
Americast
Americast is the authoritative US news and politics podcast from the BBC.
Each week we provide audiences with the best analysis from across the BBC, with on-the-ground observations and big picture insights about the stories which are defining America right now.
The podcast is hosted by trusted BBC journalists including the BBC’s North America editor, Sarah Smith, BBC Radio 4 presenter, Justin Webb, the BBC’s disinformation and social media correspondent, Marianna Spring, and BBC North America correspondent, Anthony Zurcher.
As well as political analysis, we also specialise in social media. Each week Marianna Spring brings listeners the latest updates from the BBC’s Undercover Voters, our award-winning investigation into the content that is recommended to US voters on social media.
The team is also joined by special guests each week, like CNN anchor, Christiane Amanpour, Emmy Award-winning TV host, Rachel Maddow, and Succession actress, J Smith-Cameron.
Podcasts are published every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. As well as being a podcast, we are also available every Friday on the World Service. Oh, and by the way, you can now listen to Americast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say ‘”Ask BBC Sounds to play Americast”. It works on most smart speakers.
Every Monday we answer your questions on Americanswers, with some help from special guests, including Miles Taylor, who was chief of staff at the Department for Homeland Security during the Trump presidency before becoming a whistleblower. Got a question or a comment? Get in touch with us on email at Americast@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Latest episodes

Jun 2, 2025 • 32min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! Who controls Donald Trump's Truth Social account?
The discussion kicks off with the intriguing dynamics of Donald Trump's Truth Social account—who really controls it? Next, the podcast dives into the fallout from Trump's funding cuts at Ivy League universities and the potential brain drain it could cause in the U.S. The analysis also touches on the ongoing evolution of online political behaviors and influences, particularly surrounding key figures like Elon Musk. Additionally, the hosts tackle the intersection of social media, legal battles, and the implications for future political landscapes.

16 snips
May 29, 2025 • 27min
Have Trump's tariff dreams been shattered?
A US court's decision blocking Trump's tariffs has sparked significant discussion about global trade dynamics. The reinstatement of these tariffs raises questions about Trump's public image and political future. The hosts analyze the tensions between judicial authority and presidential power as well as Wall Street's perceptions of leadership. They delve into the complex trade negotiations between the US and the EU, alongside Elon Musk's distancing from political influence, and the evolving role of social media in shaping political narratives.

9 snips
May 28, 2025 • 29min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! Is the Trump-Musk bromance now over?
Elon Musk expresses disappointment over Trump's tax bill, signaling a rift in their relationship. They discuss Trump's ongoing clash with Harvard and its implications for middle-class Americans. The exploration of Trump's communication style, particularly on Truth Social, raises questions about audience engagement. Meanwhile, the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party, highlighted by Mike Pence's diminished profile, add to the intrigue. The conversation ends on a humorous note, sharing anecdotes about presidential pets and inviting listeners to engage with their own animal stories.

May 22, 2025 • 38min
Why did Trump ambush the South African president?
Robyn Curnow, a former CNN Africa correspondent and host of the Searching for America podcast, lends her expertise to discuss the tense White House meeting between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Donald Trump. They delve into Trump's provocative claims about violence against white farmers and the impact of misinformation on U.S.-South Africa relations. Curnow also sheds light on the complexities of immigration policies and racial narratives, revealing how these elements influence political strategies and perceptions in both nations.

May 21, 2025 • 28min
How will Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' change America?
Donald Trump's massive legislation aims to reshape taxation, Medicaid, and national defense, but faces pushback from within the Republican Party. The hosts dissect the implications of proposed Medicaid cuts, highlighting their impact on families and vulnerable groups. They analyze the strategic bundling of policies to gain bipartisan support and the political complexities surrounding Trump’s agenda. Additionally, they touch on the influence of AI in governance and the Republican dynamics as the 2024 election looms.

12 snips
May 19, 2025 • 37min
Americanswers! Why is Biden’s cancer diagnosis prompting new questions?
The podcast dives into the aftermath of Joe Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis and the political fallout, highlighting calls for transparency from leaders like Vice President JD Vance. Conspiracy theories swirl around whether Biden concealed his health issues while in office, affecting future Democratic candidates. The conversation takes a humorous turn with James Comey's controversial social media post, which sparked outrage and an investigation. The team also shares quirky American phrases, blending serious discussions with light-hearted anecdotes.

49 snips
May 18, 2025 • 24min
We speak to CNN's Jake Tapper on the “cover-up” behind Joe Biden’s decline
Jake Tapper, CNN anchor and co-author of the revealing book, discusses the cover-up surrounding Joe Biden's physical and mental decline. He shares alarming anecdotes, such as Biden struggling to recognize George Clooney at a fundraiser. Tapper questions the media's role in downplaying issues about Biden's health. He delves into the emotional silence surrounding these concerns, exploring the societal pressures that discourage open dialogue. This thought-provoking conversation raises crucial questions about leadership and transparency in today's political landscape.

14 snips
May 16, 2025 • 25min
What is RFK doing for the health of Americans?
Sheryl Gay Stolberg, a health policy correspondent for The New York Times, dives into Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s tumultuous role as Health Secretary. She explores his controversial health policies, the implications of proposed funding cuts, and the polarized public reaction to his 'Make America Healthy Again' movement. Topics include the complex dynamics of vaccination debates, RFK's influence on Donald Trump’s health choices, and the growing challenges within the U.S. healthcare system. Sheryl's insights highlight the intricate relationship between politics and public health.

May 14, 2025 • 27min
Is Trump's free plane a gift too far for Republicans?
Donald Trump's recent tour in the Gulf raises eyebrows with his meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and lifting sanctions on Syria. The debate ignites over Qatar gifting him a luxury jet, prompting mixed reactions from his supporters. The discussion dives into Trump's view on peace through economic development in the Middle East, alongside his controversial foray into cryptocurrency fundraising. The hosts also explore the shifting dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, questioning its implications for global engagement.

May 13, 2025 • 21min
Introducing... Diddy On Trial
Nada Tawfik, the BBC's New York correspondent, delves into the high-stakes Diddy trial, revealing chilling details from the courtroom. Jurors witnessed a video of Diddy allegedly assaulting his former partner, Cassie. Tawfik discusses the prosecution’s powerful claims of coercion and abuse, contrasting them with the defense’s argument against serious charges. She also shares disturbing insights into the troubling dynamics of 'freak-offs,' highlighting the emotional toll on women involved. It's a gripping analysis of celebrity culture and justice.