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
Oct 5, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: My year in Gaza
The podcast presents poignant stories from three Palestinian women navigating life in Gaza amidst brutal conflict. They recount their struggles with displacement and the emotional toll of living in refugee camps. One young poet, despite adversity, finds solace in her writing, showcasing resilience. Listeners gain insight into the daily challenges of scarcity and health issues, along with moments of hope that shine through despair. Their heartfelt narratives reveal the enduring spirit of those impacted by the war.
Oct 4, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: Father Adamski
Peter Adamski, a former millionaire and now a Catholic priest, shares his incredible journey from the heights of corporate success to profound personal loss. He reflects on the enduring love he shared with his late wife, Kathy, who battled early-onset Alzheimer’s. Peter discusses the challenges of navigating faith and personal choices after losing Kathy, including his calling to the priesthood at 65. He also explores the nature of suffering, how it connects us to God, and the fulfillment he found in serving others.
Oct 3, 2024 • 41min
Bonus: Lives Less Ordinary
In this bonus segment, Anoosheh Ashoori, a British-Iranian who endured years in an Iranian prison on false espionage charges, shares his harrowing experiences. He reveals how he channeled his emotional turmoil into poetry and art, finding resilience amid despair. Anoosheh recounts a life-altering arrest in Tehran, the power of creativity behind bars, and his heartfelt journey back to London. His story highlights the complex interplay between personal identity and global politics, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in dire circumstances.
Oct 2, 2024 • 18min
BBC Trending: The Baku initiative?
Violence erupts in New Caledonia as calls for independence from France grow louder. Unusual allegations suggest Azerbaijan may be manipulating the situation online. The discussion highlights the impact of a distant country's influence on local protests and examines the interplay of authoritarianism and media in the Caucasus. Insights from critics in exile reveal complexities within Azerbaijan's social media tactics. Is the Baku Initiative a genuine movement for autonomy or a pawn of government interests? Tune in to explore these intriguing connections.
Oct 1, 2024 • 26min
Saving a sinking city: Jakarta
Astudestra Ajengrastri, a BBC Indonesia reporter specializing in urban issues, discusses the drastic challenges facing Jakarta, including deadly floods and extreme pollution. She explores Indonesia's bold plan to relocate the capital to Borneo in an attempt to create a sustainable city amidst rising sea levels. The conversation highlights environmental concerns, community impacts, and the potential for the new city, Nusantara, to become either a model of innovation or an ecological nightmare. It's a thought-provoking look at urban futures in crisis.
Oct 1, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: Panama’s water fights
Panama's water crisis unfolds despite its abundant rainfall and wealthy canal. Millions lack access to clean water due to infrastructure issues and competition from the canal. The Canal Authority's decisions to limit ship passage highlight this clash of priorities. Local communities grapple with inadequate services while facing a growing population. Recent government changes offer a glimmer of hope for improvements in water accessibility. The struggle between economic profits and basic human rights forms the heart of this urgent narrative.
Sep 30, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Ian Rankin, part two
Ian Rankin, the bestselling crime writer behind the Inspector Rebus series, takes us on a journey through his writing process while working on 'Midnight in Blue.' He shares insights on escaping to Cromarty for inspiration amidst a crime fiction festival. Rankin also discusses his intricate drafting techniques, the challenges of meeting deadlines, and the evolving relationship with editors. With humor, he imagines Rebus on a cruise and reflects on balancing joy and productivity in writing.
Sep 30, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Ian Rankin, part one
Ian Rankin, the celebrated author behind the Inspector Rebus series, shares the trials and triumphs of his writing journey. He candidly reveals the challenges of sitting down to write and the inspiration he draws from daily life in Edinburgh. Listeners are treated to anecdotes about his punk roots and how humor shapes his storytelling. Rankin reflects on the importance of feedback in his creative process and discusses how personal experiences inform his characters and plots, all while navigating the delicate balance of fame and creativity.
Sep 28, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Who is Mexico's first female president?
Laura García, a journalist from BBC Mundo, and Luis Fajardo, a contributor from BBC Monitoring, discuss the historic election of Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico's first female president. They explore the significance of her victory for women's representation and rights amid ongoing challenges like gender-based violence. The conversation delves into Sheinbaum's strategies for navigating crime, her background as a climate scientist, and the complexities of U.S.-Mexico relations. Together, they assess the hopes and concerns surrounding this groundbreaking leadership.
Sep 28, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: People in Lebanon and northern Israel
Two doctors from Beirut, who bravely treat victims of escalating violence amid the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, share their harrowing experiences. They discuss the emotional and professional toll on medical staff, highlighting the severe injuries they witness daily. Personal stories from residents like Zaahra reveal the deep attachment to their land despite the destruction surrounding them. The podcast paints a vivid picture of resilience and hope in the face of overwhelming adversity, emphasizing the human cost of this ongoing crisis.
