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 5, 2024 • 17min
Whose Truth?: Online women haters
Nobel Prize laureate Maria Ressa discusses online hate against powerful women in the Philippines. Lucina Di Meco and Audrey Pe talk about digital threats and empowering women in tech. The podcast explores the challenges faced by women in technology and the fight against gendered attacks online.
Jun 5, 2024 • 17min
Whose Truth?: Climate change denial
Climate change denial is tackled by UK activist Phoebe L. Hanson through Teach the Teacher, while Ugandan activist Nyombi Morris mobilizes youth. Sir Paul Nurse emphasizes science over politics. The impact of denial, challenges in education, and empowering youth to combat misinformation are discussed.
Jun 5, 2024 • 17min
Whose Truth?: Russia v Ukraine
Oleksandra and Anastasiia discuss documenting alleged Russian war crimes and exposing disinformation in Ukraine. Lisa Kaplan shares insights on combating social media manipulation. The podcast explores the impact of Russian disinformation on elections and efforts to counter misinformation in Ukraine.
Jun 5, 2024 • 17min
Whose Truth?: The vaccine
Nobel laureate Katalin Kariko shares her experience battling Covid vaccine misinformation. Educator Young Elder discusses building vaccine trust in Baltimore's black community. Topics include vaccine hesitancy, misinformation impact, and the role of credible sources in combatting falsehoods.
Jun 5, 2024 • 20min
Trending: Is Russia targeting Poland's farmers’ protests?
A viral image from a Polish farmers' protest sparked concerns of Russian influence with a provocative tractor banner. The episode explores the motivations behind the protests, including frustrations with low prices, EU regulations, and climate change. It investigates the alleged involvement of a farmer in the protests and discusses anti-Ukrainian sentiments amidst reports of Russian propaganda in the EU.
Jun 4, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: El Salvador – life after the gangs
Explore the aftermath of the government crackdown on gangs in El Salvador, including the challenges faced by workers in gang-controlled regions and the struggles of families with wrongfully arrested loved ones. Discover the impact of police operations targeting gang members and concerns over excessive power wielded by authorities in combatting gang violence.
Jun 3, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Andy Riley
Andy Riley, acclaimed author and cartoonist, discusses creating his new graphic novel series for children, Action Dude. The podcast dives into the creative process, cover design, and crafting a graphic novel with precision. Riley also shares insights on maintaining creativity, engaging young fans, and teasing upcoming projects.
Jun 1, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Russia's lost troops
Experts Olga Ivshina and Anne McAlpine discuss Russian losses in Ukraine and Gaelic proverbs. They delve into the challenges of monitoring casualties, stories of families seeking information, and the impact of war propaganda. Additionally, the podcast explores the cultural significance and poetic essence of Gaelic proverbs.
Jun 1, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Toxic politics
Heather Williams, a councillor, and Catherine McKenna, a former Canadian government official, discuss the challenges of facing abuse and threats in politics. They share personal stories of intimidation and their experiences navigating toxic political environments. The podcast sheds light on the struggles of balancing parenthood with a political career and the impact of public scrutiny on politicians' families.
May 31, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Hijabs and skinny jeans
Dutch Muslim Nora Akachar reflects on her identity amid political shifts in the Netherlands. She explores balancing traditional values with a progressive lifestyle, reconciling Islamic identity with societal norms, embracing multiple identities, and overcoming fears to speak authentically. The podcast discusses the complexities of cultural connections and navigating dual identities in a changing world.
