Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast
by Beyond Borders Scotland
Welcome to the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast where thought-provoking conversations meet the crossroads of culture, conflict, and global issues. Co-hosted by Mark Muller Stuart, Oscar Guardiola-Rivera, and Aminatta Forna, this podcast stands as a unique platform for exploring the world’s most pressing challenges through the lens of international dialogue and cultural exchange.Mark Muller Stuart, an experienced international lawyer and conflict resolver, Oscar Guardiola-Rivera, a Colombian writer and global affairs educator, and Aminatta Forna, a celebrated writer and director at the Lannan Centre for Poetics and Social Practice, bring their diverse backgrounds and insights to the forefront, offering listeners a rich tapestry of perspectives from the Beyond Borders International Festival and beyond.Listeners can expect to be part of an ongoing world dialogue, with episodes featuring enlightening talks on climate change, peace, and literature, alongside interviews by prominent journal
Episodes
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A Declaration of Independence – Standing Up to Trump | S 3 Ep 4
We join veteran USA watcher and broadcaster, Jim Naughtie, in conversation with Republican lawyer, Gregg Nunziata, former Chief Nominations Counsel to the Senate Judicial Appointments Committee, CEO of the Rule of Law Society, and host of the Checks & Balances Podcast, as they explore whether the...
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On the Brink: Where Next for America | S 3 Ep 3
In this week’s episode we join the BBC’s In Our Time host, Misha Glenny, talking to historian and Atlantic correspondent, Timothy Ryback, about his latest best-selling book, 53 Days: How Hitler Dismantled a Democracy, concerning the collapse of the Weimar Republic, and Tim Phillips, conflict...
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Britain’s Historic Responsibility Towards Palestine by William Dalrymple | S 3 Ep 2
This week's podcast features a blistering lecture delivered by celebrated historian, William Dalrymple, about Britain’s historic responsibility towards Palestine and its people. The lecture explores the impact of the Balfour Declaration of 1917 and Britain’s conduct in Palestine during the...
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News Review with Kirsty Lang, Jeremy Corbyn, Lyse Doucet and Dawa Murray | S 3 Ep 1
After another crazy year in politics cultural broadcaster Kirsty Lang conducts a light-hearted news review of the issues making the headlines - and which are likely to do so in the coming months, from the UK under new British prime minister Andy Burnham onto global issues like AI, Trump, Iran and...
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Humanitarian Challenge - The View From Scotland | S 2 Ep 16
Scotland’s leading international charities are working together to support some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Join to hear highlights from the Scottish Government’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund (HEF) annual report. Featuring: Noor al Naser Frances Guy Val Brown Nadeem Baqir Audio...
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Women for the World. An Audience with Four Peacemakers | S 2 Ep 15
In this episode, listen to a discussion about the pivotal role women play in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and mediation from a Beyond Borders Scotland (BBS) panel at the Edinburgh International Book Festival 2025. Speaking are selected Alumnae from the Women in Conflict 1325 Fellowship, a...
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The Soft Power of Islam: Guide to Peacemaking Using Islamic Principles | S 2 Ep 14
Former cellmate of Nelson Mandela and PM of the Western Cape, Ebrahim Rassol talks with his co-authors, Dr Houda Abadi and Mark Muller Stuart KC, about their new book, A Guide to Islamic Principles of Peace-Making, and why they are needed more than ever as we confront ever greater cycles of...
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The Burning Question: Conflict and Climate | S 2 Ep 13
In this week’s podcast veteran peacemaker, Monica McWilliams, author of Stand Up, Speak Out, joins former UN Assistant Secretary-General, Andrew Gilmour, author of The Burning Question: Climate and Conflict - why Does it Matter? and Dr Roxani Krystalli from St Andrews University at the Edinburgh...
