The Documentary Podcast

Journalist Samira Shackle joins ambulance driver Muhammad Safdar on his rounds in Karachi, revealing the challenges of being a first responder in a city ravaged by gang wars and political violence. They discuss the absence of a state ambulance service, the impactful work of the Edhi Foundation, and the complex social and economic problems at the heart of the country. Throughout the podcast, they highlight the dedication and resilience of Karachi's ambulance drivers in the face of overwhelming situations and the sacrifices they make to save lives.

The podcast discusses Spain's tourism industry struggles during the pandemic, including challenges faced by businesses in Ibiza and Gran Canaria. It also highlights a Barcelona hotel owner's initiative to host COVID-19 patients, as well as the resilience of musicians dealing with canceled tours and finding innovative ways to connect with audiences.

A failed coup in Venezuela, Operation Gideon, led by exiled Venezuelans and former US Special Forces soldiers, ended disastrously. The plan, plagued by hubris and incompetence, aimed to depose Nicolas Maduro but resulted in deaths and captures. The podcast explores the questionable motives behind joining such a risky mission and the treacherous elements involved in the coup attempt.

Explore the evolution of milk digestion in humans through the Milkshake Gene. Discover the impact of farming on human biology and diet, including lactase persistence. Uncover the role of the Cyclops Gene in limb development and its implications on genetic variations and cancer research.

Muhammad Safdar, a veteran ambulance driver in Karachi, shares his experiences navigating the city's conflicts and violence for over fifteen years. The podcast explores the challenges faced by ambulance drivers in saving lives amidst adversity, showcasing their dedication and compassion despite the perilous challenges in humanitarian relief efforts. It sheds light on the vital role these drivers play in a city marked by violence and inequality.

Sheneen McClain shares the heartbreaking story of her son, Elijah McClain, who died after a police encounter. The podcast also delves into the systemic racism and police brutality surrounding his death. Two white mothers discuss the challenges of raising black children and the need for cultural awareness and conversations about race.

Why is watching sport so important to us as a species? And what happens when that experience is taken away from us? Award-winning sports journalist and broadcaster Clare Balding explores why sport plays such a crucial role in shaping society, speaking to a field of global experts and elite sportspeople, including the sociologists Akilah Carter-Francique, Mahfoud Amara and Ramachandra Guha; anthropologist Leila Zaki Chakravarty; and philosophers Heather Reid and Andy Martin.

Meet Abood Hamam, a photojournalist who documented life in war-torn Raqqa under Assad, rebel groups, and ISIS. Despite the danger, he captured the devastation and eventual return of life to the city. Through his vibrant images, he aims to entice displaced families to rebuild their lives in Raqqa.

Delve into the world of genes with a focus on the Ginger Gene linked to red hair. Explore the history and cultural perceptions of redheads, including pain sensitivity and skin cancer risk. Discover the genetic culprits BRCA1 and BRCA2 increasing the chances of developing cancer.

Sister Denise Bergon, a Catholic nun in Nazi-occupied France, saved 82 Jewish children by hiding them in a convent. Survivors share their bond with Sister Denise and escape from collaborators. The podcast explores the bravery, the fear of discovery by SS troops, and the harrowing experiences of hiding Jewish children during wartime.