The Documentary Podcast
BBC World Service
A window into our world, through in-depth storytelling from the BBC. Investigating, reporting and uncovering true stories from everywhere. Award-winning journalism, unheard voices, amazing culture and global issues. From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the frontline of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.Every week, we take you into the minds of the world's most creative people and explore personal approaches to spirituality. And we bring together people from around the globe to discuss how news stories are affecting their lives. A new episode most days, all year round. From our BBC World Service teams at: Assignment, Heart and Soul, In the Studio, OS Conversations and The Fifth Floor.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 23, 2025 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Musambwa - Lake Victoria's sacred island
Emmanuel Katongole, the oldest resident and spiritual guardian of Musambwa Island, shares a captivating glimpse into the island's unique culture. He discusses the strong spiritual bonds between the fishermen and Lake Victoria, rooted in ancient traditions linked to the lake's creation. Listeners will be intrigued by Caroline Namujuzi's experiences as the only woman on the island, highlighting themes of isolation and resilience. The conversation unveils the impact of modernity on their sacred practices and the community’s efforts to preserve their rich heritage against shifting spiritual landscapes.
May 22, 2025 • 24min
People Fixing the World: Helping Chile's stolen children
Jane Chambers, a dedicated reporter in Chile, shares the heartbreaking legacy of baby theft under Pinochet's regime. She highlights the crucial work of Nos Buscamos, an NGO assisting many reunited with their birth families through innovative DNA testing. Chambers shares powerful personal stories of mothers and children reconnecting after decades of separation, illustrating the emotional turmoil and enduring trauma stemming from these illegal adoptions. The podcast sheds light on the fight for justice and the enduring need for community support and awareness.
May 21, 2025 • 20min
BBC Trending: Brazilian farmers are (very) online
Brazilian farmers are finding their voice on social media, showcasing a new image of agribusiness through catchy music and viral videos. They argue against critics who claim their posts are mere propaganda to obscure environmental issues. The podcast delves into the rise of Agro-influencers battling negative perceptions while highlighting the troubling realities of deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. As Brazil prepares for COP30, the complex relationship between agriculture and climate change takes center stage, sparking crucial conversations about sustainability.
9 snips
May 20, 2025 • 27min
Assignment: Colombia's webcam women
Delve into Medellín, where the burgeoning webcam industry employs thousands of women while raising questions about empowerment versus exploitation. Hear the contrasting stories of models like Daniela, as they navigate challenges in a world of financial allure and artistic expression. Explore the ethical complexities, working conditions, and societal impacts on women’s rights. Personal tales reveal the emotional weight and economic necessity behind this controversial industry in Colombia.
May 19, 2025 • 26min
In the Studio: Esben Holmboe Bang
Esben Holmboe Bang, the youngest ever three-starred Michelin chef from Denmark, shares his passion for Norwegian cuisine at his restaurant, Maaemo. He discusses his creative process, emphasizing spontaneity and collaboration. Esben reimagines traditional dishes like rønbergrød, highlighting cultural significance in his culinary evolution. His love for foraging inspires flavorful creations, while he reflects on personal memories through food, illustrating the deep connection between identity and culinary artistry in Norway.
40 snips
May 18, 2025 • 35min
The Global Jigsaw: The Trump effect on global media
Moses Rono, a BBC Monitoring voice, discusses the profound impact of Trump's administration on global media, particularly the funding cuts to crucial outlets like Voice of America. He highlights the long-term damage these cuts pose to independent journalism, viewed as a gift to dictators. The conversation reveals how authoritarian nations may exploit the resulting media vacuum, especially in regions like Africa. Rono emphasizes the critical need for diverse media sources to counter state narratives and misinformation in today's complex information landscape.
May 17, 2025 • 15min
The Fifth Floor: Ukraine, the war and TikTok
Zhenya Shidlovska from the BBC Ukrainian social media team brings a fresh perspective on delivering news through TikTok amid the war in Ukraine. She discusses how Ukrainian soldiers and civilians share their daily experiences with humor and relatability, adapting traditional news formats for younger audiences. The podcast also touches on the resilience shown through uplifting content and personal stories, illustrating how humor plays a vital role in coping with the challenges of conflict. Plus, surprising insights into trending memes and lighter narratives emerge.
May 17, 2025 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: Living in Kashmir
What is it like to grow up in a beauty marked by conflict? This conversation features three Kashmiri women reflecting on their deep emotional ties to their homeland while living abroad. Hear personal stories of resilience amidst military tension and the normalization of fear in daily life. Discover how individuals from both sides of the Line of Control find common ground, and explore the dedication to preserving Kashmiri culture through poetry and literature. Dive into the complex relationship between beauty and burden in this disputed region.
May 16, 2025 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Malcolm X and his Letter from the Hajj
Herb Boyd, an author and academic, provides historical context on Malcolm X's transformative journey, including his pilgrimage to Mecca. Ingrid Mattson, Chair of Islamic Studies at Huron University College, highlights the significance of Malcolm's Hajj experience for American Muslims. They discuss themes of racial unity, the shift from separatism to a message of global solidarity, and the challenges of upholding ideals of equality. Together, they explore Malcolm X's legacy and its relevance to contemporary social justice movements.
13 snips
May 15, 2025 • 29min
Autism, empathy and psychopaths
In this thought-provoking discussion, Simon Baron-Cohen, a distinguished professor at the University of Cambridge and creator of the Empathy Quotient test, challenges long-held stereotypes about autism and empathy. He reveals recent findings suggesting that many autistic individuals actually possess heightened empathy, countering the misconception that they lack emotional connection. The conversation also explores the nuances of emotional mimicry, the importance of acceptance in understanding autistic perspectives, and the 'double empathy problem,' fostering a richer dialogue on emotional experiences.
