Americast
BBC News
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
18 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 36min
What does Donald Trump want from his UK state visit?
As Donald Trump arrives for his second state visit to the UK, expect discussions on trade tensions and divisive topics like Gaza and Ukraine. The hosts delve into potential flashpoints, including the Jeffrey Epstein saga and political dynamics surrounding UK PM Keir Starmer. They also address the chilling effects on free speech in the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, with implications for Trump’s supporters and the MAGA movement. The contrast between the pomp of Windsor and the chaos back home paints a vivid picture of Trump's diplomatic challenges.
Sep 15, 2025 • 44min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Who is Tyler Robinson, Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer?
This week, Kim Darroch, former US Ambassador and key organizer of Donald Trump's first state visit, shares fascinating insights on high-stakes diplomacy. He discusses the meticulous planning behind state visits and the evolving political landscape following Charlie Kirk's shooting. The team analyzes Tyler Robinson's motives and the broader societal implications of the tragedy, exploring the cultural divide over gun violence between the US and the UK. It's a compelling conversation blending politics, media, and personal stories.
11 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 34min
Charlie Kirk's killing: A dangerous moment for America?
The shocking assassination of a well-known conservative activist sparks intense discussions about its ramifications for public safety and political dialogue. The hosts analyze Charlie Kirk's controversial influence on young voters and the incendiary rhetoric permeating modern political discourse. They also explore the emotional fallout among political leaders and the growing concerns over violent language in politics. The impact of this tragedy raises critical questions about identity, ideology, and the state of political engagement in America.
Sep 10, 2025 • 26min
How could a young Ukrainian's killing change the U.S?
A tragic murder in Charlotte, North Carolina, has sparked intense discussions about crime and public safety. The political implications are vast, as key figures exploit this narrative for their agendas. Family members plead for dignity amid the turmoil, raising important questions about media portrayal and racial dynamics. The debate also emphasizes how crime narratives influence political strategy and funding decisions in local communities, reflecting on the human cost of such political maneuvering.
12 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 35min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! “Chipocalypse Now”… has Trump declared war on Chicago?
Donald Trump's controversial threats to Chicago spark intense discussions about military rhetoric and political conflict. The hosts analyze his mixed reception at the US Open, revealing insights into his fluctuating popularity. They delve into the implications of a major deportation raid and its effects on the upcoming midterm elections. Amidst the turmoil, they explore the strategies Democrats must adopt to navigate this charged political landscape. Expect a lively debate on leadership, public opinion, and the future of immigration policy in America.
17 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 41min
Will Epstein's victims force Trump to release more files?
Miles Taylor, former chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security under Trump, joins the discussion on the recent gathering of Epstein's victims in D.C. They demand transparency from the government regarding Epstein’s associates. Taylor highlights Trump’s retaliatory tactics against critics, drawing parallels to Nixon's vendettas. The conversation also delves into the political ramifications of the Epstein scandal, revealing how survivor demands for accountability are reshaping the narrative within Congress and affecting the broader political landscape.
Sep 2, 2025 • 30min
Why is Trump targeting America's most powerful bank?
Jillian Tett, an economics columnist for the Financial Times and head of King's College at Cambridge, dives into Donald Trump’s unusual targeting of the Federal Reserve. She explores the consequences of a president seeking to control this independent institution, particularly Trump’s tensions with Chairman Jerome Powell. The conversation reveals the pivotal role the Fed plays in regulating the economy, the implications of political pressures on monetary policy, and what his ambitions mean for economic stability ahead of the 2024 election.
Sep 1, 2025 • 26min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Why did the internet think Trump was dead?
Matt Chorley, a presenter on 5 Live, joins Marianna Spring and Sumi Somaskanda to dissect the bizarre social media frenzy surrounding rumors of Donald Trump's death. They explore how false claims start and their impact on public perception. The firing of CDC Chief Dr. Susan Monarez also sparks a discussion on health policy discontent. Additionally, they analyze how Trump's tariffs may be shifting India's alliances toward Russia and China, especially with PM Modi's recent visit after seven years.
9 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 29min
Will the Democrats go "dark woke" to take on Trump?
California Governor Gavin Newsom is adopting a bold, 'dark woke' online strategy to counter Donald Trump's influence. Newsom's approach mimics Trump's style to engage voters and shake up the political narrative. The podcast delves into the implications of this tactic for the Democratic Party and questions the morality of aggressive political strategies. Additionally, it touches on serious issues like gun violence following a tragic school shooting and explores the murky motives behind violent extremism in today’s complex social landscape.
7 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 31min
Americanswers! Is Donald Trump behaving like a 'dictator'?
The podcast dives into the Jeffrey Epstein scandal and its impact on Donald Trump, considering whether new interviews could help him or Ghislaine Maxwell. A gripping deportation case raises questions about political motives in the Trump administration. The hosts explore troubling parallels between Trump and historical dictators, examining his governance style amid critics. It also offers a lighthearted twist on pop culture, discussing Taylor Swift's engagement and Trump's reaction, melding serious topics with humor and contemporary relevance.
