Scottish Independence Podcasts
YesCowal Podcasts 400 episodes Nov 6, 2026
A podcast discussing Scottish independence and other issues relevant to Scotland. It covers political, social, and cultural topics tied to the independence movement. Listeners can visit the show's website and join its Discord community for further discussion.
Episodes
A Lifeline for the Islands with Euan Smith
From exploring alternative models that put island communities first to the vital role of Gaelic in Scottish politics, Euan brings fresh energy to conversations that often get sidelined in current politics.
key topics:
00:00:43 Background to the SNP Conference motion
00:07:01 Comparing the Norwegian model
00:12:13 How Public Service Obligation (PSO) works
00:17:19 The real impact of service w
Scotland's Right to Decide: We analyse the Holyrood debate
Join us as we take closer look at one of Scotland's most pivotal conversations: the nation's right to choose its own future. In this episode, we're taking an analytical approach to the recent Holyrood debate on the motion "Scotland is a nation that has a right to decide its own future" which took place on 22nd September 2026.
We highlighting the strongest arguments from both sides while honestly
Prospectus for a New State
"To win independence we need to persuade more voters". Commonweal's research shows conclusively that one of the biggest barriers for those voters is that they don't think we have a properly worked-out plan for what happens if they vote YES. We do not have this prospectus – and we need it.
In this episdode we welcome Commonweal's Craig Dalzell back onto the podcast to tell us about Commonweal's maj
The Case for a Scottish Currency...Your Questions Answered
Scottish Currency Group Conference 2026 | Expert Panel & Live Q&A
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW — Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear from an expert panel and make your voice heard. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/scottish-currency-group-conference-2026-the-final-report-tickets-1990728596822
24th October | Dunfermline, Scotland
On 24th October in Dunfermline, the Scottish Currency Grou
Living Rent: Communities Taking Direct Action
We chat with Grace Stevens from the Glasgow branch of Living Rent, Scotland's tenants and community union. We cover current campaigns, tactics and aspirations for a society bult, led by and organised for the people.
Key topics discussed:
00:00:40 What is Living Rent?
00:02:13 How could the Tourist Tax levy be used to benefit everybody
00:15:25 Catching Transport Minister Stephen Flynn's att
Data Centres: Fracking All Over Again?
Data Centres in Scotland: Gold Rush or Bubble?
We join campaign group Pensioners for Independence at the Bacchus Bar in Glasgow to find out more. Dr Craig Dalzell, Head of Policy at the Scottish Common Weal, takes on the most pressing question facing Scotland's energy-rich future and unpacks the real economics behind the hype: Can Scotland afford to pass this up? Or are we about to cover our la
Celtic Alliance: The Cardiff Agreement
The Scottish and Welsh parliamentary elections in May this year resulted in three of the four nations of the UK electing First Ministers who support self determination for their people.
This week a meeting took place in Cardiff between the party leaders of the SNP, Plaid Cymru and Sinn Fein to explore areas of common cause in which they can co-operate to further their respective agendas. They t
Get Glasgow Moving
What does the future of public transport in Glasgow really look like? In this episode, we chat with Susie Wood from the Get Glasgow Moving campaign to explore one of Scotland's most ambitious transport initiatives.
We look at:
The campaign's manifesto — what are they fighting for, and what's their vision for Glasgow's commuters?
The franchising framework — what d opportunities does this model pres
Nuclear Power - Back in Fashion?
Pensioners for Independence hosts guest speaker Gordon Morgan, Commonweal energy researcher, who delivers an insightful presentation on nuclear energy generation and the broader nuclear industry.
In this episode, Gordon explores the history of nuclear power and changing attitudes within the Uk political sphere . Following his presentation, Gordon engages directly with our audience, answering a wid
Nuclear Policy and Peace Advocacy with Former MSP Bill Kidd
Join us for an enlightening discussion with Bill Kidd, former Scottish MSP and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, as he shares his expertise on one of the most pressing global issues: nuclear weapons and energy policy.
In this Pensioners for Independence meeting, Bill draws on his extensive background in peace activism to explore the complex intersections of nuclear weapons proliferation, energy security,
The Third Nuclear Age
81 Years After Hiroshima: Scottish CND Commemorates & Campaigns for Nuclear Disarmament
This August, Scottish CND marked the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing with two powerful ceremonies—a gathering at Glasgow's Peace Garden and a vigil at Faslane Nuclear Base. Join Fiona and Marlene as they reflect on these moving commemorations and what they reveal about our ongoing struggle for a n
Escalating Pressure Campaigning with Craig Dalzell
Making Campaigns Count: The Science of Effective Activism
What separates a campaign that changes the world from one that fades into obscurity? In this episode, Fiona and Marlene are joined by returning guest Dr Craig Dalzell from the think tank Commonweal to explore the research-backed principles of effective activism and civil resistance.
