PLAY PODCASTS
Feedback

Feedback

481 episodes — Page 6 of 10

15/12/2017

Roger Bolton with listener views on BBC radio programmes.The way in which we listen to radio is radically changing. On Monday this week, the BBC launched its first full voice app for voice recognition speakers. Editor of Voice Mukul Devichand describes how the new way of listening works, demonstrating how this technology will allow greater access to the BBC's range of live radio stations and podcasts.Also, we hear from listener Roslyn Byfield about a recent item on World at One about teenage mental health. She discusses the audio diaries of a teenage girl suffering from anxiety.Tweet of the Day is one of BBC Radio 4's best-loved programmes, but has it moved too far away from its original format, putting famous voices above birdsong? Editor James Cook discusses the programme and responds to listener comments on Michael Morpurgo's analysis of the magpie.And - how radio changes lives. Listeners Simon Rennie and Libby Tempest tell us how an edition of In Our Time helped inspire change.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Dec 15, 201727 min

08/12/2017

Roger Bolton with listeners' views on a range of BBC radio programmes.When iPM broadcast an interview with a sex offender at length, some listeners wrote to tell us they disagreed that a convicted criminal should have been given such a platform. Listener Catherine Jackson tells us why she thought this was inappropriate and expresses her concern about the impact on his victims.And just how much of a predicament can BBC presenters find themselves in while on air? BBC World Service presenter Alex Ritson tells us what happened when he experienced a Type 1 diabetes attack during a morning broadcast of The Newsroom. Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Dec 8, 201727 min

01/12/2017

Roger Bolton with listeners' views on BBC radio programmes.Earlier this week Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their engagement, followed by their first joint interview with the BBC presenter Mishal Husain. But should the presenter have highlighted Ms Markle's mixed race background? We hear your views on the royal engagement coverage.In a fast-moving situation, how do you discover what is really going on? The BBC's Southern Africa Correspondent Andrew Harding tells us how he reported on recent events in Zimbabwe.Also Radio 4's recent dramatisation of Graham Greene's novel Stamboul Train included some of the author's original anti-Semitic passages. Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Drama and Fiction Jeremy Howe tells us why he decided not to edit out some of those remarks.And Roger goes behind-the-scenes at Radio 4's consumer affairs programme You and Yours, sitting down with presenter Winifred Robinson to hear more about how the programme interacts with its listeners.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Dec 1, 201727 min

24/11/2017

Roger Bolton with listener views on BBC radio programmes.Following a series of misogynistic and anti-semitic tweets, Josh Rivers was sacked from his position as editor of Gay Times and PM ran a 20 minute interview with the former editor. It was much to the consternation of some Feedback listeners who took issue with the amount of airtime Rivers was allowed and the way in which the interview was conducted by presenter Eddie Mair. PM Editor Roger Sawyer discusses his editorial decision and explains why he thinks it was in the public interest to hear Josh Rivers' views.The second part of an interview with Sioned Wiliam, BBC Radio 4's Commissioning Editor for Comedy, focuses on whether there are enough women in comedy programmes and how she finds new talent. Lazy Susan, one of Sioned's recent discoveries, explain how they got the gig and tell us about the format for their new duo show - part spoof, part homage to popular US podcasts.And we meet a couple for whom radio became their lifeline. When Rob and Eeva John were taken hostage in northern Ethiopia in 1984, their only contact with the outside world was through a hidden shortwave radio. Nicola Kelly spoke to them about their ordeal and the role radio had to play in their release.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Nov 24, 201727 min

17/11/2017

Roger Bolton speaks to Jon Manel about his series The Adoption and to Sioned Wiliam, Commissioning Editor for Comedy on Radio 4 and Radio 4 Extra.This week, the 17-part series that followed two young children through the UK adoption process drew to a close. Listeners wrote in to tell us of their interest and commitment to the series - with some expressing concern about the intrusive nature of the programme, particularly with regard to safeguarding measures for the two children. Others said they didn't think it should be part of flagship news and current affairs programme The World at One. Reporter and producer Jon Manel responds to these comments and explains how the series was made.Also, we hear views on The Food Programme's report on Catalonia's cultural identity.And we put your questions and comments about Radio 4 comedy to the Commissioning Editor Sioned Wiliam, in the first instalment of a two-part interview. Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Nov 17, 201727 min

10/11/2017

Roger Bolton speaks to two listeners with opposing views on The Archers and we speak to Sam Wolfson about declining Radio 1 listener figures. Following the release of the latest RAJAR figures, which measures radio listening habits, Nick Grimshaw's Radio 1 breakfast show has seen the lowest reach since RAJAR records began. We speak to the network's target audience at a college in Warrington to find out how they are now listening to audio and Sam Wolfson, Executive Editor of VICE UK explains why those figures have dipped.And The Archers continues to attract new audiences with its dramatic twists and turns. But some listeners say the programme has gone too far. We hear from two Archers fans on opposing sides of the argument.Well, so, like, you know what I mean...? Sociolinguist Heike Pichler makes a return visit to Feedback to respond to listener comments on the various uses of 'so' and to explain the meaning behind some of Roger's most irritating verbal tics.And radio that changes lives. We hear from listener Nicola Watson about an episode of 'You and Yours' that gave her the confidence she needed to return to the workforce.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.

Nov 10, 201727 min

03/11/2017

Roger Bolton hears a range of listener views on the Today programme's 60th anniversary live edition. Did some of the presenters bray over gags about sexual harassment and assault? To kick off the new series of The Moral Maze, Radio 4 has been working in partnership with Dundee University to trial a new piece of technology that aims to help the listener become a more effective debater. Roger gives this innovation a try.Roger also goes behind the scenes at the Ken Bruce show to find out more about how he and his sidekick Lynn Bowles interact with their listeners. and speaks to the first - and now former - Radio 4 Poet in Residence Daljit Nagra to find out more about the role.And, erm, well, so... The verbal tics that drive you mad. Why do they pepper so much of a BBC radio broadcaster's natural speech? Socio-linguist Heike Pichler explains what's really going on.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Nov 3, 201727 min

