63 Percent Scottish: A Scotland Appreciation Podcast

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A podcast about Scotland for people of Scottish heritage in Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and everywhere else we've ended up.We speak with top-notch journalists, best-selling authors, podcasters and distinguished academics about everything from Wallace and whisky to Irn-Bru and independence. Join us as we discover Scotland's past, present and future.

Eamon O'Flynn

Scotland, UK


    • Nov 21, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 20m AVG DURATION
    • 41 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from 63 Percent Scottish: A Scotland Appreciation Podcast

    Five Fast Questions with Nicki Scott from Historic Environment Scotland

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2024 6:46


    We asked Nicki Scott from Historic Environment Scotland five questions and challenged her to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is one place every visitor to Scotland should check out? What is your favourite uniquely Scottish word or phrase? Who is one person from Scotland's past or present that you'd like to have a beer, whisky, Irn Bru or coffee with?What is one popular misconception of Scotland that you'd like to dispel?Is there anything you'd like to know about Canada? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 21: "Four Castles" with Nicki Scott from Historic Environment Scotland

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024 36:11


    Want to discover some amazing, but not-quite-so-well-known, Scottish castles? We asked Nicki Scott, a Cultural Resources Advisor at Historic Environment Scotland, to tell us about four incredible castles that you may (or may not) have heard about. In this episode we discuss:Bishop's and Earl's PalacesKildrummy CastleHuntingtower CastleRothesay CastleHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Alan McDonnell from Trees for Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024 21:26


    We asked Alan McDonnell from Trees for Life five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is one place every visitor to Scotland should check out? What is your favourite uniquely Scottish word or phrase? Who is one person from Scotland's past or present that you'd like to have a beer, whisky, Irn Bru or coffee with?What is one popular misconception of Scotland that you'd like to dispel?Is there anything you'd like to know about Canada? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 20: "Rewilding" with Alan McDonnell from Trees for Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2024 21:26


    Did you know that Glen Coe used to be covered in trees? It's true. Scotland looked a lot different a few centuries ago. When this change happened - due to human influence, of course - it not only resulted in the loss of trees, but entire ecosystems. Thankfully, some people are trying to bring them back.We asked Alan McDonnell, the Head of Nature Restoration at Trees for Life, to tell us all about rewilding. In this episode we cover:What Scotland's historical landscape actually looked likeWhat rewilding isHow organizations like Trees for Life go about rewildingHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Garry Stevenson from Being Scottish: Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2024 13:41


    We asked the Garry Stevenson from Being Scottish five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is one place every visitor to Scotland should check out? What is your favourite uniquely Scottish word or phrase? Who is one person from Scotland's past or present that you'd like to have a beer, whisky, Irn Bru or coffee with?What is one popular misconception of Scotland that you'd like to dispel?Is there anything you'd like to know about Canada? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 19: "Bagging Munros" with Garry Stevenson from Being Scottish

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 30:07


    Scotland has its own name for mountains - they're called Munros. Well, anything over 3000 ft is a Munro, anyway. There are nearly 300 of them and there's a whole sub-culture in Scotland of people trying to climb them. It's called Munro-bagging.We asked noted Munro-bagger Garry Stevenson from Being Scottish to tell us all about his experience bagging Munros. In this episode we cover:Scotland's result in the recent Euro CupHow he got into Munro-baggingThe hardest Munro he has ever climbedThe Munro he'd recommend people start withHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Lewis McKenzie: Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 7:44


    We asked the Scottish Sun's Lewis McKenzie five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is one place every visitor to Scotland should check out? What is your favourite uniquely Scottish word or phrase? Who is one person from Scotland's past or present that you'd like to have a beer, whisky, Irn Bru or coffee with?What is one popular misconception of Scotland that you'd like to dispel?Is there anything you'd like to know about Canada? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 18: "Political Update" with Lewis McKenzie from The Scottish Sun

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2024 33:31


    Has anything political happened in the year since we last spoke to political journalist Lewis McKenzie? Well, the UK has a new Prime Minister, Scotland has a new First Minister, the SNP looks like it's on the ropes and the discussion around independence is shifting. So, yes. The answer is yes.We asked Lewis to come back to explain what all of these political upheavals really mean. In this episode we cover:What happened with Humza Yousaf, Scotland's former First MinisterWhat we should expect from John Swinney, the new First MinisterWhat Keir Starmer, the new Prime Minister, means for ScotlandThe state of the independence movementHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Dr. Marsaili MacLeod

