The Documentary Podcast

Andrew Harding, a long-serving BBC foreign correspondent who reported from Russia during the tumultuous 1990s, shares gripping insights on the 1999 apartment bombings. He reflects on how these tragic events fueled Vladimir Putin's rise to power and the unfolding chaos in Russia. Harding discusses the early assumptions about Chechen militants, the brutal Chechen wars, and the chilling discovery of an unexploded fifth bomb that led to suspicions around the FSB's involvement. His firsthand experience adds depth to the unsettling mysteries of that era.

Sean Binder, a dedicated human rights activist and rescue diver, sheds light on his experience as a volunteer during the migrant crisis in Lesbos. He discusses the harrowing trial against him and others accused of facilitating illegal entry while trying to save lives. The conversation dives into the shift in local attitudes towards rescuers, the dangerous pushbacks faced by asylum seekers, and the implications of their acquittal on future humanitarian efforts. Binder's insights reveal the struggles between compassion and legal repercussions for aiding those in need.

Scheherazade Tillett, a photographer capturing Black girlhood, and her sister Salamishah Tillett, a writer and critic, delve into the beauty and complexity of growing up Black in America. They share their creative roots, inspired by figures like Gordon Parks, and discuss their unique collaboration process. The duo highlights striking images from Chicago parades and Martha's Vineyard, emphasizing the joy of play and cultural rituals. Their mission focuses on visibility and preserving the narratives of Black girls, aiming to counter erasure and celebrate autonomy.

Join Jacqueline Gates, group leader of the heavy element group at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, and Jennifer Poore, research scientist at the same lab, as they dive into the fascinating world of super-heavy elements. They share the challenges of fusing nuclei to create new elements like element 120 and explain the intricate details of ion production and detection methods. The conversation explores the thrill of scientific discovery and the legacy pressures behind these groundbreaking pursuits, blending curiosity with real-world applications.

David Wafula, a BBC Africa journalist, sheds light on the alarming recruitment of Kenyans who were misled by job offers to fight for Russia in Ukraine. He shares heartbreaking stories from families searching for their loved ones. Tri Wahyuni, a BBC Indonesian correspondent, explains why Bali remained eerily calm during nationwide protests, attributing it to the traumatic 1965 purge and its lasting impact on social attitudes. Meanwhile, Vishnukant Tiwari narrates the uplifting tale of two friends in Panna who stumbled upon a rare diamond, changing their fortunes and dreams.

Corey Richards, a mountaineer and author, shares his harrowing experience of surviving an avalanche on Gashabram 2, detailing the chilling moments of being partially buried. JT Holmes, a professional skier, discusses his terrifying time trapped under snow and the profound impact of PTSD following his rescue in California. Benton Hodges, a backcountry skier, recounts a destructive avalanche in the Teton range and highlights the teamwork involved in his rescue. The trio delves into the psychological aftermath of such events, exploring coping mechanisms and the challenges of returning to the slopes.

In this captivating discussion, Angel Gurung, a traditional bodybreaker from Mustang, and a senior monk share insights on the haunting beauty of sky burials—an ancient funeral rite where the dead are offered to vultures. With contributions from Professor Sienna Craig, the trio delves into the ritual's spiritual significance, the intricate ceremony, and the recent decline in vulture populations due to environmental pressures. They explore how modernity clashes with age-old traditions and ponder the impact on this sacred practice.

Lieutenant Commander John Resch, a U.S. Coast Guard pilot known for his expertise in Alaskan operations, shares insights on monitoring foreign activity in the Bering Sea. Senior reporter Tim Ellis highlights the worrying increase in sightings of Russian and Chinese vessels near Alaska. Together, they discuss the strategic significance of Alaska amid rising tensions, the challenges of enforcing Exclusive Economic Zone laws, and the implications of China's growing influence in the region, shedding light on the complex dynamics at play.

Polina Alexandrovna Azarnik, a former facilitator for Arab students in Russia and Telegram recruiter, offers chilling insights into a recruitment pipeline luring young men to fight in Ukraine. She reveals how deceptive contracts promised safety but led recruits to the front lines. Hear heartbreaking stories of families grieving lost sons and men trapped in war. The investigation uncovers Polina's controversial tactics, including burning passports to intimidate recruits, and sheds light on the grim reality of those who fell for the promises of citizenship and pay.

Rutger de Raff, Director at Blue21 and floating homes project initiator, discusses innovative floating housing solutions in response to the Netherlands’ housing crisis. Peter Bullhauer, Professor at Delft University, analyzes the challenges of building new cities amid existing policies and infrastructure issues. They delve into the historical causes of the housing shortfall, the complexities of squatting, and the impact of strict rent controls on the market. The conversation highlights the tightrope between ambition for new developments and the reality of electrical infrastructure limitations.