In this episode of the Go Radio Business Show, Sir Tom and Lord Haughey discuss various topics related to business, energy, and economic policies.

Key discussions include Scotland's progress towards clean energy, the impact of government policies on businesses, and insights from special guests Lewis Gillies, CEO of Haventus.

Lynne Jhangeer, COO of Linian has a question on the Board You Can't Afford.

The episode also touches on the importance of innovation, energy security, and the role of government in supporting business growth.

00:02:50

Greg Jackson & Octopus Energy: Cheap electricity, Zonzl pricing, energy debate.

00:04:03

Data Centres & Power Costs: UK electricity prices, offshore wind, job creation.

00:05:57

Wind Energy: Clean energy sources, political support, utility providers.

00:08:28

Economic Growth & Tax Policies: Rachel Reeves, national insurance, employment impact.

00:11:00

Business Challenges: Taxation, innovation, job creation, inflation.

00:14:29

Defence Spending: Glasgow, BAE Systems, apprenticeships.

00:15:21

Financial Districts: Glasgow's global financial index, business investments.

00:17:05

US Business Investments: Harlem industries, gaming industry, job creation.

00:18:02

Pharmaceutical Investments: Kelso Pharma, acquisition funds, business growth.

00:18:47

Prestwick Airport: Government intervention, aero engineering jobs.

00:20:55

Introduction: CEO of Haventus, Ardersier Port.

00:21:42

Background: Early life, education, career journey.

00:29:26

Entrepreneurial Ventures: Energy development, raising funds, project management.

00:35:22

Offshore Wind Projects: Ardersier development, floating wind technology, government support.

00:44:33 

Introduction: COO of Linian, business overview.

00:45:29

Product Innovations: Cable containment, earthing products, new cable clip.

00:50:04

Family Business Dynamics: Working with family, business growth.

00:51:41 

Business Advice: Starting a business, key contacts, investment strategies.

Clean Energy, Scotland, Government policies, Economic growth, Taxation, Innovation, Offshore wind, Energy security, Business investments, Prestwick Airport, Defence spending, Financial districts, Pharmaceutical investments, Entrepreneurial ventures, Family business, Product innovations

[00:01:23]

Football Talk: Casual conversation about football, including a humorous anecdote about a Rangers player.

[00:04:16]

Gold Investment: Debate on the value and process of investing in gold, with personal anecdotes and market insights.

[00:04:30]

Government and Business: Critique of government involvement in businesses, specifically shipyards and ferry contracts, and the inefficiencies observed.

[00:09:06]

Political and Economic Issues: Discussion on the financial training needed for Scottish politicians, the inefficiencies in the civil service, and the need for better management and higher pay for politicians to attract talent.

[00:15:08]

Benefits and Employment: Analysis of the high number of people on benefits in Scotland and the UK, the need to encourage employment, and the political implications of benefit cuts.

[00:23:42]

Special Guest: Brie Read

Background: Brie Read, CEO of Snag, shares her journey from living in various countries to starting her business.

Business Growth: Discussion on Snag's growth, product range, and future plans to become a billion-pound business.

Entrepreneurial Insights: Brie emphasises the importance of taking risks, being brave, and the value of learning from experience.

Positive News: Brief mention of positive developments in the north of Scotland related to offshore wind projects.

Karen McFadden, founder of Money Insights, has a question for Hunter and Haughey and discusses financial opportunities for businesses.

Gold Investment debate, Government involvement in business, Shipyards and ferry contracts, Political and economic issues, Financial training for politicians, Civil service inefficiencies, Higher pay for politicians, Benefits and employment analysis,Scottish benefits system, Encouraging employment, Benefit cuts implications, Brie Read, CEO of Snag, Snag tights,Business growth,Entrepreneurial journey, Taking risks in business,Learning from experience, Offshore wind projects,North of Scotland developments, Karen McFadden, Money Insights, Financial opportunities for businesses, Go Radio Business Show, Podcast highlights, Business podcast, Entrepreneurial insights

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

Go Radio Business Show - Season 10, Episode 8

Business News Highlights

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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?

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

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

Go Radio Business Show  - Season 10, Episode 4

Hosts:

Special Guest:

Key Topics Discussed:

Homelessness in Scotland:

[00:00:33] Discussion on the alarming number of homeless children in Scotland (90,000).

Urgent need for government intervention to address the housing crisis.

Economic and Political Commentary:

[00:01:08] Analysis of Donald Trump's unpredictable actions and their impact on global and UK businesses.

[00:02:00] Discussion on tariffs and their potential effects on Scottish companies like Johnnie Walker whisky.

Business Insights:

[00:03:00] Importance of learning from mistakes, inspired by Matthew Syed's book "Black Box Thinking."

The aviation industry's safety due to its approach to learning from errors compared to other sectors like medicine.

Global Business Environment:

[00:06:00] Insights from Singapore's economic model and its potential lessons for Scotland.

[00:07:00] Discussion on the impact of Brexit on the UK economy and potential benefits or drawbacks.

Philanthropy and Leadership:

[00:10:00] Mention of Bill Gates' philanthropic efforts and his new book "The Source Code."

[00:11:00] The importance of having a successor in business leadership, highlighted by Eddie Hawthorne's transition at Arnold Clark.

Scottish Edge Competition:

[00:12:00] Encouragement for early-stage businesses to apply for funding through the Scottish Edge competition.

Success stories of businesses that benefited from the competition.

Special Guest: Julie Grieve

[00:23:05] Julie's entrepreneurial journey from working in various businesses to founding Criton.

[00:25:00] Challenges and successes in the hospitality tech industry.

[00:35:41] The impact of COVID-19 on her business and the subsequent growth in demand for digital guest services.

Support for Small Businesses: 

[00:42:12] Importance of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) survey to influence policy decisions.

Call to action for small business owners to participate in the survey to voice their concerns and needs.

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

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.