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
Jun 14, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: Last Christians of Gaza
George Antone, a member of the only Roman Catholic Church in Gaza, shares his experiences of staying in Gaza City during war, leading the parish through hardships. Topics include seeking safety in the church, challenges of obtaining food supplies, an urgent plea for assistance, and resilience in rebuilding the community.
Jun 12, 2024 • 20min
Trending: The Kenyan influencer championing climate denial
Kenyan farmer Jusper Machogu, a 'climate sceptic', gains social media following for spreading climate denial. His views attract Western climate deniers and raise concerns about being influenced by fossil fuel industry. The podcast explores the danger of his message and the impact on climate change perspectives in Africa.
Jun 11, 2024 • 26min
Assignment: Ireland’s phone-free town
A town in Ireland made headlines for banning smartphones until kids turn 12, sparking a conversation on phone-free policies. The negative impact of social media on children and the challenges of regulating tech companies are discussed. Parents and teens share their views on internet safety and the need for stricter regulations on online platforms to protect young users.
Jun 10, 2024 • 27min
In the Studio: Senua's Saga - Hellblade II
Melina Juergens, Bafta-winning actor from Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, discusses the development of the sequel, Senua's Saga: Hellblade II. The podcast delves into performance capture, combat scene recording, game development challenges, and immersive player experience. They also touch on personal growth, mental health advocacy, and the impact of challenging roles on conversations about mental health.
Jun 9, 2024 • 26min
Greening the Hajj
The podcast explores the environmental impact of the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, addressing the challenges of greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, and sustainability. It discusses efforts to implement greener practices, such as recycling plastic waste and promoting eco-friendly initiatives. The debate on using virtual reality for the Hajj experience and contrasting modern pilgrimages with traditional eco-friendly practices are also highlighted.
Jun 9, 2024 • 49min
The forgotten people of the Ravi River
Residents living near the Ravi River struggle daily due to the lack of a permanent bridge separating them from essential services. The historical division of the river during The Partition of 1947 has left communities with limited access to healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The podcast explores the challenges faced by villagers, their reliance on a temporary pontoon bridge, and the efforts of a politician to bring hope through advocating for bridge construction.
Jun 8, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Stories from Mexico
Mexico's first female President Claudia Sheinbaum faces challenges with criminal cartels and safety concerns. Stories of fear, migration, and hopes for change are shared by citizens. Women feel unsafe, families impacted by violence, and doubts about significant change despite a woman in power.
Jun 7, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: Losing my religion
Join Kamsy and Ore as they navigate the taboo of questioning their evangelical Christian upbringing in Nigeria, leading to the creation of a WhatsApp group for like-minded individuals seeking spiritual connection beyond traditional beliefs. Explore the challenges of religious trauma, evolving spiritual identities, and the journey towards self-acceptance and love within 'The Table' community.
Jun 6, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: For the love of football
Argentinian, Iranian, and Kenyan journalists discuss the universal language of football, exploring personal connections and cultural insights. They reflect on diplomatic relations through a match between Iran and USA, unpack football rivalries, and share predictions for the Euros. BBC Pidgin contributor talks about Nigerian players adapting to a new national anthem.
Jun 6, 2024 • 13min
Bonus: What in the world - Africa and FGM: When will it end?
Hibo Wardere, a survivor of FGM, shares her story and emphasizes the role of education in ending the practice. Esther Ogola discusses The Gambia's potential reversal of FGM ban. Kenya's success in reducing FGM victims is highlighted, along with the UN's goal to end the practice by 2030.