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An International Life: Mark Muller Stuart talks to Veteran UN Peacemaker Staffan de Mistura | S2 Ep 12
In this week’s podcast Mark Muller Stuart KC talks to veteran United Nations diplomat Staffan de Mistura at the Edinburgh International Book Festiva who reflects on his remarkable 50-year career in international diplomacy and conflict mediation for the UN in places like Sudan, Bosnia…
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State of the World | S 2 Ep 11
Join veteran BBC broadcaster, Jim Naughtie, as he talks to Steve Crawshaw, former UK head of Human Rights Watch and author of Prosecuting the Powerful, alongside Derek Goldman, director of the Centre for Global Performance and Dialogue at Georgetown University, and the Noor Al-Naser, programme...
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Shadows of War, Windows of Peace | S 2 Ep 10
Join Ambassador Nirupama Rao and Ambassador Riffat Masood alongside senior journalists Maya Mirchandani and Nasim Zehra as they discuss Indo-Pak relations after the recent escalation, the role of women in the peace process, and the space for peace in the changing global environment. Featuring:...
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The Humanitarians: Nicola Sturgeon in Conversation with Post Code Lottery CEO, Sigrid Van Aken, and Médecins Sans Frontières Supremo, Chris Lockyear | S 2 Ep 9
Listen as former First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon talks to Sigrid Van Aken, CEO the Postcode Lottery Group, about it's remarkable rise to become the world’s third biggest philanthropic funder of good causes and Chris Lockyear, the Médecins Sans Frontières Supremo, as he reveals the…
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Frankly Speaking – Nicola Sturgeon in Conversation with Allan Little | S 2 Ep 8
Listen as Former First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, lifts the lid on her remarkable life as one of Scotland’s leading politicians in the 21st century as she recounts her journey from working-class Ayrshire to Bute House, in her candid memoir, Frankly. Featuring: Nicola Sturgeon Allan Little Beyond...
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Vulture – Phoebe Greenwood in Conversation with Clare Conville about her Novel on the War Reporting Industry | S 2 Ep 7
Listen to legendary literary agent, Clare Conville, as she talks to novelist and journalist, Phoebe Greenwood, about her recent novel, Vulture, a fast pace, darkly funny heart wrenching satire that tears through the guts of the war-news industry. Featuring: Phoebe Greenwood Clare Conville Beyond...
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Diamond Geezer: An Audience with Field Marshal Richards, featuring Hew Strachan | S 2 Ep 6
Join Field Marshall Lord Richards as he talks to military historian Hew Strahan his book ‘Retreat from Strategy’, the recent UK Defence Review, the conflict in Ukraine, and success of British and western military interventions in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya and Syria, since his own victorious one…
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The British Obsession with Partition with Sam Dalrymple, William Dalrymple, and Moin Mir | S 2 Ep 5
Introducing Sam Dalrymple as he discusses his stellar new work, Shattered Lands: Five Partitions and the Making of Modern Asia, and new approaches to historical scholarship with Empire Podcast co-host, William Dalrymple, and Moin Mir, asking the questions. Featuring: Sam Dalrymple William…
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An Independent Life with Jeremy Corbyn MP, Oscar Guardiola Rivera, Ella Newton, and Duncan Peppe | S 2 Ep 4
Join Jeremy Corbyn MP as he talks about his extraordinary life as the most independent MP in the House of Commons and his ground breaking initiative to co-create a new party for the Left called Your Party. Oscar Guardiola Rivera explores why he continues to capture the imagination of young people...
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How to Build Peace in a Troubled World with Beth Lapsley, Lord Jack McConnell, and Martin Griffiths | S 2 Ep 3
Peebles High School student Beth Lapsley cross examines Former First Minister of Scotland, Lord Jack McConnell, and Martin Griffiths, former UN Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, about their latest ventures to help save the world from further…
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John Buchan: A Man For Our Time? with Professor Murray Pittock and Geoffrey Baskerville | S 2 Ep 2
Catherine Maxwell Stuart introduces Professor Murray Pittock who paints a fascinating picture of John Buchan, author of The Thirty-Nine Steps, and a Scot who wasn’t just a literary legend, but a man who was well ahead of his time on issues that still resonate today from Scottish nationalism to…
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Palestine Matters with Husam Zomlot, Humza Yousaf, Afif Safieh, and William Dalrymple | S 2 Ep 1
Listen to former First Minister, Humza Yousaf, in a dialogue about the future of Gaza and Palestine with current Palestine Ambassador, Husam Zomlot, who joins from the region, along with veteran Palestinian diplomat, Afif Safieh, and William Dalrymple, who explains why Britain bears a particular...
