Podcast appearances and mentions of Lesley Riddoch

It is a week of brutal purges, shifting cabinets, and dramatic resets across the London political landscape. Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson deliver their analysis on a fast-moving news cycle as Prime Minister Andy Burnham takes the keys to Number 10 and Sir Keir Starmer retreats to the pub with his ousted frontbench. From cutting energy VAT and scrapping the digital ID scheme to breaking news of a desperate Thames Water bailout offer, they strip away the Westminster spin to ask if this newer Labour administration can truly 'rewire' Britain or if it's all just temporary vibes. In this episode, we discuss:The Burnham Purge & Starmer's Pub of the Damned: An breakdown of the cabinet reshuffle that saw Sir Keir Starmer replaced by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. We analyze the northern-heavy cabinet, including Ed Miliband's move to Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper at Health, Miata Fanabulla entering Net Zero, and Louise Haigh's return, while disgruntled Starmerites lick their wounds over pints in a London pub.Ditching the Digital ID for Energy VAT Cuts: We unpick Burnham's headline policy—saving billpayers a modest £45 a year by cutting the 5% domestic energy VAT, funded by axing the digital ID scheme. We look at the OBR's warnings that these departmental savings are completely unidentified and look to Estonia to explain why a genuine, trust-based society is required to build a real digital nation.Devolution Contradictions & Jack McConnell: Former First Minister Jack McConnell took to the airwaves to defend the new devolution agenda, but we examine how he quickly tied himself in knots over energy control. We explore Labour's deep disconnect with rural Scotland and why Burnham's plans to emulate Germany's federalised government structure ignore truly local government.The Thames Water Legal Tussle: Breaking news hits the podcast mid-record as a consortium of lenders offers a "golden share" to the UK government to prevent Thames Water from crashing into nationalisation. Lesley explains why the Burnham government should actively welcome a high-profile legal fight with foreign private equity firms to prove they mean business.Housing First in Finland and Scotland: We look at the long-term success of Helsinki's Housing First program, which dramatically cuts emergency service costs by providing stable housing and community support before tackling addiction. With 26 out of Scotland's 32 local authorities already operating Housing First, we note that Scotland is already leading the way where England struggles.Deconstructing Starmer's Wooden Exit: While the mainstream commentariat swooned over Starmer's final PMQs, we pull away the Emperor's clothes. From his absolute refusal to admit to policy U-turns to his viral primary school anecdote, we explain how his hand-picked gallery guests failed to mask his legacy of two-child benefit caps and winter fuel cuts.Summer Break & Bramble Homework: The podcast takes its summer recess for the next two weeks, returning on Tuesday, August 11th. Fraser sets your holiday homework to challenge your local MPs and MSPs on independence, while Lesley provides a far sweeter alternative: get out to pick this year's bumper crop of mega-brambles and make your own ice cream!LinksGlasgow Times River Clyde Pool Project - https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/26290574.ambitious-plans-floating-swimming-pool-river-clyde/Finland Film - https://youtu.be/J1mpytgMIBU?si=k_Gz8hmFwM7J_k3TLesley's Bramble Ice Cream Recipe - https://www.bakedbyanintrovert.com/fresh-blackberry-ice-cream-no-churn/#recipe ★ Support this podcast ★

Guests include former Welsh government minister Lee Waters on the future of transport in Wales, political commentator and podcaster Lesley Riddoch and political scientist, Professor Sir John Curtice, on the future of the SNP after the Murrell crisis. Blair expert (he teaches a course on aspects of the Blair governments) and chief political commentator John Rentoul discusses the intervention by former PM, Sir Tony Blair, on the future of the party and Cold War historian Sergey Radchenko considers the political impact of a Russian drone hitting an apartment block in NATO country, Romania. And in the week when we've experienced record temperatures, Professor Bill McGuire looks at what the climate might be like in the 2050s. And in our regular series of introducing you to new politicians in the Senedd, we hear from Labour MS Shavannah Taj about the impact that her family and her teachers had on her politics

There's been a backlash against UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in local and regional elections across England, Scotland, and Wales, despite a huge parliamentary majority. He's rejecting calls to quit, but faces new challenges from both the left and the right. So, why are these elections so significant? In this episode: Peter Geoghegan, Editor of the investigative news site Democracy for Sale. Lesley Riddoch, Podcaster, journalist and author of 'Blossom: What Scotland Needs to Flourish'. Tim Bale, Professor of Politics at Queen Mary University of London. Host: Mohammed Jamjoom Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

How many crises can unfold over a single bank holiday weekend? This week, Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson try to make sense of a surreal and frightening international backdrop as Donald Trump issues terrifying new threats against Iran. Closer to home, Lesley shares her experiences travelling around the Northwest of Scotland filming about the clearances in Strathnaver and she highlights the very real local anxiety over petrol shortages and the impact of the NC500 "boy racers" sooking up all the fuel.We look again at CalMac ferries. The MV Lord of the Isles might be back in service, but a new tender for her replacement has been published with zero "social value" criteria baked into the scoring—meaning local companies won't get extra points over foreign competitors. We discuss the unions' anger and the structural split between CMAL and CalMac.We look at the Scottish election campaign. With discussions around whether to vote SNP with both votes, we examine the tactical voting dilemma, the Lib Dems snapping at the heels of the SNP in the Highlands, and the urgent need for a bold 'Highland manifesto'. Plus, a look at the struggles of Reform UK and a plea for some real, breakthrough domestic policies from the SNP.In this episode:International Crisis: The escalating tensions between Donald Trump and Iran, and the global anxiety it is causing.Highland Fuel Shortages: The impact of the NC500 on local communities and the anxiety over petrol in the Northwest.Ferry Procurement: Why the new tender for the Lord of the Isles replacement lacks "social value" criteria.CalMac & CMAL: The structural issues dividing the two bodiesScottish Election: SNP list seat strategies, the Lib Dem challenge in the Highlands, and why the SNP needs a distinct Highland manifesto.Reform UK: Their disastrous start to the Holyrood campaign.Links:Talking Up Scotland blogUnion angry at no 'social value' score in new shipbuilding contractBarren Scotland - double bill film screeningSunday 12 April at 2pm, Newport on Tayhttps://www.ticketsource.com/the-larick-centre-tayport-community-trust/t-dkkjorm ★ Support this podcast ★

