The Documentary Podcast
BBC World Service
A window into our world, through in-depth storytelling from the BBC. Investigating, reporting and uncovering true stories from everywhere. Award-winning journalism, unheard voices, amazing culture and global issues. From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the frontline of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.Every week, we take you into the minds of the world's most creative people and explore personal approaches to spirituality. And we bring together people from around the globe to discuss how news stories are affecting their lives. A new episode most days, all year round. From our BBC World Service teams at: Assignment, Heart and Soul, In the Studio, OS Conversations and The Fifth Floor.
Episodes
Mentioned books
14 snips
Jan 11, 2026 • 49min
Looking for No Man's Land
Join a captivating quest to uncover if there's a patch of Earth untouched by humans. Experts argue that pristine places likely don't exist, as humans have been altering landscapes for thousands of years. The search shifts underwater, revealing shocking plastic pollution even in the deepest ocean trenches. Hydrothermal vents, once thought to be isolated, still show signs of human impact, while subglacial lakes in Antarctica yield life, raising questions about pristine ecosystems. This exploration reflects on our relationship with the planet and the hope that remains.
14 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 26min
Taraneh: Iran's defiant actress
In this insightful discussion, Pegah Ahangarani, a documentary filmmaker, shares her journey of filming Taraneh Alidoosti's story in secret, highlighting their friendship and the powerful message of defiance against Iran's oppressive regime. Sarbas Nazari, a BBC Monitoring contributor, analyzes the significance of Alidoosti's career and her bold protests amid the Women, Life, Freedom movement. Additionally, Navin Singh Khadka reports on the devastating effects of Cyclone Sinyar on the Tapanuli orangutan population, intertwining human crises with environmental collapse.
19 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 24min
Life in Venezuela
In this thought-provoking discussion, guests from Caracas share their harrowing experiences. Andreas, an engineer, details daily struggles with shortages while highlighting the beauty of Venezuela. Lawyer Vanessa opens up about the chilling effects of censorship and fear in society. Anna, a company employee, speaks on safety concerns and resilience against colectivos. Law student William reflects on economic challenges driving many to flee. Finally, Barbara, now in Texas, reveals her longing for home and family ties. Together, they paint a vivid picture of life amid hardship.
Jan 9, 2026 • 26min
Living side by side: Morocco’s Jews and Muslims
Issam, raised in a mixed Muslim-Jewish family in Rabat, shares his journey exploring his Jewish identity. Zohor Rehihil, a Muslim curator, discusses the importance of preserving Jewish heritage in Morocco through education and cultural artifacts. Maxim Karouchi, a Jewish Moroccan singer, emphasizes music's power to unite diverse communities. Abdu el-Kakaobi provides historical insights on Jewish-Muslim coexistence and the significance of shared traditions like Mimuna. The conversation highlights the harmony found in Morocco amidst regional tensions.
Jan 8, 2026 • 26min
Returned to sender
Franz Pickhardt, a former German navy signalman, shares the incredible story of tossing a birthday message in a bottle in 1979, which astonishingly resurfaced after 44 years. Joining him are Alondra, Kevin, and Rosalyn, who tossed their own celebratory messages during their graduation in 2018 from Colegio La Ave Maria in Puerto Rico. As Clint Buffington, the 'Message In a Bottle Hunter,' traces these heartfelt notes, he uncovers the emotional connections reactivated across decades, highlighting the timeless impact of these hidden treasures.
13 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 49min
World Questions - Greenland
Join a captivating discussion with Naya Natanielsen, Greenland's Minister, who champions responsible mining and environmental standards. Louise Elholm provides insights on Denmark's role in Greenland’s quest for self-determination. Kuno Fenker voices concerns over indigenous rights and critical views on independence. Ulrik Pramged delves into the geopolitics of Arctic resources and the challenges of global supply chains. Together, they explore the complexities of mining, independence, and the future of Greenlandic culture and rights.
13 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 37min
Persian poetry and politics
Join Parneon Sadegi, an Iran analyst, as he discusses the intricate relationship between Persian poetry and politics, revealing how leaders leverage poetic imagery for legitimacy. Majid Nusrat, an Afghanistan analyst, sheds light on the role of Persian in Afghanistan and the impact of Taliban restrictions on poetry. Maruf John Ismatrov, a Tajikistan expert, explores the significance of Persian literary traditions across Central Asia. Together, they delve into how poetry serves as a tool for cultural identity, political dissent, and unity amidst repression.
Jan 6, 2026 • 34min
South Africa and the fight against TB
Renée Goliath, a Senior Research Manager at the CIDRI and former pediatric nurse, shares critical insights into South Africa's fight against tuberculosis (TB). She discusses the significant TB burden and the advanced research ecosystem tackling the disease. Renée highlights the impact of U.S. funding withdrawals on local trials, while also addressing the challenges patients face, including stigma and long treatment regimens. The conversation underscores the urgent need for renewed support to ensure continued innovation in TB care and research.
Jan 5, 2026 • 26min
Ismo Leikola
Ismo Leikola, a celebrated Finnish comedian and writer known for his sharp, language-driven humor, shares insights into his journey from university comedy to global recognition as one of the funniest people in the world. He dives into his performance style, emphasizing ad-libbing and humor derived from language quirks. Ismo discusses the importance of avoiding politics to connect with diverse audiences, and reveals how he crafts jokes from everyday observations and theories. With tales from his hometown, he blends personal stories with a deep understanding of comedy's essence.
8 snips
Jan 4, 2026 • 23min
The power of nostalgia and a first kiss
Victoria Gill, a Science Correspondent, dives into the fascinating evolutionary origins of kissing, revealing that it may date back over 21 million years across species. Meanwhile, Marie Tussiama, founder of Archive Ivoir, shares her personal insights on Côte d'Ivoire's 90s–00s aesthetics and the current Y2K revival among Gen Z. They discuss how nostalgia helps us reconnect with the past, why younger generations embrace retro styles, and explore the intriguing behaviors surrounding kissing in both humans and animals.
