Episodes
| Title | First Broadcast | Repeated | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20260505 |  Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260506 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260508 | Reaction to the results of the Scottish Parliament elections. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260511 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260512 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260513 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260518 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260519 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| 20260520 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | ||
| A Pundit's Ref Rants And A Hampden Ban | 20260420 | 
Football pundit Michael Stewart has been banned from working at Hampden Park by the Scottish Football Association. The BBC's Chris McLaughlin, no stranger himself to a stadium ban, helps us explain why some think Stewart's criticism of referees has gone too far. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Michael Stewart has been banned from the national stadium by the SFA. Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins discuss how football pundit Michael Stewart's views about referees got him banned from our national stadium. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. | |
| Aberfeldy Case: How Did Police Get It So Wrong? | 20260226 | 20260227 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Who is Nicholas Rossi?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002lpbn Brian Low was 65 when he was found dead on a country track near Aberfeldy. Police treated his death as non-suspicious for five days - until a pathologist found bullet wounds on his body. Former gamekeeper David Campbell, 77, wasn't arrested for another three months. But this week he was convicted of murder and sentenced to 19 years in prison. Now an investigation into where the police investigation went wrong is due – two reporters who have covered the case since day one tell us which questions still need to be answered. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk How investigators managed to miss that a murder victim had been shot. Laura Miller speaks to two reporters who covered the case from its very beginning in February 2024 to find out what went wrong, and why. |
| Ai Philosopher: Why We're Not Doomed | 20260219 | 20260220 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like 'Is AI coming for your job?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/programmes/m002dl6n A glut of staff from the world's most powerful AI companies have resigned in the past month, with one warning the world is in 'peril'. AI philosopher Professor Shannon Vallor (pictured) from Edinburgh University tells us why she believes people have the power to make AI a force for good. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk A call to arms to make big tech serve people not profit from an ethics expert. Martin Geissler hears how AI can be a force for good - but only if people and politicians curtail the power of big tech companies. |
| Alex Cole-hamilton: The Election Interview | 20260310 | 20260311 (RS) |  Alex Cole-Hamilton (pictured) has been leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats since 2021. He talks to Martin about Quakerism, pacifism and nationalism in the first of our series of interviews with party leaders ahead of the Holyrood election. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Scottish Liberal Democrat leader on Quakerism, pacifism and nationalism. Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton speaks to Martin Geissler ahead of May's Holyrood election. |
| Anas Sarwar: The Election Interview | 20260324 | 20260325 (RS) | 
He talks to Martin about his dramatic decision to call for the resignation of prime minister Keir Starmer and why he thinks so deeply about fatherhood. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Scottish Labour leader on Keir Starmer and fatherhood. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar speaks to Martin Geissler ahead of May's Holyrood election. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. |
| Best Of The Week | 20260405 |  The best of this weeks Scotcast and the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | |
| Best Of The Week | 20260412 | The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast. Listen in full: - Rape Trials: a victim's view https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tn4y - Green hopeful calls for prisons to be abolished https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tn3l - Hunting gangsters- and how organised crime works https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tn49 This episode of Best of the Week is hosted by Martin Geissler Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler. | |
| Best Of The Week | 20260419 |
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| Best Of The Week: Brewdog, Peter Murrell And Our Ai Future | 20260222 | Highlights from the BBC's Scottish news podcast. Listen in full: - 'What now for Brewdog?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rh5f - 'Do police officers need more guns?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rg8q - 'What's going on in the Peter Murrell case?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rgbs - 'AI philosopher: how we're not all doomed' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rgcp Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode of Best of the Week is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Martin Geissler presents highlights from the BBC's Scottish news podcast. | |
| Best Of The Week: Cost Of Living, Swinney And Scottish Greens | 20260322 | The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast. Listen in full: - Can we afford another cost of living crisis? https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sps5 - Gillian Mackay: the election interview https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sppp - Why did the assisted dying bill fail? https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sqws - John Swinney: the election interview https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sqyp This episode of Best of the Week is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast, with Laura Miller. | |
