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
Jan 24, 2020 • 51min
The remarkable resistance of Lilo
Elisabeth Charlotte Gloeden, a member of the Resistance in Nazi Germany, bravely hid and arranged safe passage for Jews. The podcast explores the challenges of Lilo and her husband, their defiance against the Nazis, and the ultimate price they paid for their resistance.
Jan 23, 2020 • 27min
Finland's race to go carbon neutral
Tero Mustonen, a fisherman-turned-climate scientist, leads Finland's race to go carbon neutral by re-wilding peat fields. The podcast explores the historical significance of fire, challenges of phasing out the peat industry, sustainable hunting practices, and the urgent need for climate action.
Jan 22, 2020 • 27min
Disagreeing better
Exploring the need for better ways to disagree constructively in public discourse, sharing the journey of individuals overcoming deep-seated prejudices in Northern Ireland, and highlighting the success of civil public discourse in Ireland through citizens' assemblies.
Jan 21, 2020 • 48min
My father the killer
Young women in Argentina confront their fathers, accused of heinous crimes during the military regime. They seek healing and justice, challenging family legacies. The podcast explores themes of guilt, identity struggles, legal battles, and the power of collective voices.
Jan 19, 2020 • 51min
Greenland: Why music matters
Exploring the role of music in Greenland, from traditional drum dancing to rap addressing social issues. Artists use lyrics to engage with climate and deep-rooted problems. Music school offers a safe space for young people, highlighting the power of music in community unity and individual empowerment.
Jan 16, 2020 • 27min
Ayahuasca: Fear and healing in the Amazon
Exploring the growing trend of Ayahuasca tourism in the Peruvian Amazon, focusing on spiritual enlightenment, mental health treatments, and cultural clashes. Unveiling the dark side of sexual abuse and exploitation within the Ayahuasca community, highlighting the challenges faced by indigenous healers and vulnerable women. Delving into the transformative healing experiences and troubling incidents during Ayahuasca ceremonies, revealing the complex dynamics of power and trauma in traditional practices.
Jan 14, 2020 • 28min
The Coffin Club
Former palliative care nurse, Katie Williams, started the first Coffin Club in her garage where elderly New Zealanders come together to decorate their own coffins. Award-winning documentary-maker Cathy FitzGerald visits the club members, showcasing a unique approach to death with personalized coffins and fostering camaraderie and support among the group.
Jan 12, 2020 • 50min
Germany: Justice and memory
Exploring post-WWII Germany's pursuit of justice for Nazi crimes, challenges of holding perpetrators accountable, TV series impact, Vanse Conference eerie context, uncovering Auschwitz atrocities, and ongoing efforts to prosecute perpetrators.
Jan 9, 2020 • 26min
Belarus: The wild world of Chernobyl
Ninety-year-old Galina shares memories of living among wildlife in the Chernobyl zone, discussing the impact of Soviet development and the return of animals post-nuclear disaster. The podcast explores the resurgence of wildlife in the area, challenges of studying radioactive contamination in animals, and reflections on the emotional aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster.
Jan 7, 2020 • 27min
Trans in Japan
Mariko Oi investigates the controversial laws over gender change in Japan where individuals must undergo sterilization and gender reassignment surgery. The podcast discusses the challenges faced by transgender individuals, advocacy for change, navigating transgender identity, family acceptance, and activism for transgender rights in Japan.
