Episode 1:
In this episode of Conversations about Alcohol, our podcast host and general practitioner Dr Rachel Phillips sits down with two leading specialists, Dr Alastair MacGilchrist OBE and Dr Peter Rice, to explore the evolving landscape of alcohol-related harms in Scotland. Together, they unpack the history of SHAAP (Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems), discuss the public health policies that have shaped Scotland’s approach to alcohol harm reduction, and reflect on the role of evidence-based advocacy in influencing change.
Aimed at medical professionals, this conversation offers a relaxed yet insightful look into how clinical practice, policy, and public health intersect to tackle one of Scotland’s most pressing health challenges.
Episode 2:
Relational Injury, Trauma and Addiction
In this episode of Conversations about Alcohol, our podcast host and GP Dr Rachel Phillips is joined by Dr Adam Burley, Clinical Psychologist and Professional Lead at the Rivers Centre in Edinburgh – NHS Lothian’s specialist service for people affected by trauma. Together, they explore the complex relationship between psychological trauma and alcohol dependency, shedding light on how unresolved trauma can both drive problematic drinking behaviours but also affect someone’s ability to access and accept help. The conversation also introduces the concept of “dependency phobia” among healthcare professionals – an often overlooked barrier to seeking support. This insightful discussion offers medical professionals a deeper understanding of the psychosocial roots of addiction, the importance of trauma-informed care, and the urgent need to challenge stigma within clinical settings.
Episode 3:
Alcohol-Related Brain Damage (ARBD)
In this episode of Conversations about Alcohol, our podcast host and general practitioner Dr Rachel Phillips speaks with Dr Claire Gordon, Acute Medical Consultant, and Dr Stephen Smith, Senior Clinical Psychologist, who work together at Milestone – Edinburgh’s specialist in-patient service for Alcohol-Related Brain Damage (ARBD). They break down what ARBD is, how it develops through chronic alcohol use, and why early recognition matters in primary care. You’ll learn who’s most vulnerable, how to spot the signs, and how multidisciplinary support can lead to meaningful recovery. A must-listen for anyone preparing to support patients with alcohol-related cognitive impairment – with clinical insight and a key message that brain function can recover if patients stop drinking.
Episode 4:
Recovery (Part 1) with Dr David McCartney
In this episode, our podcast host and GP Dr Rachel Phillips is joined by Dr David McCartney, addiction specialist and former Clinical Lead at the Lothians & Edinburgh Abstinence Programme (LEAP). Together, they explore the therapeutic community model used at LEAP, diving into the neuroscience of addiction, the challenges of early recovery, and the vital role of recovery capital in sustaining long-term change. Dr McCartney also shares insights on the transformative power of mutual aid and why GPs play a crucial role in identifying and supporting patients with substance use disorders.
Episode 4, part 2:
Recovery (Part 2) with Dr David McCartney
In this episode, our podcast host and GP Dr Rachel Phillips is joined by Dr David McCartney, addiction specialist and former Clinical Lead at the Lothians & Edinburgh Abstinence Programme (LEAP).
By sharing his lived experience, Dr McCartney aims to challenge the stigma that health professionals often carry towards their patients and themselves. This honest conversation opens up vital discussions around the realities of early recovery and the unequal access to treatment and support.
Episode 5:
In this episode, podcast host and GP Dr Rachel Phillips is joined by Maree Todd MSP, Scottish Government Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy and Sport.
Maree outlines her work to tackle the harms caused by alcohol and drugs in Scotland and reflects on her family’s experiences of alcohol misuse and offers hopeful stories of her mum and dad’s recoveries. We are grateful to Maree for sharing these personal stories with us and for her ongoing work to tackle drug and alcohol harms in her ministerial role.
Episode 6:
In this episode, podcast host and GP Dr Rachel Phillips is joined by Katriona Paterson, clinical nurse manager with a special interest in mental health and substance use. Katriona discusses the evidence and research behind consultation styles for helping patients with alcohol misuse problems.