| Best Of The Week: Gang Arrests, Ferry Problems And 'food Deserts' | 20260405 |
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| Best Of The Week: North Sea Drilling, Sarwar And Findlay | 20260329 | The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast. Listen in full: - Drill, maybe drill? Our North Sea dilemma https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002t181 - Anas Sarwar: the election interview https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002t1cw - Offord admits to 'crude' George Michael joke https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002t1lj - Russell Findlay: the election interview https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002t288 This episode of Best of the Week is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast, with Laura Miller. | |
| Best Of The Week: Old Firm Bedlam, Glasgow Fire And Leader Interviews | 20260315 | The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast. Listen in full: - Who's to blame for Old Firm bedlam? https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sdxp - Alex Cole-Hamilton: the election interview https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002scq2 - Glasgow fire: who owns our historic buildings? https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002scvs - Malcolm Offord: the election interview https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002scz4 This episode of Best of the Week is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk The best bits from the past seven days of the BBC's Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler. | |
| Best Of The Week: Ruth Davidson, Aberfeldy Case And Gorton By-election | 20260301 | Highlights from the BBC's Scottish news podcast Listen in full: - 'What if Alex Salmond's party folds?': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rny0 - 'Ruth Davidson and the fight on the right': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rnx3 - 'Aberfeldy case: how did police get it so wrong?': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rp1l Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish News podcast. This episode of Best of the Week is hosted by Natalie Higgins. Natalie Higgins presents highlights from the BBC's Scottish news podcast. | |
| Can We Afford Another Cost Of Living Crisis? | 20260316 | 20260317 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Iran: Are our bills about to shoot up?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002s4h6 The Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has warned that the longer the US-Israel war with Iran continues, the worse the cost of living will get at home. He's announced some support for those who use heating oil – but it pales in comparison to the help given out after the Ukraine war. So what can the UK government afford these days? The BBC's deputy economics editor Dharshini David answers our questions. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Natalie Higgins and David Wallace Lockhart. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Will the Iran war fuel inflation? And how much can the UK government help this time? Natalie Higgins and David Wallace Lockhart discuss whether the UK government can afford to step in if the US-Israel war with Iran fuels further price hikes. |
| Does The Nhs Care About Women? | 20260303 | 20260304 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Fixing the NHS: where do you start?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m0027bj7 A poll by the BBC has suggested 50% of voters care about the NHS more than anything else in the upcoming election. That figure is higher for women than it is for men. Women are more likely to be on multiple waiting lists than men, are more likely to live with chronic pain, and spend more years suffering from ill health. So, does the NHS have a problem with women – and treating female-only conditions? We hear from a menopause specialist and a women's health campaigner. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk The reason why women face inequalities in the health system. Laura Miller speaks to a menopause specialist and a women's health campaigner about inequalities in the NHS. |
| Drill, Maybe Drill? Our North Sea Dilemma | 20260323 | 20260324 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like 'Can we afford another cost of living crisis?': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002sps5 The CEO of Centrica, which owns British Gas, says further North Sea oil and gas exploration should be allowed to help alleviate potential price rises. As the world faces an energy shock in the wake of the war in Iran, we ask energy correspondent Kevin Keane whether Chris O'Shea (pictured) has a point. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and David Wallace Lockhart. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Is British Gas boss right about oil and gas exploration? Laura Miller asks whether calls for more drilling for North Sea for oil and gas are justified amid the war in Iran. |
| Gillian Mackay: The Election Interview | 20260317 | 20260318 (RS) |  Gillian Mackay (pictured) was elected co-leader of the Scottish Greens alongside Ross Greer in 2025. She talks to Martin about 'rebuilding trust' between her party and the SNP, and her childhood bullying ordeal. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Scottish Green co-leader on 'rebuilding trust' with the SNP. Scottish Green co-leader Gillian Mackay speaks to Martin Geissler ahead of May's Holyrood election. |
| Glasgow Fire: Who Owns Our Historic Buildings? | 20260311 | 20260312 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘My clan, the land and who owns it' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002lpck The fire that ripped through a Victorian building next to Glasgow's Central Station has left a blackened, crumbling shell right in the city centre. The council leader Susan Aitken has said the ownership of many historic sites in the city is ‘complex', and often ‘fragmented'. So who is responsible for much of our heritage? And how should it be protected? Two journalists – Calum Grewar from The Bell and Karin Goodwin from The Ferret - tell us how complicated the picture can be. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Who is responsible for preserving our heritage - and are they doing enough? Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins hear how the Glasgow fire provokes questions over who should be in charge of our national heritage. |
