s shadow
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Shona Robison on Sturgeon, Murrell and her stalker’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nz42h1Humza Yousaf was the first First Minister to have family stuck in an active war zone while doing the top job. In his new book ‘Under Fire’, he details the four weeks his in-laws were in Gaza, just after the October 7th attack by Hamas on Israel - an
Will Burnham’s big sell work in Scotland? - Politics Show
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: Independence manoeuvres, council shake-ups and political GIFs – Politics Show https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0031vgqNatalie, Phil and former Labour adviser James Matthewson talk about what the end of the triple lock on pensions could mean in Scotland; Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s (pictured) decision to address the future of the union in
What has changed in the way rape cases are heard?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Why are so many men committing sex crimes?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0p90gzqA High Court ruling last week changed how corroboration can be used in sexual offence cases. Many of Scotland's leading criminal defence lawyers believe this could risk the accused’s right to a fair trial. Edith Forrest KC talks to Martin Geissler about wha
The Promise: a government hamstrung by bureaucracy?
The government is failing to deliver ‘The Promise’ - first made by Nicola Sturgeon in 2016 – to support all the 12,000 kids living in care. That’s the verdict of the oversight board in a new report. Its boss tells us about the level of government bureaucracy he faces – and what needs to change. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: s
Glasgow City Council vs the unions - what next?
Glasgow City Council has agreed to pause plans to fire and rehire more than 23,000 members of staff. Martin is joined by journalists Catriona Stewart from the Scotsman and Beth Templeton from the Glasgow Bell about why this story is decades in the making, and how might it be resolved. Photo: PA Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch:
Scientist: ‘We can stop dementia in a generation’
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Weight-loss jabs and the NHS: a 'national disgrace'?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nml1lzAround 90,000 people are living with dementia in Scotland – and about 144,000 people care for them. But how close are we to stopping dementia in its tracks, through testing and preventative treatments? The neuroscientist Professor Tara Spires Jon
Independence manoeuvres, council shake-ups and political GIFs – Politics Show
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Can Michael Marra stick to his indyref2 position?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0031ss7Natalie, Phil and former the Scottish Labour MSP Paul O’Kane talk about John Swinney’s (pictured) Holyrood motion on independence and how the new Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra (pictured) responded – plus the proposed major changes to councils
Sandie Peggie takes on her trade union
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Is the Sandie Peggie ruling discredited?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002njywSandie Peggie (pictured) is taking legal action against her trade union, the Royal College of Nursing, in a dispute over her gender-critical beliefs. Martin talks to the BBC’s Lorna Gordon, who watched the opening day of evidence at the employment tribunal i
The new killer drugs flooding Scotland
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Our problem with drugs’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0029hchScotland’s drug supply is getting more and more dangerous, according to Dr Lorna Nisbet (pictured) of Dundee University's Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science. That’s because a new type of synthetic opioid, called nitazenes, are flooding the market. Five hundred tim
Can Michael Marra stick to his indyref2 position?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘The Scottish Labour leadership interviews’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030b3dMichael Marra (pictured) overcame fellow MSP Joe Fagan to be elected Scottish Labour’s eleventh leader. As MSPs prepare to vote on the principle of self-determination, we ask the Daily Record’s Chris McCall and ex-Labour spokesperson James Matthewson how Ma
'I had brain surgery to deal with chronic pain'
If you're interested in this episode, you may also like: 'What it’s really like in A&E right now' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030yhwCara McKee (pictured) was elected a Scottish Green MSP in May 2026, following decades living with a mysterious chronic pain. She talks to Laura about fighting for a diagnosis for trigeminal neuralgia - and her recovery from brain surgery. Scotcast is the B
Cardiff talks, data centres and Scottish Labour leader – Politics Show
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Does the Cardiff summit boost indyref2 hopes?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0031h0nDavid, Lynsey and former Deputy First Minister Shona Robison talk about John Swinney's meeting with the leaders of Plaid Cymru and Sinn Féin; the data centre debate at Holyrood; and the Scottish Labour leadership race. Photo: PA Scotcast is the BBC’s Sc
Octopus CEO on energy bills, Jackdaw and heavy metal
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘How big is the Jackdaw decision’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m00315syGreg Jackson (pictured) is the chief executive of Octopus Energy, the UK’s biggest domestic energy supplier. He talks to us about household bills, AI data centres and Rammstein. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler.
