Blethered

Billy Porter's name is synonymous with Glasgow in the 1980s and 90s, where he was a hugely popular comedian in the pubs, clubs and venues of Glasgow and the west of Scotland.Known for his quick thinking, sharp wit and on-the-edge humour, he was a cult favourite, and since his move to Tenerife in 2008, he’s been a must-see for any Scots travelling to the island on holiday. Billy tells me about growing up in Shettleston in a family not blessed with an abundance of wealth, the same as most in that era…He reflects on the impact of realising he was gay, in a harsh and unkind era, when it came to homosexuality…And he speaks very candidly about his challenges with alcoholism, and the years through which the laughter flowed every night, but rarely from him.You’ll know Billy Porter the comedian, but this conversation is Billy Porter the son, the brother, the husband, the friend, the wee guy from Shettleston and the man he eventually came to be.Bily's Instagram Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roz Foyer is the General Secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress and one of the most influential voices in the Scottish labour movement. With decades of experience representing workers across public and private sectors, she is a leading advocate on fair work, pay, equality, and employment rights. In practical terms, she represents the collective voice of hundreds of thousands of workers, meaning her positions can shape national conversations, legislative priorities, and real-life outcomes.During this never-ending period of economic pressure, wage erosion, industrial unrest, and sociopolitical uncertainty in Scotland, Roz articulates worker concerns in language that resonates both with grassroots members and policymakers, making her a credible power broker rather than a purely symbolic advocate.In real-terms: she’s a key figure in Scottish life, and is fiercely on the side of the interests of the working man and woman.You’ll hear us talking about Roz’s formative years in the working world, and how she ended up at the forefront of the trade union movement…We discuss the economic difficulties faced by people in Scottish communities, and how they’re fuelling things like flags being hung from lampposts, and what those flags really represent…And we get into potentially uncomfortable territory. The Daily Mail recently attacked Roz on the basis that she owns some properties. Is it counterproductive and hypocritical for a trade union leader to own more than one home? Or is it completely disingenuous and propagandist output from the usual suspects, that falls apart at the slightest scrutiny? You can decide that one for yourself, I don’t think it’ll take you long.And as always, there’s so much more in there - and a chat I hope you enjoy as much as I did. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the story of two Scottish rappers who pretended to be American, signed to the biggest record label on earth, made a fortune, toured with Eminem and D12, appeared on MTV, recorded multiple albums, before eventually being rumbled. I’m joined by Gavin Bain - one half of the now defunct rap duo Silibil N' Brains - who originated in the Scottish city of Dundee. After multiple rejections, they decided to pretend to be from California, and to their surprise, enjoyed immediate success. Their unbelievable story is now the subject of a biographical film - California Schemin’ - directed by Hollywood heavyweight James McAvoy. The film is based on Gavin’s autobiography, Straight Outta Scotland, but in typical Blethered style, I want to hear about the detail behind the detail, and the nuances of what drove him to pursue the life that he did, and the experiences that made him who he was. You’ll hear about growing up in South Africa, how lucid dreams become prophetic previews of his life events, moving to Motherwell and then Dundee, and how the characterisation that his musical adventure was anything other than unequivocal creative and commercial success, is truly wide of the mark.Gavin and his coconspirator and close friend Billy Boyd’s story is one of the most jaw dropping, hilariously unfathomable and absurd that I’ve ever heard. Make sure you go and see the film when it’s out in early 2026.Spanish Club at Zique's Hyndlandcontact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spanish language exchange at Ziques in Hyndland, Glasgow6th January 20265-7pm & 7-9pmUnlimited pintxos!Enjoy a relaxed setting with native speakers and learners of all levelsOpen to all TICKETS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scotland heads into an election while housing, public services and the cost of living pile pressure onto people’s lives. In that climate, the Greens are trying to set out what they stand for – after time in government and time out of it – and explain the role they believe they can play in Scotland’s future.Against the rise of the far right across Europe and growing political frustration at home, clarity is important. I’m here to ask direct questions, listen properly, and give guests the space to explain themselves without distortion. You can decide what you think for yourself.Game 