Money Made Human Podcast

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.

Ian Byrne – MP for Liverpool West Derby, Co-Founder of Fans Supporting Foodbanks & Hillsborough Survivor (#19)

Episode 19 of the Money Made Human podcast features Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby, Co-Founder of Fans Supporting Foodbanks and Hillsborough Survivor. Ian is a tireless advocate for social justice and co-founded the Right to Food UK Commission in November 2025, an independent body developing a roadmap for legislation aimed at ending hunger in the UK by 2035. He is also the co-founder of Fans Supporting Foodbanks, a charity mobilising football fans to tackle food insecurity in their communities. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Ian about his upbringing in Liverpool, the influence of football and trade unions on his values, and the impact of deindustrialisation on his hometown. They also discuss significant moments such as the Hillsborough Disaster and the resulting Hillsborough Law, and explore the role of credit unions and community organisations in creating positive societal impact. Key topics in this episode include: * Ian’s upbringing in Liverpool and early influences * The role of football and trade unions in shaping his values * The Right to Food UK Commission and its mission to end hunger by 2035 * Fans Supporting Foodbanks and the charity’s work in communities * The Hillsborough Disaster and Hillsborough Law * The societal impact of credit unions Join us for a thoughtful conversation on social justice, community action, and the power of football and cooperative institutions to make a difference.

Andy Walker – Former Professional Footballer & Football Commentator, Pundit and Media Analyst (#18)

In episode 18 of the Money Made Human podcast, we’re joined by Andy Walker, former professional footballer, football commentator, pundit, and media analyst. Before moving into media, Andy enjoyed a successful professional football career spanning over 16 years. He began with Motherwell before moving to Celtic, where he became a key part of the squad and experienced some of the most memorable years of his playing career. Also a Scotland Internationalist, he later played for clubs including Bolton Wanderers, Sheffield United, Hibernian and Ayr United, earning recognition for his goal-scoring ability and consistency throughout his career. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Andy about his journey into professional football, his experiences on and off the pitch, and the role his family played throughout his career. He also reflects on life after football and his transition into media. The conversation explores the realities of football and finances, including the importance of saving and planning for the future, alongside Andy’s perspective on how the game has evolved in the age of social media and increased public scrutiny. Key topics in this episode include: * Andy’s journey into professional football * Reflections on his 16-year playing career, including his time at Celtic * The positive influence of family and experiences of loss and bereavement * Life after playing and his transition into media and commentary * The importance of financial awareness and planning in football * Perspectives on the modern game and the impact of social media Join us for an honest and reflective conversation about football, life beyond the game, and the lessons learned along the way.