The Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey. Scotland’s Business Podcast.

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202

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Nov 2026

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About the show

A weekly podcast from Glasgow that brings sharp commentary and real-time reaction to the ever-evolving world of business. Hosted by two of Scotland’s most influential entrepreneurs, Sir Tom Hunter and Lord Willie Haughey. This is a front-row seat to how global economic shifts, political turbulence, and technological disruption are impacting businesses in Scotland and beyond. Each episode also features candid conversations with Scotland’s top CEOs, founders, and innovators, unpacking how they are navigating uncertainty, adapting to change, and seizing new opportunities. Through a no-nonsense Scottish lens, Hunter and Haughey offer grounded insight and practical advice for anyone in business - whether you’re scaling a startup or steering a legacy brand. Made in Glasgow. Relevant Worldwide.

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November 8, 2026Episode 20330 min

A Brutally Honest Verdict on Scotland's Future

Air Date: November 8th, 2026 with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This week on the Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey , Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey tackle some of the biggest issues facing Scotland, the UK and the global economy. From US politics, interest rate fears and AI risks to Scotland's economic future, housing crisis and business growth, the pair deliver a passionate and thought-provoking discussion on leadership, investment and what needs to happen next. They ask a crucial question: Are Scotland's best days behind it, or can bold decisions unlock a brighter future? Along the way, they debate Trump, growth, manufacturing, energy costs, housing, skills, AI threats and why Scotland needs action rather than more delay. Based on Key Episode Highlights The impact of US midterm elections and global instability on the economy. Why interest rates could rise again and what it means for businesses. Tom Hunter's challenge to Scotland's leaders ahead of the Scottish Budget. The question that stopped Tom in his tracks: "Are Scotland's best days behind us? Housing shortages, planning barriers and practical solutions. Why economic growth should be Scotland's number one priority. The dangers and opportunities presented by AI. Concerns over cyber attacks, crypto security and digital vulnerability. Manufacturing recovery, energy costs and industrial competitiveness. Why entrepreneurs remain Scotland's greatest strength Join the Conversation. What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok. For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events, visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

November 1, 2026Episode 20229 min

Our Verdict on the Chancellor's Budget

Air Date: November 1st, 2026 with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter Fresh from a high-profile meeting with housing minister Angela Rayner, Willie Haughey and Tom Hunter dive into the big economic stories shaping Scotland and beyond. From the Chancellor's latest budget and Scotland's growth challenge to concerns over public spending, housing policy and the future of entrepreneurship, they ask whether governments are doing enough to drive prosperity. They also explore growing concerns around AI investment, discuss major developments involving Alphabet and Anthropic, and look ahead to the sold-out Founders Conference at Gleneagles. Episode Highlights Willie Haughey reflects on his meeting with housing minister Angela Rayner and Scotland's housing opportunities. Analysis of John Healey's budget and what it means for businesses, entrepreneurs and taxpayers. The debate over Scotland's tax policies, public spending and economic growth. Concerns about "ghost workers" and the cost of government inefficiency. Why Alphabet's huge market loss could signal a wider rethink on AI spending. Trump, the US midterms and the political stories influencing markets. The future of Scotland's energy transition and the Acorn carbon capture project. Why Scotland's whisky industry is feeling the pressure from rising taxes. A preview of the Founders Conference featuring Sir Chris Hoy, Debbie Crosbie and Noel Fitzpatrick. The latest on Anthropic's potential mega-IPO and whether the AI investment boom is nearing a turning point Chapters 00:07 Willie Meets Angela Rayner 01:45 Breaking Down John Healey's Budget 04:00 Scotland's Budget and Barnett Consequentials 05:10 The £27m Ghost Workers Controversy 06:37 Growth, Taxation and Government Spending 08:10 Housing Crisis and Landlord Tax Debate 10:49 Can Scotland Deliver Economic Growth? 11:48 Alphabet Loses Half a Trillion Dollars 12:07 Is the AI Investment Bubble Bursting? 14:16 Christine Lagarde's Next Move 14:51 Trump, Obama and the US Midterms 17:10 Acorn Carbon Capture and Scotland's Energy Future 18:29 Whisky Industry Hit by Rising Taxes 20:00 Banks Face Another Tax Increase 20:48 Founders Conference Preview 21:55 Sir Chris Hoy, Debbie Crosbie and Star Speakers 23:15 Nationwide, Virgin Money and Glasgow Jobs 24:16 Entrepreneurial Scotland's Fundraising Success 25:51 The Saltire Foundation's Impact 26:59 Anthropic's Mega IPO Plans 27:24 Investors Rethink the AI Gold Rush 28:27 Will Anthropic Miss Its Valuation Target? Join the Conversation. What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok. For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events, visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

October 25, 2026Episode 20135 min

Can Scotland Tackle Its Jobs, Housing & Energy Challenges?

