Blethered

Amy and Kirsten co-own Scottish influencer management company Aquarius Creative, working with brands and social media influencers, and have just seen the release of their own TV Series, The Agency: Unfiltered on BBC Scotland. Amy and Kirsten talk about the inception and evolution of Aquarius...Kirsten reflects on juggling motherhood and business…And we discuss their new series and the experience of creating structured reality TV.And as always, there's plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tosh works on Adult TV shows while running two other successful businesses in Scotland, as well as other content creation, online. We talk about how Tosh ended up in the adult entertainment industry, and some of the misconceptions around the business itself...We reflect on her journey and how she worked to gain complete control and autonomy in a very unpredictable industry...And we chat about therapy, and how it can benefit you even when you maybe don’t realise it’s taking place.And as always, there's plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01Apex Meal Prep InstagramTosh's Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

M’s book 'Strip - The Diary of a Hustler' tells the story of her life and about the realities of being a stripper in London’s high-end clubs.You’ll hear about her move to England at just 18 and without being able to speak English… M explains how she ended up becoming a hostess before being cast for various reality TV shows, including Love Island in the UK… And we discuss why she started to work in adult clubs, her popularity on TikTok and aspirations for her book and career.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01M's Tik TokM's YouTube Buy The Book Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Big Light co-founders Fiona and Janice talk to me about their early days working at STV and on numerous programmes across TV and radio…We discuss the inception of The Big Light and how they aim to change the face of podcasting in Scotland…And you’ll hear about a house party with Cyndi Lauper in Glasgow, and accidental phone calls from Billy Connolly.And as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm joined by Senior Debt Adviser Tommy Gallacher, from Don't Fret About Debt, and we discuss the social stigma around debt and the stresses that come with carrying around the weight of that on your own.Tommy explains the solutions available to people struggling with debt, and how you can take free, simple steps to stop paying more than you can afford and relieve pressure from creditors.We also discuss the reasons people fall into debt in the first place, including high interest payday loan companies and ‘buy now pay later’ schemes from online clothing brands. Debt can affect people from all walks of life, but it’s rarely spoken about due to the element of shame associated with it. We unpack all that, and more.For free, impartial debt advice, tailored to your specific needs, get in touch with Tommy or visit https://www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/, but before you do, listen to this episode and make up your own mind.Contact Tommy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tommygallacherMore Info: https://www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Capital FM DJ Meg recently moved from Glasgow to London, and we speak about the step up in her career and how she’s adjusted to being part of one of the biggest networks in UK radio… Meg talks about the loss of her beloved dad, Michael, and how she channelled that emotion and energy into her podcast, McHugh Corner, which tackles hard-hitting subjects head-on… And we chat about London Life and bumping into Will Ferrell in the office. As you do… www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aran has vast experience in both traditional and cosmetic dentistry, and a wealth of knowledge at his disposal. With the sharp rise in medical tourism to places like Turkey, there has also been a sharp rise in horror stories and instances of malpractice. We talk ‘Turkey Teeth’, and about the ever-growing trend of travelling to places like Antalya for the five star experience…We reflect on the Foreign Office information of the twenty two British citizens who have died while over in Turkey for cosmetic treatment… And I find out more about how Aran helps people feel great about themselves, through carefully delivered treatment at his practices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Prestwick and Newcastle.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aestheticsbyaran/?hl=enwww.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Both Martin and Gordon have been on Blethered a few times before, but this is the first time we’ve all been in the studio together, and it was a great laugh from start to finish. The lads have a brilliant new podcast called Restless Natives, in association with Global Radio, and I find out how the idea came about, how they became pals in the first place, and their grand plans for a music festival in Martin’s hometown of Greenock, in aid of the absolutely fantastic Ardgowan Hospice.This is an episode of laughs, stories and chat, interspersed with some poignant reflection on life, hangovers becoming more severe, and the greatest names in Scottish culture, including Billy Connolly and Paolo Nutini. And as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tommy is a highly respected industry expert, and was recently on the panel of BBC’s ‘Debate Night’ programme, giving his input alongside national politicians. With Christmas here and millions of people relying more heavily on credit, we reflect on the past year and the various predictions Tommy made at the start of the year with regards to the cost of living…Tommy dismantles misconceptions about debt and the belief that you’ll be blacklisted for life if you put a foot wrong…And there’s some great advice and guidance on free, practical steps to get on top of debt and how to put yourself in the best position.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

