Episodes

  • Housing Crisis, Donaldson Family Business Legacy & Beauty Brand Growth

    Housing Crisis, Donaldson Family Business Legacy & Beauty Brand Growth
    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== https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-porter-079848111?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app 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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    56 mins
  • From Oil Shocks to AI Surges: Scotland’s Business Future Unpacked

    From Oil Shocks to AI Surges: Scotland’s Business Future Unpacked
    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 X: https://x.com/HIEScotland 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...
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    53 mins
  • Innovation Nation: AI, Energy, EVs & the Entrepreneurs Driving Change

    Innovation Nation: AI, Energy, EVs & the Entrepreneurs Driving Change
    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: www.hughstirling.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-muslek-17571888/ Rebecca Hansen MD, WYRE: www.trywyre.com 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
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    56 mins
  • Inside Scotland’s Growth Crisis: Debt, Defence, and the AI Opportunity

    Inside Scotland’s Growth Crisis: Debt, Defence, and the AI Opportunity
    Jun 8 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

    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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    54 mins
  • Housing, Inflation, Electric Cars and the £20M Tech Disruptor

    Housing, Inflation, Electric Cars and the £20M Tech Disruptor
    Jun 1 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 ...
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    56 mins
  • Scotland’s Future, Business Leadership, and the GAP Success Blueprint

    Scotland’s Future, Business Leadership, and the GAP Success Blueprint
    May 25 2025

    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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    55 mins
  • Scotland’s Future: Lessons from Singapore

    Scotland’s Future: Lessons from Singapore
    May 18 2025

    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. https://www.thehunterfoundation.co.uk/

    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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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Global Trade Deals, Gates’ Billions, Buffett’s Wisdom, + the £6K Startup That Became a £50M Adventure

    Global Trade Deals, Gates’ Billions, Buffett’s Wisdom, + the £6K Startup That Became a £50M Adventure
    May 11 2025

    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.

    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

    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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    55 mins