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
Feb 18, 2025 • 27min
Assignment: The village that came back from the dead
Discover the haunting legacy of coal mining in Germany, where entire villages have vanished for fossil fuels. Hear emotional accounts from residents torn between nostalgia and an uncertain future. Explore the rise of environmental activism and its impact on communities. Witness the remarkable transformation of Morschenich into a sustainable haven as coal operations cease early. This gripping journey captures the struggle between industrial progress and the preservation of local heritage in the face of climate change.
Feb 17, 2025 • 27min
In the Studio: Jennifer Walshe
Jennifer Walshe, a Dublin-born contemporary classical composer and professor at Oxford, dives into her bold new opera set on Mars. She discusses the fascinating connections between Martian meteorites and extraterrestrial life. Walshe shares her creative process, blending sound exploration with themes of eco-anxiety and technology. The conversation touches on how chaos transforms into music, alongside the socio-political narratives woven into her Martian project. Walshe's unique approach reveals how art reflects human experiences and societal issues.
29 snips
Feb 16, 2025 • 53min
Ukraine: The architects' plan
As Ukraine faces the aftermath of war, innovative reconstruction plans are underway, featuring insights from renowned architect Norman Foster for Kharkiv's revitalization. The podcast highlights community-driven efforts in Kyiv, emphasizing cultural recovery through art. Listeners learn about Erpin's transformation, facing housing challenges during winter. Comparisons with cities like Warsaw and Sarajevo showcase the importance of sustainable, community-centered designs in rebuilding. Emotional narratives highlight resilience and the psychological impact of recovery amidst ongoing conflict.
Feb 15, 2025 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: What the US left behind in Afghanistan
Hafizullah Maroof, a BBC Afghan journalist, shares gripping insights on the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, revealing a bustling flea market where military gear is sold to the Taliban. Joao Fellet, a BBC Brazil journalist, dives into the rich history of capoeira, exploring its transformation from a form of cultural resistance among enslaved Africans to a vibrant part of contemporary Brazilian identity. Their discussions highlight the intriguing intersections of politics, culture, and history as they unfold in modern society.
6 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: How AI is changing our lives
A global gathering in Paris shines a light on the transformative effects of artificial intelligence. Tech entrepreneurs from Ghana, Denmark, and Nigeria share how AI boosts their businesses. Meanwhile, writers from the UK and the US express concerns over job security in an evolving landscape. The conversation touches on the necessity for creativity and adaptability in the workforce. Insights from the recent AI Summit reveal both opportunities and ethical challenges, particularly in healthcare and creative industries.
Feb 14, 2025 • 27min
Heart and Soul: The caretaker of Bukhara
Discover the captivating history of Bukhara, home to the oldest synagogue and a 1,000-year-old Torah. Experience the Haqqoni prayer, bridging Jewish and Muslim cultures, highlighting themes of memory and mourning. Through personal narratives, explore the struggles faced by the Bukharan Jewish community amidst upheaval and diaspora. Learn about their vibrant musical traditions in the U.S. and the emotional bonds that keep their heritage alive despite the challenges of assimilation. Reflect on the deeper meaning of belonging and the interplay between life and mortality.
Feb 13, 2025 • 26min
World Wide Waves '25: Whispers in the air
Discover the inspiring revival of the Nuxalk language through a community radio station in Bella Coola, broadcasting vital cultural narratives. The podcast highlights the intricate relationship between the Nuxalk people and their environment, emphasizing the power of storytelling in reclaiming identity. It tackles intergenerational trauma, showcasing the healing journey through music and heritage. Join a vibrant dialogue on cultural preservation and environmental stewardship, celebrating resilience and community spirit.
Feb 12, 2025 • 18min
BBC Trending: Inside Nigeria’s hustle kingdoms
Dive into the intriguing world of Nigeria’s 'Hustle Kingdoms,' where aspiring scammers are trained in cybercrimes like romance scams and sextortion. Explore the dark allure of underground Yahoo Academies, where desperation fuels digital deception. Hear heart-wrenching stories of sextortion's devastating impact, and discover the legal battles faced by authorities trying to combat these organized crime networks. Uncover how new technologies, including AI, are evolving the landscape of digital fraud in this virtual underbelly.
Feb 11, 2025 • 27min
Saudi and trans: Eden’s final message
The heartbreaking story of Eden Knight, a young Saudi transgender woman, unfolds as her final message goes viral, revealing her struggles with identity and acceptance. Friends share poignant memories from her vibrant life, illuminating her courage and emotional journey. The podcast delves into the pressures Eden faced regarding her transition and the coercion that marred her pursuit of freedom. It reflects on the profound themes of love, loss, and the urgent need for mental health support in the wake of tragedy.
Feb 10, 2025 • 26min
In the Studio: Bárbara Sánchez-Kane
Bárbara Sánchez-Kane, a Mexican fashion designer famed for her eclectic and gender-bending designs, delves into the complexities of identity in her work. She discusses the influence of cultural symbols like quinceañera dresses and BDSM harnesses in reshaping attire that challenges traditional gender norms. Exploring her creative process in Mexico City, she highlights the significance of layering, the transformation of Mexican fashion, and how her designs empower wearers to embrace their identities amidst chaos.
