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The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
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100 episodes
2 days ago
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Entrepreneurship
Education,
Business
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Episodes (20/100)
The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Clean Energy, Big Deals & Why Scotland’s Future Looks Bright
Air Date: November 23rd, 2025 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays from 11am with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! In this episode of The Go Radio Business Show, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey dive into the hottest topics shaping Scotland’s business landscape. From the looming budget and its impact on small businesses to bold ideas for housing reform, renewable energy investment, and scaling up Scotland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem—this conversation is packed with insights, candid opinions, and practical advice. Expect sharp analysis on: Budget Speculation & Business Impact: Why small businesses need hope, not hurdles. Housing Crisis & Planning Bottlenecks: Calls for a “pro-housing minister” and radical simplification. Entrepreneurship & Scale-Up Vision: Ana Stewart’s roadmap for making Scotland a world-class scale-up nation. Clean Energy Boom: SSE’s £33 billion investment and Tag Energy’s wind farm projects. Aerospace Growth: Landmark deal could create 4,000 jobs and boost exports. Creative Energy Solutions: From mini nuclear reactors to heating homes with garden-shed data centres. Global Entrepreneurship Week: Why collaboration matters more than ever. Positive Vibes: Scotland’s World Cup hopes and the economic ripple effect of national pride. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBoA8NYTpHtff-aHpC2es4NU-DfV7CdEG  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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2 days ago
31 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Scotland’s Political Power Play, Budget Backlash, AI Shake-Up & Elon Musk’s Trillion-Dollar Bet
Air Date: November 16th, 2025 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays from 11am with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! Expect sharp analysis on: Political Power Play: Six party leaders face Scotland’s business community ahead of next year’s election. Budget Backlash: Income tax U-turns, NI cuts, and what rising unemployment means for growth. AI Market Shake-Up: SoftBank’s $5.8B Nvidia exit and Michael Burry’s warning on inflated valuations. Elon Musk’s Trillion-Dollar Bet: Can Tesla hit an $8.5T market cap? Green Energy Wins: Syntec Fuel’s biofuel plant promises 200 new jobs in Grangemouth. Warren Buffett Wisdom: Timeless investment lessons and why avoiding problems beats solving them. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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1 week ago
33 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Reeves’ Budget Hints, Cost of Living Crisis & Chemistry Breakthroughs with Professor Lee Cronin
Air Date: November 9th, 2025 Special Guest: Professor Lee Cronin, founder and CEO of Chemify, Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! In this episode of the Go Radio Business Show, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey dive deep into the UK’s economic landscape, dissecting pre-budget statements, the rising national debt, and the political rhetoric surrounding tax hikes. With sharp insights and candid commentary, they explore the implications for businesses, public services, and the cost-of-living crisis. But the real showstopper? A riveting interview with Professor Lee Cronin, founder and CEO of Chemify, whose journey from dismantling washing machines as a child to pioneering programmable chemistry is nothing short of extraordinary. Lee shares how his Glasgow-based startup is revolutionising drug discovery and manufacturing, with ambitions to become the “Google of chemistry.” Budget Breakdown: Why temporary tax hikes might be palatable - and necessary. Debt & Deficit: UK’s £2.6 trillion debt and its impact on public services. Chemify’s Mission: Discovering the origin of life, curing cancer, and building a global HQ in Glasgow. AI Meets Chemistry: How Chemify’s “chemifarms” are transforming molecule discovery. Skills Crisis & College Funding: The urgent need to invest in trades and education. SME Confidence Dip: 57% of Scottish SMEs expect profit drops—what can be done? Scotland & Independence: A candid discussion on economic viability and the need for “clever thinking.” Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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2 weeks ago
53 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Inflation, Employment, and the Impact of AI Innovation
Air Date: November 2nd, 2025 Special Guest: Ross McNairn, founder of Wordsmith AI. Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! Economic Watchpoints: Inflation, unemployment, and interest rates take centre stage as the hosts unpack predictions from Goldman Sachs and the Bank of England’s next move. Petrofac’s Plunge: A candid discussion on the energy giant’s troubles, mismanagement, and the ripple effects on jobs in the North Sea. AI’s Double-Edged Sword: From Nvidia’s meteoric rise to Amazon layoffs, the hosts explore how AI is transforming industries—and threatening jobs. Planning Gridlock: Scotland’s housing crisis and planning delays spark debate on leadership, bureaucracy, and the need for reform. Energy Anxiety: Willie shares firsthand accounts of energy poverty and discusses Ofgem’s messaging around debt relief. Entrepreneur Spotlight: Ross McNairn, founder of Wordsmith AI, shares his inspiring journey from lawyer to tech innovator, raising $30M and powering legal teams across Europe. Sales Geek Scotland: Davie Sneddon joins the “Board You Can’t Afford” to discuss scaling a franchise, recruiting the right talent, and building a national sales support network. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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3 weeks ago
57 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Big Bets & Bold Moves: £50M Innovation, Housing Fixes, Skills Crisis, and a £30M Entrepreneurial Journey
Air Date: October 26th, 2025 Special Guest:  Nishant Sharma, Founder and CEO of Rutland Square Spirits. Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! Major Investment News:  Glasgow-based Chemify secures £50M in Series B funding to revolutionise chemical design with “3D printing for molecules.” The £166M Waste Scandal Biffa sues Scottish Government over failed recycling scheme. Hosts call out accountability and taxpayer impact. Policy & Economy Watch: Rachel Reeves’ bold plans to tackle housing shortages, cut red tape for SMEs, and unlock billions from pension funds to boost UK growth. Why inflation holding at 3.8% could save the UK £3B in interest payments—and what that means for your business. Skills Crisis Spotlight: 240,000 tradespeople needed by 2030—plus why Scotland is importing welders from the Philippines and what needs to change. Prestwick Airport Success: From criticism to praise: how Prestwick became a leading UK cargo hub and created 150 new jobs. Special Guest: Meet Nishant Sharma, founder of Rutland Square Spirits, whose story spans continents—from £500 in his pocket to building a £30M gin and whisky brand with global ambitions. Nish shares: How resilience and pivoting turned rejection into opportunity. Why purpose matters more than profit. His advice for anyone facing setbacks: “Bet on yourself.” Board You Can’t Afford: Euan Cameron of Cohesion Medical on the future of health data, the challenges of scaling in Scotland, and whether to stay or go when investors call. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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1 month ago
