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 heritage and discuss the positive trajectory of Scottish identity and nationhood in the 21st century....
Jul 25, 2025•34 min•Ep. 954
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 Speaker Tommy Sheppard 00:29:42 Speaker Lesley Riddoch #palestine #gaza #edinburgh The Scottish Independence Pod...
Jul 22, 2025•37 min•Ep. 955
🎙️ 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 current work with the Build A Local Scotland campaign (www.buildlocal.scot), including the critical...
Jul 18, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 953
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 poverty, Universal Basic Income, or building a wellbeing economy, this episode offers rich insights from ...
Jul 11, 2025•52 min•Ep. 951
A Bonus episode with updates on three important topics discussed at the IFS spring conference in March 2025: 00:01:34 Scotland's Land Reforms - John Hutchison 00:10:00 Scotland's Energy - John Proctor 00:24:50 Scotland's Democracy - Geoff Bush 00:30:55 Comment from the floor 00:34:35 Forward look This Friday's podcast episode will be the Poverty and Wellbeing session from the Summer conference and we have news of the Autumn conference for your diaries. Find out more from the IFS website https://...
Jul 08, 2025•36 min•Ep. 952
🎙️ IndyPodcasters, Fiona and Marlene chat with award-winning journalist and filmmaker Lesley Riddoch about her latest documentary project – a powerful new film exploring why Finland is the happiest country in the world 🇫🇮✨ Scotland has already adopted Finland’s famous Baby Boxes, but what else can we learn? Lesley dives into: 🔹 Finland’s world-renowned education system 🔹 Distinctive land ownership patterns 🔹 A cultural mindset that values equality and collective wellbeing over individual w...
Jul 04, 2025•44 min•Ep. 950
In this upbeat episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene speak with Fatima Joji, a member of the National Executive of Women for Independence (WFI), about the organisation’s bold relaunch on International Women’s Day . WFI played a vital role in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, building a respected and influential grassroots network of women-led local groups. But over the last decade, momentum has slowed and some groups have gone quiet. Fatima shares her vision for re-energising WFI, t...
Jun 27, 2025•41 min•Ep. 949
In this timely episode, Glasgow Pensioners for Independence sit down with Colin Fox, national spokesperson for the Scottish Socialist Party, for a wide ranging discussion on Scotland's shifting political landscape. Recorded just ahead of the Hamilton by-election, the conversation explores the future of hte independence movement, the role of left-wing politics in Scotland and what might lie ahead as we move toward the Holyrood 2026 elections. The outcome of the by election was unknown at the time...
Jun 20, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 948
In this powerful episode, recorded live at a Yes Glasgow NW event, guest speaker Scott Donohoe from Glasgow Trade Union council delivers a passionate and informative talk on the planned closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery — a decision that threatens thousands of jobs, livelihoods, and the stability of the local community. Scott outlines a detailed historical timeline of events, highlighting the ongoing struggles of the workforce and exposing Labour's broken promises to protect vital Scottish...
Jun 13, 2025•54 min•Ep. 947
Pat Kane is in conversation with John Drummond on the TNT Show in this week's podcast episode. This is a fascinating and wide ranging conversation covering topics as diverse as the leadership required to respond to climate related migration, the factors which could be better harnessed to promote Scottish independence and the possible post American future world order! You can also watch the video version of this conversation here https://www.youtube.com/live/Ea5MDIilkYM?si=rm5QIz-zJj7Ayxw2 #patka...
Jun 06, 2025•56 min•Ep. 945
A guest episode from Iain Bruce's climate justice show Rising Clyde, this week focussing on the links between the fossil fuel giants and the far right and how they are exploiting the climate crisis for profit and power. Iain's guests are activists Ash and Quan and he begins the episode with footage from a protest outside Glasgow based company Seapeak Maritime. You can watch the video version of this show here https://www.youtube.com/live/hTajcsDj9ik #climatejustice #climatecamp #risingclyde The ...
Jun 03, 2025•31 min•Ep. 946
With only 1 year left of the Scottish Government's current term First Minister John Swinney set out his Programme for Government for 2026-26. Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene listened to the main speeches and then went digging into the detail - and we found quite a lot that caught our eye. Our verdict? Mainly highlights but also the occasional lowlight. As the old saying goes- the devil is in the detail. We've included chapter headings so if you have already watched John Swinney and Kate Forbes ...
