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 2, 2024 • 29min
Assignment: Secret Sisters. Political prisoners in Belarus
Explore the plight of female political prisoners in Belarus, facing mass arrests and harsh conditions. Learn about the resilience and camaraderie within the prison walls, as women endure humiliation and deprivation. Discover the sacrifices and risks taken by those on the outside to support the imprisoned, showcasing the strength and determination of all involved.
Apr 1, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Maria Grachvogel
Fashion designer Maria Grachvogel, celebrating 30 years in the industry, shares her creative process in designing her autumn 2024 collection. From sketching designs and experimenting with prototype garments to exploring color palettes and fabric swatches, Maria emphasizes empowering women through cut and fit. The podcast also delves into the intricate details of designing figure-hugging dresses and the collaborative effort involved in perfecting garment fit on different body shapes.
Mar 31, 2024 • 44min
Bonus: Lives Less Ordinary
A Jordanian coach shares her journey of starting a refugee kids' football team in the US after being rejected by her family. The podcast discusses her childhood, defiance of gender norms, early realization of sexuality, and finding hope through role models. It also highlights her strategy of enforcing academic excellence for team performance and building strong bonds through soccer, emphasizing community empowerment and growth.
Mar 30, 2024 • 32min
Bonus: The Global Jigsaw: Moscow attack: disinfo wars
The podcast delves into the aftermath of a concert venue attack in Russia, exploring narratives of blame and disinformation surrounding the incident. It examines the manipulation of the attack to push specific agendas, including allegations against Ukraine and suspicions of a false flag operation. The episode also analyzes Kremlin propaganda, IS ideology, Tajikistan's response to extremism reports, challenges faced by Central Asian migrant workers in Russia, and the disputed narratives and brutal realities surrounding the Moscow attack.
Mar 30, 2024 • 30min
BBC OS Conversations: Messages from Gaza
BBC OS Conversations: Messages from Gaza discusses the experiences of young women in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war, showcasing their resilience, loss, and challenges through personal voice messages. Stories depict the fear, suffering, and desperation faced by individuals in Gaza, emphasizing the need for global attention. A journalist shares struggles of life in Gaza, while a woman documents her escape to a refugee camp. Gazans exhibit unwavering resilience amidst conflict, with families undertaking risky journeys to find safety.
Mar 29, 2024 • 28min
Heart and Soul: An ‘Encore’ for Jesus
Former Hollywood socialite Mother Antonia Brenner founded a Catholic order of nuns ministering in La Mesa prison, Tijuana. Despite initial Church resistance, Pope John Paul II supported her work. The Eudist sisters, in their 50s and 60s, leave comfortable lives to uplift the poor as an 'encore' for Jesus Christ.
Mar 29, 2024 • 25min
Bonus: HARDtalk
Stephen Sackur interviews newsworthy figures in Guyana, discussing the nation's transition to an oil powerhouse, environmental concerns in the mangrove forests, tensions with Venezuela, economic impacts on the population, and ethical dilemmas of resource exploitation.
Mar 28, 2024 • 28min
Assignment: Choking in Chiang Mai
The podcast explores the severe air pollution crisis in Chiang Mai, Thailand, causing respiratory problems and leading to tragic deaths like Dr. Tai's. It delves into the health risks of PM 2.5 pollution and efforts to address agricultural burning issues. The challenges faced by farmers and the impact on air quality are highlighted, along with innovative solutions and societal implications.
Mar 27, 2024 • 50min
Rwanda 30 years on
Victoria Uwonkunda, survivor of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, returns to her homeland for the first time since fleeing at 12. She meets perpetrators and victims of the violence, witnessing reconciliation efforts like 'Cows for Peace'. The podcast explores the impact of water scarcity, memories of the genocide, and the profound journey of forgiveness and healing in post-genocide Rwanda.
Mar 26, 2024 • 33min
Bonus: The Black 14
A bonus episode discusses the Black 14, African American football players in 1969 Wyoming who took a stand against racism. They faced challenges, formed alliances, and protested discriminatory practices, showcasing the tension between addressing racism and their dedication to football.
