Global News Podcast

BBC World Service
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51 snips
Apr 6, 2025 • 32min

Le Pen vows to fight political ban

Christine Ockrent, a seasoned French journalist, shares her insights on Marine Le Pen's contentious political landscape. Le Pen, facing an embezzlement conviction, claims it's a 'witch hunt' as she maintains her presidential ambitions. Ockrent explores her strategy to garner broader support while dissecting the impact of social media on political discourse. The conversation also touches on significant international issues, including a critical incident involving the Israeli military and rising civilian preparedness in response to geopolitical tensions.
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Apr 5, 2025 • 29min

The Happy Pod: Saving Thailand's street dogs

Discover a remarkable man in Thailand dedicating his life to rescuing stray dogs, highlighting the struggle and care for these animals. Delight in a heartwarming story of childhood sweethearts reuniting after 85 years. Be inspired by Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel, who is breaking barriers in college basketball with just one arm, showcasing resilience and representation. The podcast also touches on sustainable solutions to water scarcity and innovative community ways to process grief through creative gatherings.
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35 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 40min

The Ukraine War: Your Questions Answered

Vitaly Shevchenko, host of Ukrainecast, offers an insightful Ukrainian perspective on the ongoing conflict. Olga Robinson, a Russia expert at BBC Verify, delves into the complexities of Russian politics affecting the war. Frank Gardner, BBC's security correspondent, assesses the security landscape in Europe. They explore prospects for peace, the dynamics of Russian conscription, and Trump's foreign relations strategy. Additionally, the discussion critiques the role of the Orthodox Church in conflict resolution and the challenges of Ukraine's air defense.
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Mar 29, 2025 • 27min

The Happy Pod: Football while fasting -- Egypt's Ramadan pastime

Each Ramadan, Egypt transforms into a lively football hub, where players unite despite fasting. The podcast highlights the joy of community street tournaments and shares personal stories of players. It also explores how beavers in the Czech Republic are reshaping ecosystems while saving taxpayers money. Additionally, the growing popularity of darts in Africa is showcased, emphasizing its educational impact and empowering stories. Finally, a correspondent sheds light on the importance of accurate reporting during significant events.
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12 snips
Mar 22, 2025 • 27min

The Happy Pod: Tea for two - sharing a brew with a stranger

Discover how chatting with strangers over tea can boost happiness and foster connections. Hear about a unique kindness experiment that reveals the generosity of strangers and its positive effects on communities. Dive into the Finnish concept of 'sisu' and how embracing challenges leads to resilience. Learn about an inspiring journey toward empowerment through social media and innovative solutions to tackle microplastic pollution. Finally, explore a conservation story focused on a retirement home for endangered African penguins.
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Mar 15, 2025 • 27min

The Happy Pod: A gift that reopened the world

Zach and Cambry's inspiring journey leads to the creation of The Rig, a game-changing off-road wheelchair that transforms lives. Discover the uplifting stories of a 92-year-old singer finding renewed fame and a young climbing prodigy, Veronica, chasing her Olympic dreams. Dive into the world of alternative therapies that help individuals overcome chronic pain, while music emerges as a powerful tool for healing. Plus, King Charles shares his eclectic musical tastes, adding a delightful twist to the royal narrative.
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6 snips
Mar 8, 2025 • 29min

The Happy Pod: Getting engaged in the ashes of our home

Stephanie Rayner shares her poignant story of getting engaged amidst the destruction of the LA fires, where her ring emerged miraculously from the ashes of their home. The couple's journey showcases resilience, love, and the importance of community support during trying times. In addition, heartwarming tales unfold, like a lost rabbit toy's adventure at an airport, uniting a young owner through the kindness of strangers. These narratives emphasize the strength of human connections and the power of hope in the face of adversity.
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37 snips
Mar 7, 2025 • 35min

The Ukraine War: What happens next?

Vitaly Shevchenko, a presenter for Ukrainecast, provides expert analysis on Ukraine's current predicament. Joining him are James Waterhouse, a BBC correspondent reporting from Kyiv, and Lise Doucet, the BBC’s chief international correspondent. They discuss the implications of U.S. military aid halting, the precarious state of Ukrainian defense, and the complexities of potential peace negotiations. The conversation delves into Trump’s unpredictable policies and their effects on markets, offering insights into the geopolitical landscape as Ukraine seeks stability.
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5 snips
Mar 1, 2025 • 28min

The Happy Pod: Learning to play the guitar one handed

Discover the inspirational journey of a musician teaching himself to play guitar with one arm after a stroke, showcasing incredible resilience. Dive into the world of quadrobics, a quirky fitness trend, and explore the cultural significance of a canteen in a funeral home known for its delicious noodles. Celebrate 105 years of life with Hilda Jackson, whose rave birthday bash highlights the joy of community and connection. The stories intertwine themes of empowerment, transformation, and the vibrant spirit of life.
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6 snips
Feb 22, 2025 • 27min

The Happy Pod: The 'terrible' artist in high demand

Discover an artist who calls his work 'terrible,' yet gains worldwide commissions, showcasing the beauty in unconventional creativity. A performer brings joy to elderly residents, proving laughter can bridge generations. Journey with a refugee turned robotics innovator, blending childhood dreams with impactful technology. Learn how a student navigated financial hurdles to attend NYU, and celebrate the debut of Cambodian snowboarders at the Asian Winter Games, alongside the intriguing discovery of King Thutmose II's long-lost tomb.

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