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
Feb 16, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: The killer's counsel
Forensic psychiatrist Dr. Gwen Adshead discusses therapeutic treatment for violent offenders. She speaks with convicted murderer Erwin James about his life story and the role of Christianity in Adshead's work.
8 snips
Feb 15, 2024 • 28min
Assignment: Tempting fate - Istanbul's earthquake dilemma
Discover the challenges facing Istanbul regarding earthquake risks, including political obstacles and housing inequality. Explore the rising demand for tiny houses and the analysis of concrete strength in buildings. Learn about the government's role in unsafe buildings and urban renewal, as well as the dismissive attitude towards earthquake safety in the city.
Feb 14, 2024 • 19min
Trending: The Mexican mayor and a deepfake scandal
This podcast episode explores a deepfake scandal involving the Mayor of Mexico City. It dives into the debates over the authenticity of an AI-generated audio clip and the proposed regulations to combat AI disinformation in Mexico. The episode investigates the origins of the leaked audio clip, analyzes the challenges of verifying deepfake audio, and discusses the implications of this technology in upcoming elections.
Feb 13, 2024 • 27min
Reporting Greece
Investigation into Greece's media freedom, including journalists' phones being hacked, defamation lawsuits, and surveillance. The murder of an investigative journalist highlights the media crisis in Greece and the need for reform. The European Court of Human Rights proposes compensation, signaling a potential victory for media freedom.
Feb 12, 2024 • 29min
In the Studio: Jon Foreman
Jon Foreman, a land artist known for his mesmerising sculptures that harmonise with nature, discusses the process of creating temporary artwork on a remote beach. He highlights the essentiality of each stone and curve in his harmonious spiral sculptures, and explores the significance of music in the artistic process. The podcast also explores the challenges of working against the tide and the appreciation for the ephemeral nature of his stone formations on a pristine beach.
Feb 11, 2024 • 25min
Bonus: The Global Story
This podcast explores topics such as Taylor Swift's political influence, her economic impact, analyzing English literature through her music, her values and potential impact on the next presidential election, and the challenges faced by artists engaged in politics.
Feb 10, 2024 • 46min
Bonus: Sportshour at the Super Bowl Las Vegas edition
Explore the impact of Taylor Swift's relationship with the NFL and the inspiring story of Shaquem Griffin, an NFL player with only one hand. Learn about the tragic effects of concussions in the NFL and the intersection of pop culture and the sport. Discover the Super Bowl's relationship with the Commander in Chief and enjoy an alternative commentary for younger viewers by SpongeBob SquarePants' friend Patrick Starr.
Feb 10, 2024 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: Deepfake attacks
The podcast explores the concept of deepfakes and their potential to deceive through altered media. It shares examples of explicit fake photos and hoax calls, including a disturbing phone call received by a mother and her daughter. The podcast also discusses a harrowing deepfake kidnapping scam and the impact of a traumatic experience on a family. It takes a deep dive into the history of media manipulation and the dark side of AI-generated content. The escalating issue of deepfake attacks, particularly in the creation of pornographic content, is also discussed.
Feb 9, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Religion in the 21st century - Buddhism (episode 3)
Venerable Canda Theri Bhikkhuni, the only fully ordained bhikkhuni in the UK, along with two other global Buddhists, discuss the decline of Buddhism in traditional countries and its growth in the West, personal journeys to choosing Buddhism, the clash between young westerners and traditional Buddhists, ethics and extremism in Buddhism, the interplay between religion, institution, and race, diversity and inclusivity in Buddhism, and the importance of women reaching full ordination.
Feb 8, 2024 • 28min
Assignment: Is Ireland’s reputation for tolerance under threat?
Explore the challenges to Ireland's reputation for tolerance due to the increase in people seeking protection and asylum. Learn about the impact of external conflicts on the rise of refugees and the housing crisis faced by homeless refugees. Discover the efforts by locals and migrants to maintain a warm community and dispel misconceptions. Hear personal stories of refugees from Ukraine and Nigeria finding a sense of belonging in Ireland.
