Simply Scottish

He’s one of the most significant scientists of the nineteenth century, and his work laid the foundation for modern physics, quantum mechanics, and relativity. Scottish physicist and mathematician James Clerk Maxwell is a pivotal figure in the history of modern science. On this episode, host Andrew McDiarmid speaks with mathematics educator, curriculum designer, and medical physicist Amos Tarfa to better understand the great scientist’s contributions and lasting influence. Maxwell is considered by some to be the greatest scientist between Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein. As if to confirm this, when asked if he stood on the shoulders of Newton, Einstein once replied, “No, on the shoulders of Maxwell.” Maxwell also had a strong belief that nature showed evidence of intelligent design. Tarfa discusses how Maxwell harmonized his faith and reason, and gives examples of how his discoveries point toward deeper questions about order, design, and meaning in the universe. Plus, enjoy new music from Kim Carney and Gnoss! 

"Twis th' nicht afore Christmas whin aw aboot th' hoose, nae creature wis stirrin', no even a moose. Th' stockings wur hung by th' auld lum wi care in hopes that ol' Santae soon wid be there..." On this episode, Scottish author Kirsty Strange reads her Scots translation of the famous Christmas poem "The Night Before Christmas." Plus, listen to a Highland bagpipe rendition of a classic yuletide carol and enjoy new songs from Siobhan Miller and Church Street Shuffle. Add some Scottish flavor to your Christmas celebrations!

Need a song or a poem to brighten your day? In the 4th installment of our Poetry & Song series, enjoy inspiring verse from Scottish national poet Kathleen Jamie, World War I poet David Mackie, and composer Hugh Roberton. Plus brand new music from trad fusion band DLU, a lovely rendition of the famous Highland air "Westering Home" from the Highland Music Ensemble, and an upbeat track from pioneering band Shooglenifty. Take a virtual trip to Scotland right now with Simply Scottish!

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and we're celebrating the season Scottish-style! Enjoy a great selection of Scottish Christmas music, including bagpipes, Celtic hymns, and a brand new Christmas single from popular Scottish band Deacon Blue. We'll discuss what the phrase "Simply Scottish" means, and you'll hear from Andrew's father Andrew McDiarmid Sr. as he shares memories of a childhood Christmas in Scotland in a clip from our radio archives. Wishing you and your family a blessed and merry Christmas! This episode was originally released in December 2013.

On this episode, Andrew shares 11 top experiences you'll want to add to your own Scottish itinerary! From the summit of Arthur's Seat and the peak of Ben Nevis to the villages along the North Coast 500 and the fresh cuisine on the Isle of Skye, be inspired by these memorable places and activities. Plus, enjoy music from newcomer Katie McFarlane, pianist Neil Pearlman, Gaelic supergroup Daimh, and the Northern Soul sounds of Glasgow musician Kenny Lee Roberts. Want more? Get exclusive episodes, articles, and more when you join our Patreon clan. Learn more at Patreon.com/simplyscottish.

On this episode of Simply Scottish, journey with us to two Edinburgh landmarks as Andrew shares more memories of his childhood in the Athens of the North. Today, The Meadows is a beautiful city park. Discover how the space has been used across the centuries by locals, from drinking water and war garden to derby soccer and the world's fair. Andrew also shares two memories connected to the city's ancient volcano Arthur's Seat, adored by hillwalkers and climbers alike and home to the best views Edinburgh can offer. Along the way, enjoy new and stirring music from Joy Dunlop, Celtic Worship, and Iain Fraser!

Journey with us in the footsteps of Scottish-American naturalist, conservationist, and inventor John Muir! Host Andrew reports on an extraordinary experience visiting the Muir Papers and exhibit at the University of the Pacific in California. Hear what it's like to open and examine boxes of Muir's original papers, letters, and fragments. Plus, a selection of great music as always, including Sheena Wellington, Valtos & Project Smok, and Doron Diamond. And don't miss Finding John Muir, pt. 2 - available to members of our Patreon Clan. Join today!