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A Diplomatic Life: A Youth-Led Conversation with Staffan de Mistura and Stephanie Williams | Ep 44
In this unique episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast, we bring you a compelling conversation with two former UN envoys, Staffan de Mistura and Stephanie Williams. Hosted by Duncan Peppe, a student from Peebles High School, this episode marks the first ever youth led podcast recorded at…
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Scots in the Empire with Sir Geoff Palmer, William Dalrymple and Alex Renton | Ep 43
In this compelling episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast, we revisit an urgent and unflinching discussion recorded live at the Beyond Borders International Festival. Professor Sir Geoff Palmer is joined by historian William Dalrymple and journalist Alex Renton for a wide-ranging...
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The Golden Road with William Dalrymple | Ep 42
Step into the heart of ancient civilisations with celebrated historian and bestselling author William Dalrymple CBE, as he explores the remarkable legacy of India in his latest book, The Golden Road. In this thought-provoking lecture recorded live for Beyond Borders Scotland, Dalrymple charts the...
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Finding Justice: From Srebrenica to Colombia | Ep 41
Join us on this poignant episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland podcast as we explore stories of survival, justice, and reconciliation in the aftermath of some of the most devastating conflicts of recent times. Hosted by David Hamilton, trustee of the Scottish educational charity Beyond…
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Miriam Margolyes & Jim Naughtie: Uncut and Uncensored | Ep 40
Join veteran BBC broadcaster Jim Naughtie as he converses with the ever-entertaining Miriam Margolyes in an unfiltered dialogue about her illustrious career and vibrant personal anecdotes. This episode offers listeners a unique opportunity to hear Miriam’s candid reflections and humorous tales…
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Year in the Life of Humza Yousaf with Allan Little | Ep 39
In this compelling episode, Allan Little, an esteemed journalist, engages in a profound discussion with Humza Yousaf, Scotland's former First Minister, about his pivotal year in office. This conversation provides a unique personal insight into the challenges and triumphs faced by Humza Yousaf,...
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A Citizen From Nowhere with Kirsty Lang and Aminatta Forna OBE | Ep 38
In this compelling episode, BBC correspondent Kirsty Lang engages with Aminatta Forna OBE in a profound discussion about identity and belonging in today's global landscape. They delve into what shapes us as "global souls" - is it a choice, or are we moulded by forces such as mass migration…
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The British Country House and its Secrets with Geoffrey Baskerville, Ben Cowell OBE and Wessley Edmonds | Ep 37
In this episode, introduced by Catherine Maxwell Stuart, join Ben Cowell OBE, Director-General of the Historic Houses Association, as he discusses his book, "The British Country House Revival." Historians Geoffrey Baskerville and Wessley Edmonds also explore captivating stories, including a...
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The Dream Shall Never Die: An Interview with Alex Salmond | 36
In the light of the Scottish Parliament’s recent tribute to the remarkable Scottish politician that was Alex Salmond, after his untimely death on 12th October, this episode takes us back to a 2015 interview Salmond conducted with veteran BBC journalist, Jim Naughtie, in the wake of the vote on...
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What Next for Britain and America with Steve Richards and Tim Phillips | Ep 35
In this episode of the podcast, join seasoned political commentators Steve Richards and Tim Phillips as they dive into the ramifications of the recent general election in Britain and the upcoming US Presidential elections. With their expert analysis, they explore how these political events will...
