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
Sep 30, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: War and fatigue in Ukraine
Exploring the challenges faced by Ukraine in the ongoing war, including conscription, decreasing army numbers, and the impact on mental and physical health. Discussing the constant anxiety and uncertainty experienced in a war zone and the emotional toll of the conflict. Highlighting the importance of unbiased journalism, the personal impact on journalists, and the power of their work.
Sep 29, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: The Hare Krishna MC
Jake Emlyn, a former mentee of Robbie Williams and featured artist on major albums, shares his transformative journey from the music industry to becoming the world's number one Hare Krishna rapper. Exploring his doubts, challenges in representation, and the power of spiritual sound, Jake reflects on his authentic path as a Hare Krishna devotee and rapper.
Sep 28, 2023 • 28min
Germany: Jail for fare-dodging
Discover the consequences of fare-dodging in Berlin and the campaign to end imprisonment for it. Follow a recovering heroin addict's experience in prison and the challenges of imprisoning people for minor offenses. Dive into the mission of the Freedom Fund to abolish the criminalization of fare-dodging.
Sep 26, 2023 • 27min
Donor babies: A question of identity
Discover the emotional and psychological impact on donor-conceived individuals as they uncover their true biological origins. Hear personal stories of individuals finding out about their donor-conception and the impact it had on their identity and family relationships. Explore the experiences of individuals who have found their half-siblings through DNA testing and the impact on their sense of self and family dynamics. Learn about the complex emotions and decisions surrounding the disclosure of donor conception to children and the importance of knowing the truth.
Sep 25, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Ken Loach: The Sequel
Join filmmaker Ken Loach and his team as they navigate through the challenges and surprises of filming The Old Oak. Explore the portrayal of Syrian refugees, the loss of crew members, and the emotional reactions to the first screening.
Sep 23, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: The floods in Libya
Survivors of the floods in Libya share their harrowing experiences and the challenges in estimating casualties. Individuals involved in assisting flood victims discuss their efforts in evacuation, rescue, and providing medical assistance. The chapter also explores the challenges faced in delivering supplies to affected areas, the personal impact of the disaster, and the tragic stories of survival and loss. Libyan citizens reflect on the aftermath, calling for accountability, highlighting protests, and emphasizing the need for international support in rebuilding and rehabilitation.
Sep 22, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Poland's nuns lifting the veil
Poland's nuns are speaking out about abuse and leaving their religious communities. A former nun, Izabela Moscicka, shares her journey of leaving the church and the challenges faced by nuns who choose to leave. The podcast also discusses the difficulties in reporting abuse and the lack of support from higher authorities. It highlights the need for a support center for nuns and former nuns seeking assistance and refuge.
Sep 21, 2023 • 29min
How a war has changed a Norwegian town
A small Norwegian town near the Russian border has been dramatically affected by the war in Ukraine, with economic decline and restrictions on cross-border trade. Despite being a NATO member, Norway has kept the border open, but increased security measures raise concerns of Russian spying. The town of Kirkenes now houses Ukrainian refugees and Russian journalists escaping media clampdown. The podcast explores the experiences of rangers stationed on the border, potential military use of civilian boats, and the impact of the war on the town's residents.
Sep 19, 2023 • 27min
Cricket and the maidens
The podcast explores the Women's India Premier League, its impact on single women, and broader changes in Indian society. It discusses the rapid growth and impact of the league, challenges faced by single women in India, the power of solidarity and women's groups, and the transformative impact of women's cricket in challenging norms and empowering women.
Sep 18, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Vhils
Vhils, a Portuguese artist known for his bas-relief carving technique, discusses his process of creating striking murals. He talks about engraving a 31 meter mural at UNESCO headquarters, his unique carving technique using unconventional tools, the significance of light and shadows in his work, and the secret of carving hidden images into the wall.
