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
May 25, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Life in exile
BBC journalists Shazia Haya and Nina Nazarova share their experiences living in exile, discussing rushed evacuations from Afghanistan and Russia, emotional departures, challenges faced while settling in new locations, exploring notions of home and family, longing for loved ones, and making new connections in foreign countries.
May 25, 2024 • 23min
BBC OS Conversations: Beauty pageants
Former beauty pageant winners from Germany, Finland, and Nigeria share insights on the industry. Topics include shifting beauty standards, skills beyond looks, and inclusivity efforts like introducing Burkini swimwear. The podcast also explores the rising popularity and empowerment of beauty pageants in the UK, showcasing personal growth and self-esteem impact.
May 24, 2024 • 26min
Heart and Soul: Hervé's Way, the story of a one-legged pilgrim
Meet Hervé, a one-legged pilgrim with a remarkable journey to Santiago de Compostela. He made a deal with God after losing his leg in a motorbike accident. The podcast delves into his struggles, burnout, and eventual decision to fulfill his promise by walking to the cathedral. The journey showcases resilience, gratitude, and the transformative power of pilgrimage.
May 23, 2024 • 27min
Denmark's esports revolution
Exploring Denmark's esports revolution, the podcast dives into the competitive gaming scene, schools integrating gaming into education, personal and educational aspects of gaming, community building in esports, and the landscape of esports in Denmark.
May 22, 2024 • 23min
Trending: Long Covid: Think yourself well?
Exploring the controversial Lightning Process for Long Covid treatment, its impact on chronic illness recovery, and the psychological aspects of persistent symptoms. Investigating the debate between alternative therapies and medical skepticism, with a focus on finding effective treatments for Long Covid.
May 21, 2024 • 28min
Assignment: The Caspian crisis
Explore the crisis facing the Caspian Sea, with receding shorelines and falling sea levels. Hear from activists and researchers in Kazakhstan on the environmental and social impacts. Learn about the decline of Caspian seals, challenges for the fishing community, and efforts to prevent an environmental disaster.
May 20, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Zoë Barrett and Patrick Eley
Design experts Zoë Barrett and Patrick Eley discuss their unique approach to creating efficient signage that guides visitors through complex spaces. They emphasize the importance of clear directions, calm atmospheres, and attention to detail in enhancing the museum experience. The conversation also delves into their current project at Paisley Museum, client feedback, and the balance between functionality and aesthetics in wayfinding design.
May 19, 2024 • 41min
Bonus: The Global Jigsaw
Exploring Chinese influence in Nairobi, showcasing China's presence in infrastructure and media. Discussing China's aid initiatives in Africa through a fictional soap opera. Delving into China's diplomatic and economic strategies in Africa. Investigating the expansion of Chinese media agencies in Africa and their impact on local narratives. Highlighting the complexities of Chinese-African cooperation and perceptions in Nairobi's Chinatown.
14 snips
May 19, 2024 • 48min
Labelling the world: The power of DSM
Exploring the controversy and impact of mental disorder labels, including the evolution and consequences of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Discussing how labels can provide answers and support but also lead to stigma and over-medication. Questioning the necessity of labels in everyday life and suggesting a shift away from the terms 'mental' and 'disorder'.
May 18, 2024 • 27min
The Fifth Floor: Message in a bottle to North Korea
A defector from North Korea, Park Jung-oh, sends bottles filled with rice and USB sticks to North Korea. Rachel Lee shares his story. Madina Dahiru Maishanu from BBC Hausa talks about her show. Plus, Thomas Naadi discusses Stevie Wonder's connection with Ghana.
