

Global News Podcast
BBC World Service
The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 6, 2024 • 12min
Donald Trump declares victory in US presidential election
Donald Trump, the former and current US president and a polarizing figure known for his business ventures, discusses his dramatic electoral comeback. He highlights key promises and the historical significance of his victory announcement after a contentious election. The jubilant atmosphere of his supporters contrasts sharply with the Democrats’ response. Trump also delves into the implications of voter sentiments on inflation and immigration, and shares insights on his unconventional media strategies that have shifted political campaigning.

4 snips
Nov 2, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: Marrying the man who saved my life
A chance encounter between Charlotte and Dave during a crisis led to a life-changing bond and their eventual marriage. The podcast also shares a powerful reunion between a son and father separated for 19 years, filled with emotion and reconciliation. Highlights include the heartwarming story of friends meeting weekly for over 56 years in a Yorkshire pub. Additionally, it explores initiatives in Kenya where barbers facilitate mental health conversations, showcasing the role of music in bridging cultural connections and fostering emotional well-being.

7 snips
Oct 25, 2024 • 32min
Former Ugandan rebel jailed for 40 years for war crimes
Former commander in rebel Lord's Resistance Army, Thomas Kwoyelo, sentenced to 40 years for war crimes in Uganda. Also: The tortured monkey released back into the wild, and a scientific breakthrough in eco production.

31 snips
Oct 20, 2024 • 39min
US Presidential Election - your questions answered
Delve into the fascinating backgrounds of the presidential candidates, revealing how their early experiences shape their political identities. Examine the polarized landscape of U.S. elections, and discuss the looming threats to election security following the January 6th events. Discover the intricate dynamics of campaign finance, especially regarding gender, as well as the complications of immigration policy. Finally, explore how the election outcome could impact international relations and pivotal global issues like climate change.

12 snips
Oct 19, 2024 • 34min
Israeli PM's home targeted by Hezbollah drone
Rowan Bridge, a Washington correspondent, shares insights on the latest Middle Eastern tensions as the Israeli Prime Minister's home is attacked by a Hezbollah drone. He discusses the implications of this situation on regional stability and the critical humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The conversation also highlights the striking Boeing workers' potential pay deal. In a lighter twist, Bridge reflects on a study revealing how video games can boost cognitive skills, perhaps even more effectively than exercise!

Oct 19, 2024 • 26min
The Happy Pod: The teenager faster than a calculator
Meet Aaryan Shukla, a 14-year-old mental math prodigy who has astounded audiences with his ability to perform complex calculations in seconds. He shares his journey and passion for numbers, revealing the dedication behind his Guinness World Records title. Joining him is Dr. Mary McCormack, an oncologist spearheading a clinical trial that shows a remarkable 40% reduction in cervical cancer mortality rates. Together, they shine a light on groundbreaking advancements in healthcare while celebrating the cultural richness of community festivals.

Oct 4, 2024 • 30min
Iran's top cleric defends strikes on Israel in rare public speech
Iran's supreme leader publicly defends missile strikes on Israel, framing them as legitimate. The tensions in Tehran reflect broader regional support for militias amid ongoing conflicts. Innovations in AI search from Google and a revolutionary ovarian cancer vaccine are also discussed. The podcast touches on labor strikes in the U.S. for better wages and dives into Arctic research with the Tara Polar Station's mission against climate change. Humorous journalist blunders round off a captivating mix of serious and light-hearted topics.

4 snips
Sep 28, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: The young people changing the world
At the One Young World summit in Canada, young leaders showcase their innovative solutions to pressing social issues. Hear the inspiring story of a 22-year-old MP representing New Zealand, and discover how one woman uses AI to combat cyberbullying. Learn about biodegradable sanitary pads aimed at tackling menstrual poverty. A teenage mother turned CEO shares her remarkable journey, while photography is highlighted as a powerful tool for advocating human rights. Together, these changemakers prove that youth can drive significant positive change worldwide.

Sep 21, 2024 • 27min
The Happy Pod: AI offers blind runners more freedom
Discover the transformative power of AI as it enables visually impaired runners to conquer marathons with newfound independence. Hear inspiring tales of a blind runner's journey and a mobile health initiative in South Africa delivering care via a train. Enjoy a heartwarming story about a golden retriever spreading joy to waste collectors, and marvel at a unique diplomatic job share that balances family and career. These uplifting anecdotes showcase resilience, community, and the positive impacts of technology in everyday lives.

Aug 18, 2024 • 26min
Bonus: The Global Story - Is Twitch too big to fail?
Tom Gerken, a BBC technology reporter, and Stefan Powell, former BBC News gaming correspondent, dive into the future of Twitch, the leading live-streaming platform. They discuss its massive audience of 240 million and the profitability struggles faced by parent company Amazon. The duo explores the platform's unique features, monetization difficulties, and the impact of recent layoffs. With rising competition from YouTube, they ponder whether Twitch can adapt to changing market dynamics or if it’s on a path to decline.