Air Date: October 25th, 2026 with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This week on the Go Radio Business Show, Hunter and Haughey tackle Scotland's biggest business challenges, from youth unemployment and apprenticeships to North Sea energy, housing and the cost of doing business. Following a successful Go Radio Business Show event at Hampden, the pair reflect on the importance of bringing Scotland's business community together and keeping pressure on the Scottish Government to support businesses struggling with rates. The discussion turns to the Jackdaw gas field, with Tom welcoming the decision to move forward and questioning why the UK continues to import energy while North Sea jobs and investment are at stake. Housing is also high on the agenda, as Willie and Tom warn that a proposed building safety levy could make new developments even less viable and worsen Scotland's housing shortage. One of the biggest talking points comes as Willie outlines a plan to tackle youth unemployment and the construction skills shortage, offering to take on **200 apprentices immediately** if the government supports his proposed funding approach. The pair also examine the upcoming UK Budget, whether the benefits system is discouraging people from working, Elon Musk's ambitions for Tesla and SpaceX, the future of AI investment, and the debate over public ownership of bus services. With strong opinions, practical proposals and a shared determination to see Scottish businesses succeed, it's another packed episode of the Go Radio Business Show. Key Highlights 00:00 Introduction & Hampden Business Event Recap 02:04 Scotland's Business Rates Campaign Gains Momentum 03:13 Upcoming Budget and Support for Scottish Businesses 04:20 Jackdaw Gas Field Gets the Go-Ahead 06:08 Why UK Energy Costs Are Hurting Competitiveness 07:41 Proposed Building Safety Levy Sparks Housing Concerns 09:34 Who Should Pay for Building Safety Failures? 12:07 Glasgow's £1m Fund for Vacant Listed Buildings 12:54 UK Budget Predictions and Possible Tax Changes 14:03 UK Borrowing, Inflation and Unemployment Figures 16:28 Is the Benefits System Making Work Less Attractive? 18:53 Youth Unemployment and the Need for Action 19:43 Willie's Plan to Tackle Youth Unemployment 21:49 Willie Offers to Take On 200 Apprentices 22:33 Could Scotland Lead the Way on Apprenticeships? 24:02 Elon Musk, SpaceX Shares and Tesla Merger Plans 26:27 Political Donations and Donald Trump 27:41 Is AI Investment Becoming a Bubble? 29:19 Debate Over Public Ownership of Bus Services 30:35 Willie: Governments Are Terrible at Running Businesses 32:07 New Housing Development Approved in Glasgow 32:27 Celebrating Scottish Business Success Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok. For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events, visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/ #goradio #goradiobusinessshow #williehaughey #tomhunter #scottishbusiness #apprenticeships #scotland #business

