A weekly podcast from Glasgow that brings sharp commentary and real-time reaction to the ever-evolving world of business. Hosted by two of Scotland’s most influential entrepreneurs, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey,.
This is a front-row seat to how global economic shifts, political turbulence, and technological disruption are impacting businesses in Scotland and beyond.
Each episode also features candid conversations with Scotland’s top CEOs, founders, and innovators, unpacking how they are navigating uncertainty, adapting to change, and seizing new opportunities.
Through a no-nonsense Scottish lens, Hunter and Haughey offer grounded insight and practical advice for anyone in business — whether you’re scaling a startup or steering a legacy brand.
Made in Glasgow. Relevant Worldwide.
Episodes
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
Sunday Oct 05, 2025
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 Solutions
From 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 Zudoo
A 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/
Sunday Sep 28, 2025
Sunday Sep 28, 2025
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...
Sunday Sep 21, 2025
Sunday Sep 21, 2025
Air Date: September 21st, 2025
Special Guests: Jamie Hunter, COO of Aveni & John McCaig, Nexenergy.
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 Buzz
Discussion 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 Milestone
UK grid runs entirely on renewables for one hour—first time ever.
[00:09:09]
Economic Concerns
Inflation steady at 3.8%, but UK borrowing hits £83.8B. Lord Wolfson warns of anaemic growth.
[00:13:33]
Tax Breakdown
Willie shares eye-opening stats on who pays what in UK taxes.
[00:15:31]
Hospitality Industry Struggles
Tennent's and C&C Group confirm sector-wide challenges.
[00:15:56]
Scottish Government Praise
Support 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/
Sunday Sep 14, 2025
Sunday Sep 14, 2025
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 Debate
Lord 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 Flexibility
Tom 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 & Absenteeism
UK 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 Incentives
A real-life example of someone choosing benefits over employment sparks a discussion on how the system may disincentivise work.
[00:12:30]
Regulation & Unemployment
Willie 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 Plan
Tom and Willie debate Musk’s ambitious compensation package. Willie predicts Elon will leave Tesla within two years.
[00:16:27]
Chinese EVs Disrupting the Market
Arnold Clark reports Chinese EVs are high-quality and low-cost. Elon Musk faces serious competition.
[00:21:34]
Whisky Diplomacy
Scotland’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 Project
Edinburgh-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 Innovation
Clyde Hydrogen’s breakthrough could make green hydrogen more efficient and viable. Backed by Ecotricity’s Dale Vince.
[00:29:01]
Wood Group’s Collapse
Sold for £242M after once being valued at £1.6B. Tom and Willie blame poor acquisitions and bad management.
[00:31:05]
ScotRail’s Apprentice Intake
ScotRail, 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 Investment
McGill’s announces a new depot and 300 buses for Glasgow’s Tradeston—revitalising a neglected area.
[00:33:18]
France’s Political & Financial Crisis
France installs its fifth PM in three years. Willie warns of contagion and investor pullback across Europe.
[00:35:57] UK Investment Exodus
Jim 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 Crisis
Landlords 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 Park
A 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 Afford
Tom and Willie advise Movement Park on how to attract charitable donations and corporate support to scale their impact.
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...
Sunday Sep 07, 2025
Sunday Sep 07, 2025
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 Boost
Norway eyes Type 26 frigates—could this revive Clyde shipbuilding and spark local economic growth?
[00:05:33]
Farewell to Liz Cameron, CBE
Celebrating 21 years at the Scottish Chambers of Commerce. What’s next for this influential leader?
[00:06:46]
Budget Worries & Labour Party Tensions
Leaked budget plans stir concern—impact on NI, housing, and business confidence.
[00:10:16]
Brexit & COVID Fallout
A candid look at the long-term economic damage from Brexit and the lingering effects of the pandemic.
[00:12:08]
Unemployment Spike & Debt Crisis
Hospitality 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 Breakthrough
Scottish Gas Networks repurposes 18 miles of pipeline—small step, big potential for clean energy.
[00:25:20]
Housing Emergency & Ministerial Response
New housing minister Màiri McAllan faces rising costs, skills shortages, and investor hesitancy.
