Actress Daniela Nardini, best known for This Life, joins Marcus Railton for a candid chat. She reflects on the fame brought by This Life, and the culture in Britain at that time, and why the role both opened doors and narrowed expectations.

She discusses creating art during lockdown, and a major career shift into training as a CBT therapist, meaning she stresses less about her acting career. She speaks openly about grief, family, breast cancer, mental health, for both men and women, and returning from London to Glasgow and Largs. The episode also touches on motherhood, relationships, creativity, and redefining success as fulfilment, and calmness and connection in the modern world.

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In this warm and engaging chat, actor Alison O’Donnell—known as Tosh in the BBC drama Shetland—joins Marcus Railton to talk about the twists and turns of her life and career. Alison reflects on growing up in Motherwell, briefly attempting a law degree, and ultimately following her passion for acting. She shares honest stories about the realities of early career life in London: constant house moves, temp jobs, and even working in a law firm’s basement while Shetland was broadcasting on TV.

Alison discusses how the show has evolved over the years, from Douglas Henshall’s era to its new chapter with Ashley Jensen, and why Shetland’s landscape and community remain the show’s beating heart. She speaks warmly about her family’s connection to the islands—her children have grown up visiting, and Shetland now feels like a second home. They ask why has the show endured?

The conversation also delves into parenting through the pandemic, the challenges of raising young children in isolation, and the balancing act of two creative careers. Alison talks about her partnership with her long‑term partner, and how they navigate work, childcare, and creative ambition together.

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In this episode of the ScotsCare Podcast, Marcus Railton sits down with Scots poet and social media phenomenon Len Pennie for an open conversation.

Len reflects on a pivotal 2025 – from launching poyums annaw to navigating personal healing and mental health. She shares insights into anxiety, explaining how she manages nerves on stage and why showing vulnerability can be an act of strength.

A passionate champion of the Scots language, Len discusses dialects, identity and why celebrating linguistic diversity matters. She talks about accessibility in poetry and how social media has democratised the art form, making space for new voices and younger audiences.

Len also speaks bravely about her experience of domestic abuse, how writing became a way to reclaim her voice, and why she continues to advocate for survivors. The episode features a powerful reading of her poem “Honey”, offering a moving example of her raw, rhythmic and emotionally incisive work.

This thoughtful conversation explores creativity, resilience, language, and the role poetry can play in helping us understand the most difficult parts of life.

If you have suffered or are suffering from domestic abuse:

For women, who would like some support, please call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 for residents in England. https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk

If you are in Scotland please call 0800 027 1234. https://www.sdafmh.org.uk/en/

If you are a man affected by domestic abuse, please call the Respect Men’s Advice Line on 0800 8010327. https://mensadviceline.org.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.