AI and data centres: what now?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'Octopus CEO on energy bills, Jackdaw and heavy metal' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0031hbwJacob Coxon (pictured), who quit AI giant Anthropic, has said people working on artifical intelligence are“genuinely frightened” by its advances. As MSPs prepare to vote on a Scottish Greeen motion to block the construction of new AI data centres
Does the Cardiff summit boost indyref2 hopes?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'Has Burnham caved on indyref2?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m00315w2The first ministers of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have declared "Westminster's time is coming to an end" at a summit in Cardiff.We speak to The Herald’s Rebecca McCurdy and our Westminster correspondent Paris Gourtsoyannis whether the gathering boosts SNP le
Why are so many young men committing sex crimes?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘How we convicted killer husband and made legal history’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tzhlSexual crimes recorded by Police Scotland are at their highest level since 1971. With the Scottish Government preparing to recognise misogyny as a "distinct form of prejudice and abuse" in law, we speak to Karyn McCluskey (pictured left), forme
Has Burnham caved on indyref2? – Politics Show
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Has Swinney had a good (re)start?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030xdvDavid, Lynsey and former Alba Party adviser Kirk Torrance talk about Andy Burnham’s independence comments; SNP ministers dealing with negative headlines; and Nicola Sturgeon teaming up with Michael Gove to take on Russia.Photo: PAScotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news
Is the housing crisis fuelling anti-immigration tension?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Is the far-right behind the demos on our streets?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002yw1xPolice are treating a fire at a housing association tenement in Glasgow as deliberate amid social media claims it was being renovated for asylum seekers. We ask the BBC’s Chris Clements and Jen Gracie from the Scottish Federation of Housing Associat
What has happened to Scottish education?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘What is school for? - The Education Debate’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0ngbw3lThere has been a decline in attainment in maths and reading in Scotland, according to the Pisa international study of education standards in secondary schools. We ask the BBC's Lucy Adams and former headteacher John McGhee (pictured), Glasgow City Council
How big is the Jackdaw decision?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘What will Burnham do about North Sea oil and gas?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002yvvyThe UK government is set to approve the Jackdaw gas field off the coast of Aberdeen, the BBC understands. We talk to the BBC’s James Cook and Paris Gourtsyannis about the environmental and political significance of allowing the project to go ahead.
Who are the hackers behind the scams that steal your data?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Who hacked M&S’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002d80dJude McCorry (pictured) is chief executive of the Edinburgh-based Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland. She talks to us about 'ethical' hacking and the inside story of the cyber attack on car dealership Arnold Clark in 2022. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is
Has Swinney had a good (re)start? – Politics Show
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Will the NHS shake-up end A&E ‘corridor care’? https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030yhwDavid, Lynsey and Nicola Sturgeon’s former chief of staff Liz Lloyd talk about the Programme for Government; the SNP’s independence strategy; and why First Minister John Swinney (pictured) was concerned about Stephen Flynn's World Cup plans. Photo:
What it’s really like in A&E right now
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘How to fix the NHS – The Health Debate’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0ndvclmIn his Programme for Government, First Minister John Swinney promised 'radical' reform of public services, including cutting the number of health boards. We ask A&E consultant Dr Jayne McLaren, vice-chair of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine in Scotl
Will the SNP’s food price cap happen?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘How we'll avoid a food shortage’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m00300w9Twenty-three organisations have written a joint-letter to John Swinney (pictured), urging the First Minister to scrap plans for a legal cap on some food and drink prices. We ask the BBC’s David Wallace Lockhart and Ewan MacDonald-Russell from the Scottish Retail Cons
Old Firm sanctions: why football bosses got tough
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Who’s to blame for Old Firm bedlam?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sdxpRangers and Celtic will both play a game behind closed doors as punishment for the crowd trouble which marred a Scottish Cup tie between the clubs. The BBC’s Chris McLaughlin explains why the Scottish Football Association (SFA) imposed such a tough penalty. And w
Val and Jo on the 'untold' history behind first novella
If you’re interested in this episode, you might also like: 'Darren McGarvey on modern masculinity and Jason Arday' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030l83Crime writer Val McDermid and Geographer Royal for Scotland Jo Sharp (both pictured) have released their first co-authored book, 'This Door of the Seas'. They talk to us about the overlooked, but significant, period of Scottish history which i
School bags, public spending and social skills – Politics Show
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'Stephen Flynn: I don’t want to be First Minister (yet)' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0p5q38yLynsey talks to the BBC's Andrew Kerr and ex-Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross about the Scottish Government policy, championed by Education Secretary Màiri McAllan (pictured), of giving free school bags to P1 pupils; the spending chall
Why has Lockerbie trial been delayed (again)?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'Why Lockerbie is back in the news' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m00272ktThe trial of a Libyan man over the 1988 Lockerbie bombing has been postponed for a third time after new evidence emerged. The BBC’s David Cowan talks to us about the latest developments in the story. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is host
Darren McGarvey on modern masculinity and Jason Arday
Darren McGarvey (pictured), the author of Poverty Safari and Trauma Industrial Complex, has recorded an audio essay for BBC Radio 4 called 'Confessions of a Performative Male': https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002zhnjAlmost a decade on from MeToo gaining traction, he tells us why he thinks the movement pushed some men towards the so-called manosphere. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast.
