Surprising stories from unusual places. With ideas too big for a single episode, The Compass presents mini-series about the environment and politics, culture and society.

Here's where to find podcasts from The Nation. Political talk without the boring parts, featuring the writers, activists and artists who shape the news, from a progressive perspective.

Covering politics from the far center

The Irish Times' unrivalled foreign affairs coverage, now brought to you in weekly podcast form. Hosted by Chris Dooley with regular contributors Patrick Smyth, Denis Staunton, Lara Marlowe, Suzanne Lynch, Derek Scally, Tom Hennigan, Clifford Coonan and Ruadhan Mac Cormaic.

An independent podcast examining what the U.S. Congress is doing with our money and in our names. www.congressionaldish.com Follow @JenBriney on Twitter

This is the latest news in English from NHK WORLD RADIO JAPAN. This service is daily updated. For more information, please go to https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/.

The Inquiry gets beyond the headlines to explore the trends, forces and ideas shaping the world.

Fareed Zakaria GPS takes a comprehensive look at foreign affairs and global policies through in-depth, one-on-one interviews and fascinating roundtable discussions.

Host Paul John Roach and his guests find the mystical core and explore the perennial philosophy amidst the infinite variety of the world’s religions and spiritual traditions. Paul emphasizes the practical application of spiritual wisdom imparted from poets, writers, philosophers, mystics, and scriptures in order to foster a deeper awareness and understanding in our everyday lives. Explore over 650 shows with thought leaders and spiritual teachers. #PaulJohnRoach.com

Short documentaries and adventures in sound presented by Josie Long.

TIME Senior Correspondent Charlotte Alter hosts candid conversations with the people who shape the world, about the forces that shape them. Tune in each Thursday to meet TIME's Person of the Week.

Left, Right & Center is KCRW’s weekly civilized yet provocative confrontation over politics, policy and pop culture.

Start your day off your right with Evan Cohen, Chris Canty and Michelle Smallmon. Sports, life and laughter are what it’s all about. Energizing, informative and just want you need to take on the day.

Interviews, news and analysis of the day's global events.

Soul Search explores contemporary religion and spirituality from the inside out — what we believe, how we express it, and the difference it makes in our lives

Reflections from a faith perspective on issues and people in the news.