The Documentary Podcast

Discover the dark side of the tyre recycling industry, where millions of tyres are mismanaged and shipped to illegal plants in India. Follow a team of journalists tracking this hazardous waste and uncover the shocking financial motivations behind the practices. Listen as they confront industry insiders and expose the health risks faced by communities affected by these dangerous pyrolysis operations. The story shines a light on corruption and environmental harm at a global scale.

Mpo Lakashi, a South African journalist, dives into the contentious claims of a so-called 'white genocide' in South Africa. He dissects the misinformation underpinning these narratives and highlights the complexities surrounding farm attacks and land ownership laws. Lakashi discusses how political figures have exploited these fears, impacting diplomatic relations, particularly with the U.S. The conversation also touches on the role of social media in shaping public perception, revealing the deep-seated issues of identity and culture within South Africa.

Saira Baloch, a determined advocate searching for her missing brother, and Maharang Baloch, a doctor fighting enforced disappearances, share their heart-wrenching stories. They discuss the emotional toll on families in Balochistan dealing with state-sanctioned violence. Saira reveals the challenges mothers and daughters endure while seeking justice, while Maharang highlights their resilience amid tragedy. The narratives expose the deep grief surrounding enforced disappearances, shedding light on the struggles and the enduring hope of the women left behind.

Brian D’Souza, also known as Auntie Flo, is a Scottish musician and DJ renowned for fusing field recordings with cutting-edge production. He discusses his innovative practice of biosonification, creating soundscapes from the electrical impulses of plants. Listeners are taken on a heartfelt journey to Goa, where Brian connects with his heritage and family roots. He delves into the rhythms of the natural world, emphasizing how surrendering to nature inspires unique musical interpretations. It's a captivating exploration of sound, culture, and creativity.

Natasha Matyukhina from BBC Monitoring delves into the political landscape of Moldova, a nation caught between pro-Western and pro-Russian influences. She explains the significance of Moldova to Putin, especially with impending elections that may draw Russian interference. The discussion covers Moldova's geographic importance, its tumultuous relationship with Transnistria, and the challenges facing the pro-European ruling party. Additionally, Natasha sheds light on the media dynamics impacting public perception as tensions rise in Eastern Europe.

In the wake of Bashar al-Assad's overthrow, Syrians share their experiences of newfound hope and challenges in a transforming nation. Entrepreneurs describe the revival of tourism and the hospitality industry's resurgence, while artists discuss the re-emergence of cultural expression amid shifting political landscapes. Students reflect on how freedom of speech has reshaped university life, highlighting both constructive dialogues and new tensions. Overall, the stories reveal a resilient society navigating the complexities of change and rebuilding.

In this podcast, Angelina Balau, a young Alawite activist leading the Alawite Project, shares her journey supporting her community in Tripoli. She discusses the dire conditions faced by Alawite refugees fleeing sectarian violence in Syria, revealing harrowing personal stories of escape. The conversation delves into the complexities of Alawite identity, including their unique beliefs and practices, while highlighting ongoing efforts to empower this marginalized community amidst rising fears of ethnic cleansing.

Shaina Oppenheimer, who monitors Israeli and Palestinian news from the Jerusalem bureau, dives into the Israeli government's controversial control over the media landscape. She discusses the implications of Netanyahu's strategies on press freedom, particularly during the Gaza conflict. The conversation reveals how the government's media manipulation shapes public perception and threatens independent journalism. Oppenheimer also highlights growing societal divisions in Israel, raising alarm over proposed reforms that could further compromise media independence.

In a chilling landscape of fear, dissenters in Russia face severe repercussions for opposing the war in Ukraine. Academic Aleksandra Arkhipova embarks on a quest to expose her tormentor, the infamous informer Anna Korobkova. The rise of citizen denunciation echoes historical betrayals, creating a tense atmosphere where safety is compromised. As Arkhipova unravels the threads of Korobkova's identity, the chilling implications of these actions reveal the dangerous interplay between loyalty and betrayal in modern Russia.

In the aftermath of Assad's regime, a mass dismissal of security forces has created a landscape of vulnerability and fear. Personal stories reveal the plight of former soldiers grappling with their pasts, while experts warn of potential insurgency risks reminiscent of Iraq. The podcast examines the moral complexities of accountability and justice for those implicated in war crimes. It explores the delicate balance between reconciliation and ensuring that the innocent are reinstated, highlighting the fragile dynamics within Syria's military and society.