
The Documentary Podcast
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 protests in Turkey, to the headphone revolution, 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.
Latest episodes

Jan 27, 2025 • 51min
In the Studio: Behind the scenes with Ken Loach
Ken Loach, the acclaimed British director known for his impactful social realist films, shares behind-the-scenes insights of his final feature, The Old Oak. He discusses the emotional challenges of portraying the lives of Syrian refugees alongside a local community. The podcast dives into the unique auditioning techniques he employs to ease actors' nerves, the creative process behind constructing the fictional pub, and the collaborative spirit on set. Loach also reflects on legacy, offering a deep and moving perspective on the importance of storytelling in film.

Jan 26, 2025 • 49min
Bonus: Sportsworld: Julien Alfred - The Race of My Life
Julien Alfred, a Saint Lucian sprinter and the country's first Olympic medalist, shares her inspiring journey to gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Joined by her first coach, Cuthbert Modeste, they discuss the challenges faced and the strategies that led to her triumph. Olympic champion Dawn Harper-Nelson provides insights into Alfred's impactful victory, while Dr. Uralise Delaire highlights the electrifying national celebrations in St. Lucia, showcasing the unity and pride her achievement ignited across the island.

Jan 25, 2025 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Russia's crackdown on gay clubs
Anastasia Golubeva, a BBC Russian journalist, reveals the chilling intensification of anti-LGBTQ+ crackdowns in Russia, sharing harrowing personal accounts from activists facing police raids on gay clubs. Dorcas Wangira, BBC Africa's health correspondent, reflects on the pandemic's far-reaching effects in Africa, exploring economic struggles and psychological scars that persist post-COVID-19. Both guests provide insightful commentary on the resilience and challenges of marginalized communities amidst evolving societal landscapes.

Jan 25, 2025 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: The first days of the Gaza ceasefire
The podcast delves into the emotional aftermath of the recent ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the poignant stories of both Israeli and Palestinian individuals. It captures the hope and trauma of displaced residents returning home, alongside the relief efforts facing immense challenges. Personal narratives reveal deep-seated mistrust, emphasizing the urgent need for a new narrative to foster peace. Aid workers discuss the humanitarian crisis, while the psychological impact on children underscores the critical need for international support in rebuilding healthcare and education systems.

Jan 24, 2025 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Glorifying God through wine
Father Père Basile, a Benedictine monk at St. Madeleine's Abbey in France, shares his journey from a young boy in a globetrotting family to a cloistered life dedicated to faith and winemaking. He describes the monastic routine filled with prayer and labor, emphasizing the divine significance of wine. The rich history of the abbey's papal vineyard, revived to support local families, showcases the collaboration between monks and winemakers. Father Basile also reflects on themes of mortality, humility, and the spiritual joy found in community and devotion.

Jan 23, 2025 • 27min
Israel’s Unrwa ban
The discussion unveils the potential repercussions of Israel's proposed ban on UNRWA, which provides vital aid to millions of Palestinian refugees. Personal stories from educators and students illustrate the agency's crucial role in education and health. Allegations against UNRWA's ties to Hamas spark controversy, but independent investigations counter these claims. The looming ban raises fears of a humanitarian crisis, with calls for urgent support as communities face displacement and precarious living conditions.

22 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 19min
BBC Trending: Passport bros
The podcast dives into the rising trend of foreign men flocking to Medellín, Colombia, fueled by social media's portrayal of romantic opportunities. It highlights the darker side of this tourism, revealing the troubling exploitation of local women and minors. Experiences of digital nomads illustrate the allure of living abroad, but the discussion unearths the associated risks, including violence and drugging tactics. Ultimately, it paints a picture of a city caught between vibrant attractions and a harsh reality of sexual exploitation.

Jan 21, 2025 • 30min
Assignment: Death marches - uncovering the truth beneath the soil
Explore the haunting history of a small Polish town, once part of Germany, as it confronts its past linked to Nazi atrocities. Discover the chilling stories of Jewish prisoners forced on brutal death marches from Auschwitz, revealing personal legacies intertwined with collective memory. Hear descendants reflecting on family ties to the war and the emotional burden of inherited guilt. The podcast dives deep into the importance of remembrance and the recent efforts to commemorate forgotten victims through collaborative memorials.

Jan 20, 2025 • 26min
In the Studio: Michael Visocchi
Michael Visocchi, a trailblazing sculptor and the youngest member of the Royal Scottish Academy, shares his journey creating 'Commensalis' for South Georgia. He unveils the challenges of constructing this public artwork in a remote area steeped in whaling history. Visocchi explores the artistic parallels between rusting rivets and living barnacles, embodying themes of coexistence with nature. He also reflects on the duality of whaling, highlighting its legacy and the importance of conserving the region's unique ecosystem.

Jan 19, 2025 • 27min
The Coming Storm: Inauguration
Explore the surreal political landscape shaped by figures like Kash Patel and RFK Jr. as they influence America’s governance. Delve into the haunting details of Robert F. Kennedy's assassination, where mind control theories intertwine with mystery. Unpack the heated debates surrounding Ukraine's biolabs and the misinformation fueling conspiracy theories. Finally, confront the controversial views on vaccines championed by RFK Jr. amid a critical reassessment of public beliefs in an era marked by distrust.