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
Aug 18, 2024 • 49min
Under ash: Uncovering Maui’s past
Pūlama Kaufman, a lifelong Maui resident, and cultural leader Hokulani Holt delve into Lahaina's rich history and the tragic aftermath of the devastating wildfires. They explore the colonial transformations of land ownership in Hawaii and its long-lasting impacts on agriculture and community. The duo reflects on Lahaina’s cultural ties to the land and ongoing struggles for water rights amid tourism pressures. Their heartfelt discussion emphasizes the necessity of responsible tourism and the urgent need for a future that honors and restores the community's heritage.
Aug 17, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: The rise of caste influencers in India
Divya Arya, a Delhi correspondent focused on social issues, and Laura García, a journalist from BBC Mundo, dive into the rise of caste influencers in India. They explore how young women are embracing 'caste pride' on social media, reshaping perceptions in a traditionally rigid caste system. Topics include the challenges of inter-caste marriage, women's empowerment within caste dynamics, and the ongoing struggles faced by lower caste individuals. Meanwhile, García shares heartwarming stories from a Paris retirement home, where elderly women connect with Olympic athletes.
Aug 17, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Life in Venezuela
The podcast dives into the turmoil following Venezuela's contentious elections, showcasing personal stories from those within the country and abroad. A poignant tale unfolds as a mother remaining in Venezuela reveals her fears and hopes, contemplating an escape route from her home. The emotional struggles of families divided by migration are explored, highlighting their enduring love for their homeland. Amidst economic hardship and political repression, a sense of unity and resilience among the youth emerges, reflecting a shared longing for change.
Aug 16, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Muslim sex education
Muti’ah and Angelica, advocates dedicated to empowering Muslim women with knowledge about healthy and safe sex lives, discuss the vital importance of sex education within their communities. They navigate the challenges of addressing taboo topics, emphasizing the need for safe spaces for open dialogue. They share personal experiences of overcoming societal stigma and the intersection of faith and education, all while advocating for understanding and empowerment in navigating sexual health. Their mission is to foster respectful and informative conversations that challenge misconceptions.
Aug 15, 2024 • 27min
India's fight against TB
The podcast discusses India's daunting battle against tuberculosis, revealing that one person dies from TB every 90 seconds in the country. Personal stories highlight misconceptions and healthcare challenges. An innovative 'spit-seek' test promises quick identification of drug-resistant strains, which could significantly improve treatment. Increasing awareness is transforming stigma into advocacy, with 'TB champions' leading the charge. Ultimately, the conversation raises concerns about meeting the ambitious goal of eradicating TB by 2025.
Aug 14, 2024 • 23min
Solutions Journalism: The art of air pollution
Air pollution causes millions of deaths yearly, sparking innovative artistic responses. One standout is the Smog Free Tower in Abu Dhabi, capturing 30,000 cubic meters of air per hour and turning smog into jewelry. Meanwhile, AIR INK transforms airborne pollutants into usable ink, merging creativity and environmental advocacy. The dialogue also touches on the mental health impacts of air quality, the importance of community initiatives, and how art can drive climate action. It's a fascinating exploration of creativity meeting a global crisis.
8 snips
Aug 13, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: Rejecting Public Education in Arizona
Explore the surge in the parents' revolution against public education in Arizona and beyond. Delve into the heated debates surrounding Universal School Vouchers, examining family motivations and the implications for the future of schooling. A mother shares her homeschooling journey, highlighting Education Savings Accounts that cater to individual needs. Discover how parental concerns about inclusivity and traditional values shape educational choices, and the broader effects of privatization on public education funding and social cohesion.
Aug 12, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Munch on the move
Edvard Munch, the renowned Norwegian artist famous for his iconic painting The Scream, shares insights into the art world. He discusses the groundbreaking exhibition Edvard Munch: Trembling, showcasing his vibrant landscapes. The podcast reveals the meticulous efforts behind traveling exhibitions, from careful packing of artworks like The Cabbage Field to ensuring smooth customs transitions. Listeners get a rare glimpse into the logistics that enable masterpieces to journey across continents, highlighting the dedication of art professionals in making this happen.
Aug 11, 2024 • 26min
'Indocumentados’: America’s undocumented migrants
Discover the lives of seven million undocumented migrants in the U.S., particularly from Latin America. Hear powerful stories like Maria's, who wakes up at 5 am without any workplace benefits. Learn about Delmi's experiences using false papers for survival and Toño's journey as an unaccompanied minor. Explore the cultural contributions of these communities amid fears of deportation and financial instability. The podcast highlights both the struggles and celebrations of undocumented families, revealing their resilience in challenging circumstances.
Aug 10, 2024 • 19min
The Fifth Floor: Vietnam's matchmakers
Thoung Lee, an investigative reporter from BBC Vietnamese, sheds light on the controversial matchmaking agencies in Vietnam. She discusses the staggering trend of Vietnamese women marrying foreigners, exploring the cultural and economic motivations behind these unions. The conversation dives into the vulnerabilities faced by women during this process and the challenges within cross-cultural marriages. Lee shares gripping stories of both success and adversity, offering a nuanced perspective on love in a profit-driven matchmaking industry.