October 18, 2026Episode 20027 min

Business Leaders Call for Bold Action on Housing, Skills and Competitiveness

Air Date: October 18th, 2026 with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This week on the Go Radio Business Show , Hunter and Haughey cover a wide-ranging agenda from global business wins to Scotland’s economic future. Willie celebrates the signing of a major long-term contract in Australia and reflects on the opportunities he sees in a booming economy Down Under. Closer to home, the discussion turns to talent retention, devolution, housing, investment, infrastructure and Scotland's growth challenges. The pair examine lessons from Norway's £2.2 trillion sovereign wealth fund, debate whether closer UK-EU economic ties could unlock growth, and explore emerging opportunities in defence, aerospace, robotics and housing. They also tackle labour shortages, business rates, energy costs and why Scotland must become more competitive for investment. With optimism around innovation and concern about economic stagnation, the episode blends business insight, politics and practical solutions. Key Highlights Willie signs a major 10-year multi-billion-pound contract in Australia and discusses the country's booming economy. Discussion on why young Scottish talent is increasingly moving abroad and what powers Scotland may need to create more opportunities at home. Reflections on Andy Burnham's visit to Motherwell College and the debate around devolving DWP responsibilities to Scotland. Lessons from Norway's sovereign wealth fund and whether Scotland missed a historic opportunity with oil revenues. Glasgow's plans to unlock stalled housing developments through a new public-private investment fund. £57 million investment at Prestwick Airport from GE Aerospace creating skilled jobs and strengthening Ayrshire's aerospace sector. Debate over Goldman Sachs analysis suggesting renewed UK-EU integration could significantly boost economic growth. NAMI Surgical secures funding to advance robotic surgery technology in Scotland. Discussion on defence manufacturing, national security and Scotland's role in a changing geopolitical landscape. Construction labour shortages, business rates and energy costs continue to threaten economic growth and investment. Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

October 11, 2026Episode 19934 min

What's Happening To Our Jobs?

Air Date: October 11th, 2026 with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This week on the Go Radio Business Show , Hunter & Haughey tackle some of the biggest issues facing Scotland and the UK economy. From the growing housing crisis and rising youth unemployment to the rapid impact of AI on jobs and workplaces, they discuss why bold action is needed from government and business alike. They also explore the rise of Chinese car manufacturers, the future of Scottish industry, and the opportunities that still exist for entrepreneurs determined to succeed. Key Highlights Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter discuss why Scotland remains a great place to start and grow a business despite current challenges. A deep dive into the housing crisis, including concerns over rising build costs and Taylor Wimpey's decision to halt new developments in London. The case for reducing regulation and creating incentives to support housebuilding and apprenticeships. Why youth unemployment is rising and what governments could do to help young people into work. Discussion around business rates, skills shortages and priorities for the upcoming Scottish Budget. The growing influence of Chinese manufacturers on global industries, particularly the automotive sector. Concerns about AI, remote working and the future of employment across the public and private sectors. Reflections on Grangemouth, Scottish manufacturing, and the need to protect high-value jobs and industries. Book recommendations from Tom and Willie, including biographies from the worlds of business and music. Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

October 4, 2026Episode 19835 min

Can Scotland Avoid an Economic Squeeze?

Air Date: October 4th, 2026 with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter Scotland’s economy is facing growing pressures, and this week Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter tackle the issues head-on. From soaring government debt, rising borrowing costs and escalating fuel prices to the housing crisis, business rates, and the mounting challenges facing hospitality, they examine what it all means for businesses and families across the country. Drawing on real-world examples, they discuss why governments must act faster, where opportunities for growth still exist, and why investment remains critical despite the storm clouds on the horizon. Key Highlights The warning signs from rising government debt and 30-year bond yields. Why diesel prices and global conflicts are pushing up business costs. A candid review of Labour’s economic approach and the challenges facing government finances. The closure of a Perthshire pub as business rates continue to hit hospitality hard. Positive news from Rolls-Royce and major defence investment bringing jobs and apprenticeships to Scotland. Why Scotland's housing emergency is worsening despite political promises. The need for faster planning decisions and lower construction costs to boost housebuilding. Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey offer practical solutions for politicians and policymakers. Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

September 27, 2026Episode 19729 min

The Growth Debate: What's Holding Scotland Back?

Air Date: September 27th, 2026 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter This week on the Go Radio Business Show with Hunter & Haughey , Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey tackle some of the biggest issues facing Scotland's economy. From bold proposals to reduce Scotland's 32 councils, to skills shortages, housing challenges, and the future of economic growth, the pair share candid views on what government and business leaders need to do next. Plus, they discuss major investment wins for Scotland, Warren Buffett's retirement, and the lessons every entrepreneur can learn from one of the greatest investors of all time. Episode Highlights Scotland's council shake-up: should 32 councils become 8 or 10? Why skills shortages are holding back business growth The planning system crisis impacting housing and investment Chemify secures £22 million to expand AI-driven drug discovery Edinburgh Airport announces a £500 million expansion Warren Buffett's retirement and his greatest business lessons The future of Scotland's life sciences sector Tom and Willie debate how to boost GDP and create meaningful jobs BrewDog's ongoing story and James Watt's latest move Exclusive insights from conversations with UK political powerbroker Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