Scotland's national poet Robert Burns has had a profound impact on the United States since the early years of the republic. On this episode, Andrew talks to nationally syndicated radio host and fellow Scot Janet Parshall on how Burns inspired countless Americans, including two leaders instrumental in America's fight to end slavery: abolitionist Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln. Douglass found great encouragement in Burns and considered himself Scottish at heart. At a Burns celebration in New York in 1849, he mused, "If a warm love of Scotch character—a high appreciation of Scotch genius—constitute any of the qualities of a true Scotch heart, then indeed does a Scotch heart throb beneath these ribs." Plus, we dip into the Simply Scottish Radio Archive to bring you a 1999 reading from my father and former co-host Andrew Sr. He delivers the famous Burns poem "A Man’s A Man For A’ That." And as usual, you’ll hear some lovely Scottish music, this time from Graham Mackenzie, Amer//Hawskworth//Munro, and The Proclaimers. 

Enjoy the second half of our interview with Braveheart writer and Academy Award nominee Randall Wallace! Learn how to live the Braveheart life as we unpack the lessons Randall shares in his book Living the Braveheart Life. Topics include the importance of mentors, why we all need an Uncle Argyle in our lives, and how we can live out the spirit of freedom as William Wallace did. Plus new music from classical guitarist Cam Ash, acclaimed fiddler John McCusker, and Highland accordianist and vocalist Calum MacPhail. 

On this episode, Andrew interviews Braveheart writer and Academy Award nominee Randall Wallace! Hear about the trip to Scotland that introduced Randall to the story of Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace. Discover how Randall learned to be a master storyteller and go on to write and direct several box office hit movies, including We Were Soldiers, Pearl Harbor, and Secretariat. Randall also reveals how to unleash your inner warrior, teacher, and outlaw to live the Braveheart life yourself. Along the way, enjoy rousing music from Cameron Ash and Elaine Meyer. This is Part 1 of a two-part interview.

In this second installment of our Off The Shelf series, host Andrew dusts off a splendid wee book from the 1960s that brings to life the people and places of Edinburgh in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. You get to imagine you're visiting a friend in the majestic Old Town as well as the beautiful New Town. Learn what it was like to live in Scotland's capital city at the height of its glory. And yes, there's a little gory in there too as we touch on the infamous case of the body snatchers! Along the way, enjoy stirring music from Su-a Lee, Teannaich, Fraser Fifield, and Corrina Hewitt.

On the latest Wee Yin episode, Andrew kicks off a new occasional series designed to help you trace your Scottish roots. Learn the basics, like where to turn to start your search and what types of information are out there. Also, find out how you can unlock bonus episodes and other content by becoming a supporter of Simply Scottish. Plus, how to get your hands on some of our authentic Scottish shortbread. Enjoy great Scottish music along the way from Patsy Reid, Gnoss, Charlie Grey, and Joseph Peach.

In the latest installment of our popular Six Degrees of Scotland series, we pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II by exploring her connections to Scotland and its people. Discover Balmoral Castle, the queen’s paradise in the Scottish highlands. Learn why Elizabeth II was often more popular among Scots than the monarchy itself. And we’ll look at how the queen’s example of duty and morality inspired generations across Scotland and the rest of the UK. Along the way, enjoy music from Jocelyn Pettit, Elephant Sessions, Robyn Stapleton, and Breabach.

We're taking you back to Scotland in the 80s! Join host Andrew McDiarmid as he shares more memories of his childhood in Scotland's capital city Edinburgh. Learn about Edinburgh's Italian connection through Tino Luca and his amazing ice-cream business, as well as business partners Alfonso and Sam and their 50-year legacy of cutting the hair of celebrities and locals alike. Plus, Andrew sings a song about Edinburgh, and you'll hear some great new music from Celtic Worship, Kinnaris Quintet, Kim Edgar, and Rachel Sermanni. Get your 1980s fix and learn something new on our latest Wee Yin!

