The Lesley Riddoch Podcast

Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson
  • 4.9 (10)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Scottish politics dissected from a left, pro-independence stance. Each week, award-winning broadcaster and journalist, Lesley Riddoch chews over the week’s news with co-host Fraser Thompson. If you like intelligent, quirky chat about Scottish society and culture, and Scottish, UK and international politics analysed from a Scottish perspective; this podcast is for you.

  1. 1D AGO

    He's not the Messiah

    In this week’s episode, Lesley and Fraser navigate the "actual apex of insults to humanity," as AI-generated imagery and global conflict collide. From Donald Trump’s bizarre portrayal of himself as a "healer of men" to the first American Pope taking a stand against the destruction of civilization, we analyse a world that feels increasingly discombobulated. Closer to home, the Scottish election is picking up pace with the first leaders debate we look at what was said, and how it came across. With a "contemptuous, sniffy" response from Labour’s Wes Streeting regarding independence we also discuss why Anas Sarwar "hardly needs enemies" with friends like these. LinksHungarian dancing MP https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/news/hungary-mp-dancing-orban-video-b2957061.html Upstart Scot hustings - onlinehttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/upstart-scottish-parliamentary-election-hustings-2026-tickets-1985674562068 ★ Support this podcast ★

    1h 12m

  2. APR 7

    Little April Shower

    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 real local anxiety over petrol shortages and the impact of the NC500 "boy racers" sooking up all the fuel. We look again at CalMac ferries. The MV Lord of the Isles might be back in service, but a new tender for her replacement has been published with zero "social value" criteria baked into the scoring—meaning local companies won't get extra points over foreign competitors. We discuss the unions' anger and the structural split between CMAL and CalMac. We look at the Scottish election campaign. With discussions around whether to vote SNP with both votes, we examine the tactical voting dilemma, the Lib Dems snapping at the heels of the SNP in the Highlands, and the urgent need for a bold 'Highland manifesto'. Plus, a look at the struggles of Reform UK and a plea for some real, breakthrough domestic policies from the SNP. In this episode: International Crisis: The escalating tensions between Donald Trump and Iran, and the global anxiety it is causing.Highland Fuel Shortages: The impact of the NC500 on local communities and the anxiety over petrol in the Northwest.Ferry Procurement: Why the new tender for the Lord of the Isles replacement lacks "social value" criteria.CalMac & CMAL: The structural issues dividing the two bodiesScottish Election: SNP list seat strategies, the Lib Dem challenge in the Highlands, and why the SNP needs a distinct Highland manifesto.Reform UK: Their disastrous start to the Holyrood campaign.Links: Talking Up Scotland blog Union angry at no 'social value' score in new shipbuilding contract Barren Scotland - double bill film screeningSunday 12 April at 2pm, Newport on Tayhttps://www.ticketsource.com/the-larick-centre-tayport-community-trust/t-dkkjorm ★ Support this podcast ★

    1 hr

  3. APR 7

    Little April Showers

    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 real local anxiety over petrol shortages and the impact of the NC500 "boy racers" sooking up all the fuel. We look again at CalMac ferries. The MV Lord of the Isles might be back in service, but a new tender for her replacement has been published with zero "social value" criteria baked into the scoring—meaning local companies won't get extra points over foreign competitors. We discuss the unions' anger and the structural split between CMAL and CalMac. We look at the Scottish election campaign. With discussions around whether to vote SNP with both votes, we examine the tactical voting dilemma, the Lib Dems snapping at the heels of the SNP in the Highlands, and the urgent need for a bold 'Highland manifesto'. Plus, a look at the struggles of Reform UK and a plea for some real, breakthrough domestic policies from the SNP. In this episode: International Crisis: The escalating tensions between Donald Trump and Iran, and the global anxiety it is causing.Highland Fuel Shortages: The impact of the NC500 on local communities and the anxiety over petrol in the Northwest.Ferry Procurement: Why the new tender for the Lord of the Isles replacement lacks "social value" criteria.CalMac & CMAL: The structural issues dividing the two bodiesScottish Election: SNP list seat strategies, the Lib Dem challenge in the Highlands, and why the SNP needs a distinct Highland manifesto.Reform UK: Their disastrous start to the Holyrood campaign.Links: Talking Up Scotland blog Union angry at no 'social value' score in new shipbuilding contract Barren Scotland - double bill film screeningSunday 12 April at 2pm, Newport on Tayhttps://www.ticketsource.com/the-larick-centre-tayport-community-trust/t-dkkjorm ★ Support this podcast ★

