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 Mar 16, 2025
Sunday Mar 16, 2025
Go Radio Business Show - Season 10, Episode 9
[00:00:33]
Discussion on Labour Party's Workers' Rights Bill
Sir Tom Hunter expresses concerns about the Labour Party's workers' rights bill, discussing its potential impact on businesses. Highlighting the bill's possible negative effects on business costs.
[00:01:17]:
Nicola Sturgeon's Political Legacy
Discussion on Nicola Sturgeon's decision not to stand for re-election and her impact on Scotland.
Reflection on Sturgeon's approval ratings and her handling of COVID-19.
Critique of Sturgeon's record on education, noting a decline in Scotland's educational standards.
[00:04:28]:
Business Engagement with Government
Discussion about the improved engagement between businesses and the new First Minister and Deputy First Minister. Emphasising the importance of government engagement with business leaders.
[00:06:17]
Dundee University Redundancies
Discussion on the potential redundancies at Dundee University due to financial mismanagement. Speculation on the underlying issues and the impact on the university's life sciences department.
[00:08:24]:
Scottish Government's Net Zero Bill
Criticism of the bill aimed at achieving net zero, arguing it would make people poorer. Detailed discussion on the bill's requirements and its financial implications for homeowners.
[00:13:07]
Electric Cars and Clean Energy
Lord Haughey advocates for a scientific approach to achieving net zero and discusses the potential of clean energy in Scotland. Mention of a Glasgow-based fintech business receiving significant investment.
[00:16:38]
Elon Musk and the American Economy
Discussion on Elon Musk's recent controversies and the impact on Tesla's market value.
Highlighting corruption allegations against the current U.S. administration.
[00:25:25]
Interview with Samantha Smith, Co-Founder of Super Scalers
Samantha Smith, who shares her entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Super Scalers.
[00:32:17]
Sam discusses the importance of supporting underrepresented founders and promoting inclusive business cultures.
[00:45:59]
Board You Can’t Afford
Ralston Contracts - Landscaping Business
Natalie Anderson from Ralston Contracts, discusses the challenges and successes of her landscaping business.
Natalie shares her business goals and the importance of quality and customer satisfaction and has a question for Sir Tom and Lord Haughey.
A link to Senator Chris Murphy's speech that Lord Haughey mentions in this episode below.
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to talk about the Trump administration’s first six weeks in office.
https://youtu.be/hycoCYenXls?feature=shared
Keywords: Business podcast, Go Radio Business Show, Entrepreneurship podcast, Business insights, Business news, Business strategies, Business growth, Business advice, Labour Party workers' rights bill, Nicola Sturgeon political legacy, Scottish politics, Dundee University redundancies, Net zero bill Scotland, Clean energy Scotland, Electric cars transition, Elon Musk, American economy impact, Super Scalers interview, Samantha Smith entrepreneur, Underrepresented founders, Inclusive business culture, Ralston Contracts landscaping, Landscaping business growth
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Sunday Mar 09, 2025
Go Radio Business Show - Season 10, Episode 8
Business News Highlights
[00:01:21]
Politics and Business
Intertwining of Politics and Business: Discussion on how politics and business have been closely linked over the past six weeks.
US Political Turmoil: Republicans and Democrats clashing, with dramatic scenes involving fire bombs and smoke bombs.
Impact of Tariffs: Tariffs imposed by the US president are raising prices, slowing economic growth, cutting profits, increasing unemployment, diminishing productivity, and increasing global tensions.
[00:05:00]
US and Global Relations
US Isolationism: The US is becoming more insulated, with significant influence from China in the Panama Canal.
Ukraine Conflict: Misrepresentation of financial contributions to the Ukraine conflict by the US and Europe.
Trump's Approach to Ukraine: Trump's focus on economic interests in Ukraine, suggesting access to Ukraine's resources in exchange for support.
[00:10:00]
UK Business and Politics
Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement: Anticipation of the statement with no headroom due to increased borrowing costs.
