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 Trump's new world order, to war in Sudan, to the legacy of football icon Mo Salah, The Documentary investigates major global stories.We delve into social media, take you into the minds of the world's most creative people and explore personal approaches to spirituality. Every week, we also 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, The Fifth Floor and Trending.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 26min
Alexey Seliverstov: Bionic birdsong
In this discussion, Los Angeles-based composer and sound artist Alexey Seliverstov shares his unique approach to blending the sounds of nature with human music. He explains his fascination with birdsong, interpreting it as organic symphonic music that he transforms using innovative techniques, including processing childhood voice recordings into bird-like sounds. Alexey also reveals his plans for a large-scale installation at Harvard, featuring immersive, interactive soundscapes that invite audience participation, showcasing the fluid boundary between natural and artificial sounds.
Oct 12, 2025 • 50min
Brazil's Miracle: an Indigenous disaster
In this discussion, Edmundo Diaz, a lawyer advocating for the Krenak people, highlights the systemic abuses they faced during Brazil's military dictatorship. He shares harrowing stories of cultural erasure and forced displacements, emphasizing the psychological trauma experienced by the Krenak. The recent state apology in 2024 raises questions about forgiveness and justice. Diaz also discusses ongoing legal actions for reparations, as the Krenak strive to restore their identity and land, setting a critical precedent for Indigenous rights across Brazil.
Oct 11, 2025 • 26min
Tackling loneliness in India
Sumedha Pal, a BBC reporter from Delhi, discusses urban loneliness in India, exploring grassroots solutions like home concerts and shared meals to foster community connections. Yuna Ku, a BBC correspondent in South Korea, analyzes the cultural impact of the animated film 'K-pop Demon Hunters,' highlighting its ties to Korean folklore and its resonance with audiences. Lastly, journalist Aliya Nazki reveals the unique architectural style of Kashmiri mosques, tracing their history and materials back to syncretism and local traditions.
Oct 11, 2025 • 23min
Trump and autism: People affected speak out
The podcast tackles President Trump's controversial comments linking Tylenol to autism. Guests share personal stories about the emotional impact of misinformation. They discuss framing autism not as an epidemic but as a lifelong difference that doesn't need curing. Perspectives highlight the discrimination autistic families face and the inequities in diagnosis and services, especially for minority communities. The discussion concludes with a celebration of the unique contributions autistic children make to families and society.
Oct 10, 2025 • 26min
Searching for hope as a hostage in Gaza
The impact of the October 7 attacks resonates through the stories of hostages and their families. Many found solace in faith during their harrowing captivity, with some even adapting prayers to retain their spiritual connection. A former hostage described how his Jewish identity deepened during his 484 days in the tunnels. The emotional struggle of families waiting for loved ones heightens around Jewish holidays. Recent developments, including a ceasefire, offer a glimmer of hope for reunion and healing, as calls for peace continue amidst the ongoing trauma.
Oct 9, 2025 • 37min
Global dancefloor: Saigon
Frank McWeeny heads to the dancefloors of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) to uncover what Vietnamese alternative culture looks and sounds like today. With 70% of the country under 35, young people are the driving force behind a different image of Vietnam, far away from poverty and war. They are asserting their identity through music, fashion and their own take on traditional values. They are changing perceptions of what it means to be Vietnamese in 2025.
We hear from DIY music collective Dismal, forward-thinking underground club The Observatory, and members of the nightlife and fashion scenes.Producer/presenter: Frank McWeeny
Editor: Susan Marling
A Just Radio production
9 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 22min
The biker gang ‘securing’ deadly Gaza aid sites
An investigation uncovers seven members of an anti-Islamic biker gang providing security at Gaza aid sites, linked to a controversial humanitarian foundation. Chaos ensued as gunfire and deaths were reported during aid distributions. The gang's roots, anti-Muslim rhetoric, and connections to military backgrounds are explored. Eyewitness accounts reveal violence near these sites, while high pay and rapid deployment attracted questionable recruits. The implications of their presence raise urgent questions about accountability and the human cost of such operations.
Oct 7, 2025 • 27min
Bolivia’s Cholitas – From Outcasts to Icons
Discover the inspiring journey of cholita women in Bolivia, who are transforming their cultural identity. From dazzling wrestlers who redefine strength and community to fashion designers elevating traditional garments, these women are reclaiming their heritage. The podcast showcases vibrant cultural festivals and empowers stories of overcoming discrimination. Meet trailblazing cholita mountaineers challenging expectations while climbing peaks in stylish polleras. Their resilience highlights ongoing struggles and triumphs in the quest for equality and recognition.
Oct 6, 2025 • 27min
Stephen Jones’ hats: A party on your head
Stephen Jones, a fashion-forward British milliner with a flair for avant-garde designs, shares insights on his creative process and unique inspirations. He discusses the joy of crafting hats that serve as personal statements, influenced by Surrealism and pop culture. Stephen details his innovative design techniques, from paper prototypes to mood boards, and highlights the playful appeal of pieces like the 'Yoga' hat. He reflects on his retrospective at Palais Galliera, the universality of the beret, and the theatricality that hats can embody, making them more than accessories.
Oct 5, 2025 • 50min
Nuclear tensions in the Middle East
In this insightful discussion, Barry Sadeed, a BBC Monitoring contributor, dives into Iran's nuclear history, detailing how its ambitions have evolved since the Shah's era. Shaina Oppenheimer sheds light on Israel's ambiguous nuclear strategy and how it frames the Iranian threat as existential. Florence Dixon explores Saudi Arabia's nuclear aspirations and its strategic shifts, while Nihan Kale examines Turkey's nuclear stance amidst regional tensions. Together, they unravel the intricate web of nuclear politics in the Middle East, reflecting on global security implications.
