

The Documentary Podcast
BBC World Service
Hear the voices at the heart of global stories. Where curious minds can uncover hidden truths and make sense of the world. The best of documentary storytelling from the BBC World Service.
From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the front line of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.
Each week we dive into the minds of the world’s most creative people, take personal journeys into spirituality and connect people from across the globe to share how news stories are shaping their lives.
From China’s state-backed overseas spending, to on the road with Canada’s Sikh truckers, to the front line of the climate emergency, we go beyond the headlines.
Each week we dive into the minds of the world’s most creative people, take personal journeys into spirituality and connect people from across the globe to share how news stories are shaping their lives.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 20, 2023 • 27min
In The Studio: Damon Galgut - Adapting The Promise for the stage
Damon Galgut, Booker Prize-winning novelist, discusses the adaptation of his novel 'The Promise' for the stage. The podcast explores the challenges of transforming the book's unique narrative voice into a theatrical production. It also delves into the themes of land, race, and restitution in South Africa that are central to the novel. The podcast offers insights into the creative choices made during the adaptation process, including the use of multiple voices, chorus, and audience interaction. It discusses the challenges faced by the actors and the incorporation of sound design in the performance. Overall, it provides an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the journey of bringing 'The Promise' to the stage.

Nov 19, 2023 • 41min
The Debate: Israel Gaza - What happens when the war ends?
Jeremy Bowen, Daniel Levy, Lord Ricketts, and Ghada Karmi join this podcast to discuss the aftermath of the Israel-Gaza conflict, including the challenges in rebuilding, the potential consequences of removing Hamas leadership, advocating for a one-state solution, creating an equal rights regime, and the need for new leadership to prevent further escalation.

Nov 18, 2023 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: Hate against Jews and Muslims
The podcast explores the rise in religious hatred and discrimination due to the conflict between Hamas and Israel. It shares personal experiences of Jews and Muslims facing anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. The increase in hate crimes within the Jewish community and the lack of safety is discussed. The podcast also explores the changing forms of anti-Semitism and promotes a story about a girl fighting for equality in ice hockey teams. It delves into the rise in attacks on Muslims and the impact of Islamophobia. The devastating effects of collective punishment and discrimination against Muslims and Arabs in America and Germany are highlighted.

Nov 17, 2023 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Israel – Gaza: Can interfaith work prevail?
Representatives from different faiths discuss the challenges of peacebuilding in Israel-Palestine. Personal reflections on recent tragic events and the importance of religious perspectives. The complexities of achieving peace and the role of women in peacemaking. Maintaining hope and ongoing violence in Israel and Gaza.

Nov 16, 2023 • 28min
The mighty Mekong’s last hope
Exploring the Mekong River crisis, this podcast discusses the threats of dams and sand dredging, the struggles of fishermen and dwindling fish population, the impact on communities and ancestral villages, the struggles in the flooded forests, and the efforts to protect endangered dolphins in the river.

Nov 15, 2023 • 50min
Tanni's lifetime road to disabled equality
Tanni Grey-Thompson, a multi gold medal winning Paralympic wheelchair athlete, reflects on changing attitudes towards disability worldwide. She discusses her own experiences, including facing discrimination while pregnant, and meets individuals from India, Nigeria, Brazil, and New Zealand who have had similar journeys. The podcast explores challenges in accessing education, issues of accessibility, discrimination faced by individuals with Down syndrome, and struggles in using public transportation. It also highlights the obstacles encountered by disabled women and emphasizes the ongoing pursuit of equality worldwide.

Nov 14, 2023 • 27min
A man without bees
Simon Mitambo, an expert from Kenya's 'Land of Bees', explores the disappearance of bees and its impact on food production. The podcast discusses the decline of bee populations, the harmful effects of neonicotinoid pesticides, and the fear of sharing knowledge about the threat to bees. It also highlights a cultural celebration featuring traditional clothing made from bees, couriers shells, and seeds.

Nov 13, 2023 • 27min
In The Studio: Jenn Lee: Taiwan fashion designer
Taipei-based fashion designer Jenn Lee prepares her Spring Summer 2024 collection, inspired by recycled materials, Vivienne Westwood, and her son. She incorporates reused objects and recycled fabric from a flea market. The collection will feature bold and colorful designs, as well as a collaboration with a video game. The team discusses recreating their studio atmosphere on stage for London Fashion Week and the integration of video games and digital garments into the show. Follow the narrator's backstage experience and get a glimpse into Jenn's plans for Taipei Fashion Week.

Nov 11, 2023 • 25min
BBC OS Conversations: Israeli losses
Israeli families share their experiences and memories of losing loved ones in the Hamas attacks. Hear heartfelt stories of loss, courage, and resilience. The devastating impact of the conflict and the personal toll it takes on families are explored. Don't miss the host's recommendation to listen to last week's episode about Palestinians grieving their losses.

Nov 10, 2023 • 28min
Heart and Soul: Queerly beloved: Same-sex love and the Synod
The podcast explores the ongoing debate within the Anglican Communion about same-sex relationships and marriage. It discusses the proposal to allow same-sex couples to receive blessings in the Church of England, the reactions and tensions within the Anglican community, the challenges faced by same-sex attracted Christians, and the potential split within the church on this issue.