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Martin Griffiths CBE lecture at the Signet Library - Scottish Global Dialogues | Ep 34
On 22 August 2024, Martin Griffiths CBE, the former UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (2021-24) delivered the Second Keynote Address of Scottish Global Dialogues at the Signet Library in the heart of enlightenment Edinburgh during the height of…
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Divided Societies with Allan Little, Elif Shafak and Sarah Helm | Ep 33
This episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast delves into the complexities of divided societies in places like Turkey and Gaza. Join Allan Little as he talks to Elif Shafak about her compelling book How to Stay Sane in the Age of Division with journalist Sarah Helm. Recorded live from the idyllic...
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Is there such a thing as American exceptionalism? | Ep 32
This episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast is a compelling reflection on US politics and the role it plays in the world. Gain insight into thoughts on American politics through the minds of this varied panel of guests, all offering their own unique knowledge on the subject. Listen to Jim Naughtie...
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Blair to Brexit Britain and Beyond with Alastair Campbell and Jonathan Powell | Ep 31
This episode of the Beyond Borders Podcast offers a rare and compelling look into British politics through the eyes of two of its key players from the Blair administration, Alastair Campbell and Jonathan Powell. Recorded live from the idyllic grounds of Traquair House during the Beyond Borders...
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Pretty Young Rebel with Flora Fraser and Jim Naughtie | Ep 30
Join Jim Naughtie as he talks to Flora Fraser about the remarkable exploits of Flora MacDonald in both the Jacobite and American rebellions, as they discuss her new book Pretty Young Rebel: The Life of Flora MacDonald. Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland: https://www.beyondbordersscotland.com/...
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The Long Knives with Irvine Welsh and Oscar Guardiola-Rivera | Ep 29
In this exciting episode, we are joined by the legendary author Irvine Welsh, best known for his groundbreaking novel "Trainspotting." Irvine sits down with host Oscar Guardiola-Rivera to discuss his latest novel, "The Long Knives." The conversation delves into Irvine's creative process, his...
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Do I make myself clear? Sir Harry Evans and Jim Naughtie | Ep 28
Join the godfather of investigative journalism, Sir Harry Evans, as he talks to veteran BBC broadcaster Jim Naughtie about his life, career and some of his most ground-breaking investigative work at the Sunday Times where he uncovered the truth about the thalidomide scandal, the breadth of Kim...
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Women in the World with Tina Brown and Nicola Sturgeon | Ep 27
Join us for an enlightening episode as Tina Brown, the legendary journalist and editor sits down with Former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon. This candid discussion about Tina’s dynamic life in media was recorded as part of the Beyond Borders Festival and offers a unique glimpse into…
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War Stories: Ukraine 2024. Mark Muller Stuart KC speaks with Col. Pavlo Khazan and Petro Koshukov | Ep 26
In this deeply moving episode of "War Stories: Ukraine 2024," Mark Muller Stuart KC hosts a gripping discussion with Colonel Pavlo Khazan and Petro Koshukov, who share their personal journeys from civilians to soldiers in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Recorded in the heart of Ukraine, this...
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Who Gets Believed? With Oscar Guardiola-Rivera and Dina Nayeri | Ep 24
Explore the pressing issues of identity, belonging, and the complexities of migration with philosopher and author Oscar Guardiola-Rivera and celebrated writer Dina Nayeri. This episode centres around Nayeri's thought-provoking works and her latest book, "Who Gets Believed? When the Truth Isn't...
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Why Germans Do It Better with Angus Robertson MSP, Annette Dittert and John Kampfner | Ep 23
In this fascinating episode, join Angus Robertson MSP, a well-known Germanophile, as he delves into Germany's pivotal role in Europe and the cultural reinvention of Berlin. Featuring insights from author John Kampfner and esteemed German broadcaster Annette Dittert, this discussion highlights the...
