Yes Cowal Scottish Independence Podcast

With Scotland's parliamentary elections just around the corner, we're bringing you Countdown to Holyrood—our take on the 2026 campaign. In this series, we sit down with politicians from across the independence spectrum to discuss their vision for Scotland's future. From policy priorities to campaign strategies, hear directly from the candidates and party representatives shaping the conversation leading up to May's election. Our first guest is Laura Moodie, South of Scotland candidate for the Scottish Green Party.   Key themes: 00:01:06  Campaigning in Southern Scotland region 00:04:30   Transport issues 00:07:21   Infrastructure preparations for an independent Scotland 00:09:10  Energy security 00:10:20   Overcoming the extractive model 00:11:15   The Deposit Return Scheme 00:13:50   Pushing at the boundaries 00:15:52   Assisted dying bill 00:20:22   Our PR parliament subverted? 00:28:36   Iceland's EU referendum implications 00:32:02   Personal priorities for government 00:34:46   Community wealth building 0

The Believe in Scotland march and rally in Edinburgh last Saturday was a colourful, noisy and joyful affair.  In this bonus podcast we bring you Marlene's vox Pops - people she chatted with while waiting for the march to get going.  Then we head on up to iconic Calton Hill for some of the speeches from the stage. 00:00:47  Vox Pops from the Royal Mile 00:18:09  Speeches from the rally You can watch our video of the march here https://youtu.be/fVGNpsXvXCU?si=P5-_tVk0t3r3m2qi In addition to our regular Friday episodes, look out for more bonus Tuesday podcasts from us as we head towards that crucial  Holyrood election on 7th May. #holyrood2026 #believeinscotland #scottishindependence The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Get in touch: Email:  indypodcasters@gmail.com  Bluesky: @scottishindypod Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and mo

Join us for the 5th Annual Jim McVicar Memorial Lecture, hosted by the Scottish Socialist Party. The event is opened by Richie Venton who shares heartfelt personal memories of Jim McVicar, painting a picture of the man who inspired this moving tribute. This year's lecture is delivered by SSP's national co-spokesperson and former MSP Colin Fox.  The topic is both timely and provocative- Socialist answers to ReformUK, an incisive examination of why the socialist left stands in opposition to Reform's far right political agenda. Key sections: 00:00:17 Introduction by Richie Venton 00:11:03 Memorial Lecture delivered by Colin Fox Find out more about the Scottish Socialist Party here https://scottishsocialistparty.org/ #scottishsocialistparty #scottishpolitics #jimmcvicarlecture   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: @scotti

Energy bills are soaring, and Scotland's future hangs in the balance. In this episode, we tackle the complexity of Scotland's energy market with Dr Craig Dalzell from Commonweal, exploring whether First Minister John Swinney's bold claim that independence could cut Scottish bills by a third holds water. We unpack the intricate dynamics of energy pricing, the potential economic benefits of Scottish energy independence, and the critical difference between community benefit agreements and true community ownership.  And what would real change look like for Scottish households struggling with rising costs? Key themes: 00:03:39  Energy networks - who does what? 00:08:40  Low cost energy with independence - John Swinney's plan 00:10:29  Can we cut bills by a third?  How? 00:20:18   How are electricity charges set? 00:26:14   Fiona and Marlene's energy bills 00:36:00   A view from the Faroes - Hannah Mary Goodlad 00:38:36    Energy and community benefit 00:48:55   Energy rich Scotland = Energy rich Scots - John Swinn

What happens when you combine stunning stained glass art with Glasgow's public libraries? Magic! Join Fiona and Marlene as they hunt for the beautiful windows created by artist Keira McLean in partnership with local communities.  From the stories and political perspective behind each piece to the impact these artworks have had on their neighborhoods, this episode celebrates creativity in unexpected places. Perfect for art lovers, activists,  Glasgow enthusiasts, and anyone who believes public spaces should inspire. We also hear about Keira's latest exciting projects and share our thoughts on Holyrood 2026! Key themes: 00:21:46  Our stained glass safari 00:10:45   Keeping the craft alive 00:14:57   Working with local communities 00:23:31   New project - the Craigallian fire 00:28:54   Hidden history on our doorsteps 00:32:23   And even more new projects 00:40:45    Our thoughts on Holyrood 2026  #stainedglassart #communitycreativity #glasgow The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday se

