Money Made Human Podcast

Episode #38 of the Money Made Human podcast features Karen Scott, Chief Executive Officer of Scotmid Co-operative and the first woman to hold the role in the organisation’s history. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Karen about her childhood and school years, her journey from checkout operator to CEO, and the strong work ethic and values that have shaped her career. Karen also reflects on what becoming CEO has meant to her and what the role has taught her about herself. The conversation explores Scotmid’s importance to local communities, the value of mutual organisations, and the challenges posed by rising grocery costs. Karen also discusses Scotmid’s response to the pandemic and its wider social impact, including its partnership with St Andrew’s First Aid, support for Hey Girls’ “buy one, give one” initiative, funding for school breakfast clubs through its Community Grant scheme and the Member Choice Awards. Some highlights from the episode: Karen’s childhood, school years and journey from checkout operator to CEO The work ethic and values that shape her leadership What becoming Scotmid’s first female CEO has meant to her. Scotmid’s role within local communities The continued importance of mutual organisations The cost-of-living crisis and rising grocery prices Scotmid’s community initiatives and response to the pandemic Karen’s hopes for Scotmid and ambitions within her role The best advice she has received and what makes her happy outside work An inspiring conversation about Karen’s remarkable career journey, the power of community-focused leadership and her ambitions for Scotmid’s future.

Episode 37 of the Money Made Human podcast features Stephen Noakes, Director of Retail at Nationwide Building Society. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Stephen about his early life and school memories, his journey to Cambridge University and how his career led him into financial services. Stephen also shares the personal values that guide him and what it means to lead Nationwide’s retail division. The conversation explores Nationwide’s purpose of banking for the good of society, its Fairer Futures programme and why mutual organisations such as building societies and credit unions remain so important. Stephen also discusses his hopes for Nationwide, his greatest source of inspiration and the best career advice he has received. Some highlights from the episode: • Stephen’s early life, Cambridge experience and move into financial services • The values that guide him and his role at Nationwide • Nationwide’s purpose, Fairer Futures programme and fairer approach to banking • Why building societies and credit unions remain important • His inspirations, career advice and personal goals An insightful conversation about Stephen’s journey, the importance of mutual organisations and his ambitions for the future.

Episode 34 of the Money Made Human podcast features Clare Haughey, MSP for Rutherglen and Cambuslang and Convener of the Finance and Public Administration Committee. From working as a mental health nurse to representing her community in the Scottish Parliament, Clare’s career has remained focused on supporting others. Host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Clare about her upbringing, the values behind her work and the experiences that led her from healthcare into politics. Clare reflects on the changing mental health landscape, the moments that stood out during her nursing career and the pressures that come with being an elected representative. She also shares how she approaches criticism, what matters most to her and her ambitions for the future. Key topics in this episode include: Clare’s upbringing and the values that shaped her Her experiences as a mental health nurse Changes in mental health and community care Moving from healthcare into politics The realities of serving as an MSP Responding to criticism and scrutiny Her local and national hopes for the future We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 35 of the Money Made Human podcast features Ricky McAulay, UK Operations Director at Royal Mail. Ricky began his career as a postal cadet in Glasgow in 1986 before becoming a postman in the city’s southside. Nearly four decades later, he now leads Royal Mail’s UK operations. Host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Ricky about his childhood, the values that have guided him and his journey through Royal Mail. He also reflects on the organisation’s vital role during the pandemic, helping loved ones and communities stay connected. Key topics include: Ricky’s journey from postman to UK Operations Director The biggest changes he has witnessed at Royal Mail Royal Mail’s role as an employer The influence of the gig economy Why credit unions are important for employees and wider society His hopes and desires for Royal Mail Rebuilding pride in the organisation The advice he would give to his younger self We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 34 of the Money Made Human podcast welcomes one of Scotland’s most distinguished public figures, Lord George Robertson, former Secretary General of NATO, UK Defence Secretary and MP for Hamilton and Hamilton South. Lord Robertson joins host Gayle Lloyd to reflect on the experiences and values that shaped his extraordinary career in public service. From his early life on the Isle of Islay and involvement in campaigning as a young man to representing Hamilton in Parliament, he shares the journey that ultimately took him to the highest levels of British and international politics. He discusses living in Dunblane at the time of the school tragedy and the work he undertook in its aftermath, before reflecting on his appointment as UK Defence Secretary and the responsibility that came with the role. Lord Robertson also shares the remarkable story of his journey to NATO and recalls where he was when the 9/11 attacks took place. Drawing on decades of experience, he explores the qualities required to lead through a crisis, make difficult decisions and carry the weight of public responsibility. The conversation also considers the changes he has witnessed throughout his career, what continues to motivate him, the legacy he hopes to leave and why credit unions remain so important to communities. Key topics include: The early experiences and values that shaped Lord Robertson His journey from campaigning to a career in politics Representing Hamilton and Hamilton South Serving as UK Defence Secretary Becoming Secretary General of NATO Responsibility, resilience and leadership during a crisis His reflections on motivation, public service and legacy The importance of credit unions to local communities

