What in the World

• Why do big companies keep getting hacked?

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर १२ · ९ मिनेट

  It’s not unusual to receive an email that your personal information has been accessed through a data breach or cyber attack these days. This happened to millions of ASOS customers in October. Or you might have logged onto a site and been told to change your password because it’s been found in a hack. Loads of us are talking about how to protect yourself online, especially in cases where companies are responsible for handling your sensitive information. BBC’s Cyber Correspondent Joe Tidy tells us about some of the methods cyber criminals use to carry out their hacks. We also get Tejal Reddy, a software engineer and cyber-security content creator to answer some of your online safety questions and concerns. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Chelsea Coates Video Producer: Benita Barden Editor: Emily Horler

• Sex, lies and (alleged) Chinese spies: the Nvidia CEO’s affair

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर ११ · ११ मिनेट

  The Venn diagram of technology, geopolitics and national security = the Nvidia scandal. Something we didn’t have on our bingo cards for 2026: The boss of the AI firm Nvidia is being investigated by his own company after being caught having an affair with a woman alleged to be a Chinese spy. Jensen Huang’s admitted the affair with Alice Huang (no relation) and China’s denied that she’s a spy. Jensen Huang’s friend, the US President Donald Trump, has backed him. So, where does this leave one of the most powerful men in the world? And what does this all mean for US national security? We break it all down with Shawn Yuan from the BBC’s Global China Unit. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Emilia Jansson and Mollie Perella Editor: Verity Wilde

• Ash Dykes on his Congo Basin mission

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर १० · १३ मिनेट

  Ash Dykes has five Guinness World Records. He’s trekked through some of the world’s toughest environments. And he just can’t stop. The extreme adventurer has recently completed a 700km (434 mile) journey through the Congo Basin in central Africa by inflatable kayak. It was the first of six expeditions he’s doing back-to-back. The journey was documented ‘live’ on his socials. So how do you prepare for challenges like this? Why do they seem to get tougher and tougher? Where is the limit? Ash joins us in the What in the World studio to talk about his mission, why he keeps raising the bar, and what he says to those who criticise him. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella Video Producer: Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

• Should film-makers be using AI?

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर ९ · ११ मिनेट

  Have you ever watched a film, and wondered: has this been made with AI? From AI animals to face swapping, it’s getting harder to tell. When Director Danny Boyle’s upcoming movie Ink premiered at film festivals this autumn, many viewers noticed the tell-tale signs of AI. But the director said that he made sure no actors lost out on work and that AI-generated animals could be an ethical solution to using real ones. BBC Journalist Kesewaa Browne joins Hannah to talk about whether AI is becoming another regular film making tool and if it’s something we should be excited or worried about in cinema. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates, Elena Angelides and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• The downfall of Russell Brand

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर ६ · ९ मिनेट

  Russell Brand started off as a comedian and presenter in the UK, known for his back-brushed hair and self-proclaimed sex addiction. After fame in the US and a short marriage to Katy Perry, he’s now a big religious influencer. He’s also now been found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault in a big trial in London. He was found not guilty on three other counts. We will find out how long his sentence is on Monday. In today’s episode we’re going to answer: who is he, what happened and how does this fits into a wider industry issue? Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter and Producer: Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• Is ‘ferritin face’ a real thing?

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर ५ · ९ मिनेट

  You might’ve seen lots of chat online about ‘ferritin face’ alongside zoomed in before and after pics of people’s faces. Some claim that changes in their appearance, like pale skin and hair loss, are down to having low ferritin levels. But what even is ferritin? It’s the protein responsible for storing iron in the body. Iron is important for creating red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body. It’s needed for things like your energy levels, skin and hair health. So, can you tell if your ferritin levels are low just by your face? We break it down with the BBC’s Zara Salaria and Dr Aziza Sesay, who specialises in female health. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Zara Salaria Editor: Verity Wilde

• Midterm elections: How the Democrats beat President Trump’s Republicans

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर ४ · १४ मिनेट

  Democrats in the US have won control of Congress in the midterm elections. They’ve done better than even the polls suggested - winning seats held by Republicans for decades. But what does that actually mean? BBC reporter and What in the World’s resident American, William Lee Adams, breaks down what the elections were for, what voters were most concerned about, what it means for President Trump and his Republican party as well as some of the notable firsts among the victors. And we’re hearing from young voters in some of the states that have changed parties this year Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• The ghost jobs haunting your job hunt

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर ३ · ११ मिनेट

  While job hunting have you ever spotted a job ad that never seems to go away? When you apply you don’t get a reply, let alone a rejection. You may have spotted a ghost! Or a ghost job. In fact, it’s happening so much ‘ghost jobs’ was on the shortlist for Collins dictionary word of the year (mogging won in the end). According to a study across the US, UK and Germany up to 22% of jobs posted online last year were listed with no intent to hire. We speak to BBC Business reporter, Megan Lawton about why some companies are choosing to post ‘ghost jobs’ and why some governments are trying to ban them. Plus, we hear from Sundus who is searching for work and we get some tips from Patricia, a career coach from Nyche careers. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Emma-Louise Amanshia Video Producer: Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why is the new Call of Duty game getting backlash?

  २०२६ नोभेम्बर २ · १२ मिनेट

  Modern Warfare 4 - the latest Call of Duty game - was already deemed controversial before its release. The main storyline depicts a fictional conflict in the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea invading the South. That’s upset many Koreans: More than one million people died in the real Korean War, and technically North Korea and South Korea remain at war because a peace deal was never signed. Loyal fans of the video game franchise were not put off by the controversial story line, as developers Activision have been inspired by real-life events in the past. But some fans discovered real footage from the Itaewon crowd crush, a tragedy completely unrelated to conflict, in the game. Victims’ families were horrified and complained. BBC Newsbeat’s Riyah Collins and Jake Kwon, the BBC’s correspondent in Seoul, explain how the game has been received. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• Hyrox could become an Olympic sport

  २०२६ अक्टोबर ३० · १० मिनेट

  When you think of Hyrox, you might remember those viral pictures of an athlete pushing through the race even though diarrhoea was running down her legs. Her name is Joanna Wietrzyk - and in an exclusive interview with the BBC, she’s described the fallout after she won the competition. She and Hyrox have previously apologised. She’s spoken to the BBC now about the online hate she got after the race (we’ve put the link to that interview at the bottom for you). In Hyrox, competitors alternate between running a kilometre and doing fitness exercises, like a sled push, burpee jumps, indoor rowing, and lunges while carrying a sandbag. What happened in those viral photos catapulted the fitness craze into the spotlight - but now it’s making headlines again, because of its bid to become an Olympic sport. So how has Hyrox got so popular - and does it have a good chance of making it into the Olympics? BBC Health reporter and Hyrox athlete Annabel Rackham explains why Hyrox is taking off in a big way. BBC journalist Jacob Evans, who has also just done his first ever Hyrox, shares his experience, and explains some of the difficulties the sport could face in its Olympic bid. And sports journalist Emma Sunny tells us what she thinks this means for the world of sports more widely. Also, the Olympics has a long history of including sports that you might not expect. We put Hannah to the test to see if she can guess which sports have made an appearance over the years. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde The BBC's Hyrox athlete interview: bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c6gr8l15k744o

• Would you use an 'Etsy witch'?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २९ · ११ मिनेट

  Need good weather for your birthday? Want a date to go well? Maybe you’ve got exams coming up or want a promotion at work and need some good vibes. An 'Etsy witch' might be able to help… There are loads of online witches on platforms, like eBay and Etsy, offering spells to help us with everything from love to money. But do they actually work? And why has witchcraft become so popular online? Morgan from The Divine Eyes shop explains how she casts her spells, while we hear from people who’ve turned to online witches for help. Plus, William Lee Adams from the What in the World team explores the taboos surrounding witchcraft around the world. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Liv Cleal Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why Kylian Mbappe has been cancelled in China

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २८ · १० मिनेट

  Kylian Mbappé - the French football superstar sometimes nicknamed a ‘Dictator’ online - has found himself at the centre of a scandal in China this week, after mentioning one of the memes made about him. It shows his face on the body of Mao Zedong, the former Chinese leader, and on a French talk show, when Mbappé describes it, he refers to Mao as a dictator. The backlash against Mbappé has been huge. He’s been dropped by major Chinese brands, shops have pulled football shirts with his name off the shelves, and the state broadcaster has even stopped showing La Liga matches. Mbappé, Real Madrid and La Liga - the Spanish league - have all apologised. So how did a joke about meme become so controversial in China - and what does it tell us about censorship in the country? Kerry Allen, the BBC’s China Media Analyst, talks us through it all - and we hear from the BBC Global China Unit’s Shawn Yuan, who explains how censorship in China is changing. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Editor: Verity Wilde

• What Bukangi the shark in South Korea tells us about climate change

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २७ · १३ मिनेट

  For weeks, the city of Busan in South Korea has been playing host to an unexpected visitor. A Dusky shark nicknamed Bukangi. She swam into a canal in the city and simply won’t leave, despite efforts from experts to try to coax her back to the to the open sea. Those attempts to move her have been live-streamed and Bukangi has become something of a celeb in Busan. There’s merchandise of her, posters with her as a cartoon have been put up and she’s been made the city’s un-official mascot. Bukangi has helped boost visitors to the city - but what does she tell us about climate change? We hear from the BBC’s Jake Kwon, who’s in Busan, about the impact she’s had on the city, shark enthusiast @SarahShark tells us all about Dusky sharks and our climate reporter Esme Stallard explains why she might be there in the first place. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Mollie Perella Producers: Emma - Louise Amanshia and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• How student protesters won against Serbia's Vučić