| Green Hopeful Calls For Prisons To Be Abolished | 20260407 |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Ready to explode': prisons and early release: https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002n98h A proposal by Scottish Green Kate Nevens (pictured) to abolish jails has been described as 'absolutely bonkers' by the SNP. The BBC's David Wallace Lockhart helps us unpick the Holyrood election candidate's comments before we unpack prisons and sentencing policy. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Opponents say Kate Nevens's idea is 'absolutely bonkers'. Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins discuss a proposal by a Scottish Green election candidate to abolish prisons. | |
| 'he's A Liar' - Sarwar's Latest Spat With Reform | 20260415 |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘BBC leaders debate – the debrief': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nd1ntq Anas Sarwar has called Malcolm Offord a 'liar' over a claim made by Reform UK's leader in Scotland during a TV debate hosted by Channel 4. We unpack who's saying what in the latest spat between Scottish Labour's leader and Nigel Farage's party. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Scottish Labour leader clashed with Malcolm Offord in a TV debate. Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins discuss the latest spat between Anas Sarwar and Nigel Farage's Reform UK. | |
| 'how We Convicted Killer Husband And Made Legal History' | 20260414 | 
The head of the Crown Office, John Logue, and The Guardian's Geraldine McKelvie tell us how Milne became the first person to be convicted in Scotland in such a case. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Lee Milne was jailed following a campaign of abuse against wife Kimberly. Martin Geissler hears from head of the Crown Office about making legal history by prosecuting Lee Milne, whose wife ended her life after a campaign of abuse. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. | |
| Hunting Gangsters - And How Organised Crime Works | 20260408 | 
One of Scotland's most high-profile gangland figures – Steven Lyons (pictured) – has been deported to Amsterdam after his airport arrest in Bali. Former Police Scotland detective Martin Gallagher explains the world of organised crime and tells us what it's like to come face to face with serious gangsters. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk A former detective on gang boss Steven Lyons's extradition. Martin Geissler speaks to a former detective about gang boss Steven Lyons's extradition and the fight against organised crime. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. | |
| Hunting Gangsters - And How Organised Crime Works | 20260408 | If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Is the net closing on notorious gangster family?': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002td2j One of Scotland's most high-profile gangland figures – Steven Lyons (pictured) – has been deported to Amsterdam after his airport arrest in Bali. Former Police Scotland detective Martin Gallagher explains the world of organised crime and tells us what it's like to come face to face with serious gangsters. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk A former detective on gang boss Steven Lyons's extradition. Martin Geissler speaks to a former detective about gang boss Steven Lyons's extradition and the fight against organised crime. | |
| Hydrolysis: Our Uk-first 'green' Funerals | 20260302 | 20260303 (RS) |  Scotland has become the first part of the UK to legalise water cremations, a process known as alkaline hydrolysis. We ask funeral director Andrew Purves (pictured) why there's demand for an alternative to burial and traditional cremation. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Picture credit: William Purves Funeral Directors Scots could soon be offered an alternative to burial and cremation. Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins hear about Scotland becoming the first part of the UK to legalise water cremations. |
| Inside The 'salmond Files' | 20260225 | 20260226 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘What's going on in the Peter Murrell case?': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rgbs Thousands of documents from James Hamilton's investigation into former first minister Nicola Sturgeon and her predecessor Alex Salmond have been released. Phil Sim tells us what – if anything – we have learned from this batch of the so-called ‘Salmond files'. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Thousands of documents from James Hamilton's investigation have been released. Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins discuss what we have learned from the publication of the so-called ‘Alex Salmond files'. |
| Iran: Are Our Bills About To Shoot Up? | 20260304 | 20260305 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002qgvt President Donald Trump (pictured) has told lawmakers it is not yet possible to know the 'full scope and duration' of US strikes on Iran. Here at home, attention has turned to what the conflict might mean on UK shores as oil and gas prices continue to rise. Laura and Natalie hear from Professor John Underhill from the University of Aberdeen about what might happen to our energy bills, how safe our energy supplies are and what this tells us about our long-term energy strategy. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk And what is future for Scotland's energy sector? Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins hear how the US-Israel war with Iran could trigger a rise in our bills. |
| Is the net closing on notorious gangster family? | 20260330 | 
If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Gangster arrests in Dubai: who’s who?’ https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002jtr1
Gangland boss Steven Lyons (pictured) has been arrested by police in Bali following an Interpol red alert.
