Blethered

The Lindsay Clancy case in America has been one of the most scrutinised, analysed and talked-about cases in a long time. Clancy is a Massachusetts mother who killed her three young children in 2023, in a case centred on whether she was criminally responsible or suffering from postpartum psychosis. Her trial very recently ended with a hung jury, meaning that a decision could not be reached. One of the by-products of the entire case has been the realisation that mothers, and fathers, are often let down when it comes to matters of pre- and postnatal depression. I started to realise how little I know about the entire subject, and how little I’ve ever heard about it in general. Then, in a bit of a serendipitous discovery, I saw Mhairi talking about her own experience with pre- and postnatal depression. I was really struck by the coherence, candour, sincerity and even humour of her recollections of an utterly awful experience. Now, I know Mhairi well, and I know how she expresses herself, so the podcaster in me kicked in, and we had a chat about having the conversation. I’m really glad that we did. I found it revealing, enlightening, educational and, in the end, uplifting. She went through hell, and I think probably experienced what a huge amount of people do, without ever speaking about it out loud. Mhairi isn’t someone seeking the spotlight or trying to draw out a traumatic experience for personal gain. She’s a young, devoted mother with a lovely wee boy who she lives for. And her insight will contribute, even if it’s only microscopically, to a challenging and misunderstood subject that shouldn’t be ignored or demonised. Try Coachly Fitness for free Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Try Coachly For Free Karen Koren founded the Gilded Balloon on Edinburgh's Cowgate in 1986. Her daughter Katy joined the business in 2014 and now runs it alongside her. In this episode, Karen and Katy join me to talk about building the venue from a single 150-seat theatre into one of the defining names of the Edinburgh Fringe, the comedians they helped launch, the fire that destroyed their original venue, running the business through the pandemic, and what it's like working together as mother and daughter. Recorded during the 2026 Edinburgh Fringe. Listen to No Funny Business Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Download Coachly on The App Store Filmmaker and Cosmic Cat Films founder Ged Fitzsimmons joins me for a wide-ranging conversation about filmmaking, creativity and finding your way into an industry that can be notoriously difficult to navigate. Ged talks about his unconventional route into film, building Cosmic Cat Films, and becoming an impact producer, using cinema as a vehicle for social change. We discuss his work with Ken Loach, including I, Daniel Blake , and the experiences that shaped his approach to making and distributing films. We also get into the realities of Scotland’s film industry, class, opportunity, rejection, the value of life experience, and what separates work that simply entertains from work that can leave a lasting impact. Later, the conversation turns to one of Ged’s most personal projects: a new documentary about former Celtic player George Connelly . We explore George’s remarkable career, the mystery surrounding his early departure from football, and the anxiety, addiction and mental-health struggles behind a story too often reduced to one of wasted potential. The film aims to celebrate what George achieved while finally exploring the question that has followed him for decades: what happened to George Connelly? ge Ged also explains the crowdfunding campaign helping bring the documentary to cinemas, and his ambition to give George, his family and the supporters a long-overdue testimonial on the big screen. Support The Crowdfunder Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First published in June 2024 Imagine this: You're scrolling through Instagram, TikTok or even Facebook, and suddenly you get a message from someone who seems genuinely interested in you. The conversation quickly turns flirtatious, and before you know it, you've shared personal photos and information. And then, the unthinkable happens. The person on the other end reveals their true intentions, and threaten to send it on to your friends and family unless you pay up, or do something equally distressing. This isn't an urban myth or something that only happens thousands of miles away, this is the reality for many people who fall victim to ‘sextortion’ and blackmail by catfish accounts, and it’s happening where you live. These twisted predators use fake identities to build trust and manipulate their victims, leading to devastating consequences, both emotionally and financially. In this episode I’m joined by Debbie MacPhee whose teenage son was targeted, even without engaging with anyone, and we’re shining a light on the tactics and methods used by these criminals. You’ll hear a number of stories about people who were targeted, with some horrifying outcomes, and steps you can take to ensure that you and your loved ones can stay safe in an online setting that’s becoming increasingly dangerous. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coachly: Your Personal Trainer on the App Store Jodie Marsh joins me at Fripps Farm for a biographical interview spanning severe school bullying, London nightlife, Stringfellows, Essex Wives , Page 3 and the height of Britain’s 2000s tabloid culture. She explains how she negotiated £30,000 from The Sun , why she deliberately kept herself on the front pages, what made Celebrity Big Brother such a brutal experience, and how much of her public feud with Katie Price was genuine. We also discuss grief, depression, competitive bodybuilding and the private life behind the public character. The final part of our conversation focuses on Fripps Farm, the animal sanctuary Jodie founded in Essex, as well as online abuse, disputes surrounding the sanctuary and her plans to expand its work. Jodie Marsh, in her own words. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dennis Locorriere - 1949 / 2026 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. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Twitter: 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 was joined live on stage in Glasgow by Zack Polanski, Leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, Holly Bruce MSP, and comedian Amanda Dwyer. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I sit down wirth Gillian Mackay, as we look to a new era in Scottish politics. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Billy Boyd was one half of Silibil n Brains, the Scottish duo behind one of the most notorious bluffs in music industry history. But according to him, the version you know isn’t quite the truth. Italian Language Exchange Laungh Night Party At Amore, Glasgow! contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is about how justice and humanity can intersect, and what happens when you treat people like they can still be more than the worst thing they’ve ever done. I’m viscerally aware of how serious crimes affect victims - I’ve felt that pain myself, but every conversation needs space for nuance. And in this episode, you’ll hear former Barlinnie prison officer Frank and I have a very detailed one. We discuss his expansive work history and his view of life inside Barlinnie, how modern innovations in rule-breaking make it tough to stop drugs getting in, plus the blackmail methods used against guards… We take a look at the social factors behind crime and why so many end up in a cycle of prison, addiction, and reoffending… And we explore why, in some cases, investing in rehabilitation makes more sense than a never-ending, expensive spiral. And as always, there’s loads more. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Angela Landers is a teacher of transcendental meditation at the TM Centre in Glasgow, recently displaced following the vape-shop fire on Union Street. In this conversation, we explore what transcendental meditation actually is, what it does to the mind and body, and why more people are turning inwards in a world that feels increasingly loud, constant, and overwhelming. We get into the crossover between science and long-standing spiritual practices, how attention and awareness shape our experience, and whether looking inward offers something that modern life doesn’t. I’m not offering a neat solution, because there isn’t one. I’m just asking the right questions. If life feels like too much at times, and you find yourself constantly looking outward for something to settle that, this might shift your perspective. contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com TM Glasgow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Derek McEwan is preparing to take on the Marathon des Sables, a six-day, 250km ultra-marathon across the Sahara, where runners carry their own supplies and face extreme heat and cold. He’s doing it to raise money for the Catherine McEwan Foundation, set up in memory of his mum, who died aged 37 after living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease for 21 years. The charity supports people dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, and the daily realities of IBD. To understand the challenge, I joined Derek in a 35°C heat chamber session with humidity and reduced oxygen. Even over an hour, the strain on breathing, heart rate, and effort levels was clear, offering a glimpse into both the race conditions and the ongoing reality for those living with IBD. contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Catherine McEwan Foundation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ally Begg’s life has taken some extraordinary turns. From growing up in Aberdeen dreaming of playing for Aberdeen FC, to becoming a member of 90s boyband Bad Boys Inc , his journey then moved into the world of football broadcasting. From Manchester United's MUTV and Celtic TV to becoming the face of football across South East Asia, Ally built a global career in sports media. But a serious near-death experience later forced him to reassess everything. This is a story of reinvention, resilience and perspective – in true Blethered style. contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by Stephen Wright and Edward Kelly , partners at KPW Investments , a Glasgow-based firm managing over £500 million in assets on behalf of clients. I’ve always been interested in impressive and inspiring people, and it’s hard not to be impressed by two relatively young professionals who’ve earned the trust and responsibility of managing that level of wealth for individuals, families and businesses. This conversation was also a chance for me to stress-test some of my own beliefs and assumptions about the world of finance . Over the years on the podcast I’ve had many exploratory discussions about debt, personal finance and the financial pressures people face in everyday life, so I was curious to better understand the people working inside the system. What struck me immediately is that Stephen and Edward completely contradict the cliché image people often have of high-end finance. They’re personable, thoughtful and grounded, and clearly care about helping their clients make better long-term decisions with their money. At a time when there’s uncertainty across the board economically, becoming financially literate and learning from experts has never been more important. If you’d like to learn more about their work, you can visit kpwinvestments.co.uk or get in touch with the team at KPW Investments in Glasgow . contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brought to you by Sports Therapy Scotland Born in South Africa and living in Dubai, sports fanatic Tylan left behind a life on the corporate ladder and co-founded Dead Man’s Clique - a brand centred around adrenaline-based activities, combat sports, fitness, tattoos and a thriving social environment. As ‘Head of Danger’ at DMC - he threw himself into the deep end of absolutely everything, and life was going beautifully, until the 22nd of January, 2023, when he was involved in a horrendous motorcycle accident, resulting in very severe paralysis. The