Workers Rights Bill: Concerns about the bill giving equal protections to new and long-term employees, potentially increasing business costs and inflation.
[00:15:00]
Apprenticeships and Education
Russell Findlay's Proposal: Suggestion that kids should be allowed to leave school at 14 if they have an apprenticeship.
Tax Deductible Apprenticeships: Proposal for making apprenticeship costs tax-deductible to encourage businesses to take on apprentices.
[00:20:00]
Scottish Politics and Business
Inheritance Tax for Businesses: Discussion on the unfairness of the Business Property Relief (BPR) and efforts to address it.
Scottish Elections: Proposal to invite Scotlands leading politicians to discuss their business policies for the upcoming elections.
[00:25:00]
Economic Outlook
Hope for Economic Growth: Despite global turmoil, there is optimism for economic growth.
Scottish National Investment Bank: Investment in high-growth companies and the impact on the economy.
[00:30:00]
Glasgow Business News
Weir Group Acquisition: Glasgow-based Weir Group's acquisition of an Australian software company for $657 million.
Ferry Construction Delays: Three-month delay in ferry construction by a Turkish company due to marine engineering issues.
[00:35:00]
Drinking at Football Matches
Proposal to Allow Drinking: Discussion on the potential lifting of the ban on drinking at football matches, comparing it to rugby matches where drinking is allowed.
[00:21:46]
Interview with Tony Rodgers
Tony Rodgers' background and journey to becoming CEO of Emtelle Group
Insights into the manufacturing industry and the importance of innovation
Challenges and successes in expanding the business globally
[00:45:08]
Board You Can't Afford: Annabelle Beckwith of Yara Journey's Ltd.
Leadership and Talent Development
Importance of growing talent within the company
Strategies for identifying and nurturing future leaders
Question: At what point does a leader need to step back and delegate?
Keywords: business news, leadership, Tony Rogers, Amatil Group, manufacturing, innovation, tariffs, Workers Rights Bill, data centers, Scotland, electric cars, talent development
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Go Radio Business Show Highlights:
[00:01:18]
Labour Party Conference:
Keir Starmer's announcement of £200 million for Grangemouth.
Analysis of the announcement and its implications.
Discussion on the joint venture between Jim Ratcliffe and PetroChina.
Potential for new businesses and investments in Grangemouth.
[00:04:28]
Quangos and Public Authority Bingo:
Russell Findlay and David Hamilton's comments on quangos.
Discussion on the inefficiency of quangos and the need for better management.
[00:08:08]
Tax Rises and Public Services:
Criticism of recent tax rises and the perceived lack of value for money.
Warren Buffett's shareholder letter and lessons on business leadership.
[00:11:51]
Housing and Homelessness:
Discussion on local authorities' spending on temporary accommodation.
Anas Sarwar's plans for housing and rebuilding the country.
[00:15:24]
Regulations and Red Tape:
The impact of regulations on housing and business development.
[00:16:33]
US Investments and Global Politics:
Discussion on Donald Trump's policies and their impact on global business.
German elections and their potential impact on Europe.
[00:35:08]
Glasgow Chamber of Commerce Update: Stuart Patrick
[00:21:00]
£200 million from the UK government's National Rail Fund for Grangemouth.
Potential investments and projects in Glasgow.
Defence spending and its impact on the Clyde.
Glasgow's debt and potential solutions.
[00:35:30]
Special Guest: Colin Rowley, Executive Chair at Dron & Dickson
Dron & Dickson are specialists in supply, installation, and maintenance of electrical equipment in harsh and hazardous environments. With a team of highly trained sales professionals who are CompEx certified, providing exceptional service and support.
Founded in 1927 by Mr Alan Dron & Robert Dickson originally selling explosives to the mining industry, in 1972 Norman & Alan Jr, sons of Alan Dron, begin selling flameproof lighting, cable and equipment to the distillery and shipbuilding sectors.