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2024 3:24


    We asked the Sabhal Mòr Ostaig's Dr. Marsaili MacLeod five questions and challenged her to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is one place every visitor to Scotland should check out? What is your favourite uniquely Scottish word or phrase? Who is one person from Scotland's past or present that you'd like to have a beer, whisky, Irn Bru or coffee with?What is one popular misconception of Scotland that you'd like to dispel?Is there anything you'd like to know about Canada? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 17: "Gaelic" with Marsaili MacLeod from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2024 33:45


    Gaelic is the founding language of Scotland and, for a long time, its dominant language. After suffering a significant decline in usage over the last few centuries it's back on the upswing. What is this language? How is it being taught? What is the future of Gaelic?We talk to Dr. Marsaili MacLeod from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig – the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture - to learn more. In this episode we cover:The history of Sabhal Mòr OstaigThe differences between Gaelic, Scots and Irish GaelicScotland's approach to teaching GaelicWays you might learn the language from Canada or the United StatesHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Jane McGeary

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 5:26


    We asked the West Highland Way's Jane McGeary five questions and challenged her to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is one place every visitor to Scotland should check out? What is your favourite uniquely Scottish word or phrase? Who is one person from Scotland's past or present that you'd like to have a beer, whisky, Irn Bru or coffee with?What is one popular misconception of Scotland that you'd like to dispel?Is there anything you'd like to know about Canada? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 16: "The West Highland Way" with Jane McGeary from The West Highland Way

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2024 25:25


    Scotland's highland landscape is iconic. Sparkling lochs, soaring peaks and deep glens that have seen centuries of fascinating history. If you want to really experience the highlands, one great approach is to walk the West Highland Way. About 100 miles long, the Way starts in Glasgow's suburbs and winds its way to Fort William, along the way crossing some of Scotland's most renowned natural landmarks. We've asked Jane McGeary from The West Highland Way to tell us all about the Way itself. In this episode we cover:The history of the West Highland WayThe landmarks you might see along the wayHow to prepare to traverse the entire pathHow to support the maintenance of the West Highland WayHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Owen Innes: Part Three

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2024 8:47


    We asked podcaster and professional tour guide Owen Innes five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is one place every visitor to Scotland should check out? What is your favourite uniquely Scottish word or phrase? Who is one person from Scotland's past or present that you'd like to have a beer, whisky, Irn Bru or coffee with?What is one popular misconception of Scotland that you'd like to dispel?Is there anything you'd like to know about Canada? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 15: "Touring Scotland" with Owen Innes from the Scottish History Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2024 36:12


    Go to Scotland and you're bound to see tour buses on even the narrowest of roads. What kind of person becomes a tour guide? What are the major challenges of the job? Which tours would an experienced guide recommend?We've asked Owen Innes from the Scottish History Podcast to give us a rundown of his day job. In this episode we cover:How he became a tour guideA day in the life of a tour guideThe best tours he givesHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 14: "Scottish Community - Everyone Welcome" with John Sawyer from the St. Andrew's Society of Toronto

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2024 34:48


    If you're a listener of 63 Percent Scottish then I have to imagine you have *some* interest in Scotland, Scottish things or the like. If you don't live in Scotland - and most people with Scottish heritage don't! - and even if you don't have Scottish genetic heritage, you may be interested in joining a Scottish Community. Scottish Societies and St. Andrew's Societies can be found all over Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, and they provide unique opportunities to connect with Scottish culture, as well as connecting with other people who love everything Scotland.To tell us more about Scottish communities, we're talking to John Sawyer - the President of the St. Andrew's Society of Toronto. We discuss: The relative unimportance of Scottish geneticsHis own entry-point to Scottish cultureWhat a St. Andrew's Society is and how he found himself leading oneThe benefits of joining a St. Andrew's SocietyWant to join a Scottish community? Here are some groups you could check out:St. Andrew's Society of TorontoScottish Society of OttawaSt. Andrew's Society of WinnipegSt. Andrew's Society of Los AngelesSingapore St. Andrew's SocietySt. Andrew's Society of the State of New YorkChicago ScotsClans and Scottish Societies of CanadaHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Océane Lopez