Drawing on the groundbreaking work of academics like Erica
Young Scots for Independence
"Building Scotland's Future Now: A Cross-Generational Conversation with Young Scots for Independence"
Join Fiona and Marlene as they sit down with Tommy Kelly and Sarah McCahill, the convenor and vice convenor of Young Scots for Independence, for an inspiring intergenerational dialogue that bridges five decades. Despite a 50-year age gap, this dynamic conversation reveals surprising common ground
The Road to Peak Equality with Bill Ramsay
Fiona and Marlene dive deep into Bill Ramsay's compelling presentation on the rise of inequality in Britain since the Thatcher era. From the birth of neoliberalism to the stark wealth gaps we see today, this episode traces four decades of economic policy and its ripple effects across society.
What started as an ideological shift has reshaped the union—and the consequences are only becoming clearer
Our Energy, Our future, Our Power
🔌 Who Should Own Scotland's Renewable Energy? | Our Power Campaign
Scotland's renewable energy boom is generating billions—but who's actually benefiting? In this episode, Fiona and Marlene chat with Rowan Aitchison from the brand-new campaign group Our Power, a coalition pushing to shift the unequal ownership of Scotland's renewable resources from private corporations to public hands.
If you belie
The Celtic Alliance: A Game Changer?
The Celtic Alliance: A New Political Horizon | Brussels Trip Part 3
After ten years of Brexit, something remarkable is emerging across the Celtic nations. In this final episode of our Brussels mini-series, we move beyond the question of ending Brexit to explore something far more significant: the growing political alignment between Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland—three nations now governed b
Scotland and Europe: A Conversation with Thomas Waitz MEP
What happens when activists from campaign groups Yes for EU and Europe for Scotland meet with an EU Parliament member to discuss the seismic shift in UK politics?
On the 10th anniverary of the Brexit vote we travelled to Brussels for informal discussions across a wide range of topics.
In this episode Austrian MEP Thomas Waitz sits down with a delegation of activists from Scotland to explore the i
Brexit 10 years on: A Day at the European Parliament
10 Years After Brexit: Scotland's European Journey 🇪🇺🏴
Ten years on from the Brexit vote, Scotland's relationship with Europe tells a different story. While the UK voted to Leave, Scotland voted decisively to Remain—and support for EU membership has only grown stronger.
In this first episode, Fiona and Marlene from IndyPodcasters join campaign groups yes4EU and Europe for Scotland on an extr
Lifting the Lid with Stuart Donald
In this episode, Fiona and Marlene chat with Stuart Donald about his landmark research paper, "Lifting the Lid on Britain's Pressure Cooker Politics: How Inequality and Neoliberal Capture Broke First Past the Post."
Stuart reveals how the UK's First-Past-The-Post voting system is directly linked to the chronic inequality crisis we see across Britain today. Drawing on 40 years of data on regional d
Independence: Building Momentum with Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp
What does it take to build a grassroots movement for Scottish independence? In this episode, Fiona and Marlene sit down with Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp, founder of Believe in Scotland, to discuss the organization's current campaign focus, their active petition, and the strategic work underway to advance the case for independence.
From mobilizing communities to shaping the independence debate, Gordon sh
All Under One Banner - Still Marching On
We catch up with Wendy MacDonald and Sean Mellon from All Under One Banner to pull back the curtain on a mainstay of grassroots activism. How do you organise a march that draws thousands? How did they get involved with the movement and what's coming next for this dynamic organisation?
We delve into the logistics, the passion and the community sprity behind Scotland's most iconic peaceful demonst
Election Autopsy Part 2: the data
Fiona and Marlene are back for Part 2 of our Election Autopsy series, this week looking at Persuasion UK polling data that reveals what Scottish voters actually care about.
Discover the issues, values, and motivations behind party choices—and what these insights mean for future campaigns and activism. A data-driven follow-up to our Election Autopsy Part 1 reaction episode.
Key topics covered:
00:
Bella Caledonia 20 Years On
Join Fiona and Marlene as they chat with Mike Small, editor of Bella Caledonia, about the platform's exciting 20th anniversary milestone.
