Ian Hamilton

EyeCan: Ian Hamilton – BBC broadcaster, journalist, storyteller, guide‑dog wrangler, pottery enthusiast, and all‑round brilliant human.

 

In this episode of EyeCan by Visibility Scotland, hosts Lara and Audrey sit down with the incomparable Ian Hamilton—the instantly recognisable voice and personality from BBC Scotland. Ian takes us on a journey through his life, career, and humour-infused outlook, sharing stories that are equal parts inspiring, surprising, and laugh‑out‑loud funny.

 

Hear how a young Ian fell in love with the magic of late‑night radio, how he accidentally tumbled into television, and why saying “yes” (even when unsure) has been his secret ingredient for a decades‑long media career.

 

From changing a guide dog's name from “Ursula” to “Stella”, to navigating sensitive, high‑impact journalism, to dodging well‑meaning but misguided advice—this episode is full of wisdom wrapped in wit.

 

Ian also reflects on disability, identity, and resilience—sharing the philosophy that has carried him through challenges, discrimination, and unexpected opportunities. He explains the importance of people over places, why inclusive communities matter, and the value of humour in staying grounded.

 

And don’t miss the behind‑the‑scenes stories of his documentaries, his blog “Tales of a Blind Reporter,” his pottery hobby, and what he’s currently working on—plus the guide‑dog training documentary we’ll all be eagerly awaiting.

 

Episode Highlights

“I always said yes.”: Ian explains his belief that saying yes to opportunities (so long as they’re legal and not dangerous!) is the key to breaking into media—and to personal growth.

 

Early days in radio & accidental TV career: From community radio in Lanarkshire to BBC Radio 4 and beyond, Ian shares hilarious and heartfelt memories from his broadcasting beginnings.

 

Guide-dog stories you’ll never forget: Including why he simply could not return home to Lanarkshire with a guide dog named “Ursula.”

 

Creating meaningful storytelling: Ian opens up about the most challenging and most rewarding documentaries he has worked on, especially stories involving disability, sensitivity, and ethics.

 

Life after school for disabled young people: A powerful reflection on the “cliff edge” of support that many face - and why this topic became one of his most important films.

 

Advice for budding journalists (VI or not): From making your own opportunities to ignoring the naysayers - Ian gives real, practical, motivating tips.

 

On disability and identity: Ian, Lara, and Audrey explore why being blind is just one part of who you are - and how sometimes friends forget you’re blind at all (and why that’s a compliment).

 

Humour as survival (& connection): Ian recounts the phone‑in caller who said nobody liked him because he was disabled - and Ian’s unforgettable response.

 

What’s next for Ian: His blog, his ongoing BBC work, future documentaries, and his next guide dog journey.

 

Stay up to date with Visibility Scotland

To learn more or get in touch, visit Visibility Scotland’s website: Visibility Scotland - You don't need sight to have vision.

 

Stay up to date on all our projects by following us on social media:

TikTok: @visibility_scotland

Instagram: @visibilityscotland

Facebook: Visibility Scotland - Facebook

LinkedIn: Visibility Scotland - LinkedIn