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
Oct 27, 2020 • 29min
China's rocket man
Guest Qian Xuesen, known as the father of China's rocket programme, is celebrated for kick-starting its space exploration. The podcast explores his journey from scientific advances before WW2 to his return to China amidst political intrigue. It delves into the controversies surrounding his legacy and his impact on the current tensions between China and the US.
Oct 25, 2020 • 51min
Fighting together in Korea
Discover the story of the Korean War and how it led to social change in the US with desegregation of the armed forces. Explore President Truman's transformation from a racist to a civil rights advocate. Learn about the struggles and discrimination faced by African American soldiers in the military during this tumultuous period.
Oct 24, 2020 • 24min
US election: Trucking and farming
Exploring how the US election has influenced industries like trucking and farming. Dairy farmers in Wisconsin share how trade deals impact their farms. Truckers describe their observations driving across the country over the past four years
Oct 22, 2020 • 27min
The British and their fish
Former fisherman Kurt Christensen shares the rise and decline of Grimsby's fishing industry and its impact post-Brexit. The podcast explores the emotional connection to fishing, challenges faced by fishermen, and hopes for industry growth. It delves into the shift towards renewable energy jobs and the inequities in British fisheries, highlighting the resilience of fishing communities.
Oct 20, 2020 • 29min
A perfect match
Journalist Ibby Caputo shares her experience with a bone marrow transplant, highlighting the importance of finding a perfect match. She explores racial disparities in healthcare and the impact it can have on treatment outcomes. The podcast delves into the emotional journeys of individuals searching for matches and the efforts to increase diversity in transplant registries.
Oct 18, 2020 • 52min
The TikTok election
Journalist Sophia Smith Galer explores TikTok's political influence in the US elections, from Gen Z engagement to spreading conspiracy theories. The podcast delves into TikTok's impact on shaping political opinions, challenges of analyzing hate and disinformation, unique strategies in political campaigning, and the role of influencers in engaging the youth in politics.
Oct 17, 2020 • 51min
The Response USA: The return
The podcast explores the evolution of voter opinions post 2016 election, reflections on Trump's presidency and international perspectives, Vince Trumboli's societal reflections, local reactions to George Floyd's killing, voices of change and resilience ahead of the elections, supporters, critics, and economic impact, and a voter's unwavering support for Trump amidst political division.
Oct 17, 2020 • 25min
US election: Losing your job
Exploring the impact of COVID-19 on the US economy and job loss through personal stories. Flight attendants share emotional experiences, a cook and switchboard operator discuss struggles. Individuals talk about feeling forgotten by presidential candidates and challenges of financial insecurity. Some consider voting for third-party candidates for political reform.
Oct 15, 2020 • 27min
Reza's story
Reza Adib, a daring journalist, shares his journey fleeing threats in Afghanistan, investigating in Iran, and surviving a perilous escape to safety in Finland. The podcast delves into his courage, persistence in seeking the truth, and the challenges faced as a refugee in Greece.
Oct 13, 2020 • 29min
Dyslexia: Into adulthood
Stella Sabin, a dyslexic individual, explores the impact of dyslexia in adulthood. She discusses the disproportionate representation of dyslexic individuals in low-paying jobs and prisons. GCHQ positively recruits dyslexic thinkers for their imaginative problem-solving skills like code cracking.