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २६ · ९ मिनेट

  Snap elections in Serbia have resulted in the toppling of the long-term leader, Aleksandar Vučić, as protest movement ‘The Student List’ won a decisive victory over the weekend. Over the last two years, students have protested against the government after a concrete roof collapsed outside of a train station and 16 people were killed. Lots of people saw the disaster as a result of corruption and negligence in the country. We hear from people on the streets of Belgrade celebrating this new era. But how did this win come about? Who will lead the country? And what is next for Serbia? Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: Emily Horler and Abigail Akerman Editor: Verity Wilde

• Five ways El Niño is affecting weather around the world

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २३ · ११ मिनेट

  El Niño has been strengthening for several months now and is already having a significant impact on global weather patterns. Countries including Indonesia, India and the United States have been experiencing droughts, floods and heatwaves in line with projections about how extreme weather events will be supercharged by the phenomenon. The World Meteorological Agency says the record-breaking El Niño will strengthen further and persist until at least 2027. BBC reporter William Lee Adams speaks with BBC weather presenter and meteorologist Sarah Keith-Lucas. She explains five ways its impact is already being felt around the world. Plus we hear from people experiencing the impact of extreme weather events in Singapore, India and Japan. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden Editor: Emily Horler

• Hangxiety: Why some people experience anxiety after drinking alcohol

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २२ · ९ मिनेट

  After drinking alcohol, some people don’t just have a headache - they feel guilt, dread, low mood and a deep sense of embarrassment. It’s known as ‘hang-xiety’ or hangover anxiety, and science backs up that it’s a real phenomenon. Alcohol affects all systems in the body, including the brain. so it can cause psychological symptoms. Millie Gooch, author of Hangxiety and speaker breaks down how the nervous system and brain are impacted when the effects of alcohol wear off. She also tells us how hangxiety played a role in her sobriety journey. We also hear about some people’s experience with anxiety, and how it changed their relationship with alcohol. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• How have the protests in France changed?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २१ · ९ मिनेट

  Protests are still ongoing across France, but now it’s no longer just about schools. People of all ages are protesting over a high cost of living. But there was violence and riots over the weekend, with thousands of arrests. Dramatic pictures of wreckage, fires and police clampdowns have spread online and have had a huge response internationally. But what exactly is happening and why have things shifted since earlier protests this month? We hear from BBC reporter Pierre-Antoine Denis, about what has caused this intense shift. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why polyester is in its flop era

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २० · ११ मिनेट

  Have a look at the label in the clothes you’re wearing today. Chances are, you’re wearing some polyester. It’s the most- produced synthetic fibre on the planet and it’s having a bit of a moment on socials. In a bad way…people are giving it up and swapping for more natural fibres. You might’ve seen claims that polyester is linked to diseases like cancer and can cause fertility issues. But how worried should we be? Professor Mohamed Abdallah from the University of Birmingham breaks it down for us and Chelsea Coates from the What in the World team explains how we can make better clothing choices. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why the word ‘vagina’ is getting blocked on social media

  २०२६ अक्टोबर १९ · १३ मिनेट

  Is educational content about women’s reproductive and sexual health being removed or restricted on social media apps? Content moderation tools are meant to flag specific words and imagery that breach platform guidelines, like showing nudity or explicit content, but posts that use clinical terms like ‘vagina’ are getting blocked too. BBC reporter, Ashitha Nagesh has been speaking to charities, campaigners and businesses about this issue. We hear from three creators, Dr Aziza Sesay, Samantha Hadadi and Gigi Engle about their experience of being shadowbanned on social media and how it’s impacted their work. And Martha Dimitratou is the founder of Repro Uncensored, a non profit that tracks censorship online, she tells us how this is impacting content creators on a global scale. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• How flamingos in Albania sparked massive protests

  २०२६ अक्टोबर १६ · १० मिनेट

  What began as a peaceful protest in Albania turned violent in October, as students took the lead, setting buildings on fire and clashing with police. They are demanding better university conditions, greater opportunities for young people – and an end to what they describe as a corrupt government. This all goes back to a proposal to build a huge, luxury tourist resort in Zvërnec, where there’s a flamingo reserve. US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is among the investors. But locals were unhappy at the impact the proposals would have on the flamingos and the nature in the area. So, they began to protest. The Flamingo Movement has grown, and crowds are now chanting not just about the environment, but schools, jobs and living standards. We hear from some protesters, including 23-year-old activist, Brunela, who has become known as “the girl who started the revolution”. And Rita Behadini from the What in the World, breaks down the political landscape of Albania. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Mollie Perella, Baldeep Chahal and Rita Behadini Editor: Verity Wilde

• Can airport scanners see you naked?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर १५ · १४ मिनेट

  Shoes on or off? Laptops in or out? And don’t get us started on the rules around liquids! Getting through airport security never seems to be simple. It’s there for a reason, of course. But there are so many rules and why do they seem to be different everywhere you go? We’re joined by science journalist and presenter Caroline Steel to talk about everything from the miles long luggage belts our suitcases travel on, how x-ray scanners work, what they’re looking for and whether or not they can ACTUALLY see us naked. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Baldeep Chahal Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Emily Horler

• How fires in Indonesia are impacting Singapore’s air

  २०२६ अक्टोबर १४ · १२ मिनेट

  Singapore’s got a reputation for being one of world’s cleanest cities. But right now, it’s covered in a thick blanket of smog. And it’s recently seen its worst air quality levels for the year. The reason? Fires in nearby Indonesia. Indonesia’s seen its worst wildfire season in years. Huge areas of land have been burning for weeks. Fires are sometimes lit as a way to illegally clear land to make room for plantations - a process known as ‘slash and burn’. Hot and dry conditions caused by extreme weather mean the fires grow and spread easily. We hear from people in Singapore and Indonesia about how the fires and resulting haze are affecting their daily lives. Plus, BBC reporters Tessa Wong in Singapore and Liza Tambunan in Indonesia explain how both countries are responding. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Baldeep Chahal and Mollie Perella Editor: Verity Wilde

• Would you do an ‘influencer degree’?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर १३ · ९ मिनेट

  It’s no surprise more people want to become influencers - a study found that in 2024, YouTube content creators alone contributed £2.2bn to the UK’s economy. But… would you pay thousands to study how to be one? A growing number of universities around the world, like Arizona State University in the US, have started offering Content Creation courses. We hear from Martyna who is currently studying BA Content Creation at Nottingham Trent University in the UK. So are these courses the best way to become an influencer? Or are they more about training to go into a career in online marketing? BBC journalist Megan Lawton takes us through the stats and Daanish (@doctordaanish), a medical doctor and influencer, gives us his take on these degrees. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Video Producer: Tim Hodges Editor: Emily Horler

• The AI influencer who had lots of us fooled

  २०२६ अक्टोबर १२ · १० मिनेट

  There’s just SOMETHING not quite right about that French influencer we’re seeing all over socials. His blonde bob, the suit he wears, and that moustache! His name is Jean Philanthrope, and his videos have wracked up millions of views. But, it turns out, he’s not real. He’s AI and he’s being used to promote a risky type of crypto called a Meme coin. We speak to BBC Verify’s Marco Silva about how he investigates characters like this, how they work, and what you can do to keep yourself safe from falling for this kind of content. Artist and performer Nadir Josi also tells us his concerns about the ‘copy and paste culture’ of the internet, and what it means for the future of art. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella Editors: Emily Horler

• Christa Pike: What happens when executions go wrong?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर ९ · ११ मिनेट

  Last week, Christa Pike, a death row inmate in the US faced execution via lethal injection for a murder she committed in 1995. But after she was given two full doses of the drug pentobarbital, she survived. At the time of uploading this podcast, she remains awake in hospital and it’s unclear what went wrong with the attempted execution. We hear the details from BBC reporters in the US, who have been covering this story including Brandon Drenon, Kayla Epstein and Nada Tawfik. Not long after Pike’s recovery, the US Defence Secretary, Pete Hegseth, announced that an execution by firing squad in Fort Hood, Texas will be livestreamed to the public for the first time. The man on death row is Nidal Hasan, a former US Army major and he shot dead 13 unarmed US soldiers in 2009. What does this all mean for the future of the death penalty in the US? Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and Benita Barden Editor: Emily Horler

• Everyone is talking about the "great lock-in"

  २०२६ अक्टोबर ८ · १२ मिनेट

  January isn’t the only time for new year’s resolutions anymore. The end of the year is having a moment too - as part of the great lock-in trend. There’s lots of content online about locking in for the last four months of the year - whether that’s working out more regularly, spending less time on your phone, or trying to get that promotion at work. Some people call it a winter arc, a September reset or the fresh-start effect - why have so many of us decided this is the perfect time for self-improvement? And is striving for optimisation all the time necessarily a good thing? We hear from Adeja Shivonne, a lifestyle content creator based in New York City, who shares how her great lock-in is going. And BBC journalist Melissa Hogenboom explains what the science says about how to successfully set new goals - and stick to them. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Video Producer: Tim Hodges Editor: Emily Horler

