The Global Story
BBC World Service
The world order is shifting by the day — old alliances are fraying, autocrats are on the rise, and global trade is in turmoil. A lot of this turbulence can be traced back to decisions made in the US, but America isn’t just a cause of upheaval abroad—it’s also a symptom of the same forces disrupting things across the world.
That’s where The Global Story comes in. From September 2025, this daily podcast from the BBC tackles the news at this exact intersection: where the world meets America.
With one host in DC, one host in London, and the backing of the best international newsroom in the world, this podcast tells the intertwined story of America and the world – how each shapes the other, daily.
The Global Story. Where the world meets America.
That’s where The Global Story comes in. From September 2025, this daily podcast from the BBC tackles the news at this exact intersection: where the world meets America.
With one host in DC, one host in London, and the backing of the best international newsroom in the world, this podcast tells the intertwined story of America and the world – how each shapes the other, daily.
The Global Story. Where the world meets America.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 15, 2024 • 26min
America and... the war in Ukraine
James Waterhouse, BBC's Ukraine correspondent, and Will Vernon, who reports on Ukraine, Russia, and D.C., provide gripping insights into the U.S. aid landscape in the wake of the Ukraine conflict. They discuss how domestic political challenges are affecting military support, particularly as the election approaches. The candidates’ varying positions on Ukraine support reveal potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy. They also explore the implications of a changing geopolitical landscape and the role of Russia's allies amid this ongoing crisis.
Oct 14, 2024 • 29min
A week on the open Atlantic, hoping to reach Europe
Blanca Munoz, a BBC journalist reporting from Senegal, and Efrem Gebreab, an Africa Eye journalist, provide an eye-opening look into the perilous journey of migrants like Mouhamed attempting the treacherous crossing to the Canary Islands. They discuss the socio-economic challenges driving this migration, including the impact of Senegal's political landscape and the lure of European opportunities. Their insights paint a vivid picture of hope and desperation as they articulate the emotional toll and risks faced by those seeking a better life.
Oct 12, 2024 • 27min
Path to the Presidency: Political storms
Hurricane Milton has left Florida reeling and raised questions about political responses to natural disasters. The discussion highlights the misinformation surrounding FEMA's relief efforts and the challenges faced by families impacted by the storm. As international tensions simmer in the Middle East, voter priorities in the U.S. are shifting. The podcast explores how military families' opinions may sway election outcomes and scrutinizes the current administration's accountability on foreign policy issues.
Oct 11, 2024 • 25min
Hurricane Milton: Destruction, politics, and misinformation
Tom Bateman, a seasoned BBC correspondent based in Orlando, provides firsthand insights into the chaos following Hurricane Milton, which has devastated communities across Florida. Joined by Marco Silva, a BBC Verify reporter, they investigate the rampant misinformation surrounding the hurricane and its connection to election narratives. The duo delves into conspiracy theories about weather manipulation and explores how political agendas exploit disaster recovery efforts, exposing the profound impact of these false claims on public perception and voter sentiment.
Oct 10, 2024 • 25min
Three weeks that changed life in Lebanon
Rami Ruhayem, a BBC Arabic correspondent based in Beirut, shares his insights on the intensifying conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. He discusses the harrowing impact on Lebanese civilians, with over 1.2 million displaced and thousands killed. Ruhayem highlights the dual reality of war and resilience within Lebanon, revealing how public sentiment towards Hezbollah is shifting amid the invasion. He also delves into the historical trauma that now shapes the collective psyche, leaving the nation grappling with fear and uncertainty.
Oct 9, 2024 • 27min
How vulnerable are the undersea cables connecting us all?
Nicole Starosielski, a UC Berkeley professor and author of The Undersea Network, and Frank Gardner, BBC's security correspondent, delve into the hidden world of undersea cables that underpin global communication. They reveal how these fragile cables, vital for internet connectivity, often suffer accidental damage and are vulnerable to sabotage amid geopolitical tensions. Notably, they discuss the havoc wreaked during Tonga’s volcanic eruption on communications and the urgent need for better protection against rising threats. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of our underwater lifelines!
Oct 8, 2024 • 28min
America and... China
Laura Bicker, the BBC's China correspondent, and Michelle Fleury, the BBC's business correspondent, dive into the tumultuous U.S.-China relationship. They unpack the historical context and current tensions, exploring how the upcoming U.S. elections could reshape diplomacy. The hosts discuss economic rivalries, impressive trade deficits, and the contrasting strategies between Trump and Harris. They also touch on Taiwan's status and military alliances in Asia, highlighting how these topics factor into future Sino-American relations.
Oct 7, 2024 • 27min
'The violence is getting out of hand': Crime grips Cuba's streets
In this engaging discussion, Will Grant, BBC correspondent specializing in Cuba, provides a keen analysis of the island's deteriorating safety and rising crime rates. He reveals how economic struggles, blackouts, and food shortages are fueling a mass exodus. The dialogue examines the stark contrast between government assurances and public fears regarding safety. Personal stories illustrate the impact of gang violence on everyday Cubans, painting a grim picture of life amid escalating challenges and a changing societal landscape.
Oct 6, 2024 • 29min
The Conflict: Israel and Gaza one year on
Lise Doucet, BBC's chief international correspondent, is joined by international editor Jeremy Bowen and correspondent Rushdi Abualouf for a poignant discussion on the Israel-Gaza conflict one year on. They reflect on the escalation of violence, the human cost of the war, and the heartbreaking stories of families torn apart by conflict. The conversation delves into the broader implications for the region, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and the persistent hope for resolution amidst the turmoil.
Oct 5, 2024 • 26min
Path to the Presidency: October surprises
Caitríona Perry, a BBC World Service journalist, and Sumi Somaskanda, the BBC's chief presenter, dive into the turbulent waters leading up to the US presidential election. They analyze how catastrophic flooding and escalating Middle East tensions could serve as 'October surprises' that shift the political landscape. The duo also explores the implications of recent vice presidential debates and the crucial role Latino voters will play, along with evolving Republican strategies on hot-button issues.
