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
Oct 12, 2023 • 28min
Assignment: America’s hidden histories
The podcast discusses the replacement of a Confederate monument with a statue of Henrietta Lacks in Virginia. It explores the controversy surrounding Confederate monuments, the unique relationship between black and white people during the Civil War, and efforts to salvage and rededicate these statues. The pulling down of a statue in Richmond is documented and visitor responses are captured at a museum.
Oct 10, 2023 • 32min
Africa's urban future: Tanzania
Explore the challenges and opportunities of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's rapidly growing city. Topics include transportation challenges, impact of the rapid bus system, urban development and congestion, and the future of inclusive growth in Kigamburni.
Oct 9, 2023 • 28min
In the Studio: Anton Skrypets
Anton Skrypets, young producer of the war movie Stay Online, discusses challenges faced during filming in war-torn Ukraine and the scarcity of actors and crew members. They also talk about creating an animated mouse character and the unique genre of the film. They reflect on the pressures of unrealistic work deadlines and their journey to Montreal for a film festival.
Oct 7, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: Fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh
The podcast explores the recent conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh and the mass exodus of Armenians to Armenia. It discusses the emotional struggles faced by individuals fleeing, the challenges of seeking refuge, and the efforts of volunteers providing assistance. Personal accounts of displacement and contrasting experiences during the conflict are shared by displaced individuals.
Oct 6, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Young Catholics on the Francis revolution
Caroline Wyatt, a journalist who brings young Catholics together, discusses the future of the Catholic church. Topics include the impact of Pope Francis's initiative to involve Catholics in shaping the church, perspectives on the role of women and LGBTQ individuals, extending the consultation process, and advice for priests in improving their delivery and engaging with parishioners.
Oct 5, 2023 • 27min
Gabon’s dark football secret
Investigation into Gabon's sexual abuse scandal in football reveals shocking culture of abuse and despair, with claims of silence and complicity. Follow the journey of a coach determined to bring about change. FIFA accused of failing to take effective action over the scandal.
Oct 4, 2023 • 34min
Africa's urban future: Ghana
The podcast explores the future of Africa's rapidly growing cities and the challenges of urbanization. It discusses the implications of urban growth on migration, economy, climate crisis, and African nation-states. The chapter on Accra focuses on urbanization and migration, highlighting the impact on housing and infrastructure. It also explores the role of traditional authorities in national development and raises questions about the future of urban sprawl along West Africa's coast. The podcast concludes by highlighting Africa's potential as an experimental hub for urbanization and city planning.
Oct 3, 2023 • 27min
Will the unicorns of the sea fall silent?
Climate change and human marine activity are threatening the narwhals, known as the unicorns of the sea. The Arctic Ocean's increasing noise levels could lead to extinction of populations by 2025. The podcast explores the political, cultural, and environmental aspects of this issue, featuring scientists, hunters, and activists. It discusses the impacts of melting ice, legislation for protection, hunting traditions, and the need to address the climate crisis for the preservation of narwhals.
Oct 2, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: The visitors
A new production of 'The Visitors' explores the Aboriginal perspective of the first fleet's arrival in Australia. It reflects the current political climate, discussing colonization history, language usage, elder portrayal, and queer relationships. The importance of duty of care and personal connection in the theater industry is highlighted, along with discussions on ancient smoke healing and the Opera House's significance. They also delve into the process of adapting the play into a novel and the historical context it brings.
Oct 1, 2023 • 55min
October 1973: The war that changed everything
The podcast explores the October 1973 war that changed the world, discussing topics such as the use of oil as a political weapon, the rise of Anwar Sadat and Egypt's quest for national pride, the intense battle scenes at the Barlev fortifications, the mindset of commanders during combat and the global implications of the war, the economic challenges of inflation and the fall of governments in the 1970s, the devastating impact on Israeli society, and the social and political changes in Israel since 1973.
