The Documentary Podcast
BBC World Service
Hear the voices at the heart of global stories. Where curious minds can uncover hidden truths and make sense of the world. The best of documentary storytelling from the BBC World Service.
From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the front line of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.
Each week we dive into the minds of the world’s most creative people, take personal journeys into spirituality and connect people from across the globe to share how news stories are shaping their lives.
From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the front line of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.
Each week we dive into the minds of the world’s most creative people, take personal journeys into spirituality and connect people from across the globe to share how news stories are shaping their lives.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 1, 2021 • 50min
BBC correspondents' look ahead
Dive into global predictions for 2021 with insights on Biden's inauguration, vaccine challenges, and economic recovery. Explore COVID-19 impacts worldwide, personal pandemic stories, Navalny's return, and Xi's influence. Discover India's farmer protests, Kamala Harris's role, and Trump's post-inauguration actions. End with a message of hope for the new year and global vaccination efforts.
Jan 1, 2021 • 51min
Breakthrough: The race for the Covid vaccine
Dr Kevin Fong interviews scientists behind the Covid vaccine, discussing challenges, tensions, and faith in science. They explore rapid vaccine development, testing different dosages, mRNA technology, and Pfizer's breakthrough efficacy. The podcast reflects on the remarkable collaboration and dedication of researchers amidst the global pandemic.
Dec 31, 2020 • 26min
Searching for Wisdom in Lagos
A young woman searches for her missing brother in Lagos after the traumatic Lekki tollgate shooting. Nigerian youth face crackdowns, frozen bank accounts, and flee the country amidst political unrest. The aftermath of the protest reveals a vulnerable society navigating idealism, social media activism, and economic struggles.
Dec 30, 2020 • 28min
The Digital Human: Subservience
Aleks Krotoski explores the impact of human-robot interactions on societal behaviors, questioning how we project hierarchy and gender onto new technology. The podcast discusses politeness with digital assistants, the evolution of humanitarianism, social hierarchies, gendered personas of machines, and the influence of robots on redefining domestic dynamics.
Dec 29, 2020 • 36min
The Hindu bard
Dorothy Bonarjee, a young Indian student, made history by winning the bardic chair at a Welsh poetry competition in 1914. She faced cultural rejection, explored challenges Indian students experienced in British universities, and defied societal norms by settling in France during WWII. Her legacy continues to inspire, showcasing themes of identity and cultural blending.
Dec 27, 2020 • 51min
Revolution of the senses
Radio producers across Europe share stories of how the pandemic revolutionized senses like touch and sound. From a blind dancer embracing life through movement to the challenges of physical contact, listeners are taken on a journey of rediscovery and hope for the future.
Dec 26, 2020 • 24min
Coronavirus: Surviving the pandemic
Listen to survivors of the pandemic in Wuhan, China, an English couple who had a lockdown wedding, and two women in Canada and the United States sharing their experiences without human contact. From the challenges of isolation to finding moments of joy, these personal narratives offer a glimpse into life during the pandemic.
Dec 23, 2020 • 28min
The Digital Human: Messiah
Exploring the adoration of tech leaders like Zuckerberg and Musk, delving into the allure of transformative technology. Following the rise and fall of a tech startup founder, cautioning against blind faith in visionary figures. Reflecting on the impact of tech messiahs and the potential dangers of idolization.
Dec 22, 2020 • 28min
Warrior elephant guardians
Former Samburu warriors in Kenya transform into elephant caretakers at Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, fostering peace among tribes. The sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates, and releases baby elephants back into the wild. The community partnership uses goat's milk to feed elephants and names them after rival communities. Warrior elephant keepers undergo special training to release elephants. Experience the emotional journey of elephant conservation and community unity in Northern Kenya.
Dec 19, 2020 • 24min
Coronavirus: Spikes and Santas
Explore the impact of Covid spikes in South Korea, concerns for Christmas celebrations, and ski resort closures in Europe. Hear from Santas about spreading cheer during the pandemic.