56 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Budget Fears, Energy Battles & From Rolls to Risk: McIlvogue’s Morton’s Revival
Air Date: October 19th, 2025 Special Guest: John McIlvogue, MD of Morton’s Rolls Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! Economic Reality Check: Willie and Tom break down the latest GDP, inflation, and unemployment figures, and what they mean for UK businesses. Cost of Living Crisis: Why it’s still the number one issue politicians need to tackle - and how energy costs and policy decisions play a huge role. Energy & Renewables: From North Sea oil taxes to Scotland landing a major wind turbine factory deal, we explore the future of energy and jobs. Global Business Moves: Chinese investment controversies, semiconductor security, and the jaw-dropping profitability of Temu in Europe. Industry Shake-Ups: Car finance scandals, AI bubble warnings, and Lloyds setting aside £2 billion - what’s next for automotive and tech? Special Guest Spotlight: John McIlvogue, MD of Morton’s Rolls, shares his remarkable journey from a council estate in Greenock to building businesses in flooring, whisky and bakeries! His story is full of resilience, risk-taking, and bold moves. Future Ventures: Muscle cars and plant-based food - why John believes these are the next big opportunities. One Golden Tip for Entrepreneurs - John’s advice for anyone facing tough times in business: “The worst that can happen? You go skint. Then do it again.” Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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1 month ago
54 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Bricks, Bytes, Billionaires and Balanced Pizza
Air Date: October 12th, 2025 Special Guests: Donnie MacLean: The founder of Eat Balanced and Pawel Zakrzewski: Founder of Edinburgh Combat Project. Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter. This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! In this dynamic episode, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey dive into the hottest topics shaping Scotland’s business landscape: RBS’s Game-Changing Finance Move: Intellectual property becomes collateral as RBS opens new funding avenues for tech, gaming, and life sciences. Scottish Budget Preview: Tom unveils his “Build Baby Build” manifesto, calling for AI-driven planning reform and urgent investment in trades to tackle Scotland’s housing crisis. Tax Talk That Broke the Internet: The duo revisit their viral debate on taxation, fairness, and the risk of driving wealth creators away. EV Innovation & Energy Milestones: Scotland’s only off-road EV startup secures £2M in funding, while clean energy overtakes coal globally. Special Guest: Donnie MacLean: The founder of Eat Balanced Donnie shares his rollercoaster journey from supermarket setbacks to stealth health success, now serving millions of school meals and launching a new venture, Sell to Retire. Board You Can't Afford: Pawel Zakrzewski: Founder of Edinburgh Combat Project. Combat with a Cause: Pawel blends martial arts with charity to support neurodivergent and underprivileged youth, with big dreams of scaling across the UK. Packed with insights, inspiration, and real talk, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and anyone passionate about Scotland’s future. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...  
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1 month ago
52 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Cyber Threats, Entrepreneurial Grit & AI-Driven Growth
Air Date: October 5th, 2025 Special Guests: Jamie Burns, MD Ailsa Reliability Solutions and Paul Duffy, the newly appointed MD of Zudu. Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter. This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! Cybersecurity Wake-Up Call: A deep dive into the Jaguar Land Rover cyberattack and the growing threat landscape. Willie and Tom share personal experiences and stress the urgent need for businesses to invest in digital protection. PPE Scandal Fallout: The hosts unpack the High Court ruling against PPE Medpro and discuss political accountability, fraud recovery, and the implications for public trust. Scotland’s Defence & Energy Boost: Positive news as Scotland secures a share of a £250M UK defence innovation fund and opens a new Energy Transition Hub in Aberdeen, promising thousands of jobs. Walkers Shortbread & Willow Tech: Celebrating Scottish success stories—from record revenues at Walkers to Willow’s AI-powered recruitment platform tackling fake CVs. Guest Spotlight: Jamie Burns, MD of Ailsa Reliability SolutionsFrom delivering Chinese takeaways during COVID to leading a cutting-edge predictive maintenance tech firm, Jamie shares his gritty entrepreneurial journey, the power of data-driven insights, and his vision to scale to £100M turnover. Board You Can't Afford: Paul Duffy, MD of ZudooA fresh face with a human-first approach to AI, Paul discusses scaling software delivery, building relationships, and keeping tech grounded in empathy. Final Thought: The episode closes with a powerful discussion on staying “relentlessly human” in business—balancing strategy with compassion, and leading with integrity. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... Connect with the Guests: Jamie Burns Personal LinkedIn: (17) Jamie Burns | LinkedIn Ailsa Reliability Solutions Ltd Company LinkedIn: (17) Ailsa Reliability Solutions Ltd.: Overview | LinkedIn Ailsa ESG Solutions LinkedIn: (17) Ailsa ESG Solutions: Overview | LinkedIn Company YouTube Page: Ailsa Reliability Solutions - YouTube   Paul Duffy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul--duffy/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/zudu/ https://zudu.co.uk/team/paul-duffy/      
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1 month ago
54 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Jobs, Growth & Bold Ideas for Scotland’s Future
Air Date: September 28th, 2025 Special Guests: Ana Stewart, Chief Entrepreneur for the Scottish Government and Caroline Meikle of Pitman Training. Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter. This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! AI Boom in Ayrshire: A £385M investment in Irvine promises to transform the region into a tech hub, but questions around energy infrastructure loom large. Powering the Future: Lord Haughey and Sir Tom debate nuclear energy, North Sea oil, and the realistic timelines for clean energy transitions. Housing Crisis Solutions: From rent caps to compulsory purchase reform, they explore what it’ll take to build more homes and attract investment. Global Talent & Visas: Trump’s visa hike sparks a bold idea—Scotland should welcome top global talent with open arms and streamlined relocation support. Entrepreneurship & Scale-Ups: Special guest Ana Stewart, Chief Entrepreneur for the Scottish Government, shares insights from the Female Founders Growth Summit and her mission to supercharge Scotland’s startup ecosystem. Board You Can’t Afford: Caroline Meikle of Pitman Training joins to discuss vocational education, leadership, and the courage needed in modern business and politics. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...  
