Scottish Independence Podcasts

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 itself. Key points: 00:01:46  "Once in a generation" is just campaign rhetoric 00:04:35  "Settled will" is just political rhetoric 00:06:29   "Supermajority" is not required, the precedent is a simple majority 00:07:13   Scotland would secede from the UK state, not the Act of Union 00:07:47   The Act of Union is subject to the Scotland Act sec 37 00:09:09   The Claim of Right does not confer popular sovereignty 00:11:36    The Treaty of Union confirms Scots are a nation 00:13:12    Scots have the right to self determination, how do we exercise it 00:15:16    Perceptions of fairness 00:18:31   Trust in democratic processes 00:21:15    UK duty of "rigorous impartiality" in NI border poll 00:25:44    Ambivalent Unionism 00:32:08     Citizens Assemblies etc 00:42:42     Independence is a process, not an event 00:45:05     England can vote to leave UK, why not Scotland? 00:49:43     Westminster is blocking democracy. #scottishindependence #constitutionalrights #mythbusting  "Contains information licensed under the Scottish Parliament Copyright Licence".  Clips come from the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee meetings held on 13th and 27th November and 11th and 18th December 2025. The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Get in touch: Email:  indypodcasters@gmail.com  Bluesky: @scottishindypod Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  Video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm We're also on TikTok : scotindypodcasters   If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

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 strategic position in the North Atlantic to the uncomfortable realities of hosting nuclear weapons, we challenge the pervasive myth of an “independent” UK deterrent. We also take a hard look at Keir Starmer’s deferential approach to Trump, and what Westminster's eagerness to please says about Britain's real place in the global pecking order.  Key moments: 00:04:19   A good time to rethink Scotland's position 00:07:57   Which state perceives Scotland as a threat? 00:10:27    Is the US an ally or a threat? 00:14:15    Tensions between NATO members is not new 00:17:38     Inevitable impacts of Global warming 00:19:08     Why do states start wars? 00:23:24     Carney's remarkable Davos speech 00:27:33      Values, Trump and the Board of Peace 00:33:42     The real threat to England after Scottish independence 00:36:14      An opportunity for France 00:39.11      An opportunity for Scotland 00:45:25      Do our politicians measure up? 00:46:45      Michels Iron Law of Oligarchy 00:48:55       Reichs 4 Axioms for dealin with Trump 00:51:13       A rupture not a transition #trump #greenland #scotland You can find the JOhn Swinney speech we mentioned here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2MsBB-3wAo The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Get in touch: Email:  indypodcasters@gmail.com  Bluesky: @scottishindypod Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  Video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm We're also on TikTok : scotindypodcasters If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.    

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-party majority backs independence, shouldn’t that count too? 00:03:25  John Swinney explains how the UK UNion fails Scotland 00:06:49   SNP majority  equals a  binding mandate? 00:09:20   Walking into his own trap? 00:13:52    Rachel Reeves is stuck in a rut 00:16:55    Once in a generation just campaign rhetoric 00:18:43    Edinburgh Agreement not a precedent 00:20:17    David Cameron's decision not binding 00:24:21     Is a majority the magic wand? 00:28:03     Angus Robertson has a different view 00:34:09      Our quick poll #holyrood  #proportionalrepresentation #mandate The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Get in touch: Email:  indypodcasters@gmail.com  Bluesky: @scottishindypod   Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  Video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm We're also on TikTok : scotindypodcasters If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.  

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 independence could make possible — but also, crucially, the changes we don’t have to wait for. From education and local democracy to trust, equality and community power, this is an inspiring conversation about what Scotland can begin building right now. Lesley will be presenting a series of film screenings followed by Q&A sessions, details are on her website https://lesleyriddoch.com/events with more events being added. key themes: 00:03:45 Sisu, Smeddum and Trust 00:06:01 National Security and Resilience 00:13:59 Food Security and Co-operatives 00:16:17 Public Ownership of Assets 00:18:37 Scotland's Transition 00:22:07 Common Sense Solutions - Prisons 00:28:13 World Leading Education from Kindergarten onwards 00:41:39 Forests and Family Trees 00:45:58 Lessons for Scotland #finland #lesleyriddoch The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Get in touch: Email:  indypodcasters@gmail.com  Bluesky: @scottishindypod Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  Video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm We're also on TikTok : scotindypodcasters If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

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 associated with societal problems 00:04:12   Income inequality and recycling rates 00:08:28  Inequality and democracy 00:12:13   Inequality and mental health stigma 00:17:14  Inequality and infant mortality 00:22:01   Would PR at Westminster  be bad for Scotland? 00:31:07  Why Europe needs immigration 00:40:19   Projections for Holyrood 2026 Find out more about inequality graphs at https://equalitytrust.org.uk/evidence-base/the-spirit-level-at-15/ Also you can follow @inequalitynews on Bluesky Holyrood seats projection image from @ballotbox.scot on Bluesky Immigration projections image originally from the Guardian. #inequality #proportionalrepresentation #stuartdonald The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Get in touch: Email:  indypodcasters@gmail.com  Bluesky: @scottishindypod Instagram: @scottishindypod Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  Video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm We're also on TikTok : scotindypodcasters If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

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 nationhood begins not in institutions, but in people. A moment of reflection to carry us into the year ahead. For more information about the Makar and his poetry see our blogpost here https://scottishindypod.scot/blogpost/makar-padraig-macaoidh/ You can watch the full coverage of the IFS convention here https://www.youtube.com/live/Ww2ZWOJhuhc?si=SVucfMN7XLxre83z #IFS #Makar, Scottishindependence The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.  

