
Global News Podcast
The breaking news you need to hear, as it happens.
Hear the most important global stories from the BBC, the most trusted name in international news.
With reporters on the ground in every country, we’re always where the story is. We bring you unparalleled access and exclusive updates that you won’t get anywhere else. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. From Israel-Iran missile strikes, to news from Trump’s White House and Putin’s Kremlin. From the Ukraine War to the Israel-Gaza conflict. From Damascus to Delhi, from Silicon Valley to Singapore, from Washington DC to Wuhan. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Subscribe now and never miss a moment.Also listen to The Happy Pod, every Saturday, for the best global good news.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
Latest episodes

Aug 17, 2024 • 28min
The Happy Pod: Finding love at 89 years old
Discover the heartwarming love story of 87-year-old Bev and 89-year-old Mark, who found companionship at a care home. Their romance proves that love knows no age limits. Celebrate an Olympic marathon runner embracing the joy of participation, even when finishing last. Dive into inspiring tales of resilience, from bridging age gaps through social media to empowering Rwandan women via cheerleading, and marvel at a Bosnian tribute that transforms nature into a stunning Van Gogh artwork.

Aug 15, 2024 • 32min
More than 40,000 killed in Gaza - Hamas
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, with claims of over 40,000 casualties amid ongoing conflicts. In India, public outrage escalates over gender violence following a tragic incident. North Korea reopens for tourism after five years, raising eyebrows globally. Meanwhile, cultural trends emerge with age-blind casting in theater, reflecting changing attitudes toward aging. And as discussions about the possibility of life on Mars heat up, the interconnectedness of pressing global issues becomes ever clearer.

Aug 10, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: Panda pair bring joy to San Diego
Discover the delightful panda pair at the San Diego Zoo, showcasing their unique personalities and importance in conservation. Celebrate Botswana's spirited nationwide party for its first Olympic gold medal. Hear about a groundbreaking all-female café in southern Iraq that defies tradition. Explore Amsterdam's Offline Club, where technology takes a back seat to genuine conversation. Also, find out how the Olympics is supporting breastfeeding and childcare for athletes. Join us for a heartwarming collection of uplifting stories from around the globe!

5 snips
Aug 3, 2024 • 28min
The Happy Pod: The blood test that could spot Alzheimer's early
Dr. Phoebe Marr, a wildlife conservation officer at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, shares exciting breakthroughs in platforms dedicated to platypus breeding research. She discusses the innovative blood test that detects Alzheimer's up to ten years early, paving the way for improved patient care. The conversation also touches on the inspiring story of 50-year-old skateboarder Andy MacDonald as he competes with teens at the Olympics. From animal conservation to groundbreaking health advancements, these narratives shine a light on both human and wildlife resilience.

Jul 28, 2024 • 26min
Bonus: The Global Story - The most contested land in the world?
In this engaging discussion, Tim Whewell, a seasoned BBC Current Affairs journalist, shares insights from his journey through the intensely contested land between the River Jordan and the Mediterranean Sea. He delves into the historical and cultural complexities fueling the ongoing conflict. Tim highlights the intertwined identities of Israeli and Palestinian residents and the challenges they face amidst land disputes. The conversation also addresses differing narratives surrounding pivotal events, revealing the deep emotional impacts on both communities.

Jul 27, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: The surprise star of a US Olympics team
As the Paris Olympics unfold, a therapy dog named Beacon brings emotional support to the USA Gymnastics team, helping athletes cope with stress. A historic first for Arab equestrian events is achieved by a female rider, bridging cultural pride and perseverance. Meanwhile, groundbreaking IVF techniques are being used to protect endangered southern white rhinos. A woman shares her thrilling solo motorcycle journey across Africa, igniting a discussion on adventure and self-discovery. Positive stories around mental health through cultural activities complete this uplifting narrative.

11 snips
Jul 20, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: South Korea's Samba diplomat
Lim Ki-mo, the South Korean ambassador to Brazil, sparked joy during the pandemic by singing Brazilian songs, going viral and even performing at a celebrated Samba club in Rio. He shares his passion for Brazil and the unexpected popularity that followed. The conversation also touches on inspiring athletes on the refugee team gearing up for the Paris Olympics, conservation successes in Cambodia, and the economic benefits of tourism for local communities in Thailand. Plus, quirky insights into how Taylor Swift's concerts generate seismic waves!

Jul 13, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: Inspiring my daughter to donate a kidney
A mother’s kidney donation sparks a heartfelt journey that inspires her daughter to donate as well. Discover the K-pop sensation Big Ocean, artists overcoming challenges with hearing impairments. Relive the golden moments of athletes who shared victory at the Tokyo Olympics. Wild horses make a triumphant return to Kazakhstan after two centuries, thanks to zoo efforts. Innovative farming techniques are revolutionizing drought-resistant agriculture. Plus, hear about schoolchildren bringing a refugee story to life at the Royal Opera House.

Jul 6, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: How kindness made a dream come true
Listener Uta shares how a kind stranger, Harry, helped her achieve her dream of going to University. They discuss the importance of taking chances on strangers and helping others. Also, hear about AI improving crop yields, K-pop stars guiding museum tours, Indonesian women in hijab playing heavy metal, and chimps showing lifelong learning abilities. Plus, a school exam in skateboarding and other heartwarming stories from around the world.

Jun 29, 2024 • 28min
The Happy Pod: A teacher's life-saving gift
A preschool teacher's incredible act of kindness shines as she donates her liver to save her former student, Ezra. Meanwhile, groundbreaking advancements in HIV prevention offer hope with a new drug that requires just two injections a year. The podcast also highlights an inspiring Euro 2024 soccer victory that united a nation, heroic volunteers preserving art during the Ukraine war, and a unique equestrian competition in Finland featuring hobby horses. Finally, it showcases a woman's transformation into a Judy Garland impersonator through her lockdown videos.