May 30, 2025•51 min•Ep. 944
Building a Democracy for the 21st Century On 26th April the Electoral Reform Society held a conference in Edinburgh called A Scottish Spring with a range of excellent speakers covering topics such as the rise of polarisation in democracy, Scottish public opinion, Civic and local democracy in Scotland , engagement and debate. Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene were there and very much enjoyed the discussions and presentations. It was a full day event so we weren't able to film every session in its ...
May 23, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 942
Scotland in Europe: Our journey to the European Parliament! In this special episode of our podcast, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene share our exciting journey to Brussels where they joined a delegation organised by campaign groups Yes for EU and Europe for Scotland. Our mission? To promote Scotland's place in Europe and meet with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs ) in support of an independent Scotland rejoining the EU. From behind the scenes moments to exclusive MEP interviews, this epi...
May 16, 2025•55 min•Ep. 943
English Council Elections Fallout: What can Scotland learn? In this episode, Fiona and Marlene are joined by regular guests Bill Ramsay and Isobel Lindsay to discuss the recent English local council election results and the growing momentum behind far right organisation Reform Uk. What do these political shifts mean for Scottish politics? could they signal change - or opportunity - north of the border? We explore the dangers of politicians clinging to the centre ground, how to re-energise a disi...
May 09, 2025•56 min•Ep. 941
Join Fiona, Marlene and Lynne as they look back at everything April threw their way - from local activism to international campaigning. In this NOT-a-livestream episode, the trio break down their month, share behind the scenes stories and react to standout moments from Holyrood and Westminster. Subscribe for sharp chat, smart laughs and solid political insight - even when it's pre-recorded! Key themes included are: 00:00:19 Believe in Scotland's litter picking campaign 00:02:27 Yes4EU's Brussels...
May 02, 2025•55 min•Ep. 940
Holyrood 2026: What Makes a Great Manifesto? In this episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene take you to Govan, where the Scottish Independence Convention held a lively and inspiring event on 5th April 2025 to kick-start conversations around the Holyrood 2026 elections. The big question: What do we want to see in party manifestos? We feature insights from three standout speakers, each bringing bold, fresh ideas and proposing three key topics they believe should be included in their 2026 manife...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 939
Laurie MacFarlane from Future Economy Scotland gave, in our opinion, the standout speech at the recent Independence Forum for Scotland conference held in Edinburgh on 1st March 2025. Land Reform is one of those key topics where the public mood seems to be for further, faster reform than our politicians seem able to keep up with but the stakes are high and the potential benefits to Scotland are immense. Find out more from https://futureeconomy.scot #landreform #socialjustice #scotland The Scottis...
Apr 23, 2025•21 min•Ep. 938
Peace and Poetry : Scottish CND's Annual Poetry fundraiser event, Glasgow 2025 Join us for an inspirational podcast episode recorded live at the Scottish CND's Annual Peace and Poetry Event in Glasgow - a celebration of art, activism and reflections on war, peace and hope for the future. This special fundraiser brought together an exceptional line-up of poets who shared moving and thought-provoking work on the themes of peace, war, beauty, tragedy, hope, love and the future of our planet. Whethe...
Apr 18, 2025•56 min•Ep. 937
Audio version of the recent TNT show where host John Drummond interviews Professor Alf Baird about the concept of Scotland as a colony of England in the light of the recent application to the UN to add Scotland to the list of colonised countries. You can watch the video version of the TNT show here https://www.youtube.com/live/zoX3jbDb710?si=BTTYqVupU9esAqIX More information about the application to the UN is on the Liberation Scotland website here https://liberation.scot Alf's Book "Doun-Hauden...
Apr 11, 2025•49 min•Ep. 936
In this thought provoking interview, Marlene and Fiona sit down with data analyst Stuart Donald to discuss his fascinating research on the "union dividend". Stuart's research delves into the origins of the Barnett formula and even further back to pre war economics to unpack the myths and misconceptions about the financial benefits Scotland supposedly receives from England and how much better off we would be if we were able to make our own political choices. Stuart also highlights how the Westmin...
Apr 04, 2025•56 min•Ep. 935
Join Fiona, Marlene, and regular guest Lynne as they dive into the most pressing topics in Scottish and Westminster politics. From Labour's disastrous welfare cuts and the ongoing battle over PIP (Personal Independence Payments) to the Scottish Tories desperate attempts to run down Ferguson Marine, the trio offers insightful analysis and opinion. Tune in for an eye-opening discussions on topics as diverse as the dangers of the nuclear industry, the latest Believe in Scotland litterpicking campai...
