Best Improving Scottish Football Podcasts (2025)

1
The Decline of Scottish Football? European Failure Laid Bare (Emergency Podcast!) 35:59

6d ago35:59

35:59

Emergency Podcast: The Decline of Scottish Football | European Failure Laid BareScottish football’s latest European collapse is here — and it’s time to stop pretending everything’s fine.🌳 Link to all our socials: https://linktr.ee/ImprovingScottishFo...🙋🏻‍♂️ For partnership enquiries: [email protected], Scotland football, …

1
The Worst Old Firm Ever & Transfer Window Fallout 28:34

20h ago28:34

28:34

Rangers and Celtic play out possibly the worst derby of all time, but have contrasting transfer windows... Socials: @bhoybearpod

1
#565 | How I Make Podcast Episodes 23:37

6d ago23:37

23:37

Ever wondered how the (podcast) sausage is made? In this slightly "meta" episode, I reveal the step-by-step process to make an episode of English Learning for Curious Minds. Choosing podcast topics: interest, timelessness, and neutrality Avoiding controversial topics and current affairs Researching topics through books, articles, and data Writing f…

1
REACTION: Celtic knocked out of Champions League, Rangers draw with St Mirren 39:14

8d ago39:14

39:14

What's the point in the Champions Leage money if you don't spend it? Celtic produce one of the worst performances in their history to exit the Champions League to Kairat Almaty of Kazakhstan. Across the city, Rangers don't have their own problems to seek as they endure their worst start to the league in 36 years. Socials: @bhoybearpod - get in touc…

1
#563 | The Curious Origins of The Nobel Prize 23:19

20d ago23:19

23:19

Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, was shocked to read his own obituary branding him the "merchant of death." While the story might not be entirely true, it pushed him to reconsider his legacy. His fortune went on to establish the Nobel Prizes, honouring achievements in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace, ensuring his name is …

1
Russell Martin - Under Pressure on the 10th August?! 38:48

22d ago38:48

38:48

Is Russell Martin really under pressure already? Rangers perform brilliantly in Europe, but then have to save a point against Dundee at home as Celtic gain an impressive 2-0 win away to Aberdeen with a Hatate wonder goal. Follow us on socials @bhoybearpod Email: [email protected] SSP Media

1
MIDWEEK: Rangers progress in Europe & starting 11s for the weekend 19:38

1M ago19:38

19:38

Join us for the new midweek review episode of the Bhoy and the Bear. Rangers defeat Panathanaikos to move closer to Champions League football and Celtic have signed.... nobody new, at the time of writing. With the season starting this weekend, Paddy and Scott reveal what they think will be the first starting lineups of the season.…

1
#560 | What Makes An Italian? 20:51

1M ago20:51

20:51

In part one of a three-part mini-series on the theme of citizenship and identity, we'll ask ourselves, "What makes someone Italian?" We'll explore the topic of citizenship and identity in Italy, and see what the current laws tell us about what it means to be (or not to be) Italian. Definitions of jus soli and jus sanguinis Italy's citizenship rules…

1
50: New season... same concerns? 39:28

1M ago39:28

39:28

The Bhoy and the Bear are back for a third series! It's all change at Rangers, and it's the same story at Celtic - fans frustrated at the board for a perceived lack of ambition or signings. Join us for some unpopular opinions and some new season predictions!By SSP Media

1
#558 | General Hannibal | Rome’s Greatest Enemy 27:46

2M ago27:46

27:46

Hannibal of Carthage, one of history's greatest military strategists, almost brought the Roman Republic to its knees. As a boy, he swore eternal enmity against Rome, leading him to cross the Alps with his diverse army and elephants, stunning the Romans. Despite his victories, he never managed to capture Rome, but his legacy of brilliance and determ…

1
#555 | Mobutu Sese Seko | The King of the Kleptocrats 26:05

2M ago26:05

26:05

Meet Mobutu Sese Seko, the man who rose from a lowly army officer to become the autocratic ruler of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Wearing his signature leopard-skin hat, Mobutu rebranded the country as Zaire and himself as a symbol of African pride. Despite his charismatic persona and lavish lifestyle, his regime left the country impoverish…

