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
May 23, 2024 • 27min
Denmark's esports revolution
Exploring Denmark's esports revolution, the podcast dives into the competitive gaming scene, schools integrating gaming into education, personal and educational aspects of gaming, community building in esports, and the landscape of esports in Denmark.
May 22, 2024 • 23min
Trending: Long Covid: Think yourself well?
Exploring the controversial Lightning Process for Long Covid treatment, its impact on chronic illness recovery, and the psychological aspects of persistent symptoms. Investigating the debate between alternative therapies and medical skepticism, with a focus on finding effective treatments for Long Covid.
May 21, 2024 • 28min
Assignment: The Caspian crisis
Explore the crisis facing the Caspian Sea, with receding shorelines and falling sea levels. Hear from activists and researchers in Kazakhstan on the environmental and social impacts. Learn about the decline of Caspian seals, challenges for the fishing community, and efforts to prevent an environmental disaster.
May 20, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Zoë Barrett and Patrick Eley
Design experts Zoë Barrett and Patrick Eley discuss their unique approach to creating efficient signage that guides visitors through complex spaces. They emphasize the importance of clear directions, calm atmospheres, and attention to detail in enhancing the museum experience. The conversation also delves into their current project at Paisley Museum, client feedback, and the balance between functionality and aesthetics in wayfinding design.
May 19, 2024 • 41min
Bonus: The Global Jigsaw
Exploring Chinese influence in Nairobi, showcasing China's presence in infrastructure and media. Discussing China's aid initiatives in Africa through a fictional soap opera. Delving into China's diplomatic and economic strategies in Africa. Investigating the expansion of Chinese media agencies in Africa and their impact on local narratives. Highlighting the complexities of Chinese-African cooperation and perceptions in Nairobi's Chinatown.
14 snips
May 19, 2024 • 48min
Labelling the world: The power of DSM
Exploring the controversy and impact of mental disorder labels, including the evolution and consequences of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Discussing how labels can provide answers and support but also lead to stigma and over-medication. Questioning the necessity of labels in everyday life and suggesting a shift away from the terms 'mental' and 'disorder'.
May 18, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Message in a bottle to North Korea
A defector from North Korea, Park Jung-oh, sends bottles filled with rice and USB sticks to North Korea. Rachel Lee shares his story. Madina Dahiru Maishanu from BBC Hausa talks about her show. Plus, Thomas Naadi discusses Stevie Wonder's connection with Ghana.
May 18, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: The floods in Brazil
A documentary on the recent devastating floods in southern Brazil, detailing the impact on communities, rescue efforts, and the resilience of individuals facing challenges. Personal accounts shed light on the emotional strain and unity within the community during the crisis.
May 17, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Glorifying God through wine
Father Père Basile, a monk in France, shares his journey from a life of wealth to the cloistered abbey where he produces wine. The podcast delves into the history of the papal vineyard, the monks' dedication to prayer and solitude, and their devotion to glorifying God through their winemaking endeavors.
May 16, 2024 • 26min
Bonus: The Global Story
Discover how the EncroChat network exposed a UK crime family, leading to disruptions in drug smuggling and hitman hires. Explore the challenges of investigating secretive crime families, uncover international crimes, and the use of Anchor Chat messages as key evidence in criminal cases.
