
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

7 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 28min
Trump's Tariffs... Chaos or a cunning plan?
The podcast dives into the recent chaos surrounding Trump’s tariffs, revealing the dramatic shift to a 10% levy for most countries while China faces a staggering 125%. Discussions unfold on whether this is manipulation or a strategic move, stirring emotions and sparking debates among supporters. A quirky segment highlights the youngest and oldest listeners, illustrating the hosts' aim to engage younger audiences with fun topics. The conversation wraps up with a lighthearted touch, including skincare secrets and a call for community involvement.

12 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 32min
Trump’s Tariffs...
Dive into the whirlwind of Donald Trump's latest tariff decisions, which saw a staggering 125% increase on China while pausing others. The hosts tackle the widespread economic anxiety rippling through American consumers and how social media shapes perceptions of these policies. They explore unexpected impacts on smaller economies, like the Falkland Islands, using humor and memes to lighten the complex topic. Plus, a charming conversation about the podcast's youngest fans adds a whimsical twist to the serious discussions.

5 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 30min
Americanswers! Which news stories are being overshadowed by Trump's tariffs?
Dive into recent highlights like the first US measles death in a decade and the alarming rise of vaccine misinformation. Explore the chaotic protests against Trump's policies, showcasing public discontent. Hear about the controversial deportation of Venezuelans and its legal complexities, as well as the political implications behind such actions. The hosts also discuss congressional controversies and the crucial role of youth engagement in shaping political discourse. It's a whirlwind tour of pressing issues often overshadowed in the news!

Apr 4, 2025 • 33min
Is Elon Musk leaving the White House?
In this discussion, economist EJ Antoni from the Heritage Foundation delves into the recent political landscape, spotlighting Elon Musk’s financial role in a pivotal Wisconsin Supreme Court election. They explore how Musk's support shaped voter perceptions and the ramifications of his potential departure from the White House. The conversation also touches on the evolving dynamics between Musk and Trump, alongside the implications of Trump’s trade policies and tariffs on the economy. It's a blend of political insight and keen observations about the shifting tides in American politics.

Apr 3, 2025 • 23min
Will Trump’s tariffs start a global trade war?
Donald Trump’s new tariffs may spark a global trade war, raising consumer prices and reshaping economies worldwide. The hosts break down which countries will be hit hardest and how the UK might fare amidst these changes. They highlight the odd criteria behind the tariff lists and the potential backfire on American manufacturing. International reactions from countries like South Korea and Japan emphasize the wide-reaching implications of these policies, while Vietnam’s shifting alliances could alter the trade landscape even further.

7 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 26min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Could Trump run for a third term?
The discussion kicks off with Donald Trump's cryptic hints about a potential third term, navigating the tricky waters of constitutional law. Elon Musk's hefty donations to a crucial Supreme Court race stir questions about legality and influence. Speculation around Trump's bizarre Greenland ambitions presents a humorous yet serious examination of international relations. The conversation also touches on how the intersection of social media and politics shapes public perception, all while unfolding the chaos of Trump's administration.

11 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 31min
Will US-Canada relations ever be the same again?
Jordan Heath-Rawlings, a Canadian journalist and host of the Elbows Up podcast, joins the hosts to delve into the tumultuous impact of recently imposed U.S. tariffs on cars. He discusses how these tariffs signify a shift in Canada-U.S. relations and stir fears within Canadian politics. The timing of the announcements, perceived as distractions from domestic issues, raises concerns. Additionally, the conversation touches on how these trade tensions affect Tesla and the electric vehicle market, alongside cultural implications for Canada as it navigates these turbulent waters.

5 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 24min
We speak to the journalist behind Signalgate
Geoffrey Goldberg, a journalist for The Atlantic, shares a unique peek into a security breach that saw him accidentally included in a chat with Trump’s top officials. He details the chaos that ensued when he published the chat, triggering a fierce backlash from the White House, including Trump's claims of a “witch hunt”. Goldberg argues for accountability, urging the administration to fix the breach. The discussion digs into the delicate balance between journalistic integrity and national security, all against a backdrop of polarized political opinions.

Mar 26, 2025 • 33min
Can Donald Trump shrug off the Signal chat leak?
The podcast dives into a sensitive military leak involving plans for strikes in Yemen, igniting debate over classified information. The hosts analyze the implications of the editor of The Atlantic joining a crucial group chat and the White House's defensive stance. There's a humorous yet serious look at the use of Signal for official communications, unveiling the absurdities of secure government work. The discussion wraps up with how this scandal shapes Trump's political landscape and the complexities of loyalty within the Republican Party.

Mar 24, 2025 • 29min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Why does Trump want to shut down the Education Department?
Join the lively discussion where hosts tackle whether Trump can dismantle the Department of Education without Congress, and its potential consequences for special needs students. They also humorously navigate breakfast debates before diving into the peculiarities of Trump's controversial portrait that sparked his ire. Plus, the podcast sheds light on the U.S.'s role in Canada's upcoming snap election and speculates on Trump's ambitious plans for a third term, questioning the flexibility of constitutional rules.
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