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
Apr 27, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Ukrainian aid from the US
Americans raise $61bn aid for Ukraine, supporting war effort with vehicles, medical aid, and art therapy. Charities in Texas and North Carolina aid injured soldiers and refugees. Focus on holistic healing through art therapy and skills development. Ongoing support with advanced resources like drones despite conflict not in limelight.
Apr 26, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: The whale worshippers of Vietnam
Discover the whale-worshipping culture of Vietnam, where whales are revered as ocean gods. Learn about whale temples, ceremonies, and a festival honoring these sacred creatures. Follow the lives of fishermen entwined with the sea, seeking protection from the whale god for a safe return home.
Apr 25, 2024 • 33min
Super-rich Swedes
Stockholm-based journalist Maddy Savage explores the rise of billionaires in Sweden, diving into the booming tech sector, impact investing, and cultural attitudes towards wealth. The podcast discusses societal impact, tax policies, and the evolution of Sweden's financial landscape, shedding light on the changing views on wealth and success in the country.
11 snips
Apr 24, 2024 • 49min
Forward Thinking: Can feminism fix the internet?
AI researcher Kerry McInerney discusses applying feminism to tech, tackling deepfakes, online harassment, and tailoring AI for local applications. She emphasizes the need for corporate responsibility in addressing online abuse, highlighting the societal, political, and psychological dimensions. The podcast explores the intersection of feminism and technology, ethics in AI, and the importance of reshaping tech futures with feminist perspectives.
Apr 23, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: Armenia's lost garden
Armenia's lost garden explores the aftermath of Azerbaijan retaking Karabakh, the resilience of refugees, and the longing for peace amidst conflict. The podcast delves into personal stories, national identity, and the challenges faced by displaced Armenians.
Apr 22, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: David Haig and Max Webster
Writer David Haig and director Max Webster discuss the stage adaptation of Philip K. Dick's 'The Minority Report'. They explore themes of pre-crime, mutants, and a dystopian justice system in a futuristic London setting. The podcast delves into the challenges of blending sci-fi with traditional theatre and creating a unique movement language for the stage. Get a peek behind the scenes of crafting futuristic car crashes and evolving movement sequences for the upcoming theatre production.
Apr 21, 2024 • 16min
Bonus: What in the World: South Korea’s shamans are now online
Korean shamans are breaking stereotypes as they modernize their practices, utilizing social media for consultations. BBC journalist Soo Min Kim delves into the cultural significance of shamans in Korean society and their evolving portrayal in media. The podcast explores the intersection of ancient shamanic traditions and contemporary society, shedding light on the reasons why people seek guidance from shamans.
Apr 20, 2024 • 26min
The Fifth Floor: My emergency kit list
Juna Moon discusses young people's perceptions of war in South Korea. Joy Chang shares earthquake preparedness in Taiwan. Hernando Álvarez shares life advice from Gabriel García Márquez. The podcast explores emergency kits, war preparedness, and classic literature lists.
Apr 20, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Living in Israel
Three Israeli residents, Avi, Lianne, and Liah, share personal experiences living through ongoing attacks in Israel including Iran's involvement and the impact of the Hamas-led attack. They discuss the emotional challenges, resilience, and the complexities faced in protecting civilians amidst conflict.
Apr 19, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Should I change my name?
Robert Beckford, struggling with his inherited slave surname, contemplates changing it for a more spiritual alternative. The podcast explores the conflict between negative connotations, Christian beliefs, and personal identity, touching on the significance of names in cultural heritage and the transformative power of reclaiming ancestral roots.