• Are online gig spoilers ruining live music?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर ७ · १० मिनेट

  Film and TV show spoilers often come with a warning because people know they can be annoying. But when it comes to footage from concerts and gigs… those rules don’t really apply, as Olivia Rodrigo fans found out when clips of a surprise moment from her ‘Unraveled Tour’ went viral on socials. You might have saved up for a ticket to see your favourite artist, found the perfect outfit and be counting down the days to the big show, but the chances are that you’ll know what’s going to happen way before you get there. Fan clips of all the biggest moments, the surprises and the special guests are usually shared everywhere online and difficult to avoid. If you’ve been to a concert recently, you might have found it irritating if people are filming huge chunks of the show in front of you. Some artists like Phoebe Bridgers, are even banning phones from their concerts. We ask if gig spoilers ruin the surprise or actually add to the excitement. And, if they’re not for you, what can you do to avoid them when you’re online? We speak to BBC journalist Riyah Collins who has been looking into this and ask music fans from Nigeria, Australia and the UK what they think. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Editor: Emily Horler

• Why are black holes still such a mystery?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर ६ · ११ मिनेट

  Can we really get swallowed by a black hole? And what would actually happen if we did? Black holes are really mysterious and there is still so much we don’t know about them. So, grab your space helmet because we’re getting into some of the biggest questions scientists are still trying to answer. We speak to science journalist, Caroline Steel, to clear up some of the mysteries around black holes. How do they distort time? Are wormholes real? We also hear from astrophysicist and postdoctoral researcher Rowina Nathan - she separates fact from fiction and busts some of the most common black hole myths, answering questions from members of the Cosmic Girls Foundation, a global community helping teenage girls engage with space, science and technology. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Baldeep Chahal, William Lee Adams and Rita Behadini Editor: Emily Horler

• Why are so many students protesting in France?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर ५ · ९ मिनेट

  Across France, thousands of high school students are protesting. They say they’re doing it because of conditions in their schools - that classrooms are overcrowded, there’s not enough teachers and they can’t concentrate on exams because school buildings aren’t being maintained well enough. Five hundred schools are shut and some protests have turned violent, with riot police being deployed and some streets set on fire. Pupils, teachers and police have been injured. Many of the protesters are under 18 and at this point there is no sign of the demonstrations ending. So why is this happening? We hear from French teenagers who have spent the last few days protesting about what they want to change and why this is so important to them. We also hear from BBC reporter Pierre-Antoine Denis and former student union president Manès Nadel. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates, Emma-Louise Amanshia and Rita Behadini Editor: Emily Horler

• Location: Tiny Island. Population: YOU

  २०२६ अक्टोबर २ · ११ मिनेट

  It’s something you might dream of - or only see in films or read in books - moving to a remote island in the middle of the sea. Only wildlife around you. No bars or clubs and barely any people! Sound like a bit of you? Or maybe it’s your worst nightmare. We speak to BBC reporter Georgina Rannard, about why she’s swapping city life to be a farmer on an island in Wales with only three other people. We also hear tips from people that’ve done similar things. Jaleesah lives on Siquijor in the Philippines and Tom works on a research station in Antarctica. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Mollie Perella Editor: Emily Horler

• Is sleepmaxxing actually helpful?

  २०२६ अक्टोबर १ · १० मिनेट

  Researching ways to improve your sleep has been popular for years but now it’s evolved and there’s a whole new genre of social media content called ‘Sleepmaxxing’. It shows ways you can build your perfect night’s sleep, by taking magnesium supplements, using black-out curtains or white noise machines. Experts say the popularity has boomed thanks to the accessibility of smart watches which give users sleep scores. We hear from Ollie, who tracks his sleep and is aiming for the perfect score. BBC reporter Ashitha Nagesh who’s been reporting on the trend, tells us why some experts advise against multi-layered sleep routines and an obsessive fixation with sleep called orthosomnia. Plus, sleep expert Sophie Bostock tells us how reliable popular sleep trackers are and what they are really measuring. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Mollie Perella, Emily Horler and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why everyone’s talking about Cornell University

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर ३० · १० मिनेट

  The issue of safety on college campuses is nothing new. But it’s back in the spotlight again because of the re-opening of a case at Cornell University, New York in the US. A woman alleges she was gang raped at a fraternity party in October 2024. The group is being called the ‘Cornell 7’ on social media. The incident was reported to campus police at the time, but no formal charges were made. The woman claims she was drugged and raped at a frat house and says the uni didn’t protect her or adequately punish the men she says were involved. Cornell rejects this. Her lawyer says she was traumatised and dropped out of uni. Now, two years later, state prosecutors have reopened the investigation following a civil lawsuit she’s filed. So - what happened with the case the first time? And what’s different now? We speak to the BBC’s New York correspondent Nada Tawfik about the case and the conversations about consent, accountability and campus sexual assault. If you are affected by any of the issues in this episode, details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide. www.befrienders.org Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Mollie Perella Editor: Emily Horler

• Is it time to find a side hustle?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २९ · १२ मिनेट

  More and more of us are picking up side hustles - US national employment data shows that the number of people with more than one job is going up year on year, and a survey found that the majority of them are 16-24 year olds. So why are more of us turning to side hustles? And what’s the best way to start one? We hear from Katie (@katiesgarms), Vera (@viavera_) and Shania (@shaniasvault) who have all started successful side hustles. They share how they got into them and their top tips for getting started. And Chelsea Coates from the What in the World team explains why the current global job market is encouraging more people to pick up second jobs - and the things to look out for if you’re thinking of doing this. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Mollie Perella, Chelsea Coates and Emma-Louise Amanshia Video Journalist: Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

• MTV VMAs: Does anyone even watch award ceremonies anymore?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २८ · ११ मिनेट

  Madonna won Artist of the Year and Taylor Swift made a splash at Sunday’s MTV Video Music Awards - she became the most decorated performer in VMA history, and premiered her music video for Patient Zero, the lead single from the encore to her album The Life of a Showgirl. And there’s a reason the VMAs might have been so keen to have her - award ceremonies aren’t pulling the big audiences that they used to. Millions of people used to tune in and pore over the outfits and the speeches, hoping their favourite artists would win. But now, viewing figures are falling for shows like the Grammys, the Oscars and the Emmys. So… why are award shows in their flop era? And what’s being done to revive them? BBC culture journalist William Lee Adams breaks it all down - and we hear from music fans on whether they think award ceremonies are still relevant. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Benita Barden and Chelsea Coates Editor: Emily Horler VMAs 2026 audio courtesy of MTV/CBS

• Is it OK to bring iced coffee to a job interview?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २५ · १५ मिनेट

  Would you bring an iced coffee to a job interview? A viral TikTok from Caitlin Wehniainen - a recruiter in Florida - has stirred up a huge debate. It’s after she said that Gen Z candidates turning up to job interviews with an iced coffee can look too casual and unprofessional. But seriously…can an iced latte actually hurt your chances of getting a job? And what does your coffee order have to do with whether you’d be good at it? Grab your drink of choice because we’re getting into it with BBC reporters Baldeep Chahal, Leona Gasper and Stefania Okereke from the What in the World team. BBC journalist Sanjana Idnani tells us about the difficult job market recent graduates are having to contend with. And BBC reporter Basma El Atti shares her thoughts from Nairobi. Plus: We get hot takes from content creators Alexis Wilson (@sucseed_academics), Olivia Monday (@oliviamonday_) and Piper Phillips (@piperphillips) from Instagram, and Coka (@cokafree), Anne-Tso @theportfoliocareercoach, Evan (@thisamericanmess) from TikTok. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Should we be syncing our workouts to our menstrual cycles?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २४ · १० मिनेट

  We’ve seen more and more women talking about cycle-syncing. It’s where you adjust your diet and work outs to match the different phases of your period. Things like eating more in certain phases or taking it easy in others. But does cycle-syncing help you get better results? Does the science back it up or is it just another wellness trend and rule book for women to follow? BBC reporter Zara Salaria takes us through what cycle syncing is, we hear from people who have tried it and a doctor breaks it down for us: does it work? Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• How South Korea keeps most of its food waste out of landfills

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २३ · १२ मिनेट

  Globally more than a billion tonnes of food is wasted each year and much of it ends up in landfills. As the food breaks down it releases huge amounts of methane, making up 10% of the world’s climate-warming emissions. Now many cities and governments are looking to South Korea as a model of how to reduce food waste and boost food recycling. BBC reporter Soo Min Kim explains how South Korea cut household food waste going to landfill from 97% to almost nothing. Among other things, they’ve nudged the public to think about their food waste by making it mandatory to separate food waste and to pay for throwing it away. The country also has special RFID bins to handle disposal and payments, and there are financial penalties for people who don’t comply. We also hear from content creators around the world about how they reduce their food waste. They are: Senjuti Chakraborty in India, Debbi Love in the UK, and Chatty Miss Maddie and Lani Marschall in Australia. Plus BBC reporter William Lee Adams shares some of the surprising food saving hacks he came across on social media. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producer: William Lee Adams Editor: Verity Wilde