[00:56:00]
Board You Can’t Afford
Stephen Halpin, Founder Portfolio XD
PortfolioXD provide flexible and affordable, fractional (part-time), highly experienced senior executives for ambitious SME's and scaling businesses.
Question for Hunter and Haughey
When you were scaling your own businesses, was there ever a time when you knew you needed to bring more experienced, top-level C-suite leadership into your business, but hesitated for those or similar reasons?
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Go Radio Business Show - Season 10, Episode 6
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Economic Growth:
[00:02:37]
Mention of Oxford Economics' report on what Scotland could learn from Singapore's model, including necessary legal and policy changes.
[00:04:04]
Emphasis on releasing entrepreneurial spirit in Scotland, with a focus on improving GDP per capita and overall economic growth.
[00:04:31]
Comparison of Singapore's GDP growth from 1965 ($1,200 per capita) to present ($86,000 per capita), highlighting the dramatic economic transformation.
Public Sector and Economic Policies:
[00:06:12]
Discussion on the need for bold economic policies and the role of the public sector in Scotland. Discussion about current policies and calls for radical changes to improve education, healthcare, and the economy.
[00:07:23]
Mixed messages on economic indicators, including interest rates and wage growth, and their implications for the economy.
Interest Rates and Employment:
[00:08:12]
Predictions on unemployment rates and economic adjustments due to new employer contributions and wage growth. Concerns about potential increases in unemployment rates.
Public Sector Efficiency:
[00:09:27]
Debate on public sector efficiency and the influence of business on government policies. Discussion on the need for transparency and accountability in public sector spending.
James Watt
[00:10:00]
James Watt is fast becoming the UK version of Elon Musk. He’s setup what he’s calling a shadow DOGE in an attempt to mirror the influence of business on government that Musk is bringing to the states. Whilst in no way an official body, Watt is launching a hotline for public sector employees to report inefficiencies and promises to release monthly reports highlighting where savings can be made.
[00:12:27]
Skyrora
Whilst Scotland has produced more than a few rockets, most of them MSPs in the green party, the country will see its first proper rocket launched into orbit later this year. Scottish company Skyrora is constructing a 23m rocket called XL to deliver small satellites to space.
Special Guest: Ryan Clark, Security and Technology in Business:
[00:21:12]
Introduction of Ryan Clark, CEO of Safer Group, who shares his background and journey into the security industry.
[00:21:42]
Ryan Clark discusses his initial entry into the security industry as a temporary job, his promotion within the company, and his eventual decision to start his own business focusing on technology-driven security solutions.
Retail and Construction Security:
[00:25:17]
Discussion on the effectiveness of technology in reducing theft and improving security in construction sites. Ryan explains how technology can provide constant monitoring and transparency, reducing the need for physical security guards.
[00:32:47]
Surge in shoplifting and its impact on business. Ryan mentions the deployment of security systems in retail stores to reduce theft and provide reassurance to the public.
[00:33:40]
Comparison of theft in retail and construction industries, with construction experiencing higher losses due to the value of assets on-site.
Insurance and Security Systems:
[00:35:28]
Potential for insurance companies to recommend security systems to builders. Discussion on the challenges of getting insurance companies to recognise and recommend these systems.
Board You Can’t Afford
Fiona McKee is the founder of The HR Practice a HR Consultancy business based in Hillington. Providing HR services to SME and Entrepreneurial businesses.
Prior to launching The HR Practice Fiona was a Global HR Director for SD Worx a payroll business. Fiona is a Non-Executive Board Member at Kilbryde Hospice, Diversity & Inclusion Ambassador for Institute of Directors and Member of the Scottish Economic Advisory Board.
Questions:
Fiona set the business up to focus specifically on M&A due diligence and post acquisition integration however, at the beginning of 2023 M&A market slowed down significantly.
At the same time an accountant approached Fiona to go into a joint venture providing HR services to SME’s. Fiona decided not to do that but instead go after the work independently.