How many crises can unfold over a single bank holiday weekend? This week, Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson try to make sense of a surreal and frightening international backdrop as Donald Trump issues terrifying new threats against Iran. Closer to home, Lesley shares her experiences travelling around the Northwest of Scotland filming about the clearances in Strathnaver and she highlights the very real local anxiety over petrol shortages and the impact of the NC500 "boy racers" sooking up all the fuel.We look again at CalMac ferries. The MV Lord of the Isles might be back in service, but a new tender for her replacement has been published with zero "social value" criteria baked into the scoring—meaning local companies won't get extra points over foreign competitors. We discuss the unions' anger and the structural split between CMAL and CalMac.We look at the Scottish election campaign. With discussions around whether to vote SNP with both votes, we examine the tactical voting dilemma, the Lib Dems snapping at the heels of the SNP in the Highlands, and the urgent need for a bold 'Highland manifesto'. Plus, a look at the struggles of Reform UK and a plea for some real, breakthrough domestic policies from the SNP.In this episode:International Crisis: The escalating tensions between Donald Trump and Iran, and the global anxiety it is causing.Highland Fuel Shortages: The impact of the NC500 on local communities and the anxiety over petrol in the Northwest.Ferry Procurement: Why the new tender for the Lord of the Isles replacement lacks "social value" criteria.CalMac & CMAL: The structural issues dividing the two bodiesScottish Election: SNP list seat strategies, the Lib Dem challenge in the Highlands, and why the SNP needs a distinct Highland manifesto.Reform UK: Their disastrous start to the Holyrood campaign.Links:Talking Up Scotland blogUnion angry at no 'social value' score in new shipbuilding contractBarren Scotland - double bill film screeningSunday 12 April at 2pm, Newport on Tayhttps://www.ticketsource.com/the-larick-centre-tayport-community-trust/t-dkkjorm ★ Support this podcast ★

How many legal problems can you fall into in the space of a single podcast? This week, Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson navigate a potential minefield of four major legal and political controversies. We dive into the ongoing sagas involving Peter Mandelson and the Trade Ambassador formerly known as Prince Andrew.Closer to home, we dissect the row over the Lord Advocate and the revelations surrounding the timing of Peter Murrell's charges being shared with the First Minister. We also look at the shock announcement that the Alba Party are unlikely to contest the Holyrood election, blaming financial and regulatory problems alleged to have been caused by their former General Secretary.But it's not all legal drama; we look at the ideas that could truly transform the face of Scotland. From local control to community wealth building, we discuss how empowering communities can shift our mindset and boost the economy. In this episode:The Legal "Big Four": Mandelson, Prince Andrew, the Lord Advocate, and the Alba Party.Peter Murrell & The First Minister: the dual role of Scotland's Lord Advocate.Transforming Scotland: Why local control and community wealth building matter more than ever.By-election Watch: Can Labour hang one?LinksSupport the podcast with a monthly or annual subscriptionhttps://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribeCommunity Wealth Buildinghttps://www.thenational.scot/politics/25867601.holyrood-act-prove-revolutionary-empowering-communities/Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@fridayseconomics/video/7594406782802464013Gordon Brown as Private Investigator articlehttps://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/feb/25/why-gordon-brown-delving-deep-into-epstein-filesExcellent Simon Pearson substackhttps://simonpearson1.substack.com/p/the-only-politics-on-offer?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=3669870&post_id=188725593&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=1wdpld&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=emailEverybody to Kenmure Street filmreview https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/feb/24/power-pyjamas-everybody-to-kenmure-street-glasgow-immigrationSearch local screemnngs - 'everybody to kenmure street showtimes' ★ Support this podcast ★

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.

Former Wales Office advisor Lauren McEvatt discusses Robert Jenrick's defection to Reform. Prof Scott Lucas analyses the latest on the US and Greenland, ahead of the Senedd debate on the health committee's report on obesity, Dr Sue Kenneally is in the studio. Scottish journalist and podcaster Lesley Riddoch recalls the history of Scottish Labour since the dawn of devolution and former number 10 advisor and journalist Guto Harri remembers u-turns of governments past.Cllr Dmitri Batrouni of Newport Council and Dr Emma Yhnell review the papers.

Lesley Riddoch, the pro-Scottish Independence journalist, and campaigner, joins Siôn Jobbins to discuss the importance of the ownership of assets, local control of services, and Scotland and Wales' international context as we campaign for independence.* Lesley Riddoch Youtube channel - excellent documentaries on the Nordic nations and independence and also ecology and land ownership: https://www.youtube.com/@Lesley_Riddoch * Lesley Riddoch podcast:https://www.lesleyriddoch.com/ - discussions and articles  * Lesley's speech at the YesCymru independence rally in Rhyl October 2025:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p98c3RCp9ig* Ireland's Future - 'paving the way for the reunification of the Island': https://irelandsfuture.com/* D.J. Davies - Welsh economist and nationalist inspired by the Danish and Nordic social and economic moder in the 1920-40s:https://biography.wales/article/s2-DAVI-JAM-1893#?c=0&m=0&s=0&cv=218&manifest=https%3A%2F%2Fdamsssl.llgc.org.uk%2Fiiif%2F2.0%2F5150024%2Fmanifest.json&xywh=202%2C783%2C1127%2C972 * The Flotilla Effect: Europe's small economies through the eye of the storm - Adam Price MS and Ben Levinger:https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/plaid2016/pages/1256/attachments/original/1490110494/Flotilla_Effect_-_Adam_Price_and_Ben_Levinger.pdf?1490110494* The Phenomenon of Welshness II - includes article on the Faroe Islands: https://carreg-gwalch.cymru/products/phenomenon-of-welshness-2-the?pr_prod_strat=e5_desc&pr_rec_id=eda70b5b4&pr_rec_pid=9247233016109&pr_ref_pid=9247233114413&pr_seq=uniformRadio YesCymru 13/11/25 Series 7, Episode 1

Alex Forsyth presents political debate from the Dundee Bairns warehouse in Dundee