• Are rhinestones the death of the whimsy trend?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २२ · १२ मिनेट

  You may have seen whimsy all over your socials this year. Maybe you’ve been trying to make your days more whimsical? To some, that means taking a moment to appreciate the small things in life: the way the light falls on your desk in the afternoons, or a slow moment spent watching the way the trees blow in the wind. But now, rhinestones have entered the chat and the trend seems to have evolved into something entirely different. There are now concerns that it’s turned into over-consumerism, with people buying gems and other items to be whimsy. When some argue that whimsy simply cannot be bought. We speak to content creators Karris & Elizabeth about what whimsy means to them. Mollie from the What in the World team talks us through how the trend has grown. And we break down the evolution of whimsy with pop culture writer, Alyssa, and de-influencer, Emma. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• Resident Evil: The movie reviews are in

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २१ · १० मिनेट

  For months gamers and horror movie fans around the world have been waiting for the brand new Resident Evil movie to drop. After the trailer was released there was a huge backlash from fans who were worried that it would be terrible. They said that key characters were missing, it was set in the wrong decade and previous films in the franchise weren’t great. So, now that they’ve seen it, what do they think? We speak to the film’s director Zach Cregger, BBC reporters Tom Richardson and Baldeep Chahal and six Resident Evil fans to find out about the response to the film and how it compares to the famous game. Resident Evil audio courtesy of director Zach Creeger and Constantin Film. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: William Lee Adams, Emma-Louise Amanshia and Mollie Perella Editor: Verity Wilde

• Should artists speak up about Israel-Gaza?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर १८ · १४ मिनेट

  For the first time in a loooong time, Macklemore’s face is probably all over your timeline, alongside Ed Sheeran’s. This week, Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour’s been plunged into chaos after Macklemore was dropped as Ed's support for making pro-Palestinian comments on stage. The other artists who were going to take part in the tour with Ed pulled out in solidarity. What’s gonna happen with his Philadelphia concert? Is this going to ruin the tour?! We unpack how the week unfolded with Zara Salaria from BBC News. Do you want your favourite artists to speak about politics on stage? Jordan Kenny from Newsbeat talks us through the different takes. We also discuss what’s next for Ed Sheeran and his career with our human Wikipedia, BBC music correspondent Mark Savage. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella, Emily Horler, Baldeep Chahal, Chelsea Coates and Liv Cleal Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• How does it feel to live in a bendy body?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर १७ · १३ मिनेट

  Can being ultra-flexible be a sign of a health condition? Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) cause joint hypermobility - which is when your joints have greater than normal range of motion. It means you might be able to bend your body in ways others can’t, but it can come with lots of health issues including digestive problems, joint pain and fatigue. It can take years to be diagnosed with HSD. We hear from Ana Simmons about how hypermobility affects her everyday life. And, BBC reporter Ella Kipling, who also has HSD, tells us why it’s so hard to get a diagnosis. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Benita Barden Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why Sydney Sweeney’s ad has angered women athletes

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर १६ · १२ मिनेट

  Sydney Sweeney has sparked controversy for a provocative ad campaign that appears to show her naked. It’s for the sports betting company Novig. In the advert, Sweeney is seen covering parts of her body with footballs, basketballs, golf clubs and other sports equipment and is heard repeating the word “sports.” But several women athletes — including Sophie Capewell, Amy Hunt, and Gracie Kramer — have criticised the campaign, saying it sexualises female athletes and views sport through the male gaze. Sweeney, who is best known for movies like ‘Anyone But You’ and ‘The Housemaid,’ hasn’t responded directly. BBC Sport journalist Sarah Dawkins tells us more. We also hear from female athletes and content creators, including German rugby international Sofie Fella, Aofie Hernon, and Izza Khan. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why flying can make you feel rough

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर १५ · १० मिनेट

  Ever wondered why you might feel a bit unwell after a flight? There are lots of reasons for that - from dehydration, jet lag, cabin pressure and altitude. Last month, a French court recognised that cosmic radiation was a factor in a flight attendant’s breast cancer diagnosis. Studies show that cabin crew and pilots have the highest level of radiation- related cancer deaths compared to more than 500 other jobs. We’re looking at what impacts flying regularly, and for long periods of time, can have on your body. We hear from Savannah, a pilot in the US, about what she does to keep herself healthy when sitting in a cockpit for hours. And Naomi, who is taking a break from being cabin crew, tells us how spending so much time in a plane has affected her. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Mollie Perella and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• Fertility and sport: When’s the best time to have a baby?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर १४ · १२ मिनेट

  You are at the top of your game in your sport. Maybe you are the best in the world. But, you also want to start a family. For many female athletes, these two things happen at the same time - with careers often peaking when athletes are most fertile - the ages of 20-29. Can you do both? We have seen athletes like Serena Williams, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Alice Kinsella do it. But how easy is it? Spain’s Football Federation, and Chelsea football team are paving the way to helping women have more options when it comes to their athletic careers and motherhood. We hear what several athletes think about the new fertility schemes announced, and we speak to Jo Perkins, an expert in female athlete health. She tells us why options like this are so important, but what else needs to be done. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why are more young Africans learning Russian?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर ११ · १० मिनेट

  Russia has been trying to grow its influence in Africa for years, with Russian paramilitary groups operating in countries such as Mali and Niger and Africans being recruited to fight in Russia’s war in Ukraine. But it’s not just through soldiers and paramilitaries - Russia has now announced plans to open eight new cultural centres across Africa. The new centres are expected to open in countries such as Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Senegal, and they will offer locals the opportunity to learn Russian, find out about Russian culture, and get help applying to study there. So, why is Russia opening more of them? And are more young Africans interested in learning Russian? The BBC’s West Africa Reporter Makuochi Okafor explains why Russia is keen to build more influence on the continent - and the other countries it’s competing with. We also hear from Raphael, a student based in Lagos who’s learning Russian, about whether he’s seen more people wanting to learn the language. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why some people are taking anxiety meds on nights out

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर १० · ११ मिनेट

  A series of recent studies suggests that drug use is increasing among Gen Z. Some young people are taking prescription anti-anxiety medications — such as propranolol and pregabalin — without a prescription. They’re buying them online or on the black market, exposing themselves to additional risks. Jacqui Wakefield, our Global Health Reporter, explains why some young people see these drugs as an alternative to alcohol. They want to reduce social anxiety on a night out and experience a feeling of euphoria, but without the calories and hangover that can come with heavy drinking. We discuss the risks associated with using these drugs without medical supervision, and the potential consequences for young people’s health. Warning: This episode includes references to suicidal thoughts. If you are affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, or are experiencing distress or despair and need support, you could speak to a health professional or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide: www.befrienders.org Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Video Journalist: Tim Hodges Editor: Verity Wilde

• Would you accept a job interview in front of judges and an audience?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर ९ · १० मिनेट

  In the current global economic environment, youth unemployment is higher than the national average in many countries, as companies are reluctant to take on new staff. According to the United Nations, the global youth unemployment rate rose to 12.4 per cent last year, meaning around 67 million people under 24 can’t find jobs. Now some companies are staging less conventional recruitment processes that are attracting job applicants and buzz. We speak with journalist MaryLou Costa about L'Oreal’s Brandstorm competition, which turns recruitment into an X Factor-style competition, with jobs as the prize. The process starts with domestic competitions around the world and culminates in a grand final in Paris. For the young people involved, is it exciting - or unfair? We hear from Allodya Arofa, a final-year university student who won the national competition in Indonesia, about her experience. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Editor: Verity Wilde

• We should all appreciate vultures more!

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर ८ · १३ मिनेट

  From memes to movies, we’ve all seen vultures getting a bit of a bad rep! The bird of prey is often linked to death and decay, but some people are trying to fight back and try and give them a bit of a rebrand. Kojo Baidoo is a vulture fan and birder in the US. He tells us about how he’s trying to rehab the vulture brand through social media and why we should have some more love for these feathered friends. Plus, Makuochi Okafor our West Africa reporter, explains how vultures are disappearing in Nigeria, but a man called the ‘Vulture King’ is trying to save them. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editors: Verity Wilde

• How does nine months at sea impact your mental health?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर ७ · ९ मिनेट

  After a record 250 consecutive days at sea, the USS Abraham Lincoln finally docked in Thailand last week. Half of the 5,000 crew members are under 24 years old and they’ve been on board since December, as part of the US-Israel war with Iran. There have been reports of difficult conditions on board, with food shortages, broken plumbing and concerns about the crew’s morale and mental health, but the US Navy says there haven't been severe problems on board. So how can spending months at sea impact your mental health? We speak to Dr Harold Kudler, a psychiatrist and former head of mental health policy for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, about the toll this can take. We also hear from Joe Franta, a merchant mariner and YouTuber who documents his experiences working on cargo ships. He shares what it’s like to be at sea for long periods of time. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Editor: Harriet Oliver

• Peekaboo! The story of Canada’s moving island

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर ४ · ९ मिनेट

  A floating island that appeared in a Canadian reservoir and seemed to vanish has returned. Officials at Williston Reservoir in British Columbia spent months tracking it through satellite imagery and discovered it had drifted 30 kilometres away. The island made international headlines and gained a loyal fan base on social media. Jake Horton from BBC Verify has been looking at the data and gave us an overview of what we can confirm about the island’s story. Plus, Jon Dickson, who specialising in marine wood and sea restoration tells us all about floating islands, and what it’s like to be on one. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Mollie Perella and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• What’s the right way to address your boss?