    Play Episode Play 38 sec Highlight Listen Later Feb 13, 2024 9:11


    We asked educator, researcher and Instagrammer Océane Lopez five questions and challenged her to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:What is the greatest similarity between Scotland and France?What is the greatest difference between Scotland and France?If you had to have coffee, beer, whisky or wine with one person from Scottish history, who would it be?What is your absolute favourite place in all of Scotland?What is one book about Scottish history that you'd recommend?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 13: "Mary Queen of Scots" with Océane Lopez

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2024 35:45


    The simple story of Mary, Queen of Scots, is that she was born royal, killed her husband, was driven from Scotland and died after spending half her life in prison. But, if that story was the whole story, we wouldn't be talking about her - or making glitzy Holywood movies about her - 400+ years later. Why has Mary's story endured? We decided to ask Océane Lopez.Océane is a teacher and a researchers who has spent considerable time studying Mary, as well as the concepts of religion and gender in Scottish history. She's also a well-known on Instagram for sharing a fun mix of history and books. We cover:Mary's biographyThe reasons we remember Mary centuries laterA few things people might not know about MaryOcéane's thoughts on the recent film starring Saoirse Ronan and Margot RobbieA few books about Mary that you might want to check outHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Garry Stevenson from Being Scottish

    Play Episode Play 56 sec Highlight Listen Later Jan 30, 2024 8:51


    We asked Garry Stevenson, the creative mind behind Being Scottish, five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:Which portrayal of Scottish characters is most offensive - Groundskeeper Willie, Fat Bastard or Shrek?Which of Irn Bru, Haggis, Deep Fried Mars Bar and Bagpipes are actually enjoyed by Scottish people?What's the deal with Scottish people and cows?How do you pronounce "Avnosatdoonawday"?What is table and is this something non-Scots should try to consume next time we're in Scotland?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 12: "Scottish In-Jokes, Stereotypes and Tropes" with Garry Stevenson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2024 43:35


    How many words do the Scottish have for "drunk?" What exactly is a Kerbie Legend? What other cultural references or in-jokes should non-Scots know? We asked the man, the myth, the legend: Garry Stevenson. Garry is the creator behind all of your favourite content on Being Scottish, the social media-based celebration of, well, being Scottish. We cover:The origin story for Being ScottishHis aversion to stereotypes when sharing new contentThe definitions of numerous VERY SCOTTISH WORDSExplanations for a few Scottish jokes that most non-Scots wouldn't get.Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Rosalind Erskine: Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2024 7:05


    We asked Rosalind Erskine, the Food and Drink Editor at The Scotsman, five questions and challenged her to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:How long ago did you last have a haggis?Do you have Robbie Burns' poem "Address to a Haggis" memorized?What drink is the perfect accompaniment to haggis? Whisky, Irn Bru, beer or something else?If haggis wasn't Scotland's national dish, what would be? Deep fried Mars bar?What is one thing that non-Scots might not know about the culinary industry in Scotland?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 11: "Burns Suppers and Haggis" with Rosalind Erskine from The Scotsman

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2024 18:24


    Do Scottish people actually like haggis? Or is it just another Deep Fried Mars Bar - a sort of tourism trick to get attention?We asked an expert, Rosalind Erskine. She's the Food and Drink Editor at the Scotsman, one of Scotland's national newspapers, and the host of Scran, a podcast all about Scottish food. We covered:The prevalence of haggis consumption in ScotlandThe various types of haggis availableThe occasion necessary to consume haggisThen we moved on to a quiz - asking Rosalind the five quickfire questions she asks her guests. But, before all that, Eamon provided a quick 101 on Burns Suppers.Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Owen Innes: Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2023 8:31


    We've already done a Five Fast Questions with Owen Innes so we had to get creative with our questions for round two. This time we cover: What's one Scottish historical event or person that more people should know?We talked about highland culture on our episode our Culloden. Do you own a kilt? How often do you wear a kilt?What book about Scottish history would you recommend to our listeners?An enemy army is approaching Scotland. Do you settle in for a siege at Edinburgh Castle - which has never been taken - or do you head for the highlands?What is the northernmost point in Scotland that you've visited?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.Tags: scottishscotlandfilm

    EP 10: "Culloden and its Aftermath" with Owen Innes from the Scottish History Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2023 28:56