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1 month ago
55 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Hunter & Haughey Talk Tech, Trump, and Taxes
Air Date: September 21st, 2025 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter. This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! This episode dives into hydrogen innovation, AI in financial services, major investments in Scotland, and scaling up in the renewable energy sector. Plus, a special guest shares startup insights and funding tips. [00:02:20] Trump’s UK Visit & Investment BuzzDiscussion on Trump’s state visit, business announcements, and AI investments including Microsoft, Nvidia, and CoreWeave’s £1.5B data centre in Lanarkshire. [00:07:46] Renewables MilestoneUK grid runs entirely on renewables for one hour—first time ever. [00:09:09] Economic ConcernsInflation steady at 3.8%, but UK borrowing hits £83.8B. Lord Wolfson warns of anaemic growth. [00:13:33] Tax BreakdownWillie shares eye-opening stats on who pays what in UK taxes. [00:15:31] Hospitality Industry StrugglesTennent's and C&C Group confirm sector-wide challenges. [00:15:56] Scottish Government PraiseSupport for Alexander Dennis bus maker and housing sector reforms. [00:21:41] Kiltwalk Success£8M raised for 1,800 charities in 2025; £58M over 10 years. [00:22:26] – [00:44:02] Special Guest: Jamie Hunter, COO of Aveni. Startup Journey: From accountant to AI entrepreneur. Funding Wins: Scottish Edge, angel syndicates, and £20M raised. Scaling Tips: Investor readiness, storytelling, & professionalising pitch decks. AI in Finance: Augmenting advisors, not replacing them. Future Plans: Expansion into EU and US markets. Board You Can’t Afford: John McCaig, Nexenergy [00:44:55] – [00:55:06] Scaling Solar & Battery Storage: Insights from Ayrshire’s renewable sector. The Go Radio Business Show, on air every Sunday from 11am-12pm across Scotland on DAB, Online, Smart Speaker <launch Go Radio> and on the Go Radio App. The Go Radio Business Show in Association with WYRE, for affordable and comprehensive EV leasing solutions through their Salary Boost scheme. www.trywyre.com Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... Connect with the Guests: Jamie Hunter, COO of Aveni. Website - https://aveni.ai/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/aveni-ai/ Personal Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-hunter-a1284b93/ John McCaig, Nexenergy Website: www.nex-energy.co.uk Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nex-energy-ltd/ Personal Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-m-169362120/  
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2 months ago
55 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Employment Reform & Economic Reality: Hunter & Haughey Break It Down
Air Date: September 14th, 2025 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter. This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm with WYRE (www.trywyre.com) Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! [00:02:06] Employment Rights Bill DebateLord Stuart Rose warns of a looming crisis. Willie critiques Labour’s plan to give full employment rights from day one, arguing it could hurt small businesses and job creation. [00:05:00] Worker Rights vs FlexibilityTom and Willie compare global employment laws—from Australia to Singapore to the US—and debate the balance between fairness and flexibility. [00:07:22] Sick Pay & AbsenteeismUK sick leave hits a 15-year high. Is it entitlement or necessity? The hosts explore the unintended consequences of generous policies. [00:10:34] Benefits vs Work IncentivesA real-life example of someone choosing benefits over employment sparks a discussion on how the system may disincentivise work. [00:12:30] Regulation & UnemploymentWillie warns that over-regulation could push unemployment above 5%. Tom calls for smarter policy that supports both workers and employers. [00:13:02] Elon Musk’s Trillion-Dollar Pay PlanTom and Willie debate Musk’s ambitious compensation package. Willie predicts Elon will leave Tesla within two years. [00:16:27] Chinese EVs Disrupting the MarketArnold Clark reports Chinese EVs are high-quality and low-cost. Elon Musk faces serious competition. [00:21:34] Whisky DiplomacyScotland’s First Minister meets Trump to discuss US tariffs on Scotch. Willie calls it a “brilliant bit of politicking.” [00:24:19] Fidra’s £750M Battery ProjectEdinburgh-based FIDRA secures massive funding to build the UK’s largest battery—powering 780,000 homes and contributing 11% of the UK’s 2030 energy goals. [00:25:39] Hydrogen InnovationClyde Hydrogen’s breakthrough could make green hydrogen more efficient and viable. Backed by Ecotricity’s Dale Vince. [00:29:01] Wood Group’s CollapseSold for £242M after once being valued at £1.6B. Tom and Willie blame poor acquisitions and bad management. [00:31:05] ScotRail’s Apprentice IntakeScotRail, now government-run, celebrates its largest-ever apprentice intake. Willie praises the move as a win for vocational training. [00:32:06] McGill’s £25M Depot InvestmentMcGill’s announces a new depot and 300 buses for Glasgow’s Tradeston—revitalising a neglected area. [00:33:18] France’s Political & Financial CrisisFrance installs its fifth PM in three years. Willie warns of contagion and investor pullback across Europe. [00:35:57] UK Investment ExodusJim Ratcliffe and Maersk pull major investments from the UK. Tom and Willie call for urgent reform to make the UK competitive again. [00:40:12] Housing CrisisLandlords are selling up, rental supply is at a record low. The Scottish government declared a crisis in May 2024—but has done little since. [00:43:51] Charity Spotlight: Movement ParkA Glasgow-based charity promoting urban sports and family fitness seeks anchor funding to expand into Dundee and Edinburgh by repurposing underused golf courses. [00:48:27] Board You Can’t AffordTom and Willie advise Movement Park on how to attract charitable donations and corporate support to scale their impact. The Go Radio Business Show, om air every Sunday from 11am-12pm across Scotland on DAB, Online, Smart Speaker <launch Go Radio> and on the Go Radio App. The Go Radio Business Show in Association with WYRE, for affordable and comprehensive EV leasing solutions through their Salary Boost scheme. www.trywyre.com Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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2 months ago
