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
Nov 16, 2023 • 28min
The mighty Mekong’s last hope
Exploring the Mekong River crisis, this podcast discusses the threats of dams and sand dredging, the struggles of fishermen and dwindling fish population, the impact on communities and ancestral villages, the struggles in the flooded forests, and the efforts to protect endangered dolphins in the river.
Nov 15, 2023 • 50min
Tanni's lifetime road to disabled equality
Tanni Grey-Thompson, a multi gold medal winning Paralympic wheelchair athlete, reflects on changing attitudes towards disability worldwide. She discusses her own experiences, including facing discrimination while pregnant, and meets individuals from India, Nigeria, Brazil, and New Zealand who have had similar journeys. The podcast explores challenges in accessing education, issues of accessibility, discrimination faced by individuals with Down syndrome, and struggles in using public transportation. It also highlights the obstacles encountered by disabled women and emphasizes the ongoing pursuit of equality worldwide.
Nov 14, 2023 • 27min
A man without bees
Simon Mitambo, an expert from Kenya's 'Land of Bees', explores the disappearance of bees and its impact on food production. The podcast discusses the decline of bee populations, the harmful effects of neonicotinoid pesticides, and the fear of sharing knowledge about the threat to bees. It also highlights a cultural celebration featuring traditional clothing made from bees, couriers shells, and seeds.
Nov 13, 2023 • 27min
In The Studio: Jenn Lee: Taiwan fashion designer
Taipei-based fashion designer Jenn Lee prepares her Spring Summer 2024 collection, inspired by recycled materials, Vivienne Westwood, and her son. She incorporates reused objects and recycled fabric from a flea market. The collection will feature bold and colorful designs, as well as a collaboration with a video game. The team discusses recreating their studio atmosphere on stage for London Fashion Week and the integration of video games and digital garments into the show. Follow the narrator's backstage experience and get a glimpse into Jenn's plans for Taipei Fashion Week.
Nov 11, 2023 • 25min
BBC OS Conversations: Israeli losses
Israeli families share their experiences and memories of losing loved ones in the Hamas attacks. Hear heartfelt stories of loss, courage, and resilience. The devastating impact of the conflict and the personal toll it takes on families are explored. Don't miss the host's recommendation to listen to last week's episode about Palestinians grieving their losses.
Nov 10, 2023 • 28min
Heart and Soul: Queerly beloved: Same-sex love and the Synod
The podcast explores the ongoing debate within the Anglican Communion about same-sex relationships and marriage. It discusses the proposal to allow same-sex couples to receive blessings in the Church of England, the reactions and tensions within the Anglican community, the challenges faced by same-sex attracted Christians, and the potential split within the church on this issue.
Nov 9, 2023 • 28min
The Jews and Arabs coexisting in crisis
Exploring Jewish Arab solidarity in Haifa, this podcast discusses the experiences of Palestinian citizens of Israel, the displacement of Palestinians during the creation of Israel, shared struggles and futures, growing up as a minority, and the burden of disappointment in the ongoing conflict.
Nov 7, 2023 • 28min
My Forgotten War
The podcast discusses the struggles of Syrian refugees in Turkey, including the threat of deportation and tensions with locals. It highlights the first-hand account of a Syrian's experience during the civil war and their escape to Turkey. The podcast also explores the thriving business community of Syrian refugees in Essenyeet. It delves into the European Union's failed deal with Turkey to manage the refugee crisis and the challenges faced by Syrian refugees in Turkey, including difficult living conditions and the pressure to return home.
Nov 6, 2023 • 28min
In The Studio: Carol Morley
Filmmaker Carol Morley discusses the challenges of adapting her own novel for the screen, including the difficulties she faced and the emotions it brought back. She also talks about the process of selling a screenplay and waiting for film companies' response. The podcast explores the inspirations for the film, the use of character profiles, and dealing with rejection. It emphasizes the power of self-belief and setting goals in the writing process.
Nov 4, 2023 • 25min
BBC OS Conversations: Palestinian losses
Palestinian guests, Yousef A and an unknown guest, share their heartbreaking conversations about the deaths in their families. They discuss the devastating losses experienced in Gaza and the constant longing to be reunited with loved ones. The chapter also covers the criticism of Israel's actions and the call for detailed media coverage of Palestinian losses.