    1 hr

  4. MAR 31

    March on Calton Hill

    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 takes the stage, and why some politicians still struggle to connect without an iPhone in hand. We analyse the BBC’s decision to use a massive national event merely as a backdrop for doorstepping politicians and what the appointment of an ex-Google boss as the new Director General means for the future of public service broadcasting. From the vital role of BBC Alba to the international reporting standards of Channel 4, we ask: who is actually telling our stories?. Plus, we dive into the Ferries as many folk look towards the Easter Weekend. We discuss activists targeting the Guga hunt in Ness, the ongoing and escalating energy crisis caused by Donald Trump's Iran War. LinksUpcoming film screenings https://lesleyriddoch.com/events Support the podcast https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe Former director of Maersk shipping predicting this could get as bad as the 1970s https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c78lj4976lvo The Parkinsons drugs warnings and excellent R4 progs https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckg0xxwn041o Channel 4 Seconder Kermani moving report on the paramedics kiled by the IDF https://www.channel4.com/news/funeral-for-two-young-lebanese-paramedics-killed-in-israeli-strike Danish centrist government gubbed https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-social-democrats-losing-election/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=alert&utm_campaign=Why%20Europe Surfing prog BBC Alba  https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0021dn7 Talking Up Scotland on ferries and islanders  https://talkingupscotlandtwo.com/2026/03/30/scotland-subsidises-its-ferries-far-more-than-any-other-country-subsidises-island-life-far-more-than-any-other-part-and-the-mull-service-is-98-reliable-for-half-empty-vehicle-decks/ ★ Support this podcast ★

    1h 15m

  5. MAR 24

    Can Holyrood handle the really big issues?

    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 and the fall out of their candidate selection. Plus the war in Iran and the impact on the global economy.  Support the podcast - https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe Finland Film Screenings - https://lesleyriddoch.com/events Portugal train purchasing - https://www.alstom.com/press-releases-news/2026/3/alstom-supply-153-trains-comboios-de-portugal-and-establish-manufacturing-facility-portugal ROSCOs https://weownit.org.uk/news/riding-rosco-gravy-train/ ★ Support this podcast ★

    1h 4m

  6. MAR 17

    St Patrick's Day and the joys of spring

    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 solutions, analysing how district heating and hydro energy allow countries like Finland to maintain energy security while the UK remains tethered to volatile fossil fuel markets. The mood shifts as we examine the continuing escalation in the Middle East. We discuss Donald Trump's "wasp's nest" approach to Iran, the tragic bombing of a girls’ school in Minab linked to outdated AI data, and the growing criticism of the BBC’s "sanitised" coverage of the conflict. We discuss the count down to the election and the SNP’s campaign conference at the weekend with some headline grabbing announcments. Plus the news that ‘Your Party’ like the Alba Party, won’t be contesting the Holyrood elections.  Plus, we look at the potential for political upheaval in Hungary, the latest goings on surrounding Peter Mandelson’s departure, and Lesley’s whirlwind tour of Scotland with her Finland film screenings. In this episode: St Patrick's Day Confidence: What Scotland can learn from the Irish approach to history and culture.The Heating Oil Crisis: Why £35 is a "hotchpotch" response to doubling energy bills for rural households.District Heating – Why Wait?: Analysing the Scandinavian model, where wasting industrial heat is against the law.Iran & The AI Failure: The devastating consequences of old data and the "distancing" language of modern warfare.BBC Under Fire: Ben Depeer’s critique of "if it bleeds, it leads" and the challenges of reporting from a bunker.The Mandelson Payoff: The "brazenness" of a £547,000 request following a reputational meltdown.Links Support the podcast with a monthly or annual subscription https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe Finland Film Screenings & Events Check the latest dates for Lesley's screenings across Scotland. https://lesleyriddoch.com/events Metagama: An Atlantic Odyssey https://www.facebook.com/p/Metagama-An-Atlantic-Odyssey-61557037868810/ 17 March: Birks Cinema, Aberfeldy 18 March: Universal Hall, Findhorn 19 March: Community Hall, Kincraig 20 March: Macphail Centre, Ullapool 21 March: Stratherrick Public Hall, Gorthleck 22 March: Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Isle of Skye 24 March: Cultarlann Inbhir Nis, Inverness 25 March: Appin Village Hall, Argyll 26 March: The Tolbooth, Stirling Tickets for village halls:https://tickets-scotland.com/events.html... Tickets for Macphail Centre:https://tickets.highlifehighland.com/.../highlife.../2031529 Tickets for all other venues:From venue box office & websites  'This acclaimed 5* live stage show tells the story of 1920s mass emigration from the Hebrides, featuring some of Scotland's top folk musicians and singers. The show has played to capacity audiences across the Highlands and Islands, Celtic Connections and HebCeltc Festival, with the current 2026 Scottish tour supported by Creative Scotland.'' ''The quality of the music is astonishing. A MUST LISEN! *****'' Folk London magazine''A story full of imense contemporary resonances. ****'' Joyce McMillan, The Scotsman''Top drawer music.'' Gary West, piper and piping podcast presenter''A night of exquisite music and storytelling. *****'' Inverness Courier An ensemble of acclaimed musicians and singers will carry you aboard the Metagama, a journey that will take you to the lakes and plains of Canada, to 1920s Detroit and Prohibition, through the ebb and flow of fortunes on both sides of the Atlantic.Join award-winning writer Donald S Murray, musician Liza Mulholland, actor and 7:84 Theatre founding player Dolina MacLennan, noted Gaelic singer John Joe Macneil, fiddler Charlie Mackerron of Capercaillie, singer-songwriter Willie Campbell, young up-and-coming cellist Juliette Lemoine, and visual artist Doug Robertson, in marking this historic event with an evening of music, song and story. This five-star show toured to great acclaim and capacity audiences in the Highlands & Islands in 2023 and followed this with a sell-out concert at Celtic Connections 2024. This current tour in March 2026 has secured support from Creative Scotland, ★ Support this podcast ★

