Scottish Blethers

In the week of Armistice Sunday in which we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of their country, we consider some of the estimated 10,000 war memorials across Scotland. From huge civic monuments to small plaques on railway platforms, each one remembers those mourned by the community they left behind.

In the midst of a global pandemic and facing the challenges of potentially catastrophic climate change, we need to cast the net wide to harness all the scientific talent available. Today STEM subjects (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) make significant effort to recruit more female students, but this hasn't always been the case. Excluded form universities, professional societies and professions dominated by men, women struggled for the right to make their contributions. In this week's episode we look at some of the strong Scottish women who overcame all the obstacles in their path to achieve success in their chosen discipline of science, leaving a legacy for the benefit of all.    

The eyes of the world are on Scotland this week as the world leaders gather in Glasgow for COP26. A work of art can prompt discussion and encourage the viewer to reflect more deeply and so perhaps it's not surprising the environmentally themed works designed to highlight the climate crisis are appearing around the city. From glass salmon to monumental neon works, flags and banners made from ocean plastic to giant polar bear sculptures - we take a look at how artist are making this major event. Should the participants take time away from the conference for their own quite contemplation, they will no doubt be amazed by the wealth of public art the city of Glasgow has to offer - much of it with an environmental theme. 

This week is Halloween and we are joined by Susan to reflect on the origins of many of the traditions associated with this time of year. Satanic panic spread across Europe during the 15th to 17th Century and in Scotland nearly 4,000 individuals, the majority of them women who were accused, tortured, tried and in some cases executed as hysteria took grip. we explore some of the factors that contributed to this environment of suspicion and blame and remember some of the women that suffered at the hands of their accusers - including the King himself. 

This week marks the centenary of one of Scotland's best known poets - George MacKay Brown. A good opportunity to reflect on the rich oral tradition reflected on the quality of poetry this small nation has produced. Moving beyond Scott, Burns and RLS we look at the 20th century contemporaries of George MacKay Brown and the rich legacy they left behind to influence today's makars. Along the way we give an insight into our personal favourites. Episode 57 is certainly full of variety! 

In this week's episode we look at the life of one of the most famous characters in Scottish history. Was she a casualty of the times she lived on or a spoilt, headstrong young woman with poor taste in men. Most likely a bit of both!

In this week's episode we explore this small nation's claims to the title. Records show that the game has been payed in the villages along the East coast since at least the early 15thC. Was it down to trading or cultural links or was it links of a different kind? The soft, sandy soils between the land and the sea where nothing will grow except hardy grasses and gorse. Useless for agriculture but perfect for recreation.

This national treasure is loved by locals and visitors alike making it Scotland’s top attraction in 2019 with over 2 million visitors. In this week’s episode we discuss the roots of the museum and how it has evolved into the award/winning multi-disciplinary collection it is today. From over 12 million items we both select three and explain their significance - to the nation and to us personally.

As the days shorten and the farmers are busy gathering their crops in from the fields, we take a look at what is grown in Scotland and the traditions associated with this special time of year.

In this episode the Blethers reflect on their careers in education and contest this disparaging adage which questions the competence of teachers. A lot of memories, pride and humour across all sectors of the education scene in Scotland. Listen in to this week’s episode. We may be guides now but once a teacher, always a teacher!