27/10/2017

Roger Bolton with listener views on BBC radio.The World at One has courted controversy by dedicating a whole show to the topic of abortion, marking 50 years since the passage of the 1967 Abortion Act. Some listeners found the coverage upsetting, while others were annoyed that one subject had been allowed to take over what they see as, first and foremost, a news programme. But some listeners say they found the focus both timely and touching. Roger hears views from all sides.Neil MacGregor has a new 30-part series, Living with the Gods, following in the footsteps of his enormously popular previous programmes examining historical objects. But does the BBC spend too much time on religion? And is radio the right medium for a programme about objects you can't see? Neil addresses these questions and talks about his aims for the series.Last week, Radio 4 Commissioning Editor for Drama Jeremy Howe appeared on Feedback answering concerns over his decision to air unsettling horror The Omen as the Book at Bedtime. This week, listeners give their verdict on both The Omen and the book which came next, Philip Pullman's La Belle Sauvage.Finally, Feedback has been inviting listeners to share stories of how radio has changed their lives. This week, listener Lou Moore describes how a chance radio encounter with Desert Island Discs became a turning point in her life and career.Producer: Nicola Kelly A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 27, 201727 min

20/10/2017

Roger Bolton airs listener criticism of a Today programme interview with the director of Public Prosecutions Alison Saunders on sexual harassment.A record number of sex offenders have been brought to justice in England and Wales and convictions for both rape and other sexual offences have risen sharply. But despite topping the news agenda, some listeners were not happy with John Humphrys' tone and line of questioning. Also, Radio 4's Commissioning Editor of Drama and Fiction Jeremy Howe discusses his decision to run The Omen as last week's Book at Bedtime.Following regulatory changes, Roger talks to Sophie Chalk from Voice of the Listener and Viewer, a public service lobby group, about who now holds accountability for the BBC - its Board or Ofcom.And how did a particular programme or report change your life? Listener Ed Green tells us why Glyn Worsnip's A Lone Voice affected him. Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 20, 201727 min

13/10/2017

The Editor of PM defends his programme against listeners' accusations that presenter Eddie Mair's interview with Home Secretary Amber Rudd was hostile and biased. Roger Sawyer discusses the presenter's robust style of interviewing and sets out his editorial stance on the presentation of this and other items on the programme.When Amber Rudd sought to bring the focus of the interview back to the policy announcements made by the Prime Minister at the Party Conference, listeners expressed their frustration with Eddie Mair's questioning. We speak to those who suggest that the presenter didn't allow for an informed discussion of the Conservative Party's policies, but focused instead on the Prime Minister's misfortunes, most notably her well-documented cough. Roger Sawyer explains these editorial decisions and discusses the sanctioning of coverage such as the use of gunfire on the recent Las Vegas shooting item.And we hear from one listener dissatisfied with Winifred Robinson's latest programme on home education, 'Out of School, Out of Sight'. Fee Berry speaks to Roger Bolton about her view that the programme should have been more carefully balanced.Also, listeners discuss their reactions to Feedback's interview last week with the new Editor of the Today programme, Sarah Sands and we hear from those involved in the introduction of the BBC World Service's new Pidgin English programming.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 13, 201727 min

06/10/2017

The new Editor of Today defends her programme against listeners' accusations that coverage is no longer focused on the news. Sarah Sands addresses concerns that 'softer' features have taken priority, discusses the future of the presenting team and sets out her vision for the future of Today. When the programme ran several items on Fashion Week, a long interview with actress Judi Dench and on-location reporting from Silicon Valley on the launch of a new Apple smartphone, listeners wrote in to express their dissatisfaction with the coverage. Many stated that the emphasis for Today should be on news rather than features, with more analysis from BBC correspondents. Sarah Sands explains why this coverage was of relevance to the Today audience and discusses her plans to attract new audiences.Also, we hear mixed reviews from listeners in response to the five-part series, 'Whodunnit: The Calendar Conspiracy'' examining the theory that when you are born has a direct impact on educational and professional success.And the BBC responds to listeners' claims that there is a geographical bias in coverage favouring natural disasters that occur in the United States rather than the developing world.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 6, 201727 min

18/08/2017

In the last programme of the current series, Roger Bolton digs in to controversy about climate change, hears listener response to the BBC's Gay Britannia season and discusses Jim Al-Khalili's broadcasting career.Well known climate sceptic and former Chancellor Lord Nigel Lawson was invited onto Radio 4's Today programme to discuss the economics of climate change recently, following up an earlier interview with climate campaigner Al Gore. But Lord Lawson also took the opportunity to question some of the established science of climate change. The controversy quickly filled up the Feedback inbox - many were deeply angry that a non-scientist had been brought on to discuss the topic and complained that Today's Justin Webb had not done enough to challenge his position. Professor Steve Jones, who wrote an independent report on impartiality and accuracy in science broadcasting for the BBC in 2011, joins Roger to discuss the interview.To commemorate 50 years since the passing of the Sexual Offences act, the BBC has been running an extensive season of programmes under the umbrella Gay Britannia. Listeners respond to the series. Was it diverse enough in its portrayal of LGBT people? Was there too much of it altogether? And some people take issue with the BBC's use of the word "queer".Producer: Kate Taylor A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Aug 18, 201728 min

Science Special

Roger Bolton presents a special edition of the programme, exploring science on the radio. Are BBC science programmes just "jocular froth"? That's the view of one listener, who speaks for many as he puts his point directly to Deborah Cohen, the Editor of Science Radio.Jim Al-Khalili, presenter of The Life Scientific, discusses the scientific consensus around man-made climate change and how that should affect the way the BBC covers the issue.Tom Feilden, Science and Environment Editor of the Today programme, explores the psychology of the news agenda and the reporting of controversial topics such as homeopathy.Comic Robin Ince, who presents The Infinite Monkey Cage, discusses the blending of science with comedy. And Chris Sizemore, the Commissioning Editor for the digital side of the Tomorrow's World season reveals an early preview of a brand new science podcast.This special edition of Feedback was recorded at the end of July.Produced by Kate Taylor A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Aug 11, 201727 min