On this episode, we're dusting off selections from a radio episode of Simply Scottish that originally aired in April 2000! Hear Andrew Jr and his father Andrew Sr. profile two courageous Scots - medical pioneer Elsie Inglis and performing legend Sir Harry Lauder. You'll also hear Andrew's dad share a funny story from his tour of the Scottish Highlands back in 1978. Plus, great music you won't want to miss from Bonnie Rideout, Gnoss, Capercaillie, Runrig, Harry Lauder, and Paul Mckenna Band!

On this episode of Simply Scottish, it's all about the music! Enjoy a mix of classic songs and brand new tracks, handpicked by host Andrew McDiarmid. Featuring Deacon Blue, Capercaillie, Eddi Reader, Salsa Celtica, Iain Fraser, Simon Thoumire, and David McGuinness. Warning: the music contained in this episode may cause toe tapping, smiling, daydreaming, and the sudden packing of bags bound for bonnie Scotland!  

You've probably heard of Scottish naturalist and conservationist John Muir, but did you know he almost lost his eyesight in an accident that changed the course of his life? Find out what happened, and listen as we share some stirring passages from Muir's essay describing the magnificence and wonder of the Grand Canyon. Plus, enjoy a mix of brand new and classic Scottish music from Tina Jordan Rees, Wolfstone, the Scott Wood Band, and Alistair Ogilvy.  

Wee Yins are shorter episodes of Simply Scottish you can play anytime, anywhere! In this latest entry in our Six Degrees of Scotland series, learn the Scottish and spiritual roots of basketball as we profile minister and athlete James Naismith. And we'll look at fellow Scottish-Canadian Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of the popular children's novel Anne of Green Gables. Plus, enjoy brand new and recent music from Maeve Mackinnon, Megan Henderson, and Sarah Markey.

To fully appreciate our freedoms today, we have to understand the history behind them. In this episode of Simply Scottish, we take you back to 17th century Scotland to tell the story of the Covenanters, brave men and women who put God before kings and fought for the freedom to worship according to their conscience and conviction. We'll also look at how the Covenanters inspired the American founders in their quest to form a new government for the people. Plus, enjoy music from Bradley Parker, Iona Fyfe, Kate & Raphael, and Alan Reid & Rob van Sante. 

Did you know that former U.S. president Ronald Reagan is related to a radical weaver from Paisley? On our latest Wee Yin, we look at Reagan's Scottish ancestry to see where he might have gotten the tenacious spirit that launched him into Hollywood stardom and the White House. Enjoy tunes along the way from Jenn Butterworth and Laura-Beth Salter, as well as a new arrangement of music by Christopher Dean and Dougie MacLean, originally made popular in the 1992 movie The Last of the Mohicans.

In this episode of Simply Scottish, learn why we need Scottish poet Robert Burns now more than ever before! He's been dead over two centuries but his catchy songs and verse championing liberty, equality, and democracy are alive and well. See how Burns helped to unite Americans during the Civil War and discover three ways he can unite us again in 2022. Hear poetry about Burns and by Burns, along with a great mix of Burns-inspired music from Hamish Napier, Kilmarnock Edition, Brina, and Davy Steele. 

Before it was a podcast, it was a weekly radio show! On this episode of Simply Scottish from our radio archives, hear co-host and co-founder Andrew McDiarmid Sr. teach us about the Scottish merchant navy, as well as share his humorous stories of almost meeting one of Scotland's most famous sons, Sean Connery. Plus, Andrew Jr. on Sir Robert Watson-Watt and his development of radar technology. And as usual, you’ll hear a great mix of Scottish music, old and new: Dougie Maclean, Iona Fyfe, Andy Stewart, and Karen Marshalsay. Cast COVID aside and take a virtual trip to Scotland now!

Episode #72 continues our series exploring Scotland's connections with the world! Although at least a third of the signatories of America's Declaration of Independence were Scots by birth or descent, three in particular deserve mention. This is the story of Charles Thomson, James Wilson, and Thomas Jefferson himself and their uniquely Scottish contribution to the famous document that birthed a nation unlike any other in history, the United States of America. Plus, enjoy inspiring music from Fergus McCreadie, Ainsley Hamill, and Niamh Parsons.