53 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Hunter & Haughey Return: Shipbuilding, Startups, and Scotland’s Future
Air Date: September 7th, 2025 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter. This is a catch-up version of the weekly, Go Radio Business Show, Sundays between 11am-12pm.  Don’t miss it – PLAY and HIT SUBSCRIBE, and NEVER miss an episode! [00:01:05] £10 Billion Shipbuilding BoostNorway eyes Type 26 frigates—could this revive Clyde shipbuilding and spark local economic growth? [00:05:33] Farewell to Liz Cameron, CBECelebrating 21 years at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce. What’s next for this influential leader? [00:06:46] Budget Worries & Labour Party TensionsLeaked budget plans stir concern—impact on NI, housing, and business confidence. [00:10:16] Brexit & COVID FalloutA candid look at the long-term economic damage from Brexit and the lingering effects of the pandemic. [00:12:08] Unemployment Spike & Debt CrisisHospitality hit hard, unemployment up 167%, and UK debt could hit 200% of GDP by 2050. [00:16:22] Scotland’s Local Authority Debt£21B in council debt—calls grow for shared services and structural reform. [00:22:39] Hydrogen Infrastructure BreakthroughScottish Gas Networks repurposes 18 miles of pipeline—small step, big potential for clean energy. [00:25:20] Housing Emergency & Ministerial ResponseNew housing minister Màiri McAllan faces rising costs, skills shortages, and investor hesitancy. [00:29:05] Build-to-Rent Sector OptimismPolicy shifts could unlock housing investment and support long-term recovery. [00:30:47] Angel Capital Scotland & EDGE FundingNew leadership and £3.6M in funding for Scottish EDGE—boosting early-stage businesses. [00:34:59] Glasgow Beats Edinburgh in Start-UpsGlasgow sees an 8% rise in new businesses—entrepreneurial momentum builds. [00:36:10] Kiltwalk & Community SpiritSir Chris Hoy joins the Edinburgh Kiltwalk—raising funds and morale across Scotland. [00:37:03] SME Survey & Growth Concerns80% of SMEs fear stagnation; Bank of England reports fastest job cuts in 4 years. [00:40:08] Gilts, Bonds & Budget PressureGovernment borrowing costs soar—Willie and Tom call for bold growth strategies. [00:43:18] “If You Ruled Scotland” InitiativeHunter Foundation invites pupils to share their vision—£5K prize and leadership academy access. [00:44:27] Format Changes & Audience EngagementNew studio, new ideas—Willie and Tom want your input on future episodes! The Go Radio Business Show, om air every Sunday from 11am-12pm across Scotland on DAB, Online, Smart Speaker <launch Go Radio> and on the Go Radio App. Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...  
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2 months ago
48 minutes

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Housing Crisis, Donaldson Family Business Legacy & Beauty Brand Growth
Air Date: June 29th 2025Hosts: Sir Tom Hunter & Lord Willie HaugheySpecial Guests: Andrew Donaldson (CEO, James Donaldson Group) & Laura Porter (Founder, Fab Salons)   Episode Summary In this season finale, Tom and Willie tackle Scotland’s housing emergency, business rates disparity, and the future of clean energy. They’re joined by Andrew Donaldson, CEO of the 165-year-old Donaldson Group, who shares insights on solving the housing crisis through innovation and collaboration. On the ‘Board You Can’t Afford’ Laura Porter, founder of FAB Salons and FAB Skincare, discusses scaling a beauty brand post-COVID and launching a teen skincare line.   Timestamps & Topics [00:01:33] Housing Levy Controversy Willie challenges a proposed builder tax. Urges alternative funding for remediation post-Grenfell. [00:04:10] Green Energy Progress Gren’s district heating project on the Clyde. DFYNE named UK’s fastest-growing private company. [00:05:52] BuzzWorks Management Buyout Kenny Blair leads MBO. Plans to scale to £100M turnover. Business rates disparity between Scotland and England. [00:11:56] Tea Fraudster Sentenced Fraudulent “Scottish-grown” tea scam lands 3.5-year sentence. [00:13:45] Derek Pierce’s Expansion New £15M factory in Bellshill. Hundreds of jobs created. [00:14:42] Housing Emergency – Still No Action Frustration over lack of progress since May 2024. Urgent need for a national housing plan. [00:16:18] Nuclear Power & Energy Costs Advocating for nuclear as part of clean energy mix. UK’s high industrial energy costs vs. Europe. [00:19:27] Redundancies to Tackle Budget Deficit Scottish government eyes civil service cuts. Call for efficiency over taxation.   [00:22:24] Guest Interview: Andrew Donaldson, CEO of Donaldson Group Legacy & Leadership 6th-generation family business, founded in 1858. 50 sites across the UK, 1,500+ employees. Timber & Sustainability 75% imported timber; 25% homegrown. Challenges with UK-grown timber for structural use. Housing Crisis Solutions Donaldson Group operating at 50% capacity. Advocates for standardised house types to cut planning costs. Collaboration with Octopus Energy for zero-bill, carbon-positive homes. Family Business Governance Strong governance and decentralised leadership. Preparing the next generation with no pressure to join. [00:46:21] Board You Can’t Afford Interview: Laura Porter, Founder of Fab Salons and FAB Skincare. Entrepreneurial Journey Launched post-COVID with no prior business background. Grew from salon treatments to a 14-product cosmetic line. Scaling Challenges Self-funded growth using salon profits. Plans to launch a teen skincare range. Advice from Willie Grow within your means. Consider smart money from strategic investors. Never overpromise to large buyers. [00:54:43] Season Wrap-Up Sir Tom and Lord Haughey reflect on the season’s impact. Encouragement for Scottish businesses. Looking forward to a refreshed return after summer.   Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... Scottish housing crisis 2025, Donaldson Group timber solutions, BuzzWorks management buyout, Scottish business rates vs England, Fab Salons Glasgow, Laura Porter cosmetics, Go Radio Business Show podcast, Andrew Donaldson interview, Family business governance UK, Zero-bill homes Scotland
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4 months ago
56 minutes 18 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
From Oil Shocks to AI Surges: Scotland’s Business Future Unpacked
