The Documentary Podcast

We are back on Rikers island – New York’s largest and most notorious jail where Ryan Burvik works with inmates on a unique hip hop program. We hear Ryan working with Mikey MTA and Zig on raps that express their regrets and their ambition for the future. What is new is the inclusion of women using hip hop as a way of telling their story. We hear from the talented Remy who used her skill as a performer during her three years in jail to leverage visits from her six-year-old daughter. We also follow some of the students once they have been released. Not just Remy but Angel and Trigger and Enterprise Wise are all enrolled on Ryan’s internship at his studio in West Queens.

Discover the world of Italian mafia through the eyes of a former boss turned state collaborator. Explore the inner workings of the Camorra, family loyalty, transitioning from crime to honesty, and the struggles of law enforcement in Naples. Follow the journey of a mafia boss turned informant as he reflects on his criminal past and grapples with his identity and future.

Alan Dein connects with strangers worldwide to explore commonalities and belonging. Topics include aspirations in Afghanistan, financial challenges abroad, a Sierra Leonean's sense of duty, and reflecting on home countries amidst conflict and displacement. An 86-year-old German man in Mexico discusses coping with loss through music.

Keri Blakinger, Marshall Project criminal justice reporter based in Houston, discusses the impact of liberal Democrats' election in reshaping Houston's criminal justice system. Topics include challenging the cash bail system, progressive reforms, and the transformation towards rehabilitation over punishment.

MC and producer Ryan Burvick takes us behind bars on Rikers Island, New York’s largest and troubled jail. He leads a music production programme there called Beats, Rhymes and Justice, which helps inmates write rhymes, make music and imagine their future off the island in a different light. Ayosay has been on Rikers for five months. He is an experienced rapper from New York who dreams of making it in hip hop. Trigger is working on two tracks that express his desire to make a better life for his four-year-old daughter. Suave, a former student from the Beats, Rhymes and Justice programme, has recently been released after spending over two years in jail and is trying to adapt to life at home with his mother in the Bronx.

Explore the struggles of homeless individuals in California relying on a 24-hour bus service for shelter. Learn about Motel 22, a temporary refuge on bus route 22, and the challenges faced by passengers and bus operators. Hear stories from individuals like Brian and Mark, highlighting the housing crisis in Silicon Valley. Follow Dory's journey from homelessness to finding security, and glimpse into Second Street Studios providing support for the formerly homeless.

Alan Dein connects with strangers worldwide to explore commonalities across cultures. Topics include struggles with homophobia in China, resisting extremism in Egypt, pursuing passions in Iran, and aspirations for a better future in Nigeria. The podcast showcases personal journeys, resilience, and the value of mutual respect.

Beef rancher in New Mexico and beef farmer in South Africa connect digitally to discuss sustainable farming practices, challenges in cattle farming, infrastructure maintenance, funding issues, and cross-cultural exchange. They share experiences and express gratitude, highlighting commonalities and the potential for friendship.

Gospel and hip-hop are merging in the music industry, with artists like Kanye West and Chance the Rapper leading the way. UK rapper Guvna B explores this shift by meeting with gospel legends Donald Lawrence, Kierra Sheard, Lecrae, and Andy Mineo. They discuss the challenges faced in blending Christian themes with hip-hop and the evolution of gospel music in the UK. The podcast delves into the impact of mainstream success on gospel hip-hop artists and the authenticity in music expression.

Exploring the reinvention of Miss America in the era of #MeToo, with discussions on the removal of the swimsuit competition, empowerment of women, and modernizing the program while preserving tradition. Former contestants and current leadership share insights on evolving beauty pageant culture.