We continue our exploration of local housing issues on Islay and Jura. This time Russell discusses the core issue of land ownership and particularly the role of community buyouts with Lesley Riddoch, the award-winning broadcaster, journalist, author, cyclist, land reform campaigner and lover of all things Nordic.For all our podcasts, visit thisisislay.co.uk FeaturingGuest: Lesley Riddoch lesleyriddoch.com Host: Russell PollockAcknowledgementsProduction team : Jolyon Thurgood, Gordon Bermingham and the crew.Music by ⁠Ievgen Poltavskyi⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠ (333111)

With both the Scottish and UK Parliaments back in session today, there is a back to school vibe for this week's podcast. After a quite week last week everything is kicking up a gear. We look at the Keir Starmer's mini mini reshuffle, which is a lot less sensational than expected, but seems to be centralizing power in Number 10. We talk about the number of departures from the Scottish Conservatives, and the fact that one of them, Graham Simpson going to Reform, might jeopardize the recall petition idea that he is pushing through as a private member's Bill.We also talk about the Scottish Green's leadership election and what that might mean in terms of new leadership, the energy price cap, and Kemi Badenoch: drill, baby, drill. All of that and more. Home Truths for Home Rule3pm Kirkcudbright Parish Church Saturday 6th Septhttps://kbtfringe.com/events/06-09-2025-15-00-home-truths-for-home-rule-scotland-after-25-years-of-devolutionScotland's Parliament, established over 25 years ago, has changed how we do politics. But has its record and impact been as significant as its advocates claim? What have been its successes - and what could it do better? People feel increasingly alienated by party politics and the centralisation of ‘Edinburgh knows best'. How if at all can this change? Join journalist and campaigner Lesley Riddoch and former First Minister Henry McLeish assess the impact of devolution, the contours of next year's Scottish elections, and what Scotland's future should look like and how we might get there.LinksOn Sept 13 & 14 at Netherbow Theatre in Storytelling Centre Royal Mile Edinburgh 7pm.https://scottishstorytellingcentre.online.red61.co.uk/event/913:6226/“The Invaders' Fear of Memories” is a theatre piece based on the life and diaries of Yosef Nachmani – a Russian Jew who migrated from Tsarist Russia to Ottoman Palestine in 1907. Nachmani became Director of the Jewish National Fund in the Galilee and subsequently played a central role in the ethnic cleansing of Palestine's indigenous people. The play offers a perspective into the origins of settler-colonialism and apartheid in modern-day Israel, exploring themes of loyalty, violence, ideology, and grief.The Invaders' Fear of Memories is performed by Benjamin Rivers, the great grandson of Nachmani. Over the course of the play, Rivers performs 12 characters and sings in Arabic, Hebrew, Ukrainian, and Yiddish.Tam Dean Burn as guest actor and a panel of distinguished academics for post screening Q&ASince August 2023, The Invaders' Fear of Memories has been performed to audiences across four continents.Also Peter Kennard's new exhibition “GAZA” from 6pm on Friday August 8th at 13A Dundas Street, Edinburgh, EH3 6QG extended till end September.FREE SPEECH AGAINST THE GENOCIDE rally2pm Saturday Sept 6th Queen Elizabeth House (Scotland Office) Edinburghhttps://www.scottishpsc.org.ukThe Promise https://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-promisehttps://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-promiseClaire Foy and Christian Cooke star in Peter Kosminsky's BAFTA-nominated drama. Eighteen-year-old Erin sets out on an emotional journey when she retraces her grandfather's footsteps in Palestine. ★ Support this podcast ★

On this week's episode, we talk about the putative new Left-wing party possibly headed by Jeremy Corbyn. We speculate on why he hasn't said he will join it and what is happening on the Scottish front with a group that's promising a meeting in October. It's not very clear whether it supports independence or not.We talk about the victory of a left candidate for the Democratic nomination in New York City with a program that would probably make Jeremy Corbyn's heart sing.We're still talking about the wider question of Palestine and the shameful decision by the SNP group at Westminster to abstain on the vote on Palestine Action as they succumbed to Westminster bullying tactics and were outfoxed by Labour's procedural shenanigans. We reflect that in the previous parliament, with MPs like Tommy Sheppard, Dr Phillipa Whitford and Joanna Cherry, this would not have happened. That and much more besides, including bits and bits about the Western Isles and the, uh, glorious bounciness of Greenlanders.And we have a guest spot with Mick Napier from the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign ahead of a planned demonstration.1 pm meeting at the foot of the Mound, Edinburgh. LinksFinland Film  https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/finland---the-education-superstars-a-new-filmNHS Apphttps://www.digitalhealth.net/2024/10/scotland-s-digital-front-door-platform-to-go-beyond-the-nhs-app/https://www.holyrood.com/inside-politics/view%2Cplaying-catchup-will-the-rollout-of-the-long-overdue-nhs-app-help-take-pressure-off-scotlands-gpsCnoc Soilleirhttps://www.nwh.uhi.ac.uk/en/about-us/campuses-and-centres/cnoc-soilleir/Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson ★ Support this podcast ★

Will Russia agree to a ceasefire? Political analyst and youtuber Vlad Vexler gives us the inside track on Russian opinion on the war. Economist Linda Yueh explains how US tariffs affects world trade and former Welsh government minister Jane Davidson is with us to celebrate 10 years of the Future Generations Act - what is it and what has it achieved? Nicola Sturgeon is standing down from Holyrood at the next Scottish election. Veteran broadcaster Lesley Riddoch talks about her legacy. After twenty years of research, Professor Kevin Morgan from Cardiff University has published a book, 'Serving the Public'. He tells us why he thinks free school meals is a wonderful Welsh innovation. Cardiff County Councillor Rodney Berman and Anna Brychan from the University of Wales Trinity St Davids review the Sunday papers.