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर ३ · १० मिनेट

  Imagine you’ve just started a new job or it’s your first day at uni. You’re talking to your boss or teacher, someone who’s much older, much richer, or much more powerful than you. Do you call them by their first name? Or do you go with Mr, Mrs, Professor, Doctor? In Nigeria, a video of a young woman being corrected for calling a billionaire businessman, Tony Elumelu, by his first name has sparked a conversation about respect, age and power. We speak to three Nigerians to get their take on the story and how you should refer to your boss. Plus our reporter Basma El Atti in Nairobi, Kenya, tells us about the unwritten rules elsewhere in the world. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler, Mollie Perella and Stefania Okereke Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editors: Verity Wilde

• A look inside Latin America’s aura battles

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर २ · ११ मिनेट

  Aura farming has left your phone screen and landed in public squares all over Latin America. Hundreds of people are attending ‘aura battles’ - high-energy public competitions where the only way to win is show just how much raw charisma you have. Laura Garcia from BBC Mundo tells us exactly what it takes to prove your aura. Dani San, who’s been organising aura battles in Chile, tells us what it’s like to watch one unfold. Plus Mollie Perella from the What in the World team gets a lesson in ‘aura farming’ from Ava Arabian, a content creator from New York. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler, Benita Barden and Mollie Perella Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why women are often better investors than men

  २०२६ सेप्टेम्बर १ · १३ मिनेट

  Investing used to be seen as something that was for older people in suits, but now more young people are getting into it, thanks to the rise in online investing apps that have made it more accessible, and a growing awareness of how stocks and shares work. But data suggests that despite being less likely to start investing, women often make higher returns than men when they do. So, why are women often better at investing? And how does it work? BBC business reporter Emer Moreau unpacks the data on how women and men invest differently, what investing is and why it can be risky. We also chat to Viktoriia and Gabriella, two women in their 20s, about why they started investing and how they are finding it. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Chelsea Coates, Emily Horler and Emma-Louise Amanshia Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why humanoid robots matter to China

  २०२६ अगस्ट ३१ · १० मिनेट

  Videos from the second edition of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing have been going viral. Two thousand robots from 16 countries took part and the robots seem more human-like than ever. They dance, compete in boxing matches, sprint faster than Usain Bolt, and even lift weights (not always successfully). BBC China Analyst Kerry Allen explains how the Games relate to China’s international and domestic goals. Among other things, China’s leaders want to show the world how advanced their robotics industry is and demonstrate advances that will allow robots to strengthen China’s workforce. We also hear reactions from content creators Christina Ernst in the United States, Uchechukwu Ololo in Nigeria and Cheryl Liu in China. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams, Benita Barden and Mollie Perella Editor: Harriet Oliver

• GTA 6: Did the ‘extended look’ trailer live up to the hype?

  २०२६ अगस्ट २८ · ९ मिनेट

  Rockstar — the developer behind Grand Theft Auto 6 — has released the “extended look” trailer ahead of the game’s November release. The 26-minute preview offers fans the first detailed footage from the game. Among other things, the trailer showcases the relationship between protagonists Jason Duval and Lucia Camino and some very impressive chase scenes. The extended look premiered following a week of leaks. We get reaction from some popular gamers and content creators: Alogirlx in Canada, ColdJinn in India, Knightenator in the UK, and Nixstah in the United States. Plus BBC reporter Tom Richardson explains why people have been leaking content from the game and what the potential impact could be. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why influencers are rejecting the tradwife label

  २०२६ अगस्ट २७ · १५ मिनेट

  Tradwife content is everywhere - you’ve seen it on your feed. Influencers showing off their sourdough loaves while talking about how lucky they are to be stay-at-home wives, mothers, and girlfriends. For some, it looks like an aspirational lifestyle - fairy-tale wealth, a beautiful home, family and no 9-5 job. One of the biggest accounts like this is Nara Smith. And although she’s often seen as the face of the movement, she’s now said she doesn’t identify with the label. Others using the hashtag on their content say the same. We chat to Crystal Gorsuch, who is 20 and a stay-at-home mum. What does she think of the label and how has her content been received by people online? Plus, Chelsea from the team talks to us about how this trend is changing and where it might go next. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

• ‘I Will Always Love You’: Why the world is mourning Dolly Parton

  २०२६ अगस्ट २६ · १३ मिनेट

  Dolly Parton was a country music star like no other. Following her death from cancer on Tuesday, everyone from President Donald Trump to Beyoncé has expressed condolences online. But the public mourning isn’t just about Dolly’s catalogue of hits like “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene” and “9 to 5,” or her nearly 50 studio albums like “Backwoods Barbie.” William Lee Adams, a BBC culture reporter, explains why Dolly’s legacy has only grown with time. We discuss her uplifting personality, endlessly quotable quotes, and philanthropic endeavours — from donating a million dollars to help fund the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine to the Imagination Library, her charity that has gifted children more than 200 million free books. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Mollie Perella Editors: Verity Wilde

• The most detailed pictures of the Sun… EVER

  २०२६ अगस्ट २५ · १० मिनेट

  Scientists have snapped some shiny new pictures of the Sun in the most detail we’ve ever seen. They used a super powerful solar telescope to show "whirlpools" of activity which are the Sun’s magnetic field being twisted and moved by the motion of hot gas. Victoria Gill, our Science Correspondent chats to us about how the pictures were taken by the Inouye Solar Telescope and what they tell us about the universe. Plus, we hear from three space photography enthusiasts and science content creators. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler, Chelsea Coates and Adam Chowdhury Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Will the Divine app revive six-second loops on social media?

  २०२६ अगस्ट २४ · १० मिनेट

  Divine, a short-form video-sharing app, lets users create and share videos which are just six seconds long and repeat on a loop. It’s inspired by Vine, an app founded in 2012 that, at its peak, had more than 200 million monthly active users. It helped launch the careers of some of the internet's biggest stars, including Jake Paul and Lele Pons. Laura Cress, a BBC tech reporter, explains how the app plans to shake up social media by banning AI and moving away from an algorithm that feeds people videos specific to their taste and browsing habits. Instead it uses an open, decentralized design that encourages people to engage with similar videos as other users. Plus: Chelsea and Baldeep from the What in the World team re-enact some of the most iconic moments from the Vine era. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Editors: Verity Wilde

• So bad it’s good: How the Chinese cow movie ‘Niu Lai’ became a box office hit

  २०२६ अगस्ट २१ · १३ मिनेट

  Niu Lai, a low-budget Chinese animation film about a cow in a dream sequence, is going viral. Released on August 5, it earned less than $1,500 in its first ten days. But then — following snarky comments, bad reviews and widespread mockery by Gen-Z — the film found a larger audience and has now brought in more than $1.6 million dollars. We speak with William Lee Adams, a BBC culture reporter, and Mengchen Zhang from the BBC’s Global China Unit. They discuss the film’s plot, its rudimentary animation and how bad publicity has helped it go viral at home and abroad. We also hear about the origins of the film, which was made by a mother and son over the course of five years. Plus: Chinese content creator Marcelo Wang offers his hot take, and Utah-based content creator Cameron Cowley shares three of his favourite “so bad they’re good” films. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Benita Barden and William Lee Adams Editors: Verity Wilde

• Is it okay to run shirtless in public?

  २०२६ अगस्ट २० · १३ मिनेट

  Do you run without a a shirt on ever? Lots of people have opinions on this topic and in some parts of the world it’s something you’re just not allowed to do. We hear from runners around the world for their take on the decision to run without a shirt one - for both men and women. And Yijin Shim from BBC Korean tells us about how in South Korea “no shirtless running” signs have been popping up after more runners have been going shirtless in a heatwave. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler, Chelsea Coates and Adam Chowdhury Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editors: Verity Wilde

• How the ‘luteal uglies’ impact women during their periods

  २०२६ अगस्ट १९ · ११ मिनेट

  Across social media young women are discussing the "luteal uglies." These are changes in appearance and mood that women experience during the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. We hear from women in Vietnam, the Philippines, and the UK about the symptoms they experience, from acne and bloating to fatigue and brain fog. But what’s behind these changes? Dr Helen O'Neill, an associate professor in reproductive and molecular genetics at University College London, explains how changing hormone levels impact women’s bodies and their brains. She also offers some tips and coping strategies. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Emma-Louise Amanshia Editors: Verity Wilde

• Will AI make your degree pointless?

