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 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.
18 snips
Nov 3, 2023 • 28min
Heart and Soul: Finding Falun Gong
The podcast explores the Falun Gong movement, discussing its claims of persecution by the Chinese government and its spiritual beliefs. It includes personal stories of healing through Falun Gong, the dilemma of seeking medical treatment, the belief in humans coming from outside Earth, and the resilience of the movement despite suppression.
Nov 2, 2023 • 28min
Assignment: Taught to fear - corporal punishment in the classroom
Investigation into the ongoing issue of corporal punishment in Kenyan schools, including the tragic deaths and severe abuse suffered by students. Interviews with victims, families seeking justice, and teachers advocating against violence in the classroom.
Nov 1, 2023 • 28min
The Raspberry Visa
Exploring life for berry pickers in Odemira, Portugal and their quest for a 'Raspberry Visa'. Investigating allegations of exploitative working conditions and unhealthy housing. Challenges faced by Nepalese workers and their journey to Portugal. Transformation of Alentajo region into a berry farm with migrant labor. Risks and high costs for Nepalese migrants.
Oct 30, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Kieran Stanley - Designing a Zoo
Zoo designer Kieran Stanley, passionate about animal welfare, discusses the fascinating process behind creating immersive and realistic zoo environments. He explores the secretive 'Zoo India' project and the roles within the architecture and landscape architecture teams. The challenges of designing a zoo in Gujarat, India, and the balance between enriching environment and visitor experience are highlighted. The importance of emotional connections, creativity, and conservation in zoo design are also discussed.
Oct 28, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: Jewish-Palestinian couples
The podcast explores the experiences of Jewish-Palestinian couples and their mixed cultural relationships. It delves into the challenges faced in Israel, the importance of heritage, and the impact of recent conflicts. The discrimination faced by Arab Americans and Palestinians, as well as the definition of genocide, are also discussed. Emotional personal experiences from Gaza residents are shared, along with a promotion for another podcast focusing on finding children lost in war-torn Syria.
Oct 27, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: The New York Supreme Court's first female Hasidic judge
Rachel Freier, a woman from a Hasidic Jewish community, defied cultural norms and became the Supreme Court's first female Hasidic judge. Despite discouragement, she balanced her strong religious beliefs and a demanding career. She shares her journey, the challenges she faced, and the impact of her achievement on the community. This program explores her home, the unique customs of the Hasidic community, and the fear of being seen as an outcast. It also discusses the influence of her success on young Hasidic girls, emphasizing cultural pride and values.
Oct 26, 2023 • 27min
Assignment: The Life, Death and Rebirth of a Russian Theatre
Follow Tatiana Frolova, a theatre director from Soviet Far East, as she creates the first independent theatre in the Soviet Union. Explore the challenges faced by Tatiana and her troupe due to political events and their exile. Learn about their new play touring Europe, reflecting on their experiences and loss. Discover the impact and legacy of the 37-year-old theatre in Russia amidst war. This podcast provides honest explanations of global events.
Oct 24, 2023 • 38min
Africa's urban future: What next?
The podcast explores the future of Africa's swelling cities and the challenges of rapid urbanization. It discusses the implications of climate change on African cities and the need for effective management. It highlights the efforts of African countries in combating climate change and the struggles faced by slum dwellers. The chapter concludes with insights on the future of urbanization in Africa and recommends two other podcasts.
Oct 23, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: PAC NYC
Explore the significance of PAC NYC's location near the 9/11 memorial, the unique design and construction of the building with high marble walls and custom chandeliers, flexible theater spaces and seating capacities, upcoming events including the first commissioned music theater work and a production of Cats, and the challenges of audience membership sales and preparations for premieres of commissioned artists' works.
