In this episode of the Holyrood Sources Podcast, we reflect on, the recent Tall Ships event in Aberdeen, the Hebridean Celtic Festival in Stornoway and the ongoing debate about zonal pricing in electricity. The conversation also touches on infrastructure challenges in Scotland, the implications of President Trump's visit, concerns over social unrest, and the trust deficit in political leaders, particularly among young people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jul 23, 2025•48 min•Season 4Ep. 34
In this conversation, Ross Greer discusses his candidacy for the leadership of the Scottish Greens, his relationship with the SNP, and the party's stance on various issues including taxation, council tax reform, and the impact of second homes on rural communities. He emphasises the importance of policies over personalities and addresses the complexities of political alliances in a minority government. The discussion also touches on the recent Sandie Peggie case and the implications of meeting wi...
Jul 16, 2025•59 min•Season 4Ep. 33
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts discuss Labour's recent welfare reforms, and the potential emergence of new political parties in Scotland. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by political leaders and the implications of their decisions on the future of governance in Scotland. We're joined by Calum Steele, a former General Secretary of the Scottish Police Federation, and former general secretary of the International Council of Police Representative Associat...
Jul 09, 2025•45 min•Season 4Ep. 32
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the discussion revolves around the upcoming 2026 Scottish parliamentary election, featuring insights from political analysts including Professor Sir John Curtice on the performances of key figures like John Swinney and Anas Sarwar. The conversation highlights the current public sentiment, the challenges faced by both the SNP and Labour, and the implications of the independence debate. The role of the reform party and the fragmentation of the union...
Jul 02, 2025•34 min•Season 4Ep. 31
With John Swinney and Anas Sarwar. This podcast special focuses on the upcoming Scottish parliamentary elections, featuring discussions on the current political landscape, the impact of geopolitical issues, and the challenges facing the Scottish government. Key themes include the need for bold political conviction, the implications of welfare reforms, and the ongoing debate around independence. The conversation also highlights the importance of education and energy policy in shaping Scotland's f...
Jun 26, 2025•1 hr 41 min•Season 4Ep. 30
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts discuss the potential for a coalition between the SNP and Labour, the implications of John Swinney's renewed focus on independence, and the challenges surrounding economic policies in Scotland. They also explore the concept of a minimum income guarantee and its feasibility in addressing poverty while maintaining economic sustainability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jun 18, 2025•40 min•Season 4Ep. 29
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts discuss the latest developments in Scottish politics, including the upcoming spending review and its implications for key projects like carbon capture and a new supercomputer. They analyse the recent by-election results, focusing on the defection of Councillor Jamie McGuire from Scottish Labour to Reform UK, and explore the reasons behind this shift. The conversation also touches on the language used in political discourse, the potential...
Jun 11, 2025•47 min•Season 4Ep. 28
Labour defeats the SNP to win the by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse - a Scottish Parliament seat - with Reform UK finishing third. We bring you instant analysis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 06, 2025•27 min•Season 4Ep. 27
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver focus on retail politics, election strategies, and the implications of Nigel Farage's recent visit to Scotland. They discuss the effectiveness of political messaging, the challenges faced by the Labour Party, and the need for a more substantial political offer in the upcoming election. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing voter concerns and the risks of dismissive rhetoric...
Jun 04, 2025•50 min•Season 4Ep. 26
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts discuss the upcoming Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, focusing on the dynamics between the SNP, Labour, and Reform UK. They explore the impact of controversial campaign tactics, the reception of candidates, and the shifting sentiments among voters. The conversation highlights the unpredictability of Scottish politics and the significance of this by-election in shaping future political narratives. With journalists Catriona S...
May 28, 2025•50 min•Season 4Ep. 25
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts focus on the potential for federalism as a solution to constitutional questions. They discuss the challenges faced by the SNP and unionist parties, particularly in relation to devolution and the energy sector. The conversation also highlights the fishing industry's struggles with EU negotiations and the broader implications for local communities in Scotland. The conversation looks at the implications of Brexit on Scotland's fishing indus...
May 21, 2025•53 min•Season 4Ep. 24
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Energy Minister Michael Shanks discusses the establishment and significance of Great British Energy, the investment commitments associated with it, and the potential of floating offshore wind. The conversation also considers into the challenges posed by policies affecting Scotland's renewable energy sector, as well as the transition of jobs from the oil and gas industry to renewable energy roles. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the urge...
May 17, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 4Ep. 23
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into key issues in Scottish politics, including the decentralisation of governance, the recent debate on assisted dying legislation, and the implications of current polling trends for political parties. They discuss the emotional and personal nature of parliamentary debates, the challenges faced by MSPs in articulating their positions, and the potential future of Scottish independence amidst rising nationalism. Hosted on Acast. See...
May 14, 2025•42 min•Season 4Ep. 22
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver discuss the recent Programme for Government announced by John Swinney, the implications for the upcoming 2026 election, and the impact of Nicola Sturgeon's comments on the Supreme Court ruling regarding the definition of a woman. The conversation also touches on the rise of Reform UK and the challenges it poses to traditional Scottish parties, as well as speculations about potential cabinet r...
May 08, 2025•40 min•Season 4Ep. 21
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the current state of Scottish politics, discussing Tony Blair's recent comments on net zero policies and their implications. They explore the recent Canadian election results and what they mean for political dynamics in Scotland. The discussion also revolves around the upcoming local elections in England, focusing on the significance of Reform UK and its potential impact on the Conservative and Labour parties. Adam Boulton pro...