  २०२६ अगस्ट १८ · ११ मिनेट

  AI isn’t just occasionally going rogue…(Open AI and Meta we’re looking at you) it’s also changing the world of work. Nearly 70% of college students in the US said they thought AI would make it harder to find a job in a recent survey - and 22% said that they’ve changed what they’re deciding to study at university because of this. They’re not the only ones… students all over the world are thinking about how to AI-proof their future careers. In this episode, we go to the University College London campus to speak to three students: Omer, who’s studying French and German, Zahra, who’s studying entrepreneurship, and Allie, who’s just graduated from Kings College after completing her law studies. They tell us how they think AI could change the course of their careers, how they’re adapting to the new technology, and if their degrees will still be helpful in the face of AI. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams, Chelsea Coates and Benita Barden Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editors: Verity Wilde

• Tupac trial: What you need to know

  २०२६ अगस्ट १७ · १२ मिनेट

  Rapper Tupac Shakur is one of the most influential music artists ever - with musicians such as Kendrick Lamar, Justin Bieber and Drake citing him as a major inspiration. His career was cut short in 1996 when he was killed in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas - but now, nearly three decades later, a man is going on trial, accused of his murder. He’s called Duane "Keffe D" Davis - he has pled not guilty and denies all allegations. So, what we can expect from the trial? And how is Tupac’s music continuing to influence hip-hop, decades after his murder? We speak to culture journalist Ivie Ani, who’s based in New York, to learn more about the impact Tupac has had on music today. We also hear from Tupac fans that have discovered his legacy in the years since his death - and from Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty, host of the BBC’s Fame Under Fire podcast. She is in Las Vegas covering the rapper’s murder trial. You can follow the trial by listening to the Fame Under Fire podcast here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0030zm4 Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams, Chelsea Coates and Emma-Louise Amanshia Editors: Verity Wilde

• Why AI music is getting labelled on streaming sites

  २०२६ अगस्ट १४ · १० मिनेट

  What would you do if you found out that your favourite artist was not actually human? More musicians are using AI-tools for their work. But recently, there has also been a boom in AI Personas and 100% AI generated work. Some fans and musicians are not happy, they have called for more transparency around what’s human made. Streaming websites have also raised concerns about fraud and copyright infringement. Tidal and Deezer have outright banned the promotion of this AI content. And now Spotify has announced it will begin labelling songs that are AI generated. BBC Newsbeat journalist, Eleanor Doyle, talks us through how you can spot AI generated music, how it has made and how regulating it on streaming platforms might work. Plus, we also hear from two musicians, Marina Josephina in the UK, and Nkasiobi Chukwu in Nigeria about their experiences with AI music. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Benita Barden and Eleanor Sly Editors: Verity Wilde

• How extreme rain is putting orangutans at risk

  २०२६ अगस्ट १३ · ११ मिनेट

  Orangutans are the world’s most endangered apes and they’re now even closer to extinction. They live on two islands in southeast Asia: Sumatra and Borneo. In November, an extreme weather event in the area killed more than 1,000 people there, plus about 7% of the world’s rarest type of orangutan according to a new study. BBC Climate and Science reporter Georgina Rannard takes us through how orangutans are being pushed towards extinction and what some countries and charities are doing to protect them. We also hear from a conservationist making an effort to save the species. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editors: Verity Wilde

• How heatwaves impact people with disabilities

  २०२६ अगस्ट १२ · १० मिनेट

  Heatwaves are uncomfortable for everyone. But people living with disabilities face additional and specific challenges that can compromise their health and well-being. Many of these issues - from struggling service dogs to overheating wheelchairs - are frequently overlooked, even in public advice and emergency planning. Maddie Molloy is a BBC climate and science reporter who is also profoundly deaf. She explains some of the challenges a heatwave can pose for deaf people, the visually impaired and people who use wheelchairs. We also hear from Blessing Odukoya, Emily Davison, Maddie Haining and Osayuki Igbinoba about how they cope with the heat. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Adam Chowdhury Editors: Verity Wilde

• Is working from home holding you back in your career?

  २०२६ अगस्ट ११ · ११ मिनेट

  Working from home has plenty of benefits: no commute, greater flexibility and the chance to catch up on household chores during your break. But for young people starting out their careers, could this extra freedom actually have a negative impact on career progression? Emer Moreau, a BBC Business Reporter, breaks it down. She explains how the pandemic led to a huge increase in at-home and remote working, and looks at how many people have now returned to in-person work. She also discusses the impact working from home has on productivity, how it affects the social nature of working life, and the ways it can slow someone's effort to climb the career ladder. We also hear from young people about their experiences with remote working. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates, William Lee Adams, and Benita Barden Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editors: Verity Wilde

• Loudcasting: Is it ever OK to go headphone free in public?

  २०२६ अगस्ट १० · ११ मिनेट

  There’s a name for when people blare out music, scroll through social media on full volume or talk on loudspeaker in public - loudcasting. Surveys show that in the U.K. most adults find this behaviour irritating, but there’s also data suggesting that your age and culture may influence how indifferent you are to this kind of noise. BBC Reporter Angus Thompson tells us what experts say and explains why some people get so annoyed. Plus we hear from our friends across the World Service about loudcasting in their country. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden Editors: Verity Wilde

• Oil giants make record profits during Iran war

  २०२६ अगस्ट ७ · ९ मिनेट

  Oil prices have shot up since the US-Israel war with Iran began, and the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, has been almost completely closed. It’s been bad news for drivers, airlines and anyone already feeling the squeeze from the cost of living. But for some of the world’s biggest oil companies, it’s been very good news. Oil giants like ExxonMobil and Chevron are reporting huge profits. And at the same time, we’re seeing record-breaking heatwaves, with wildfires raging in parts of Europe and Asia. Our resident business expert, Emer Moreau, tells us about the oil giants’ profits and how the high costs are impacting all of us. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Emily Horler, Chelsea Coates and Adam Chowdhury Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why everyone is talking about attachment theory

  २०२६ अगस्ट ६ · ११ मिनेट

  In recent years, attachment theory has exploded into the public consciousness. On TikTok, videos tagged #AttachmentTheory have racked up hundreds of millions of views, with some advising users on how to become more securely attached. The theory was first developed in the 1950s by John Bowlby, and suggests that the bonds we form with early givers shape our expectations in adult relationships. Further research has expanded our understanding of how we connect since then, and offered a more nuanced view on attachment. But this is not always reflected in popular videos online. We speak to Josh Elgin, a BBC journalist who’s been reporting on discussions of attachment theory. Plus we hear from Dr Amir Levine, a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University and author of Attached, a book which played an influential role in bringing attachment to the mainstream. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Chelsea Coates, Benita Barden and Eleanor Sly Video Producer: Adam Chowdhury and Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Ariana Grande: Is it ever okay to comment on people’s bodies?

  २०२६ अगस्ट ५ · १३ मिनेट

  Ariana Grande has announced that she's planning to take a break from the public eye after her Eternal Sunshine tour ends in September. She started her performing career when she was a kid and has since become one of the biggest pop stars in the world, winning three Grammys and most recently portraying Glinda in the hit film Wicked. But over the past couple of years, a lot of the conversation online about Ariana hasn't been about her music or acting: it's been about her appearance. That's despite her asking people repeatedly not to comment on her body over the years. Her most recent music video, Petal, went viral after some fans said they were concerned about how thin she was. So, is it ever ok to talk about a celebrity's health or appearance? And where's the line between concern and scrutiny? Chelsea Coates from the What in the World team joins us to discuss it all - and we hear how Ariana’s fans are reacting to her decision to take a break. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde If you are concerned about your health, you could speak to a health professional. If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, you could speak to a health professional or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide. www.befrienders.org

• AMOC: Could the ocean system collapse?

  २०२६ अगस्ट ४ · १२ मिनेट

  Disaster movie The Day After Tomorrow showed the world hit by extreme weather events caused by disruption to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). Today, even though the events of the film are highly unlikely to happen, scientists are concerned by changes to the AMOC. The AMOC is a massive north-south system of currents in the Atlantic Ocean that carries warm surface water towards the Arctic and returns colder water thousands of miles south through the deep ocean. It impacts weather patterns across the world from north-west Europe, to west Africa and all the way to India. However, scientists are worried that climate change is weakening the system which could lead to dramatic changes in weather around the world. BBC Weather presenter Sarah Keith-Lucas explains what the AMOC is, what exactly scientists are worried about and what the potential impacts could be if the AMOC is weakened or collapses entirely. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Adam Chowdhury Video Producer: Adam Chowdhury Editors: Emily Horler & Verity Wilde

• Tyla removes Nigeria from her world tour dates

  २०२६ अगस्ट ३ · १० मिनेट

  Protests against undocumented migrants have been going on for months in South Africa. We’ve talked about them on the podcast before - people are protesting against illegal immigrants, and some of the marches have turned violent and deadly. Houses have been burned down, shops looted, and countries like Ghana and Nigeria have even evacuated some of their citizens from the country. But these protests aren’t just affecting politics and South Africa’s relationships with other countries on the continent. They’re also impacting sports and pop culture. Now, Tyla, the South African pop star, has taken Nigeria off her world tour dates. She hasn’t given a reason, but thousands of Nigerians had signed a petition urging her to stay away. So that’s what we’re getting into today with Makuochi Okafor, our West Africa Reporter. Plus, we hear from people in Nigeria on what they think about it all. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Chelsea Coates, Benita Barden and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why are we talking about the World Cup again?

