Episode 9 of the Money Made Human podcast takes us into the world of professional football with guest Fraser Wishart, Chief Executive of PFA Scotland, the independent trade union for professional footballers across the country. The union has become a strong and respected voice for players in Scotland, working to protect their rights, improve welfare support and promote better standards across the game.

Before moving into leadership, Fraser enjoyed a successful playing career, starting in the '80s. He began with Motherwell and St Mirren before moving to Rangers, where he was part of the squad that won domestic honours. He later played for Hearts and Clydebank, earning recognition for his consistency and professionalism throughout his time in the game. His experience as a player gave him first-hand understanding of the challenges professionals face both on and off the pitch.

That insight now supports his work at PFA Scotland and FIFPRO, where Fraser sits on the Division Europe and Global Board. He has been instrumental in building partnerships that provide players with mental health support, education, and career development opportunities. Through his leadership, PFA Scotland continues to strengthen its influence and ensure that the voices of players remain at the heart of decisions that affect the game in Scotland.

In this episode, Fraser and host Gayle Adnyana explore:

• Fraser’s journey into professional football
• How his parents’ trade union background shaped his path into PFA Scotland
• What PFA Scotland does day-to-day to support players’ rights and welfare
• The growing importance of player wellbeing and how finances, social media and modern pressures influence it
• The need for money awareness in football and helping players prepare for life after the game
• How attitudes toward mental health in football have changed since Fraser’s playing days

Join us for a thoughtful and candid look at the realities behind the game and the support structures players rely on throughout their careers.

The latest episode of the Money Made Human podcast features Caroline Darnbrook, Chief Client Officer at StepChange, the UK’s leading debt advice charity. StepChange provides free, impartial advice and support to help people manage money worries, deal with debt, and build long-term financial resilience.

Caroline leads the charity’s marketing strategy, external affairs, communications, policy, campaigning, and digital teams, as well as developing products and services to meet changing client needs. She shares insights into StepChange's mission, the stigma around debt, and how we can work together to remove barriers to seeking help.

The conversation also explores the common ground between StepChange and credit unions, the importance of saving and financial inclusion, and the support available for those affected by illegal money lending. Caroline reflects on the values that drive her work and her hopes for the future of StepChange and its impact across the UK.

Key topics in this episode include:

 • The history and mission of StepChange

 • Tackling the stigma surrounding debt

 • How StepChange supports individuals on their journey to financial stability

 • The role of credit unions in promoting savings and financial resilience

 • Connections with the Illegal Money Lending Units across the UK

 • Caroline’s personal values, motivations, and hopes for the future

Join us for an open and compassionate discussion about debt, financial wellbeing, and the power of support networks to change lives.

For more information and free, confidential support for anyone struggling with debt, visit the StepChange website, which provides guidance, tools, and access to professional debt advisers: https://www.stepchange.org

In this episode of the Money Made Human podcast, host Gayle Adnyana is joined by Professor Sharon Collard, Research Director of the Personal Finance Research Centre at the University of Bristol. Established in 1998, the Centre focuses on personal and household finances with financial inclusion at its heart. Credit unions have long played a central role in its research, often collaborating with organisations like the Swoboda Research Centre and other mutuals.

Professor Collard discusses the links between health, financial wellbeing, and the effects of gambling harm. She shares her perspective on how credit unions can support members in a changing economic landscape and the importance of engaging young people in the sector’s growth. Along the way, she reflects on her own journey in personal finance research and the values that guide her work.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The origins and mission of the Personal Finance Research Centre
• Research on financial inclusion and the role of credit unions
• The government’s manifesto on doubling the credit union industry and engaging young people
• Findings on the financial impact of gambling and how to support affected individuals 
• Advice on how credit unions can prepare for economic change and support members
• Professor Collard’s own journey, values, and inspirations

Join us for a thoughtful conversation about financial inclusion, the role of credit unions, and the research shaping the future of personal finance.

For more information and free, confidential support for problem gambling in your region, visit the NHS website, which lists various charities and support services available: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/gambling-addiction/

Nick Money, co-founder and a director of the Swoboda Research Centre, joins host Gayle Adnyana on the Money Made Human podcast. Swoboda provides credit unions across the UK and Ireland with the research, ideas, and networks they need to grow, innovate, and better serve their members. 

