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
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.
Nov 26, 2019 • 28min
Emperor complex
Exploring Chairman Huang's ambitious project of creating Seaside City in China, a Disney-inspired town on the sea. Witness the rapid transformation from farmland to a bustling city with an ocean theme, raising questions about economic experiments or personal agendas. Hear from former peasants on their thoughts about living in Seaside City.
Nov 24, 2019 • 50min
The Malawi tapes
Race to save traditional Malawian music tapes from disintegrating. Efforts to digitize and preserve rich musical heritage. Exploration of unique traditional instruments. Creation of one-man band instrument. Challenges and rewards of playing music outside traditional norms.
Nov 21, 2019 • 27min
Russian women fight back
Russian women in a fight against domestic abuse in Russia, where a law reduces punishment for first-time abusers. Three sisters facing murder charges after enduring abuse spark protests. Activists push for legal reforms and support victims, while a lone feminist MP fights for change in the Russian Duma.
Nov 14, 2019 • 27min
Sierra Leone: The price of going home
Exploring the challenges faced by young Sierra Leoneans who risked everything for a better life in Europe, only to face imprisonment and slavery. Returning home, they confront shame, regret, and family conflicts. Can they rebuild their lives and find reconciliation with their families? Or will the temptation to seek fortunes abroad arise again?
Nov 12, 2019 • 28min
Hong Kong: Love in a divided city
BBC World Affairs correspondent Paul Adams explores the impact of mass protests on couples in Hong Kong. The podcast discusses the challenges faced by cross-border relationships, the role of music in the protest movement, the use of tracking apps by protesters, and concerns about Hong Kong's uncertain future as the transition to 2047 approaches.
Nov 10, 2019 • 52min
Comrade Africa
Discover the surprising relationship between Communist East Germany and Africa through Radio Berlin International, how socialist ideals and aid were broadcasted, the collaborative efforts in Angola, challenges faced by workers, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and poignant farewells to Radio Berlin International listeners.
Nov 7, 2019 • 28min
Albania’s Iranian guests
Rudy Giuliani visits Albanian MEK group, sparking controversy. MEK opposes Iran regime, facing security concerns in Albania. Stateless MEK members live precariously in Tirana. Podcast explores MEK's history and impact on Albania's democracy.
Nov 6, 2019 • 27min
Moondog: Sound of New York
Meet Moondog, the blind musician who taught himself music by ear and created unique compositions inspired by New York City sounds. From street symphonies to collaborations with legends like Duke Ellington, explore the legacy of this pioneering artist.
Nov 5, 2019 • 27min
Cameroon's MMA champion
Francis Ngannou's journey from a sand quarry worker to a top MMA fighter, overcoming hardships and homelessness to become a global star. He returns to Cameroon to invest in the youth and dreams of being a role model in his community.
