Money Made Human Podcast

Debbie Robinson – Chief Executive Officer, OurCoop (#24)

Episode 24 of the Money Made Human podcast features Debbie Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of OurCoop. A passionate advocate for the co-operative movement, Debbie has spent her career championing the values of cooperation, community, and member ownership. As CEO of OurCoop, she leads one of the UK's largest independent co-operative societies, serving communities across multiple sectors while remaining focused on delivering value for members and customers. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Debbie about her career journey, the people who have shaped her values, and the influence of a family deeply connected to the co-operative movement. She reflects on the positive impact of her upbringing, particularly the role her mother played in shaping her outlook on life and leadership. The conversation explores the power of cooperation to create meaningful change, both locally and globally, and why understanding members and customers remains at the heart of the co-operative model. Debbie also shares her thoughts on the future of the movement, the importance of creating opportunity, and why her personal philosophy is to "make every day count". Key topics in this episode include: * Debbie's career journey and leadership at OurCoop * The influence of family and the co-operative movement throughout her life * The opportunities created through cooperation at both a local and global level * Prosperity, growth, and what success should look like for communities * Debbie's hopes for the future of the co-operative movement * The importance of family and the support of her "home team" Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, cooperation, community, and the values that can help create a better future for everyone.

Alan Rough MBE – Scottish Former Professional Footballer & Football Broadcaster (#23)

Episode 23 of the Money Made Human podcast features Alan Rough MBE, Scottish former professional footballer and football broadcaster. Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s most recognisable goalkeepers, Alan enjoyed an outstanding playing career that saw him represent his country on the international stage and become a firm favourite with football supporters across Scotland. Best known for his time at Partick Thistle, he remains one of the club’s most celebrated players and a respected voice within the game today. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Alan about his journey into football, the influence of his parents, and the experiences that shaped a career spanning some of the most memorable moments in Scottish football. He reflects on representing Scotland at three World Cups, including his memories of the 1978 tournament in Argentina, and shares his thoughts on how the game has evolved over the decades. Key topics in this episode include: * Alan’s journey into football and goalkeeping * The influence of his parents and early life experiences * How football has changed over the years * The importance of saving and planning for the future as a professional footballer * His current role with PLZ Soccer and continued involvement in the game * The importance of staying active and maintaining good health Join us for an entertaining and insightful conversation with one of Scottish football’s most recognisable figures, reflecting on a remarkable career and the lessons learned along the way.

Hugh Gaffney – Former MP, Author of Auchengeich & Founding Member of 1st Class Credit Union (#22)

In episode 22 of the Money Made Human podcast, we’re joined by Hugh Gaffney, former MP, author of Auchengeich, and founding member of 1st Class Credit Union. Host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Hugh about a life shaped by service, community, and a deep commitment to helping others. From growing up in a family of eight siblings to his career with Royal Mail, Hugh reflects on the experiences that led him into trade union activism and later into politics. The conversation also explores Hugh’s powerful work in preserving the history of the Auchengeich mining disaster, where 47 men lost their lives in 1959, and the lasting impact it had on families and communities. He also shares personal reflections on loss, including the passing of his wife Anne, and the values that continue to guide him. Key topics in this episode include: * Hugh’s upbringing in a large family and early influences * His career with Royal Mail and work with the Communication Workers Union * His journey from councillor to MP * The importance of credit unions and payroll deduction schemes * The story of the Auchengeich mining disaster and his book * Personal reflections on grief, family, and motivation to help others We hope you enjoy listening to Hughie’s story as much as we did!

Paul Sweeney – Candidate in the Scottish Parliamentary Election for MSP (#21)

Episode 21 of the Money Made Human podcast features Paul Sweeney, candidate in the Scottish Parliamentary election and former MSP. Before entering politics, Paul worked in the shipbuilding industry, an experience that continues to shape his views on industry, communities, and public service. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Paul about his five years in the Scottish Parliament, his upbringing in Glasgow, and the influence of his parents’ values, trade union roots, and strong sense of service to others. The conversation explores Paul’s passion for shipbuilding and Scotland’s industrial heritage, the importance of investing in communities and skilled industries, and the role credit unions can play in supporting people across Scotland. Paul also reflects on his support for the Coalition of Credit Unions during discussions around the withdrawal of the Family Protection Plan, as well as the impact recent events in Glasgow have had on the city and its communities. Key topics in this episode include: * Paul’s journey from shipbuilding into politics * His five years serving in the Scottish Parliament * The influence of his upbringing, family values, and trade union roots * The importance of maintaining Scotland’s industrial heritage * Recent events in Glasgow and their impact on local communities * The role and importance of credit unions within society Join us for an insightful conversation about industry, community, public service, and the values that shape leadership.

Dermot O'Neill – Chief Executive, Scottish League of Credit Unions (#20)

Dermot O’Neill is the Chief Executive of the Scottish League of Credit Unions (SLCU), a role he has held for the past 15 years. The SLCU supports 26 of Scotland’s remaining 72 credit unions, helping them to become and remain Compliant, Sustainable and Cooperative. Dermot’s credit union journey began in 2002 when he was appointed General Manager of Taxi Trade Credit Union, where he spent eight years. He then moved into the community credit union sector as Development Manager at Ayrshire Credit Union, before taking up his current leadership role at the SLCU. A passionate advocate for the credit union movement, Dermot is a champion of community finance and the people-focused values that underpin it. He believes strongly in the power of cooperative finance to strengthen communities and improve lives. Outside of credit union life, Dermot prioritises family time, enjoys outdoor adventures and plays football; to the best of his (self-confessed) very average ability. Key topics in this episode include: * What the Scottish League of Credit Unions is and how it supports its members * The six key pillars of the SLCU, including guidance, education, networking and representation * Why it's important for credit unions to have this type of connection and support * Dermot’s personal journey and leadership within the credit union movement * How credit unions have adapted and evolved in recent years * Dermot’s hopes for the future of the SLCU and the wider credit union sector Join us for an engaging conversation with someone at the heart of Scotland’s credit union movement. This episode was recorded in October 2025.