The Documentary Podcast

Bobbie Tree, Senior Lead of the windows team at Selfridges, shares her expertise in crafting the department store's iconic Christmas displays. She discusses the year's theme, 'More the Merrier', and how they collaborated with renowned artists to bring it to life. Bobbie reveals the meticulous process behind each vibrant design, from concept to execution, highlighting the emotional impact these windows aim to create. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and creativity that transform the displays into festive spectacles.

Zlata Onufrieva, a BBC Russian journalist, dives into the harrowing journeys of Chechen women fleeing oppressive societal norms. She illustrates the struggles of Leah and Aminat, highlighting grassroots initiatives aimed at empowering women. Meanwhile, Ehsan Yunus, a BBC Urdu journalist, explores the historical significance of South Asian corner shops in Britain, revealing their role as community pillars. Together, they shed light on resilience, identity, and the vital connections that shape lives amidst adversity.

Syrians are rediscovering their voices after decades of silence under Assad’s rule. Personal stories reveal a mix of joy and uncertainty as they celebrate newfound freedoms while reflecting on past traumas. Conversations about women’s representation in governance spark cautious optimism for the future. Refugees share their experiences abroad, grappling with the decision to return home amidst fears of extremist factions. Overall, there’s a strong desire for collective governance and international support as Syria navigates its complex new landscape.

Chine McDonald, an author known for her explorations of faith and race, and Janina Ramirez, a professor of medieval history, discuss the powerful imagery of Black Madonnas. They explore the absence of black representations of the Virgin Mary and the cultural and emotional significance of these figures. McDonald shares her personal journey and encounters with Black Madonnas in France, while Ramirez highlights their historical context. Together, they examine how these images empower marginalized communities, particularly Black women, within religious spaces.

Thirty years after the Bosnian War, survivors and their descendants still grapple with displacement in Tuzla's makeshift settlements. The haunting stories of Srebrenica genocide survivors reveal deep emotional scars and a relentless struggle for normalcy. Personal narratives highlight the challenges of rebuilding lives amid systemic failures and ongoing trauma. Amid these hardships, tales of resilience emerge, showcasing the strength of individuals like Mersad, who strive to reconnect with their lost homes and loved ones. The podcast poignantly underscores the importance of remembering and addressing the past.

Dive into the unsettling world of wellness culture, where a woman's quest for inner peace through yoga leads to shocking revelations of grooming and exploitation. Hear her mother recount the slow descent into darkness that many fail to notice. This exploration unmasks the hidden dangers in the quest for spiritual transformation, revealing stories that urge listeners to question the very foundations of the wellness industry.

As rising sea levels threaten low-lying Pacific Islands, the Cook Islands considers deep sea mining as a potential lifeline. This controversial strategy aims to harvest metallic nodules for tech industries, promising economic boost but raising environmental alarms. Local protests highlight community concerns about government support and ecological impacts. Diverse opinions within the community expose the tensions between development and cultural preservation, while training initiatives empower local youth to engage in marine science.

Celebrate a decade of stories exploring our relationship with food. Discover a gripping survival tale of enduring hunger while adrift at sea. Hear reflections on wartime scarcity that shaped a lifelong aversion to waste. Experience the emotional bonds formed over shared meals, such as a Ukrainian family's solace with British hosts. Dive into the impact of friendship and culinary legacies, revealing how past connections enhance our present experiences. Food isn’t just sustenance; it’s a vital link to each other.

Dive into the thrilling world of High Speed Telegraphy, where competitors from countries like Belarus, Russia, and Japan battle it out in a silent hall, just clicks echoing the atmosphere. Discover how musical skills enhance Morse code transmission and witness the heartwarming story of a tech student creating devices to aid communication for those with speech disabilities. Plus, explore the rich history of Morse code and its vital role during crises, as well as the emotional rollercoaster of a champion celebrating their record-breaking victory.

Verónica Smink, a BBC Mundo journalist, reports from Buenos Aires on President Javier Milei's unique approach to leadership. They discuss his chainsaw campaign promise and controversial austerity measures, highlighting their impact on vulnerable citizens. Christine Otieno from BBC Africa shares insights into her work revealing and restoring thousands of old portraits in Uganda, exploring the emotional connections these images foster within families and communities. Together, they navigate the intersection of politics and cultural heritage.