04/08/2017

Roger Bolton asks if Radio 5 Live was right to interview a controversial columnist, discusses BBC plans to reinvent audio, and finds out how to relax a Prom.Kevin Myers was the subject of enormous public backlash after he published a column in the Irish edition of the Sunday Times that many saw as anti-semitic. So should Radio 5 Live have invited him onto Emma Barnett's 5 Live daily for an interview? He apologised, and tried to explain his position, but Feedback listeners are split on whether the interview was well judged and sufficiently robust.Radio 4's Partition Voices coincides with the 70th anniversary of the partition of India, bringing the history to life with often heartbreaking stories from people who experienced it first hand and are now in the UK. The presenter, Kavita Puri, discusses why these stories are only now being heard.In the annual plan published a few weeks ago, the BBC unveiled ambitious plans to "reinvent and grow audio". But with impressive audience figures released on Thursday, radio seems to be so far so good - so what changes are on the horizon? And what does "reinventing audio" actually mean? Roger finds out by speaking with Andrew Caspari, the BBC's acting controller of Radio and Music, Multiplatform.Finally, this year's Proms have brought a very different kind of performance to the Royal Albert Hall - the first ever "relaxed prom", designed for children and adults with autism, sensory and communication impairments and learning disabilities. Feedback finds out more about the creation of this unique event - and what the audience made of the experience.A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Aug 4, 201727 min

28/07/2017

Roger Bolton looks at the BBC's coverage of Donald Trump, the Dead Ringers team reveal what spurred them on in their latest popular series, and listeners react to the news that Saturday Review has been granted a late reprieve.At a press conference shortly after his inauguration, Donald Trump referred to the BBC's Jon Sopel as "Another beauty". On this week's Feedback, the beauty himself joins Roger to consider listener response to his coverage, how the BBC tries to remain impartial in the face of an unusual presidency and whether the BBC is giving either too much or too little credence to the ongoing allegations of collusion between Donald Trump's campaign and Russia.Many listeners have contacted Feedback to say how much they've enjoyed the latest series of Dead Ringers. So how do they do it? Jan Ravens, Jon Culshaw and Lewis Macleod discuss why breakneck news can make for blistering satire.In April, Radio 4 announced the cancellation of long running arts staple Saturday Review. Feedback listeners were furious - and made their views clear in no uncertain terms. This week, Radio 4 controller Gwyneth Williams announced an abrupt - but possibly temporary - reversal of the decision. Saturday Review enthusiasts respond to the news.Patricia Greene has been on The Archers since the 1950s, playing the much loved Jill Archer. So when the now 86 year old actress was played a clip of herself as Jill from 1959 during an interview on Woman's Hour she barely recognised her own voice. Listeners react to a special radio moment. Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jul 28, 201727 min

21/07/2017

As parliament starts the summer recess, the BBC's assistant political editor Norman Smith looks back at a tumultuous few months in Westminster, talking with Roger Bolton about the challenges of working under intense scrutiny and accusations of bias from MPs and on social media.This week, the BBC released its annual report, including the names and wage brackets of 96 of its on-air talent who are all paid over 150 thousand pounds a year. Licence fee payers give us their thoughts on presenter pay.In last week's programme, we discussed listener complaints about an exceptionally graphic story in Bridget Kendall's Cold War: Stories from the Big Freeze. To make sense of the discussion, Feedback chose to re-broadcast the clip. Were we right to do so? Listeners share their differing views on the issue. Finally, Roger continues his series of Open Mic interviews with prominent BBC presenters. This week, he's joined by Clive Anderson of Loose Ends and Unreliable Evidence. Has Clive's notoriously sharp-edged humour mellowed over time? Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC radio 4.

Jul 21, 201727 min

14/07/2017

Roger Bolton investigates audience responses to BBC radio programmes.A number of listeners were shocked to hear description of an act of torture and murder on Radio 4's lunchtime series Cold War: Stories from the Big Freeze and considered it overly graphic for the time of day. Should listeners have been given more warning about the unsettling nature of the story? And was the station right to broadcast it at all? Producer Phil Tinline and Radio 4's Editorial Standards Editor Roger Mahony answer listener complaints.And, has radio become just a bit too fast? Radio 3 is spearheading a trend towards "Slow Radio", which uses ambient sounds and unusually long programmes to provide listeners with a relaxing antidote to rolling news and action packed documentaries. Feedback reporter Rebecca Pearce explores how this trend originated in Norway and is now migrating onto BBC Radio. She speaks to Norwegian Slow TV pioneer Thomas Hellum and to Horatio Clare, the presenter of Radio 3's recent Sound Walk.Also, Music to Strip To gave the Radio 4 audience a quick blast of burlesque culture, catching the imagination of one listener in particular. He interviews the producer, Steve Urquhart.Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jul 14, 201727 min

07/07/2017

In the past two weeks, former party leaders Iain Duncan Smith and Ed Miliband have been taking turns replacing Jeremy Vine on his Radio 2 show. But why did they say yes to this risky venture? And what did they learn from spending time on the other side of the microphone? Ed and Iain join Roger Bolton to look back at their time on air.The BBC has, for the first time, published an annual plan that lays out its commitments for the year ahead. But what does it mean for BBC radio listeners? Colin Browne, Chairman of the Voice of the Listener and Viewer, discusses the strategy and shares some concerns about the BBC's approach to accountability and transparency.Only Artists has replaced Midweek in the schedule. But many of Midweek's fans are disappointed that the new series chose to leave Libby Purves' sharp interviewing behind. Meanwhile, other listeners love how the new programme gives artists more time and space to explore their work. Only Listeners debate the change.Finally, BBC Radio 4 is in the middle of a season of dark and disturbing Dangerous Visions, dramas and readings that present an alternative vision of the future. The man behind it, BBC Radio 4's commissioning editor for Drama and Fiction Jeremy Howe, sits down with Roger to discuss the appeal of dystopia, the place of Kafka in a slate of science fiction and where the season will go next.Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jul 7, 201727 min

30/06/2017

As Middle East editor, Jeremy Bowen has one of the BBC's most difficult, and often dangerous, jobs. He sits down with Feedback's Roger Bolton to reflect on his career and his Radio 4 series, Our Man in the Middle East. Last week, Ed Miliband impressed listeners with an assured week sitting in for Jeremy Vine. This week it's been the turn of former conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith. Feedback listeners pass judgment on how he measures up to his predecessor in the Radio 2 hotseat.Over the last month, Feedback has been inundated with comments taking issue with how the BBC has covered recent major incidents and terror attacks. The BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, David Jordan, responds to listeners' questions and explains the BBC's guidelines for dealing with tragic and complex events.Finally, listeners share their thoughts on Radio 4's Dangerous Visions, a season of dark, disturbing and dystopic drama and readings. Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jun 30, 201727 min

23/06/2017

Ed Miliband has spent the week in an unfamiliar position; sitting in for Jeremy Vine on Radio 2. Iain Duncan Smith, the former conservative leader, has his turn next week. So far, most listeners are loving the experiment. Roger Bolton sits down with programme editor Phil Jones to get his take on how his new presenter has performed, and to ask why Radio 2 felt using politicians instead of more experienced broadcasters was worth the risk.Last week, Andrew Scott came on to explain why the BBC felt it necessary to make signing in to the iPlayer website compulsory. But many listeners remain unconvinced. Sue Lawley has presented the Reith lectures for 16 years. She speaks to Roger about what makes a great Reith lecture, why she willingly left a dream job fronting Desert Island Discs and reveals the Reith lecturer who ran out of material with 10 minutes left to fill. Also, listeners weigh in on whether the BBC should be more careful with its use of language when reporting major incidents; and is Radio 4's Only Artists up to the challenge of replacing the much missed Midweek.