Why the BBC made THAT Glasgow documentary
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘Can police stop what’s going on in Glasgow?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0030b0yBBC Disclosure’s Welcome to Glasgow, which documented blatant drug deals and racial violence, has divided opinion over its portrayal of the city. We talk to BBC Scotland's editor of long-form journalism, Shelley Jofre, about criticism of her team's docume
Stephen Flynn: I don’t want to be First Minister (yet)
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'Why Nicola Sturgeon is still making headlines' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m00300qpSNP MSP Stephen Flynn (pictured) was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport by John Swinney in May 2026. He talks to Martin about his political ambitions, Nicola Sturgeon, North Sea oil and gas and his reading habits. Scotcast is
The Scottish Labour leadership interviews
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘The race to replace Sarwar turns sour’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002zrcrMichael Marra (pictured left) and Joe Fagan (right) are vying to succeed Anas Sarwar as Scottish Labour leader. They talk to us about their party’s failures, the route to indyref2 and guilty pleasures. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is
‘Why the data centre doubters are wrong’
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'The revolt against data centres' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nxw722The Scottish Government has tightened regulations on planning permission for new data centres. We speak to Mark Wilson, CEO of ILI Group, the company behind plans for the world's second-largest data centre project in Auchtertool in Fife. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottis
Will the Ferguson shipyard ever build another ferry?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'Who's to blame for our ferry problems?' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002td6kFerguson Marine, the last commercial shipyard on the River Clyde, is to cut about a quarter of its workforce.The BBC’s David Henderson and David Wallace Lockhart explain why the nationalised company is struggling to secure work. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish
Can police stop what’s going on in Glasgow?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: ‘What’s behind the racist disorder on our streets?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002xg9dA BBC Disclosure investigation has documented blatant drug deals and racial violence in an area of central Glasgow identified as a criminal hotspot. We ask Rob Hay, president of the Association of Scottish Police Superintendents, whether Police Scot
Why this Traitors star wants conversion therapy banned
Matty Hyndman (pictured) appeared on the fourth series of the hit BBC reality TV show The Traitors. He tells us how his experiences in a religious community led him to campaign for conversion therapy to be outlawed. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk
Q Manivannan, Ming Yang and Scottish Labour – Politics Show
If you're interested in this episode, you may also like 'Why Nicola Sturgeon is still making headlines': https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m00300qpDavid, Lynsey and Justin Bowie from The Stooshie podcast talk about the controversy which engulfed Scottish Green MSP Q Manivannan (pictured); a major disagreement over Chinese firm Ming Yang’s bid to build a wind turbine factory in the Highlands; and t
How we'll avoid a food shortage
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like 'What really happens on the guga hunt?’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002zrfkThe National Farmers’ Union (NFU) in Scotland is warning that extreme weather is having an increasing impact on our food production. With more than two thirds of England in drought, Professor Derek Stewart (pictured) of the James Hutton Institute in Invergowrie
Why Nicola Sturgeon is still making headlines
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like 'Politics Show: Is Sturgeon turning on Swinney?' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002zsz8.Nicola Sturgeon (pictured) has appeared in front of live audiences to promote the paperback edition of her memoir, Frankly. Graham Spiers and LBC's Iain Dale reflect on their interviews with the former first minister, in which she talked about her feud
The Scot running Britain's biggest nuclear power plant
If you're interested in this episode, you may also like 'What will Burnham do about North Sea oil and gas?' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002yvvyNicola Fauvel (pictured) is the station director of Somerset’s Hinkley Point C, the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK since 1991. She talks to us about starting her career at Torness in East Lothian - and the prospect of a repeat of t
Can the Edinburgh festivals survive much longer?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like: 'Are our festivals for everyone?' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002gg1rThe Edinburgh festivals bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to our capital every year. We talk to the BBC's Pauline McLean, who's covered the festivals for nearly three decades, about its evolution - and the possible impact of the city's new ‘tourist tax’. Scotca
Politics Show: Is Sturgeon turning on Swinney?