1
#553 | A Short History Of The Minimum Wage 24:56

3M ago24:56

24:56

In this episode, we'll explore the complex world of minimum wage laws, from their surprising origins in Australia and New Zealand to modern debates around their effectiveness. Do they protect the lowest-paid workers, or do they do more damage than good? History of the minimum wage globally Early minimum wage laws in Australia and New Zealand Introd…

1
49: Rangers' new owners & reaction to Russell Martin 29:43

3M ago29:43

29:43

It's all change at Ibrox. The 49ers takeover leaves Rangers with new leadership on and off the pitch. What does this mean for the blue side of Glasgow - and how will Celtic respond, if at all? Apologies for the sound quality this week - recorded in varying locations! Tiktok/Instagram/Youtube: @Bhoybearpod…

1
Croatia cracked the footballing code! These are the key lessons for Scotland! 18:31

3M ago18:31

18:31

- 75% of the players in their league are home grown! - Youth football is much more competitive than in Scotland - Kids play multi-sports – not just football! 🌳 Link to all our socials: https://linktr.ee/ImprovingScottishFootball 🙋🏻‍♂️ For partnership enquiries: [email protected] Kieran is joined by Ian Coll from Sparta Prague, for…

1
#550 | The Egyptian Revolution 28:01

3M ago28:01

28:01

In 2011, Egypt erupted in protest, toppling a 30-year regime. What began as a grassroots movement against an autocratic leader turned into a complex struggle for democracy and power. In this episode, we'll travel through the events that led from the hopeful dawn of revolution to the military's return to power, and see how social media and global ev…

1
48: The Don of a New Age? Cup Final Debrief and Rangers' Takeover with Aberdeen fan Jordan 47:58

3M ago47:58

47:58

The season is over. Celtic win the league and the league cup, while Aberdeen take the Scottish Cup back to the Granite City for the first time in 35 years. Rangers are trophyless but do finish the season on a high though, as the takeover finally happens! Returning to the pod is Aberdeen fan Jordan as we discuss the cup final. Tiktok: @bhoybearpod Y…

1
47: How do we improve Scottish football? Live Tiktok reaction! 25:17

3M ago25:17

25:17

Our Bhoy recently outlined his 3 point plan to automatically improve Scottish football - you can watch that here: https://www.tiktok.com/@bhoybearpod/video/7499030085735828768 This generated a lot of debate and some really interesting questions and points from fans of other clubs - which is the reason we started this pod in the first place. We thou…

1
The fans have spoken! Here’s what matters most to Scottish football supporters 18:07

3M ago18:07

18:07

- “Scrap the two-legged play-offs" - “It's time to re-think the alcohol ban" - “Hardly anyone wants a 12-team league" 🌳 Link to all our socials: https://linktr.ee/ImprovingScottishFootball 🙋🏻‍♂️ For partnership enquiries: [email protected] Kieran is joined by marketing expert Michael Bochel for this special mini-episode. Scotland,…

1
#548 | The Salem Witch Trials 21:42

3M ago21:42

21:42

In this episode, we'll explore the eerie events of the Salem Witch Trials, a chilling tale of suspicion, fear, and injustice in 17th-century Massachusetts. Discover how a village turned against itself, leading to the execution of innocent people amidst accusations of witchcraft, and consider the theories behind what really happened. The harsh winte…

1
Innovation is essential! We need to think like the Dutch and be a destination for young talent (Special mini-episode with Rory Hamilton) 15:46

4M ago15:46

15:46

- We need to study what the Dutch are doing so well - Innovation is key - otherwise Scottish football will move backwards. - We should be the place where every young British player wants to go. 🌳 Link to all our socials: https://linktr.ee/ImprovingScottishFootball 🙋🏻‍♂️ For partnership enquiries: [email protected] Kieran is joined…