Jun 23, 201727 min

16/06/2017

Roger Bolton explores whether recent major incident coverage has been too graphic and intrusive and why the BBC is making signing in to iPlayer Radio compulsory, and also goes behind the scenes at Dame Hilary Mantel's Reith lectures.In the light of major terror attacks in London and Manchester, followed by the tragic fire in West London, listeners give their reactions to the BBC's coverage. Did the reporting veer too often towards sensationalism or was it upsetting but essential? Roger chairs a listener discussion on when it's appropriate for BBC Radio to seek out and broadcast first hand accounts of those caught up in traumatic events.The BBC has been phasing in compulsory sign in for iPlayer Radio - and many listeners are very unhappy, claiming it's inconvenient and unnecessary. Roger takes their concerns to myBBC launch director Andrew Scott.And the Reith Lectures are one of BBC Radio's great institutions. They've been running since 1948 and have changed little since. Roger heads to Stratford upon Avon to go behind the scenes at a recording for this year's lectures and talks to Dame Hilary Mantel and Sue Lawley about the the format's lasting appeal. Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jun 16, 201727 min

09/06/2017

On the morning after the night before, Roger Bolton talks to the BBC's Head of Newsgathering, Jonathan Munro, about the corporation's election coverage, responding to audience complaints about bias and over-aggressive interviewers.Also, listener Marcia Hughes gets to the heart of Radio 4's Soul Music with producer Maggie Ayre.And audio addict Anthony Frost explains why his all-consuming passion for radio means he finds it difficult to find time to talk to his wife.Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jun 9, 201727 min

Balancing Brexit, Libby Purves, A youthful Moral Maze

Now Article 50 has been triggered, Roger Bolton speaks to BBC News Editor James Stephenson about whether the BBC can move on from broadly balancing remain and leave sentiment in its discussion of the Brexit process. With Radio 4's Midweek programme at an end after 35 years, presenter Libby Purves is Roger Bolton's latest guest for our Open Mic interviews about the careers of some of your favourite radio broadcasters. Also, can young panellists teach old hands some new tricks on Moral Maze? Listeners praise The thoughtful sixth formers who took over from the regular panel in the latest edition are praised by the audience for listening closely and politely challenging witnesses - and each other.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Katherine Godfrey A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Apr 7, 201730 min

Westminster coverage, the end of Midweek and the editor of The Archers

Roger Bolton puts listener questions about coverage of the Westminster attack by Khalid Masood, to the Deputy Editor of BBC News, Toby Castle. And Roger reports from the Nations and Regions Media Conference in Salford on the important BBC radio headlines from the event. While there, he talks with the Editor of The Archers, Huw Kennair-Jones. Huw answers listener questions on all manner of subjects from sex and fruity language, to whether he wants to run another Helen and Rob-style hard-hitting subject in the near future. Also this week, some listeners wonder whether the BBC has been too cowed by criticism from MPs to report sufficiently impartially on the recent Unite for Europe march. And there's a fond farewell to BBC Radio 4's Midweek programme after 35 years.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Katherine Godfrey. A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Mar 31, 201730 min

Westminster attack

Roger Bolton hears listeners' responses to BBC Radio's coverage of the Westminster attack. Also, following a letter from more than 70 - mainly Conservative - MPs to the BBC which called the Corporation's coverage of Brexit pessimistic and skewed, BBC Economics Editor Kamal Ahmed discusses his role in uncertain economic times.This week, a documentary took listeners inside a hospital in northern Israel for 24 hours. Tim Samuels' Sleepover: Inside the Israeli Hospital followed doctors at Ziv hospital treating patients who had crossed over the border from Syria. Many listeners said it shone a light on a little-known story, while a few others raised concerns about what they saw as a lack of political context in the programme. Roger speaks to Tim Samuels.And Feedback reporter Rob Crossan is in Gateshead for an on-location recording of BBC Radio 3's long-running Jazz Record Requests programme from the Sage, as part of the network's Free Thinking Festival. Rob speaks to presenter Alyn Shipton about just how particular listeners are when it comes to specific versions of records and asks the audience whether it makes a difference to see as well as hear the programme.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Katherine Godfrey. A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Mar 24, 201727 min

Is it time to re-think the Official Chart show?

Radio 4's forum for audience comment.

Mar 17, 201727 min

Keeping it impartial

This week a storm of controversy has surrounded Woman's Hour presenter Jenni Murray. Many listeners feel a newspaper article she wrote breached the BBC's guidelines on impartiality and compromised her presenter role. Others supported her right to free speech. We hear from listeners on both sides of the argument.John Humphrys has also attracted criticism. During a Today programme interview he suggested that referring to MP Jo Cox's murder as an act of terrorism could "muddy the waters". Listeners say he "muddied the waters" himself and was inaccurate. They share their views on his remarks.On Wednesday, Philip Hammond got to his feet to deliver his first Budget. TV and radio teams braved the rain and mud, crowding onto College Green to cover the story. We follow Emma Barnett and the 5 Live Daily team to find out the secrets of broadcasting the budget from a flimsy tent in the pouring rain.And finally, Val McDermid has been pondering the horrifying prospects of a world where antibiotics no longer work. Her drama Resistance was inspired by a two-day Experimental Stories workshop hosted by the Wellcome Trust and Radio 4, where radio producers and writers met scientific researchers to develop dramas. Starring Gina McKee, listeners loved the dram's dystopian vision. Val McDermid talks about why she chose a music festival as the setting for her unnerving story.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Katherine Godfrey A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Mar 10, 201727 min