In this special un-scripted episode of Simply Scottish, host Andrew McDiarmid talks about the first father's day without his father, watching Sean Connery on the big screen again, Scotland's short-lived EURO 2020 football campaign, and how to live life off-script and make the most of life's tests and challenges. Plus, new music from Project Smok, Iona Fyfe, and more!

On this episode marking the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Culloden, an interview with site operations manager Raoul Curtis Machin. Learn how the famous war grave is at risk from developers and what's being done to protect it. Plus, enjoy great new music from Iona Fyfe, James Duncan Mackenzie, and Calum Mckenzie Jones.

It's another Wee Yin, a nugget of Scottishness you can enjoy anywhere, anytime! On this episode, learn about the Texan roots of your favorite Scottish podcast. Hear father and son duo Andrew Jr. and Sr. chat with Scottish radio station Central FM twenty years ago about bringing Scotland to South Texas. Enjoy brand new tunes from James Lindsay and Grainne Brady as well as a little gem from accordion legend Jimmy Shand.

In the latest of our Six Degrees of Scotland series, we profile three American legends of Scottish descent: singer and activist Joan Baez, Samuel "Uncle Sam" Wilson, and the one and only Jack Daniel of Tennessee! Pour yourself a dram and enjoy an amazing all-Gaelic musical lineup with songs from Brian O hEadhra and Fiona Mackenzie, Talisk, and Capercaillie. Slàinte mhath! (Good health!)

On this episode of Simply Scottish, get a dose of encouragement and inspiration to help you navigate the coronavirus pandemic and beyond. Find out what advice yer Scottish granny would give you with our selection of pithy quotes and sayings. You'll also hear some inspiring lines of poetry and enjoy stirring new music from Jenna Reid, Ross Ainslie, and Chris Amer along with a classic song from The Proclaimers!

Join us for a hot cup of tea, a biscuit, and some good conversation! On this episode of Simply Scottish, host Andrew and his wife Amy recall their amazing homecoming trip to Scotland, including highlights of Melrose Abbey and Edinburgh Castle. Along the way, they share some great new Scottish music with you, with songs from the Tom Orr Band, Kim Carney, and newcomer Hannah Rarity. Pull up a chair and enjoy!

Wee Yins are shorter episodes of Simply Scottish you can enjoy anywhere and anytime! Learn more about the ancient royal burgh of Dunfermline as well as the city's enduring connection with Scotland's famous king Robert the Bruce. Enjoy music from Gillebride MacMillan and CARA too!

On this episode of Simply Scottish, we profile Scotland's Carnegie libraries a century later. Are these gifts from steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie still a valuable community resource or have they fallen victim to modernity and the digital age? Hear from historian Kenneth Breisch and enjoy new music from James Lindsay, Claire Gullan, Eabhal, and Kim Richards!

On this episode of Simply Scottish, we continue exploring Scotland's global reach with three more profiles of Scottish Americans. We'll look at inventor William Kennedy Dickson, actress and singer Judy Garland, and author Washington Irving. Plus, great music from Cruinn, Calum Stewart, Iona Fyfe, and others!

On this episode of Simply Scottish, we continue testing Scotland's global reach in our Six Degrees of Scotland series. Here, we profile famous Scottish Americans, including actress Reece Witherspoon, president Ronald Reagan, and singer Johnny Cash. Also, enjoy great new music from Mike Vass, Siar, Eddi Reader, and Sarah Hayes!

Wee Yins are shorter episodes of Simply Scottish designed to give you a quick Scottish fix! Enjoy the podcast? Here, you'll learn how to become a sponsor of Simply Scottish. With three levels of support, there's a way you can help to expand the reach of the show and ensure the production of new episodes. You'll also hear a profile of Scottish inventor David Dunbar Buick, part of our Six Degrees of Scotland series as featured in The Scots Magazine. Plus, brand new music from Mec Lir and powerhouse band Runrig!