Mike shares Bella Caledonia's ambitious plans for the future, including a 20-day crowdfunder designed to support the publication's next chapter. A key focus of their expansion is broadening the voices featured on the platform—with a particular commitment to publ
Election Autopsy: Part 1
The dust has settled on Scotland's latest parliamentary elections—but the independence debate is far from over. Fiona and Marlene sit down with young activist Liam Mosson to unpack what the results really mean for Scotland's future.
How are you feeling about what just happened at the ballot box? Elated or deflated? Let us know in the comments section. Where do independence movements go from her
Auld Alliance, New Friends
#AuldAlliance #ScotlandFrance #EuropeDay #CelticFestivals #FestivalEcossais1782 #ScottishCulture
Join Fiona and Marlene as they celebrate Europe Day (9th May) by exploring the centuries-old cultural bond between Scotland and France!
In this heartwarming episode, they chat with guest Jane MacKinnon, a Scot now based in France, about the vibrant Celtic festivals keeping the Auld Alliance alive . Fro
Holyrood 2026: Our Campaign Review
With the Holyrood parliamentary election just around the corner, we've gathered some of our activist friends around the table to dissect the 2026 campaign. What moments made us sit up and take notice? What surprised us? And what had us rolling our eyes?
From grassroots organizing to party messaging, we're breaking down what's worked, what hasn't, and what gives us genuine hope for Scottish politic
Scots - the Kindest People I've Ever Met with Malini Chakrabarty
Join Fiona and Marlene as they chat with artist and anti-racism champion Malini Chakrabarty about her powerful work, her experiences living in Scotland, and the crucial skills needed to build a more equitable society.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Malini shares both the positive and challenging aspects of her journey in Scotland, offering authentic insights into what it means to be a woman o
Ending the Energy Rip-Off
Fiona and Marlene are joined by Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp for an update on Believe in Scotland's campaign to end the energy rip-off.
Thousands of Scottish households and businesses are demanding answers. Despite being an energy-rich nation with abundant renewable resources, Scotland pays the highest energy prices in the UK—a disparity that defies logic and hits hardworking families where it hurts mos
Countdown to Holyrood: Heather Anderson
Latest in our series of interviews with candidates standing for election to Holyrood 2026, our guest this week is Heather Anderson who is standing for the Dundee City West constituency for the SNP.
Key themes:
00:01:20 On the Dundee campaign trail
00:03:13 SNP manifesto snippets
00:08:57 Youth hustings
00:11:52 Is low key campaigning a unionist tactic?
00:19:26 Independence is urgent
00:22:27 Impa
Journey to Independence: Galashiels
Join Fiona and Marlene as they hop aboard the Borders Railway for a cheerful journey to Galashiels! In this episode, we're connecting with the grassroots heart of Scottish independence—meeting some of the passionate activists who've organized a saltire covered independence convoy touring the Scottish Borders towns.
Along the way, we catch up with SNP candidate Calum Kerr to chat about what's happe
Countdown to Holyrood: Martyn Day
Continuing our series of interveiws with candidates for the Holyrood 2026 elections, our guest today is Martyn Day who is standing for Falkirk East and Linlithgow constituency for the SNP.
Key themes:
00:02:00 Campaigning in Falkirk East and Linlithgow
00:03:31 Reflections on 2024 General Election
00:06:10 Where are the yong folk?
00:09:38 Grangemouth and the future
00:12:38 SNP manifesto launch
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Scottish CND national hustings
Peace, Economy and Environment Scottish National Hustings | 26 March 2026
What do Scotland's political leaders really think about nuclear disarmament, climate action, and environmental sustainability? Find out in this revealing and frank hustings discussion featuring:
Ross Greer (Scottish Greens co-leader),
Colin Fox (Scottish Socialist Party national co-spokesperson),
Alex Kerr (Scottish Natio
Countdown to Holyrood: Ariane Burgess
With Scotland's parliamentary elections just around the corner, we're bringing you Countdown to Holyrood—our take on the 2026 campaign.
In this series, we sit down with politicians from across the independence spectrum to discuss their vision for Scotland's future. From policy priorities to campaign strategies, hear directly from the candidates and party representatives shaping the conversation le
Countdown to Holyrood: Laura Moodie
With Scotland's parliamentary elections just around the corner, we're bringing you Countdown to Holyrood—our take on the 2026 campaign.