Here's the first topic of today's Talk Media. To hear the full episode go to www.patreon.com/talkmedia

Auchnerran Farm is run by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust as a demonstration farm to test and trial conservation and land management strategies. Mark visits the farm to hear about their projects and how they manage these alongside a profitable enterprise of sheep farming.It is the 20th anniversary of the opening of Five Sister's Zoo this year, and the facility has grown from very small beginnings to now housing over 160 species on site in West Calder. Rachel chats to Brian and Gary Curran about their growth over the last two decades and their recent attempts to rescue zoo animals from Ukraine.2025 marks 20 years since the Scottish Outdoor Access Code came into force, and Mark is joined by journalist and broadcaster Lesley Riddoch to look at exactly how this has impacted Scotland's relationship with the outdoors.Rachel is on the banks of Loch Lomond visiting a project attempting to combat erosion on one of Scotland's most popular hills. Conic Hill has undergone a £900,000 path restoration, and access officer Dave Robinson meets her to explain why such a project is so necessary.Mark is at Dunnottar Castle, one of the locations featured in Lewis Grassic Gibbon's novel Sunset Song. Speaking to Emily Cruickshank, Mark finds out the history of the castle and spots some of the wildlife that surrounds it.Mark and Rachel are joined by a lifelong scholar of Lewis Grassic Gibbon's work, Bill Malcolm, to find out more about the author's background and the incredible impact he has made on Scottish literature, even 90 years on from his death.It is the height of Snowdrop season, with many gardens across Scotland opening their gates for visitors to enjoy the carpet of white flowers. Mark visits Bruckhills Croft in Rothienorman and meets Helen Rushton, whose garden boasts nearly 600 different varieties of the plant.Back at Five Sister's Zoo, Rachel finds out about the important work the zoo does in partnership with the Beavers Trust, managing populations across Scotland.Mark heads to Charlesfield Farm and meets Trevor and Lorna Jackson, the couple behind Border's Bubbly, who are hoping to be the first sparkling wine producers in Scotland

Fiona and Marlene share their highlights from the Big Land Question conference. In November the Revive Coalition held their biggest conference yet bringing together organisations and individuals with a shared interest in Scotland's land. Who owns it? What do they do with it? Is there a better way? These, and many more questions were covered on the day and you can watch the full day's event on  @IndependenceLive  's channel. This podcast covers our favourite bits from the following speakers: 00:01:43 - Lesley Riddoch introduces the event 00:07:42 - Kevin Cumming, Scottish Rewilding Alliance 00:16:07 - Josh Doble, Community Land Scotland 00:28:19 - Kirsty Jenkins. Onekind 00:30:32 - River Roding Interspecies Council 00:36:22- Jenny Barlow, Tarras Valley Nature Reserve 00:44:27 - Mhairi McFarlane, Diffley Partnership 00:51:09 - Donna Smith, Scottish Crofting Association 00:57:03 - Lesley Riddoch, Intro to part 2 01:02:03 - Robin McAlpine, Commonweal 01:09:41 - Mike Russell, Scottish Land Commission 01:14:05 - Max Wiesnowski, Revive Coalition Further info: Community Land Scotland https://www.communitylandscotland.org.uk/ Scottish Rewilding Nation Charter https://www.rewild.scot/charter The Scottish Independence Podcasts 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

The Owning Our Futures event held in Edinburgh in October was a great opportunity to see our quest for independence in the context of other nations and regions across Europe who share similar aims.   The delegates took  part in three Q and A panels and brought their wisdom, experience and fresh thinking to the table.   Organised by the Scottish Independence Convention and the International Committee for European Citizens and chaired by Lesley Riddoch, this was a positive and uplifting event. Panels and speakers : 00:01:51  Panel 1 questions 00:02:06  Begotxu Olaizola Elordi, Basque Country 00:03:53  Alessandro Cucci, Sardinia 00:04:44  Anna Arque i Solsona, Catalonia 00:10:13  Panel 2 questions 00:11:16  Nick Peeters, Flanders 00:15:13  Paul Descarli, South Tyrol 00:16:53  Aka Hansen, Greenland 00:20:09  Bjort Samuelsen, Faroe Islands 00:27:59  Panel 3 questions 00:28:47 Gwern Gwynfil, Wales 00:33:07  Isobel Lindsay, Scotland 00:37:17  Richard Walker, Northumbria 00:38:28  Kerron O'Luain, Ireland 00:43:51   Lesley Riddoch closing remarks You can watch our previous episode with highlights from the delegate presentations here: https://youtu.be/A4J1hE04Y2M?si=dcpBUvxXvhdwCbna You can also watch the full livestream of the event on  @IndependenceLive   #scottishindependence #icec #conferencehighlights The Scottish Independence Podcasts 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  

Scotland has practically the largest units of local government in the world.  An average Scottish council has 175,000 people compared to an average across the EU of 10,000.  There seems to be widespread consensus that something needs to be done about the over-centralisation of Scotland, but little agreement about what that should be. A group of individuals from a range of backgrounds - activists, academics, trade unionists and more - have set themselves the task of raising the profile of this democratic deficit and engaging the public and politicians in a discussion about how to address it. Indypodcasters have been presenting a series of podcasts on the topic of the kind of national conversation Scots are having and this seemed a perfect fit for that series so we went along to the launch event which was held in Edinburgh on 9th September 2024.   This is our recording of the public launch event.  You can find out more from the website www.buildlocal.scot  You can also sign the declaration calling for citizens' assemblies to gather evidence and recommend solutions here https://buildlocal.scot/sign-the-declaration/ Panel presentations were: 00:01:11    Introduction by Joyce McMillan, Scotsman columnist and theatre critic 00:04:17    Esther Roberton, former co-ordinator of the Scottish Constitutional Convention 00:08:00    Dave Watson,  Director of the Jimmy Reid Foundation 00:14:16     Willie Sullivan, Senior director for campaigns Electoral Reform Society 00:20:42      Ewan Aitken, Former Labour Councillor and COSLA spokesperson 00:28:36      Lesley Riddoch, Director of Nordic Horizons, filmmaker and award winning journalist 00:37:23      Q and A 00:07:39       Next steps   The Scottish Independence Podcasts team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Thanks to everyone who supports us by buying us a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts You can also nominate us as your good cause on www.Easyfundraising.org.uk Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod  