If you’re interested in this episode, you might also like 'The race to replace Sarwar turns sour' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002zrcrDavid, Lynsey and Bernard Ponsonby from The Ponsonby and Massie Podcast talk about Nicola Sturgeon (pictured) criticism John Swinney’s (also pictured) Holyrood election campaign, and the Scottish Labour leadership race. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podc
The Elisabeth Ross murder case
Afghan boxer Sharif Ahmadzai, who’s suspected of killing Scottish aid worker Elisabeth Ross (pictured), has appeared in court in Greece. The BBC’s Marina Force and Ben Philip, who's been reporting from Athens, tell us what we have learned about the case since the 38-year-old's body was found in a suitcase in an abandoned building. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted
What really happens on the guga hunt?
If you’re interested in this episode, you might also like The seagull debate: to cull or conserve? https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nwhkpjPermission has been refused for a guga hunt which would have seen hundreds of young seabirds killed on an uninhabited Hebridean island. Martin speaks to the BBC’s David Henderson and local campaigner Murdo MacRitchie about what really goes on when the guga hu
Race to replace Anas Sarwar turns sour
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Scottish Labour slogans and Burnham’s big start’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002zhvgScottish Labour leadership candidate Monica Lennon has said the contest to replace Anas Sarwar (pictured) 'reeks of misogyny'. We ask the BBC’s Lynsey Bews whether Lennon has enough support to be on the ballot alongside fellow contenders Joe Fagan and
The 'porn professor' on AI and extreme content
Law Professor Clare McGlynn (pictured) is fighting against extreme content in the porn industry.Laura Miller talks to Clare, the author of 'Exposed: The Rise of Extreme Porn and How We Fight Back', about how AI is amplifying extreme content, how graphic and violent mainstream porn has become and how the industry is infiltrating the real world.Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episo
Politics Show: Scottish Labour slogans and Burnham’s big start
If you're interested in this episode you might also like Does it matter who leads Scottish Labour? https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002zgc7David finds out how well Lynsey and The Scottish Sun’s Conor Matchett know the Scottish Labour leadership candidates, and the team discuss Andy Burnham’s (pictured) relationship with the Scottish press. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast.
This episo
Are higher tax rates costing us money?
If you’re interested in this episode you might also like https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002yvv1 - The tax guru dumped by Swinney’s government Tax expert Dan Neidle has been making headlines for suggesting that Scotland’s taxing of very high earners could be costing the public purse.Martin speaks to Laurie McFarlane (pictured) from Future Economy Scotland about why that might not be the case, w
Does it matter who leads Scottish Labour?
If you’re interested in this episode you might also like https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0p0pr05Michael Marra (pictured) has announced that he will stand to become leader of the Scottish Labour Party, following Monica Lennon (also pictured), who announced her candidacy on Sunday. Martin is joined by the Daily Record’s political editor Paul Hutcheon and the BBC’s David Wallace Lockhart to discus
Who are Orkney’s rebel monks?
