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
Jul 17, 2024 • 40min
Assignment: A slogan and a land, part one
Explore the controversy of the slogan 'From the River to the Sea' amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. Journey across the Israeli-occupied West Bank meeting diverse individuals. Discuss challenges, activism, and the possibility of a one-state solution. Delve into population growth, tensions, and coexistence in Israel.
Jul 16, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: The child rescue con
Adam Whittington, Director of Project Rescue Children, discusses the controversy surrounding the charity's fundraising and rescue operations. The podcast delves into misleading social media posts, the use of children as props, and the lack of actual rescue centers. The investigation uncovers fraudulent practices and exploitation of vulnerable children for personal gain.
Jul 15, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Anchi Lin (Ciwas Tahos)
An interview with Taipei-based artist Anchi Lin (Ciwas Tahos) discussing her Indigenous-inspired multi-media installation, exploring the space of Temahahoi where queer individuals communicated with bees. Combining technology, ceramics, and traditional bee chasing skills, Anchi celebrates her culture and identity through art.
Jul 13, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: The reality of conscription
BBC Ukrainian colleagues discuss the reality of conscription in Ukraine, highlighting challenges faced by civilians and the transformative shift in society. They explore reactions to conscription, safety disparities, music revival, economic impacts, budget aid distribution, and societal division.
Jul 13, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Voters in Britain and France
Exploring voter sentiments in the UK and France after recent elections. Stories from Worthing and Bradford highlight challenges and hopes for the future. Discussions on immigration, education, community support, and political landscapes offer diverse perspectives.
Jul 12, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: How should I remember Mum in Islam?
BBC journalist Rahila Bano discusses breaking from Muslim tradition by honoring her mother's wishes through charity. She reflects on the significance of giving alms, organizing a prayer gathering in her memory, and the misconception of 'khatams'. The podcast explores memories of her mother's kindness, the impact of charity in her honor, and the Bhasin Foundation's projects in Pakistan.
Jul 11, 2024 • 26min
Shaken goalposts
Star player Christian Atsu from Hatayspor is featured in a podcast discussing their team's resilience after a devastating earthquake in Turkey. The podcast showcases the team's fight to survive in the Super Lig amidst chaos and destruction, highlighting their unwavering hope and unity through football.
Jul 10, 2024 • 19min
Trending: The scammers who make you kidnap yourself
Explore the disturbing trend of scammers in China tricking students abroad into faking their own kidnappings for ransom. Learn about the psychological manipulation tactics used and the dark world of criminal networks. Discover how technology like deepfake videos and AI are used in these elaborate scams.
Jul 9, 2024 • 27min
In the Studio: Wendy Sharpe
Award-winning artist Wendy Sharpe is breaking conventions by painting directly onto walls and installing herself in the gallery for her new exhibition. The podcast explores her diverse artistic experiences, creative process, collaborative projects, and the transformation of an art gallery into a unique studio space. Sharpe's upcoming exhibition features an imaginative labyrinth theme where real and imagined elements converge, offering visitors an immersive experience.
Jul 8, 2024 • 26min
Assignment: Cry witch - take my land, take my life
Investigative journalist Njeri Nwangi delves into the brutal attacks on alleged witches in Kenya, shedding light on the underlying motives and impunity. The podcast explores the tragic consequences of false accusations, land disputes, and escalating violence targeting elderly individuals. It highlights the intertwining realities of witchcraft beliefs, unemployment, and lack of land documentation in a chilling narrative of fear, sacrifice, and uncertainty.