Apr 30, 2025•58 min•Season 4Ep. 20
We consider the implications of the recent Supreme Court ruling that defines a woman by biological sex under equalities law. The discussion features insights from political figures and grassroots activists, particularly Susan Smith from For Women Scotland, who reflects on the ruling's impact on women's rights and the ongoing political discourse surrounding gender identity. The conversation highlights the need for clarity in leadership, the challenges faced by women and trans individuals, and the...
Apr 23, 2025•54 min•Season 4Ep. 19
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, we answer your questions on various pressing issues in Scottish politics, including the potential for a new centre-right party, the challenges of welfare reform and economic growth, the state of the education system, and the quality of political candidates. We discuss the need for a more inclusive political landscape and the importance of addressing the funding crisis in Scottish universities. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of ...
Apr 16, 2025•32 min•Season 4Ep. 18
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver discuss the significance of Tartan Week, the recent defection of Jamie Greene from the Scottish Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats, and the challenges faced by political parties in Scotland. The conversation highlights the tribal nature of the Scottish Parliament, the shifting political landscape, and the implications of these changes for the future of the Scottish Conservatives and the broader ...
Apr 09, 2025•59 min•Season 4Ep. 17
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts reflect on the recent passing of SNP MSP Christina McKelvie, discuss the implications of her death on the upcoming by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, and analyse the potential impact of President Trump's new tariffs on Scottish businesses. They also look at the leadership of Kenny MacAskill in the Alba party and the challenges he faces in uniting the party and presenting a credible alternative to the SNP. Hosted on Acast. ...
Apr 02, 2025•39 min•Season 4Ep. 16
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Ivan McKee, the SNP MSP and Minister for Public Finance, discusses the Scottish Government's engagement with businesses, the role of the civil service, and the challenges of public service reform. He emphasises the importance of innovation and efficiency in the civil service, the need for the Scottish Government to take initiative rather than just mitigate Westminster policies, and the ongoing efforts to address child poverty. In this conversation...
Mar 28, 2025•41 min•Season 4Ep. 15
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts assess the latest developments in Scottish politics, focusing on Nicola Sturgeon's recent legal relief amidst ongoing investigations into SNP finances. They discuss the public's reaction to Sturgeon's situation, her legacy, and the trust issues facing the SNP. The conversation also touches on Anas Sarwar's surprising new stance on energy policy, Douglas Ross's departure from Holyrood, and the dynamics within the Tory party regarding net ...
Mar 26, 2025•41 min•Season 4Ep. 14
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast we focus on the recent welfare reforms announced by the UK government and their implications for Scotland. We discuss the challenges faced by the Scottish government in managing its budget amidst these reforms, the economic inactivity among young people, and the political dynamics between the SNP and Labour Party. The conversation highlights the impact of welfare on society and the need for economic growth, while also considering the future landsca...
Mar 19, 2025•44 min•Season 4Ep. 13
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the discussion revolves around Nicola Sturgeon's decision not to stand for re-election as an MSP in 2026. The speakers reflect on her legacy, discussing both her successes and failures during her time in office, including her electoral achievements, handling of COVID-19, and controversial policies such as gender recognition. They also consider the implications of her departure for the SNP and the future political landscape in Scotland. The convers...
Mar 12, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 12
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, host Calum Macdonald and guest Andy Maciver discuss Scotland's role in global politics, particularly in light of current events involving Ukraine and Donald Trump. They explore Scotland's economic interests, military significance, and the potential for leveraging military assets to enhance Scotland's political influence. The conversation also touches on the reliability of the USA as an ally and the implications for European defence strategies. Hos...
Mar 05, 2025•47 min•Season 4Ep. 11
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver analyse the current landscape of Scottish politics, focusing on the dynamics within the Scottish Labour Party, the implications of energy policies, and the ongoing debates surrounding gender recognition reform. The conversation highlights the importance of effective political communication, the challenges of leadership, and the need for a balanced approach to energy pricing and local communit...
Feb 26, 2025•41 min•Season 4Ep. 10
We're joined by the Scottish Labour leader and Scottish Labour deputy leader, Anas Sarwar and Jackie Baillie, to discuss their route to victory in 2026, NHS reforms, regionalisation of Scotland, nurse Sandie Peggie, energy policy and more. In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on the challenges faced by the Scottish Labour Party under the leadership of Anas Sarwar and Jackie Bailey. The conversation explores the imp...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Season 4Ep. 9
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver delve into the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on Labour's recent pledges to maintain free services, the challenges of political messaging, and the ongoing crisis in the NHS. They discuss the implications of Anas Sarwar's commitments, the effectiveness of Labour's strategy, and the need for a more holistic approach to healthcare. The conversation also touches on the performance o...
Feb 12, 2025•45 min•Season 4Ep. 8
In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on key figures like Anna Sarwar and the implications of Westminster's decisions on Scottish Labour. They discuss Sarwar's recent comments regarding potential collaboration with Reform UK, the impact of the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas fields decision, and the public's perception of Sarwar's leadership. The conversation highlights the need for a more substantial policy discus...
Feb 05, 2025•47 min•Season 4Ep. 7
We're joined by Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton. In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver discuss the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on the recent budget negotiations involving the Scottish government and the Liberal Democrats. They explore the dynamics of political collaboration, the implications of the rise of the Reform Party, and reflections on political messaging in both Scottish and US context...
Jan 29, 2025•51 min•Season 4Ep. 6
In this engaging conversation, Former White House Communications Director for President Trump, Anthony Scaramucci - who famously held the job for 11 days - discusses the evolution of Donald Trump since his first term. He delves into the implications of tariffs on UK industries, the complexities of Trump's relationship with Scotland, and the contrasting energy policies between the US and Scotland. Scaramucci also reflects on the rise of nationalism and its historical context, emphasizing the need...
Jan 26, 2025•35 min•Season 4Ep. 5
