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
Nov 17, 2020 • 28min
Obesity crisis In Thai temples
Sucheera Maguire, an expert on the impact of obesity in Thai temples, discusses the rising issue of obesity in Thai temples where one in two Buddhist monks is obese. The podcast explores the reasons behind this, including the consumption of high-calorie convenience foods and the challenges monks face in controlling their diet. It also delves into the innovative solutions Thai nutritionists are implementing to combat the obesity crisis in temples.
Nov 15, 2020 • 51min
Blood lands
A true crime story in a South African farming town involves a brutal attack on a farmhouse, leading to betrayal, racial tensions, and a divisive trial. Uncovering shocking evidence, negotiations for immunity, and a courtroom drama with conflicting narratives add to the gripping saga.
Nov 14, 2020 • 24min
US election: A test of democracy
Exploring reactions to Joe Biden's win, loyal Trump supporters' perspectives on voter fraud, transition of power post-election, women's unity and empowerment, embracing diversity and accountability in politics.
Nov 12, 2020 • 26min
The burning scar
Exploring Indonesia's palm oil industry, the podcast investigates unfair land deals and violations in Papua. The impact of companies on local communities, environmental violations, and conflicts over land rights are highlighted. Witness reports and satellite data uncover intentional fires in plantations, revealing the environmental and legal implications in the region.
Nov 10, 2020 • 28min
India's missing children
Explore the heartbreaking reality of missing children in India, delving into the world of child trafficking. Learn about the efforts to combat this disturbing phenomenon and the impact of the Coronavirus on child trafficking. Follow the search for Sunita and uncover the unyielding hope of her family amidst the challenges they face.
Nov 7, 2020 • 24min
US election: Divided nation
Exploring the aftermath of the US election with reflections from individuals on political identity shifts, Black Trump supporters, and Republican votes for Biden. Discussions on polarized reactions post-election, strategies to engage Black voters, and the impact of Kamala Harris. Navigating the political divide in the US and promoting positive change amidst differing beliefs and relationships in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Nov 5, 2020 • 27min
Sicily’s prisoner fishermen
Sicilian fishermen jailed in Libya in Red Prawn War, prisoner swap demanded by warlord Haftar. Harrowing experiences, negotiations, and migrant tragedies intertwined in Mediterranean conflict.
Nov 3, 2020 • 28min
Missing and murdered: America’s forgotten native girls
LeAndra Nephin, Member of the Omaha Tribe, discusses the high rates of violence against Native American women, the challenges they face in seeking justice, and the efforts of warrior women to combat abuse. The podcast sheds light on the missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW) movement, Enbridge Energy's sex trafficking prevention training, and the advocacy for legislation to address the issue.
Oct 31, 2020 • 26min
US election: Race and policing
Former neo-Nazis share insights on white supremacy and race in the US election. Black police officers discuss racial bias and challenges in policing. Black Lives Matter protesters share perspectives on racial injustice and the upcoming election. Individuals discuss personal transformation away from hate-based ideologies. The podcast emphasizes unity in the face of election unrest and the importance of countering fear-based motivations.
Oct 29, 2020 • 28min
US election: Socially distant
Susan Glasser and Joe Borelli discuss Trump's presidency, COVID-19 impact on the election, partisan tensions, Trump's twitter usage, accountability in pandemic responses, and challenges in the US election landscape.