In this series, we sit down with politicians from across the independence spectrum to discuss their vision for Scotland's future. From policy priorities to campaign strategies, hear directly from the candidates and party representatives shaping the conversation le
Vox Pops and Speeches from the Edinburgh rally
The Believe in Scotland march and rally in Edinburgh last Saturday was a colourful, noisy and joyful affair. In this bonus podcast we bring you Marlene's vox Pops - people she chatted with while waiting for the march to get going. Then we head on up to iconic Calton Hill for some of the speeches from the stage.
00:00:47 Vox Pops from the Royal Mile
00:18:09 Speeches from the rally
You can watc
Socialist Answers to ReformUK
Join us for the 5th Annual Jim McVicar Memorial Lecture, hosted by the Scottish Socialist Party.
The event is opened by Richie Venton who shares heartfelt personal memories of Jim McVicar, painting a picture of the man who inspired this moving tribute.
This year's lecture is delivered by SSP's national co-spokesperson and former MSP Colin Fox. The topic is both timely and provocative- Socialist a
The Energy Maze - with Dr Craig Dalzell
Energy bills are soaring, and Scotland's future hangs in the balance. In this episode, we tackle the complexity of Scotland's energy market with Dr Craig Dalzell from Commonweal, exploring whether First Minister John Swinney's bold claim that independence could cut Scottish bills by a third holds water.
We unpack the intricate dynamics of energy pricing, the potential economic benefits of Scottish
Art and Activism with Keira McLean
What happens when you combine stunning stained glass art with Glasgow's public libraries? Magic! Join Fiona and Marlene as they hunt for the beautiful windows created by artist Keira McLean in partnership with local communities.
From the stories and political perspective behind each piece to the impact these artworks have had on their neighborhoods, this episode celebrates creativity in unexpecte
Stop the Nuclear Nightmare - Faslane rally speeches
This Bonus Tuesday episode comes from the Scottish CND protest rally at Faslane on 14th March.
Despite near freezing temperatures and relentless rain, hundreds gathered at Faslane naval base to demand nuclear disarmament. Scottish CND brought together speakers and singers calling for de-escalation and a world free from nuclear weapons. In the face of rising global tensions, activists braved the el
Coincidence? Rise of the Billionaires...breakdown of international law
Former UK ambassador Craig Murray joins Glasgow Pensioners for Independence for a hard-hitting discussion on the growing breakdown of the international legal order. From selective enforcement of global rules to the erosion of institutions meant to uphold them, the conversation explores how power politics is reshaping the world stage.
What does this changing landscape mean for nations seeking self-
So you want my vote? Edinburgh WFI host a hustings
Edinburgh Women for Independence host a lively and thought-provoking hustings as Holyrood candidates Simita Kumar (SNP) and Ally Maxwell (SSP) go head-to-head. Representing the Scottish National Party and the Scottish Socialist Party respectively, both candidates tackle a wide range of audience questions — from the future of Scotland’s democracy to social justice, equality, and economic priorities
Scotland, will you march with us?
We chat to Believe in Scotland founder Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp about the biggest event on our March calendar - the "End London Rule" march and rally for independence in Edinburgh on 28th March 2026.
Gordon shares the details of the changes to the start time and planned route - the march will now begin at Noon at Parliament Square in the High Street and the rally will be held at iconic Calton Hill -
A Moment of challenge - Indypodcasters react to FM's speech
In this episode, indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene share our honest reactions to John Swinney’s speech A Moment of Challenge. We chat through the bits that genuinely landed for us, the moments that made us pause, and a couple of lowlights that didn’t quite hit the mark.
One thing that really stood out to us was the clear difference between the tone and framing of questions from the audience and t
Economics For All with William Thomson
What does it really mean to be a heterodox economist? And how does Modern Monetary Theory fit into today’s political narratives?
In this episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene catch up with political economist William Thomson to unpack the big ideas shaping Scotland’s economic debate. William explains what “heterodox economics” actually means, challenges mainstream thinking, and explores how M
Unbinding the Union - the Law of Leaving
What are the legal routes to an independence referendum—and who gets to decide? Fiona and Marlene bring you the standout highlights from Holyrood’s Constitutional Committee, featuring evidence from top constitutional lawyers. Expect myth-busting (goodbye “once in a generation”), clear-eyed legal analysis, and some unexpectedly rich discussions about trust, fairness and the health of democracy itse
On Thin Ice? Trump, Greenland and Scotland
As the Arctic heats up, so do the geopolitics. Regular guests Isobel Lindsay and Bill Ramsay join the Indypodcasters to dig into Donald Trump’s renewed aggression towards Greenland and what it reveals about a rapidly militarising Arctic. We ask why this frozen frontier suddenly matters so much—and what it means for security much closer to home. From opportunities arising out of Scotland’s strateg
Holyrood: Majority Rules?
