Tartan Trials

Tartan Trials with Alexander Young | Trailer

Welcome to Tartan Trials — the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of Scotland’s most iconic places, people, and experiences.
Hosted by Alexander Young, this series dives into the stories you don’t usually hear — from the stage lights of the Pavilion Theatre to the hidden collections inside the Riverside Museum, and even into the high-energy world of Scottish wrestling. Each episode features candid conversations with the people who live and breathe these spaces, revealing what really goes on behind the curtain, behind the glass… and sometimes behind the ropes.
Episode 1 goes behind the scenes of the world famous Barrowlands! 
Expect laughs, unexpected stories, and exclusive insights — from how massive trains are moved into museums, to the emotional journey of stepping into the wrestling ring, to the chaos and comedy of live theatre. 
Whether it’s culture, performance, history, or pure entertainment—Tartan Trials brings you closer to the action, one story at a time.
👉 Hit play, follow and step inside the experience.

Tartan Trials: Scottish Wrestler & Promoter “Ravie” Davie

In this episode of Tartan Trials, Alexander Young sits down with Scottish wrestler and promoter “Ravie” Davie to talk about his journey into wrestling, from finding comfort in it as a child to performing on some of the biggest stages in the country. Davie opens up about building wrestling shows in Glasgow, opening a grassroots wrestling school, wrestling internationally, and why Scottish wrestling is on the rise again. It’s an honest, funny, and passionate look behind the ropes of modern Scottish wrestling.
Short Episode Highlights
How wrestling helped Davey cope with personal loss
Why Glasgow crowds are so important to wrestling
Early days of running wrestling shows after lockdown
Painful in‑ring moments and lessons learned
The creation and growth of the wrestling school
Big career moments including wrestling at the Hydro
Wrestling internationally, including time in Japan
Pride in taking a Scottish character worldwide
The future of Scottish wrestling
What fans can expect from live wrestling shows
 

Tartan Trials: Tales from the Barrowlands

Step inside the beating heart of Glasgow with this unforgettable episode of Tartan Trials as host Alexander Young sits down with Barrowlands legend Billy Coyle—market trader, music insider, and living archive of the Barras. From selling wrestling figures to rubbing shoulders with icons like David Bowie, Robbie Williams, Oasis, Blur, and Radiohead, Billy shares hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes jaw‑dropping stories from over 25 years at one of the world’s most iconic venues.
Expect wild gig memories, behind‑the‑scenes tales of wrestling at the Barras, the truth about the Barrowlands Hall of Fame, and why artists and fans alike keep coming back. It’s a love letter to Glasgow’s culture, its people, and a venue that has seen it all.
Key highlights include:
David Bowie, Robbie Williams, and legendary Barras moments
What makes the Barrowlands unlike any other venue on earth
Wrestling, riots, sell‑out gigs, and pure Glasgow humour
The Barrowlands Hall of Fame and how legends earn their place
Why the Barras remains a must‑visit cultural treasure

Tartan Trials: Liam Dolan | Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow

Step behind the curtain of Glasgow’s iconic Pavilion Theatre in this lively episode of Tartan Trials! Host Alexander sits down with performer Liam Dolan for a fast-paced, laugh-filled chat about life on stage, the magic of pantomime, and the unforgettable moments that happen when the lights go up.
From hilarious backstage mishaps (yes—there’s shaving foam involved) to the art of crafting a hit panto, Liam shares insider secrets, favourite roles, and what truly makes the Pavilion special—the electric connection with its audience. Plus, get an exclusive tease of this year’s production and hear what it takes to keep crowds coming back year after year.
Highlights include:
Why the Pavilion audience is “part of the cast”
Behind-the-scenes chaos and comedy gold moments
How pantomime scripts come to life (and evolve!)
Favourite roles, dream performances, and career highlights
A sneak peek at Goldilocks and the Three… Bonnie Bears!
The emotional magic of live theatre that only happens once
Whether you're a theatre lover or just in it for the laughs, this episode delivers pure, “dead brilliant” entertainment.

Tartan Trials: Glasgow Science Centre

In this episode of Tartan Trials, host Alexander Young finds out more about the Glasgow Science Centre and chats with Sheena, a Science Learning Coordinator, about how science is brought to life through hands‑on exhibits, immersive experiences, and community projects. From the secrets of the Glasgow Tower, to inspiring young people into STEM and making science inclusive for everyone, this episode explores how learning, curiosity, and fun come together on the banks of the Clyde.
Episode Highlights
How Glasgow Science Centre makes science fun for all ages
Hands‑on exhibits that kids (and adults) love
Rotating exhibits & touring science experiences
Making science inclusive and accessible for communities
Inspiring young people into STEM careers
Secrets of the Glasgow Tower and how it actually turns
Community projects with real social impact
Dream exhibit idea: fixing, reusing & sustainability
MAX, the Planetarium & mind‑blowing moments
Why visitors leave wanting to come back
 
 

Tartan Trials: Riverside Museum

In this episode of Tartan Trials, Alexander Young chats with Neil from the Riverside Museum about the stories behind one of Glasgow’s most iconic museums. From fossilised plants and historic vehicles to how enormous trains are moved into the building, Neil explains how collections are preserved, curated, and brought to life. The conversation explores Glasgow’s transport heritage, hidden stories behind everyday objects, and why the Riverside Museum offers far more than a traditional transport collection.
Short Episode Highlights
The oldest item in the museum and why it matters
How historic vehicles are preserved and maintained
Dream additions to the collection, including motorsport
Why most museum objects are kept behind the scenes
How curators decide what goes on display
The story behind the recreated old Glasgow street
Unique Glasgow-built ships and rare exhibits
The challenges of moving trains, trams, and large vehicles indoors
Surprising personal stories linked to ordinary objects
What first-time visitors should expect from the museum