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 Resonate Together and nine Scottish charities chosen by the artists themselves. From luminous landscapes to pieces exploring history, politics, and Scottish culture, the exhibition was a celebration of creativity in all its forms. Visitors enjoyed coffee, cake, live music and great conversation at the drop-in stone-painting workshop that kept the creative energy flowing. Join us as we wander through the exhibition, chat with organisers and artists, and capture the warmth, talent, and community spirit that made these four days truly special. Key points: 00:04:37  Opening day 00:10:04   Chatting with artist Walker McGowan 00:15:33   Reclaiming our culture with piper Caimbeul Mac An T-Saoir 00:15:45    Chatting with Mary at the workshop 00:17:36    Chatting with Angela Watt, founder of Resonate Together 00:23:39     Chatting with Lynne Dougan, Yes Stones/Slates 00:30:24     Reflecting on the event with Neil Haston, Yes Stones/Slates 00:31:35     Protest corner, with music by Jim McLean Find out more about Resonate Together from their Facebook page or https://www.facebook.com/Resonatetogether or check out their website https://resonatetogether.org.uk Find out more about Yes Stones from their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/183023062566228 Check out Artists for Independence on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/artistsforindy.scot #art #scottishculture #scottishartists The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Homeland by the Graham Brown Band The Man from Peterhead by Jim McLean Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.    

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. Join us as we delve into the emerging field of geomythography, which blends oral tradition, place-name study, landscape interpretation, and archaeology to reveal the deep-time stories embedded in Scotland’s terrain. From echoes of prehistoric rituals to clues hidden in local lore, this episode uncovers how the past still resonates in the places we walk today. Key themes: 00:10:42   Calanais 00:20:34   Beltane 00:22:05   Ballachulish Goddess 00:22:57   Paps and Mams 00:23:48   The Cailleach and Bride 00:24:52   Beinn Bheithir and dragons 00:28:18   Cauldrons 00:28:54   Clustering 00:29:46    Paps of Jura 00:32:01   The Corrievreckan 00:39:12   Craigshouse Bay 00:42:08   Bennachie 00:46:09   Tigh nam Bodach  Find Stuart's books for sale here https://luath.co.uk/pages/stuart-mchardy #scottishhistory #mythology #stuartmchardy The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

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 proceeds—and Carol chose Tourette’s Scotland. But that’s not all… Carol also appears in the hit film I Swear, which just happened to be top of the UK box office the very weekend we recorded and was also the subject of a Scottish Parliament debate at Holyrood! 🎬  Indypodcaster Fiona and guest presenter Lynne dashed off to see the film, and then reunited with Carol for a warm and eye-opening conversation about art, activism, Tourette’s, and life in the spotlight. Find our more about Tourette's Scotland from their website https://tourettescotland.org  Watch the Holyrood debate here: https://www.scottishparliament.tv/meeting/members-business-sarah-boyack-supporting-tourette-scotland-and-greater-awareness-and-inclusion-for-people-with-tourette-syndrome-november-13-2025?clip_start=12:51:37&clip_end=13:24:56 Find out more about the group Artists for Indy here: https://bsky.app/profile/artistsforindy.scot 👉 Subscribe, like, and share to support the pod!  #CarolGilmour #TouretteScotland #ISwear The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.  

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 the speakers was the issue of Foreign Direct Investment, which the Scottish Government seem to embrace enthusiastically while others watch with concern at the level of profits being extracted from Scotland due to extensive foreign ownership of land and assets.   Key topics: 00:01:25  Ian Stewart introduces the Conference of Ideas 00:08:23  Craig Dalzell explains the pins in the map 00:16:35  William Thompson - Scotgov has got the wrong approach 00:28:29  Robin McAlpine - recapturing the Scottish economy 00:43:44  Colin Fox - A vision for a better Scotland Find out more from the Scottish Currency Group's new website https://scg.scot watch all the sessions from the conference at https://www.youtube.com/@UCbTZJrFgbalSJTNMfrb0N6A  Read more from Scotonomics on Scotland's Sectoral balances here https://scotonomics.org/private-sector-debt-in-scotland/ #scottishcurrencygroup #scottishindependence #economics The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.  