1
#545 | The Life of Lawrence of Arabia 24:46

4M ago24:46

24:46

In part one of this three-part mini-series, we'll explore the captivating life of T.E. Lawrence, the British archaeologist and army officer known as "Lawrence of Arabia." Discover how he fought alongside Arabian tribesmen during World War I in their quest for independence, all while knowing an uncomfortable secret. The early life and interests of T…

1
46: Rangers 1-1 Celtic - Dead Rubber or Defining Draw? 21:39

4M ago21:39

21:39

Rangers and Celtic draw at Ibrox - but can we learn anything from this game? Should James Forrest still be at Celtic, and will Barry actually get his first home win?! Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok @bhoybearpod Email us - [email protected] SSP Media

1
My greatest regret! Talent is being missed, and the ambition is too small! (Special mini-episode with Henry McLeish) 14:17

4M ago14:17

14:17

- “Our footballing ambition is too small!” - “We need regional academies everywhere from Stranraer to Orkney!" - “My greatest regret from the McLeish report” 🌳 Link to all our socials: https://linktr.ee/ImprovingScottishFootball 🙋🏻‍♂️ For partnership enquiries: [email protected] Henry McLeish joins Kieran for this special mini-epi…

1
45: Celtic win 55 - but is it boring? What next for Rangers? 41:36

4M ago41:36

41:36

Celtic beat Dundee Utd 5-0 away, win their 55th league title and 120th major honour, making Brendan Rodgers the most successful living Celtic manager and James Forrest their most decorated player. But is this just boring now? Meanwhile, Rangers draw with St Mirren as a potential takeover draws closer - but does that guarantee success? All that and …

1
#543 | From Temples to Duty-Free | The Ancient History of Modern Perfume 22:26

4M ago22:26

22:26

In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating history of perfume, tracing its journey from Ancient Mesopotamia to its artistic development in France. We'll learn how scents have evolved from practical uses to luxury items, and discover the intriguing world of “grands nez,” the master perfumers who dedicate their lives to crafting these aromatic ma…

1
What's going on with Scotland's Under-21s? 40:39

5M ago40:39

40:39

- Why is nobody talking about the Under-21s? - What are the pros and cons of young Scots moving to English academies? - How do we entice dual nationals to declare for Scotland? 🌳 Link to all our socials: https://linktr.ee/ImprovingScottishFootball 🙋🏻‍♂️ For partnership enquiries: [email protected] Kieran is joined by Owen Brown fr…

1
#540 | Mustafa Kemal Atatürk | The Father of Modern Turkey 28:22

5M ago28:22

28:22

In this episode, we'll explore the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Discover how he turned a fragmented resistance into a national movement, established a secular republic from imperial ruins, and why he’s still called "The Father of the Turks." Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's famous 36-hour speech, Nutuk Decline and Fall of the…

1
[Bonus] The 2008 Financial Crisis and Housing Bubble – Past Perfect Continuous (English Grammar Lesson) 13:05

5M ago13:05

13:05

In this episode of Thinking in English, host Tom Wilkinson explores the past perfect continuous tense, using the 2008 financial crisis as a case study. The episode covers the grammar rules and structures of the past perfect continuous tense, emphasising its usage to describe actions that started in the past, continued for some time, and were ongoin…

1
44: Is Jack Butland overrated? Dessers rescues Rangers at Dens & Daizen hits 30 goals 32:43

5M ago32:43

32:43

The lads are back after a thriller at Dens park sees the maligned Cyriel Dessers rescue Rangers, and Daizen Maeda continues his ridiculous form with his 30th goal of the season as Celtic respond to their derby defeat. Follow us @bhoybearpod on Tiktok and Instagram, where the debate lives on!By SSP Media

1
#538 | Percy Fawcett | The Real Life Indiana Jones 23:38

5M ago23:38

23:38

In this episode, we'll explore the incredible story of Percy Fawcett, a daring British explorer who vanished in the Amazon rainforest while searching for the mythical city he called "Z." Often compared to a real-life Indiana Jones, Fawcett's life was filled with adventure, mystery, and a relentless quest to prove the Amazon held secrets beyond our …