  २०२६ जुलाई ३१ · १२ मिनेट

  It’s less than two weeks after Spain won the men’s World Cup, but suddenly the tournament is back in the headlines. This time it’s because of a plan from Fifa’s President Gianni Infantino to sell a stake in their tournaments to private investors. Infantino says it’s a chance to “turbocharge” the development of the game - and national associations have been offered millions of dollars if they agree to the plans. It’s fair to say the plans haven’t gone down well with everyone - with European’s governing body Uefa saying their members won’t go to any World Cups (men’s or women’s) if the plans go through. We talk to BBC Sport’s Isaac Fanin (fresh from a month at the World Cup) about what the plans are, what the response has been and what might happen next. NB: We recorded this episode on Friday morning and it’s all changing so fast we have to keep rewriting this description… Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Emma-Louise Amanshia Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why is everyone ditching alcohol?

  २०२६ जुलाई ३० · १५ मिनेट

  You might have heard Gen Z being called the “sober generation” - the data suggests that we’re less likely to drink than older generations, that alcohol-free brands are getting more popular with under-30s and there’s a huge push towards sobriety and wellness culture more generally. At the same time, pre-mixed cocktails are flying off the shelves - and new figures suggest that binge drinking has gone up. So is Gen Z really drinking less than previous generations? Or is that just a myth? In this episode, we go to one of London’s alcohol-free pubs to chat to three guests who all stopped drinking in their 20s: Millie, founder of the Sober Girl Society and author of HANGXIETY, Daniel, creative director of The Scene, a South Asian-led collective organising alcohol-free events in London, and Tyler, a content creator. We discuss how drinking culture is changing — and whether quitting alcohol is on the rise for Gen Z. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and William Lee Adams Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why Gen Z love birdwatching apps

  २०२६ जुलाई २९ · १२ मिनेट

  This year alone, tens of millions of people have downloaded apps which help you identify birds, lots of them are Gen Z. In our gardens, local parks on the street or even just with phones sticking out of a window people are using these apps everyday. But why? We hear from BBC Tech reporter Liv McMahon about just how big these apps are and what is making them so popular. Plus, we talk to young birders in the UK and Canada who tell us about their love for birds and what makes these apps so special. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Chelsea Coates, Emma-Louise Amanshia and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why are rich people obsessed with owning dinosaur bones?

  २०२६ जुलाई २८ · १२ मिनेट

  Dinosaur bones have become one of the world’s most expensive collector’s items, with some selling for tens of millions of dollars at auction. A Tyrannosaurus rex fossil recently sold for $50 million, making it the most expensive dinosaur ever auctioned. Some celebrities, including Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe, have their own private collections. So why are the ultra wealthy spending so much money on dinosaur bones, and what does it mean for science? We speak to BBC Climate and Science journalist Esme Stallard about why they have become so valuable, who is buying them, and why many scientists are concerned about private ownership. We also hear from Professor Steve Brusatte, a palaeontologist at the University of Edinburgh and consultant on the Jurassic Park films, about why these ancient fossils matter and the growing debate over who should really own them. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Adam Chowdhury, William Lee Adams and Emma-Louise Amanshia Video producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Emily Horler

• OpenAI went rogue. What now?

  २०२६ जुलाई २७ · ९ मिनेट

  The headlines do sound slightly like the plot of a sci-fi film… but Open AI recently announced that one of its most advanced AI models went ‘rogue’ - and hacked a start-up called Hugging Face. The cyber attack, which the ChatGPT-maker called ‘unprecedented’, took place even though the AI model was being tested in a controlled environment. Open AI says they’re still investigating and they want to implement what they learn from this to stop it happening again. But how was the AI model able to do this in the first place? And more importantly… should we be worried about AI chatbots taking over? BBC Tech reporter Laura Cress gives us the lowdown on how OpenAI’s model managed to hack a company - and what safeguards governments and AI companies are putting in place to combat this. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Editor: Emily Horler

• A simple guide to India’s ‘cockroach’ protests

  २०२६ जुलाई २४ · ११ मिनेट

  Huge crowds have been gathering in Jantar Mantar in Delhi all week in support of India’s newest political movement - The Cockroach Janta Party. Supporters are asking for education reforms and the resignation of the country’s Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, sparked by repeated exam papers leaks. Over 2 million students were told they would have to resit their exams this year after they were cancelled in May. Several people were injured in a police crackdown on protestors marching to parliament. One activist, Sonam Wangchuk, has been on hunger strike for weeks in support of the Cockroach Janta Party. The BBC’s South Asia Correspondent Azadeh Moshiri is in Delhi where most of the protests are going on. She breaks down how they all started and answers the question, could this lead to real change for students in India? Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: Benita Barden and Chelsea Coates Editor: Emily Horler

• Why Chinese actors are being replaced with AI

  २०२६ जुलाई २३ · ९ मिनेट

  The emergence of micro dramas led to transformation of China’s entertainment industry, cutting costs for sets and boosting jobs for newer actors. There were early estimates that the micro-drama market would be worth $14bn by 2027. But now the emergence of AI tools has changed things once again. Actors and sets can be generated with AI, so production has accelerated and costs have lowered even further. The quality of the content has also massively changed thanks to the uncanny visuals AI can make. We speak to BBC Global China Unit’s Mengchen Zhang about how this is affecting actors in China especially. We also hear about concerns around rights and the use of people’s likeness in this style of content. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emma Louise Amanshia, Benita Barden and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why is The Odyssey so controversial?

  २०२६ जुलाई २२ · १२ मिनेट

  Christopher Nolan's latest film, The Odyssey, is already making headlines. Shot entirely with IMAX 70mm cameras, it’s got a star-studded cast including Zendaya, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson and Lupita Nyong'o. The epic has also had a huge box office opening, earning nearly $260 million worldwide - that makes it one of the year's biggest releases so far. But not everyone is celebrating. From casting choices to its portrayal of Greek mythology, the film has sparked debate and criticism online. We speak to BBC Culture's Nicholas Barber to break down the controversy and explain why so many people are talking about it. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Chelsea Coates and Stefania Okereke Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why more young men are trying to quit porn

  २०२६ जुलाई २१ · ११ मिनेट

  Loads of young men watch porn and there are plenty of studies that suggest it can be bad for mental health and relationships. Some governments have restricted access to porn sites, and there’s a growing movement towards cutting out porn. Freddie Woodward is a British Diver and quit porn two years ago. He tell us why he did it. Some people have healthy relationships with porn but there is some misinformation online and even harmful claims about sex, porn and masturbation. Jacqui Wakefield, our Global Health Correspondent, takes us through some of these claims. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Eleanor Sly Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Meet the Likweli: The orange-lipped monkey hidden in DR Congo

  २०२६ जुलाई २० · ११ मिनेट

  A monkey with striking orange lips and a black furry coat has been officially recognised as a new species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It was first spotted back in 2008, but at the time researchers only managed to capture a blurry photograph, leaving many questions unanswered. Years later, after extensive fieldwork and research, scientists have finally confirmed it as a species new to science. They've named it “Colobus congoensis”, while local communities have long known it as “Likweli”. Our BBC Science Correspondent Victoria Gill reveals what makes this monkey so special and how researchers finally solved the mystery of its identity. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Stefania Okereke Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why football fans feel devastated when their team loses

  २०२६ जुलाई १७ · ११ मिनेट

  A record 48 teams competed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Now, with the tournament nearing the final on Sunday, 46 nations have been eliminated, leaving millions of fans to process their team’s defeat. Football has an extraordinary ability to unite people. Fans have travelled across the world to support their teams, while millions more have gathered in homes, pubs and public spaces to share every moment together. Victory brings elation, celebration and national pride. But defeat can trigger equally powerful emotions – disappointment, anger, grief and even a sense of emptiness. So why do football results affect us so deeply? In this episode, Martha Newson, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Greenwich, explains the psychology behind our emotional investment in the beautiful game. We also hear from football fans in Belgium, Egypt, England and France about what it felt like to watch their teams lose on the biggest stage. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Adam Chowdhury Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why being a tattoo artist was illegal in South Korea for so long?

  २०२६ जुलाई १६ · १० मिनेट

  For decades, only licensed doctors were allowed to ink tattoos in South Korea and breaking the law could lead to heavy fines or jail. Now, that law has been overturned, but there’s still a lot of stigma around body art in Korea, and east Asia more generally. Leehyun Choi, our BBC Reporter in Seoul, takes us through why and what is changing in South Korea. Plus, we hear from a Korean tattoo artist in the UK (@doo__tattoo) and a Japanese tattoo artist in Osaka, Japan (@taiki__tattoo) about how they see stigma towards tattoos changing. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler, Benita Barden and Lucy Davies Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• How periods can affect your ADHD

  २०२६ जुलाई १५ · १० मिनेट

  ADHD is a condition that causes difficulties with things like concentrating, regulating emotions and sitting still. And many young women living with ADHD say their symptoms worsen during specific periods of their menstrual cycle. Now, a first of its kind study by Queen Mary University and Kings College in London is putting that potential link to the test. They’re asking around 50 women who have ADHD and are taking medication for it to track their menstrual cycle and the impact it has on their ADHD symptoms, and daily life more broadly. Dr Jessica Agnew-Blais, lead academic on the study, explains the motivations behind her work and why past ADHD studies have focused mostly on men and boys. We also hear from two women living with ADHD who explain how their symptoms change during their menstrual cycle. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