The BBC’s David Cowan tells us why the arrests of Lyons and his partner Amanda could mark a significant moment in an international investigation into organised crime.
Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller.
Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk
Picture credit: Spindrift
Steven Lyons was arrested in Bali following an Interpol red alert. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. Laura Miller hears why the arrest of gangland boss Steven Lyons could be a major moment in a police investigation into organised crime.
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| Is The Net Closing On Notorious Gangster Family? | 20260330 |
Gangland boss Steven Lyons (pictured) has been arrested by police in Bali following an Interpol red alert. The BBC's David Cowan tells us why the arrests of Lyons and his partner Amanda could mark a significant moment in an international investigation into organised crime. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Picture credit: Spindrift Steven Lyons was arrested in Bali following an Interpol red alert. Laura Miller hears why the arrest of gangland boss Steven Lyons could be a major moment in a police investigation into organised crime. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. | |
| John Swinney: The Election Interview | 20260319 | 20260320 (RS) |  John Swinney has been SNP leader and First Minister of Scotland since 2024. He talks to Martin about feeling the “love of God ? and why he believes racism partly explains the popularity of Nigel Farage's Reform UK. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk SNP leader on the love of God and the rise of Reform. SNP leader and First Minister John Swinney speaks to Martin Geissler ahead of May's Holyrood election. |
| Kezia's Jk Rowling Apology And The Gender Debate | 20260427 |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Is Swinney respecting the Supreme Court on gender?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002q26k Kezia Dugdale (pictured), the incoming chair of LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall, has apologised for causing 'worry and anger' after praising JK Rowling during an interview about transgender rights. The BBC's Paris Gourtsoyannis helps us assess the state of the gender debate, with long-awaited guidance on single-sex spaces from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) set to be published after national and local elections on Thursday 7 May. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Stonewall's new chair 'truly sorry' after praising author. Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins discuss why Kezia Dugdale has apologised for praising JK Rowling in an interview about transgender rights. | |
| Malcolm Offord: The Election Interview | 20260312 | 20260313 (RS) | 
He talks to Martin about finding his feet in Nigel Farage's party – and losing friends along the way. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Reform's Scottish leader on finding Farage and losing friends. Reform UK's leader in Scotland, Malcolm Offord, speaks to Martin Geissler ahead of May's Holyrood election. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. |
| Mandelson, Starmer And Sarwar: What Happens Next? | 20260205 | 20260206 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘How should Sarwar deal with Starmer?': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002k35n Anas Sarwar says he is 'disgusted' after details emerged of apparent links between former Labour minister Peter Mandelson (pictured) and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. We ask Simon Pia - a Labour adviser during Gordon Brown's premiership - whether the Mandelson saga could break the bond between the Scottish Labour leader and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk How the Mandelson saga could break bond between Labour's leaders. Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins hear from a Labour insider from the Gordon Brown era on how Peter Mandelson influenced the party. |
| Offord Admits To 'crude' George Michael Joke | 20260325 | 20260326 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Malcolm Offord: the election interview': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002scz4 Reform UK's leader in Scotland Malcolm Offord (pictured) has apologised for a 'crude joke' he made about the late pop star George Michael at a rugby club dinner in 2018. We ask the BBC's Phil Sim and pollster Mark Diffley whether a string of controversies surrounding Nigel Farage's Holyrood candidates will do the party any electoral damage. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Will Reform UK's rocky week do Farage's party any damage? Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins discuss Reform UK's leader in Scotland Malcolm Offord's apology for a 'crude joke' about George Michael. |
| Politics Show | 20260507 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | |
| Politics Show | 20260514 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | |
| Politics Show | 20260521 | Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | |
| Politics Show: Candidate Controversies And North Sea Debate | 20260403 | 20260402 (RS) | 
Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode of the Politics Show is hosted by David Wallace Lockhart, Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk David Wallace Lockhart, Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim on the week's political news. |
| Politics Show: Ferry Disruption And What The Polls Are Really Saying | 20260409 | 
Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode of the Politics Show is hosted by Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim on the week's political news. Political analysis with Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. | |
| Politics Show: Ferry Fury And What Polls Are Really Saying | 20260409 | Natalie and Phil talk about how problems with CalMac ferries became an election issue and decode the results of a flurry of opinion polls. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode of the Politics Show is hosted by Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim on the week's political news. Political analysis with Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim. | |
| Politics Show: Manifesto Special | 20260423 |  Political analysis with Natalie Higgins, David Wallace Lockhart, Lynsey Bews and Phil Sim. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. | |
| Politics Show: The 'meh-lection' Campaign? | 20260430 |  Only one week remains of the 2026 Holyrood Election campaign. David, Natalie and Phil discuss what the story of this campaign has been, and what they will be looking out for on results day. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode of the Politics Show is hosted by David Wallace Lockhart, Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Political analysis with David Wallace Lockhart, Natalie Higgins and Phil Sim. | |
| Politics Show: Tv Debates And Crystal Balls | 20260416 | 
Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode of the Politics Show is hosted by Natalie Higgins, Lynsey Bews and Phil Sim. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Political analysis with Natalie Higgins, Lynsey Bews and Phil Sim. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. | |
| Rape Trials - A Victim's View | 20260406 |  Sophie (not her real name) was raped in a Glasgow barber shop by a man pretending to be a taxi driver. She talks to Laura about reporting the crime to police; giving evidence in court; and the sentence her attacker, Barzan Nawshowani, received. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk One woman's ordeal and her experience of the justice system. Laura Miller speaks to a woman who was raped in a barber shop by a man pretending to be a taxi driver. | |
| Rape Trials: A Victim's View | 20260406 | Sophie (not her real name) was raped in a Glasgow barber shop by a man pretending to be a taxi driver. She talks to Laura about reporting the crime to police; giving evidence in court; and the sentence her attacker, Barzan Nawshowani, received. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk One woman's ordeal and her experience of the justice system. Laura Miller speaks to a woman who was raped in a barber shop by a man pretending to be a taxi driver. | |
| Russell Findlay: The Election Interview | 20260326 | 20260327 (RS) |  Russell Findlay (pictured) only became an MSP in 2021. Three years later, he was elected to be the leader of the Scottish Conservatives. He talks to Martin about his previous career as a journalist uncovering organised crime in Scotland, the day in 2015 when a gangster came to his door to throw acid in his face, and how this incident led him towards politics. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk The Scottish Conservative leader on how an acid attack led him into politics. The Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay speaks to Martin Geissler ahead of May's Holyrood election. |
| Ruth Davidson And The Fight On The Right | 20260224 | 20260225 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Malcolm Offord: I can be a Reform first minister' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002n9d4 Baroness Ruth Davidson (pictured) led the Scottish Conservatives between 2011 and 2019. In the face of rising support for Nigel Farage's Reform UK, she tells us why she is launching a new political movement. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Ex-Scottish Conservative leader on Farage, Badenoch and leadership. Martin Geissler speaks to Ruth Davidson about the future of the Conservative party and beating Nigel Farage's Reform UK. |