1
The Freezer Door [Easy Stories In English] 24:17

6M ago24:17

24:17

A woman has a loving husband and children, and she's great at her job. So why is she sad? One day, she opens the freezer door and sees the way into another world. If she goes, she will lose her husband and children. But could she be happy there? Go to EasyStoriesInEnglish.com/Door for the full transcript. Level: Beginner. Genre: Philosophical. Voca…

1
43: Celtic 2-3 Rangers! Old Firm / Glasgow Derby Debrief 34:09

6M ago34:09

34:09

Barry's bears embarrass Brendan's bhoys! One team is 13 points behind in a title race, has lost four home games in a row, but are feeling pretty good about themselves, whereas the other is on for a treble but are hurting a lot this week. Crazy what a week can do in football!By SSP Media

1
The Right to Dream philosophy – A blueprint for Scottish football? 49:04

6M ago49:04

49:04

- What makes 'Right to Dream' so successful? - How does Belgian football constantly punch above its weight? - Why is Belgium moving to an 18-team league? 🌳 Link to all our socials: https://linktr.ee/ImprovingScottishFootball 🙋🏻‍♂️ For partnership enquiries: [email protected] Kieran is joined by Frazer Robertson, 1st Team Coach at …

1
#536 | A Brief History of Mercenaries 24:49

6M ago24:49

24:49

In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating history of mercenaries, taking you from the era of Italian condottieri to the modern day with groups like Blackwater and Wagner. You'll learn how these soldiers for hire have evolved, the reasons nations use or avoid them, and their impact on 21st-century warfare. What are mercenaries? Definition and h…

1
42: Barry's Bubble Bursts, Celtic strolling to title, and Daizen Maeda for Barcelona?! 45:54

6M ago45:54

45:54

It's Bhoy vs Bear vs Mediator for a long overdue episode! It gets a bit feisty ahead of the next Old Firm and the mood around the two camps couldn't be more different.By SSP Media

1
Scottish vs. Foreign Managers: A Crisis or a New Era? 49:35

6M ago49:35

49:35

Kieran is joined by former Professional Player Jamie Mitchell and coach and analyst John Walker to discuss what’s happened to Scottish managers. There are fewer Scottish managers than ever before in the Scottish Premiership, and there’s only David Moyes in the English Premier League (in 2011 there were 7!) - What are the benefits of bringing in for…

1
#533 | The Science of Leap Years 22:11

6M ago22:11

22:11

Leap years help keep our calendars in sync with Earth's orbit, but have you ever wondered why we need them? In this episode, we explore the history of leap years, covering early human calendars, Julius Caesar's reforms, and the adjustments introduced by Pope Gregory XIII. Why do we need leap years? Earth's orbit and the solar year explained How the…

1
Academy to First Team: Why the Gap Still Exists & How to Fix It 41:57

7M ago41:57

41:57

Kieran is joined by Keith Lasley, Chief Operating Officer at St Mirren. They discuss: - What are the key signs of a modern, progressive club? - How important is a club strategy - and should the SPFL have one too? - How is St Mirren bringing the academy closer to the first team? Get in touch: ⁠[email protected]⁠ ⁠https://twitter.co…

1
#530 | Vladimir Putin: Russia’s Modern Tsar 26:09

7M ago26:09

26:09

In this episode, we will explore Vladimir Putin's unlikely journey from a rat-catching streetfighter to the modern-day tsar of Russia. We'll look at his rise to power, some of the accusations about what it took to get there, the key decisions that have defined his 25-year rule, and question how history will remember his legacy. Vladimir Putin's ear…

1
The 3 things that elite young players have in common 35:11

7M ago35:11

35:11

Kieran is joined by Uefa A License holder Blair Munn, who's worked with some of Scotland's top talent, including Lennon Miller and Gabe Forsyth. They discuss: - Are we entering a golden generation for young Scottish footballers? - What does it take to make it to the top? - Why is there still a lack of young Scots playing in the Premiership? Get in …