Founded in 2017 by Nick, Dr Paul A. Jones, and the late Ralph Swoboda, the centre fills a unique gap in the sector, helping credit unions plan for the future and strengthen their impact.

Nick shares his personal journey from the Co-operative Bank in the mid-1990s to his passion for social change and organisational purpose. He reflects on the differences between UK and Irish credit unions, the importance of collaboration, and how research and strategic thinking can help expand and enhance the sector’s influence.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The origins and mission of the Swoboda Research Centre
• How the centre supports credit unions in the UK and Ireland
• Nick’s personal journey, values, and inspirations
• Ideas for growing and strengthening the credit union sector
• The importance of research, networks, and collaboration
• Why credit unions matter to society

Join us for a conversation about innovation, collaboration, and the future of the credit union movement.

In this episode of the Money Made Human podcast, host Gayle Adnyana welcomes Brandee Bickle, Vice President of Governmental Affairs and Executive Projects at Georgia’s Own Credit Union, one of 1st Class Credit Union’s international partners. A lifelong Georgia resident, Brandee brings warmth, insight, and a touch of Southern charm to the conversation!

Brandee shares her journey from growing up in a community banking family to becoming a key leader at Georgia’s Own. She talks about her work in governmental affairs, the importance of agility in a changing financial landscape, and how the credit union’s mission of “Banking on Purpose” guides everything they do.

Together, Gayle and Brandee explore how credit unions in the United States compare to those in the United Kingdom and why embracing the cooperative message is more important than ever.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Brandee’s 25-year journey in Georgia’s credit union industry
• What life and community are like in Atlanta, Georgia
• Insights into governmental affairs and advocacy in the United States
• Differences between credit union usage in the United States and the United Kingdom
• The importance of embracing the cooperative message
• Hopes for the future of Georgia’s Own Credit Union

Join us for an engaging conversation that spans continents, celebrating shared values, community connection, and the global spirit of people helping people.

The Money Made Human podcast was inspired in part by the Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) and Ireland’s deep-rooted credit union culture. Host Gayle Adnyana is joined by ILCU leaders — President Brendan Jenkins, CEO David Malone, Treasurer Dave McCauley (CEO of Donore Credit Union, the oldest credit union in Ireland), and Director Paul Hume, nephew of Nobel Peace Prize winner John Hume.

Together, they explore the ethos of the ILCU — putting members first above all else — and how Ireland’s spirit of community, collegiality, and comradeship has shaped the credit union movement both at home and abroad. The conversation delves into personal values, the importance of collaboration, and hopes for the future of Irish credit unions.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The ILCU's ethos of putting members first and the “human-ness” of the model
• Ireland’s culture of community and the role of credit unions as local hubs
• John Hume’s legacy in both peacebuilding and the credit union movement
• Insights from Dave McCauley on leading the oldest credit union in Ireland
• The importance of collaboration across the credit union sector
• Reflections and hopes for the future of the ILCU

Join us for a conversation about leadership, legacy, and the values that make credit unions a vital force in Irish communities and beyond.

This episode is dedicated to Brendan’s mother, Maura, and Paul’s father, Paddy, and to all parents and grandparents who have shaped our lives.

The Money Made Human podcast continues with a heartfelt conversation with Andy Wright, founding member and former CEO of 1st Class Credit Union. In this episode, the current CEO sits down with Andy for a symbolic “passing of the baton” — celebrating the past, present, and future of the credit union movement.

Andy shares stories from his upbringing, including the influence of his father’s trade union activism and his decades-long career at Royal Mail. He recounts how 1st Class Credit Union began life as the “Glasgow Postal Workers Credit Union,” and how it grew into the thriving organisation it is today.