• How a $2m treatment cured my sickle cell disease

  २०२६ जुलाई १४ · १० मिनेट

  Sickle cell is a genetic blood condition that can cause severe pain, extreme tiredness and serious health complications. It mainly affects people of African and Caribbean heritage, and for many, it's something they've had to live with their whole lives. But that could be changing. We meet Daniel Cressy, a young man from Louisiana whose dream is to become a pilot. After years of living with sickle cell, he received a ground-breaking treatment that has effectively cured him. He shares what life was like before and what it's like now to be sickle cell free. We'll also hear from Dr Steven Okoli, who breaks down how these new treatments work and what needs to happen to make them available to more people across the world. Could we be entering a future where sickle cell is no longer a lifelong condition? Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: William Lee Adams and Stefania Okereke Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• The Polygamist: How the Netflix show is starting conversations in South Africa

  २०२६ जुलाई १३ · १२ मिनेट

  There’s a new Netflix show that has got lots of us talking: The Polygamist. It’s a drama based in South Africa about a wealthy businessman named Jonasi Gomora who has multiple wives and a mistress. It’s packed with betrayal, revenge… and cheating. It’s become the most-watched Netflix show in South Africa and Kenya, and it’s hit the top 10 in countries like Nigeria and Romania too. But it’s also got people talking about polygamous relationships - which are legal in South Africa and many other countries - and whether they work. BBC reporter Khanyisile Ngcobo joins us from Johannesburg to unpick how people in South Africa have been reacting to the show, how polygamy traditionally works, and how conversations around it are changing. And we hear from fans in Ghana, South Africa, the US and the UK, who share what their group chats have been saying about the hit show. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

• Should you wear earplugs to concerts?

  २०२६ जुलाई १० · १२ मिनेट

  According to the National Institute of Health, long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. The noise levels at a big concert or live music gig typically fall between 90 and 120 dBA, according to the British Academy of Audiology. These levels depend on things like the type of music, whether the venue is indoors or outdoors, and how close you stand to the speakers. So what impact is this level of noise having on our ears and can the trendy, visible earplugs that are booming online protect you from hearing loss. We speak to Andrew Rogers from BBC Newsbeat who has been reporting from gigs and festivals across the UK and speaking to earplug users. BBC Health Correspondent, James Gallagher gives us a full explanation on what happens inside our ears when we are in loud environments. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Lucy Davies, Benita Barden,Eleanor Sly and Liv Cleal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Are maybelaterships the new situationships?

  २०२६ जुलाई ९ · ११ मिनेट

  You've heard of a situationship. Now meet its chaotic cousin: the ‘maybelatership'. It's when someone says they want a relationship... just not right now. So are more people putting commitment on hold? How do you know if you're in a ‘maybelatership’? And what does this latest dating trend tell us about modern dating? Chelsea Coates from the What in the World team explains how ‘maybelaterships’ differ from situationships, why they can leave one person stuck in limbo, and whether they can ever become healthy, committed relationships. We also hear from a dating coach on how to communicate your expectations and avoid waiting around for someone might not want to commit. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: James Beardsworth, Ash Mohamed and William Lee Adams Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• China says no to AI boyfriends

  २०२६ जुलाई ८ · ११ मिनेट

  AI has evolved. It’s not just typing a message or speaking to robot-like voice similar to Siri anymore. Now there are apps where you can design AI companions - digital characters customised to act, look and sound however you want. Some users have made AI boyfriends or AI life assistants. Experts have raised concerns about misuse and how apps like this can reinforce negative or even risky behaviours. The market is continuing to grow globally but China has become the first country to introduce regulation in this area, due to take effect next week. We chat to BBC’s China Media Analyst, Kerry Allen, about what is behind China’s clamp down on these apps. Plus, we hear from an AI companion user. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Benita Barden, Emily Horler and Liv Cleal Editor: Verity Wilde

• How dangerous is extreme heat?

  २०२६ जुलाई ७ · १० मिनेट

  Extreme heat is becoming more common around the world. From Europe to India, record-breaking heatwaves are affecting millions of people - but what is all that heat actually doing to our bodies? Brain fog, poor sleep, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are just some of the ways extreme heat can affect our health. So when does hot weather become dangerous, and how can you stay safe during a heatwave? BBC Health Editor and doctor Michelle Roberts explains how the body keeps itself cool, why extreme heat can become life-threatening, and who is most at risk. We also hear from some of you about how you're coping with increasingly extreme temperatures where you live. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Stefania Okereke Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Why is West Africa experiencing extreme rainfall and floods

  २०२६ जुलाई ६ · १३ मिनेट

  West Africa has been struggling with heavy rains. Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast and other countries across the region have had severe flooding - you might have seen videos online. Deep water, filled gutters and lots of people trying to get to safety. People have sadly died in the floods - at least 59 people in Ivory Coast and 13 people in Ghana. And more heavy rains are expected. We hear from some of you in Ivory Coast, Ghana and Lagos for how you’ve been affected. Makuochi Okafor, our West Africa reporter, explains what’s been happening in the region. Plus, Sophia Herod, from BBC Weather, takes us through how the weather works in this part of the world and how much climate change is playing a role in the rains. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: Benita Barden and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde

• The Biggest Wedding of the Year: Taylor’s Version

  २०२६ जुलाई ३ · १० मिनेट

  Are those wedding bells we’re hearing? If the rumours are true, pop star Taylor Swift could get married this Independence Day weekend to NFL star Travis Kelce…in Madison Square Garden arena in the middle of New York City. It’s one of the most anticipated celebrity weddings of the year - but is any of the speculation actually true? The BBC’s music correspondent Mark Savage joins us to chat through what we know so far…and why Taylor Swift might have chosen Madison Square Garden as the venue for her big day. We also hear from Swifties on their thoughts and hopes for the wedding and ask: Could this all be a decoy for something else? Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

• Does lifting weights help you live longer?

  २०२६ जुलाई २ · ९ मिनेट

  Not to sound like a gym bro…but the science is clear: more of us should start lifting. Strength training is when you lift weights or use your own body weight to build muscle — and it’s not just about toning up or getting ripped. A new study found it can actually help you live longer. So why is it so good for your health - and how can you start doing more of it? Health correspondent Melissa Hogenboom joins us to unpack the latest studies on strength training and why we’re seeing a rise in its popularity. Personal trainer and nutritionist Luke Hanna explains the science behind the long-term health benefits of lifting weights. And we hear from some of you about why you’re getting into weightlifting. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates and Emily Horler Video producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Flag-switching: Why more World Cup footballers aren’t playing for their birth nations

  २०२६ जुलाई १ · १२ मिनेट

  The 2026 Fifa Men's World Cup has the highest proportion ever of players representing countries they were not born in - almost a quarter of all the participating players. Several squads, including those from DR Congo, Morocco and Bosnia & Herzegovina, have a team made up mostly of foreign-born players. Of the 26 players who represented Curaçao, only one was born on the Caribbean island. Fernando Duarte, a reporter with the BBC World Service, explains why more World Cup footballers aren’t playing for their birth nations. He also highlights how Morocco, the only African team ever to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup, has successfully recruited players from its diaspora. We also hear from football fans around the world about the foreign-born players representing Cape Verde, Curaçao, Morocco and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams Editor: Verity Wilde

• Biohacking:The men trying to supercharge their sperm count

  २०२६ जुन ३० · ११ मिनेट

  When you think of fertility, you might automatically think of women’s fertility. But there are men online doing something called ‘fertilitymaxxing’ - it’s all about young men trying a bunch of unproven hacks in hopes of improving their sperm health. Content with these hacks are often pushed by male wellness and manosphere influencers online - but is this really about raising more awareness of male fertility (which is an under-researched issue)? Or is it about other anxieties Gen Z men might have about their health - and masculinity more generally? Jacqui Wakefield is our Global Health Correspondent and has been speaking to men, like Simon in Miami, who have been doing things like icing his testicles in a bid to boost sperm count. And also Professor Channa Jayasena, a reproductive endocrinologist and Imperial College, explains that some medicines these influencers are recommending can be very dangerous. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde

• Venezuela earthquake: How long can trapped victims survive under rubble?

  २०२६ जुन २९ · १० मिनेट

  After a devastating double earthquake in Venezuela, tens of thousands of people are still believed to be missing, with many trapped under rubble. Nearly 1,500 people have been confirmed dead and the death toll is expected to rise. Aid agencies say the first 72 hours after a disaster are the most critical to finding people alive. But there is a lack of heavy machinery and specialised equipment needed to rescue people. Much of the emergency response is being carried out by volunteers and international aid workers from Turkey, the UK and France. BBC’s Global Affairs reporter Mimi Swaby gives us the latest update on the situation. Against all odds, several videos online show miraculous stories of survival, like young infants and children being lifted from the rubble. Bill Murphy, a professor of engineering geology at the University of Leeds in the UK, tells us what increases the chances of survival in awful conditions like these. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producer: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

• GTA 6: What we know so far

  २०२६ जुन २६ · १० मिनेट

  Buzz around the GTA 6 pre-order is building fast. After two trailers and a 13-year wait, fans can finally play the latest instalment of the game on 19 November when it’s released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S. Priced at $79.99 and $100 for its standard and premium versions in the US, it’s expected to generate billions for its developer Rockstar Games. BBC technology reporter Laura Cress explains the scale and significance of the upcoming release. We also hear from GTA fans from Italy, South Africa and Canada about why they love the game. Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Stefania Okereke Editor: Verity Wilde

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