1
#528 | The Stanford Prison Experiment 22:42

7M ago22:42

22:42

In this episode, we'll learn about the notorious Stanford Prison Experiment, known for revealing human behaviour's dark side in simulated prison conditions. We'll discuss its purpose, dramatic events, the ethical concerns it raised, and question what it truly tells us about human nature. Purpose of the Stanford Prison Experiment Recruitment and set…

1
41: Return of the Bear 35:05

7M ago35:05

35:05

Scotty is back, as the lads discuss Celtic and Rangers' best and worst ever January signings, the prospect of the Women's teams moving to the WSL, and the changing atmospheres at Parkhead and Ibrox.By SSP Media

1
Should it be this tough to get out of the Scottish Championship? 47:46

7M ago47:46

47:46

Kieran is joined by Falkirk CEO Jamie Swinney and coach and analyst John Walker to delve into the Scottish Championship. They discuss: - How has Falkirk gone from a mid-table League 1 side to Premiership contenders? - Do the promotion play-offs need to be restructured? - Were Premiership clubs right to ban artificial pitches? Get in touch: ⁠improvi…

1
#526 | Space Mining | The Future or Science Fiction? 24:49

8M ago24:49

24:49

Space mining sounds like something out of science fiction, but could it soon become reality? In this episode, we'll explore how the idea of mining asteroids for valuable minerals might work, the challenges it faces, and whether it truly could be a better alternative to mining on Earth. Discovery of asteroid 16 Psyche and its immense value Asteroids…

1
40: Rangers 'Hibs it', Rodgers reacts, and KT - too big a risk? 30:51

8M ago30:51

30:51

Happy New Year! Rangers trounce Celtic 3-0 at Ibrox but fail to capitalize as they draw in the capital. Celtic bounce back by beating St Mirren, but Brendan Rodgers calls out the support in an extraordinary press conference... And, as whispers about a KT return grow - is it too big a risk to take?By SSP Media

1
The top 10 Scottish prospects to watch out for in 2025 58:32

8M ago58:32

58:32

Ben Doak, Lennon Miller, Max Johnston, James Wilson, Gabe Forsyth… the list goes on. There are many fantastic young Scottish players breaking through in the SPFL and abroad. But which players make our top 10 ? And who will be number one? Kieran is joined by football scout Kai Watson and coach and analyst John Walker for a positive New Year podcast …

1
#523 | The Mysterious World of Secret Societies 22:47

8M ago22:47

22:47

In this episode, we'll enter the shadowy realm of secret societies. We'll uncover the mysterious history, influence, and rituals of three infamous groups: Skull and Bones, the Knights Templar, and the Freemasons. From elite university clubs to a medieval order with financial power, we'll learn what makes these societies so compelling. The concept o…

1
#521 | “A Heartbeat Away” | The Role Of The US Vice President 21:14

9M ago21:14

21:14

In this episode, we will explore the evolving role of the Vice President of the United States. We will examine the unique pathway this role offers to the presidency and discuss why the current Vice President may be one of the most influential in history. Role of the Vice President in U.S. politics Historical pathway from Vice President to President…

1
39: Celtic 3-3 Rangers (5-4 pens) - LIVE WATCHALONG HIGHLIGHTS 35:28

9M ago35:28

35:28

6 goals, countless bookings, a penalty shootout... one winner. The Bhoy, the Bear and the mediator could barely speak by the end of this one. Celtic overtake Rangers' trophy haul total with one of the most incredible games of football we have ever watched. Here's the raw, live reactions as a Celtic fan and Rangers fan watch the game together in the…

1
#518 | Atoms For Peace | The Early Years of Nuclear Power 19:08

9M ago19:08

19:08

In part one of our mini-series on nuclear energy, we'll explore the origins of nuclear power as it emerged alongside nuclear weapons. Learn how President Eisenhower envisioned "Atoms for Peace" and how political events like the 1973 oil crisis propelled nuclear energy into the spotlight. Development of nuclear power and weapons together Eisenhower'…

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