Scotcast

In this engaging conversation, Darshini David, the BBC's Deputy Economics Editor, breaks down the complexities of the upcoming budget. She discusses possible tax rises and the implications for everyday people, emphasizing that changes often ripple through the economy. The dialogue shifts to Scotland’s potato farmers facing challenges from climate change and market demands, showcasing their resilience amid changing conditions. Listeners gain insight into both economic policies and agricultural struggles in a rapidly transforming landscape.

In this chat, Lord Jack McConnell, former First Minister of Scotland and architect of the Scotland-Malawi Partnership, shares insights into two decades of Scottish aid efforts in Malawi. He discusses the significance of historical ties and the socio-political landscape of Malawi, emphasizing the country’s challenges. McConnell defends ongoing Scottish engagement despite UK budget cuts and addresses sensitive issues like governance and LGBT laws, highlighting the importance of diplomacy alongside grassroots support.

Russell Martin (pictured left) was escorted from the stadium following his final game as Rangers manager while Steve Clarke (pictured right) has been criticised despite guiding Scotland to the brink of World Cup qualification.We ask former national team boss Craig Levein and the BBC’s Chris McLaughlin why so many football fans have become so angry.And Martin is unnerved by a stark comparison to Alan Partridge. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk

If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Referendum plan revealed’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002gfsl John Swinney’s strategy for holding an independence referendum has been backed by party members at the SNP conference in Aberdeen. Martin and Natalie discuss why the First Minister has set the bar so high while Newscast’s Chris Mason sums up the mood within the major parties as the conference season concludes. And Martin explains why he'd rather not have the trauma of Scotland qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler, Natalie Higgins and Laura Miller. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk

If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘River City goes to Holyrood’ https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002b61k STV bosses have defended accusations of 'financial mismanagement' and 'cultural vandalism' after announcing plans to cut jobs and axe a north of Scotland news programme. Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins discuss what the proposed cuts could signal for the mainstream media in Scotland. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk

The Scottish Government has been warned The Promise – a pledge to improve the lives of care-experienced young people championed by Nicola Sturgeon – is progressing too slowly. Jamie Dalgoutte, who grew up in the care system, tells us what life was like. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk

If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like our interview with former Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002h9s7 Still reeling from general election defeat, Conservative politicians and members are gathering at their conference in Manchester. Former Scottish Conservative head of media Adam Morris and the BBC’s Glenn Campbell tell us what leaders Russell Findlay and Kemi Badenoch need to do to turn party fortunes around. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk

If you’re interested in this episode, you may also like ‘Humza Yousaf on Trump and Gaza’: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0027lr4 John Swinney has been heckled while speaking at a vigil marking the anniversary of the 7 October attacks by Hamas on Israel. The BBC’s David Wallace Lockhart tells us why the First Minister’s views on Palestinian statehood were met with jeers. And Martin explains why you should check the smallprint on your passport before going to the airport. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk

In 1989, John Davidson (pictured in 2025) was on TV screens as a sad and lonely teenager in the documentary 'John's Not Mad'. John tells us what it’s like to have his life and journey with Tourette’s syndrome turned into a feature film, I Swear, and of his pride in Billie Eilish and Lewis Capaldi. Scotcast is the BBC’s Scottish news podcast, with Martin Geissler, Laura Miller and Natalie Higgins. Get in touch: scotcast@bbc.co.uk Photo credit: Eoin CareyAdditional material: STUDIOCANAL

Laura Kuenssberg, a seasoned political journalist, dives into the scandal surrounding Michelle Mone's PPE Medpro, revealing details of their controversial interview and the hefty damages awarded. Georgina Hayes, a BBC reporter focused on housing, outlines transformative changes in the Housing (Scotland) Bill, including new rules for pet ownership and decorating in rented homes. She also explains the implications of local rent control zones and discusses the reactions from landlords and tenants regarding the 6% rent cap.