Episode 33 of the Money Made Human podcast features Conor McAuley, a content creator living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Conor about growing up with Duchenne, becoming a wheelchair user and coming to terms with what his condition has meant for his life. Conor reflects on the barriers and obstacles he has faced, his appreciation for his family and friends, and his personal growth. The conversation also explores Conor’s social media journey, the message behind his content and his experience sharing his story at the European Parliament. He discusses his goals and mission, what others can do to help and his hopes for the future. Key topics in this episode include: Growing up with Duchenne muscular dystrophy The barriers Conor has faced, including in education His social media journey and the message behind his content Sharing his experience at the European Parliament His goals, mission and hopes for the future What others can do to help We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 32 of the Money Made Human podcast features Thomas Hawkins, Editor of The Sunday Post. Thomas has enjoyed a 24-year career in journalism, from sports journalism to digital journalism and everything in between. Today, he is Editor of The Sunday Post, one of Scotland's most iconic newspapers. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Thomas about his career, the experiences that shaped his values, and the role journalism can play in making a positive difference. Key topics in this episode include: Growing up in Belfast during the Troubles and their lasting impact The values and entrepreneurial spirit inspired by his parents His journey from the University of Glasgow to Editor of The Sunday Post The importance of highlighting issues such as the prevention of violence against women and girls The importance and challenges of pursuing the truth in modern journalism Thomas' hopes for the future of The Sunday Post and its ongoing projects We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 31 of the Money Made Human podcast features Marion Scott, Chief Reporter at The Sunday Post. Marion is an award-winning investigative journalist whose work has helped uncover major stories across Scotland. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to exposing injustice and giving a voice to those who need to be heard. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Marion about her career, what drives her as a journalist, and the role investigative reporting can play in creating positive change. Key topics in this episode include: Marion's first front-page story at just 18 months old Her journey into journalism and what inspired her to become an investigative journalist Her determination to expose injustice and give victims a voice Some of the most memorable stories from her career The Sunday Post's front-page investigation into the dangers women face through domestic abuse Marion's hopes for journalism and what she still hopes to achieve We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 30 of the Money Made Human podcast features Jock Brown, Scottish football commentator and former General Manager of Celtic Football Club. Jock has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning law, broadcasting and Scottish football. After studying law at Cambridge, he built a successful legal career while also becoming one of Scotland’s best-known football commentators, before later serving as General Manager of Celtic. Host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Jock about his childhood and upbringing, his journey into football commentary, and his behind-the-scenes experiences at Celtic. Jock also reflects on dealing with press attention and remembers his late brother, former Scotland manager Craig Brown. Key topics include: Jock’s childhood, upbringing and education His career in law and journey into broadcasting Life as a football commentator His time as General Manager of Celtic His involvement with Children’s University Scotland Remembering his brother, Craig We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 29 of the Money Made Human podcast features Kevin Duffy, Scotland Partnership Manager at the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS). From starting your pension early to spotting the warning signs of a scam, Kevin shares practical guidance to help people feel more confident about their money and plan for the future. Host Gayle Lloyd chats with Kevin about his career journey, the support available to those who need it, and how working together can make financial guidance more accessible. They also discuss why it’s time to break the taboo and get more comfortable talking about money. Key topics include: Kevin’s career journey and role at MaPS Why financial education matters Pension guidance for young people starting their careers How to spot and avoid pension scams The power of partnerships Breaking the taboo around money conversations We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 28 of the Money Made Human podcast features Jane Ross, one of Scotland's most capped footballers, FA Cup winner, and Youth & Women's Development Officer at PFA Scotland. Over a remarkable 19-year playing career, Jane earned 151 caps for Scotland and represented clubs including Glasgow City, Manchester City, West Ham United, Manchester United, Rangers, and Vittsjö GIK in Sweden. She helped Glasgow City win six consecutive league titles and scored the goal that secured Scotland's place at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Jane about the journey that took her from the Isle of Bute to the top level of women's football. She reflects on the support of her parents, the challenges and opportunities she encountered throughout her career, and how those experiences now shape her work supporting young players and the women's game through PFA Scotland. Key topics in this episode include: Becoming a professional footballer and adapting to life in Sweden and England The continued growth of the women's game and opportunities for future generations Equality in football and the pressures created by social media Supporting youth and women's players through PFA Scotland The importance of financial planning for professional footballers Jane's hopes for the future of the game We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 27 of the Money Made Human podcast features Helen Ainsworth, Senior Manager for Credit Unions at the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA). Helen leads the team responsible for credit union policy and supervision at the PRA, playing an important role in supporting the safety, resilience, and long-term success of the UK credit union sector. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Helen about her career with the Bank of England and the PRA, the values that shaped her growing up, and the experiences that influenced her understanding of money from an early age. She shares why she is passionate about helping the credit union movement thrive and discusses the importance of openness, collaboration, and trust between regulators and the sector. Key topics in this episode include: Helen's career journey with the Bank of England and the PRA The role of the PRA in the credit union sector Why credit unions matter to communities across the UK The importance of open dialogue and strong relationships between regulators and credit unions Operational resilience and preparing for future challenges Helen's hopes for the future of the credit union movement As always, thank you for listening. We hope you enjoy the conversation!