Dramatising real-life disasters

Roger Bolton hears listener concerns about satirising Donald Trump in a news programme, and considers how far writers can go when dramatising real disasters. Every Friday on the World at One, reporter Jonny Dymond has been documenting the movements of Trump's first 100 days in office with a wry twist. While some listeners have enjoyed the touch of humour, others have said it's out of place in what they say should be an objective news programme. Roger chairs a discussion between two listeners with opposing opinions.On 6th March 1987, the Herald of Free Enterprise ferry left its dock on a journey from Belgium to Dover. The ferry capsized within the first half hour of the journey, leading to the loss of 193 lives. Thirty years on, Radio 4 has aired a dramatic re-telling of the story in Herald of Disaster. For many, it was intensely gripping and emotionally captivating. Writer Stephen Phelps explains why he felt the event deserved new exploration, and he discusses his technique of weaving fictional characters around factual accounts.Also, the BBC World Service says it's undergoing its biggest expansion since the 1940s. Jamie Angus, the former Editor of Today and now Deputy Director of the BBC World Service Group, answers listeners' questions on how the network will ensure its reputation as a reliable broadcaster in the era of fake news and about the expansion of language services into new territories.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Katherine GodfreyA Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Mar 3, 201727 min

Radio 2 Schedule Changes

Listeners have been voicing their concerns about a significant shake-up to Radio 2's schedule including time changes, the moving of beloved presenters and an apparent lack of diversity. As the new schedule comes into effect this weekend, Head of BBC Radio 2 Lewis Carnie answers a range of audience questions - from his side of the Brian Matthew story, to ensuring Radio 2 will fill the space left by Desmond Carrington with a similarly eclectic sound.Earlier this month, the new editor of The Archers gave his verdict on the future of Rob Titchener - he's "gone, but not dead" said Huw Kennair-Jones. Rob, who exerted coercive control on his partner, Helen for four years, has fled to America. But the actor who plays him, Timothy Watson, is in the Feedback studio to give listeners an understanding of this devious and manipulative mind - and whether he would ever return.It's not only the hard-hitting, emotive storylines that keep Archers fans hooked. Feedback reporter Rebecca Pearce went behind the scenes of this year's Academic Archers conference - where academics and life-long fans gather to discuss everything from serious panels on Helen's life in prison to flower and producer shows.And listeners pay tribute to broadcaster Steve Hewlett.Presented by Roger Bolton Produced by Katherine Godfrey A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Feb 24, 201730 min

Time to re-think Russia?

Roger Bolton asks if journalists are stuck in cold war thinking about Russia, and discovers if Radio 4's interactive drama Hashtag Love was truly interactive. Following National Security Advisor Michael Flynn's resignation this week and stories of alleged Russian involvement in the US elections, some listeners have suggested that reporting about Russia follows only one narrative line - presenting the country as enemy of the West. So are journalists sticking to a one-sided portrayal that sounds like cold war fear? Radio 4's documentary "The Pull of Putin aimed to present a broader range of perspectives from pro-Moscow voices, and many listeners found it to be expertly balanced and a refreshing insight. Presenter and producer Tim Whewell discusses whether western media needs to re-frame the relationship with Russia.Meanwhile, some listeners say that one candidate in the French Presidential elections is dominating coverage - Marine Le Pen of France's National Front party. Is the BBC being influenced by controversial statements from populist parties? BBC Radio Newsroom editor Richard Clark responds.And how often have you listened to radio drama and wanted to influence the characters' decisions? Radio 4 attempted to give listeners that opportunity with Hashtag Love. The interactive drama was staged live, incorporating reactions from social media and allowing the audience to influence the ending. Writer Peter Souter explains how he conducted the twists and turns of this live drama.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Katherine Godfrey A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Feb 17, 201727 min

Melvyn Bragg, Feisty Moral Maze, Brexit agriculture

Roger Bolton hears the comments and concerns of listeners on the past week's radio broadcasting and raises their issues with those involved in making the programmes.As In Our Time prepares to celebrate its 750th episode, Roger Bolton talks to the programme's presenter Melvyn Bragg, who reveals how he ramps up the pressure to achieve the best live programme and talks about the programmes that have transformed his thinking.Long-standing BBC Correspondent Hugh Sykes considers the importance of accurate language, responding to listeners' critiques of one of his recent reports regarding President Trump's executive order banning immigration for people from seven, predominantly Muslim, countries.Charlotte Smith speaks to Feedback about her Radio 4 series Against the Grain, which considered the implications for British agriculture of leaving the European Union. The series has been praised by both listeners and farmers. But some ask if it would have been better to broadcast such a series before the EU Referendum?Also, listeners respond to heated outbursts about President Trump in an edition of The Moral Maze about the Morality of International Trade. Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Katherine Godfrey A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Feb 10, 201730 min

New Editor of Today

Roger Bolton asks if interviews with President Trump supporters require more care - or even censorship. And listeners give their reaction to the announcement of a new Today programme editor. Earlier this week, the Today programme interviewed Frank Gaffney. Introduced as a former government official, Gaffney was invited to discuss his support for Donald Trump's ban on immigration from seven predominantly Muslim countries. But some listeners thought his so-called controversial political stance and alleged conspiracy theories should have been made clearer, while others believed his alleged anti-Muslim views should have prevented him from appearing at all. Roger invites two Feedback listeners to discuss their views.The task of dealing with such issues in the future has fallen into new hands - London Evening Standard editor Sarah Sands has been announced as the new editor of the Today programme. Listeners give their initial thoughts on the appointment - with some raising eyebrows over her lack of broadcast experience.At this week's BBC Audio Drama Awards, James Fritz took home trophies for Best New Writer and Best Drama Script - the first time a writer has won both awards in the same year. His award winning drama was Comment is Free, which tackles the spiral of abuse on social media. James discusses how recent political events, including the tragic murder of Jo Cox, took the drama out of his imagination and aligned it with real fears.The Welsh Assembly believes more should be done to reflect Welsh life in broadcasting. One station charged with doing just that is BBC Radio Cymru - which recently celebrated its 40th birthday. Reporter Llinos Jones goes behind the scenes to hear how the stations is meeting its audience's needs.Producer: Katherine Godfrey Presenter: Roger BoltonA Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Feb 3, 201729 min

