The Explanation
BBC World ServiceWhere the world is explained. Making sense of the big stories - looking behind the spin. Exploring the important questions about long-running stories and the latest global news. An honest, unvarnished, explanation of the world.
Featuring new episodes of The President's Path, Unspun World with John Simpson, and The Media Show.
| Publishes | Daily | Episodes | 346 | Founded | 3 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | DocumentaryNews CommentarySociety & CultureNews | |||
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Latest Episodes
Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss President Zelensky's visit to Washington, where he pushed for greater US support to bolster Ukraine's air defences. They examine whether relations between Trump and Zelensky are warming, and what this renew... more
The Economist's interview with Elon Musk attracted global attention before Musk then described interviewer Zanny Minton Beddoes as a "traitor to the West". The interview followed 90 minutes of conversation for The Insider, The Economist's video serie... more
Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry and Bernd Debusmann discuss what we know about the US-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal, the implications for the fragile balance of power in the Middle East, and the fact that Israel could now make or break the agreement.
more
An AI-generated actor called Tilly Norwood has been cast in the lead role of a forthcoming film, adding to the debate about artificial intelligence in filmmaking. The announcement follows criticism from actors including Emily Blunt and objections fro... more
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Reviews
- 4th of July
A level of ignorance by your team of the facts . The 4th of July relates to America choice for the continuation of slavery and discrimination . It is not a version .it is just a fact ..
Apple Podcasts1patricanthony9
United Kingdoma month ago - Unspun World
I would look forward to hearing John Simpson’s rich timbre when speaking anytime day or night ! I do also happen to appreciate his considered , intelligent , sane reasoning. A must listen me
Apple Podcasts5Danish01
Australia4 months ago - Rightful
•SERIES: The President’s Path. Annoying Panellist Catchphrase: “Right?” (Even mid-sentence).
Apple Podcasts3(Gibberer)Australia8 months ago - Not so unvarnished
I want to hear both sides, but am finding their coverage more and more sympathetic to dark themes. For instance: describing people celebrating CK’s death as disgusting, and his ‘work’ as challenging opinions. Publicly, at least, this man was not a good person. Openly hateful talk is disgusting. Has the BBC entered the upside down world??
Apple Podcasts3Anneli Veronica
Canadaa year ago Superb podcast
Podcast Addict52 years agocougar
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #49 | United Kingdom/News/News Commentary |
Apple Podcasts | #169 | Canada/News/News Commentary |
Apple Podcasts | #79 |  France/News/News Commentary |
Apple Podcasts | #128 | Australia/News/News Commentary |
Apple Podcasts | #149 |  Italy/News/News Commentary |
Apple Podcasts | #172 |  Germany/News/News Commentary |
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Explanation
What is The Explanation about and what kind of topics does it cover?
The series centers on global politics, media dynamics, and high-stakes diplomacy through a BBC-informed lens. Episodes frequently dissect US-Iran tensions, US-China relations, midterm political calculus, and the politics of media ecosystems, often weaving in on-the-ground reporting from international correspondents and guest analysts. A standout is the sustained emphasis on how policy, public opinion, and media narratives intersect in real-time, with a diverse roster of guests ranging from crisis analysts to journalists and policymakers. The show's strength lies in its granular, informed take on long-running stories and breaking events, making complex international developments accessible without sacrificing nuance.
Where can I find podcast stats for The Explanation?
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How many listeners does The Explanation get?
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What are the audience demographics for The Explanation?
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How many subscribers and views does The Explanation have?
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Which podcasts are similar to The Explanation?
These podcasts share a similar audience with The Explanation:
1. The Inquiry
2. The Documentary Podcast
3. The Global Story
4. From Our Own Correspondent
5. The Interview
How many episodes of The Explanation are there?
The Explanation launched 3 years ago and published 346 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact The Explanation?
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Where can I see ratings and reviews for The Explanation?
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What guests have appeared on The Explanation?
Recent guests on The Explanation include:
1. Bernd Debusmann
2. Andrew Neil
3. Lizzy Buchan
4. Eline Van der Velden
5. Tom Nicholas
6. Rhodri Talfan Davies
7. Gabriel Pogrund
8. Michael Crick
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.