Episode 26 of the Money Made Human podcast features Ian Lavery, MP for Blyth and Ashington. Ian has dedicated much of his career to public service, representing communities through both the trade union movement and Parliament. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Ian about the experiences that have shaped his values, his journey into politics, and the realities of serving as an elected representative. The conversation also explores the lasting impact of the miners' strikes, the importance of trade unions and credit unions in supporting communities, and Ian's hopes for the future. Key topics in this episode include: How Ian's upbringing, family, and experiences of poverty shaped his values The impact of the miners' strikes on his family and wider society His role as President of the National Union of Mineworkers Why trade unions and credit unions remain important to local communities His journey into politics and role as an MP The realities of serving as an elected representative We hope you enjoy listening!

Episode 25 of the Money Made Human podcast features Elaine Rae, Chief Executive Officer of NHS Credit Union. Elaine has dedicated her career to improving people's lives, from her early work in mental health nursing, social work, and palliative care to leading one of Scotland's largest credit unions. Having spent five years as Chair of the Board before becoming Chief Executive Officer, she is also one of the founding members of NHS Credit Union and has played a key role in its growth over the past decade. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Elaine about her career journey, the experiences that shaped her values, and the influence of growing up in poverty, her mother's resilience, and her family's trade union roots. She also reflects on the importance of compassionate care, including helping people achieve what she describes as a "good death", and how these experiences continue to inform her leadership today. The conversation explores the role of credit unions during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the importance of empowering women in leadership, and NHS Credit Union's Safe Harbour programme, which supports members experiencing economic abuse to regain control of their finances. Elaine also shares her work with the Coalition of Credit Unions, her ambitions for the future of NHS Credit Union, and her hopes for the years ahead. Key topics in this episode include: Elaine's career journey and leadership at NHS Credit Union Growing up in poverty and the influence of her mother and trade union roots Her background in mental health nursing, social work, and palliative care Female leadership and empowering women in the workplace NHS Credit Union's Safe Harbour programme and supporting survivors of economic abuse The role of credit unions during the cost-of-living crisis Join us for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about compassion, leadership, financial wellbeing, and the power of credit unions to change lives.

Episode 24 of the Money Made Human podcast features Debbie Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of OurCoop. A passionate advocate for the co-operative movement, Debbie has spent her career championing the values of cooperation, community, and member ownership. As CEO of OurCoop, she leads one of the UK's largest independent co-operative societies, serving communities across multiple sectors while remaining focused on delivering value for members and customers. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Debbie about her career journey, the people who have shaped her values, and the influence of a family deeply connected to the co-operative movement. She reflects on the positive impact of her upbringing, particularly the role her mother played in shaping her outlook on life and leadership. The conversation explores the power of cooperation to create meaningful change, both locally and globally, and why understanding members and customers remains at the heart of the co-operative model. Debbie also shares her thoughts on the future of the movement, the importance of creating opportunity, and why her personal philosophy is to "make every day count". Key topics in this episode include: Debbie's career journey and leadership at OurCoop The influence of family and the co-operative movement throughout her life The opportunities created through cooperation at both a local and global level Prosperity, growth, and what success should look like for communities Debbie's hopes for the future of the co-operative movement The importance of family and the support of her "home team" Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, cooperation, community, and the values that can help create a better future for everyone.

Episode 23 of the Money Made Human podcast features Alan Rough MBE, Scottish former professional footballer and football broadcaster. Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s most recognisable goalkeepers, Alan enjoyed an outstanding playing career that saw him represent his country on the international stage and become a firm favourite with football supporters across Scotland. Best known for his time at Partick Thistle, he remains one of the club’s most celebrated players and a respected voice within the game today. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Alan about his journey into football, the influence of his parents, and the experiences that shaped a career spanning some of the most memorable moments in Scottish football. He reflects on representing Scotland at three World Cups, including his memories of the 1978 tournament in Argentina, and shares his thoughts on how the game has evolved over the decades. Key topics in this episode include: Alan’s journey into football and goalkeeping The influence of his parents and early life experiences How football has changed over the years The importance of saving and planning for the future as a professional footballer His current role with PLZ Soccer and continued involvement in the game The importance of staying active and maintaining good health Join us for an entertaining and insightful conversation with one of Scottish football’s most recognisable figures, reflecting on a remarkable career and the lessons learned along the way.