    With characters like Bonnie Prince Charlie and Flora MacDonald, key moments like Prestonpans and Culloden, and dire consequences for highland culture, it's no mystery that people are still engrossed by the stories of the 1745 Jacobite Uprising.  We've asked Owen Innes from the Scottish History Podcast to give us a rundown of the battle itself, but also its ultimate consequences. In this episode we cover:The lead-up to the battle of CullodenWhether Bonnie Prince Charlie really deserves our respectThe highland clearances following CullodenSome historical speculation about the Scots winning at CullodenHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Jonathan Melville

    Play Episode Play 48 sec Highlight Listen Later Dec 5, 2023 6:36


    We've asked author and journalist Jonathan Melville - a man who *literally* wrote the book on Local Hero - five fast questions about Scottish film. Here's what we cover:Local Hero is a great standard-bearer for Scottish film, but if you had to pick one other film to represent Scotland on the global stage, what would it be?The role of James Bond is currently vacant - which Scottish actor would be your pick to fill it?What is the most iconic Scottish film performance of all time?Where should a tourist visit in Scotland to get a better appreciation of Scottish film history and culture?Is there a definitive book on Scottish film?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 9: "Local Hero" with Jonathan Melville

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2023 49:21


    We've talked about everything from baking to whiskey to history, but 63 Percent Scottish explores a new frontier in our newest episode: film. We've chosen the film "Local Hero" which has been called the "definitive" Scottish film to discuss. Why is it a definitive representation of Scottish culture?To answer, we have journalist and author Jonathan Melville on the show. He's the author of "Local Hero: Making a Scottish Classic" - the definitive account of how this film was made, which is available in the USA and Canada. We cover:What makes "Local Hero" the definitive Scottish film?The non-stereotypical depiction of rural Scottish lifeThe message Bill Forsyth was trying to communicate with the filmThe soundtrack contributions of Glaswegian Mark KnopflerHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with the Hebridean Baker: Part Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2023 6:16


    We've already asked The Hebridean Baker - Coinneach MacLeod - five fast questions, so could we come up with five more? Of course! Here's what we cover:You've traveled the world to promote your book. When you return from your globe-trotting what's the first baked treat that you crave?Your cookbooks include a huge number of recipes, but if you had to pick just one bake to represent the Isle of Lewis forever, what would it be?You made a fantastic Christmas commercial with BBC Alba last year – we'll post it on social media so everyone can see – where you help a young girl with some holiday baking. The big question: what did you make? It looks fantastic.On a scale of 1-10, how important is whisky to baking?Last time, I asked you to help the listeners learn how to say “Hello” in Gaelic. This time, can you tell us how to say “That tastes great” or the equivalent?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    christmas music scotland scottish isle pixabay gaelic hebrides romansenykmusic hebridean baker coinneach macleod bbc alba fast questions
    EP 8: "Scottish Baking" with Coinneach MacLeod aka the Hebridean Baker

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2023 22:29


    Experiencing food is an important part of experiencing culture. Just think about it - how do you tell the culture of Detroit, New York and Chicago apart? The pizza (among other things). But seriously, food and food traditions can tell you a lot about the past and present of a culture, and Scotland is no different. We've asked Coinneach MacLeod, famous the world over as the Hebridean Baker, to tell us a bit about Scottish baking. We cover:How he got into bakingThe cultural norms that guide the Scottish style of bakingKey Scottish bakesWhether baking/food is the perfect ambassador for a cultureHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Beth Reid

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2023 5:47


    We asked Instagram historian Beth Reid five questions and challenged her to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:If you could meet one person from the Scottish Wars of Independence, who would it be?What's your second favourite era of Scottish history?If you had to recommend one place in Scotland for our listeners to visit, what would it be?You have to recommend one book about Scottish history for our listeners to read - what is it?Forgetting about history for a second, what's the most beautiful place you've ever visited in Scotland?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 7: "Women in the Scottish Wars of Independence" with Beth Reid

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2023 24:34


    Think about your top-ten Scottish historical figures. How many are women? For most people, Scottish history is simplified to William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, Bonnie Prince Charlie, etc. But women are 50% of the population and they *were* there - playing a central role - for everything from the Jacobite Uprising of 1745 to the Scottish Enlightenment.We've asked Beth Reid, a historian who has become very well known on Instagram as historywithbeth, to talk to us about the many women who played history-making roles in the Scottish Wars of Independence. We cover:The basics of the Scottish Wars of IndependenceThe reasons we should study women in historyThe story of Isabella MacDuffThe influential Queens Consort during the Scottish Wars of IndependenceWomen in combat rolesHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Lewis McKenzie