Holyrood wasn't built for winner-takes-all politics. So why are we pretending it is?
This week, IndyPodcasters Fiona and Marlene dig into the idea of political mandates at Holyrood. With SNP leader John Swinney arguing that a majority of SNP MSPs would justify another independence referendum, we ask: does that really stack up in a system designed to avoid majority rule? And if a bigger, cross-par
The Making of Finland with Lesley Riddoch
Award-winning journalist and filmmaker Lesley Riddoch joins us to discuss her inspirational new film exploring Finland — a country often cited as one of the world’s most successful, fair and forward-thinking societies.
Beautifully shot and deeply engaging, the film looks beyond the headlines to ask why Finland works so well, and what lessons Scotland can learn from its journey. We talk about what
Hidden Costs of Inequality with Stuart Donald
We’re joined once again by data analyst Stuart Donald to explore the impacts of inequality — including some unexpected links to how we vote. There’s data, there are graphs, and there are a few “wait, really?” moments along the way. Whether you love a good chart or just a good conversation, this episode delivers.
Key themes:
00:00:51 The Equality Trust data sets
00:02:45 Inequality is strongly as
What's it like to be a Scot?
Happy New Year!
To mark the beginning of 2026, we share a address from the Makar of Scotland, Padraig MacAoidh, which was delivered to the Independence Forum Scotland's Autumn convention. In a lyrical meditation on identity, he asks what it means to be a Scot in a country shaped by history yet unfinished by it.
This is a speech rooted in language, land, ancestry, and imagination — a reminder that
Indy Artists Resonating Together
In this special episode, the Indypodcasters head to the Carsebridge Cultural Campus in Alloa for a vibrant four-day art exhibition brought to life by Yes Stones, Yes Slates, and the wider community of independent Scottish artists. Hosted by the charity Resonate Together, the event showcased an extraordinary collection of artwork generously donated by the artists — with proceeds shared between Reso
Geomythography with Stuart McHardy
As part of Scottish Book Week, we take you inside a fascinating event held at the Speirs Centre in Alloa, where author, storyteller, and folklorist Stuart McHardy introduced his latest book, Scotland’s Geomythography. In this engaging presentation, McHardy explores how ancient societies understood the landscapes around them and takes us on a journey through myth, memory, and the Scottish landscape
I Swear: Talking Tourette's with Carol Gilmour
In this episode, we sit down with the amazing Carol Gilmour, an artist, activist, and proud committee member of Tourette’s Scotland. We first met Carol through the group Artists for Indy, when she generously donated a set of her stunning paintings to the Indy Art Exhibition, a fantastic event which will be featured in a later podcast episode. Each artist nominated a charity to benefit from the pro
Behind the Scenes at the SCG Conference
A Conference of Ideas
Join indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene as they share their favourite moments from the Scottish Currency Group conference held in Dunfermline on 25th and 26th October.
Featuring behind-the-scenes commentary and chats with presenters Craig Dalzell and Colin Fox, plus insights on Scotland’s economic future, currency options, and more.
One key theme which emerged from several of
National Security Threat? Awa and Beil yerr Heid Lammy
In this episode our guests Isobel Lindsay and Bill Ramsay help unpack the deeper message behind Deputy PM David Lammy's extraordianry claim that the Scottish Government is a "national security threat".
But which nation is he talking about? From a Scottish perspective, many argue that Scotland's continued place within the UK poses the greater risk to Scotland's own national security.
We also revis
9 Steps to Independence
Can Scotland really become independent by May 2027?
At the latest Pensioners for Indy meeting, guest speaker Graeme McCormick laid out his nine-step roadmap to Scottish independence — and sparked a lively, thought-provoking debate.
Some in the audience argued that Scotland is a colony. Others insisted that Scots are sovereign. Can both views be true?
Graeme says no — and challenges us to think dee
Stranraer and The Rhinns By-Election Special
Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene meet SNP’s Simon Jones and Scottish Green Party’s Michael Havard — the two pro-independence party candidates standing in the upcoming council by-election. What are the key local issues, and what will they be campaigning on?
In this episode, we explore what’s at stake for Stranraer and The Rhinns — from local services and rural priorities to their place in Scotland’
Women's Voices - Front and Centre
In this episode of IndyPodcasters, hosts Fiona and Marlene sit down with guest Jacqui Jensen to explore how we can reconnect women with politics — wherever they are. From local communities to the national stage, we discuss why women’s voices must be at the heart of political decision-making and how inclusive conversations can drive real change and shape our nation.