Keywords:
Electric cars, Business transition,Labour growth policies, Singapore economic model, Oxford Economics report, Entrepreneurial spirit, Scotland GDP, Public sector efficiency, Economic policies, Interest rates, Unemployment predictions, Public sector influence, Security technology, Retail theft, Construction security, Insurance recommendations, Business personal life balance
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
In this episode of the Go Radio Business Show, hosts Sir Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey discuss a range of topics from economic policies to personal success stories.
Special guest Ross Anderson, founder and CEO of Beyond Baseline, shares his incredible journey from a troubled past to becoming a successful entrepreneur.
On the Board You Can't Afford, Scottish chef Craig Grozier has a question and discusses building a unique culinary brand.
[00:00:33]
Economic Discussion
ECB rate cuts and their implications
Comparison of Singapore and Australian economies
Lessons Scotland can learn from these countries
[00:05:00]
Public Services and Taxation
Discussion on public services in the UK
Critique of current tax policies and their impact on growth
[00:10:00]
Airport Developments
Record numbers at Edinburgh and Glasgow airports
New cargo routes at Prestwick Airport
[00:15:00]
Bold Leadership
Analysis of leadership styles of Elon Musk and Donald Trump
The importance of bold decisions in business
[00:20:00] Interview with Ross Anderson
Ross's background and personal struggles
Turning points and mentors that influenced his journey
Founding Beyond Pay and its mission
Insights on mental training and personal development
[00:35:00]
Beyond Baseline
Ross's new venture and its focus on mental and physical wellbeing
Strategies for improving workplace engagement and performance
[00:45:00]
Board You Can't Afford: Craig Grozier
Craig's culinary journey and the founding of Fallachan
Challenges and opportunities in the hospitality industry
Advice on maintaining brand integrity while growing a business
If you were effected by any of the subjects mentioned please contact Know the Score on 0800 587 5879 for free, confidential information and advice, or Drink-line Scotland on 0800 731 4314.
ECB rate cuts, Singapore economy, Australian economy, Public services in the UK, Tax policies, Airport developments, Prestwick Airport cargo routes, Bold leadership, Elon Musk leadership, Donald Trump leadership, Mental training, Personal development, Workplace engagement, Workplace performance, Culinary brand, Scottish cuisine, Hospitality industry
Sunday Feb 09, 2025
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
The Go Radio Business Show - Season 10, Episode 3
In this episode of The Go Radio Business Show, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey discuss various topics related to business and the economy. They highlight the recognition of three Scottish tech companies in The Sunday Times list, debate the role of government in running businesses, and critique the Scottish Government's handling of ScotRail.
They also discuss the economic outlook from Davos, the housing crisis in Scotland, and innovative initiatives like zero-bills homes by Octopus Energy.
Special Guest: Andrew Marshall, Founder Carlowrie Group
Episode Highlights:
Government and Business: [00:00:29]
Debate on the role of government in running businesses.
Critique of the Scottish Government's handling of ScotRail and the financial implications.
Discussion on the importance of government setting the right tone for business growth.
Economic Outlook: [00:04:27]
Insights from Davos and the potential for interest rate cuts.
Discussion on the impact of government policies on business confidence and growth.
Housing Crisis: [00:06:50]
Highlighting the issue of homelessness in Scotland, with 90,000 children deemed homeless.
Call for urgent action to address the housing crisis.
Innovative Initiatives: [00:09:21]
Introduction of zero-bills homes by Octopus Energy in partnership with Homes for Scotland.
Discussion on the potential impact of such initiatives on the housing market and sustainability.
Business Reality TV: [00:14:11]
Announcement of a new business reality TV show, "The House of Unicorns," by James Watt.
Discussion on the concept and potential impact of the show on the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Small Business Survey: [00:19:20]
Encouragement for small businesses to participate in a survey by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) to share their views on the business environment in Scotland.
Visitor Tax: [00:20:09]
Introduction of a visitor tax in Edinburgh and the potential implications for tourism and local businesses.
