Welcome to the 50th episode of Rubbish Talk! This is a milestone we couldn’t have reached without you, our loyal listeners. For this special episode, we’ve shaken things up: instead of hosting an external guest, our co-host Jane Bond steps into the interviewer’s seat to ask our host, Alasdair Meldrum, all about the podcast’s journey, standout moments, and hopes for the future.
We also have a great introduction from one of our listeners and past guests from Episode 9,
Jim Brown from Optimum Eco Group. Jim reflects on his experience with Rubbish Talk and why he believes this podcast continues to make a difference in the waste management sector.
Episode Highlights
In this episode, Jane dives into:
The most surprising lessons Alasdair has learned after 50 episodes.
Memorable guests and their unique contributions to the show.
The incredible effort it takes to bring Rubbish Talk to life.
What lies ahead for the next 50 episodes.
As always, there’s a touch of humour, some great career insights, and Alasdair’s hopes for a more engaged public and responsible producers in waste management.
Don’t miss Alasdair’s reflections on how the waste industry continues to evolve, and his favourite slang, learned from guests!
A Look Back at 50 Episodes
Most Surprising Lesson?
“Every episode taught me something new—often about guests I thought I knew well! The diversity of paths into the waste industry is amazing.”
Memorable Moments?
“From stories about radioactive cat litter to career reflections from retired professionals, each episode has offered unique insights.”
Advice for Episode 1 Alasdair?
“Keep it simple, stay consistent, and don’t overthink it. Oh, and invest in better microphones sooner!”
Hopes for the Podcast’s Future?
“To reach beyond the waste sector, engage the public, and inspire action for better waste management.”
Message to Listeners?
“This podcast is for the sector. Please like, share, and comment to help us grow our audience!”
Thank You for 50 Episodes!
We couldn’t have reached this milestone without the incredible support of our listeners, guests, and the wider waste management community. Here’s to the next 50 episodes of insightful conversations, career journeys, and, of course, a touch of humour!
Stay Connected
Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube
Email: hello@rubbishtalk.co.uk
Albion News
Sharing Scottish Expertise in Waste Management
Albion was thrilled to host a delegation from Bosnia-Herzegovina as part of the British Council’s Responsive Democracy Fellowship Programme, supported by the UK Government. This initiative focuses on empowering professionals from diverse sectors to address Bosnia and Herzegovina’s pressing waste management challenges.
Despite short notice, Albion and RMAS delivered a comprehensive programme including training sessions on Scotland’s waste practices, a visit to the Scottish Parliament, and site visits to J & M Murdoch & Son Ltd, Optimum Eco Group, and Restructa Ltd. Delegates also participated in a tailored workshop on waste strategies and concluded their visit with East Lothian Council, gaining both operational and policy-level insights. We wish them every success in advancing waste management reforms!
Resourcing Scotland Conference 2024
Last week, the Resourcing Scotland Conference 2024 brought together a vibrant mix of waste sector professionals, creating a real buzz. Alasdair started the event by setting the scene and delivering a presentation on Scotland’s Waste Data and Performance. We have a slightly extended version of this on YouTube with presentation slides and an audio only version on Rubbish Talk – we would love to hear your feedback on our YouTube channel!
Alasdair Meldrum followed by co-hosting an engaging early careers session with
Sheila Best (Ep. 24), emphasizing the importance of initiative and collaboration in building a successful career in waste management. This session will be released as a special Rubbish Talk podcast episode next Thursday.
The conference featured many familiar faces from past episodes of Rubbish Talk, including:
Laura Tainsh (Ep. 4), Simon Glen (Ep. 7 & 28), Jenny Grant (Ep. 8), David Balmer (Ep.21), Pam Walker (Ep. 22), Colin Forshaw (Ep. 23), Duncan Simpson (Ep. 32), and John Ferguson (Ep. 37).
The event concluded with a drink’s reception, offering plenty of opportunities for networking and discussions.
Key themes from the conference included the urgent need for public engagement, education, and resource allocation to address the sector’s challenges. Reflecting on the event, Alasdair noted: “You’ll never have enough funds—so it’s about starting small, working together, and building from there.”
The conference was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired to tackle the waste sector’s shared challenges!
Join the Albion Strava Club Challenge!
It is easy to do:
Download the Strava App
Find and Join the Rubbish Talk Club
Track your activities on Strava
These will automatically by recorded under the Rubbish Talk Club
Attention to all Amazon Podcast Listeners!
We’re excited to share that Rubbish Talk is now available on Amazon Prime! If you enjoy listening on this platform, we’d love for you to check us out there. If there are any other platforms where you’d like to hear our podcast and we’re not available yet, please let us know. We appreciate your support!
We would love feedback from our listeners!
We are always eager for guest suggestions, general feedback as well as spreading the word about Rubbish Talk to friends, family, colleagues and others to help us reach a wider audience.
Upcoming Training Courses!
2 Day REHIS – Working with Waste Management Legislation Course 
Tuesday 10th – Wednesday 11th December 2024
Have you had a look at our Tik Tok Account yet?
We have recently introduced a fortnightly video called “Meet the Team Monday” where we interview our staff and to find out their job roles, favourite part about their job, favourite/funny memory and a “which colleague is most likely to…” question to add some humour. Make sure to follow us and check out our videos.
Help us spread the word about the Rubbish Talk Podcast!
Your support helps us reach a wider audience and continue to provide valuable content on waste management and sustainability.
Additionally, if you have any guest suggestions or topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes, we’d love to hear from you!
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your ideas and recommendations. Together, let’s make a positive impact in the waste management community. Thank you for your support!