On 18th September 2024 we marked the 10th anniversary of the historic first Scottish Independence Referendum, Indyref for short.  During a passionate and exhilarating campaign, support for the Yes side grew from around 30% to over 50% before settling back at 45% on the day of the vote.  In the words of Professor Sir John Curtace, the Yes side lost the vote but we won the campaign.  Support for independence has hovered around the 50% mark for the last decade. Campaign group Believe In Scotland organised events throughout Scotland to mark the occasion.  The mood was reflective, but upbeat and determined.  We are STILL YES.   Speeches from the Holyrood rally: 00:00:48   Gordon MacIntyre Kemp, founder of Believe In Scotland 00:12:56    Lesley Riddoch, award winning journalist, author, filmmaker 00:28:32    Richard Walker, Editor of the Sunday National 00:40:31    Andrew Barr, co-founder of the National Collective 00:46:52    Gordon MacIntyre Kemp You can contribute to the Believe in Scotland crowdfunder here https://www.believeinscotland.org/crowdfunder2024 Independence Live's crowdfunder is here https://independencelive.net/crowdfunder/   The Scottish Independence Podcasts team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Buy us a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts You can also nominate us as your good cause on www.Easyfundraising.org.uk Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod     

There are political stories everywhere you look, so which one should lead the news? James Harding is joined by three guests to discuss the first few days of Keir Starmer's government, the prime minister's visit to Scotland and France's shock election result.Email: newsmeeting@tortoisemedia.comGuests:Cat Neilan, political editor at TortoiseJess Winch, news editor at Tortoise,Lesley Riddoch, broadcaster and columnist at The NationalHost: James Harding, editor-in-chief at TortoiseProducer: Rebecca Moore and Casey MagloireExecutive producer: Lewis VickersTo find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK is set to vote in a general election this week - called by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak whose conservative party has been in power for fourteen years. Polls suggest his rival, Labour leader Keir Starmer, could replace him. So, what are the issues - and how significant is this election?  In this episode: Will Hutton, President, UK's Academy of Social Sciences. Lesley Riddoch, Author, 'Blossom - What Scotland Needs to Flourish'.  Pablo O'Hana, Senior Political Adviser.  Host: Dareen Abughaida  Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

In this special edition of the Lesley Riddoch podcast we give our immediate reaction to and analysis of Rishi Sunak's surprise announcement of a General Election on the 4th of July. ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to our roundup of topical clips and snippets for January 2024.  Main themes covered this month are: 00:00:53  Calling out war crimes 00:05:47  Covid enquiry 00:09:35  Scottish budget 00:15:48   Holyrood snippets 00:21:15   UK General Election  00:34:59   Westminster hot topics 00:40:23   Horizon scandal 00:44:57   Lesley Riddoch chats with Jim Byrne 00:51:02   Indypodcasters out and about 00:54:02   Time for Scotland by the Singing Councillors   The Scottish Independence Podcasts 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 to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips  

Episode 195 of the Common Weal Policy PodcastYou can download the episode directly here.Welcome to Season 6 of the Common Weal Policy Podcast. This year's theme is "Activate" so if you have a story to tell about an interesting thing happening in your community or if you're involved in a campaign to change things for the better, then please get in touch and we'll get you on the show to talk about it.This week, Craig talks to Lesley Riddoch about her new film Denmark: The State of Happiness. Denmark is a nation in many ways similar to Scotland but one that has made many different choices. They discuss the similarities and differences between our two nations and what Scotland could do to move towards or at least learn lessons from a nation that is both one of the richest in Europe and regularly tops wellbeing league tables.Lesley is currently touring with her film and you can book tickets at: https://lesleyriddoch.com/eventsCommon Weal's work is only possible thanks to our generous supporters who regularly donate an average of £10 per month. If you would like to help us build our vision of an All of Us First Scotland, you can do so here: https://commonweal.scot/donate/The Policy Podcast would like to discuss all of Common Weal's policy papers in detail as well as other major policy stories in and around Scotland so if there are any topics that you would like to see covered or if you have an interesting policy story to tell and would like to be a guest on the show, please contact Craig at craig@common.scotYou can also find us on iTunes, Spotify, Castbox, Stitcher, Tunein, iHeart Radio and other major podcast aggregators.You can also add the podcast to your RSS feed using this link: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/264906.rssThemeExcerpts from "Hiding Your Reality" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Support the show

Award winning broadcaster Lesley Riddoch joins us to chat about her new film Denmark: the State of Happiness.  The film is currently on tour all around Scotland with a Q+A session with Lesley at each screening. For details of dates, times, venues and to book tickets, go to www.lesleyriddoch.com/events This is the 5th film in Lesley's series looking at the Nordic countries, you can find all her other films at www.lesleyriddoch.com/films key points include: 00:00:54 Dan Jorgensen - happiness is important 00:01:34 Welcome to Lesley 00:02:15 Losing an empire 00:05:34 Audience reactions 00:10:20 Not just for indy supporters 00:16:18 Danish Education system 00:17:07 Larissa Albus - taxes are a good thing 00:19:38 Jannick Marshall - Efterskole 00:22:49 Samso islanders fuel bills cut 00:25:04 cause for optimism? 00:28:28 national self confidence 00:30:47 issues based conversations 00:31:41 cultural summer school and other ideas 00:38:01 the future for indy media   Also mentioned in our discussion is Independence Centre Stage from our Mibbes Aye series which you can watch here:  or check out our website here  The Scottish Independence Podcasts 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 to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips Music: "Inspired" by Kevin MacLeod

Join us for our last roundup of topical clips for 2023! Topics include: 00:00:50 Covid come-uppance for Johnson and Mone 00:05:45 George Monbiot savages the Tory Rwanda Bill 00:08:40 Alison Thewlis picks holes in the Tory Rwanda Bill 00:10:58 Joanna Cherry highlights the illegality of the Rwanda Bill 00:12:55 Scottish Parliament legislates for the children's rights 00:17:35 Joanna Cherry explains Tories breaching the Treaty of Union 00:24:56 Neale Hanvey shares international legal opinion 00:28:12 Secret Agent Alister Jack reports 00:31:32 Westminster quick fire round up 00:35:48 Holyrood quick fire round up 00:40:49 Patrick Harvie explains green alternatives to nuclear power 00:43:00 Bill Ramsay on dangers of nuclear power and climate instability 00:44:32 Europe for Scotland petition 00:48:32 Lesley Riddoch on keeping up our profile in Europe 00:54:14 Midwinter at Maeshowe, a poem by Alison Miller 00:58:26 A Christmas thought ... Thanks for listening everybody, please subscribe and share! Links mentioned in this podcast: Alison Thewlis longer Rwanda speech Europe for Scotland petition The Scottish Independence Podcasts team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts. Remember to like and subscribe! ontact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot/ for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips

Lesley Riddoch chats with Jim about her new film, Denmark - the State of Happiness Jim & Pat's Glasgow West End Chat - Episode 100 Welcome to Jim & Pat's Glasgow West End Chat. Remarkably, this is episode 100. Hurrah! Well done to us. :-)  This is the second half of my chat with the esteemed broadcaster, podcaster, journalist and filmmaker Lesley Riddoch. In part one, we learned about Lesley's formative years and we learned about the background to the making of her latest film, Denmark - the State of Happiness. In this second part of our chat, Lesley talks about the film itself and explains exactly why you must go and see it. And I agree.  It's a fabulous film. If you get a chance to see it, grab a ticket and go along. You'll enjoy it.  Links Pat's Guide To Glasgow West End Pat on Twitter Lesley Riddoch Music by Jim Byrne

Lesley Riddoch talks to Jim Byrne about, ‘Denmark - the State of Happiness'.  And more. Part 1 of 2 Episode 99 of Jim & Pat's Glasgow West End Chat Lesley Riddoch is a tour de force. She is a political activist, pioneering publisher, writer, podcaster, independence and land-reform campaigner and, last but not least, a role model for women in Scotland and far beyond.  It was great to chat with Lesley about her student days at Oxford, her work in both the mainstream and independent media, the current state of Scottish politics and. of course, about the making of her latest film, 'Denmark - the State of Happiness'. It's a brilliant, inspirational film that I recommend you seek out.  I guarantee you will enjoy this chat. Lesley is forthright, a natural storyteller and always speaks directly from her heart. Not only will you enjoy the podcast, it will be an education. Links Pat's Guide To Glasgow West End Pat on Twitter Lesley Riddoch Music by Jim Byrne

Topical snippets from Scottish politics and activism in November: 00:01:08  Festival for Survival opening by Lynn Jamieson  00:04:09  Jean Urquhart marches in Ullapool 00:06:07  Revive conference opening by Chris Packham 00:10:43  Lesley Riddoch speaking at the Breakup of Britain event 00:16:10   Our Star in Scotland - former MEP Julie Ward explains Erasmus 00:18:47   Holyrood -  Trams Enquiry  00:21:34   Net Zero committee on the circular economy 00:27:21   Scotland's Census 00:29:04   Rwanda plan ruled unlawful 00:31:12   How others see us 00:35:45   Westminster - will Kemi Badenoch devolve employment law? 00:36:42    Deirdre Brock vs Penny Mordant 00:39:54    Scottish affairs committee science enquiry 00:41:54    Neale Hanvey responds to the King's Speech 00:45:40    Alex Salmond preaches forgiveness in Alba conference speech 00:53:50     Alex Salmond sues Scotgov 00:55:23      Protest choir sings for a cease-fire outside of Colonial HQ "Contains information licensed under the Scottish Parliament Copyright Licence". Protest choir footage by Mike Fenwick  The Scottish Independence Podcasts 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 to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips      

All the speeches from the rally organised by Yes 4 EU and Believe in Scotland which took place in Edinburgh on 2nd September outside of Holyrood.  Speakers are: 00:00:32    Lesley Riddoch (author and journalist) 00:06:57    Jamie Hepburn (Minister for Independence) 00:11:25    Lorna slater (co leader Scottish Greens) 00:16:16    Claude Detrez (Europe for Scotland) 00:23:52     Believe in Scotland Youth Wing 00:28:00     Iona Fyfe (folk singer) 00:33:30     Humza Yousaf (First Minister) 00:47:12     Gordon  MacIntyre-Kemp (Believe in Scotland) 00:52:39      Morag Williamson (Yes 4 EU) 00:54:52       Signoff The Scottish Independence Podcasts 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 Check out our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips Music Upbeat Corporate by Rinkevitch Music

June's round up of topical clips from the world of Scottish politics and culture presented by a rather croaky-voiced Fiona (thanks to a touch of hayfever) and guest presenter James.  Topics covered this month are: 00:00:24  A written constitution for Scotland 00:06:27  A legal opinion on flaws in the Supreme Court Decision 00:11:43  Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp on the impact of a wellbeing economy on polling results 00:20:48  Lesley Riddoch on local government and community action 00:33:11  Alister Jack stirring up trouble 00:40:32   DRS woes continue 00:46:57   Report confirms Johnson is a liar 00:52:40   US presidential candidate nominations 00:58:17   Sign off "Contains information licensed under the Scottish Parliament Copyright Licence". The Indypodcast team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe! Contact: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Check out our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for video footage and clips  

Lesley Riddoch gives a fascinating presentation to launch her new book Thrive: The Freedom to Flourish. Hosted by the Perth Yes Hub at the Bell Library in Perth, Lesley reads excerpts from the book and shares a selection of  anecdotes. She draws inspiration from our Nordic neighbours and those Scots who have decided to get on with whatever needs to be done to allow their communities to thrive. You can order a copy from Lesleyriddoch.com or all good bookshops Music: Motivational Upbeat corporate by Rinkevich Music The Indypodcast team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe! Contact: indypodcasters@gmail.com Visit scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes

Most Scots seemed largely indifferent to the Coronation which was certainly not reflected in the wall to wall obsequiousness of the mainstream media offering. Instead we decided to escape the TV to join more than 20 thousand pals on a wee jaunt through Glasgow.  Marlene and Fiona battled the elements to create an outdoor podcast recording with, it has to be said, mixed results, but here are all the best bits of the day! Obviously we can't bring the spectacle and colour of an independence march to an audio podcast, but you can watch clips and the video version of this podcast on our Youtube channel Scottish Independence Podcasts Indypod Extra Chapters: 0.00   Intro 4:41   The excitement builds 9:18   A flavour of the march 11:49  Inside the studio tent 15:38  Lesley Riddoch's speech 22:52  More from the tent 25:54  Alex Salmond's speech 28:20   Rainy reporting 30:50    Joanna Cherry's speech 33:37   Post march reflections 35:20   Yes stones brilliant tally 39:39   Heading home 42:59    End   music:  Upbeat corporate by Rinkevitch music