George Bowie is the undisputed King of breakfast radio in Scotland, and has transcended generations, decades and even genres. From keeping you company in the car on the way to school, to providing the tunes during pre-drinks on a Saturday, he’s been a perpetual presence and one that will remain for a long time to come.We chat about George’s first rudimentary DJ lessons as a teenager in his dad’s club, while the DJ nipped off for a drink…George reflects on his start at Radio Clyde in somewhat understated circumstances, plus his very brief departure to a rival radio station in Scotland…And we chat about the popularity of the GBX, winning over George Michael, Ibiza madness at The Highlander and so much more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Itison CEO Oli Norman and Social Bite founder Josh Littlejohn are serial entrepreneurs and have partnered on the brilliant £5 Christmas voucher, to help the homeless.Oli tells me the story of how he uncovered a TV Scandal about Prince Edward, that led to HIM breaking the story via Piers Morgan and The Daily Mirror… Josh and Oli talk about how their partnership began, the positive impact it has on those who benefit from it, and how it eventually led to them hanging about with George Clooney and Leonardo DiCaprio in Edinburgh...And we talk about what it’s like to work at Itison, dodgy flats in Falkirk at 3am, and the best place in Glasgow to get macaroni and cheese. And as always, there’s plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01Buy a homeless person a Christmas gift or dinner for just £5 on www.itison.com/donate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In between being the tour manager for The Proclaimers, to hanging about with his pal Stevie Nicks. of Fleetwood Mac, at her home in Malibu, Craig McLean has led a whirlwind life and career.We talk about starting out as a gig reviewer in Scotland before moving down to London to work at the iconic ‘The Face’ Magazine...We take a look at his freelance work as a top journalist, which led to him living in Phil Collins’ pocket while writing his biography… And Craig tells me about flying on Jay Z’s private jet, a messy night out with Irvine Welsh and stealing sugar from 5 star hotels. And as always, there's plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at St Luke's in Glasgow, Arbroath manager Campbell was on-stage, reflecting on his long-ranging career in the Scottish game.We talk about ’s love for football and why he sees an extensive future for his managerial career… shares his thoughts on a dismissiveness and derision towards older managers in the game… And he recounts an incident which saw an unhappy Dunfermline manager Bert Paton clashing with football journalist Hugh Keevins in the tunnel at Ibrox.And as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fil is part of the Specialist Crime Division of Police Scotland, focusing on Rape, Human Trafficking & prostitution, with decades of experience across the board.Fil talks about human trafficking and forced prostitution in Scotland, how it’s happening across the country and the steps Police Scotland take to stop it at its root… There’s some tales of policing on the streets of Glasgow, including a machete-swinging individual on one side, and an irate Glaswegian woman on the other… And we chat about Police Scotland’s Don’t Be That Guy ad campaign. You can find more information on the campaign at www.that-guy.co.uk. Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gordon is responsible for the music PR of James Bay, Tom Walker, Lewis Capaldi, Luke La Volpe, Joesef, Dylan John Thomas, Bow Anderson, Tamzene and many, many more. Drawing on decades of experience, Gordon explains just how music PR works, and about the many cogs in the machine of big musicians. There are stories about Lemmy from Motorhead’s answer machine, Ian Brown from the Stone Roses in the supermarket, and Victoria Beckham in Glasgow. You’ll also hear about Gordon’s experience of being in Sri Lanka at the time of the Boxing Day tsunami in 2004, and the charity efforts that led to him introducing Paul Weller on stage for a fundraiser. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m joined by someone who listened to my first interview with Senior Debt Adviser, Tommy Gallacher.In February 2021, Tommy and I discussed the social stigma around debt, and the stresses that come with carrying that weight.Tommy explained the solutions available, and steps to stop you paying more than you can afford, each month. We also discussed the reasons people fall into debt in the first place, including payday loans and schemes like Klarna.That conversation struck a chord with so many people who have since followed Tommy’s advice and taken back control of their situation. One of those is today’s guest. Circumstances dictated that although he had a well-paying job, he was JUST about keeping his head above water financially, each month. After getting in touch to find out the steps and protections available to him, the weight of the world is off his shoulders and he’s firmly back in control. https://twitter.com/tommygallacherwww.