Hailed as a "musical hero" by the USA's Wall Street Journal, renowned Scottish singer-songwriter Dougie MacLean is the subject of our latest Artist Spotlight! Tune in as Dougie discusses his musical influences, the enduring popularity of Scottish folk music, the impact of the digital revolution on his career, and how a wee song called "Caledonia" became a cultural phenomenon. You'll also hear Dougie's popular tune "The Gael," featured in the 1992 movie The Last of the Mohicans, and a track from his latest album, a collaboration with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Join us as we celebrate one of Scotland's greatest modern musicians!

Before it was a podcast, it was a weekly radio show! On this lively episode of Simply Scottish from the radio archives, hear Member of the Scottish Parliament Adam Ingram discuss a campaign to protect and promote Scotland’s national flag. You’ll also learn how to make the traditional Scottish fruit treat Dundee cake, and co-host Andrew McDiarmid Sr. relives memories of Leith, the bustling suburb of Scotland’s capital city where he was born and grew up. All this plus a healthy dose of traditional and contemporary Scottish music! (Original air date: 1/17/2001)

Journey with us to Scotland's city of discovery, Dundee. We start by exploring the three industries Dundee was famed for in years past - jute, jam, and journalism. Then we look at the Dundee of today, a hub of culture, biomedical research, media, and artistic innovation. Along the way, enjoy great music from Sketch, Twelfth Day, Deacon Blue, and a classic from Andy Stewart, plus find out how you can sponsor Simply Scottish and help take the show to new listeners around the world!

Wee Yins are shorter episodes of Simply Scottish. At ten minutes or less, they're a great way to get a quick Scottish fix! On this episode, we profile Scottish author Nigel Tranter, who wrote more than 60 historical fiction novels bringing Scotland's history to life. Learn more about Tranter's life and his unique writing style. You'll also hear a stirring excerpt from one of his most popular books, The Wallace. Plus, enjoy new music from CampbellGray and a haunting tune from Skyedance!

On September 18th, 2014, Scotland made history with a referendum on independence. Tune in as we review the results of the vote and how it has forever changed the face of Scotland and the United Kingdom. Will the dream of independence stay alive? What are the powers promised to the Scottish Parliament? Is this the end of the debate or the beginning of an exciting new chapter? Hear music from the newest and brightest artists in Scotland, including Vigo Thieves, Na Seudan Ur, Jane Jackson, and more, plus highlights from a recent issue of Scottish Memories magazine!

In celebration of Scotland's historic referendum on independence, we look back at 300 years of union between Scotland and England. From the Union of the Crowns in 1603 to the Scottish National Party's landslide victory in 2011, we highlight the remarkable events that led to what British prime minister David Cameron calls the "greatest merger in history." Plus, enjoy music from Shooglenifty, Robin Laing, Breabach, and more!

History, natural beauty, and adventure come together in Andrew's Ten Favorite Scottish Destinations. You won't find this list in any guide book! In part 2, journey with us to Stirling, home of the Wallace Monument and an amazing castle experience. Then it's on to the charm of St. Andrews and the thrill of Aviemore, gateway to Cairngorms National Park. We conclude with a trip to the tip of the British mainland, John o' Groats, and a visit to the Isle of Skye in Scotland's western isles. Plus, discover Scotland's role in shaping the Commonwealth Games, and hear some great music from Saor Patrol, Skerryvore, Emily Smith, and more!

What do you get when you throw a young modern-day English woman into 18th century Scotland at the height of the Jacobite Uprisings? An unforgettable story! We sat down with international bestselling author Diana Gabaldon to discuss the inspiration for her popular Outlander novel series, the importance of research, the new Outlander television series, her favorite place in Scotland, and more! Plus, enjoy music in Gaelic from Capercaillie and new songs from Cherry Grove and Ewan McLennan!

