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
Dec 17, 2019 • 27min
The Rainbow Railroad
A couple from Barbados, Jane and Patricia, flee persecution for being gay and seek help from the Rainbow Railroad to relocate to Canada. The podcast follows their journey to safety, showcasing the risks involved and the support provided by the organization. It explores the themes of resilience, enduring bonds, and the importance of feeling safe and accepted.
Dec 15, 2019 • 50min
Judy Garland: The final rainbow
Explore Judy Garland's exceptional talent, struggles with fame, and untimely death in a journey from rising star to tragic end. Delve into her financial woes, personal relationships, and the impact of fame, shedding light on the complexities of Hollywood's star system. Learn about her tumultuous marriage, final days, and enduring legacy in the glittering world of entertainment.
Dec 12, 2019 • 28min
A fight for light in Lebanon
Lebanon battles chronic electricity shortages with citizens facing daily struggles. Illegal generators profit while politicians turn a blind eye. Protesters demand constant power supply amid corruption. Can Lebanon overcome the power struggle?
Dec 11, 2019 • 27min
From Bude to Berlin
Gordon Corera becomes the first journalist allowed to record inside GCHQ's listening station at Bude on Britain’s south-west coast. The station has spied on global communications satellites for decades, sucking in signals from space. He takes us from the Cold War, when GCHQ was quietly eavesdropping on the front lines in Berlin, to the current digital era. And Gordon finds out how, following the revelations of Edward Snowden, the agency has been forced out into the open.
Dec 10, 2019 • 27min
My Big Korean-Iranian Wedding
Hossein, an Iranian, is marrying Hee Sue, a South Korean, unveiling the contrasts between their countries' economic paths. The podcast delves into historical events, cultural reflections, and personal struggles, shedding light on the complexities of their unique relationship and the parallel universes of Iran and South Korea.
Dec 7, 2019 • 27min
The digital election: How social media is reshaping UK democracy
In the UK’s 2019 general election, social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram are playing a more prominent role than in any previous campaign. As the election enters its final stages, political scientist Travis Ridout, co-director of the highly respected Wesleyan Media Project – travels to the UK to immerses himself in current online activity. He finds out what strategies and techniques are being used to influence – or manipulate voters – and considers what lessons from the USA could be influencing the campaign.
Dec 5, 2019 • 27min
Sri Lanka: The new climate of fear
Exploring the new climate of fear in Sri Lanka post-Easter bombings, with rising anti-Muslim sentiments and emigration. Delving into the political landscape and personal stories of discrimination and uncertainty. Navigating fear and the emotional turmoil of deciding to stay or leave amidst threats and challenges.
Dec 4, 2019 • 28min
How Scarborough saved the world
Explore the pivotal role of GCHQ Scarborough in history, from intercepting messages in WWI to Cold War efforts. Learn about decoding encrypted messages, intelligence operations, and the vital contributions during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Hear from staff members reflecting on their experiences and the evolution of their work at Scarborough.
Dec 3, 2019 • 32min
Giving peace a chance
Musician and activist John Lennon's bed-in for peace protest in Montreal is revisited, with personal memories shared by witnesses. The podcast delves into the impact of the iconic event, a humorous recording of 'Give Peace a Chance', nostalgic encounters, and modern interpretations of the historical event emphasizing collaboration and friendship.
Nov 28, 2019 • 27min
The man who laughed at al-Qaeda
Raed Fares, Founder of Syria's Radio Fresh FM, defied extremists by broadcasting bird sounds and disguising female voices on air. Despite his tragic assassination, his radio station continues to defy threats and promote humor in the face of danger in war-torn Idlib.