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Politics and Peacemaking: Where Next for Global Britain with Steve Richards and Jonathan Powell | Ep 22
In this compelling episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast, join seasoned journalist Steve Richards as he engages in a deep dive with Jonathan Powell, a key figure in international peacemaking and former chief negotiator for Northern Ireland. Together, they explore Powell's influential…
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Understanding Mary Queen of Scots with Rosemary Goring and Clare Hunter | Ep 21
This week's podcast features an enlightening talk between Geoffrey Baskerville, former BBC Scotland’s arts correspondent, and authors Rosemary Goring and Clare Hunter. They delve into the life and legacy of Mary Queen of Scots, one of history's most famous queens, who visited Traquair with Lord...
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Palestine and the Power of Narrative: In Conversation with Raja Shehadeh, Sarah Helm, and Derek Goldman | Ep 20
In this episode, Sarah Helm, who is working on a new book on Gaza, leads an enlightening discussion on Raja Shehadeh’s own book, delving into the intricate narratives of Palestine. Joined by Derek Goldman from Georgetown University, the conversation explores the profound impact narratives have on...
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From the Basque to the Big Country: Where Now for Democratic Politics in Europe? | Ep 19
In this thought-provoking episode, Allan Little delves into the future of democratic politics in Europe, exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by demands for constitutional change. With an esteemed panel that includes Urko Aiartza Azurtza, Merryn Somerset Webb, Gerry Hassan, and...
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Razia Iqbal in conversation with Christina Lamb | Ep 18
In this episode of the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast, Christina Lamb and Razia Iqbal discuss two compelling issues. First, they explore the homelessness crisis through Lamb's book, "The Prince Rupert Hotel for the Homeless," offering a narrative of compassion amid a pandemic. Then, they shift...
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Stories from the Frontline with Nicola Sturgeon | Ep 17
In this special episode, commemorating International Women's Day on March 8th, we delve into the critical role of women in peacebuilding and the impact of UN Resolution 1325. Introduced by Sofiia Shevchuk, a current fellow of the Beyond Borders Scotland 1325 Women in Conflict Fellowship…
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Scotland: A Global History with Murray Pittock and WIlliam Dalrymple | Ep 16
In the light of recent debates about Scotland’s voice and role in international affairs, join acclaimed historian, broadcaster, and author of The Anarchy, William Dalrymple, as he talks to Professor Murray Pittock, the Bradley Professor of Literature at the University of Glasgow, about Scotland’s...
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Books, Brexit & Bullsh*t (Youth in Politics) with Alastair Campbell | Ep 15
Following the release of Alastair Campbell’s acclaimed book, ‘But What Can I Do?’, he visited the Beyond Borders Festival to be interviewed by two young journalists from Peebles High School and Edinburgh Napier University. Watch the behind the scenes video here:...
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Ukraine: One Year On with Steve Richards, Lindsey Hilsum, Lucy Ash and Professor Marc Weller | Ep 14
In the lead-up to the second anniversary of the war, join Steve Richards as he listens to Channel 4’s Lindsey Hilsum and BBC Lucy Ash’s dispatches from the frontline of the Ukrainian war, while Professor Marc Weller considers how to resolve a conflict. Find out more: Beyond Borders Scotland:...
About this show
Welcome to the Beyond Borders Scotland Podcast where thought-provoking conversations meet the crossroads of culture, conflict, and global issues. Co-hosted by Mark Muller Stuart, Oscar Guardiola-Rivera, and Aminatta Forna, this podcast stands as a unique platform for exploring the world’s most pressing challenges through the lens of international dialogue and cultural exchange.Mark Muller Stuart, an experienced international lawyer and conflict resolver, Oscar Guardiola-Rivera, a Colombian writer and global affairs educator, and Aminatta Forna, a celebrated writer and director at the Lannan Centre for Poetics and Social Practice, bring their diverse backgrounds and insights to the forefront, offering listeners a rich tapestry of perspectives from the Beyond Borders International Festival and beyond.Listeners can expect to be part of an ongoing world dialogue, with episodes featuring enlightening talks on climate change, peace, and literature, alongside interviews by prominent journal
Hosted by
Beyond Borders Scotland