The Lesley Riddoch 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...

In this week's episode, Lesley and Fraser reflect on a weekend that saw thousands take to the streets of Edinburgh for the "Believe in Scotland" march. From the fair old "pech" up to Calton Hill to the "tremendously cheery" atmosphere at the front of the pack, we discuss why the energy of the independence movement is far from fading. We also look at the power of "normal" language as Brian Cox take...

In this episode, Leslie and Fraser discuss the recent failure of the assisted dying bill in the Holyrood Parliament and the disconnect between parliamentarians and public opinion. They discuss why a Citizen’s Assembly would have been a better way to resolve this issue. They also cover ScotRail’s train procurement, the ethical concerns surrounding Palantir's NHS contracts, Reform’s Scottish rally a...

In this week's episode, Lesley and Fraser navigate a blustery start to the week. Lesley recounts her experience at the Irish Consul's celebration in Edinburgh, noting Ireland's cultural confidence. The discussion turns to the "heating oil headache" facing off-grid Scots, with the UK government’s £35 support package being branded as woefully inadequate. We look to our Northern neighbours for soluti...

In this week's episode, Lesley and Fraser digest a whirlwind week that saw Scotland’s rugby players secure another win—but this time, there’s a trophy involved with a very specific history. Fraser reveals his own "tangential" role in the creation of the Old Alliance Trophy and why it’s definitely not a cup. The mood shifts as we analyse the terrifying escalation in the Middle East following the bo...

In this episode, we analyse the recent escalation in the Middle East following the attacks on Iran and discuss the potential for regional conflict and the broader impact on global stability. We consider the broader US and Israeli strategies, the prospects for peace, and how these developments affect Europe, Scotland and NATO. Closer to home, we discuss the ongoing fallout over the Lord Advocate br...