This Bonus Tuesday episode comes from the Scottish CND protest rally at Faslane on 14th March. Despite near freezing temperatures and relentless rain, hundreds gathered at Faslane naval base to demand nuclear disarmament. Scottish CND brought together speakers and singers calling for de-escalation and a world free from nuclear weapons. In the face of rising global tensions, activists braved the elements to voice their urgent message: there's another way. Speakers: 00:01:47  Bishop McGee (Argyll & the Isles) 00:04:23  Ron Culley (Author) 00:09:05  Marian Pallister (Pax Christi Scotland) 00:14:10  Protest in Harmony (choir) 00:17:10  Sophie bolt (CND UK) 00:22:33  Brad Oliver (Veterans for Peace) 00:24:16  Kate Whitaker (FoE Scotland) 00:29:58  JC Bigfoot (singer) 00:32:42  Cara McKee (Scottish Green Party) 00:40:42  Coll McCail (Stop the War Scotland) 00:44:18   Iona Soper (Secure Scotland) 00:49:56   Jean Urquhart (activist) 00:52:48   Rebecca Thomson (ICAN) Find out more : Scottish CND  https://banthebom

Former UK ambassador Craig Murray joins Glasgow Pensioners for Independence for a hard-hitting discussion on the growing breakdown of the international legal order. From selective enforcement of global rules to the erosion of institutions meant to uphold them, the conversation explores how power politics is reshaping the world stage. What does this changing landscape mean for nations seeking self-determination? Could a weakening international system make recognition of new states easier — or harder? And where might Scotland fit into an increasingly unstable global order? Drawing on decades of diplomatic experience, Craig Murray offers candid insights into international law, geopolitics, and the real-world challenges facing independence movements today. Key topics: 00:01:25 The rise of the billionaires 00:04:44 Venezuela vs Kelloggs 00:09:46 The demise of international law 00:22:37 Why the UK is a rogue state 00:26:44 how would an indy Scotland behave? 00:29:43 Declaring Scottish independence 00:38:50 Preparin

Edinburgh Women for Independence host a lively and thought-provoking hustings as Holyrood candidates Simita Kumar (SNP) and Ally Maxwell (SSP) go head-to-head. Representing the Scottish National Party and the Scottish Socialist Party respectively, both candidates tackle a wide range of audience questions — from the future of Scotland’s democracy to social justice, equality, and economic priorities. In a spirited but respectful exchange, two impressive women set out their visions for Scotland’s future and highlight the importance of strong female voices in our proportional representation parliamentary system. Key points: 00:02:57 Simita Kumar opening address 00:09:34 Ally Maxwell opening address 00:17:23 Audience questions 00:22:08 Response from Ally 00:26:15 Response from Simita 00:38:12 Audience questions 00:47:52 Simita responds 00:53:24 Ally responds 00:57:00 Ally quizzes Simita 01:04:59 Simita quizzes Ally 01:13:11 General discussion #holyrood2026 #hustings #womenforindependence find out more aobut Edinbu

We chat to Believe in Scotland founder Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp about the biggest event on our March calendar - the "End London Rule" march and rally for independence in Edinburgh on 28th March 2026. Gordon shares the details of the changes to the start time and planned route - the march will now begin at Noon at Parliament Square in the High Street and the rally will be held at iconic Calton Hill - and the support in place to allow as many people as possible to take part. Please share widely and let's make this event an amazing experience! More information on Believe in Scotland's website here https://www.believeinscotland.org/mar... #believeinscotland #caltonhill #edinburghmarch 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 m