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 revisit a powerful highlight from the recent Scottish CND conference: former Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard's eloquen and forceful speech challenging the Uk Labour Government's increasingly militarised foreign and economic policies. Join us for a forthright conversation about power, security and Scotland's future role in the world. key themes: 00:00:31  Lammy insults a nation 00:03:24  Who poses the biggest threat to Scotland? 00:16:00  Resilience and Security 00:28:19  Richard Leonard calls our UK Labour's path to war 00:30:33  Role and purpose of arms industry in creating as narrative of fear 00:38:43  Richard Leonard on US ownership of UK nuclear weapons 00:45:14  Craig Dalzell on nuclear power as a cover story 00:49:19  Uk labour government policy of escalating militarisation 00:50:43  Our message to Mr Lammy  #davidlammy #ScottishCND #scottishindependence The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

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 deeply about what independence actually means. The British state claims Scotland is in a voluntary union, yet can’t explain how we might voluntarily leave that union. So which is it — a union or a trap? Tune in for a fascinating and fiery discussion about sovereignty, legality, and Scotland’s future in (or out of) the UK. 🎙️ Recorded at the latest Pensioners for Indy meeting. Key themes: 00:04:53 - The 9 Steps to Independence 00:22:06 - Where do we go from here? 00:29:54 - Plans to use the list vote in Holyrood 2026? 00:36:14 - thoughts on the memorandum of understanding between SNP and Believe in Scotland? 00:39:49 - Are we a colony or are we sovereign? #scottishindependence #graememccormick #sovereignty The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.  

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’s wider democratic landscape.   00:01:20  Simon Jones, Scottish National Party candidate 00:23:38  Michael Havard, Scottish Green Party candidate #scottishpolitics #stranraer #byelection   The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Industrial Cinematic by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.      

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 keeping women disengaged, share practical ways to reach out across divides, and highlight the power of more local democracy in shaping policies that truly reflect women’s lives. If you care about women in politics, grassroots activism, and ensuring female voices are front and centre in our national dialogue, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in to discover how we can build a more equal, engaged, and representative democracy — one conversation at a time key themes: 00:01:12  Re-engaging women in politics 00:09:36  Bringing women into the conversation 00:15:44  Reaching women where they are 00:21:18   The power of more local democracy 00:23:40   Women in national politics 00:25:40   Is Holyrood making life harder for itself? 00:32:29   Next steps #democracy #womensvoices #grassrootsactivism   The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

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 Scotland’s cultural history shines through every moment of this interview. As we mourn her passing, this episode serves as both a reminder of her remarkable legacy and a call to keep Scottish history alive in our schools, museums, and communities. #scottishhistory #scottisheducation #scottishheritage   The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.    

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. Because sometimes, people just need TELT! 00:03:15 Joanie Reid gets TELT! 00:04:50 Russell Findlay gets TELT! 00:17:35 Scottish National Investment Bank gets TELT! 00:24:29 Trump's ICE thugs get TELT! 00:27:24 Anti Low Emission Zone protestors get TELT! 00:31:28 Chat with our guest Mary McCabe 00:47:12 Indypodcasters get TELT! #telt #scottishindependence #indypodcasters The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

🎙️ 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 – specifically the debate on whether a majority SNP victory at the next election should constitute a mandate to seek a second independence referendum, echoing the "precedent" set by Alex Salmond’s 2011 SNP majority. Tune in for insights on strategy, party policy, grassroots activism, and the path forward for Scotland’s independence movement from the perspective of both elected representatives and passionate citizen campaigners. Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene also add their own thoughts at the end in the light of the SNP conference decision to back the "SNP majority" proposal Key topics: 00:01:41  Ivan McKee opening remarks 00:11:05  How can we get messages out with a hostile media  00:12:43  What happened to the rebuttal unit? 00:15:03   Won't both votes SNP  let unionist parties in? 00:16:14   Constituency seats vs list seats 00:18:53    What do we do if Westminster say no? 00:21:34   Why does SNP not support the ICCPR petition? 00:24:19    How safe is the Scottish NHS from Westminster privatisation? 00:26:18    Is US style fascism coming here? 00:29:25    Why is a majority of SNP+Greens not acceptable? 00:33:30    All indy parties should include independence in their manifesto 00:35:09    How will the situation in Northern Ireland affect independence? 00:36:10    What is the Plan B if Westminster refuse? 00:39:27    Reflections after the event 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and let us know what you think in the comments! #holyrood2026 #IvanMcKeeMSP #pensioners4indy   The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Industrial Cinematic by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

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 movement and how it could be the first step toward unity across Scotland’s pro-independence parties and organisations. With exciting plans underway for a Scottish Independence Congress, could we be witnessing the spark that reignites the passion and momentum of 2014? 🔊 Tune in for powerful insights, political strategy, and a hopeful look at how Scotland’s independence campaign is evolving for 2025 and beyond. Key moments: 00:01:57  Re-igniting the movement 00:08:03  Convention or congress? 00:15:35  The Power of the Wellbeing Economy 00:19:30   Improving relationships 00:21:20   Response from the movement? 00:25:33    i-Switch campaign - a game changer? 00:35:58   Timing for the Indy Congress 00:37:34   A Westminster 2029 de facto? 00:50:32   The disappointment of Labour #scottishindependence #believeinscotland #indycongress The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.  

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

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