In this episode of the Go Radio Business Show, Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey discuss the global economic impact of rising oil prices due to Middle East tensions, the UK’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis, and Labour’s proposed housing investment in Scotland. They explore the rapid rise of AI, including talent wars and future disruption, and highlight major developments in Scotland’s renewable energy and space sectors with guest Stuart Black of Highlands and Islands Enterprise. The episode also features Jude McCorry, CEO of the Cyber and Fraud Centre, who emphasises the growing importance of cybersecurity for businesses. Highlights & Insights [00:01:06] Global Geopolitics & Oil Middle East conflict (Iran & Israel) and its impact on oil prices. Strait of Hormuz: 40% of global oil passes through. Oil price could rise from $66 to $120/barrel. Potential global inflation and supply chain disruption. [00:04:41] UK Inflation & Cost of Living May inflation: 3.4%, down slightly from April. Cost of essentials up 25% since 2021. Discussion on price gouging and lack of market correction. [00:07:20] Housing & Labour Policy Labour’s £16B National Housing Bank plan. Scotland to receive £1.9B in consequential. Opportunity to address housing crisis. [00:09:12] SME Builders & Skills Shortage Decline in small housebuilders due to red tape and inflation. Need for skilled trades and national strategy. [00:11:03] New Housing Minister Mairi McAllan appointed to lead housing efforts. appointed to lead housing efforts. Positive reception from hosts. [00:11:51] Scale-Up Funding News Merger of Par Equity and Praetura Ventures into PXN Group. Focus: equity funding from £800K to £8M. £670M AUM, £115M in investments. [00:13:00] AI Talent Wars Meta allegedly offering $100M signing bonuses to OpenAI staff. Concerns about rising costs and talent poaching. [00:14:46] AI Disruption & Opportunity Insights from Demis Hassabis (DeepMind): AGI could rival humans in 5 years. Potential to solve climate change and disease. Urges businesses to prepare for rapid disruption. [00:17:55] AI Risks & Fusion Challenge Discussion on AI’s energy consumption. Call for AI to help solve nuclear fusion. Concerns about job displacement. [00:19:44] Entrepreneurial Scotland Andy Lothian appointed new chair. Organisation has sent 1,000+ students on global internships. [00:20:18] Crown Estate & Offshore Wind Rule changes unlock £400M for offshore wind supply chain. Positive step for renewables. [00:22:04] Guest Interview: Stuart Black (HIE CEO) Highlands and Islands aiming to be a net-zero region. £100B+ potential investment over 10–15 years. Major projects: Sumitomo, Green Freeport, Aventus. [00:29:58] Housing Needs in the Highlands Need for housing to support job growth. Historical reference to Scottish Special Housing Association. [00:31:08] Debate: One Enterprise Agency? Stuart defends HIE’s independence. Tailored regional strategies and community focus.  [00:35:05] Seamless Investment Experience Example: Sumitomo and Aventus praised Scotland’s support. Importance of Scottish Development International (SDI). [00:39:37] Space Industry in Scotland Development of Spaceport One, Sutherland, and SaxaVord. Scotland to launch satellites within a year. [00:42:03] The Board You Can’t Afford: Jude McCorry CEO of Cyber and Fraud Centre. Journey from PR to cybersecurity leadership. Challenges during COVID and business transformation. 00:49:26] Cybersecurity Awareness Businesses often ignore cyber risks until attacked. Ethical hacking and proactive testing recommended. Willie shares personal experience with a cyberattack.   UK inflation 2025, global oil prices, Strait of Hormuz, cost of living crisis, economic outlook Scotland, business impact of Middle East conflict, Labour housing policy, National Housing Bank, Scotland housing investment, SME builders Scotland, housing crisis UK, AI talent war, Meta vs OpenAI, artificial general in
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5 months ago
53 minutes 28 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Innovation Nation: AI, Energy, EVs & the Entrepreneurs Driving Change
In this episode of the Go Radio Business Show, Sir Tom and Lord Willie dive into the latest in AI innovation, energy infrastructure, and entrepreneurial journeys. They’re joined by Brian Muslek, MD of Hugh Stirling, who shares his inspiring business transformation story, and Rebecca Hansen, MD of WYRE, is on the Board You Can’t Afford and explains how her company is revolutionising EV salary sacrifice schemes in the UK. Highlights [00:01:10] AI & Tech Conference in London Keir Starmer opens the event. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang praises UK’s AI talent. Infrastructure investment needed to stay competitive. [00:03:02] The Power Crisis & Data Centres UK’s high energy costs. Need for renewable energy investment. Norway’s model of hydro and sovereign wealth. [00:06:21] Snoop Dogg at Celtic Park? Snoop Dogg’s burger stall idea. American influence in Scottish football. [00:09:03] Musk vs. Trump Twitter Feud Elon Musk’s controversial tweets. Investor intervention to de-escalate. Potential impact on Tesla and SpaceX valuations. [00:11:27] Springburn Engineering Win Gibson Engineering lands TFL contract. 40 new jobs created in Glasgow. [00:13:02] Housing Crisis & Labour’s 1.5M Homes Pledge Unrealistic targets without planning reform. AI in planning systems being trialled in England. [00:15:31] Brand Scotland & Glasgow Airport Strike £100K grant to Chamber of Commerce. Potential strike at Glasgow Airport. [00:16:20] Special Segment: Reeves’ Review  Sir Tom and Lord Haughey catch up on a call on Friday (after the show was recorded) to bring us their reaction to the Governments spending review. [00:21:14] Guest Interview: Brian Muslek – MD, Hugh Stirling Key Highlights: From retail to FM and construction. Turned a £6M lifestyle business into a £14M diversified company. Lessons in cash flow, leadership, and resilience. Importance of recurring revenue and diversification (e.g., fire doors). Value of peer support through Entrepreneurial Scotland.   [00:42:10] Board You Can’t Afford: Rebecca Hansen – MD, WYRE Key Highlights: WYRE offers a unique EV salary sacrifice platform. Shifts liability from employer to employee. Ideal for high-turnover sectors like football. Employees save £4,500 a year; employers save £1,500 a year. Cultural challenges in UK adoption vs. US.   