A group of rebel monks in Orkney has been punished by the Catholic Church after appointing a bishop without the approval of Pope Leo XIV (pictured). BBC Orkney’s Rob Flett and Ian Dunn, former editor of The Scottish Catholic magazine, tell us all about the traditionalist order known as The Sons of the Holy Redeemer. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geis
Monica Lennon on replacing Anas Sarwar
If you're interested in this episode, you may also like 'Who'll replace Anas Sarwar?' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0p054d6Scottish Labour's Monica Lennon (pictured) is unexpectedly returning to the Scottish Parliament after Anas Sarwar quit Holyrood for the House of Lords. We ask her whether she's interested in succeeding Sarwar as party leader as well as an MSP. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scotti
Politics Show: Lord Sarwar and Burnham's first week
If you're interested in this episode, you may also like 'Who'll replace Anas Sarwar?' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0p054d6David talks to former Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross and ex-Labour MSP Paul O’Kane about the Scottish Labour leadership race triggered by Anas Sarwar leaving Holyrood for the House of Lords; and Andy Burnham’s first week as Prime Minister. Scotcast is the BBC's
Will Glasgow save the Commonwealth Games?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like 'Were our World Cup woes really Steve Clarke's fault?' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nvm91wThe 2026 Commonwealth Games open in Glasgow on Thursday 23 July, with 3,000 athletes from 74 nations competing across the city. We ask Glasgow 2026 CEO, Phil Batty (pictured), why he believes his slimmed-down, cut-price version of the event can sa
Who’ll replace Anas Sarwar?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Where it went wrong for Anas Sarwar’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nkg6y2Anas Sarwar (pictured) is set to accept a seat in the House of Lords and a role in Andy Burnham’s UK Government. We talk about the likely contenders vying to succeed Sarwar as Scottish Labour leader. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hos
How extreme could our wildfires become?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘GB Energy: We CAN bring bills down’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002x589A large wildfire has been burning in the Cairngorms for almost a week. We ask fire expert Rory Hadden of Edinburgh University and the BBC’s Kevin Keane why wildfires are a growing problem. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Marti
Will Burnham stick to his word on Scotland?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Andy Burnham (in his own words) on indyref2’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0ntvw95Andy Burnham has promised to “rewire” the UK after replacing Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister. The BBC’s Glenn Campbell helps us dissect an interview he did with Burnham in 2022, covering Scottish independence and devolution beyond Holyrood. Scotcast is
Shona Robison on Sturgeon, Murrell and her stalker
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like 'Anne McAlpine: I’m not angry at my stalker' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002r3ctShona Robison was Deputy First Minister and Finance Secretary before standing down as an SNP MSP at the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections. She talks to us about her stalking ordeal; the leadership style of her friend Nicola Sturgeon; and the crimes of her
Politics Show: Who'll be in Burnham's cabinet?
David, Lynsey and Paul Hutcheon from the Planet Holyrood podcast talk about the prospect of Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood (both pictured) making Andy Burnham’s cabinet; the Scottish Government’s decision to axe its Tax Advisory Group; and the pitfalls of politicians discussing football. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode of the Politics Show is hosted by David Wallace Lock
Is the far-right behind the demos on our streets?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like 'A Dundee girl, an axe and a man guilty of assault' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002xqlmWhat is driving the recent spate of street demonstrations in suburbs of Glasgow and beyond? We ask the University of Aberdeen’s Dr Judith Sijsterman, who has been researching far-right movements in Scotland. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcas
What will Burnham do about North Sea oil and gas?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘GB Energy: We CAN bring bills down’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002x589Energy industry bodies and trade unions have written to Labour MPs seeking support for more exploration of North Sea oil and gas. We talk to the BBC’s David Wallace Lockhart and Kevin Keane about the prospective prime minister Andy Burnham’s likely approach to ener
The tax guru dumped by Swinney’s government
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘How to create wealth - The Economy Debate’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0ncnnpgTax expert Dan Neidle (pictured) was a member of the Scottish Government’s Tax Advisory Group (and thought he still was when he first spoke to us). The founder of Tax Policy Associates explains how he discovered John Swinney’s ministers had axed the group –
The revolt against data centres
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Could Scotland tap into the AI goldrush?’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002qgvtThere are plans to build 24 hyperscale data centres across Scotland, many on greenfield sites. Scotcast’s Rebecca Tierney reflects on her visit to Auchtertool, where a proposal for the world’s second biggest data centre has been submitted, and The Guardian’s
Politics Show: Binface v Farage, Rupert Lowe and Carns concedes
David and Paris talk about the Clacton by-election featuring Count Binface and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage (both pictured); Restore Britain leader Rupert Lowe’s Dunblane comments; and the future of Al Carns after the MP finally ruled himself out of the Labour leadership contest. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by David Wallace Lockhart and features the BBC’s P
Are women safe in Scotland’s taxis?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Rape trials: a victim’s view’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tn4yCouncillors in Inverness voted for a rapist taxi driver to keep his operator’s licence. Martin Geissler speaks to the Press and Journal’s Louise Glen about why - and what it says about attitudes towards women’s safety. And Lorna Walker from the Govan Law Centre, who repr
Will Nigel Farage's gamble pay off?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like Malcolm Offord: I can be a Reform First Minister: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002n9d4. Nigel Farage will resign as an MP for Clacton, triggering a by-election which he says he will stand in. Martin Geissler and the BBC’s David Wallace Lockhart dissect the Reform leader’s speech. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast.