[00:29:05]
Build-to-Rent Sector Optimism
Policy shifts could unlock housing investment and support long-term recovery.
[00:30:47]
Angel Capital Scotland & EDGE Funding
New leadership and £3.6M in funding for Scottish EDGE—boosting early-stage businesses.
[00:34:59]
Glasgow Beats Edinburgh in Start-Ups
Glasgow sees an 8% rise in new businesses—entrepreneurial momentum builds.
[00:36:10]
Kiltwalk & Community Spirit
Sir Chris Hoy joins the Edinburgh Kiltwalk—raising funds and morale across Scotland.
[00:37:03]
SME Survey & Growth Concerns
80% of SMEs fear stagnation; Bank of England reports fastest job cuts in 4 years.
[00:40:08]
Gilts, Bonds & Budget Pressure
Government borrowing costs soar—Willie and Tom call for bold growth strategies.
[00:43:18]
“If You Ruled Scotland” Initiative
Hunter Foundation invites pupils to share their vision—£5K prize and leadership academy access.
[00:44:27]
Format Changes & Audience Engagement
New studio, new ideas—Willie and Tom want your input on future episodes!
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.
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...
Sunday Jun 29, 2025
Sunday Jun 29, 2025
Air Date: June 29th 2025
Hosts: Sir Tom Hunter & Lord Willie Haughey
Special Guests: Andrew Donaldson (CEO, James Donaldson Group) & Laura Porter (Founder, Fab Salons and FAB Skincare)
Episode Summary
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.
Please Rate and Review The Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-go-radio-business-show-with-hunter-haughey/id1549012107
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 weeks guests:
Andrew Donaldson:
21) Andrew Donaldson | LinkedIn
Donaldson Group:
(21) Donaldson Group: Overview | LinkedIn
Laura Porter:
https://www.instagram.com/fab.skincare?igsh=MWVjMmc2NjFiazM4aw==
https://www.instagram.com/fabsalons?igsh=a2R1dm9rN2tiMTht
https://www.instagram.com/fab_lauraporter?igsh=MTY3bTc2Zzk5YmpiZg==
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
Sunday Jun 22, 2025
Sunday Jun 22, 2025
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.
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
Connect with this weeks guest, Stuart Black.
Stuart’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-black-a73b7211/
Connect and Follow Highland and Islands Enterprise:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/highlands-&-islands-enterprise/?viewAsMember=true
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/highlandsandislandsenterprise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiescotland/
For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
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 intelligence, Demis Hassabis DeepMind, future of AI in business, AI disruption 2025, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, renewable energy Scotland, Green Freeport Scotland, offshore wind investment, Sumitomo Scotland, regional economic development, Scotland space industry, UK satellite launch, Sutherland spaceport, SaxaVord Shetland, cyber threats to business, ethical hacking Scotland, Cyber and Fraud Centre, Jude McCorry, business cybersecurity tips
Sunday Jun 15, 2025
Sunday Jun 15, 2025
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:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-muslek-17571888/
Rebecca Hansen MD, WYRE:
LinkedIn: WYRE
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
Sunday Jun 08, 2025
Sunday Jun 08, 2025
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
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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
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
Sunday Jun 01, 2025
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 endorsement of Bloom’s data-driven football model.
Optimism for Hearts’ future under new strategic direction.
[00:45:28]
Board You Can’t Afford: Tracy Collins, MRG
Tracy’s journey from recruitment to co-founding MRG.
Starting in a welding shop office and pivoting post-COVID.
Expansion into Aberdeen and Manchester.
[00:52:11]
Scaling Culture During Growth
Tracy’s question on maintaining company culture across locations.
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...
Elon Musk political career, UK housing crisis 2025, Scottish entrepreneurship, Colin Frame Stellar Omada, Tracy Collins MRG recruitment, Angel investing in Scotland, Clyde Gateway regeneration, Prestwick Airport growth, Hearts FC investment Tony Bloom, Cost of living UK 2025, Middle-class tax reform UK, Skilled labour shortages Scotland, Adult apprenticeships UK, RBS collapse ABN Amro, Tech consultancy Scotland, Scaling company culture, Scottish EDGE funding, Big Hearts charity partnership.