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 2 of Blethered Live at SWG3 in Glasgow, with former MI6 Spy Aimen Dean.Aimen tells a never-before-told story about his haunting interaction with the lead-hijacker of the September 11th attacks in New York City...We hear about Aimen's decision to join MI6 as an undercover spy, and the extensive debriefing process in Scotland...Aimen discusses his progression into mainstream media such as Newsnight and the Conflicted podcast, and how it came about...And Aimen reflects on the issue of returning jihadists, and the controversial case of Shamima Begum.And as always, there's loads more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 1 of Blethered Live at SWG3 in Glasgow, with former MI6 Spy Aimen Dean.Aimen talks about his early life in Saudi Arabia and how religious clerics shaped his young mindset...His decision to go and fight in Bosnia at 16 years old, in defence of Bosnian Muslims, and the horrors that he saw...And about when his path first crossed with Osama bin Laden.And as always, there's plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Filmmaker Jono McLeod has worked in a variety of roles both in front of, and behind the camera, for some of the biggest networks in Britain.His most recent project is a spectacular documentary called My Old School.My Old School reveals the truth behind one of the most incredible stories of the past 30 years, in which a 32 year old man tricked his way into a school in the suburbs of Glasgow, posing as a 16 year old pupil.Featuring interviews with his old classmates and teachers, it’s a hilarious, thought provoking, engaging, unique and immensely entertaining docu-film, and it’s in cinemas now.We discuss the intricacies of the story, and Jono’s personal memories of what happened…Jono talks about his own school experience as a teenager trying to remain under the radar, and how that influenced his telling of the story…And we talk about Jono’s career in general, plus his award winning short film 'Being Stavros'.And as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Blethered Live at SWG3 GlasgowIn Conversation With Former MI6 Spy Aimen DeanTue 30 AugustTickets: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/blethered-live-tickets/artist/5388843 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tickets for Blethered Live at SWG3 with Aimen Dean - Tue 30 August:: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/blethered-live-tickets/artist/5388843Returning listeners will be well aware of Aimen from my two previous chats with him, on the subjects of his life and career. For those who aren’t, here’s a wee bit of background.Often described as The West’s most significant and valued spy of the 21st century, Aimen worked undercover with MI6, deep within Al Qaeda, providing a constant stream of invaluable information to the British security services. Something that has irrefutably saved thousands of lives. On joining MI6, Aimen’s initial debriefs took place in safe houses all over Scotland, sparking an intense love affair with the country. A nation he calls his spiritual home.After moving to Scotland in 2019, Aimen enrolled his young daughter with one of the country’s top private girls’ schools in Edinburgh. He thought his family were set for life, in the land he chose to call home.But now, just two and a half years later, the family is set to leave Scotland completely, as things have gone drastically wrong. Aimen explains the series of events that have led to this decision to leave the country for good…And he gives his reasons for speaking out, particularly for the protection of those who may be in a similar situation in future.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ross Coutts is a man of many talents and one of his multiple roles is in local radio. We talk about his early days in hospital radio and how he seeks to give a platform to up and coming Scottish musicians.You’ll even hear about an 11 year old Lewis Capaldi coming in and making an instant impression.We chat about the highly regarded Gig in The Goil music festival, one that Ross played a fundamental role in bringing to life, with impressive headliners, such as Gerry Cinnamon & The Snuts…And Ross gives some fascinating insight into the fabric of the West Lothian music scene, a relatively small place that seems to be a conveyor belt of the very best that Scotland has to offer.And as always, there’s plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we discuss Adverse Childhood Experiences - also known as ACEs - and how they can shape the rest of your life without you ever realising…Holly talks about her brother and how losing his grandfather resulted in a catalogue of difficult experiences for him the family…And we speak about the cycle of offending and prison, and how a different approach would help remove people from that chain.And as always, there’s plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26 year old Zoe recently received the news that she has ATM - also known as ‘the cancer gene’.Zoe has made the difficult decision to have a double mastectomy, which is the medical term for the surgical removal of both .We talk about how a litany of cancer diagnoses in Zoe’s family has shaped her understanding and perception of the illness…Zoe explains her decision, the process of post-surgery reconstruction and the implications that may come her way…And we discuss how to check your body for changes, and the need to see a doctor immediately, if you notice any. It may be embarrassing, but it could save your life.And as always, there's plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01Zoe's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atmprevivor_of_cancer/Charity support linkshttps://www.macmillan.org.uk/https://brcachat.com/https://breastcancernow.org/https://www.maggies.org/https://coppafeel.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael grew up in Glasgow, with a passion for filmmaking from around 12 years old, which saw him study at The Royal Conservatoire, in Glasgow. Now a BAFTA winning and double BAFTA-nominated director, he’s worked with people like Richard Branson and F1 driver Lewis Hamilton, and with prestigious brands such as Johnnie Walker, Clinique and Nespresso.We talk about Michael’s creative inspiration and what drives his commercial work and his award-winning short films…Michael explains the dynamics of working in childrens' television and with people like Justin Bieber…And we hear about the famous faces who behaved the worst on set. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gillian recently launched a private member’s Bill to implement buffer zones outside hospitals and clinics across Scotland, to protect women from harassment from anti-abortion protestors, as they seek to access health services. Gillian and I discuss the reasons for this proposal, and the legislative process required to establish it as law in Scotland…We talk about the US Supreme Court overturning Roe v Wade and how to prevent going in a similar direction here in Scotland…And Gillian talks about her experience as a young, female MSP and what it’s like behind closed doors in the Scottish Parliament…And as always, there's plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dennis Locorriere has been the voice of Dr Hook for over 50 years, achieving number 1’s in 42 countries and countless gold and platinum records.We talk about Dennis’ early days in New Jersey and the formation of Dr Hook, and how Sylvia’s Mother put them on the map… plus the true story of the REAL Sylvia and her mother…We discuss Dr Hook’s stratospheric success and what’s kept their music in people’s hearts for over five decades…And there are incredible tales about Shel Silverstein, Billy Connolly, Elvis Costello and more, over an illustrious and phenomenal life and career, that’s still going strong.And as always, there’s plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Saoirse recently travelled to Istanbul in Turkey for breast augmentation surgery, but things didn’t go entirely to plan, resulting in a traumatic chain of events that saw her nearly lose a breast.We talk about booking the surgery and travel on a whim, with little prior research…Saoirse explains the surgery and aftercare process, including a litany of mistakes by the clinicians…And we discuss the aftermath when she got back to Glasgow and had to go to hospital for emergency diagnosis and surgery.And as always, there’s plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded in a cafe in the heart of Istanbul, Steve talks about starting out as a war-zone photo-journalist, before becoming a security adviser…You’ll hear Steve talk about negotiating with ISIS for western hostages…And he explains the realities of war and all that accompanies it…And as always there more plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Radio Producer James talks about how a severe gambling addiction lead to losing enormous amounts of money, in secret.James explains the stresses and pressures in detail, and how the disease impacted and infected every inch of his life. We talk about how his problem rapidly spiralled, the debt issues incurred as a result, and how suicide became the most viable option in his eyes.It sounds horrendous, but don’t worry… we reach a bright light at the end of the tunnel. With the help of Gamblers Anonymous, James fought back and took control, turning things around. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about Laura’s early life as Bishopbriggs’ answer to Shirley Temple before joining STV and eventually becoming the resident entertainment reporter...Laura opens up about how she felt after her shock cancer diagnosis in 2019...And we gossip about the famous faces she’s interviewed over the years.And as always, there’s plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about Tam’s early days in media, including his then hugely popular BBC Scotland TV show ‘Offside’ which ran for 9 years and 134 episodes...We discuss Off The Ball, the show he’s presented alongside Stuart Cosgrove for 27 years on BBC Radio Scotland, And Tam puts me straight about the difference between a food critic and a restaurant reviewer, detailing his experience as the latter.And as always, there’s plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amy and her business partner Kirsten Cameron co-own Aquarius Creative, a talent agency that specialises in social media management.We talk about the formation of Aquarius and how it was built from an idea formed on a stationary plane on an airport runway…We dissect some of the misconceptions around the evolutionary and relatively new concept of influencer marketing and its rise to sociocultural prominence...And Amy charts her learning process throughout her career, from impressing Michelle More with her creative ingenuity as a 17 year old, to employing eight people only two years after the company’s incorporation.And as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss the reality of poverty in Scotland - it’s not 1920’s back-court slums, it’s choosing between heating or eating. Neil explains Jags For Good, an independent Partick Thistle fans’ group that assists those in the local community and further afield...And we talk about Neil being a celebrity in China, and also the worst English teacher they’ve ever had.PlusMr Bean stealing comedian James Acaster’s girlfriend…And whether footballers deserve the money that they earn. (Spoiler: They do).And as always, plenty more.JagsForGood on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JagsForGoodwww.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We read out some embarrassing stories sent in by listeners, before chatting about how Mark ended up writing and creating comedy with his brother Paul, with shows like Pity Party on BBC Scotland, live performances and their numerous viral videos.We also talk languages, stand up comedy and who we find funny!And as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First Released August 2020Aimen Dean was a member of Al Qaeda before he defected to join MI6, where he continued to operate within Al Qaeda as an undercover spy.In this episode, we discuss Shamima Begum and her appeal to be able to return to the UK, I ask Aimen if he thinks deradicalisation programs work, and I ask him some listeners questions.