Scots Whay Hae!

For the latest SWH! podcast we welcome back writer, storyteller, and mountaineer John Burns who was a guest previously when he talked about his novel 'Sky Dance' as well as his fascinating life. During that chat he mentioned his one-man show about infamous occultist Aleister Crowley, and we thought we had to talk to him again to learn more about this controversial historical figure. If you thought you knew about Crowley, then this may change your mind. If you have no idea who he is, prepare to be intrigued.

For the latest SWH! podcast the Braidwood brothers got back together following their previous chat about their favourite Scottish records of the 1980s to talk about what they were listening to in the 90s. Once again they pick 10 records from the decade and discuss what they mean to them, and why. With one in Aberdeen for much of that time, and the other in Glasgow, it's interesting to learn how their listening habits were influenced by where they lived, and what they were up to.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to writer Alan Parks about his latest Harry McCoy thriller, Bobby March Will Live Forever. The two discuss the world of Harry McCoy and those who share it, the importance of returning characters, why he set the novels in 1970s Glasgow, the city's complex relationship with crime and its criminals, the inspirations for Bobby March, and why he is unlikely to write a novel based in the music business. The Harry McCoy novels are among the most exciting of recent times, and it's fascinating to get an insight into the influences and ideas behind them. With a fourth on the way, and hopefully many more to follow, Alan Parks is set to deliver a crime series which will stand the test of time.

Please forgive the indulgence, but for our first podcast using Zoom Ali caught up with Braemar Gallery owner and gig-promoter Andy Braidwood, who just happens to be his brother. The primary reason was to see if this worked as a way to podcast, but also for the two to catch up and talk about the most influential Scottish music of their formative years. Each pick ten albums or EPs from before 1990 which mean something important to them, and they discuss who, what, when, and why. We hope it's as enjoyable for you to listen to as it clearly was for the brothers to record. If nothing else it proves we can continue with the SWH! podcasts in these peculiar times.

For the latest podcast SWH! spoke to documentary filmmaker Darren Hercher about his film Dooman, which airs on BBC Scotland on Tuesday 31st March, 10pm. Shot against the striking backdrop of Inverclyde, Hercher looks at the world of 'doo-flyers' in Greenock, and he explains why he took on the project, the relationships involved, the importance of getting beyond his own - and viewers - initial expectations to uncover the individual stories, explains that time spent filming is never wasted, why each film has to develop its own life and character, suggests that less is often more when it comes to soundtrack, and a whole lot more.

For the latest podcast SWH! caught up with writer Vicki Jarrett to talk about her latest novel Always North (out now, published by Unsung Stories). As Vicki explains, it's a story that has been over 10 years in the telling from the inspiration of an unforgettable video to final publication. She discusses the themes and ideas which are at the book's heart, the vital role of her central character and the moral dilemmas she faces, the coincidental yet prescient timing of publication, the speculative writers who have inspired her, and a whole lot more.

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to Cammy and Raindeer from one of SWH!'s favourite bands, Mitchell Museum. The two were on to discuss their latest album Skinny Tricks, which is out on Scottish Fiction on the 15th May. With bassist Kris unfortunately sidelined, the brothers talked about the themes and inspirations behind the album, the dangers of unexpected national radio play, the collaborative nature of how they work, the changes witnessed over 10 years releasing music, the importance of albums having a strong individual identity, how they manage to sound different on each record yet still undeniably like themselves, and so, so, much more. It's a fascinating insight into the band and the making of what we're saying is destined to be a classic.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to actor and producer Carina Birrell all about 'Harry Birrell Presents Films of Love & War' ahead of its broadcast on BBC Scotland on 17th March. The film was a labour of love for Carina as Harry is her grandfather, and the film centres on his astonishing film footage and diaries. The conversation touches on how the film came to be, Harry's love of film and his amazing life, his time in and out of the army, the important role of director Matt Pinder, how actor Richard Madden became involved, what it means to Carina that it has made it onto screens, and the amazing synchronicity that seems to be attached to the film. It's a poignant and heart-warming half hour that gives insight and context to what is an incredible documentary of the 20th century through one man's eyes.

For the latest of our podcasts in collaboration with Scottish Opera we spoke to Associate Chorus Master and repetiteur, Susannah Wapshott. Susannah joined the company in 2008, and there are few people better placed to give an insight and overview to the workings of Scottish Opera. She discusses her various roles and the extensive collaboration involved. She also explains how her career has unfolded from a young age, her musical background and training, the challenges she has faced, the personal highlights of her time with the company, and offers advice for anyone interested in working in opera.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali caught up with previous guest, writer Iain Maloney. A visit from Iain is always a special occasion as he resides in Japan, and his latest book, The Only Gaijin In The Village, is all about his experiences of moving to and living in another country, and coming to terms with the resulting clash of cultures. Maloney may be better known as a novelist, but the The Only Gaijin In The Village is a fascinating book, and arguably his best yet and it was illuminating to talk to Iain about why he decided to write it and dig a bit deeper into many of the themes and ideas contained.

