Simply Scottish

Scots have made significant contributions throughout the history of medicine and health. On this episode of Simply Scottish, we look at the achievements of three pioneers in particular – Joseph Lister and his revolutionary use of antiseptic, Elsie Inglis and her dedication to women’s health and war-time medical aid, and Alexander Fleming with his life-changing discovery of penicillin. You’ll also...

Profiles of Scottish-Americans who made significant contributions to a young United States on this episode of Simply Scottish. Learn more about Tam Blake, the first recorded Scot in the New World, Founding Father John Witherspoon, Navy captain John Paul Jones, and naturalist John Muir. We'll also look at the history and significance of National Tartan Day in the U.S. and Canada. Enjoy music from K...

Enjoy poems from Scotland's writers past and present on this episode of Simply Scottish, with selections from Robert Louis Stevenson, Edwin Morgan, Iain Crichton Smith, Kathleen Jamie, and others. Embark on a journey from the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh to Scotland's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, from a child's bed to a lonely moor. Along the way, listen to music from Alasdair Fraser, Fiona Ma...

The story and song of Scottish singer-songwriter Maeve O'Boyle is featured on this episode of Simply Scottish. Born and bred in Glasgow of Irish parents, O'Boyle began singing at an early age, eventually gaining mainstream attention at Celtic Connections in 2006. An acclaimed debut album followed in 2009, and O'Boyle is now working on her follow-up. She spoke to Simply Scottish about her musical r...

Explore the close ties between Ireland and Scotland on the second of a two-part series on the common bonds of these two prominent Celtic nations. Discover the shared Celtic culture of Ireland and Scotland with examples from politics, sport, the arts, food and drink, and more. You'll also enjoy a great selection of Celtic music from Liz Carrol, Niamh Parsons, Jean-Yves Le Pape, and others!

In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, this episode kicks off a two-part series exploring the connections between Ireland and Scotland, two Celtic countries whose histories and cultures are interwoven. Learn about the six Celtic nations and their ancestors from continental Europe. Hear musical examples of Irish and Scottish Gaelic, and discover what is being done today to preserve cultural and lingu...

A castle, a palace, a cathedral, and more! Explore Edinburgh's Royal Mile on this episode of Simply Scottish! The magnificent St. Giles Cathedral has been a focal point of Edinburgh's faithful for hundreds of years. Learn some surprising facts about the High Kirk of the capital city. And what do you get when you combine the vision of a world-class architect with Scotland's landscape, history, and...

"All children, except one, grow up." So begins the classic story of Peter Pan. On this episode of Simply Scottish, discover the story behind the story as we look at the life of 19th century Scottish author James Matthew Barrie. Fact and fiction merge together in a tale of personal tragedy and triumph. Hear a selection from Peter Pan, as well as some great Scottish music from the Trashcan Sinatras,...

The Scottish roots of Gospel music and the Clan Houston are explored on this tribute to singer Whitney Houston. Hear an example of the Gaelic psalm singing style that evolved into the “call and response” technique found in gospel music. Learn how the Houston clan made their mark on America, and hear contrasting examples of the song Whitney sang in her first public performance. All this plus music...

Discover the artistic vision and creativity of renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his artistic muse Margaret MacDonald Mackintosh. Part of the Glasgow Style that influenced art movements throughout Europe, the Mackintosh's collaborative output is still admired and cherished today. Enjoy a great selection of Glasgow-themed music that celebrates this remarkable couple, including songs...

Scotland’s sweets and most popular drinks are the subject of this episode, our third in a series exploring Scottish cuisine. Learn about the sweet treats the Scots savor, including boilings, tablet, macaroons, and other goodies. You’ll also hear from Andrew McDiarmid Sr. about three of Scotland’s most enduring drinks – tea, IRN-BRU, and whisky. Hear music from Alasdair Fraser, Natalie Haas, Niamh...

Scotland's most famous poet, Rabbie Burns is celebrated the world over for his Scots and English language poetry. More than just a writer, Burns is part of our social consciousness today and embodies the ideas we continue to hold dear, including the equality of humankind, liberty, and brotherhood. Tune in to learn more about Burns' life, loves, and legacy. Listen to stirring arrangements of Burns'...

Scottish innovation and creativity have benefited the world in many ways. On this episode of Simply Scottish, we look at just three of Scotland's contributions - the inimitable Lulu, the best-selling King James Bible, and the pedal-driven bicycle. Did you know Lulu was barely into her teenage years when she started singing publicly? Or that it took a team of several dozen translators seven years t...

A rags to riches story that typifies the American Dream...tune in as we explore the life of Andrew Carnegie on this episode of Simply Scottish, part of an ongoing series on famous Scots and their contributions to the world. Learn about Carnegie's humble childhood in Scotland and how a combination of hard work, ingenuity, and providence would help him achieve unparalleled success as a businessman a...

What do people in Scotland eat today? What's a Scotch pie? Do restaurants in Scotland serve traditional or modern dishes? Why is shortbread called "short" bread? Tune in to this episode of Simply Scottish, the 2nd in a series exploring Scottish cuisine. Enjoy music from Capercaillie, Phil Cunningham, the Bluebells, and more!

On this episode of Simply Scottish, find out how people in Scotland ring in the New Year! Learn all about Hogmanay - traditions, key events, and more. We'll also take a closer look at Edinburgh Castle, the most visited tourist attraction in Scotland. Hear music from Dougie Maclean, The Band of the Black Watch, Leahy, and others, all on this episode of Simply Scottish. For a full episode playlist a...

On this episode of Simply Scottish, explore how Christmas is celebrated in Scotland. We'll look at the history of the holiday and discuss examples of traditions that have stood the test of time. Take a break from the hustle and bustle, sip something warm, and tune in to this special Christmas edition of Simply Scottish. This episode features music from Aine Minogue, Deacon Blue, Robin Spielberg, a...

On this episode of Simply Scottish, the first of a series on Scots Cuisine, we explore the history and development of Scottish food from medieval times to the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots. You'll find out how the plates of the wealthy and titled differed from those of farmers. We'll take a closer look at Scotland's national dish, haggis, and discuss the characteristics and common ingredients that...

On this inaugural episode of Simply Scottish in podcast form, host Andrew McDiarmid speaks with his father, Andrew McDiarmid Sr., about the experience of starting and producing a Scottish radio program in South Texas in 1999. For three years, the father and son duo shared the best of all things Scottish - music, features, commentary, and interviews - with audiences in Texas, northern Mexico, and l...