Special Guest Interview: [00:21:08]
Andrew Marshall shares his entrepreneurial journey, from starting a lifestyle concierge company to founding Carlowrie Group.
Discussion on the importance of combining profit with purpose and the impact of social initiatives.
Board You Can't Afford: [00:41:01]
Craig Neilson, founder of Fayre Play, discusses his business and seeks advice on managing business expansion.
Sir Tom and Lord Haughey provide insights on the importance of building a strong team and retaining talent for business growth.
Keywords:
Go Radio Business Show, Sir Tom Hunter, Lord Willie Haughey, business and economy, Scottish tech companies, The Sunday Times list, government role in business, ScotRail critique, economic outlook Davos, housing crisis Scotland, zero-bills homes, Octopus Energy, innovative initiatives
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Episode Summary:Hunter and Haughey discuss various economic and business topics, including the impact of currency fluctuations, the influence of major business leaders, and the future of work-from-home policies.
They also delve into the latest developments in the UK economy, the role of technology in business growth, and the importance of strategic investments.
Special guest Alistair Cameron, CEO of Scotmas, shares insights on scaling a family business, breaking into new markets, and the challenges of raising investment.
The episode concludes with a discussion on recruitment strategies with David Sutherland Director at Cruinn Consulting.
Notes and Timestamps
[00:01:02]
Discussion on recent political events and their business implications. Mention of tariffs and executive orders.
[00:02:00]
Insights on pre-emptive pardons and political dynamics. Joe Biden and Donald Trump's actions.
[00:03:07]
Discussion on major business leaders and their influence.
Mention of Mark Zuckerberg, Bernard Arnault, Larry Page, Sergey Brin, Warren Buffett, and Jensen Huang.
[00:04:16]
The role of money in politics and business. Influence of wealthy individuals on political decisions.
[00:05:15]
Discussion on the UK economy and investment opportunities. Davos conference and global economic outlook.
[00:06:49]
Predictions on interest rate cuts and unemployment rates. Economic forecasts and their implications.
[00:08:24]
Debate on work-from-home policies. Pros and cons of remote work and its impact on productivity.
[00:10:07]
Discussion on procurement and waste management in public services. Issues with local authorities and care homes.
[00:12:00]
Highlighting successful tech companies in Scotland. Mention of Utopi, Skyrora, and Safer Group.
[00:13:26]
Strategies for supporting tech companies and fostering innovation. Role of Scottish Enterprise and Strathclyde University.
[00:14:28]
Discussion on housing regulations and their impact on growth. Need for sensible government policies.
[00:17:29]
Concerns about regulatory pressures on businesses. Impact of lifting regulations on growth and stability.
[00:18:44]
Introduction of new leadership at the Hydro. Appointment of Dom McKay and future plans for the venue.
[00:20:15]
Special guest:
Alistair Cameron, CEO of Scotmas.
Journey of scaling a family business and breaking into new markets.
[00:32:10]
Challenges of raising investment and scaling up. Insights on the investment process and strategic growth.
[00:40:04]
Board You Can’t Afford Guest:
David Sutherland at Cruinn Consulting.
David discusses recruitment strategies and the importance of finding the right talent for business growth and has a question for Hunter and Haughey.
Sunday Jan 19, 2025
Sunday Jan 19, 2025
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Sir Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey discuss various business topics, including the meteoric rise of reform, the challenges of change in business, and the influence of Elon Musk.
They also welcome Johnny Manning, the founder of Connekt EV, who shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights into the electric vehicle charging industry.
Episode Highlights
[00:01:15]
Elon Musk's Influence
Discussion on Elon Musk's involvement in various industries and his impact on politics and social media.
[00:03:38]
Business and Politics
Sir Tom and Lord Haughey delve into the intersection of business and politics, including Musk's potential interest in UK politics and football.
[00:07:06]
Government and Business
Analysis of government procurement and the potential for business leaders to drive efficiency and cost savings.