4 Padel comes to Dundee!contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall for Aye Write 2025 book festivalThis episode digs into why so many young men are being drawn into the darker corners of the internet, and what’s actually happening inside those spaces. I sit down with journalist James Bloodworth and author Chris McQueer, whose new books approach the same world from different angles. One through investigation, the other through fiction.We examine how loneliness, identity, class, online culture and modern masculinity collide. There are pressures pushing young men toward isolated digital communities, the narratives they find once they’re there, and the sinister influences filling the gaps left by real-life connection and purpose.It’s a grounded, honest and unflinching look at an issue affecting families, schools and communities across the country – and what it might take to bring these young men back into the world around them.Lost Boys by James BloodworthHermit by Chris McQueerThe Anchor Inverclydecontact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colin Brown is the founder of Gambling LEAP, which stands for Lived Experience, Education, Awareness and Prevention. Colin lived with gambling addiction for over 25 years, eventually finding the strength and resolve to turn things around, but not before a number of intense challenges and setbacks throughout his life. He now hopes to use his experience and relative success in managing his addiction, to serve as a help and signpost for anyone currently going through the same experience. In this episode, Colin explains how addiction crept in and how it manifests itself in every facet of life, work and relationships… We discuss the predatory nature of the gambling industry itself, and how football and entertainment are complicit in its destruction And Colin offers his insight into tackling gambling addiction, both for those suffering with the affliction, and also for those close to gambling addicts. If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast, there are some helpful links in the episode notes, but more importantly, there are some genuinely helpful points and information throughout the conversation. If you enjoy it or find it helpful, then don’t be shy in sharing it with others. You never know who might benefit from seeing it. Gambling LEAPNational Gambling HelplineSupport for Families of Gambling Addictscontact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Benji Waterhouse sits at an intersection of acute psychiatry and stand-up comedy. A consultant psychiatrist and comic, his book You Don't Have To Be Mad To Work Here offers a sharp, humane account of what really happens inside our mental-health system – and the toll it takes on those working within it.In this episode, recorded live at the Aye Write 2025 book festival in Glasgow, we explore the thin line between illness and ordinary life, how humour becomes a coping tool, and why some of our most familiar stories about "chemical imbalance" may be causing more harm than good.Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the Aye Write Book Festival 2025 in Glasgow at the Royal Concert Hall – a live conversation with Scottish authors Irvine Welsh and John Niven.We get into their latest books and dive deep into the big stuff: existential questions, the chaos of the digital age, addiction, love, masculinity, and plenty more in between.contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Radio presenterJonny Campbell looks back on his early days in commercial radio, starting out at West FM and then Clyde 1, before making the jump from Clyde 1 to Capital Scotland.There’s funny chat and some discussion around accents, Tourette’s syndrome, the 90’s radio voice, and men dressing up in dresses for Beyonce tickets.The main reason for this conversation, however, was to discuss both the subject - and Jonny and his wife Kirsten’s experience - of miscarriage. They sadly endured three miscarriages, before the joy of welcoming their gorgeous baby daughter Molly in October of this year.It’s estimated that 1 in 4 pregnancies will end in miscarriage, but it’s one of the subjects that remains largely untouched when it comes to open conversation. My aim here is to hold out a loving embrace for whoever needs to hear it. Whether you or your partner, or someone else close to you, has experienced miscarriage, the emotion will run deep, and possibly remain deep within.Sometimes the first step to healing is the realisation that you’re not alone, even when it feels like you are. I hope – if you need it – that you get that from this chat between two daft Scottish guys who end up expressing a lot of love, care and emotion.Oh and you’ll also hear about the time I convinced my pal Keni that he was live on Real Radio back in 2007. That is absolutely worth waiting until the end for.Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com https://www.tommys.org/baby-loss-support/miscarriage-information-and-support Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Aimen Dean went from al-Qaeda member to undercover MI6 operative — his full account of recruitment, betrayal and escape. Aimen tells a never-before-told story about his haunting interaction with the lead-hijacker of the September 11th attacks in New York City...We hear about Aimen's decision to join MI6 as an undercover spy, and the extensive debriefing process in Scotland...Aimen discusses his progression into mainstream media such as Newsnight and the Conflicted podcast...And Aimen reflects on the issue of 'returning jihadists', and the controversial case of Shamima Begum.Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First published in January 2024, but it’s worth a share for those who may benefit from it.I speak to men's sobriety coach Liam about the relationship that society - especially in Scotland - has with drinking… We reflect on our own personal dynamic with booze and the heavy effects of drinking too much, too frequently...And we get into some uncomfortable territory about the darker overhang and aftermath of binge drinking.What you’re about to listen to is a genuine conversation about alcohol, and how we feel about it. We’re not trying to talk you, or ourselves, into anything. We’re just talking, and you’re invited to listen in. And we’re glad that you are.Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.comhttps://www.instagram.com/liamconlan_sp/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 1 of Blethered Live at SWG3 in Glasgow, with former MI6 Spy Aimen Dean.Aimen talks about his early life in Saudi Arabia and how religious clerics shaped his young mindset...His decision to go and fight in Bosnia at 16 years old, in defence of Bosnian Muslims, and the horrors that he saw...And about when his path first crossed with Osama bin Laden.And as always, there's plenty more. Contact: seanmcdonald,podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The pervasive, mendacious and downright malevolent diatribe directed towards immigrants in the UK – or those wrongly categorised as such – irrespective of their social, economic or citizenship status, is at what feels like an all time high. So who better to hear from than someone who’s experiencing this continuing embarrassment to Britain. Step forward, Aarti Joshi. Aarti is a good friend of mine and was previously a guest on Blethered back in 2021, where we discussed what it’s like to be a Scottish-indian woman in a so-called man’s world. Aarti is a strong-willed, intelligent, Scottish woman who is fiercely proud of her heritage, and so she should be. I knew she’d give me a no-holds barred account of what life has been like lately. The trigger point for this sit-down was the sudden appearance of flags hung from lampposts, all over North Glasgow, where I’m from. This was irrefutably and undeniably an attempt to intimidate those deemed to be nonindigenous from Scotland and the UK in general, and it succeeded in its attempt to instil fear in those it was aimed at.In the face of bullies, and especially in that vein, neutrally is not an option. It’s silent support of the systematic bullying and scapegoating of people who do not deserve it. I’m not standing by and watching it happen without doing something, and neither should you.To claim you’re apolitical, in the face of grotesque unfairness and injustice, is an intrinsically political choice. Don’t sit this one out. Believe it or not, after such a morally indignant monologue from me, this chat is genuinely full of laughs. It’s two pals chatting about the state of the world as we see it, and we’ve pulled up a seat for you, as well.contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all know someone who brags about never stopping, but what looks like productivity is often burnout – and it quietly erodes health, relationships, and enjoyment of life.Dr Aisan joins me to explain what burnout really is, how to recognise it before it takes hold, and why recovery starts with reframing rest as strength, rather than weakness. We discuss practical steps for spotting the signs, breaking the cycle, and building a healthier, more sustainable way of living.While burnout has a devastating personal impact, it also carries a wider cost for businesses and the economy – draining creativity, productivity, and staff wellbeing. Understanding and addressing it benefits us all.Dr Aisan's InstagramWatch on YouTubecontact: seanmcdonald,podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this follow up episode, I chat with expert pharmacist Sehar Shahid about the recent UK price increase of weight-loss drug Mounjaro, the consequences of turning to the black market, and how she aims to help people in the way that's best for them, and not solely for business profit.Price increases will see a spike in counterfeit medicine, meaning a spike in people suffering adverse side affects, ranging from serious health issues to fatalities. Complete your personal weight-loss consultation with 24 Hr Pharmacy24 Hr Pharmacy on Instagramcontact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sally is an SNP candidate for the upcoming Scottish Elections in May next year, for Edinburgh Southern, and is currently Head of Office for SNP MP Graham Leadbitter.In this episode we get into the detail of why Sally has decided to put herself in the firing line of frontline politics, and the volatile nature of the political landscape in general…We get into her credentials as a party staff member and all that she’s achieved and been recognised for, as it’s quite the list… plus an insight into working in the heart of The House of Commons…A major talking point is the irrefutably sharp rise in violence against women, and the change Sally would like to influence if elected to Holyrood…And I ask some uncomfortable questions (if you’re part of the SNP). Did the tide carry all boats in their 2015 General Election domination? Is nineteen years too long for one party to remain in control?And as always, there’s plenty more.Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lee’s star in the world of comedy is rapidly rising and has been for quite a while. If you haven’t seen him on stage, then you’re very likely to have seen one of his many viral videos, online. To quote the man himself: Only Slags Use Plastic Bags.In this episode we talk about Lee’s early days growing up in Grimsby, before going to university in Manchester. He explains his first steps in comedy and how that very quickly turned in to a full time career...We discuss comedy as an art-form – including how it’s almost always meticulous preparation masquerading as complete spontaneity…And we look at his work behind the scenes, warming up crowds on shows like Loose Women, Strictly Come Dancing and Big Brother – and how that teaches control, discipline and trust in the moment.Plus: touring with some of the biggest names in the UK, including Judi Love and Jason Manford… his own foray into podcasting, and why giving him any form of power will very quickly corrupt him.Lee performs regularly all around the UK, so be sure to check his social media to find out where he’ll be, you’ll be glad you did.Lee's InstagramHot World Cuisine on Instagramwww.hotworldcuisine.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paddy’s sold out the SSE Arena in Belfast multiple times, and he’s back again in October to the same level of demand. The SSE’s about the same capacity as the Hydro in Glasgow – so that’s a good gauge of where he’s at.He’s got that acerbic wit and ruthless humour that’s typical of Belfast, and just as common in Glasgow – something we get into in detail.Paddy talks about growing up in the middle of an active civil-war zone, and the blunt, brutal reality of it…You’ll hear his take on how we can keep moving forward sociopolitically on both sides of the Irish Sea – and why he doesn’t want a United Ireland if it means steamrolling the other side of the divide…And he explains how a brutal point in his life became the exact catalyst for getting into comedy – and taking the scene by storm.This was recorded backstage before Paddy’s gig at Grace’s Irish Centre in Glasgow, with Pierce Higgins supporting him, so there’s a bit of background noise – but nothing you can’t handle.Most of the noise is actually the crowd laughing at Pierce’s set – another solid sign of a comedian you should catch when you can — and I was delighted when he sat down for a quick chat as well.Pierce talks about getting into comedy and sharpening his craft – writing, refining, and learning to thrive in dynamic and sometimes hostile environments…He tells me about touring with the legendary Gary Faulds – another top-class comic straight out of Glasgow…And why he explains why he’s staying in the comedy game, no matter where life takes him.Paddy's InstagramPierce's InstagramContact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alfie’s Edinburgh Fringe Show ‘Dropped’ intimately tells his very personal tale of being picked up by Chelsea Football Club’s prestigious academy, before being unceremoniously discarded after a routine medical uncovered a congenital heart defect. After then moving on to North West London side Barnet, he remarkably found himself in and around the first team at only 15 years old, and at one point playing in midfield with Champions League Winner Edgar Davids. Politics, personal dynamics and luck then begin to play their part, and suddenly the door is closed, and like thousands before and after him, Alfie finds himself on the periphery of a world that had once promised him so much.The show is on at the Edinburgh Fringe this year, and will be live at Easter Road Stadium from the second to the tenth of August - and this conversation is your own personal, intimate preview.We talk about what it was like to train with Frank Lampard, Jose Mourinho and John Terry, and where some of his former teammates are now…, plus a funny and fascinating insight into the enigmatic Davids was like as a manager…Alfie talks about the crisis of identity and feelings of suicidal ideation when the world seemed to be closing in, an experience I’ve had myself, and sadly one that former Manchester City player Jeremy Wisten followed through on in 2020…And you’ll hear about the darker sides of football, predatory coaches being one of them; An intensely uncomfortable truth that Alfie handles with admirable strength and exemplary poise. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.comGET YOUR TICKETS HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.