Beyond his professional journey, Andy reflects on the transition into retirement, finding identity outside of work, and the values that have always guided him. With honesty and humour, he offers encouragement for anyone considering stepping into the world of credit unions: get involved — now is your time.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The origins of 1st Class Credit Union and its growth over the years
• How Andy’s father and his trade union roots shaped his outlook
• Andy’s 25-year career with Royal Mail
• The importance of credit unions as communities of mutual support
• Reflections on retirement and rediscovering self beyond work
• Andy’s advice on tackling imposter syndrome and what he’d tell his younger self

Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and why credit unions remain a vital force for people helping people.

In this special episode of the Money Made Human podcast, host Gayle Adnyana is joined by Cath Wohlers from Stop Loan Sharks England, John Pollock from the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit, and Ryan Evans from Stop Loan Sharks Wales. Together, they uncover the hidden world of loan sharking in the UK and highlight the crucial work being done to protect vulnerable borrowers.

The conversation explores what a loan shark is, who might fall victim in today’s society, and how social media and technology have transformed illegal lending. Cath, John, and Ryan discuss the two main challenges of borrowing from a loan shark—financial hardship and the personal toll it takes—and share practical guidance on the pathways out.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The scale of loan sharking across the UK
• Individual-centred support offered by the illegal money lending units
• Advice for credit unions on opening conversations about safe borrowing
• Legal consequences for loan sharks and the importance of awareness
• The personal values and inspiration driving these frontline professionals
• Reassurance for borrowers that they are not alone

Join us for a thoughtful and human-centred discussion on tackling loan sharking and supporting those caught in cycles of predatory lending.

For more information and free, confidential support in your region, visit:

• Stop Loan Sharks (England): https://www.stoploansharks.co.uk/
• Stop Loan Sharks (Wales): https://www.stoploansharkswales.co.uk/
• Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit: https://stopillegallending.co.uk/
• Northern Ireland PSNI Illegal Money Lending Advice: https://www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/advice-and-information/illegal-money-lending

Thank you for tuning in to the very first episode of the Money Made Human podcast! Your host, Gayle Adnyana, welcomes Michael Lawrence, Chief Executive of the Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA) and Chair of the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU), the global peak body representing the credit union movement.

Michael shares insights from his extensive 40-year career in the financial sector, including a stint in Glasgow, the home of 1st Class Credit Union, and discusses his current role in leading the global credit union movement. He emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence, empathy, and compassion in leadership, and explains the enduring value of mutuality—people helping people.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Michael’s role within the World Council of Credit Unions and his hopes for making a lasting impact
• The global credit union movement and growth in the sector
• Upcoming events, including the next World Council Forum in Sydney, Australia, in 2026, and reflections on the 2024 WOCCU conference
• The role of credit unions in Australia’s housing market and home lending
• The pathway ahead for credit unions, including advocacy with international standard-setting bodies
• A fun “Would You Rather: Australian edition” segment

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on how credit unions are shaping the future of banking while remaining true to the principle of 'people helping people'.

Watch the video Gayle shared with Michael during the interview: https://youtube.com/shorts/KbO-vfkgI3E?feature=shared

On the 10th episode of the Money Made Human podcast, host Gayle Adnyana is joined by Dr Jenn Glinski, Economic Abuse Specialist and National Policy Lead for Economic Abuse at Scottish Women’s Aid, and Judy Ferguson, National Trainer at Scottish Women’s Aid. Established in 1976, Scottish Women’s Aid is the leading organisation in Scotland working to prevent domestic abuse and improve responses and support for survivors across the country.

Jenn and Judy discuss the evolving landscape of domestic abuse, including the impact of social media and digital platforms, and the importance of recognising financial abuse within the broader context of economic abuse. They share practical insights on how individuals, organisations, and financial institutions can support survivors, and the role of education and specialist training in creating safer communities.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The origins and mission of Scottish Women’s Aid
• The UN Women's 16 Days of Activism campaign and tackling digital violence
• Understanding financial and economic abuse
• How credit unions and financial institutions can support victims
• The importance of education and specialist training
• Jenn and Judy’s personal journeys, values, and passion for this work

Join us for a thoughtful conversation about preventing abuse, supporting survivors, and the role financial institutions can play in creating safer communities.

