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
Aug 24, 2023 • 28min
Belize's blue bond
Belize faced a debt crisis, with an American NGO offering to restructure their debt in exchange for conservation efforts. The 'blue bond' created controversy, with concerns about NGO influence and offshore oil exploration. Fragments of Hope successfully restored Belize's reef. Fishing bans and exclusion of fisher organizations were challenges faced, but Belize became a conservation-focused country.
Aug 23, 2023 • 24min
Back to school: Supporting neuro-divergent students through LARP
Exploring how LARPing is used as a teaching tool for neurodiverse students, and the positive outcomes observed. The unique teaching approach of the Eusto School in Denmark, where all subjects are taught through games and play. The concept of neurodiversity and how it impacts neurodiverse individuals in traditional learning environments. The benefits of LARP as a safe space for neurodiverse students to explore different social roles and reduce anxiety.
Aug 21, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Nicola Benedetti
World famous violinist Nicola Benedetti becomes Director of the Edinburgh International Festival. She discusses her decisions for her first programme, featuring over 2000 artists from 48 countries. The challenges faced on opening night include standing ovations and critics' five-star reviews.
Aug 20, 2023 • 50min
The famine at the edge of the ocean
Madagascar's worst famine in 30 years caused by drought and cyclones; climate scientists debate global warming's role; challenges of combating malnutrition and poor infrastructure; desperate measures taken by parents to keep children alive; corruption allegations and the struggle to provide food assistance; desperation and hope in underdeveloped town; child trafficking in Icongo; reflection on the food crisis and the need for long-term solutions.
Aug 19, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: The fires in Hawaii
A conversation about the devastating Maui wildfire, featuring personal experiences and the impact on the community. Discussion on the destructive effects of a fire in Hawaii, including the loss of a family's ancestral home and the challenges faced by the community. Exploring the community's tradition of coming together to provide aid and support during difficult times. Ella shares the devastating experience of losing her family's home in the fires in Hawaii but also highlights their determination to rebuild and come back stronger.
Aug 18, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: German, soldier, Jew
Shelly Kupferberg explores what it means to be a Jew in the German Armed Forces. The podcast discusses the history and personal experiences of German Jewish soldiers, the challenges they face, and the revival of Jewish military chaplains. It also emphasizes the importance of learning from the past and working towards a better future.
Aug 17, 2023 • 27min
Zimbabwe's worker exodus
Zimbabweans are fleeing their country to find work in the UK, exacerbating the healthcare and education systems crisis. The ruling party's control is unlikely to change despite upcoming elections. The struggling economy, corruption, and underinvestment have led to a mass exodus of highly qualified workers. Zimbabwean teachers gaining status in the UK raises concerns among parents. Rose, a care worker, discusses the challenges of living abroad and staying connected with her family. The deteriorating healthcare system leads to increased sex work and outbreaks of diseases, while the education system suffers from low teacher salaries and lack of resources.
Aug 16, 2023 • 24min
Directing disability
James Martin and Rachel Shenton discuss disability representation in TV and film, the impact of their award wins, and the need for inclusivity. They highlight the progress made in addressing accessibility, adaptations for access needs, and the importance of disabled voices in the industry.
Aug 15, 2023 • 27min
Did big tech know I was gay before I did?
Journalist Ellie House is bisexual. But before she had even realised that, it felt like big tech had already worked it out, with sites like Netflix and TikTok regularly recommending her LGBTQ content. Years later, Ellie goes on a quest to understand how the powerful recommendations systems that big tech companies use really work. She reconstructs her digital fingerprint, and hears from LGBTQ people around the world who are conflicted about the risks and rewards of being queer online.
Aug 14, 2023 • 27min
In the Studio: Christopher and Tammy Kane
Fashion designers and brother and sister duo, Christopher and Tammy Kane have been trendsetters in the fashion world since 2006. They’ve dressed celebrities and world leaders, blending a playful, sexy aesthetic with working-class realism. Now they're launching a brand-new club night in London, the More Joy Disco. But how does their upbringing in a small Scottish village inform the glitz and glamour of their event? And why is joy such a motivating factor for the pair?