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ross’ mum Angie has Alzheimer’s, a condition that affects memory, thinking and behaviour.We talk about Alzheimer’s and how Ross and his family have had to adjust to care for Angie…We discuss the importance of humour, and how it helps with even the darkest of situations and landscapes…And I find out about Ross’ charity fundraising. He’s raised upwards of £60,000 and counting, climbing mountains and crossing the country in the process.And as always, plenty more.Ross' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rossmcnamee/www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded in London in 2019, Toby tells me about his unconventional route into one of Britain’s biggest radio stations and what it’s like to work there… We compare notes on our best wind-ups and practical jokes...And we talk about navigating the minefield of social media.And as always, plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jake was on Blethered in June 2020, and told me all about making documentaries in North Korea, getting up close and personal with ISIS executioners, and spending time with the far-right English Defence League.This time, we talk about Jake’s podcast company Message Heard and their new projects, including the phenomenal ‘Finding Natasha’...We reflect on the success of Message Heard’s ‘Conflicted’ podcast, hosted by Thomas Small and former Blethered guest Aimen Dean…We have a laugh about the weird people who want to get the green M&M pregnant...And as always, plenty more. www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re talking about grief. How do you deal with it? Can you deal with it? Does it ever get easier?Chelsey sadly lost her mum in February 2020, and we talk about her journey up until now, and she shares her personal experience. It’s a different experience for everyone but there are also some shared realities. Whether you’re going through a similar situation, or someone close to you is, this might provide some comfort, support or insight into something that’s rarely spoken about or discussed.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm joined by Scottish singer-songwriter David Sneddon!We talk about winning Fame Academy and being catapulted to overnight fame throughout the UK, and going on to support Elton John on tour…The downsides of fame and why he very quickly turned his back on the concept of celebrity, And you’ll hear David reflect on his prolific songwriting career so far, writing hits for Lewis Capaldi, Hurts, Lana Del Rey, The Courteeners, Rag n Bone Man, Nicole Sherzinger, Olly Murs, and the list goes on and on and on…And as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm joined by Adam and Sam from Hyyts. We talk about:How they started making music after being lifelong palsSupporting Boy George at The Hydro in GlasgowHearing their music on BBC Radio 1Their Partick Thistle tune that went viralUpcoming gigs and festivals+ As Always, loads morewww.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Debt expert Tommy is back for another conversation and we reflect on the January blues and the stress that can follow the Christmas period...We discuss Buy Now Pay Later schemes such as Klarna and ClearPay and how people can fall into that trap...And we talk about how people have gone from sleepless nights and miserable days, to enjoying life again after taking even the smallest steps to address their money and debt worries.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BAFTA award winner Hannah Currie talks to me about her excellent new documentary 'Talent', on BBC Scotland, how she overcame personal challenges to go on and create the work that she has done, and we chat about her standout films so far.As always, there's plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first ever Blethered Live show at St Luke's on Friday 26th November, with Darren McGarvey and Karen Dunbar.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first ever Blethered Live show at St Luke's on Friday 26th November, with Darren McGarvey and Karen Dunbar.Part 2 with both Karen Dunbar & Darren out next week!www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Scottish footballers Steven Robb and Marc Corcoran are the founders of clothing brand 'Bee Inspired'.We talk:The reality and challenges of life after footballOrigins in BangkokStarting the brand with just a few t-shirts for saleLionel Messi & Luis Suarez wearing Bee InspiredTokyo, Barcelona, New York & MoreBusiness achievements, lessons learned & an eye on the future+ MoreBee Inspired Instagramwww.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bash talks about fleeing war in the Democratic Republic of Congo to end up in Glasgow with his family, and the difficult early days of integration into Scottish life, and:Encountering bullies and racism at schoolSurviving through being funnyFrom making videos on Facebook, to fronting national brandsDoing it for familyAnd as always, there’s plenty more.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Filmmaker and Director Stewart Kyasimire talks to me about moving to Glasgow from Kenya at a young age, his BAFTA nominated documentary 'Black & Scottish', encountering racism, and the steely guidance of his Mum.And as always, loads more.Contact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award winning singer-songwriter Bow Anderson tells me about how a freak accident which nearly resulted in her losing her leg, set her off on her already illustrious career path.We talk Elton John and Cyndi Lauper being fans, performing on German TV as David Guetta looked on, and what's next for one of Scotland's fastest rising music stars.www.dontfretaboutdebt.net/blethered/Tickets for Blethered LIVE at St Luke's with Darren 'Loki' McGarvey & Karen Dunbar: gigss.co/bletheredContact: [email protected]: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.