27/01/2017

Roger Bolton hears from listeners who claim the BBC may be out of step with popular opinion, and staffed by people from privileged middle-class backgrounds. Following Radio 4's recent series The New World, Commissioning Editor Mohit Bakaya and one of the presenters, Jo Fidgen meet some of those listeners to discuss their thoughts about the series and its ideological starting points.GF Newman's The Corrupted has just finished its third series of ten episodes, broadcast across two weeks. It's a gritty saga of crime and corruption among police and the corridors of power through the decades - most recently, the 1970s. It was loved by many, including Feedback listener David Dent - although he had some questions about the combination of real-life and fictional characters. He and Roger discuss walking the dramatic line with producer Clive Brill.Radio 2's live night-time programme After Midnight ends this weekend much to the disappointment of many listeners. Will that be to Radio 5Live's gain? Reporter Rob Crossan meets Dotun Adebayo and Rhod Sharp, the presenters of 5 Live's overnight show, Up All Night. Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Karen Pirie A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jan 27, 201729 min

20/01/2017

Roger Bolton follows up the issues that are concerning listeners and asks if the BBC Reality Check team can combat the spread of 'fake news'.With audiences across the world getting caught out by viral stories, and dodgy statistics and shocking facts beginning to have a direct impact on politics, the BBC is responding with concrete efforts to tackle the growing phenomena of 'fake news'. The corporation has established a permanent statistic verification team called Reality Check. From the central newsroom of the BBC, News Editor James Stephenson details the inner workings of this group and what he hopes they will achieve, and discusses how much attention the BBC should give to stories based on 'fake news'. Ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration as President of the USA, Michael Gove was invited onto Radio 4's Today Programme to discuss his exclusive interview with the President Elect. But some listeners were left scratching their heads over the heavyweight 8:10am slot being given to a backbencher - and the lengthy time he was allocated. Listeners have also been expressing their dismay at the news that Radio 2 are axing live overnight presenters Alex Lester and Janice Long from the After Midnight show - to be replaced with repeats and pre-recorded playlists. Roger Bolton asks Lewis Carnie, the relatively new head of BBC Radio 2, to justify the cutbacks. And can music be the flame to ignite radio drama? Listeners give their poignant and personal reflections to recent Radio 4 drama On Kosovo Field, which was inspired by and written from previously unreleased music by PJ Harvey. Writer Fin Kennedy explains how he translated emotive lyrics into dramatic narratives. Producer: Karen Pirie A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jan 20, 201729 min

28/10/2016

Roger Bolton investigates the demise of Detective James McLevy, protagonist of the much-loved and long-running Radio 4 drama.Also, many listeners want to know why the former Cabinet minister Michael Gove got so much airtime this week, with lengthy interviews on the World at One and a 15 minute special on The Pursuit of Power.The programme goes behind the scenes at a recording of The Kitchen Cabinet, talking to panellists, audience members and the programme's presenter Jay Rayner.Everything We've Ever Known is a series of short comic histories of science presented by Jake Yapp. They are currently on the Radio 4 website but, for the first time, have no connection with any Radio 4 programme. Roger Bolton discusses this development with the creators.A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 28, 201628 min

21/10/2016

The editor of Today defends his programme against audience accusations of sexism in its coverage of Donald Trump's obscene comments, and a listener goes behind the scenes at Radio 5Live.When the Today programme ran an item on so-called "locker-room banter" following Donald Trump's comments about women, it prompted an angry reaction from the guest who had been invited to discuss the story on air. Laura Bates from Everyday Sexism accused the programme of a serious error of judgement in conflating two very different issues. Today's editor, Jamie Angus, tells Roger Bolton why he thinks he was right to run the item.Also, listener Tony Baker goes behind the scenes at BBC Radio 5Live Drive as they cover the victory parade of Britain's successful Olympians and Paralympian teams. The BBC's Head of Newsgathering, Jonathan Munro, explains why budget cuts means fewer presenters being jetted off to foreign climes to cover international stories.And Fi Glover, the presenter of Radio 4's The Listening Project, talks about the decision to devote a week of programmes to Brexit.Presenter: Roger Bolton Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 21, 201629 min

14/10/2016

With the US presidential elections less than 3 weeks away the BBC's North America Editor, Jon Sopel talks to Roger about the challenges of covering a campaign dominated by personalities rather than policies. He responds to listeners' suggestions that the BBC has been too focused on Donald Trump and too soft on Hillary Clinton. The Radio 4 documentary Body Count Rising argued that modern fiction is increasingly portraying violence against women in a voyeuristic way. Listeners were divided over the arguments. The programme's producer Gemma Newby answers her critics. And after a bumper summer of sport, the Controller of Radio 5Live Jonathan Wall defends his network against the accusation that its news brief is being swamped by too much sport.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 14, 201629 min

07/10/2016

Roger Bolton hears listener views on BBC radio programmes and developments.From next year, users will need to login and give their postcode to access BBC iPlayer, iPlayer Radio and some mobile apps. The BBC says the move will enable it to offer a more personalised service - tailoring content to individual preferences. Some Feedback listeners and concerned the information gleaned will be used to crack down on the non-payment of the licence fee. The BBC's Director of Homepage and myBBC, Phil Fearnley, explains the Corporation's thinking.We find out more about binaural Beckett. Radio 3's Head of Speech Programming, Matthew Dodd, talks to Roger about why he commissioned new productions of five plays Samuel Beckett wrote especially for the Third Programme and how they were recorded binaurally - with voices and sounds in 360 degrees, coming not just from left and right but also from behind and in front of the listener.The Daily Telegraph's radio critic, Gillian Reynolds, gives her thoughts on the appointment of James Purnell as the head of a new BBC division - Radio and Education.And the Radio 4 Documentary A Casual Clearance explored the practical and emotional difficulties involved in clearing out a parent's house when they have died. It struck a chord with a number of listeners. Producer Clare Jenkins explains why and how she made the programme.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 7, 201629 min

30/09/2016

Roger Bolton discusses audience views on BBC radio programmes.The news coming out of Aleppo in Syria becomes more horrific each day but, while the human suffering of civilians caught up in the conflict is undeniable, hard facts about what's happening on the ground are very difficult to come by. As in everything else, the BBC's duty is to remain duly impartial in its reporting. But some listeners believe the BBC has been less than even-handed in its coverage of recent events.Can the BBC ever be truly neutral in reporting wars? Roger discusses the issue with Dr Peter Busch, Senior Lecturer in War Studies at King's College London, and the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards, David Jordan.And is the BBC guilty of pushing stories about its own programmes at the expense of more newsworthy items? Some listeners say they think coverage of The Archers trial and The Great British Bake Off in recent weeks has blurred the line between real news and self-promotion.Finally - making Tracks. The last episode of Radio 4's nine-part drama goes out on Tuesday 4th October, and one of its producers, James Robinson, gives Roger the inside track on how the programme was conceived and made.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 4, 201629 min