| 'salmond Files': The Man Taking Government To Court | 20260305 | 20260306 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Inside the 'Salmond files': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rp03 David Hamilton (pictured) is taking the Scottish Government to court over its refusal to release the so-called ‘Alex Salmond files'. We ask the Scottish Information Commissioner why he believes some documents from the James Hamilton investigation, which cleared Nicola Sturgeon of misleading parliament, should be made public. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Why the Information Commissioner believes documents should be released. Martin Geissler speaks to the Scottish Information Commissioner about going to court over the so-called 'Alex Salmond files'. |
| 'salmond Files': The Man Taking The Scottish Government To Court | 20260305 | 20260306 (RS) | If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Inside the 'Salmond files' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002rp03 The Scottish Information Commissioner is taking the Scottish government to court over its refusal to release the so-called ‘Salmond files'. That's the evidence behind an investigation which cleared Nicola Sturgeon – back when she was accused of misleading parliament over how her government handled allegations against Alex Salmond. Ministers say publication could lead to the identification of people who have their names protected by the courts. But David Hamilton disagrees. We find out why. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Why the Scottish Information Commissioner believes the documents should be released. Martin Geissler hears from the Scottish Information Commissioner about his belief there is no good reason the 'Salmond files' should not be released. |
| The questions raised by the Jordan Linden case | 20260331 | 
SNP leader John Swinney has ordered a review of the party's complaints process after ex-council leader Jordan Linden (pictured) was convicted of sexually assaulting young men.
The Scottish Mail on Sunday's Hannah Rodger tells us how a tip-off in the pub led to a confrontation at Linden's home and a long investigation into allegations against him.
Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and David Wallace Lockhart.
Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk
And how a pub tip-off led to confrontation ex-council leader's home. The BBC's Scottish news podcast. Martin Geissler hears how a pub tip-off led to a confrontation at the home of ex-council leader Jordan Linden, who has been convicted of sexually assaulting young men.
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| The Questions Raised By The Jordan Linden Case | 20260331 | SNP leader John Swinney has ordered a review of the party's complaints process after ex-council leader Jordan Linden (pictured) was convicted of sexually assaulting young men. The Scottish Mail on Sunday's Hannah Rodger tells us how a tip-off in the pub led to a confrontation at Linden's home and a long investigation into allegations against him. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and David Wallace Lockhart. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk And how a pub tip-off led to confrontation ex-council leader's home. Martin Geissler hears how a pub tip-off led to a confrontation at the home of ex-council leader Jordan Linden, who has been convicted of sexually assaulting young men. | |
| What Happens To Scottish Labour If Pm Clings On? | 20260422 |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Does Labour's by-election loss vindicate Sarwar?' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/p0n3rv8q Sir Keir Starmer has said evidence given by Sir Olly Robbins to MPs 'puts to bed all the allegations' made against him over Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. BBC political correspondents David Wallace Lockhart and Paris Gourtsoyannis tell us how Scottish Labour insiders are feeling as more questions are raised about the prime minister's judgement. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk How party insiders are feeling about Sir Keir Starmer. Martin Geissler hears how Scottish Labour insiders are feeling as more questions are raised about Sir Keir Starmer's judgement. | |
| What If Alex Salmond's Party Folds? | 20260223 | 20260224 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘What Tommy Sheridan did next': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002dmdp Alba leader Kenny MacAskill says the pro-independence party founded by Alex Salmond (pictured) is unlikely to field candidates in the Holyrood election. Kirk Torrance, an adviser to the former first minister and ex-SNP leader when he formed Alba, tells us why the party needs fresh leadership. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Alba founding figure on the future of the independence cause. Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins speak to a key Alex Salmond adviser about the possible demise of the political party the ex-first minister founded. |