Mar 28, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 934
It's Time to Reclaim Our Clyde! Join Fiona and Marlene's discussion with passionate SCND activists David Kelly and David Peutherer as we talk about the vital need to rid the River Clyde of nuclear weapons. We dive into the engaging new campaign "It's Time to Reclaim Our Clyde" urging young people to find out more and take action for a nuclear free Scotland. Discover why independence is the only way to ensure a safer nuclear-free future for Scotland and how the campaign is empowering the next gen...
Mar 21, 2025•42 min•Ep. 933
In this insightful discussion, Fiona and Marlene are joined by expert commentators Bill Ramsay and Isobel Lindsay to analyse the latest developments from the White House. They explore the growing implications for Ukraine, the evolving UK-US relationship, and the global push for increased defence spending. As tensions rise, the panel delves into whether this military build up truly benefits nations or if it mainly serves the interests of arms manufacturers Key themes: 00:01:54 - context 00:03:45 ...
Mar 14, 2025•52 min•Ep. 932
Miners' Strike 40th Anniversary | Alex Shanks & Richie Venton at Jim McVicar Memorial Lecture In this episode, Marlene and Fiona attend the Scottish Socialist Party's Jim McVicar Memorial Lecture to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 1984-85 Miners' Strike. Featuring Alex Shanks, a young miner during the strike, and Richie Venton, author of Class War on Workers, this event offers passionate speeches that explore the strike’s lasting impact on the working class. The discussions dive into...
Mar 07, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 931
Join Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene and guests Lynne Dougan and Jacqui Jensen as we mull over the latest Scottish political snippets from Holyrood, Westminster and beyond. Themes include: 00:01:19 - The power of the positive outlook 00:09:47 - Outside the Labour Party conference 00:15:51 - Findlay's Barlinnie Paradise 00:19:05 - Pam Ghosal's Wild West Schools 00:25:35 - Bailey alarms patients 00:32:58 - Kate Forbes on the Internal Market Act threat 00:35:40 - Sarwar goes nuclear 00:38:50 - Wha...
Feb 28, 2025•58 min•Ep. 930
A bonus podcast episode from Rising Clyde, the Scottish Climate Justice Show. Host Iain Bruce discusses the potentially unjust transition of workers at Grangemouth following the announcement that over 400 redundancy notices are being issued by refinery operator Petroineos. Iain's guests are Rosie Hampton of Friends of the Earth Scotland and Ewan Gibbs, historian of industry, energy and protest at the University of Glasgow with contributions from Chris Hamilton, Unite convenor at the plant, aviat...
Feb 25, 2025•37 min•Ep. 929
With special guest Dr Philippa Whitford, retired surgeon and former SNP MP. Trump's astonishing proposal to turn Gaza into a waterfront resort may have dominated the headlines, but the real story is the ongoing plight of the people of Gaza as the fragile ceasefire takes effect. Dr Philippa has lived and worked in Gaza and here she offers her unique personal perspective on the recent conflict and the prospects of a peaceful solution. If you would like to support the charity Medical Aid for Palest...
Feb 21, 2025•57 min•Ep. 928
With guests Andy Anderson and Leah Gunn Barratt of Respect Scottish Sovereignty we take a closer look at the International Covenant for Civil and Political Rights ( ICCPR) and what incorporation of these rights into Scots Law could mean to the Scottish people. Key themes include: 00:01:00 Overview of Human Rights legislation 00:03:30 Why should we incorporate ICCPR? 00:06:00 Petition before the Scottish Parliament 00:08:50 Example - Switzerland 00:10:30 Example - Taiwan 00:13:15 Example - South ...
Feb 14, 2025•58 min•Ep. 927
Ringwood Publishing is an independent Scottish publisher based in Glasgow. In January they hosted an even called Reflections and Revelations: Our Memoirs Event showcasing several of their authors who have written books based on Memoir. Fiona and Marlene were delighted to attend and record the event. Speakers and readings are: 00:01:04 Mary McCabe, author of Two Closes and a Referendum and Stirring the Dust 00:08:27 Carol Fox, author of Memoirs of a Feminist Mother 00:16:36 Sandy Jamieson, Chief ...
Feb 07, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 926