If you or someone you know needs help or support, you can find information on services and how to reach out through the Women’s Aid website in your region:

• Scotland: https://womensaid.scot/
• England: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/
• Wales: https://www.welshwomensaid.org.uk/
• Northern Ireland: https://www.womensaidni.org

Helplines:

• 24 Hour Scottish Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline for anyone in Scotland: 0800 027 1234
• 24 Hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline for Women: 0808 2000 247
• Men’s Advice Line: 0808 8010 327
• LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428

Episode 11 of the Money Made Human podcast features Reverend Malcolm Anderson, Minister of Religion at Blantyre Congregational Church and Chair of the Hamilton District Foodbank and the Hamilton Churches Drop-In Centre.

In this episode, host Gayle Adnyana speaks with Malcolm about his journey into ministry and community leadership, and the motivations behind establishing the Hamilton District Foodbank and the Hamilton Churches Drop-In Centre. Drawing on years of grassroots experience, Malcolm shares powerful insights into the role of community spirit in addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges.

The conversation also explores wider social issues, including the Scottish Government’s objective to eradicate child poverty, the impact of other initiatives such as Fans Supporting Foodbanks, and how trusted community spaces like football clubs and credit unions can act as vital points of support for people facing hardship.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The origins and impact of the Hamilton District Foodbank and the Hamilton Churches Drop-In Centre
• Community spirit and the role it plays in tackling poverty and inequality
• What individuals and organisations can do to support their local foodbanks
• The role of drop-in centres and the challenges faced during COVID-19
• How credit unions can support communities by providing safer access to money
• Malcolm’s hopes for the future of the foodbank and community support services

Join us for a thoughtful and grounded conversation about compassion, community action, and the practical ways we can all help support people in need.

For more information on the Hamilton District Foodbank and the Hamilton Churches Drop-In Centre:

• Hamilton District Foodbank: https://hamiltondistrict.foodbank.org.uk/
• Hamilton Churches Drop-In Centre: https://www.facebook.com/hamiltondropincentre/

To find a Trussell Trust foodbank in your local area, visit:

https://www.trussell.org.uk/emergency-food/find-a-foodbank

In Episode 12 of the Money Made Human podcast, we welcome Nicola Reed, Director of Client Services at Cruse Scotland, the nation’s expert in bereavement counselling, listening services, information, advice, and training. For over 60 years, the charity has supported bereaved adults, children, and young people across Scotland. Together with a 200-strong team of compassionate, committed and caring volunteers, Cruse Scotland offers hope when the future feels uncertain.

In this episode, host Gayle Adnyana speaks with Nicola about the realities of grief and bereavement, why loss can be so difficult to navigate, and what meaningful support looks like for individuals and families at different stages of grief. The conversation also explores the often overlooked financial impact of death and the importance of compassionate, informed support during life’s most challenging moments.

Nicola also shares her own journey to Cruse Scotland, including her 20-year career as a Chartered Accountant, the values shaped by her upbringing, and how those experiences continue to influence her work today.

Key topics in this episode include:

• What Cruse Scotland does and who they support
• Why grief and bereavement are so complex and personal
• What support from Cruse Scotland looks like in practice
• The role and motivation of Cruse Scotland’s volunteers
• The charity’s mission to create a more compassionate Scotland
• The financial impact of death and why it matters

Join us for a thoughtful and compassionate conversation about grief, humanity, and the importance of support when it’s needed most.

If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, support is available, and you don’t have to face it alone. To find out more about support in your region, visit:

• Scotland: https://www.crusescotland.org.uk
• England: https://www.cruse.org.uk
• Wales: https://heiw.nhs.wales/workforce/workforce-wellbeing/bereavement/
• Northern Ireland: https://bereaved.hscni.net/

Episode 13 of the Money Made Human podcast features Katie Murray, Group Chief Financial Officer of NatWest Group.

Katie is a Chartered Accountant with over 30 years' experience in financial services and accounting. She was appointed Group CFO of NatWest Group in January 2019, following senior roles within the Group as Director of Finance and Deputy CFO.

