

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

Feb 16, 2020 • 51min
Gospel meets hip-hop
Gospel and hip-hop are merging in the music industry, with artists like Kanye West and Chance the Rapper leading the way. UK rapper Guvna B explores this shift by meeting with gospel legends Donald Lawrence, Kierra Sheard, Lecrae, and Andy Mineo. They discuss the challenges faced in blending Christian themes with hip-hop and the evolution of gospel music in the UK. The podcast delves into the impact of mainstream success on gospel hip-hop artists and the authenticity in music expression.

Feb 15, 2020 • 51min
Reinventing Miss America
Exploring the reinvention of Miss America in the era of #MeToo, with discussions on the removal of the swimsuit competition, empowerment of women, and modernizing the program while preserving tradition. Former contestants and current leadership share insights on evolving beauty pageant culture.

Feb 13, 2020 • 26min
El Salvador: the story of Karla Turcios
El Salvadorean journalist Karla Turcios, who was brutally murdered in 2018, triggers a national crisis with her death highlighting the high rates of femicide in El Salvador. The podcast dives into the criminal case against her husband, shedding light on the challenges of serving justice in a country where femicide often goes unpunished.

Feb 11, 2020 • 28min
Blasian love
Listen to the story of Ithra and Tumelo, two medical students in love, navigating their Blasian relationship in post-apartheid South Africa. Follow their journey, challenges, and the complexities of introducing their families to each other for the first time.

Feb 9, 2020 • 51min
Life on the line
Journalist Tabinda Kokab discusses the emotional impact of living on a fault line. Stories include surviving earthquakes, risks in Istanbul, and earthquake-proofing buildings. The podcast explores living on fault lines in Pakistan and Los Angeles, emphasizing community preparedness and retrofitting homes for safety.

Feb 8, 2020 • 27min
Tony's Freehold Grill: Politics on the side
Journalist Sandra Kanthal visits Tony's Freehold Grill to capture the opinions of regulars on the 2020 presidential election. Topics include the candidates, campaigns, and colorful tales amidst interruptions for coffee and dishes.

Feb 6, 2020 • 26min
Panic in Bulgaria
Explore the mass panic in Bulgarian schools as parents fear child abduction by social workers, sparking protests against a draft law. Unravel the rise of campaigns defending the 'traditional family' and demonizing Western countries like Norway. Investigate the hysteria, fear, and challenges within Bulgarian society surrounding child welfare and societal norms.

Feb 5, 2020 • 28min
Vanuatu’s stolen generation
Exploring the tragic history of Black Birding in Australia, focusing on the coercion and heart-wrenching experiences of Pacific Island slaves. The chapter highlights the devastating impact on families and the enduring collective memory within the community. Tragic tale of Yasu's abduction and its lasting impact, recounting the heart-wrenching tale of a young boy from Vanuatu. Legacy of Blackbirding and resistance in Vanuatu, exploring the cultural impact of a song warning against Australia's exploitation. Exploring the emotional legacy of Blackbirding in Vanuatu through Tom's story at Howling Rock.

Feb 4, 2020 • 28min
Polygamous marriage in modern Malaysia
Malaysia's first female Shariah High Court judge discusses polygamous marriage in Malaysia. The podcast explores diverse perspectives on polygamy, including motivations of women becoming second wives, societal norms, financial dependence, and challenges faced by women. Insights on Quranic interpretations, feminist activism, and personal experiences are highlighted.

Jan 30, 2020 • 27min
Colombia’s new cocaine war
Exploring Colombia's booming cocaine trade, the podcast reveals the dangerous world of narco trafficking, the challenges faced by indigenous communities in resisting criminal groups, and the devastating consequences on innocent individuals. Through interviews and investigations, the narrative delves into the violent realities of the cocaine trade, highlighting the sacrifices made by those caught in the crossfire and the struggles for autonomy and justice amidst a backdrop of escalating violence.