    Play Episode Play 39 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 24, 2023 6:44


    We asked Scottish Sun journalist Lewis McKenzie five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:You're a political reporter but you've worked in a few areas – including sports and comedy. All of these sound like a blast to cover. Which is the most engaging/enjoyable as a journalist?Comedy can get pretty subversive, but so can politics. Which beat has had the darkest humour?If I was to tell people “X is the heart of independence in Scotland” where would X be?For tourism-centric listeners, what's a place in Scotland that everyone should visit at least once?Finally, as someone who covers a hot button issue, I'd bet you get a bit of abuse from readers on both sides of the discussion. How do you cope?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 6: "Scottish Independence" with Lewis McKenzie from The Scottish Sun

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2023 37:15


    If anything in Scotland gets big international headlines, it's independence. While it seems simple on the surface - is Scotland part of the United Kingdom or not? - it's an incredibly complex and emotionally-charged debate. If you don't live in Scotland, you can be forgiven for not knowing the details. But if you have an interest, this is the show for you!We've asked Lewis McKenzie, a journalist at The Scottish Sun, to give us a run-down of independence movement - where it has come from, its current state and where it's going. We cover:The challenges of talking about Scottish independenceThe history of the modern Scottish independence movementThe national shift to pro-independence partiesThe potential "versions" of independence and whether it can workThe proposed benefits of independenceHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Steven Mill

    Play Episode Play 54 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 7:32


    We asked Steven Mill, the host of The Big Scottish Football Podcast, five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:Hypothetical: you move to Canada and you have to become a superfan of one major sport, do you pick baseball, hockey, American football or basketball?Please pick a team for me. This will be the team I support from now on. Why'd you pick that team?Where is the best place in Scotland to watch a football match?In Canada, you might grab a beer and nachos for a snack at a hockey game. A hot dog is the clear favourite in baseball. What's your go-to food and drink when attending a football match?What would you prefer: to be a fan of a football team that never wins or to be a player on your team's rival club and win a bunch?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 5: "Scottish Football" with Steven Mill from The Big Scottish Football Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2023 32:18


    It's *the* big sport in Scotland, but our host - Eamon O'Flynn - doesn't know anything about it! Where do you start with Scottish football? It stretches all the way back to the very origins of professional football and is intimately intertwined with Scottish culture. Could we get a Scottish Football 101? It turns out the answer is yes, thanks to Steven Mill. Steven Mill is a national radio broadcaster who can be heard every Saturday afternoon on The Big Saturday Football Show, which airs across Scotland. He's also the host of The Big Scottish Football Podcast, which publishes episodes each Monday. We cover:The basics of Scottish Football - leagues, levels, etc.The various trophies, cups and championshipsThe reason there isn't a "British Football League"Famous Scottish Football rivalriesScottish Football cultureHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with Rosalind Erskine

    Play Episode Play 50 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 26, 2023 5:53


    We asked Rosalind Erskine, the Food and Drink Editor at The Scotsman, five questions and challenged her to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:In the battle between whisky and Irn-Bru, which is Scotland's *real* national drink?Scotland has five whisky regions – if you could only choose one region to drink from for the rest of your life, which would you choose?What is your favourite whisky-based drink for the deepest darkest part of winter?The names of whisky distilleries are notoriously difficult for Canadians and Americans to say – are there any that you have trouble with?In your opinion, what is THE whisky that every aspiring whisky connoisseur needs to have in their collection?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 4: "Whisky" with Rosalind Erskine from The Scotsman

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2023 24:37


    Is Scotland a whisky nation? Is that like asking whether the sky is blue? Of course, whisky is one of Scotland's national drinks (hello Irn-Bru!) and top exports. It's packed with historical importance, too. But, do modern Scots drink it? How do they drink it? When do they drink it? If I want to celebrate my Scottish heritage do I... need to become a whisky aficianado?Rosaline Erskine is the Food and Drink Editor at The Scotsman and the host of Scran, a podcast all about Scottish food and drink. She's also a big fan of whisky. That makes her the perfect person to ask about whisky culture in modern Scotland. We cover:The source of her own love of whiskyThe difference between single cask, single malt and blended whiskiesWhere and when Scots drink whiskyHow prevalent whisky consumption is in ScotlandHow you're supposed to drink whiskyWhere you can learn more about whiskyHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Five Fast Questions with the Hebridean Baker