last few years have undeniably been incredibly tough for Tylan, but the strong impression I get from him, is that he’s faced them all head on. He’s a really tough, strong looking guy, but there’s real warmth and kindness about him. Maybe most surprisingly, there’s also a wee bit of vulnerability, that he’s happy to show. He’s quite open when he talks about how that day has shaped his life, and even though he’s well within his rights to feel aggrieved and to come across as quite despondent and morose, he’s absolutely anything but. There are a lot of life lessons and his story, and this whole conversation, is quite allegorical. Some of the lessons are really obvious and not particularly enshrouded in any mystique, but it doesn’t make them any less profound. This is a man who was told by surgeons that he had less than zero point zero one chance of ever standing on his own two feet again. Well I watched a video of him walking, just the other day. So that tells me… that we should listen to what the man has to say. Movement Is Privilege Instagram contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael McEwan is a journalist and broadcaster from Glasgow, with a unique perspective on the world. A former Blethered guest, Michael has cerebral palsy, but has never defined himself by that. After some chats back and forth, Michael expressed that he felt he was categorised in a certain way, and lamented what he felt was a lack of opportunity for him in professional terms. I had the idea to hand over the keys to Blethered, and let him showcase just what he can do. He's funny, intelligent, sharp and a capable interviewer/presenter. So here it is! Blethered, with Michael McEwan. And I'm his guest. Enjoy! contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Michael's LinkedIn Profile Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Craig first gained attention by walking from Hampden to Munich for Scotland’s Euros campaign. He’s now taking on a far bigger challenge, a 3,000-mile walk across the US, raising funds for SAMH ahead of the World Cup. We talk about how the idea came about, his affinity with the Germans, and just what he can expect as he undertakes this mammoth challenge. And, as always, loads more. Sports Therapy Scotland Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Published ahead of the Netflix documentary on the Lucy Letby case, available to stream from February 4th. I'm joined by lawyer and registered midwife Jaimie McGready to discuss the trial and conviction of serial killer Lucy Letby. Letby was recently convicted of the murder of six newborn babies, and the attempted murder of seven more, in what was the longest murder trial in British legal history. We reflect on the evidence that led to her conviction and receipt of a full life order, meaning she’ll die behind bars. Jaimie and I also discuss the death penalty, the 'morality' of criminal defence lawyers and where the responsibility lies for hospital management staff's failure to act, after repeated warnings about Letby. And as always, there's plenty more. Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/seanmcdonald01 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seantmcdonald/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Billy Porter's name is synonymous with Glasgow in the 1980s and 90s, where he was a hugely popular comedian in the pubs, clubs and venues of Glasgow and the west of Scotland. Known for his quick thinking, sharp wit and on-the-edge humour, he was a cult favourite, and since his move to Tenerife in 2008, he’s been a must-see for any Scots travelling to the island on holiday. Billy tells me about growing up in Shettleston in a family not blessed with an abundance of wealth, the same as most in that era… He reflects on the impact of realising he was gay, in a harsh and unkind era, when it came to homosexuality… And he speaks very candidly about his challenges with alcoholism, and the years through which the laughter flowed every night, but rarely from him. You’ll know Billy Porter the comedian, but this conversation is Billy Porter the son, the brother, the husband, the friend, the wee guy from Shettleston and the man he eventually came to be. Bily's Instagram Contact: seanmcdonald.podcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roz Foyer is the General Secretary of the Scottish Trades Union Congress and one of the most influential voices in the Scottish labour movement. With decades of experience representing workers across public and private sectors, she is a leading advocate on fair work, pay, equality, and employment rights. In practical terms, she represents the collective voice of hundreds of thousands of workers, meaning her positions can shape national conversations, legislative priorities, and real-life outcomes. During this never-ending period of economic pressure, wage erosion, industrial unrest, and sociopolitical uncertainty in Scotland, Roz articulates worker concerns in language that resonates both with grassroots members and policymakers, making her a credible power broker rather than a purely symbolic advocate. In real-terms: she’s a key figure in Scottish life, and is fiercely on the side of the interests of the working man and woman. You’ll hear us talking about Roz’s formative years in the working world, and how she ended up at the forefront of the trade union movement… We discuss the economic difficulties faced by people in Scottish communities, and how they’re fuelling things like flags being hung from lampposts, and what those flags really represent… And we get into potentially uncomfortable territory. The Daily Mail recently attacked Roz on the basis that she owns some properties. Is it counterproductive and hypocritical for a trade union leader to own more than one home? Or is it completely disingenuous and propagandist output from the usual suspects, that falls apart at the slightest scrutiny? You can decide that one for yourself, I don’t think it’ll take you long. And as always, there’s so much more in there - and a chat I hope you enjoy as much as I did. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.