89 episodes

The Holyrood Sources podcast analyses Scottish politics through the experiences of those who have lived and breathed it as Special Advisers to the Scottish Government, SNP and opposition parties. Join hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Chief of Staff to the First Minister, 2007-2014) and Andy Maciver (Former Head of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives) as they take you inside Scottish politics. Their insight is second to none - they've been there, lived it, and maintain remarkable connections to Scotland's politicians and the world of Scottish politics.
Join our mailing list and check out our latest live events: click holyroodsources.com

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



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Holyrood Sources Shortbread Media

    • News
    • 4.6 • 49 Ratings

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The Holyrood Sources podcast analyses Scottish politics through the experiences of those who have lived and breathed it as Special Advisers to the Scottish Government, SNP and opposition parties. Join hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Chief of Staff to the First Minister, 2007-2014) and Andy Maciver (Former Head of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives) as they take you inside Scottish politics. Their insight is second to none - they've been there, lived it, and maintain remarkable connections to Scotland's politicians and the world of Scottish politics.
Join our mailing list and check out our latest live events: click holyroodsources.com

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires subscription and macOS 11.4 or higher

    John Swinney's Cabinet

    John Swinney's Cabinet

    Kate Forbes is John Swinney's Deputy First Minister, but what does that mean for the SNP, the election and for Scotland? Calum, Andy and Geoff discuss it all. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    • 49 min
    What's Next? (Swinney, Forbes, Faith, Unity)

    What's Next? (Swinney, Forbes, Faith, Unity)

    We reflect on John Swinney's announcement to run for SNP leader and the potential role of Kate Forbes in the new government. They also address concerns about Forbes' past statements on social issues and the need for unity within the party, as raised by you on email. The emphasis, as far as the SNP is concerned, is on the importance of bringing together different factions and talents within the SNP to ensure a strong and competent government. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    • 27 min
    John Swinney or Kate Forbes...with Gina Davidson

    John Swinney or Kate Forbes...with Gina Davidson

    LBC's Scotland Political Editor Gina Davidson joins Calum, Andy and Geoff to discuss who will take the reigns of the SNP following Humza Yousaf's departure. Plus, your questions are answered. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    • 52 min
    Humza Yousaf Resigns: The Opposition Reacts

    Humza Yousaf Resigns: The Opposition Reacts

    Humza Yousaf's resignation as First Minister of Scotland has sparked discussions about the future of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and the leadership contest that will follow. The conversation explores the personal and political reactions to Yousaf's resignation, the mistakes made during his tenure, and the need for change within the SNP. The potential candidates for the next First Minister, including John Swinney and Kate Forbes, are discussed, with an emphasis on the importance of unity and a focus on the people's priorities. The role of other parties, such as Labour and the Conservatives and the Greens, in the next chapter of Scottish politics is also examined.
    We hear from Scottish Labour leader, Anas Sarwar; Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole Hamilton, Scottish Conservative Chairman, Craig Hoy and Scottish Green MSP Gillian MacKay.

    Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    • 1 hr 6 min
    Votes of No Confidence...with Ross Greer

    Votes of No Confidence...with Ross Greer

    Scottish Green Party MSP Ross Greer joins us for an extended conversation about the termination of the Bute House Agreement, the Greens' time in Government and how the party plan to vote in the votes of no confidence being brought against Humza Yousaf and The Scottish Government. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



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    • 58 min
    Humza Yousaf Dumps The Scottish Greens

    Humza Yousaf Dumps The Scottish Greens

    The Bute House agreement between the SNP and the Scottish Greens has ended, leading to a minority government in Scotland. We discuss the reasons for the end of the agreement including policy challenges and frayed relationships. Humza Yousaf, the leader of the SNP, will now have to chart a new course and focus on issues that have public support. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    • 25 min

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5
49 Ratings

49 Ratings

Michelle Shortt ,

Making Scottish politics Informative and entertaining

Guid banter atween i loons! As a quine fae Aiberdeen it’s affa fine tae hae yon loon Geoff gie a voice tae NE Scotland!

Caz Stirling ,

Intelligent, compelling analysis of politics in Scotland

Every week, I find myself wondering how the podcast will handle the latest events in Scottish politics. It’s fearless, incisive and - sometimes- humorous.

An excellent listen, subscribe now.

Disclosure- I am not related to any of the presenters. Indeed, never even met them!

Skigersta Bear ,

Top class analysis

This podcast has become my weekly ‘go-to’ for political analysis. They take the time to really dig into the issues, avoiding that ‘gotcha’ mentality you see on the more time constrained broadcasts. I find the analysis balanced and fair. Even listening to politicians is not normally want to listen to has been bit helpful in helping me establish better perspective. Love it - keep up the fantastic work!!

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