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
Oct 31, 2019 • 27min
The Zogos of Liberia
Exploring Liberia's Zogos, former child soldiers turned addicts, and efforts to rehabilitate them amidst joblessness and homelessness. Stories of redemption, resilience, and the challenges of providing care for those battling addiction in post-war Liberia.
Oct 30, 2019 • 28min
Northern Ireland 1969: The violence spreads
Ruth Sanderson, a native of Northern Ireland, delves into the roots of the Troubles in her community. She reflects on the escalating violence in 1969, the lasting impact on shattered communities, and the challenges of reconciliation amidst deep-seated divisions. With a focus on resilience and hope, she discusses the path to a more unified future beyond the shadow of 1969.
Oct 27, 2019 • 50min
Uganda's war in the bush
Exploring Uganda's tumultuous political history, from Idi Amin's dictatorship to the controversial 1980 elections. The origins and actions of the National Resistance Movement, including their first attack and challenges faced. Highlighting the enduring effects of the 1980s conflict, showcasing personal stories of civilians and child soldiers. Reflecting on the aftermath and lasting trauma of Uganda's war, pondering alternative paths to conflict resolution.
Oct 24, 2019 • 26min
Being black in Italy
Meet Italy's first black senator, Tony Iwobi, as he navigates being black in a right-wing party and tackles immigration issues. Explore the journeys of black Italians finding their place amidst rising nationalism. Discover the stories of activists, rappers, and writers shaping Afro-Italian identity and challenging societal norms in a country still very white.
Oct 23, 2019 • 27min
Northern Ireland 1969: Battle lines
Ruth Sanderson, a native of Northern Ireland, delves into the roots of the Troubles in 1969, exploring the societal impact, escalating tensions, violent clashes in Derry, involvement of the IRA, tragic loss, and contradicting narratives leading to chaos and confusion in the divided society.
Oct 22, 2019 • 27min
Looking for love: The Zoroastrian way
Exploring the challenges of finding love within the Zoroastrian community, focusing on shared faith and cultural continuity. Discussions on using dating apps, attending youth congress events, and societal expectations. Navigating long-distance relationships, societal pressures, and traditions while searching for a Zoroastrian partner.
Oct 20, 2019 • 51min
Super Sisters
Melissa Rich, inspiring 'supersisters' trading cards, reunites with creators to discuss female icons in sports, empowering women through platforms like Olympics, advocating for gender equality. Exploring impact of diverse role models, male allies, and laws promoting inclusivity and empowerment. Reflecting on challenges and achievements of historical female athletes, advocating for recognition and inspiration for future generations.
Oct 17, 2019 • 27min
Argentina’s ‘white gold’ rush
The podcast explores the environmental impact of lithium mining in Argentina, focusing on the conflict between the benefits of electric cars and the water scarcity issues caused by extraction in indigenous communities. It also highlights the clash between traditional salt-cutting practices and the economic promises of the lithium industry, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and community engagement.
Oct 16, 2019 • 28min
The Gospel of Wealth
Andrew Carnegie, the world's greatest philanthropist, emphasized giving back to the community and supporting education. The podcast discusses why billionaires should give away their wealth, with a focus on education as the top priority. Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown questions why today's billionaires aren't giving more money to important causes.
Oct 15, 2019 • 28min
My personal history of sormeh
Exploring the cultural and personal significance of sormeh, a 4000-year-old recipe for black eyeliner in Persian beauty. Reflecting on its political symbolism, resistance to oppression, and its role in preserving Iranian heritage. Delving into the ancient history of coal eyeliner in Egyptian and Iranian cultures, and its transformative power. Discussing makeup as a cultural connection, societal expectations, and the complexities of cultural identity in the Persian diaspora post-Islamic Revolution.
