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
Aug 14, 2024 • 26min
Ukraine's surprise attack on Russian soil
Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia Editor for BBC Monitoring, and Francis Scarr, a Russia expert, dive into Ukraine's surprising military advancements into Russian territory. They discuss how this bold move could shift the war dynamics in Ukraine’s favor. The guests analyze Putin's response, branding the attack a provocation, and the resulting evacuations in Russia. They also explore the impact of these developments on civilian lives and regional stability, highlighting shifts in military strategy and the implications for future peace negotiations.
Aug 13, 2024 • 25min
US election: Is Kamala cutting through?
Kamala Harris, a rising political force and the expected Democratic nominee, discusses her candidacy and strategies leading up to the upcoming election. She shares insights on crucial polling data and the impact of swing states on her campaign. The conversation delves into her unique positioning within the party, especially in engaging younger voters and communities of color. Additionally, the challenges she faces against Donald Trump's shifting strategies are highlighted, emphasizing the critical role of the upcoming Democratic National Convention in shaping her campaign's future.
Aug 12, 2024 • 25min
Jakarta is sinking. Will building a new capital save it?
Indonesia's plan for a new capital, Nusantara, aims to combat Jakarta's pollution and sinking issues. The ambitious vision includes creating a carbon-neutral metropolis in Borneo's rainforest. However, the project faces significant challenges, from environmental threats to local resistance over displacement concerns. As construction continues, questions arise about whether Nusantara can truly deliver on its eco-friendly promises while ensuring equitable benefits for its diverse population. Can this bold relocation save Jakarta from a watery fate?
Aug 9, 2024 • 24min
Paris 2024: Breaking makes its Olympic debut
Katie Gornall, a seasoned BBC Sport Correspondent, and Zack "Cracker Zacks" Slusser, vice president of Breaking DanceSport for USA Dance, dive into the Olympic debut of breaking. They explore the cultural roots of this vibrant dance form from the South Bronx. The discussion highlights improvisation challenges for dancers and the significance of heritage preservation amid its rise in competitive arenas. Insightful stories from diverse athletes reveal the transformative potential of breaking for future generations.
Aug 8, 2024 • 25min
What's behind the UK riots?
Violent anti-immigration protests erupt across the UK after the tragic stabbing of three young girls raises tensions. Misinformation stirs public outrage, as far-right groups exploit the chaos. The influence of controversial figures like Tommy Robinson adds fuel to the fire. Meanwhile, police struggle to manage the unrest, and government responses draw parallels to past riots. Counter-demonstrations bring hope amid growing societal unrest as communities grapple with the implications of rising extremism.
Aug 7, 2024 • 27min
Kamala Harris picks Tim Walz as her running mate
Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor and former teacher, joins to discuss his selection as Kamala Harris's running mate. He shares insights into the strategies behind their campaign and how he aims to connect with rural working-class voters. The conversation highlights his recent social media jabs at Trump, calling him 'weird', and the GOP's pushback branding him a liberal extremist. The dynamic between the Harris-Walz ticket and Trump's VP pick, J.D. Vance, adds to the unfolding political drama as the 2024 election approaches.
Aug 6, 2024 • 24min
'Unwanted': Australia and disabled migrants
Katy Watson, an Australia correspondent, brings her insightful perspective on the nuanced impact of migration policies on disabled migrants. She shares personal stories of families grappling with restrictive visa regulations that label them as burdens. The discussion highlights the emotional toll of immigration hurdles faced by disabled individuals and the call for policy reforms, emphasizing a nation’s contradiction between valuing diversity and the discriminatory practices that undermine inclusivity. Watson's experiences resonate with a broader narrative of advocacy and hope.
Aug 5, 2024 • 29min
Russia-West prisoner swap: An emotional and diplomatic spectacle
In this engaging discussion, Paul Whelan, a former US Marine imprisoned in Russia, shares his harrowing experience during the recent high-stakes prisoner swap. Journalist Evan Gershkovich provides insight into the risks faced by reporters in Russia. Sarah Rainsford, the BBC's Eastern Europe correspondent, and Gordon Corera, the security correspondent, dive into the emotional toll of such exchanges and the complex negotiations involved. Together, they highlight the personal stories behind the politics, shedding light on the resilience of those fighting for freedom.
Aug 2, 2024 • 26min
Why did Trump turn his back on Project 2025?
Paul Dans, the architect behind Project 2025, shares insights following his recent resignation. He discusses the project’s controversial status as a policy blueprint for a possible second Trump presidency. As Trump distances himself from Project 2025, the implications for his campaign strategy come into play. Dans also highlights the evolving dynamics with the Heritage Foundation and how Democrats are likely to frame the project as a threat to the middle class, shaping voter mobilization ahead of the upcoming election.
Aug 1, 2024 • 25min
Israel, Iran and fears of a wider war in the Middle East
Jeremy Bowen, a seasoned BBC International Editor, and Hugo Bachega, a dedicated BBC Middle East Correspondent, delve into the escalating tensions in the Middle East. They discuss Iran's promise of retaliation for the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and the recent deadly airstrikes near Israel's borders. The conversation explores the volatile dynamics between Israel, Hezbollah, and Hamas, as well as the implications of U.S. support and the precarious state of ceasefire negotiations in the region.