In this episode, indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene  share our honest reactions to John Swinney’s speech A Moment of Challenge. We chat through the bits that genuinely landed for us, the moments that made us pause, and a couple of lowlights that didn’t quite hit the mark.  One thing that really stood out to us was the clear difference between the tone and framing of questions from the audience and the BBC's effort.  The link to the full speech is below, why not watch it and share your reactions in the comments! Key moments: 00:01:01   What threatens Scotland? 00:05:06   How Uk does not act in Scotland's interests 00:11:22   The Brexit Disaster 00:17:00   Sir Neil MacCormick on sovereignty and power 00:18:30   Solutions 00:22:21   The case for rejoining the EU 00:25:08   Question from BBC Shortbread 00:28:16   Comment from the audience  00:29:17   Question - infrastructure vulnerability 00:33:20   Question- Scotland's technological opportunities Full speech here:https://youtu.be/O2MsBB-3wAo?si=UeWi6-J6Z6vSpqIL S

What does it really mean to be a heterodox economist? And how does Modern Monetary Theory fit into today’s political narratives? In this episode, Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene catch up with political economist William Thomson  to unpack the big ideas shaping Scotland’s economic debate. William explains what “heterodox economics” actually means, challenges mainstream thinking, and explores how Modern Monetary Theory connects to the political choices facing Scotland right now. We also hear about his ambitious new event, Scotland's Economics Festival, taking place 19–21 March in Leith, Edinburgh — designed to bring big economic ideas out of academia and into the hands of the public.

What are the legal routes to an independence referendum—and who gets to decide? Fiona and Marlene bring you the standout highlights from Holyrood’s Constitutional Committee, featuring evidence from top constitutional lawyers. Expect myth-busting (goodbye “once in a generation”), clear-eyed legal analysis, and some unexpectedly rich discussions about trust, fairness and the health of democracy itself. Key points: 00:01:46  "Once in a generation" is just campaign rhetoric 00:04:35  "Settled will" is just political rhetoric 00:06:29   "Supermajority" is not required, the precedent is a simple majority 00:07:13   Scotland would secede from the UK state, not the Act of Union 00:07:47   The Act of Union is subject to the Scotland Act sec 37 00:09:09   The Claim of Right does not confer popular sovereignty 00:11:36    The Treaty of Union confirms Scots are a nation 00:13:12    Scots have the right to self determination, how do we exercise it 00:15:16    Perceptions of fairness 00:18:31   Trust in democratic processe

As the Arctic heats up, so do the geopolitics.  Regular guests Isobel Lindsay and Bill Ramsay join the Indypodcasters to dig into Donald Trump’s renewed aggression towards Greenland and what it reveals about a rapidly militarising Arctic. We ask why this frozen frontier suddenly matters so much—and what it means for security much closer to home. From opportunities arising out of Scotland’s strategic position in the North Atlantic to the uncomfortable realities of hosting nuclear weapons, we challenge the pervasive myth of an “independent” UK deterrent. We also take a hard look at Keir Starmer’s deferential approach to Trump, and what Westminster's eagerness to please says about Britain's real place in the global pecking order.  Key moments: 00:04:19   A good time to rethink Scotland's position 00:07:57   Which state perceives Scotland as a threat? 00:10:27    Is the US an ally or a threat? 00:14:15    Tensions between NATO members is not new 00:17:38     Inevitable impacts of Global warming 00:19:08     Why d

Holyrood wasn't built for winner-takes-all politics.  So why are we pretending it is? This week, IndyPodcasters Fiona and Marlene dig into the idea of political mandates at Holyrood. With SNP leader John Swinney arguing that a majority of SNP MSPs would justify another independence referendum, we ask: does that really stack up in a system designed to avoid majority rule? And if a bigger, cross-party majority backs independence, shouldn’t that count too? 00:03:25  John Swinney explains how the UK UNion fails Scotland 00:06:49   SNP majority  equals a  binding mandate? 00:09:20   Walking into his own trap? 00:13:52    Rachel Reeves is stuck in a rut 00:16:55    Once in a generation just campaign rhetoric 00:18:43    Edinburgh Agreement not a precedent 00:20:17    David Cameron's decision not binding 00:24:21     Is a majority the magic wand? 00:28:03     Angus Robertson has a different view 00:34:09      Our quick poll #holyrood  #proportionalrepresentation #mandate The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast

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 0

We’re joined once again by data analyst Stuart Donald to explore the impacts of inequality — including some unexpected links to how we vote. There’s data, there are graphs, and there are a few “wait, really?” moments along the way. Whether you love a good chart or just a good conversation, this episode delivers. Key themes: 00:00:51  The Equality Trust data sets 00:02:45  Inequality is strongly associated with societal problems 00:04:12   Income inequality and recycling rates 00:08:28  Inequality and democracy 00:12:13   Inequality and mental health stigma 00:17:14  Inequality and infant mortality 00:22:01   Would PR at Westminster  be bad for Scotland? 00:31:07  Why Europe needs immigration 00:40:19   Projections for Holyrood 2026 Find out more about inequality graphs at https://equalitytrust.org.uk/evidence-base/the-spirit-level-at-15/ Also you can follow @inequalitynews on Bluesky Holyrood seats projection image from @ballotbox.scot on Bluesky Immigration projections image originally from the Guardian. #in

Happy New Year! To mark the beginning of 2026, we share a address from the Makar of Scotland, Padraig MacAoidh, which was delivered to the Independence Forum Scotland's Autumn convention.  In a lyrical meditation on identity, he asks what it means to be a Scot in a country shaped by history yet unfinished by it. This is a speech rooted in language, land, ancestry, and imagination — a reminder that nationhood begins not in institutions, but in people. A moment of reflection to carry us into the year ahead. For more information about the Makar and his poetry see our blogpost here https://scottishindypod.scot/blogpost/makar-padraig-macaoidh/ You can watch the full coverage of the IFS convention here https://www.youtube.com/live/Ww2ZWOJhuhc?si=SVucfMN7XLxre83z #IFS #Makar, Scottishindependence The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our w

In this special episode, the Indypodcasters head to the Carsebridge Cultural Campus in Alloa for a vibrant four-day art exhibition brought to life by Yes Stones, Yes Slates, and the wider community of independent Scottish artists. Hosted by the charity Resonate Together, the event showcased an extraordinary collection of artwork generously donated by the artists — with proceeds shared between Resonate Together and nine Scottish charities chosen by the artists themselves. From luminous landscapes to pieces exploring history, politics, and Scottish culture, the exhibition was a celebration of creativity in all its forms. Visitors enjoyed coffee, cake, live music and great conversation at the drop-in stone-painting workshop that kept the creative energy flowing. Join us as we wander through the exhibition, chat with organisers and artists, and capture the warmth, talent, and community spirit that made these four days truly special. Key points: 00:04:37  Opening day 00:10:04   Chatting with artist Walker McGowan

As part of Scottish Book Week, we take you inside a fascinating event held at the Speirs Centre in Alloa, where author, storyteller, and folklorist Stuart McHardy introduced his latest book, Scotland’s Geomythography. In this engaging presentation, McHardy explores how ancient societies understood the landscapes around them and takes us on a journey through myth, memory, and the Scottish landscape. Join us as we delve into the emerging field of geomythography, which blends oral tradition, place-name study, landscape interpretation, and archaeology to reveal the deep-time stories embedded in Scotland’s terrain. From echoes of prehistoric rituals to clues hidden in local lore, this episode uncovers how the past still resonates in the places we walk today. Key themes: 00:10:42   Calanais 00:20:34   Beltane 00:22:05   Ballachulish Goddess 00:22:57   Paps and Mams 00:23:48   The Cailleach and Bride 00:24:52   Beinn Bheithir and dragons 00:28:18   Cauldrons 00:28:54   Clustering 00:29:46    Paps of Jura 00:32:01  

In this episode, we sit down with the amazing Carol Gilmour, an artist, activist, and proud committee member of Tourette’s Scotland. We first met Carol through the group Artists for Indy, when she generously donated a set of her stunning paintings to the Indy Art Exhibition, a fantastic event which will be featured in a later podcast episode. Each artist nominated a charity to benefit from the proceeds—and Carol chose Tourette’s Scotland. But that’s not all… Carol also appears in the hit film I Swear, which just happened to be top of the UK box office the very weekend we recorded and was also the subject of a Scottish Parliament debate at Holyrood!