    Play Episode Play 51 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 12, 2023 7:54


    We asked Coinneach MacLeod, known the world over as the Hebridean Baker, five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:If I'm getting off the ferry in Stornoway what the first thing I should do on the Isle of Lewis?You've traveled the world to promote your book. Which location was LEAST like the Hebrides?Which location was the MOST like the Hebrides?If you must pick one meal to represent the Hebrides in a global cookbook, what would it be?“Hello” is the start of a great friendship. Can you teach our listeners how to say “Hello, how are you?” or the equivalent in Gaelic?Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 3: "Life in the Outer Hebrides" with Coinneach MacLeod aka the Hebridean Baker

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2023 28:25


    Have you ever wondered what it'd be like to grow up in the Outer Hebrides? Would you feel Scottish? Would you speak Gaelic? How often would you visit places like Inverness, Glasgow or Edinburgh? How, in general, is life different from any other part of Scotland? Coinneach MacLeod is known around the world as the Hebridean Baker. A "food influencer" with substantial Instagram and TikTok audiences, he's also a best-selling author with two cookbooks in bookstores now and a third on the way. We cover: The Isle of LewisConnections to the rest of Scotland, including historical traditionThe Outer Hebridean worldviewthe Gaelic languageWhat people don't know about the Isle of Lewis and the HebridesHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Mini-Episode: Five Fast Questions with Owen Innes

    Play Episode Play 56 sec Highlight Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 8:20


    Welcome to our first Five Fast Questions mini-episode. We asked Owen Innes, the creator and host of the Scottish History Podcast, five questions and challenged him to answer each in one minute or less. Here are the questions:If you were able to meet any single person from Scottish history, who would it be? If you could recommend just one historical location (castle, battlefield, etc.) to our listeners, what would it be? As a Scot, which accent in Scotland do you have the most trouble understanding? You must pick one film to represent Scotland forevermore. Which film is it? What is the most interesting era in Scottish history? Have thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 2: "Why William Wallace?" with Owen Innes from the Scottish History Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2023 32:58


    Have you ever wondered why William Wallace is such an important person in Scottish history? Or, are you wondering why I'm even questioning his place in Scottish history? Here's the deal - he came from obscurity, was a prominent military leader for less than six months, disappeared for five years and then was killed. It doesn't sound like much, but 700 years later the world's biggest movie star made a massive blockbuster about him. We all know who William Wallace was, but I want to know WHY?!?To answer the question I've spoken with Owen Innes, the creator and host of the wildly successful Scottish History Podcast. We cover:The basics of William WallaceHow Braveheart has shaped our understanding of William WallaceWilliam Wallace's enduring legacyHow Scottish people think of William Wallace todayHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    EP 1: "Where to begin?" with Dr. Kevin James from the University of Guelph

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2023 40:45


    Where do you even begin when you're trying to discover your Scottish heritage? That's the question that host Eamon O'Flynn tries to tackle in the first episode of 63 Percent Scottish. He enlists the help of longtime friend Dr. Kevin James, the Scottish Studies Foundation Chair and Professor of History at the University of Guelph. We talk about:The Centre for Scottish Studies at the University of GuelphResearch in Scottish tourism and travel historySurprising elements of Scottish culturePotential future topics for 63 Percent ScottishHave thoughts? Connect with 63 Percent Scottish on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram or contact us at 63percentscottish.com.Music by RomanSenykMusic from Pixabay.

    Trailer: 63 Percent Scottish

    Play Episode Play 59 sec Highlight Listen Later Aug 8, 2023 1:00


    Are you interested in Scotland's history, society and culture? For host Eamon O'Flynn, the surprise discovery that he's 63 Percent Scottish led him to record discussions with award-winning journalists, best-selling authors, renowned academics and popular podcasters about everything from whisky and Wallace to Irn-Bru and independence. Listen every week on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you find your favourite podcasts, or simply visit 63percentscottish.com. We're also on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Connect today!

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