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…
"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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…