In episode 22 of the Money Made Human podcast, we’re joined by Hugh Gaffney, former MP, author of Auchengeich, and founding member of 1st Class Credit Union. Host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Hugh about a life shaped by service, community, and a deep commitment to helping others. From growing up in a family of eight siblings to his career with Royal Mail, Hugh reflects on the experiences that led him into trade union activism and later into politics. The conversation also explores Hugh’s powerful work in preserving the history of the Auchengeich mining disaster, where 47 men lost their lives in 1959, and the lasting impact it had on families and communities. He also shares personal reflections on loss, including the passing of his wife Anne, and the values that continue to guide him. Key topics in this episode include: Hugh’s upbringing in a large family and early influences His career with Royal Mail and work with the Communication Workers Union His journey from councillor to MP The importance of credit unions and payroll deduction schemes The story of the Auchengeich mining disaster and his book Personal reflections on grief, family, and motivation to help others We hope you enjoy listening to Hughie’s story as much as we did!

Episode 21 of the Money Made Human podcast features Paul Sweeney, candidate in the Scottish Parliamentary election and former MSP. Before entering politics, Paul worked in the shipbuilding industry, an experience that continues to shape his views on industry, communities, and public service. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Paul about his five years in the Scottish Parliament, his upbringing in Glasgow, and the influence of his parents’ values, trade union roots, and strong sense of service to others. The conversation explores Paul’s passion for shipbuilding and Scotland’s industrial heritage, the importance of investing in communities and skilled industries, and the role credit unions can play in supporting people across Scotland. Paul also reflects on his support for the Coalition of Credit Unions during discussions around the withdrawal of the Family Protection Plan, as well as the impact recent events in Glasgow have had on the city and its communities. Key topics in this episode include: Paul’s journey from shipbuilding into politics His five years serving in the Scottish Parliament The influence of his upbringing, family values, and trade union roots The importance of maintaining Scotland’s industrial heritage Recent events in Glasgow and their impact on local communities The role and importance of credit unions within society Join us for an insightful conversation about industry, community, public service, and the values that shape leadership.

Dermot O’Neill is the Chief Executive of the Scottish League of Credit Unions (SLCU), a role he has held for the past 15 years. The SLCU supports 26 of Scotland’s remaining 72 credit unions, helping them to become and remain Compliant, Sustainable and Cooperative. Dermot’s credit union journey began in 2002 when he was appointed General Manager of Taxi Trade Credit Union, where he spent eight years. He then moved into the community credit union sector as Development Manager at Ayrshire Credit Union, before taking up his current leadership role at the SLCU. A passionate advocate for the credit union movement, Dermot is a champion of community finance and the people-focused values that underpin it. He believes strongly in the power of cooperative finance to strengthen communities and improve lives. Outside of credit union life, Dermot prioritises family time, enjoys outdoor adventures and plays football; to the best of his (self-confessed) very average ability. Key topics in this episode include: What the Scottish League of Credit Unions is and how it supports its members The six key pillars of the SLCU, including guidance, education, networking and representation Why it's important for credit unions to have this type of connection and support Dermot’s personal journey and leadership within the credit union movement How credit unions have adapted and evolved in recent years Dermot’s hopes for the future of the SLCU and the wider credit union sector Join us for an engaging conversation with someone at the heart of Scotland’s credit union movement. This episode was recorded in October 2025.

Episode 19 of the Money Made Human podcast features Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby, Co-Founder of Fans Supporting Foodbanks and Hillsborough Survivor. Ian is a tireless advocate for social justice and co-founded the Right to Food UK Commission in November 2025, an independent body developing a roadmap for legislation aimed at ending hunger in the UK by 2035. He is also the co-founder of Fans Supporting Foodbanks, a charity mobilising football fans to tackle food insecurity in their communities. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Ian about his upbringing in Liverpool, the influence of football and trade unions on his values, and the impact of deindustrialisation on his hometown. They also discuss significant moments such as the Hillsborough Disaster and the resulting Hillsborough Law, and explore the role of credit unions and community organisations in creating positive societal impact. Key topics in this episode include: Ian’s upbringing in Liverpool and early influences The role of football and trade unions in shaping his values The Right to Food UK Commission and its mission to end hunger by 2035 Fans Supporting Foodbanks and the charity’s work in communities The Hillsborough Disaster and Hillsborough Law The societal impact of credit unions Join us for a thoughtful conversation on social justice, community action, and the power of football and cooperative institutions to make a difference.