Air Date: February 1st, 2026

Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter

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Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey dive straight into the pressing challenges facing Scotland’s business community—from soaring rates and inflation to job losses and policy gridlock.

The conversation is fast, fiery, and full of real‑world examples that shine a light on the growing frustrations across the entrepreneurial landscape.

But it’s not all doom and gloom—there are sparks of optimism too, with investment wins and innovative growth projects making their way into the spotlight.

Episode Highlights

Rates, Taxation & Real‑World Impact

Tom and Willie blast the “archaic” non‑domestic rates system, calling it unfit for purpose and a direct cause of job losses.

A heartbreaking example of a small business forced to lay off two staff—including an apprentice—shows the human cost of policy misalignment.

Scotland’s Economic Mood: The Gloomiest in 30 Years

New surveys reveal a sharp decline in business optimism—the worst in three decades.

A surge in unemployment and stalled growth leaves the hosts urging government and civil servants to wake up and act.

Housing Emergency… with a 5‑Year Wait?

The hosts dissect Scotland’s response to the housing crisis, baffled at why action announced in 2024 won’t take effect until 2029.

Investment & Good News Amid the Turbulence

Scottish Capital’s £25M investment into flexible “lock‑up” business spaces gets a big thumbs‑up as a boost for SMEs.

Edinburgh‑based Epidarex Capital raises $145M for life‑science ventures, proving Scotland still has strong innovation pull.

Big Geopolitics: China, the US & the UK’s Place in the Middle

A detour into global politics and economic partnerships, from security‑flagged Chinese investments to the potential of renewed European cooperation.

Nuclear Talent—But Not at Home

Scotland’s anti‑nuclear stance is questioned as Scottish engineers head south to work on multi‑billion‑pound projects like Hinkley Point.

AI, Job Losses & the Future Workforce

Morgan Stanley research reveals an 8% net job loss from AI in the UK—but also an 11% productivity boost for adopters.

Ending on a Positive Note

With the Commonwealth Games promising £150M in economic opportunity, the hosts look to “Positive Patrick” from the Chamber of Commerce for a brighter horizon.

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