Together, we unpack what’s keepi
Elspeth King - A Tribute: the Power of History
This special bonus episode pays tribute to the late Elspeth King, one of Scotland’s most influential curators and historians. Originally recorded in 2020, this conversation explores the absence of Scottish history in the national curriculum, the importance of heritage in shaping identity, and the power history holds in understanding who we are.
Elspeth King’s passion for preserving and promoting S
That's Them Telt!
It’s time to get some people TELT!
Join Scottish IndyPodcasters Fiona and Marlene as we serve up a no-holds-barred episode having the last word against everyone who’s wound us up this month.
From political nonsense to everyday irritations, nobody escapes our Telt List!
Expect a healthy dose of righteous rage as we say what everyone’s thinking — but with that unmistakable IndyPodcaster twist. Beca
Ivan McKee SNP meets Glasgow Pensioners for Indy
🎙️ Pensioners for Independence Meet SNP’s Ivan McKee
In this lively episode, we join Pensioners for Independence as they sit down with SNP MSP Ivan McKee at the Bacchus Bar in Glasgow for a wide-ranging discussion on the future of Scottish independence.
The conversation covers many pressing political topics, but the key theme that kept resurfacing was the SNP’s upcoming 2025 party conference – spe
Towards an Indy Congress with Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp
Fiona & Marlene Talk Indy with Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp – Reigniting the Movement!
In this must-listen episode, Fiona and Marlene sit down with Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp, founder of Believe in Scotland—the nation’s largest pro-independence campaign group. Fresh from signing a historic Memorandum of Understanding with John Swinney and the SNP, Gordon shares what this means for the future of the Yes mo
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 Conferen
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
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 abo
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 med
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
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 s
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 t
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 electora
The Housing Crunch - some Solutions
🎙 Solving Scotland’s Housing Crisis – with Dr Craig Dalzell of Common Weal 🏘
In this episode, we speak with Craig Dalzell, Head of Policy at the Scottish think tank Common Weal, about urgent, practical solutions to Scotland’s housing crisis. The discussion is based on his recent article in The National, which is addressed directly to Màiri McAllan, the newly appointed Housing Minister in the Scott
Anthony Carroll talks to P4Indy
Indypodcasters bring you the latest in the meetings hosted by campaign group Glasgow Pensioners for Independencespeaking with politicians from all pro-independence parties.
This time we’re joined by Cllr Anthony Carroll of the Scottish Greens for a lively and informative discussion on Scottish independence, local politics, and the road to Holyrood 2026.
The conversation dives into the Scottish G
Old Labour, New Labour, Blue Labour
🎙️25 Years of Scottish Left Review with Bob Thomson
In this special episode, Fiona and Marlene sit down with veteran trade unionist and political activist Bob Thomson to mark the 25th anniversary of Scottish Left Review. From his early days on the factory floor to the top of Unison, Bob shares a lifetime of experience in labour politics, trade unionism, and Scottish constitutional reform.
A foundi
Lord Provost's Peace Garden
Special Bonus Episode: Live from the Lord Provost’s Peace Garden – 80th Anniversary of Hiroshima
Join us for a powerful special episode recorded on 6th August 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing. We’re coming to you directly from the Lord Provost’s Peace Garden in Glasgow, where civic leaders, peace activists, and citizens gathered to honour the past and reflect on the futu
Through an MMT lens
In this episode Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene sit down with economist and educator Jim Byrne to talk about his new online course, MMT101: A Beginner’s Guide to Modern Monetary Theory. Designed to make Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) accessible to everyone, Jim’s course breaks down complex economic ideas into clear, understandable lessons. Learn more at https://mmt101.org
#indypodcasters #mmt #econ
Colette Walker ISP
In this revealing episode recorded at the Bacchus Bar in Glasgow, Pensioners for Independence invite Colette Walker, leader of the Independence for Scotland Party to address the group as part of a series of events the group are arranging leading up to Holyrood 2026.
Colette shares her unexpected journey into political leadership, her refusal to be defined by her visual impairment, and the challen
Wha's Like Us?
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. Together, they explore Scotland’s rich cultural h
Palestine - Yes It Is A Genocide
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
00:12:51 Speaker Doha Abu Amer
00:19:37 Speak
How We Set Up Our Parliament
🎙️ 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 over the past 20+ years.
They also explore Esther’s
Sacrificing our Heating Bills and other Good Ideas
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 future.
Whether you're passionate about tackling pove