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Why are police looking at Yes Scotland’s finances?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Wings over Scotland: why I’m not done with the Peter Murrell case' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002y8xqThe police are looking into a claim that more than £1.5 million was unaccounted for in Yes Scotland’s company accounts. Martin Geissler speaks to the BBC’s Lynsey Bews about who made the claim and what could happen next. Scotcast is t
The seagull debate: to cull or conserve?
Scotland’s first gull ranger has been hired in Eyemouth to improve relations between humans and the birds. Laura Miller is joined by Scotcast’s Rebecca Tierney to hear about her trip to the seaside town, and gull expert Dr Viola Ross-Smith tells Laura why she thinks seagulls are part of the culture wars. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast.Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk
Politics Show: Devolution, defence and Kate Forbes
This week, Andy Burnham (pictured) announced plans to expand the prime minister’s office to Manchester and create a 'No. 10 North' as part of a 'rewired Britain' if he becomes Labour leader. David talks to former SNP MP Stewart McDonald and former Labour adviser James Matthewson about how Burnham’s devolution plans are being received in Scotland, the delayed defence investment plan and Kate Forbes
Will David Goodwillie be prosecuted for rape?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also be interested in ‘Rape trials - a victim’s view’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tn4yThe Crown Office has admitted in court that it was an ‘error of judgement’ not to prosecute the footballer David Goodwillie for rape back in 2011. In 2017, a civil court found Goodwillie and his teammate David Robertson to be rapists and liars. The woman wh
Could tunnels fix our ferry problems?
Shetland’s islands could soon be connected by undersea tunnel after councillors backed the initial plans to replace ageing ferries and link Shetland’s mainland to Yell and Yell to Unst. Martin Geissler speaks to Andy Sloan, executive vice president at engineering firm COWI, and the BBC’s David Henderson about whether tunnels are a viable alternative to Scotland’s whole ferry network. Scotcast is t
Wings Over Scotland: I'm not done with Murrell case
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like 'How Peter Murrell did it': https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002x3ycPro-independence blog Wings Over Scotland first raised questions about SNP finances six years before Peter Murrell (pictured) admitted embezzling more than £400,000 of its funds as chief executiveThe man behind the site, Stuart Campbell, tells us about his role in uncoverin
Were our World Cup woes really Steve Clarke's fault?
If you're interested in this episode, you may also like: 'A pundit's ref rants and a Hampden ban' https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002v9kvHead coach Steve Clarke (pictured) has resigned following Scotland's group stage exit from the 2026 World Cup. We ask the BBC's Chris McLaughlin why another major tournament campaign ended in disappointment - and who is in the frame to succeed Clarke. Scotcast
‘It’s a wild west’ - Rise of the online sperm donors
Is a lack of access to NHS fertility treatments driving single women to find sperm donors on social media? Scotcast’s Rebecca Tierney explores the murky, unregulated world of online sperm donation and former MP Hannah Bardell (pictured) tells us about her own IVF experience. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk
Politics Show: Could Sarwar be next to go?
David and Lynsey talk to ex-Scottish Labour MSP Paul O’Kane about the future of Anas Sarwar’ (pictured) as Andy Burnham closes in on succeeding Sir Keir Starmer; the press ‘pen’ dispute at Holyrood; and more fallout from Peter Murrell’s crimes. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode of the Politics Show is hosted by David Wallace Lockhart and Lynsey Bews. Get in touch: scotcast@
Andy Burnham (in his own words) on indyref2
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Starmer’s off – but can Burnham save Scottish Labour?’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002xzdfAndy Burnham (pictured) looks increasingly likely to be become Prime Minister unopposed after Cabinet minister Darren Jones ruled himself out of the Labour leadership contest. Former Scottish Labour MSP Neil Findlay tells us why he believes Burn
Does anyone know why Peter Murrell did it?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘How Peter Murrell did it’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002x3ycPeter Murrell (pictured) has been sentenced to more than five years in jail after embezzling £400,000 from the SNP. We ask the BBC’s David Henderson, who was in court for the sentencing of the party’s former chief executive, and Glenn Campbell, who has made a documentary ab
Starmer’s off – but can Burnham save Scottish Labour?
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘By-election bonanza – results reaction’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nt0sfvAndy Burnham is expected to become UK prime minister after Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation. We ask former Labour adviser James Mathewson and Jack McConnel, who is campaigning for an independent Scottish Labour party, whether Burnham can reverse the party’s fort
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