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by a dynamic duo of author and commentator Lesley Riddoch and Big Issue editor Paul McNamee. This week : Today, Our Views on the Scottish News, Murdoch fires Tucker Carlson and The Big Issue Northern edition to close after 30 years. This week's listener question is from David McParland. Recommendations: Stuart: 2022 Booker Prize-winning novel: The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Sri Lankan author, Shehan Karunatilaka. A photographer in the afterlife sets out to expose the carnage of Sri Lanka's Civil Wars, in a novel filled with humour and pathos. https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-seven-moons-of-maali-almeida/shehan-karunatilaka/9781908745903 Lesley: Blue Lights: Belfast based drama `Blue Lights' follows new police recruits Grace, Annie, and Tommy, as they learn the ropes in a high-pressure environment. Grace is a former social worker who has decided to switch careers in her forties, Annie has had to leave everything she knows behind, and Tommy finds it challenging to be on the frontline. The team deal with divided communities, criminal gangs, and struggle to know who to trust, all the while wondering if they have made the right choice in joining the PSNI. Blue Lights airs Mondays at 9pm on BBC One, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-65069989 Lesley's bibliography https://www.waterstones.com/author/lesley-riddoch/52415 Lesley podcast https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast Lesley's book 'THRIVE' as referenced in the podcast is available on pre-order now from  https://lesleyriddoch.com/shop-mobile. Eamonn: New York Times opinion piece by Thomas Friedman: Why Kamala Harris Matters So Much in 2024 https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/25/opinion/kamala-harris-joe-biden-2024-reelection.html Paul McNamee: Ryuichi Sakamoto 12 The cult Japanese musician and composer Ryuichi Sakamoto is back with all new album, “12”, via Milan Records. The 12 compositions were recorded by Ryuichi Sakamoto in Tokyo during his 2-year long fight with cancer throughout 2021-2022. The album, his 15th so far, is the first of new solo material since 2017. The album's twelve tracks are titled and sequenced by the dates each were written, culminating in a diary-like collection of music that provides an intimate snapshot into this period of Sakamoto's life. https://sakamoto.bandcamp.com/album/12 The Big Issue https://www.bigissue.com/

Today we speak to Scottish pundit Lesley Riddoch an award-winning broadcaster, journalist and author about Scotland's new first minister and the issues faced by the SNP.Humza Yousaf has pledged to be a "first minister for all of Scotland" after being chosen by party members to replace Nicola Sturgeon. Mr Yousaf, who had been serving as health secretary, also vowed to "kickstart" a grassroots campaign that would "ensure our drive for independence is in fifth gear".Here are some of the other issues that are looming in his in-tray:The mammoth task required fixing the problems across health and social care. More than 600,000 people are on a waiting list; A&E departments are regularly full; one in every six patients in hospital cannot get out, despite being ready to be discharged.Education: Before the pandemic, the Scottish government saw education as its defining mission. It wanted to be judged by its progress in raising attainment and helping children and young people from disadvantaged areas. Inevitably, the pandemic has thrown up new problems which are still real issues.Scotland's business lobbies hope for a reset in their relations with Bute House. Several feel their concerns have taken a low priority under Nicola Sturgeon.Climate change: Tackling climate change was one of Nicola Sturgeon's priorities, with the Scottish Parliament setting some of the most ambitious targets in the world. But year after year those targets have been missed and the government's independent advisers have said Scotland's lead has been lost.The government's track record on the NHS is never far from a political rammy, but increasingly those working within health and social care are asking policymakers to step back from arguing among themselves and give some candid consideration to what kind of reform is needed. The new FM says his priority is to recover and reform the NHS but he won't deviate from its founding principle, to be free at the point of use. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Sturgeon caught us all on the hop with her surprise resignation. In this special episode, John Drummond chats with journalist Lesley Riddoch and Believe in Scotland CEO Gordon MacIntyre Kemp about the impact on the Yes movement and where we go from here. Whatever your views on her achievements as a politician and campaigner, nobody can deny that she has put in one hell of a shift as First Minister.  We thank her and we wish her well for the future, whatever it might hold.

Supreme Court judges have decided unanimously that an Indyref2 vote cannot go ahead without the UK parliament's permission. But it's not the end of the debate – or Scotland's First Minister's fight to break free from Great Britain. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson looks at what the judgment means both politically and legally with our Scotland correspondent Connor Gillies. Plus, reaction from both sides of the debate as we speak to Kevin Hague, chair of pro-union think tank These Islands, and Lesley Riddoch, columnist for Scottish papers The Herald and The National, who supports Scottish independence. Annie Joyce – senior podcast producer Alys Bowen – interviews producer Philly Beaumont – editor

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and podcaster, Lesley Riddoch. This week - Gordon Brown wades in on food banks, new warships in Glasgow, Joe Lycett's challenge to David Beckham and a listener question about how the media reports on emergency services. Towards the end of the show...media recommendations! To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia After I've joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details. For more information about Talk Media, go to: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Finland has a 1300 km long land border with Russia, fought two wars in the 1940s to defend then reclaim territory, and is now applying to join NATO. There, most knowledge of the country ends.Which is a shame.Because a staple of Finnish life could offer a permanent solution to supply crises in Britain – using cooperatives not corporations to deliver. During a cycle on the Finnish-owned Aland Islands Lesley used cooperatively-owned ferries. This year, during a summer trip to the Sibelius Festival in the Finnish city of Lahti,  she visited the cooperatively run Housing Fair, the Metsalitto Forest cooperative (which has 100 thousand members), stayed at the cooperatively owned Solo Sokos Hotel in Lahti - part of the huge S-Group cooperative with more than 3 million members and passed cooperatively owned shops, businesses and banks at every stage of her journey.How does it all work?Lesley Riddoch went to Finland's seventh largest city to find out. With thanks to Risto Turanen, Kari Huhtala, VisitFinland, Finnair and Sokos Hotels.    ★ Support this podcast ★