September 20, 2026Episode 19625 min

Inflation Rises, AI Disrupts and Scotland’s Economic Future

Air Date: September 20th, 2026 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter The Go Radio Business Show with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events This week on the Go Radio Business Show, Hunter & Haughey tackle the biggest stories affecting businesses, workers and the wider economy. The discussion covers rising inflation and the outlook for interest rates, Scotland's growing homelessness and housing pressures, and whether the country can unlock its renewable energy potential through a new wave of data centres. The conversation also explores the growing influence of wealthy political donors, the future regulation of cryptocurrency, and the real-world impact of artificial intelligence as businesses increasingly replace jobs with technology. Plus, the team debate Donald Trump's latest interventions on the global stage and what they could mean for international politics and trade. Episode Highlights Latest inflation figures and what they mean for interest rates Why unemployment remains a key economic indicator Glasgow's housing and homelessness challenge The ongoing debate around Scottish independence and public finances The rise of data centres and Scotland's renewable energy opportunity Should Scotland benefit from cheaper energy pricing? Can wealthy donors influence political outcomes? The future of cryptocurrency regulation AI job losses and the growing call for safeguards Donald Trump's latest political interventions and global influence Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

September 13, 2026Episode 19527 min

AI Armageddon, Tax Trouble and Scotland’s Investment Boom

Air Date: September 13th, 2026 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter The Go Radio Business Show with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events This week on the Go Radio Business Show , Tom Hunter and Willie Haughey tackle some of the biggest stories shaping Scotland, the UK and beyond. From alarming warnings about artificial intelligence and its potential risks, to rising government borrowing costs, taxation policy, and the growing debate around attracting wealth creators, the pair explore what these issues mean for businesses, investors and taxpayers alike. There's also a look at major investment opportunities across Scotland, including the SaxaVord Spaceport, Glasgow's booming technology sector, ambitious plans for the SEC campus, North Sea energy developments, and the growing confidence being shown by major investors backing Scotland's future. Episode Highlights AI experts warning about potential risks to humanity Why the UK now faces record government borrowing costs The debate over Scotland's higher income tax rates Billionaire investor Chris Rokos leaving the UK New leadership and challenges facing Glasgow £60 million investment plans for SaxaVord Spaceport Billion-pound ambitions for Glasgow's SEC campus Major AI and semiconductor investment in Glasgow Progress on North Sea energy projects New plans to accelerate major housing and infrastructure developments ScottishPower's multi-billion-pound infrastructure investment programme The Kiltwalk's drive towards raising £100 million for Scottish charities Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/

September 6, 2026Episode 15934 min

Hunter and Haughey Return: The Big Questions Facing Scotland's Economy

Air Date: September 6th, 2026 Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter The Go Radio Business Show with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events Fresh from their summer break and celebrating their award-winning success, Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter return for a brand-new season of the Go Radio Business Show. From political leadership and Scotland's economic future to investment, innovation, business rates, Glasgow's challenges, and inspiring entrepreneurial success stories, this episode is packed with honest opinions, lively debate, and practical insight on the issues shaping Scotland's future. Key Highlights 🏆 Celebrating the Go Radio Business Show winning Business Podcast of the Year. 🇬🇧 Discussion on political leadership, the future of the UK economy, and new administrations in Westminster and Holyrood. 📈 Tom shares his thoughts on economic growth, income tax, and making Scotland more competitive. 🏙️ A frank debate about Glasgow's challenges following a recent BBC documentary and what needs to change. 🤖 The rise of AI and data centres, including major investments in North Lanarkshire. 💰 Positive news for Scottish investment, innovation and scaling businesses. 🚀 Success stories from VASO, QuickBlock and cutting-edge Scottish life sciences companies. 🍽️ Concerns about business rates, hospitality pressures and government policy. ❤️ A heartfelt tribute to business icon Dolly Parton and the lessons entrepreneurs can learn from her. 🎯 Recruitment opens for the next Scale Up Scotland programme, helping ambitious Scottish businesses grow. Join the Conversation What did you think of this episode? Email: GoBusiness@thisisgo.co.uk Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD... For more about our sponsor, Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events visit: https://www.hampdenpark.co.uk/goradio/