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 11, 2024 • 16min
Bonus: What in the World
Botswana, the world leader in elephant conservation, faces challenges with the growing elephant population causing conflicts with humans. Controversial trophy hunting generates income for conservation efforts but sparks debates on cruelty. Germany's proposed restrictions on importing hunting trophies incite backlash. The podcast delves into the complexities of managing elephant populations and the ethical dilemmas surrounding conservation efforts.
Apr 10, 2024 • 49min
Forward Thinking: Jocelyn Bell Burnell
Jocelyn Bell Burnell, who discovered the Pulsar but didn't receive the Nobel Prize, emphasizes the need for more diversity in space research. In a conversation with Nuala McGovern, they discuss the importance of different perspectives in advancing science and exploring the cosmos globally.
Apr 9, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: New Caledonia - new agreement needed
Discover the challenges of crafting a new agreement for governance in New Caledonia, an island with a rich history as a penal colony and naval base. Dive into the clash of rights between French settlers and indigenous Kanak, explore the impact of nickel mining on culture and economics, and reflect on the complexities of cultural identity and societal tensions in the region.
Apr 8, 2024 • 27min
In the Studio: Ellie Simmonds
Paralympic gold medallist Ellie Simmonds explores the design and importance of swimming pools. She joins award-winning Dutch architects for the Paris 2024 Aquatic Centre project. Topics include sustainability, accessibility, and the role of public pools in promoting community health and fitness.
Apr 7, 2024 • 53min
El Salvador's missing children
The podcast explores the heartbreaking stories of children separated during El Salvador's civil war, including a woman raised in France searching for her birth family, a young woman entangled in Marxist guerrillas' world, and a man reuniting with his biological family after years apart. It delves into the emotional impact of adoption, identity crisis, and the journey of individuals trying to piece together their past amidst trauma and uncertainty.
Apr 6, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: My Ramadan
Asif Farooqi, Aalia Farzan, and Deena Easa discuss the impact of conflict, natural disasters, and Covid-19 on Ramadan. Topics include Ramadan cricket, marriage during the Holy Month, and popular TV shows. The podcast showcases diverse Ramadan traditions, cultural significance of foods, reporting challenges in Gaza, and heartwarming family visits during Eid celebrations.
Apr 6, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Living with cancer
Young women worldwide share their candid experiences with cancer diagnosis, highlighting the emotional impact, challenges in communication, and the importance of maintaining hope. Stories of survivors battling cancer at a young age emphasize the need for early detection and adapting to new realities. The podcast also delves into the complexities of discussing cancer with children and navigating life with stage four breast cancer while staying positive and resilient.
Apr 5, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: The caste faultlines in Modi’s India
Exploring caste dynamics in Modi's India, the podcast discusses the pride and challenges of Brahmins, social media advocacy for Dalits, and the intersection of caste and Hindu nationalism. It highlights efforts towards a unified society free from caste barriers and the complexities within Indian society.
Apr 4, 2024 • 27min
Azovstal: The 80 day siege
Experience the harrowing tales of survival at the Azovstal steelworks during an 80-day siege, where residents faced constant bomb threats, food shortages, and the choice between self-preservation and helping others. The podcast delves into the daily struggles, resilience, and emotional aftermath of the survivors, showcasing the indomitable spirit amidst desperation and uncertainty.
Apr 3, 2024 • 49min
Forward Thinking: Is it ethical to live longer?
Nobel prize winning scientist Venki Ramakrishnan discusses the potential of life-extending treatments for diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's, raising questions on affordability and quality of life. The podcast explores the ethical dilemmas of increasing lifespan, societal implications of aging, and the feasibility of living indefinitely through body part replacements. It also touches on intergenerational dynamics, political influence on lifespan limits, and the societal obsession with immortality.