As we await the outcome of the Supreme Court hearing on 11th/12th October, Falkirk Friends of Yes arranged a public panel discussion and audience Q+A to discuss campaigning ideas. The panel members are: Lesley Riddoch, Broadcaster and author Grant Thoms, lobbyist, academic and SNP activist Neil MacLeod, Christians for Independence Gillian McKay , MSP  Scottish Greens There was a slight issue with the sound right at the beginning of the event but we pick up the discussion just a little way into the opening speech from the first speaker. Music is  Motivational Upbeat Corporate by RinkevichMusic https://soundcloud.com/rinkevichmusic Video Link: https://youtu.be/U78mgVaM12M  

It is a sad fact that fewer than 500 people own 57% of the private land in Scotland. The Scottish Government are consulting on a proposed Land Reform Bill.  This is open until 25th September, so we take a look at the proposals up for consultation.  With the help of two case studies - Flamingo Land's revised bid to take over Balloch and the Loch Lomond waterfront and the possibility of an islanders hostile buy out from the absentee landlord on Great Bernera - we look at some of the issues that this consultation brings to light - and many that it doesn't even begin to cover. We have contributions from Lesley Riddoch and Robin McAlpine via Commonweal's expert panel discussion plus excerpts from members debates in Holyrood. Find the Scotgov consultation here: https://consult.gov.scot/agriculture-and-rural-economy/land-reform-net-zero-scotland/ find commonweal's website here: https://commonweal.scot/ Contains information licensed under the Scottish Parliament copyright licence. Music is "Inspired" by Kevin MacLeod 

Welcome to our monthly round-up of topical titbits!  This month regular presenter Fiona is joined by James, another member of the Indylive Podcast team to share our opinions on the issues arising in June 2022. Subjects up for discussion are: Alternative Jubilee events Westminster's agenda of shame including cost of living crisis, Rwanda deportation flight, the assault on the Human Rights Act and the colonial arrogance of the Scottish Affairs Committee Holyrood - another inspirational Time for Reflection, putting the record straight about the census returns, explaining the basics of devolved budgets to the finance committee The independence campaign heats up including activism from Dumfries, a positive take on the opportunities that borders bring,  Murdo Fraser's fantasy island and Lesley Riddoch having the last word Thanks for listening!  

Guests include: Welsh Conservative MP David Jones, who is a member of the Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee, Plaid Cymru MP Hywel Williams, Mark Barry who is a Professor of Practice in Connectivity at Cardiff University, Lesley Riddoch is a journalist, broadcaster and columnist, Adam Morris, is a former head of media for the Scottish Conservatives and director of Shorthand PR, Catherine Nicholson is the European Affairs Editor for France 24 TV, Andrea Cleaver is the Chief Executive of the Welsh Refugee Council and Joel James is the Conservative MS for South Wales Central and the shadow minister for social partnership.

With guest Mike Russell, this week we look at the benefits of a written constitution for an independent Scotland.   Mike tells us about the work being done with grassroots groups to develop an interim constitution.  We also have a look at the Icelandic example of a crowdsourced constitution and take to the streets to hear from the citizens of Milngavie, Glasgow Icelandic clip comes from the Nation series of films from Phantom Power and Lesley Riddoch, you can see these on Phantom Power's Youtube channel.  The article about the Icelandic constitution which we mentioned in the podcast is: https://grapevine.is/mag/feature/2020/11/09/where-is-the-new-constitution/ You can watch the video versions of the Indy Jigsaw Show on Independence Live's Youtube channel  Visit our website https://podcasts.independencelive.net to see more of our podcasts, blogs and you are welcome to sign up to our monthly newsletter too! THANKS FOR LISTENING

Eamonn and Shona are joined by broadcaster and journalist, Lesley Riddoch. This week - police speak to Nicola Sturgeon about mask-wearing rules, the UK Government's Rwanda plan, the launch of TalkTV and a listener question on putting politicians on the spot. At the end of the show, Eamonn, Shona and Lesley share their personal media recommendations. To listen to the full hour-long episode, and for a full list of recommendations, join the Talk Media Club (99p per week + VAT): patreon.com/talkmedia After I've joined the club, how do I listen? Download the Patreon app (iOS/Android) and login with your account details.

David Pratt, Kevin McKenna and Lesley Riddoch join National editor Callum Baird to discuss "What next for independence?" ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Music from Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/sun-shine-down License code: CPHVIWGTLIHJK0LU See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

With the Scottish parliament election less than a week away, Jack Blanchard looks back at the history of the Scottish nationalist movement and explains how it shifted from a fringe pursuit to perhaps the majority view in Scotland.Former First Ministers Alex Salmond and Jack McConnell — who between them ran the Scottish government for more than 13 years — discuss the collapse of Scottish Labour in the mid 2000s and the extraordinary rise of the SNP. Scottish Cabinet Minister Mike Russell explains what first attracted him to the nationalist movement in the 1970s, while independence campaigner and columnist Lesley Riddoch talks about her own conversion to the cause ahead of the 2014 referendum. Historian Dr. Ben Jackson discusses the movement's early struggles and the development of nationalist thought, while the Daily Record's Torcuil Crichton analyzes the cultural and global shifts behind the SNP's march to power. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Obviously you weren't expecting there would be any UK wide celebrations of The Declaration of Arbroath, were you? However, the indy movement has stepped up and we've had the documentary by Lesley Riddoch and Charlie Stuart, and there will be an illustrated version too.For my own part, I decided just to read the whole thing, not the few quotes we usually hear, and make it available as audio, so here it is. Obviously I read the translation from the National Library of Scotland, not the original Latin.Doing it, it was easy to see how it is in part a plea, partly a statement of intent, in one part an offer, and in another part a threat.A truly interesting document. A pity that no one in British broadcasting seems to think so (I know there are other things going on right now, however if they had had any intention of doing anything it would have been planned and done before the coronavirus outbreak).Hope you enjoy.http://michaelgreenwell.wordpress.com/https://www.facebook.com/TheScottishIndependencePodcasthttp://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6_LfMf1z6erDXSCHfw6_Bw/videoshttps://twitter.com/mgreenwell