Resources & Mentions Brian Muslek, MD, Hugh Stirling Ltd: www.hughstirling.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-muslek-17571888/   Rebecca Hansen MD, WYRE:                 www.trywyre.com   Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...   Go Radio Business Show, UK business podcast, Scottish entrepreneurship podcast, business transformation stories, business podcast UK 2025, Sir Tom Hunter podcast, Lord Willie Haughey podcast, UK AI innovation, AI conference London 2025, Jensen Huang UK AI, AI in urban planning, AI and infrastructure UK, Keir Starmer AI speech, UK energy crisis 2025, renewable energy investment UK, data centre power demand, Norway hydro energy model, UK infrastructure investment, EV salary sacrifice UK, WYRE EV platform, electric vehicle tax savings UK, sustainable transport incentives, EV benefits for employers, Brian Muslek Hugh Stirling, business diversification strategies, FM and construction growth, recurring revenue models, Entrepreneurial Scotland network, Labour housing pledge 2025, 1.5 million homes UK, AI in housing planning, UK housing crisis solutions, Elon Musk Trump Twitter feud, Snoop Dogg Celtic Park, Glasgow Airport strike news, Springburn engineering jobs  
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5 months ago
55 minutes 52 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Inside Scotland’s Growth Crisis: Debt, Defence, and the AI Opportunity
In this episode Hunter and Haughey dive deep into the economic challenges and opportunities facing Scotland, from council debt and energy policy to AI innovation and defence investment. Special guests are David Wade, MD of Enerpro and Stuart Patrick, CEO of Glasgow's Chamber of Commerce chats about Glasgow’s growth strategy.   [00:01:12] Council Debt Crisis Edinburgh’s £1.7B debt and potential rise to £2B. Leadership and accountability in local government. [00:04:01]  Growth vs. Taxation “No country has ever taxed its way to growth.” Infrastructure investment and defence spending. [00:06:24] Defence Industry & Economic Impact Shipbuilding resurgence in Rosyth and Govan. Political reluctance vs. economic opportunity. [00:07:19] North Sea Energy Policy Robert Gordon University report: 400 jobs at risk every fortnight. Call for balanced energy policy: hydrocarbons + renewables. [00:10:36] Tech & AI Job Creation Gordon Brown’s report: 300,000 potential jobs in AI and science. Wordsmith AI: Fastest Scottish startup to $100M valuation. [00:13:21] Rangers FC Takeover American investment led by San Francisco 49ers. Fan expectations and managerial changes. [00:15:00] Global Economic Concerns Bloomberg economists: lack of GDP growth is the biggest threat. Critique of UK’s 10-year growth plan. [00:21:26] Glasgow Chamber of Commerce Update Stuart Patrick on city growth, infrastructure, and innovation. Glasgow’s role in clean energy, life sciences, and manufacturing. [00:31:44] Guest Interview: David Wade, MD of Enerpro From Thurso to global engineering leader. Oil & gas, renewables, and nuclear sector insights. Challenges in apprenticeships and government energy policy. Culture, coaching, and leadership in business growth.   Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...   David Wade and Enerpro Social Network: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-wade-4767baaa/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/enerpro-group/ https://www.facebook.com/Enerprogroup   Glasgow Chamber of Commerce: https://www.glasgowchamberofcommerce.com/    Scottish Economy, Edinburgh Council Debt,UK Infrastructure Spending, North Sea Oil Jobs, Renewable Energy Scotland, Shipbuilding in Govan & Rosyth, AI Startups Scotland, Wordsmith AI, Rangers FC Takeover, Glasgow Innovation District, Enerpro Engineering, David Wade Entrepreneur, Apprenticeship Crisis UK, Oil and Gas Transition, Scottish Engineering Talent, Business Growth Strategy, Trywire Electric Vehicles, Oxford Economics Singapore Report, Gordon Brown Job Creation Plan  
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5 months ago
53 minutes 39 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Housing, Inflation, Electric Cars and the £20M Tech Disruptor
In this episode of the Go Radio Business Show, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey dive into a wide range of topics—from Elon Musk’s political stint and the UK housing crisis to Scottish entrepreneurship and regeneration projects. Special guest Colin Frame, MD of Stellar Omada, shares his inspiring journey from rural Scotland to leading a £20M tech consultancy. And Tracy Collins, co-founder of MRG, joins “The Board You Can’t Afford” to discuss scaling culture in a fast-growing recruitment firm.   [00:01:27] Elon Musk’s Political Tenure Analysis of Musk’s five-month stint in U.S. government. Claims of $175 billion in savings vs. original $2 trillion goal. Tensions with Donald Trump and implications for Musk’s ventures.   [00:04:22] Trump’s Tariffs Ruled Illegal U.S. court ruling against Trump’s tariffs. Broader implications for global trade and Scottish businesses. Executive orders and their impact on supply chains and inflation.   [00:05:35] Cost of Living Crisis in the UK Case study of a single mother earning £45K and still struggling. Breakdown of her monthly income and expenses. Discussion on universal credit and the need to “make work pay.”   [00:07:25] Middle-Class Squeeze Challenges for middle-income earners in saving money. Call for tax reform and better support structures.   [00:08:00] Immigration & Skilled Labour Shortages UK’s new immigration rules affecting construction workers. Risk of skilled labour drain from Scotland to England. Need for a coordinated skills and housing strategy.   [00:10:47] Apprenticeships & Re-Skilling Initiatives Government’s push for adult apprenticeships. Willie’s plan to retrain ex-forces personnel in trades. Call for a national strategy to address housing and labor gaps.   [00:11:24] Tony Bloom’s Investment in Hearts FC £10M investment for a 29% stake in Hearts. Discussion on Bloom’s data-driven “Moneyball” strategy. Potential for cross-club player development and trading.   [00:14:46] Tribute to Sir Tom Farmer Recognition of Sir Tom’s legacy in business and football. His role in saving Hibernian FC and contributions to Scottish entrepreneurship.   [00:16:22] Angel Investing in Scotland Angel Capital Scotland reports £106M in early-stage investments. Importance of angel networks in supporting startups. Connection to Scottish EDGE and entrepreneurial ecosystem.   [00:17:40] Clyde Gateway Regeneration Project £500M redevelopment of Shawfield in Glasgow’s East End. Mixed-use development: housing, offices, hotels. Praise for Clyde Gateway’s long-term regeneration blueprint.   [00:19:45] Prestwick Airport’s Growth Increase in passenger and freight traffic. Ryanair expansion and exports of Scottish produce. Government ownership seen as a success story.   [00:20:42] Government Engagement on Housing Willie’s meetings with SNIB and Scottish ministers. Encouraging signs of political will to address housing crisis. Hopes for collaborative solutions in coming months.   [00:22:49] Guest Interview: Colin Frame, MD of Stellar Omada Colin’s rural upbringing in Biggar and early exposure to hard work. Career journey from RBS to founding a £20M tech consultancy. Lessons from working on major banking integrations and failures.   [00:30:00] Reflections on RBS Collapse First-hand account of the ABN Amro acquisition fallout. Emotional impact on staff and shareholders.   [00:34:29] Founding Stellar Omada Early failures and lessons learned from previous ventures. Breakthrough project in Northampton and business model evolution.   [00:38:09] Stellar’s Growth & Diversification Launch of Stellar Connect (recruitment) and Stellar Elevate (education). Focus on tech talent, testing, and programme recovery. £100M revenue goal and management team expansion. [00:42:24] Partnership with Hearts FC Deep involvement with Big Hearts charity and community outreach. Use of Tynecastle Stadium for innovation and education programs.   [00:44:06] Thoughts on Tony Bloom’s Hearts Investment Colin’s endorsem
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5 months ago
56 minutes 6 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Scotland’s Future, Business Leadership, and the GAP Success Blueprint
In this episode, Sir Tom and Lord Haughey dive into Scotland’s economic future, discussing leadership, housing reform, planning efficiency, and clean energy goals. They emphasise the need for bold political action and pro-business policies, drawing lessons from Ireland and Singapore. Special guests are Ian and Douglas Anderson of GAP Hire Solutions. The brothers share their journey from a family-run plant hire business to a £300M+ national enterprise. They discuss succession planning, strategic growth, the importance of consistency, and the challenges of theft and taxation in the industry.   Episode Highlights   [02:18] Fast Wins for Scotland: Housing & Planning Immediate actions the government can take on housing. Issues with rent caps and investor uncertainty. Planning system inefficiencies compared to Singapore. [04:27] Clean Energy Ambitions Vision for Scotland to become the first 100% clean energy nation. Importance of UK government collaboration and investment. [06:43] Planning Reform & Leadership Need for bold decisions to remove blockers in planning. Critique of current system and call for streamlined processes. [08:46] Pro-Business Culture: Lessons from Singapore & Ireland Making Scotland the most welcoming place for business. Anecdote: Walmart’s experience in China and the power of top-down leadership. [12:07] Political Commentary: Keir Starmer’s EU Deal Praise for Starmer’s strategic EU negotiations. Economic implications and potential GDP growth. Concerns over inheritance tax and business property relief.   [22:30] Special Guests: Ian & Douglas Anderson of GAP Hire Solutions [23:03] The GAP Story: From Family Roots to National Success Founded in 1969 by their father. Early careers outside the family business. Importance of external experience before joining. [28:34] Succession Planning & Family Business Culture Emphasis on merit and commitment. Third generation now involved and thriving. [30:51] Growth Milestones & Strategic Decisions Acquisition of Henderson Plant doubled business size. Shift from operated to non-operated plant hire. Focus on scalable, consistent services. [38:52] Business Scale & Market Position Over £300M turnover, 2,000+ staff, 65% of depots owned. 90% growth through organic expansion. Third or fourth largest in UK, under 5% market share. [46:21] Challenges: Theft & Security in Plant Hire Theft of small tools and mini excavators increasing. Investment in CCTV and safety protocols. [48:02] How to Hire from GAP Website and direct contact details shared. Ian Anderson gives out his personal number for customer service. [49:11] Inheritance Tax & Business Property Relief (BPR) Concerns over proposed changes to BPR. Potential impact on family businesses and reinvestment. Call for government to reconsider April 2026 changes.   Join the Conversation  What did you think of this episode?  Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok  For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... Scotland Economy, Sir Tom Hunter, Lord Willie Haughey, GAP Hire Solutions, Ian Anderson, Douglas Anderson, Scottish Business, Clean Energy Scotland, Housing Reform, Planning Efficiency, Succession Planning, Family Business, UK Politics, Keir Starmer EU Deal, Business Property Relief, Inheritance Tax UK, Scottish Leadership, Pro-Business Policies, Economic Growth, Plant Hire Industry, Theft in Construction, Business Strategy, Entrepreneurship UK, Scotland Future, Irish Economy, Singapore Business Model
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6 months ago
55 minutes 9 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Scotland’s Future: Lessons from Singapore
