This Is Scotland with The Scots Magazine
Scottish historian Ally Heather and bestselling cookbook author Coinneach MacLeod, The Hebridean Baker, host This Is Scotland - a weekly podcast exploring the people, places, traditions and ideas that shape modern Scotland.
Each episode blends history, culture, geography, humour and personal storytelling to uncover what makes Scotland unique: from island life and folklore to food, heritage and the changing face of the nation today.
Produced by The Scots Magazine, the world's oldest magazine still in publication, first launched in 1739, the podcast builds on nearly three centuries of celebrating Scotland's people, places and culture, bringing those stories to life in a fresh and engaging way.
Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.
Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com
Find out more:
The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.com
Gallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scot
Follow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod
Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeod
Produced by Rachel McConachie
Edited by Beth McHugh
Music by Paper Rifles
Episodes

Jun 15, 2026
Jun 15, 2026
47 min
Why doesn't Scotland have an official national anthem? In this episode of This is Scotland, Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, explore the story behind Flower of Scotland, Scotland the Brave and the debate over what song best represents the nation.
They also share their favourite Scottish road trips, from island adventures to spectacular Highland routes, before turning their attention across the Atlantic to uncover Scotland's remarkable influence on the United States. From American presidents with Scottish ancestry to Scottish-named towns across the US, they reveal the enduring links between the two countries.
Along the way, expect plenty of laughs, surprising stories, listener challenges and a lesson in how to wish America a happy 250th birthday in Gaelic.
Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.
Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com
Find out more:The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.comGallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scotFollow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod
Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeodProduced by Rachel McConachieEdited by Beth McHughMusic by Paper Rifles

Jun 11, 2026
Jun 11, 2026
29 min
The listener Q&A edition of This is Scotland sees hosts Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, the Hebridean Baker, tackle your questions on everything from Paisley patterns and shortbread traditions to the Lewis-Harris island rivalry, favourite lochs and Hebridean folklore.
Whether you live in Scotland, have Scottish roots, or simply love the country, This Is Scotland is your place to feel connected to the real Scotland.
Join the conversation at podcast@scotsmagazine.com
Find out more:The Scots Magazine: www.scotsmagazine.comGallivant Scotland: www.gallivant.scotFollow us on Instagram for BTS content: @thisisscotlandpod
Hosted by Ally Heather & Coinneach MacLeodProduced by Rachel McConachieEdited by Beth McHughMusic by Paper Rifles

Jun 8, 2026
Jun 8, 2026
47 min
Welcome to the first episode of This is Scotland.
Join Ally Heather and Coinneach MacLeod, The Hebridean Baker, as they explore the stories, symbols and surprising truths that make Scotland unique.
Why was Scotland's worst World Cup performance one of its most memorable? Which off-pitch Scottish football achievement we should be really proud of? Is Scottish money really legal tender? And when should you wear a kilt?
Along the way, Coinneach reveals the surprising story behind him helping design the Scotland national team's badge, while the cheery hosts tackle some of Scotland's biggest debates - including the enduring battle between Glasgow and Edinburgh to be the best Scottish city.
From football folklore and national identity to island secrets, unexpected history and a healthy dose of myth-busting, this is Scotland as you've never heard it before. Fàilte!
Have a question about Scotland's history, culture, food, language or places? Send it in and it could feature in one of our weekly Q&A episodes: podcast@scotsmagazine.com
New episodes every Monday, with listener Q&As every Thursday.@thisisscotlandpod

Jun 3, 2026
Jun 3, 2026
1 min
Listen in for a taster of what's to come - first episode out on Monday June 8!