Wee Yins are shorter episodes of Simply Scottish, between 5 and 10 minutes in length, with a few minutes of commentary on a Scottish topic followed by a great song or tune! On our first Wee Yin, enjoy some recollections of growing up in Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh - ice cream vans, riding the city's buses, and the best fish and chips in town! And you'll hear The Referendum, a new tune from Alasdair Fraser & Natalie Haas that celebrates Scotland's historic choice in 2014. Enjoy this Wee Yin anytime, anywhere!

Celebrate our 50th episode with us! History, natural beauty, and adventure all come together in Andrew's Ten Favorite Scottish Destinations. You won't find this list in any guide book! From the gems of the capital to the tranquility of the borders, from the gorgeous Hebridean islands to the snowy peaks of the Cairngorms, this is Scotland at its best, as judged by Scottish writer and Simply Scottish host Andrew McDiarmid. Plus, hear a classic from Deacon Blue and enjoy brand new music from Salsa Celtica and Julie Fowlis!

Join us as we illuminate the history of curling from medieval pastime to modern sport! Just what is curling, and how did it become the popular Olympic event it is today? From the purpose-built ponds of Scotland to the frozen reaches of Canada, from Chamonix to Sochi, celebrate with us this curious mix of athleticism, skill, and strategy on ice. Hear the Curler's Grace, discover the Scottish island where the world's curling stones are made, and enjoy some great Scottish music from Capercaillie, Fiona Mackenzie, Elaine Meyer, and more!

It's electric! In a new series called Six Degrees of Scotland, we explore Scotland's connections to the world. On this episode, learn five different ways to connect Scotland to the history and development of electricity, from the groundbreaking work of James Maxwell and Lord Kelvin to the innovation of James Bowman Lindsay, Thomas Edison, and others. Plus, enjoy highlights from the latest issue of Scottish Memories Magazine! We'll explore the transport issue including trams, buses, trains, and more. Listen to great music from new Gaelic quartet Cruinn, the latest from Blazin' Fiddles, the sound of the pipes, and more!

Roman Empire. British Empire. Scottish Empire? We've all heard of Carnegie, Muir, Lipton, and Connery. Discover all the lesser-known Scots and their lasting contributions to the world in the new book Scotland’s Global Empire. Author Jock Gallagher shares highlights of his book with us and explains his challenge in bringing so many stories together to weave a compelling case for a global Scottish empire. Enjoy music from Rura, Kilmarnock Edition, Eddi Reader, and more!

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and we're celebrating the season Scottish-style! Enjoy a great selection of Scottish Christmas music, including bagpipes, Celtic hymns, and a brand new Christmas single from popular Scottish band Deacon Blue. We'll discuss what the phrase "Simply Scottish" means, and you'll hear from my father Andrew McDiarmid Sr. as he shares memories of a childhood Christmas in Scotland in a clip from our radio archives. All this and more awaits you in A Simply Scottish Christmas!

From 1999-2001, Simply Scottish aired as a weekly radio show on stations in the U.S. and Canada. The program, hosted by Andrew McDiarmid Jr. and Sr., was recorded live at the Classic 88FM Studios in South Texas. On episode #71, we welcomed in the year 2000 with a great selection of Scottish and Celtic music, a look at the Isle of Arran in an ongoing feature called Scotland's Small Wonders, and a discussion of the work and life of author Muriel Spark. Enjoy the banter of the two Andrews and a healthy dose of all things Scottish on this episode from our Simply Scottish Radio Archive!

In part 2 of our profile, we look at Lipton the tea baron and avid yachtsman! By age 40, Lipton had built a grocery empire across Great Britain. In the 1890s, he added tea to his product line, introduced America to his teas, and soon boasted great blends at unbeatable prices, direct from the tea garden to the teapot! We'll also explore Lipton's passion for yachting and his valiant attempts to win the prestigious America's Cup trophy. All this plus great new music from Maeve O'Boyle, Capercaillie, Runrig, and a classic from The Alexander Brothers!