The BBC Global News Podcast explores a variety of international stories. It highlights serious developments, such as an ethics report accusing Donald Trump's Attorney General nominee of major crimes, and protests in Germany in response to a Christmas market attack. The podcast also covers the formation of a new government in France amid political unrest, the heartfelt homecoming of a Syrian journalist to his war-ravaged hometown, and a deadly subway attack in New York. Additionally, it discusses Norway's successful shift to electric vehicles, a crackdown on Tibetan protesters opposing a Chinese dam, allegations of a smear campaign against Blake Lively orchestrated by Justin Baldoni, and the unique dual role of a Santa's grotto in Finland, which also serves as a bomb shelter. Through these stories, the podcast sheds light on diverse political climates, social challenges, and the human consequences of global happenings.