Three Podcasts to Make Long Drives Fly By, From Undercover Agents to Drug Lord Investigations

As the summer holidays progress, long car journeys or quiet afternoons in the garden might call for engaging audio content. VRT NWS highlights three narrative podcasts designed to captivate listeners for hours.

The first recommendation, 'Alpha,' delves into the often-fascinating world of undercover agents. Six former agents share their personal stories, which are then brought to life by professional actors. The real agents direct these reenactments, offering a unique perspective on their challenging work. The podcast explores stories like that of Evi, one of the few female undercover officers infiltrating a left-wing activist group, and Gilbert, who had to drink heavily to befriend a serial killer. The series, produced by Autres Directions for NTR and NPO Luister, acknowledges the psychological toll such work can take.

For those interested in true crime, 'Cocaïnekoorts: de zaak Bressers' offers a deep dive into the criminal underworld. Crime journalists Mark Eeckhaut and Jan Meeus investigate the transformation of Flor Bressers, known as 'the tall one' or 'the academic,' into one of Belgium's most infamous drug lords. The podcast touches upon his lavish lifestyle, including a period spent on a luxury yacht in the Seychelles during the COVID-19 pandemic, and examines the intricate money flows within the country's criminal networks. It also analyzes how Bressers' trial evolved into a procedural battle, even involving a physical altercation.

While the article mentions a third podcast, 'Kwammie Rocket's Quarantaine Rad,' it provides no further details about its content, leaving listeners to discover it independently. The selection emphasizes compelling storytelling and investigative journalism, offering diverse narratives for various tastes.