23/09/2016

Roger Bolton with views from the audience on BBCX radio programmes and issues.Sir David Attenborough's two part documentary series for Radio 4, The Waterside Ape, delved into the developments on the aquatic ape theory - the idea that our human ancestors evolved not on the wide savannahs of Africa, but alongside water. It's a contentious idea and some scientists have claimed it played fast and loose with the evidence and promoted a minority thesis unnecessarily. Roger hears the views of listeners.The Controller of Radio 1, Ben Cooper, wants to make his network the "Netflix of Music Radio". To do that he's putting in place what he calls a phone-first strategy - 25 hours a week of content will be made available for people to download onto their smartphones and listen to whenever they want. He tells Roger why he thinks all BBC stations will eventually have to follow suit.And how good are BBC journalists at explaining which statistics are reliable? The BBC Trust recently conducted a review of the impartiality of the BBC's reporting of statistics in its news and current affairs output. The verdict, according to one of the authors of the report, Paul Johnson from the Institute of Fiscal Studies, is that the BBC is doing a "pretty good job" but there are two to three areas of concern.And listeners give their reaction to last week's interview with Katy Searle, the BBC's Editor of Political News, about perceived bias in the Beeb's coverage of Jeremy Corbyn.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Oct 4, 201628 min

16/09/2016

Roger Bolton asks if BBC coverage has been biased against Jeremy Corbyn, putting listener concerns to Political News Editor Katy Searle. Have radio programmes looked too much at Jeremy Corbyn's personality at the expense of his policies?In the week that the Chair of the BBC Trust handed in her resignation, the draft BBC Royal charter was released. Chairman of the Voice of the Listener and Viewer Colin Browne talks to Roger Bolton about the Charter and its repercussions. Will it safeguard the independence of the Corporation?In 1986 a specialist music programme took to the air on Radio Ulster. The Bottom Line - or Across the Line as it's now known - celebrated its 30th birthday earlier this month with a live concert featuring performances from some of the bands it helped to launch. How has the programme outlived so many of its rivals?And a week on from the biggest trial in the history of Ambridge, we hear why some listeners of The Archers were left dissatisfied, while others were delighted with the outcome.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Sep 16, 201628 min

09/09/2016

It's the first of a new series, and one of the big stories over the summer was the Olympic Games in Rio. But are Radio 4 news bulletins the place for sports coverage - and did the BBC go too far in championing Team GB? Feedback listeners have their say, and Roger Bolton puts their thoughts to Editor of Radio 4's Six O'clock News, Dominic Ball.The long-awaited trial of Helen for attempted murder has had many glued to The Archers this week, and the fictional village of Ambridge has featured in real life news headlines across the world. With the storyline of Rob's coercive control reaching a climax, it's both gripped and repelled listeners. We hear from two avid fans on either side of the fence.And, as recording for the new series of Ramblings gets underway, we couldn't miss the opportunity to take a walk in the countryside with presenter Clare Balding. She's traipsed the British Isles for 17 years with producer Lucy Lunt, and Roger discovers why the simple act of walking in the fresh air with incredible scenery elicits such openness from their guests.Producer: Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Sep 9, 201628 min

Impartiality

Roger Bolton hears the questions and concerns of BBC radio listeners.This series, one issue has been top of the Feedback agenda - impartiality. The surge in questions and comments from listeners was initially sparked by the EU Referendum coverage, with concerns that striving for impartiality meant the BBC did not sufficiently scrutinise the campaigns and determine which conflicting claims were right. Listeners have also been highlighting other areas where they question whether the BBC has not met its standards of impartiality - namely science and the arts. David Jordan, the BBC's Director of Editorial Policy and Standards responds to the concerns.How does dancing on the radio work? That's a question Radio 3 tackled in their recent broadcast of the Strictly Come Dancing Prom. This year's host Katie Derham takes listeners on a behind-the-scenes tour of the rehearsal for a closer look at how the popular TV hit has been adapted for radio.And find out why listeners were stopped in their tracks by the Radio 4 Drama Life Lines, which explores the challenging and often distressing world of work as an ambulance call handler.Produced by Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jul 22, 201628 min

15/07/2016

Is it right to refer to a politician using just their first name? It's a question posed by some Feedback listeners after reporters referred to the new Foreign Secretary as simply "Boris". They are asking why he appears to be an exception to the rule and, more pertinently, if this note of familiarity softens the tone of interviews.And are this year's Proms getting a shake-up? Having celebrated its 120th anniversary last year, the Proms have been given a new Director - David Pickard. As the 2016 season gets underway this weekend, what is his vision for the Proms? The Director speaks to Roger Bolton from the Royal Albert Hall, discussing the use of unexpected locations, whether this year will be less London-centric and how much is on offer for younger listeners.Last week Feedback considered how the continued turmoil of Brexit was affecting comedy output - this week it's a look at the business unit. As the markets and the pound have been rocked by the out vote, listener Ian Callaghan goes behind-the-scenes of the BBC's Business and Economics unit to discover how they're responding.Did you keep a diary during your teenage years? If so, would you be willing to share your adolescent highs and lows with a listening audience? That's exactly what Radio 4 comedy My Teenage Diary asks of its celebrity guests. But some listeners question the authenticity of the diaries, asking how likely it was that they were both preserved and contain fitting punchlines for a radio comedy. The producer, Harriet Jaine, and one of the guest on the latest series, Samira Ahmed, discuss how the programme is put together.Produced by Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jul 15, 201628 min

