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
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.
16 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 28min
Is Donald Trump losing his Latino base?
Mike Madrid, a veteran Latino pollster and author of 'The Latino Century,' dives into the shifting political landscape for Latino voters. He discusses how Trump's initial appeal to this demographic, mainly through economic messaging, faces scrutiny as concerns about living costs rise. Madrid highlights the possibility that Latino voters might quickly reassess their support. He also emphasizes the need for both parties to adapt to these changing dynamics, particularly around issues affecting working-class voters and the importance of community engagement.
13 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 35min
Americanswers! Has Donald Trump really stopped six (or seven) wars?
The discussion kicks off with Trump’s provocative claims about ending six (or seven) wars, stirring debate about his actual role in these conflicts. There’s anxiety brewing among his supporters regarding a potential U.S. security guarantee for Ukraine. Mail-in voting controversies take center stage, questioning the president's power to regulate it. The hosts also explore redistricting tactics and how they shape elections, alongside the discontent simmering within the MAGA crowd. Plus, Trump’s plan for a UFC fight at the White House adds an unexpected twist!
12 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 29min
What did Trump offer Zelensky after their Oval Office meeting?
The meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky showcases a surprising shift in diplomatic dynamics. They discuss security guarantees for Ukraine, revealing tensions among European leaders. Meanwhile, the hosts delve into the complex relationship between Trump and Putin, noting potential negotiation signs. The gathering draws historical comparisons and highlights media narratives, especially Zelensky's canceled Fox News interview. As the episode wraps up, the discussion reflects on the chaotic nature of political reporting in the Trump era, inviting listener engagement.
Aug 16, 2025 • 32min
What happened when Trump met Putin in Alaska?
Vitaly Shevchenko, a key voice on Ukraine's situation, and UK-based journalist Victoria Derbyshire share their insights on the recent summit between Trump and Putin. They dissect the leaders' claims of progress while highlighting the lack of concrete deals regarding Ukraine. The discussion sheds light on the geopolitical implications of the meeting and critiques the superficial nature of their talks. Both guests unpack the stark contrasts in diplomatic approaches, emphasizing the potential missed opportunities for a resolution in the ongoing conflict.
Aug 14, 2025 • 33min
Inside Trump’s meeting with Putin… Americast is in Alaska!
Donald Trump prepares for a high-stakes meeting with Vladimir Putin, claiming he'll know in minutes if a deal is possible. The discussion reveals how historical ties, like Alaska's purchase from Russia, contribute to current tensions. The hosts analyze Trump's negotiation tactics, including potential concessions regarding Ukraine. They also explore the legal complexities surrounding Putin's potential visit amid his ICC indictment. With humor and anecdotes, they provide a colorful look at Alaska's rich history and its role in global diplomacy.
Aug 13, 2025 • 26min
What's really behind Trump's crime crackdown?
The discussion explores Trump's controversial deployment of the National Guard in Washington, D.C. Hosts analyze the implications of military presence in cities and the legal concerns surrounding it. They dive into the narrative surrounding crime rates and political maneuvering, including reactions from Democrats. Listeners also hear about how these moves relate to broader issues like police reform and the Epstein files. The episode raises questions about the militarization of civil contexts and its effects on public discourse and local governance.
Aug 11, 2025 • 41min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Why is Donald Trump deploying the National Guard to Washington DC?
Donald Trump's deployment of the National Guard in Washington D.C. stirs controversy, raising questions about local and international implications. The hosts discuss security measures during political visits, particularly J.D. Vance's holidays in the Cotswolds. They also tackle the contentious issue of redistricting in the U.S. and media biases towards political figures. Additionally, they explore Trump's tariffs and how they interconnect with civil unrest concerns, all while emphasizing the importance of narrative control in today's political landscape.
Aug 8, 2025 • 35min
Why are Texan Democrats on the run?
Steve Israel, a former New York Congressman and chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, joins the discussion. He explains why Texas Democrats are fleeing, highlighting the intense battle over gerrymandering. They delve into the strategic maneuvers ahead of the 2026 Midterms, questioning if unconventional tactics can alter the political landscape. Israel also addresses the implications for national democracy, emphasizing how redistricting could reshape electoral control and spark further polarization in American politics.