[00:13:25]
Economic Outlook
Discussion on the current economic climate, interest rates, and government borrowing.
[00:20:05]
Scottish National Investment Bank
Announcement of a £20 million investment in a subsea cable manufacturer in Ayrshire.
Special Guest: Johnny Manning, Founder of Connekt
Johnny is a pioneering force in the electric vehicle charging industry. As Founder and Managing Director of Connekt, he's driving the company's mission to become the UK's premier Charge Point Operator and Installer.
With his innovative vision and strategic leadership, Johnny is at the forefront of shaping a sustainable future for transportation.
Board You Can't Afford Guest: Donna Kerr, Founder DMK Finance
Donna is qualified as a Commercial Banker with extensive credit/industry knowledge & experience. DMK Finance are specialist property and business finance experts who have aided clients obtain finance from £100k to £50m loans and to date.
Access to finance is often critical in the growth journey of any business.
Donna's Question:
During both your own entrepreneurial paths, did you find yourselves fully leveraging your businesses or taking bold financial risks to fuel growth?
Follow and Connect with the show :
- Subscribe: Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
- Watch the show on YouTube: Subscribe to the Go Radio Business Show (launching this week).
- Feedback: We value your feedback. Share your thoughts on this episode and what you'd like to hear in the future. Email GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk
- Engage: Join the conversation on social media @ThisIsGoRadio or Follow Go Radio on LinkedIn. Follow the @thisisgoradio on social media for updates and additional content.
Sunday Dec 08, 2024
Sunday Dec 08, 2024
Scottish Budget
Hosts: Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey
Board You Can't Afford Guest: Scott Munn (12th generation funeral director)
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Sir Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey discuss various business topics, including the recent budget, the state of the NHS, and the challenges faced by car manufacturers.
On the Board You Can't Afford, Scott Munn, a 12th generation funeral director, has a question and chats about his experiences in the family business and the funeral industry.
Key Topics Covered:
Budget Discussion:
Analysis of the Scottish budget and its impact on small businesses.
Discussion on business relief and the hospitality sector.
Concerns about the allocation of funds to the NHS and public services.
Critique of the SNP government's handling of economic growth and public services.
NHS and Public Services:
Examination of the NHS budget and the need for systemic changes.
Discussion on the inefficiencies in public services and the need for better management.
Business Growth and Economic Policies:
Importance of growing the economy to fund public services.
Discussion on tax policies and their impact on businesses and individuals.
The need for big ideas and quality leadership in the Scottish government.
Elon Musk's Compensation:
Discussion on Elon Musk's $56 billion pay award and the legal challenges surrounding it.
Debate on the role of shareholders and judges in executive compensation.
Political Donations:
Discussion on the influence of wealthy individuals in politics.
Debate on whether political donations should be allowed.
Car Manufacturing Industry:
Challenges faced by car manufacturers in transitioning to electric vehicles.
Discussion on the impact of government policies on the automotive industry.
Housing Market:
Concerns about the drop in mortgage approvals and the long-term implications for homeowners.
Board You Can't Afford with Scott Munn:
Scott's background and experience in the funeral industry.
The history of his family business, which started in 1811.
Transition from a family-owned business to being part of a larger company.
Scott's role and responsibilities as a funeral director and operations manager.
Insights into the funeral industry and the importance of attention to detail.
Subscribe to the podcast for more insightful discussions on business and economics.
Follow and Connect with the show :
- Subscribe: Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Watch the show on YouTube: Subscribe to the Go Radio Business Show (launching this week).
- Feedback: We value your feedback. Share your thoughts on this episode and what you'd like to hear in the future. Email GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk
- Engage: Join the conversation on social media @ThisIsGoRadio or Follow Go Radio on LinkedIn. Follow the @thisisgoradio on social media for updates and additional content.
#BusinessPodcast #ScottishEconomy #NHS #PublicServices #FuneralIndustry #ElonMusk #PoliticalDonations #CarManufacturing #HousingMarket #EconomicGrowth