08/07/2016

The unpredictable and fast-moving political landscape post-Brexit continues to dominate the headlines and listeners remain divided over whether the BBC's coverage has been as "duly impartial" as its Charter requires.The "political earthquake" caused by last month's vote has presented special challenges to BBC Radio News - not just in terms of balance but also because of the sheer speed with which the tectonic plates have shifted. And when Boris Johnson announced he wasn't running for the tory leadership it wasn't just the lunchtime bulletins which had to be re-written - it presented a considerable headache to the writers and performers of Radio 4's Deadringers, who were recording their programme just a few hours later.We went along to see how they would cope.Series producer Bill Dare talks us through some of the hairier moments of the last two weeks and Jon Culshaw and Jan Ravens explain how they've speedily perfected their impersonations of Michael Gove and Theresa May. And is visualisation the future of radio? Roger Bolton chairs a panel with Joe Harland, the BBC's Head of Visual Radio; Rhian Roberts, the editor of digital for Radios 4, 3 and 4 Extra; and three listeners with very different views on the need to be able to watch radio. Producer: Will Yates A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jul 8, 201628 min

01/07/2016

Following the confirmation that the UK had voted to leave the European Union, BBC Radio 5Live cancelled their planned schedules and extended their phone-ins after being contacted by thousands of listeners. But some Feedback correspondents question whether the result merited the such comprehensive coverage and why some sports coverage was shelved. Other listeners have also queried the benefit of hearing "outlandish claims" being made by callers. Gill Farrington, 5Live's Breakfast programme editor answers these listeners' queries. Feedback listeners also have concerns with how Radio 4 has been reporting on Brexit. Many feel that the station has a post-referendum tone of "doom and gloom". And over the next two weeks, Feedback is exploring the pioneering world of visual radio. What's in the pipeline for your viewing? Is it taking resources away from other areas? What works best for each station's audience? It begins in 5Live where the Head of Digital Will Cooper details his plans.And it's not often that we have an inbox full of audience members admitting to having cried at the radio, but narrative series The Boy Who Gave His Heart Away moved many listeners. The story unfolded over five days telling of two families faced with losing their children. Cole Moreton, who wrote and presented the series, gives the inside story of how it was made.Producer: Karen Pirie A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jul 1, 201628 min

24/06/2016

The long-awaited decision day has finally arrived. Votes have been cast and campaigns have come to an end. But that hasn't halted your questions, comments and queries on how the BBC has reported on and covered the EU Referendum. In this special edition of Feedback, listeners put forward their views on whether BBC news as a whole has been an aid in your decision making.Throughout the campaign, the Feedback inbox has received numerous questions as listeners have flagged up the areas in which they feel the BBC could have reported the campaign season differently. How did impartiality affect the coverage? Was the news too focused on individual personalities? Have certain issues been missing from the BBC reports? These are just a handful of questions that have been put to the BBC's Chief Political Adviser, Ric Bailey.Amongst the points on the campaigns as a whole, listeners also share their views on how the tragic passing of MP Jo Cox has affected BBC output.Produced by Kate Dixon. A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.

Jun 24, 201628 min

17/06/2016

Radio 4's Today Programme on Monday morning focused largely on the shooting at a gay club in Orlando. Unfolding details were assessed by a variety of interviewees, but some listeners felt the discussions failed to explore questions around homophobia. They called for Radio 4 aficionado Luke Howard tells Roger Bolton why he felt particularly let down and calls for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender views to be discussed as much as topics on gun laws, terrorism and IS.The Queen's 90th birthday inspired a more traditional and simple service from Radio 4's Sunday Worship. The broadcast from the church in Sandringham evoked reactions of joy and delight from those listening - as they ask for services in this style to be aired more often. Series producer Philip Billson explains the decisions behind this and whether it's an approach the team will take again.And, while the latest series of award-winning comedy Fags, Mags and Bags has recently come to an end, listeners have been in touch throughout to declare it a unique, hilarious and addictive listen. Comedy writers Sanjeev Kohli and Donald McLeary respond to praise over the multi-ethnic cast - as well as to criticism over possible stereotypes and complicated language.Produced by Kate Dixon A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jun 18, 201628 min

10/06/2016

Roger Bolton explores listener reaction to BBC radio.The death of boxing legend Muhammad Ali blazed across BBC output in the last week - but did this coverage fail to portray the two sides of his character? Listeners questioned whether the reporting focused too heavily on his success and iconic image and neglected his more controversial moments. Controller of daily news programmes Gavin Allen explains how these decisions are made in the editorial process and what he feels the news programmes achieved.In the age of audiences having streaming websites and personal playlists at their fingertips, is there a place for music presenters to curate our listening? BBC 6 Music believe there is as it broadcasts its annual 6 Music Recommends Day. Reporter Rob Crossan goes behind the scenes with musicians and presenters to find out how they put together a 12 hour playlist of brand new music that will please a diverse set of listeners. He speaks to presenters Cerys Matthews, Steve Lamacq and Shaun Keaveny, as well as Head of Music Jeff Smith and Head of Programmes Paul Rogers.Roger Bolton also puts listener questions to BBC 6 Music Controller Bob Shennan, asking the station has evolved since its launch in 2002 and where it fits into the range of music radio stations.And in last week's Feedback, the BBC's assistant political editor Norman Smith explained how he feels the corporation's impartiality may affect reporting of the EU Referendum. It's a debate that many Feedback listeners felt compelled to join in.Produced by Kate Dixon. A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4.

Jun 10, 201628 min

03/06/2016

With one of the biggest national decisions inching closer, listeners give their verdict on the BBC's referendum coverage so far. Some feel that the network is giving more attention to one side of the campaign - particularly in its headline reporting - others are concerned that the BBC is only reflecting a limited set of views. Most pertinently, those following the coverage ask whether the corporation's impartiality restricts its reporters from digging out hard facts. Assistant political editor Norman Smith responds to these queries and discusses how he deals with this turbulent political story. Have you ever wondered about the class background of the BBC's producers, presenters and even on-air guests? Do you want a run-down of whether interviewees on Radio 4's Today programme are from a certain class hierarchy? These are the probing questions from certain Feedback listeners - some of whom wonder if this gives Radio 4 an overall middle-class tone. Katherine Godfrey, a Feedback producer, drills down into the BBC's statistics and asks what the corporation is doing to better reflect the class composition of Britain.On-going Radio 4 series Born in Bradford follows one of the biggest medical research projects in the UK. Beginning in 2007, the programmes investigate child development and how this might explain the causes of some diseases. In the latest edition presented by Winifred Robinson (You and Yours), emotional and difficult conversations with pregnant women moved many listeners.And fans of From Our Home Correspondent explain why this sister programme offers a unique quality to their radio listening.Produced by Karen Pirie. A Whistledown Production for BBC Radio 4.

Jun 3, 201628 min