    1h 17m

  7. MAR 10

    Rugby, Rockets, and Robots

    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 bombing of a girls' school in Minab, South Iran. We discuss the chilling rhetoric of the US administration, the surge in oil prices, and the stark contrast in European leadership—from Spain’s firm "no" on base access to the "swithering" internal dynamics of the UK Labour Party. Closer to home, we look at a genuine medical breakthrough: a pioneering study at NHS Grampian showing that AI can increase breast cancer detection by 10%. But it's not all good news for the tech world; we discuss Donald Trump’s targeting of Anthropic (the makers of Claude) and what the future holds for software development jobs. Plus, Lesley shares how she’s using AI to sift through a decade of Nordic research, and we look ahead to the march on Calton Hill on the 28th. In this episode: The Old Alliance Trophy: The story behind the silverware and Scotland’s continuing rugby streak.Iran & The "Short-Term Excursion": Analysing the school bombing in Minab and the global fallout of $120-a-barrel oil.Spain vs. The White House: Why Pedro Sanchez stood his ground while the UK government remains internally divided.AI—The Life Saver and the Supply Chain Risk: From the NHS Grampian breakthrough to Trump’s "stushie" with Anthropic.Gathering Again: March on Calton Hill on the 28th and Links Support the podcast with a monthly or annual subscription https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe Pioneering study finds AI increases cancer detection by more than 10 per cent https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjd9gn4j7dyo Andrew Redman’s "The March on Calton Hill" print https://andrewrbarr.com/portfolio/march-on-calton-hill/(Fraser highly recommends this one for your wall!) Lesley Riddoch: Reading Scotland at Newbattle Abbey College 12th March https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lesley-riddoch-reading-scotland-tickets-1982952469215 Finland Film Screenings - see all here https://lesleyriddoch.com/events Next up Dunfries - Friday 13 March https://rbcfilmtheatre.co.uk/all-listings/lesleyriddoch Greenock - Saturday 14 Marchhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/finland-the-happiest-country-that-almost-didnt-exist-tickets-1980199784862?aff=oddtdtcreator Artists for Independence - Oran Mor 14th March https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/independence-forum-scotland/were-putting-the-band-back-together-supporting-scottish-arts/e-rbjakz The 28th March And Rally Edinburghhttps://www.believeinscotland.org/march_and_rally_for_independence. The Lesley Riddoch Podcast with Fraser Thompson FYP4LeHoqefkfw4kYYtQ ★ Support this podcast ★

    1h 8m

  8. MAR 3

    Iran War - can the UK stay out?

    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 briefing John Swinney on the indictment of Peter Murrell and the conflict inherent in the dual role the Lord Advocate holds and the difficulty in parliamentary scrutiny. We look at the joint report from Scotonomics and the Scottish Currency Group - Scottish Government Bonds and Investing in Ourselves, highlighting the failure of the Scottish Government to consider independence when planning their bond issue and how the current framework for bonds continues the extractive nature of Scotland’s economy with an over-reliance on foreign direct investment.  Also in this episode, Labour’s one-day conference, Community energy news, data centres, and UK Labour’s problems following the Green win in the Gorton and Denton by-election. LinksSupport the podcasthttps://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe Scottish Government Bonds and Investing in Ourselveshttps://scotonomics.org/scottish-government-bonds-and-investing-in-ourselves/ Community energy - heat from Polmaise pit at Fallinhttps://www.thenational.scot/news/25606042.scottish-village-hopes-use-abandoned-mine-thermal-energy Film Screeningshttps://lesleyriddoch.com/events ★ Support this podcast ★

    1h 7m
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4.9
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Scottish politics dissected from a left, pro-independence stance. Each week, award-winning broadcaster and journalist, Lesley Riddoch chews over the week’s news with co-host Fraser Thompson. If you like intelligent, quirky chat about Scottish society and culture, and Scottish, UK and international politics analysed from a Scottish perspective; this podcast is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson
  • Years Active
    2007 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ℗ © 2025 A Feisty Production
  • Show Website
    The Lesley Riddoch Podcast

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