

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

Jan 23, 2024 • 24min
Solutions Journalism: Ending homelessness the Finnish way
Finland implemented 'housing first' approach to homelessness, offering homeless people their own apartment and necessary support. Around 90% remain housed, though implementing this may be challenging for countries without Finland's extensive welfare system or affordable housing. The podcast features interviews with formerly homeless individuals who have transformed their lives through this approach and highlights the success and impact of 'housing first' in Finland. It also discusses the challenges and achievements faced by individuals transitioning from homelessness to pursuing their passions and finding freedom within a supportive community.

Jan 22, 2024 • 26min
In the Studio: Maria Djurkovic
Award-winning production designer Maria Djurkovic shares her experience working on Harry Styles' movie 'My Policeman' during the pandemic. She discusses the challenges of crew shortages, schedule changes, and finding props. Despite the difficulties, she highlights the advantages of shooting in a studio and the excitement of finally seeing the set locations in person.

38 snips
Jan 21, 2024 • 51min
Paris: Football’s greatest talent factory
Exploring the talent production of Paris in street, music, and football. Discussing the clubs that produced well-known French football players. Highlighting the impact of football on the community and the role of accessible facilities in preventing delinquency. Emphasizing the development of players and the challenges they may face. Narrating the inspiring story of how a gifted player was discovered and invited to join a renowned football academy. Discussing the importance of positioning, discipline, and constant improvement in football. Examining the challenges of developing local talent for a top football club. Sharing a former player's journey to inspire the next generation of talent.

Jan 20, 2024 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations: Surviving sepsis
Three survivors of sepsis share their inspiring stories and discuss the physical and emotional challenges they faced. The podcast sheds light on sepsis as a severe medical condition, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. It also explores the process of recovery, the benefits of prosthetics, and the support from work family. The speakers highlight resilience, personal growth, and the role of support groups in overcoming challenges and embracing a determined mindset.

Jan 19, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Russia’s Africa crusade
The podcast explores the presence and influence of the Russian Orthodox Church in Africa, discussing their outreach efforts and potential political motivations. It delves into the experiences of a priest in Kenya and the rise of the Russian church. The chapter also examines the psychological toll on priests' families and the expansion of the church in other African countries.

Jan 18, 2024 • 27min
Assignment: Bulgaria - the people smugglers
This podcast explores the experiences of people smugglers and migrants in Bulgaria, including police corruption, dangers on the journey, and the moral implications of smuggling vulnerable people.

Jan 16, 2024 • 27min
Our House: Stories of the Holocaust
Berliners uncover the stories of Jewish families who once lived in their homes during the Holocaust. They honor their memory by researching and sharing their findings. The podcast also features a survivor who vividly recalls growing up in Nazi Germany and tracks down her mother's childhood house in Berlin. The episode explores the impact of the Holocaust on Berlin's Jewish community and highlights acts of commemoration.

Jan 15, 2024 • 27min
In the Studio: Thelma Schoonmaker
Renowned film editor Thelma Schoonmaker, known for her work with Martin Scorsese, shares insights on the collaborative process of film editing, the challenges of remote work during COVID-19, and the importance of test screenings and audience engagement. She also discusses the evolution of editing technology and the influence of her late husband, Michael Powell, on Scorsese's films.

Jan 13, 2024 • 24min
BBC OS Conversations on graduate unemployment
The podcast explores the challenges faced by graduates in finding employment, including the struggles of constant rejections and the importance of gaining skills and referrals. Personal experiences with job searching, family pressure, and battles with depression are shared. The chapter also highlights individuals who turned to entrepreneurship after struggling to find jobs related to their degrees. Advice is given on job searching, including the importance of having a passion or hobby to generate income while waiting for employment and building a strong network.

Jan 12, 2024 • 27min
Heart and Soul: Facing death in Kenya
In Kenya, palliative care faces suspicion and taboo, but is much-needed for terminally-ill patients. Kimbilio Hospice defies stigma in providing end-of-life care. The challenges and stigma surrounding death in Kenya are explored. A social worker shares personal experiences and reflections on end-of-life care. Morogo's motivation to help patients leads him to become known as the man with the phone. Pastor David Tarus faces reluctance from families but eventually achieves a breakthrough. The compassionate care provided at a hospice in Kenya is highlighted, showcasing the dedication of staff.