In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Katie about her decades-long career, from her upbringing in Glasgow to her studies in Accountancy at what is now Glasgow Caledonian University. They also explore how banks and credit unions can coexist and complement each other in serving their communities.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Katie’s early life in Glasgow and the influence of her parents’ accounting background
• Her professional journey through Alexander Sloan, KPMG, Old Mutual, and into senior leadership at NatWest Group
• What her day-to-day role as Group CFO involves, and her biggest career learnings
• Katie’s commitment to supporting gender equality and increasing diversity in business leadership
• Her work on tackling climate change and supporting the UK's transition to net zero
• The importance of money confidence, financial literacy, and empowering young people through NatWest Group's new youth education programme, Thrive

Join us for an inspiring conversation about career development, financial leadership, and equipping the next generation to take control of their money and their future.

Episode 16 of the Money Made Human podcast features Michael Byrne, Chief Executive Officer of Core Credit Union.

Core Credit Union is one of Ireland’s newly established “Super Credit Unions”, formed through the merger of seven standalone credit unions serving the Dun Laoghaire–Rathdown communities of Shankill, Ballybrack, Dun Laoghaire, Dalkey, Sallynoggin, Carrickbrennan and Foxrock.

In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Michael about his 20-year journey in the credit union sector, his background in accountancy, and how his personal and professional experiences led him into community finance. He also reflects on the strong culture of mutual support in Ireland and the vital role credit unions have played in helping communities access fair and ethical financial services.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Michael’s career journey and how he came to work in the credit union sector
• The history and formation of Core Credit Union
• The role credit unions have played in supporting communities across Ireland
• Ireland’s culture of community and people helping people
• The influence of Michael’s upbringing and the values that guide his work
• The future vision for Core Credit Union and its members

Join us for an insightful conversation about leadership, community finance, and the enduring role of credit unions in supporting people at every stage of life.

Episode 15 of the Money Made Human podcast features Michael Devlin, Chair and Project Lead at PFA Scotland, the independent trade union supporting footballers across Scotland.

In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Michael about his 16-year professional football career and his journey from player to Chair and now Project Lead at PFA Scotland. He shares insights into the role of football in society and how his lived experience shapes his approach to supporting players through the union.

The conversation explores the importance of partnerships with trusted financial institutions such as 1st Class Credit Union to support players’ financial wellbeing. Michael also discusses the misconceptions and pressures footballers face, particularly in the social media era, and reflects on the connection between football, identity, and mental health.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Michael’s journey as a professional footballer and transition into PFA Scotland
• His family’s trade union roots and how they influenced his career path
• The importance of PFA Scotland and its role in supporting players
• Partnering with trusted financial institutions to protect footballers and improve financial literacy
• Addressing misconceptions and pressures faced by footballers, including the impact of football on identity
• Michael’s passion for mental health awareness, his personal values, and his hopes for the future

Join us for an insightful and refreshing conversation with someone actively involved in football, both on and off the pitch.

In episode 14 of the Money Made Human podcast, we shine a spotlight on Glasgow, home of 1st Class Credit Union, with Dr Stuart Patrick CBE, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce.

Founded over 240 years ago, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce is one of the oldest chambers in the world and continues to play a vital role in shaping the city’s economic future. In this episode, host Gayle Lloyd speaks with Dr Patrick about the Chamber’s history, its purpose today, and how it continues to evolve to support businesses across the region.

The conversation explores Glasgow’s growing financial services landscape, the importance of local universities and colleges in developing a strong talent pipeline, and the role of collaboration in building a thriving city. Dr Patrick also reflects on the values that have shaped his career, from studying at the University of Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde, to qualifying as a Chartered Accountant at EY, and eventually leading the Chamber.

Key topics in this episode include:

• The history of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and its role today
• How Glasgow has overcome major challenges, from the 2008 financial crash to COVID-19
• What members can expect from joining the Chamber
• The ways credit unions and the Chamber can support each other and their communities
• Dr Patrick’s career journey and the values that guide his leadership
• What lies ahead for Glasgow over the next few years

Join us for an insightful conversation about Glasgow’s past, present, and future, and the partnerships driving the city’scontinued success.

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/.

Susie Heywood is not representing the views of Public Health Scotland.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!