LISTEN AGAIN: Diana Gabaldon and the story of Outlander
- S12E15
- 41:50
- July 22nd 2026
This summer, we’re celebrating the best of Scottish books and authors. To mark the occasion, we’re re-releasing a gem from a previous season of Love Scotland featuring Outlander author Diana Gabaldon.
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Jackie Bird is joined by author Diana Gabaldon to discuss her best-selling books, its TV adaptation, and how the Outlander effect has shaped global perceptions of Scotland.
Outlander tells the story of a time-travelling nurse from the 20th century who falls in love with an 18th century Highland warrior. The early books span several places now cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, including Culross, Falkland Palace, and Culloden.
In this episode, Diana reveals the origins of the Outlander story, her visceral reactions to visiting Culloden herself, and her first thoughts on the new series of the popular TV adaptation which begins airing on 16 June.
Plus, she reveals some secrets from the future of the franchise, including the next book instalment.
To find out more about some of the places mentioned in this episode of Love Scotland, click here.
Love Scotland
Love Scotland is a podcast series from the National Trust for Scotland.
From coastlines to castles, art to architecture, wildlife to wilderness, the National Trust for Scotland cares for and protects some of Scotland's most significant places and spaces, allowing them to be enjoyed today while protecting them for future generations.
Hosted by TV star and expert broadcaster Jackie Bird, and featuring experts and enthusiasts from all walks of life, each episode delves deep into the detail of Scotland’s history, its wildlife and its landscapes.
You can find out more about the National Trust for Scotland's work and how to support them at http://www.nts.org.uk.
Love Scotland is produced by Think, Big Light and Demus Productions on behalf of the National Trust for Scotland.
Meet the Host
Scottish journalist and broadcaster, Jackie Bird is familiar to many Scots at home and abroad from her time as a BBC Reporting Scotland news anchor. She has been the host of BBC Scotland’s Hogmanay Live, as well Scotland’s Children in Need coverage, as well as a wide range of documentaries.
Jackie is passionate about the stories behind Scotland’s history and heritage, and she shares the National Trust for Scotland’s drive to bring a love of Scotland to life.