Scotland’s Future: Lessons from Singapore & Bold Ideas for Change Episode Summary In this pivotal episode, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey explore Scotland’s economic crossroads, drawing inspiration from Singapore’s transformation. They’re also joined by Willie Watt, Chair of the Scottish National Investment Bank (SNIB), who shares insights into how SNIB is tackling inequality, housing, and net zero challenges through strategic investment. This episode is a rallying cry for bold leadership, long-term planning, and radical reform to secure Scotland’s future. Episode Summary [01:08] Scotland’s Decline: A State of the Nation Address Education, NHS, and economic performance in decline. Reference to the PISA study and Scotland’s fall in global rankings. [06:10] Learning from Singapore Singapore’s transformation from poverty to prosperity. Leadership, vision, and execution under Lee Kuan Yew. [09:24] Housing Emergency in Scotland One year after declaring a housing emergency, fewer homes are being built. The need for policy stability to attract investment. [12:38] The Case for Radical Reform Scotland’s managed decline and the call for a second Enlightenment. Clean energy and housing as twin pillars of recovery. [16:23] Fiscal Autonomy & Tax Policy Proposal for Scotland to become an enterprise zone. Discussion on income tax disparities and attracting talent. [20:23] Leadership & Governance The need for competent, well-paid leadership. Comparison with Singapore’s meritocratic system. [26:44] Immigration & Skills Scotland’s demographic challenges. Call for a merit-based immigration system and skills revolution. [31:57] Planning Reform & Business Growth Planning delays stifling economic development. Singapore’s 35-day planning approval vs. Scotland’s 150+ days. [34:50] Tax Take vs. Tax Rate Encouraging wealth creators to invest in Scotland. Importance of stable, growth-oriented tax policy.   [42:08] Guest Segment: Willie Watt, Chair of SNIB About SNIB Established by an Act of the Scottish Parliament with cross-party support. Mission: Use commercial finance to address long-standing structural issues in Scotland: Inequality Net Zero Transition Productivity & Innovation   Key Insights from Willie Watt [43:20] Funding Challenges SNIB is not funded like a traditional bank. Operates under restrictive fiscal rules—must use capital within the financial year. Advocates for multi-year funding flexibility and reinvestment of profits to become a perpetual institution. [46:08] Investment Focus Areas Affordable Housing: 750+ units funded through Thriving, targeting essential workers. Innovation: Investment in Utopi, a SaaS platform for smart building energy management. Net Zero: £50M invested in Port of Ardersier, a strategic offshore wind hub. [52:22] Planning & Policy Bottlenecks Planning delays are a major barrier to investment. Advocates for a presumption in favor of development, similar to Portugal. Warns that Scotland risks falling behind if England’s planning reforms outpace Scotland’s. [59:03] What SNIB Looks for in Businesses Scale-up stage with proven revenue and strong leadership. Investment range: £2M–£10M, with potential for follow-on funding. Preference for businesses with: Disruptive potential Intellectual capital Realistic, robust business plans [01:02:11] SNIB’s Role in Solving the Housing Crisis SNIB is ready and willing to support housing solutions. Emphasises the need for collaboration with government and policy stability to unlock private investment.   Resources: The Hunter Foundation – Singapore Report Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode?Email: goradiobusiness@go.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Intagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tok Tok For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQDaPNV/?mibextid=wwXIfr  Email: GoBuisness@thisisgo.co.uk   
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6 months ago
1 hour 4 minutes 46 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.
Global Trade Deals, Gates’ Billions, Buffett’s Wisdom, + the £6K Startup That Became a £50M Adventure
Go Radio Business Show [00:01:12] Scottish Government & CalMac Ferries £3.9B allocated to CalMac over 10 years. Discussion on public vs. commercial service models. Accountability issues in public sector ferry management. [00:03:10] Interest Rate Cuts & Economic Outlook UK interest rate drops to 4.25%. ECB hints at further cuts to 2.75%. Debate on inflation, tariffs, and economic stimulation. [00:05:00] UK Growth Indicators & Trade Optimism around GDP growth and low inflation. Concerns about unemployment and trade alignment with the US. [00:06:08] US-UK Trade Deal & Tariffs Donald Trump praises UK and Keir Starmer. Concerns over food imports (e.g., cloned chicken). Positive developments in steel, cars, and aerospace sectors. [00:08:12] Global Business Icons: Gates, Musk & Buffett Bill Gates pledges $200B to global health by 2045. Criticism of Elon Musk over aid cuts. Warren Buffett’s legacy, quotes, and investment philosophy. [00:18:30] Corporate Highlights: Next & Scottish Power Next reports over £1B in profits. £600M investment in Scottish Power for clean energy transition. Job losses in oil sector vs. green job opportunities. [00:20:34] Scottish Edge & Entrepreneurial Support £1.2M funding boost for Scottish Edge. Praise for Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes. [00:22:02] Glasgow Chamber of Commerce Update Stuart Patrick discusses: Free trade agreements with India and the US. Glasgow’s role in international trade missions. £350M investment in Glasgow Airport. Concerns over rent control and parking fines. [00:34:28] Special Guest: Neil Lapping, Macs Adventure Neil’s journey from South Africa to Scotland. Founding Macs Adventure with £6,000 in debt. Growth from 10 to 200+ employees and £50M+ revenue. Impact of COVID-19 and business resilience. Importance of customer obsession and mentorship. Community impact through local tourism and sustainability. [00:53:11] Macs Adventure Information 200+ guided and self-guided trips across the UK and Europe. Focus on immersive, sustainable travel experiences. [00:54:16] Next Week’s Teaser: The Singapore Model Preview of a special episode exploring what Scotland can learn from Singapore’s economic strategy.     Keywords Go Radio Business Show, Scottish business podcast, Trywire electric cars, CalMac ferry funding, UK interest rate cut 2025, Donald Trump UK trade deal, Bill Gates philanthropy 2045, Warren Buffett investment quotes, Macs Adventure founder story, Neil Lapping entrepreneur, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Scottish Edge funding, Glasgow Airport investment, UK-India trade deal, UK-US trade agreement 2025, Clean energy Scotland, Scottish tourism business, Adventure travel Scotland, Sustainable tourism UK, Business mentorship success  
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6 months ago
55 minutes 22 seconds

The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.