| Who's To Blame For Old Firm Bedlam? | 20260309 | 20260310 (RS) |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Fans hit out at Old Firm policing': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002919c Police Scotland have condemned the behaviour of fans attending the Scottish Cup clash between Rangers and Celtic as 'despicable' and 'shameful'. We ask the BBC's Chris McLaughlin how the clubs and authorities will respond to the disorder at Ibrox. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Police have condemned scenes at Ibrox as 'shameful'. Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins ask how authorities will respond to disorder at the Scottish Cup clash between Rangers and Celtic. |
| Who's To Blame For Our Ferry Problems? | 20260401 |  CalMac chief executive Duncan Mackison says the operator is enduring a 'firestorm' of disruption with several vessels out of action. We ask the BBC's David Henderson who's to blame for the problems facing our ferry network. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk CalMac's CEO says the operator is enduring a 'firestorm' of disruption. Laura Miller asks who's to blame for the problems facing our ferry network. | |
| Why Did The Assisted Dying Bill Fail? | 20260318 | 20260319 (RS) |  MSPs have rejected a bill brought forward by Liam McArthur (pictured) which would have allowed a medically assisted death for terminally ill people with six months left to live. We ask the BBC's Scotland Editor and Newscast regular James Cook how a majority of MSPs went from supporting the bill in May 2025 to voting it down 10 months later. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode was hosted by Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk How a majority of MSPs went from supporting the move - to rejecting it. Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins discuss why MSPs rejected a proposal to legalise assisted dying. |
| Why Did Wes Streeting Stir Up An Indyref Row? | 20260413 |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘BBC leaders debate – the debrief': https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/p0nd1ntq UK Cabinet minister Wes Streeting (pictured) has ruled out an independence referendum in the event of an SNP majority at Holyrood. We ask Nicola Sturgeon's former chief of staff Liz Lloyd and ex-Labour adviser James Matthewson whether Streeting's intervention helps Anas Sarwar's election campaign. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk UK Cabinet minister has ruled out another referendum. Martin Geissler asks who benefits from Wes Streeting stirring up a fresh row about another independence referendum. | |
| Will Miliband's Plan To Slash Our Bills Pay Off? | 20260421 |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like 'Drill, maybe drill? Our North Sea dilemma' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002t181 UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband (pictured) has announced a planned shake-up in the way electricity is priced. We ask energy analyst Ellen Fraser whether Miliband's plans will bring down our energy bills. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk UK Energy Secretary has announced an electricity pricing shake-up. Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins ask whether Ed Miliband's planned changes to the way electricity is priced will bring down bills. | |
| Will Offord's Boat Boast Capsize His Campaign? | 20260429 |  If you're interested in this episode, you may also like ‘He's a liar - Sarwar's latest spat with Reform' https://www.BBC.co.uk/sounds/play/m002tzwb Reform UK's leader in Scotland Malcolm Offord (pictured right) has revealed he owns “six houses, six boats and five cars” in an exchange with Scottish Green co-leader Ross Greer (pictured left) during the STV leaders' debate. We ask how Offord's revelation about his wealth will go down with voters ahead of the Holyrood election. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk And highlights from the last televised debate before the election. Laura Miller, Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins ask why Malcolm Offord volunteered so much information about his wealth in the final TV election debate. | |
| Will University Strikes Ever End? | 20260428 | 
Lecturers at the University of Edinburgh are to begin a marking boycott in a dispute over planned cuts. The Herald's education correspondent Garrett Stell explains why so many Scottish universities are dealing with staff strikes and facing the threat of further industrial action. Scotcast is the BBC's Scottish news podcast. This episode is hosted by Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@BBC.co.uk Our uni sector has been plagued by industrial action. Martin Geissler and Natalie Higgins hear why our university sector has been plagued by industrial action. Thoughtful conversation about the most interesting news stories in Scotland. |
David, Natalie and Phil discuss a string of controversies surrounding Holyrood election candidates and SNP leader John Swinney's softening stance on drilling for North Sea oil and gas.