For the latest in our series of Glasgow Film Festival 2020 podcasts Ali spoke to director Josh David Jordan, actor & producer Jessica Marie Jordan, and actor & musician Greg Schroeder about their film 'This World Won't Break'. As you'll hear, this is an incredibly personal film for all of those involved, and they explain why this is, why no-one but Greg was going to play the central character of Wes, discuss the complex relationship between fathers and sons, the problem of loneliness, the marriage of blues and booze, how place and space play an important part in the film, the way in which the music is a character in its own right, and so much more. You get the feeling that the sublime 'This World Won't Break' could not, and would not, have been made by any other group of people, and this shared vision is as clear in our conversation as it is in the film itself, about which you can find more at https://www.thisworldwontbreak.com/

For the latest in our series of Glasgow Film Festival podcasts, Ali spoke to director Scott Graham, about his latest feature 'Run', which follows on from the success of previous films 'Shell' and 'Iona' and which shares some of their themes. Graham talks about those themes, as well as what inspired 'Run', the influence of the music of Bruce Springsteen, the challenges of family life, the escape of joy-riding, the practicalities of filming in and out of cars, and the peculiar dynamics of small towns. 'Run' is an exceptional film, with memorable performances from all, and it is fascinating to hear the thoughts of the director now the film is being shown to audiences. It is a conversation which lends the film itself further dimensions.

For the latest of SWH!'s Glasgow Film Festival 2020 podcasts Ali spoke to a previous guest, director Peter Mackie Burns, who told us all about his latest feature 'Rialto', which will be at the festival on 27th Feb (with a Q&A) and, if you miss that, on the afternoon of the 28th. Peter explains the story of the film's title, why it's set in Dublin, the themes and thoughts behind the film, the importance of 'Rialto's' score, and just what, and who, drew him to the project in the first place. It's always a pleasure to catch up with Peter, and this was no exception as he gives a fascinating insight into his film making process, and a whole lot more.

For the latest of SWH!'s Glasgow Film Festival 2020 podcasts Ali spoke to a previous guest, director Peter Mackie Burns, who told us all about his latest feature 'Rialto', which will be at the festival on 27th Feb (with a Q&A) and, if you miss that, on the afternoon of the 28th. Peter explains the story of the film's title, why it's set in Dublin, the themes and thoughts behind the film, the importance of 'Rialto's' score, and just what, and who, drew him to the project in the first place. It's always a pleasure to catch up with Peter, and this was no exception as he gives a fascinating insight into his film making process, and a whole lot more.

For the latest podcast Ali caught up with poet, performer, and story-teller Leyla Josephine to talk about her show 'Daddy Drag' which is going to be at Glasgow's Tron Theatre (26-29th Feb) after it's acclaimed run at this year's Edinburgh Fringe. This is a show which "asks audiences to consider how relationships (or lack of) with our fathers affect us, and, to reflect on the imprints they leave behind", and Leyla discusses the origins of the show, the vital role her mum plays, the challenges of an Edinburgh run, the details of drag, how theatre differs from her spoken word, the importance of the latter in her life, story-telling, and loads more.

For the latest of our podcasts in collaboration with Scottish Opera we spoke to the company's General Director Alex Reedijk, and it proved to be a fascinating conversation - one which adds extra context to the other podcasts in the series. Alex talks about how he came to the role, what makes it so special, the challenges faced when he joined 14 years ago, the four central strands that run through the company's ethos, and what he is most proud of from his time with Scottish Opera. It's a must listen, not only for opera fans and followers, but for anyone involved in the arts as Alex gives a rare insight into what is involved in the organisation and running of such a prestigious company.

For the latest podcast Ali spoke with Keira Brown about the inaugural Paisley Book Festival (20th-29th Feb). As well as hearing all about the fantastic programme of events, Keira explains the festival's theme of 'radical voices and rebel stories', the celebration of local hero John Byrne, the wide and varied range of what's available, some of the many, many highlights, the importance of place as well as people, and just what it takes to organise and plan such a festival. As well as this she takes time to talk about The Fountain, one of the best cultural review websites around which is a must read for all visitors to SWH!. All in all, it's a conversation you don't want to miss.

For the latest podcast Ali met up with one of SWH!'s favourite writers, M.J. Nicholls, to discuss in detail his latest novel, 'Scotland Before The Bomb' - one of the most inventive, and funniest, books of recent years. The conversation touches upon Nicholls' reasons for writing, the themes and form of his previous work, how he came to have an American publisher, his approach to being a writer, his influences, the importance of not being overly earnest, and loads more. This is an interview we've been looking forward to for some time, and if you are a reader, writer, or book lover of any kind, then you'll find this a fascinating listen.

For the first of our podcasts celebrating this year's Glasgow Film Festival we spoke to festival co-directors Allison Gardner and Allan Hunter. What unfolded was a warm, fun, and fascinating chat about this year's programme, the challenges of programming a festival, the GFF ethos, the multiple strands, how the festival has grown, and some memories of past galas and glories. It's a lovely conversation with two film-lovers, who are clearly great friends, and who believe they have their ideal jobs. Talking to them, and considering festivals past as well as the amazing programme for 2020, we would have to agree.

For the latest Scottish Opera podcast we spoke to one of the company's Emerging Artists, Arthur Bruce. The SO Emerging Artist programme is now in its 10th year, and, as Arthur explains, it is hugely important in developing and supporting all areas of opera, helping to ensure the future remains bright. He also discusses how his interest in opera began, his musical background, the challenges of acting, the productions he has been involved in, and why this programme has been so important to him on a personal level. Arthur is the first performer we have interviewed for these podcasts and this makes for a fascinating insight into the role, both onstage and off.