Money Made Human Podcast

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.

Susie Heywood – Suicide Prevention Implementation Lead, Suicide Prevention Scotland (#17)

Episode 17 of the Money Made Human podcast features Susie Heywood, Suicide Prevention Implementation Lead at Suicide Prevention Scotland. Suicide Prevention Scotland is a community of people and organisations working together to deliver Creating Hope Together, the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint ten-year suicide prevention strategy. Their mission is to prevent suicide by building a collaborative network that places partnership, learning, and innovation at the heart of its delivery model. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Susie about her role within Suicide Prevention Scotland and the collective effort required to make meaningful progress. The conversation explores the concept of “liveability” and the links between financial insecurity, job insecurity, and suicide, drawing on research from organisations such as Samaritans. Key topics in this episode include: * The role of Suicide Prevention Scotland and the Creating Hope Together strategy * Susie’s work as Suicide Prevention Implementation Lead * The importance of collaboration across sectors * The concept of “liveability” and why it matters * Susie’s book "Challenging Gender Stereotypes in the Early Years" * Her hopes for the future of suicide prevention in Scotland This episode features sensitive themes and topics. If you are affected by any of the conversation, links to available support are included below. We are trying to make money more human, so be kind to yourself as you go forward. Thanks for listening. For more information and free, confidential support for suicidal thoughts in your region, visit the NHS website, which lists various charities and support services available: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/help-for-suicidal-thoughts/ [https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/help-for-suicidal-thoughts/]. Susie Heywood is not representing the views of Public Health Scotland.