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
21 snips
Jan 18, 2026 • 31min
Introducing The Global Story... what's really behind Trump's foreign policy?
Explore how Trump's foreign policy ambitions in Venezuela and Greenland are reshaping America's global standing. The hosts discuss whether his actions align with an imperial-style approach, questioning the shift from idealism to economic nationalism. Delve into the historical roots of U.S. foreign policy and the implications of the Monroe Doctrine. Insights on how recent U.S. actions might signal a broader sphere of influence and the risks of military overreach are also examined, making for a compelling analysis of power dynamics.
16 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 26min
The Jan 6th Capitol riots five years on… Why America is still divided
Five years after the Capitol riots, the divisions in American politics remain stark. A new Republican-led panel aims to reshape the narrative surrounding January 6, countering previous investigations. Social media's role in polarizing opinions is significant, as public sentiment among Republicans shifts. Language around the rioters also evolves, impacting perceptions. The debate over whether this messaging is sincere or strategic continues, along with concerns over how politicization affects shared memories of that day.
16 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 32min
Can Denmark convince Trump not to “conquer” Greenland?
Tensions mount as Denmark and Greenland's ministers discuss their territorial integrity with U.S. officials, rejecting any notion of ceding Greenland. Meanwhile, Jerome Powell confronts Trump's insults and a DOJ investigation in a rare public statement, raising concerns about the independence of the Federal Reserve. The hosts explore the potential repercussions of politicizing monetary policy and how Trump's desire for lower rates could affect global markets. With Greenland's strategic significance on the table, the geopolitics become even more complex.
22 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 33min
Americanswers... On 5 Live! What do Americans really think of Donald Trump?
The discussion dives into Donald Trump's fluctuating support amid controversial actions regarding Iran and Venezuela. Sarah's viral question about Greenland sheds light on press-room dynamics. There’s a deep analysis of America's divided opinions on military action and the implications of ICE shootings. The impact of internet blackouts on reporting from Iran is highlighted, along with insights into how social media shapes voter attitudes. The team also explores the political intricacies in Minnesota and what it means for Trump's popularity ahead of the elections.
18 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 26min
Can the US really rebuild Venezuela’s oil industry?
Robert Bryce, an energy writer and analyst, dives into the complexities of reviving Venezuela's oil industry, post-Maduro capture. He discusses the historical context of Venezuela's oil prosperity and how Chávez's reforms led to decline. Bryce emphasizes the U.S. motivations surrounding oil and the geopolitical stakes involving China and Russia. He articulates the challenges private companies face, including security risks and past expropriations. With the backdrop of an electricity crisis, he warns that without careful governance, rebuilding efforts could mirror Iraq's failures.
10 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 29min
The fatal Minneapolis ICE shooting
Protests erupt in Minneapolis following a fatal shooting of a woman by ICE agents, sparking controversy and conflicting narratives. Hosts dive into video footage and discuss the contrasting accounts between the Trump administration and local officials. They explore the identity of the victim, Renée Good, and how it shapes public perception. With calls for investigation and a potential nationwide protest movement looming, they ask what this means for immigration policy and the political landscape ahead of the midterms.
20 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 26min
How far will Trump go to seize Greenland?
The discussion opens with Trump's surprising interest in acquiring Greenland, now viewed with renewed seriousness. As tensions rise in the region, the hosts analyze the potential military implications and alarming responses from European leaders. The strategic significance of Greenland is explored, highlighting its valuable resources and geopolitical value. The conversation takes a turn as they weigh the options of purchasing versus military action, while shedding light on Stephen Miller's influential role in shaping these aggressive policies. The episode raises questions about NATO's future in this context.
8 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 30min
Americanswers... On 5 Live! Could Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro be found not guilty in a US court?
Nicolás Maduro's court appearance stirs controversy as he pleads not guilty to serious charges. The hosts dive into the evidence against him and explore the terrifying possibility of an acquittal. They also discuss who truly governs Venezuela and weigh in on Trump’s bold Greenland comments. Listeners ponder the implications of US military action and how that might affect public sentiment. Additionally, concerns about investment in Venezuela's beleaguered oil sector emerge, while debates over Trump's approach hint at a potential shift in American foreign policy.
30 snips
Jan 4, 2026 • 32min
Trump’s Venezuela takeover... everything you need to know
The podcast dives into the dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. It discusses the intricate planning and CIA intelligence that made the operation possible. Trump's vision for Venezuela's future is explored, including the involvement of oil companies and promises for reconstruction. Historical comparisons to Iraq raise concerns about unintended consequences. The conversation also touches on the impact on Venezuelan migrants and international reactions from countries like Cuba and Russia.
7 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 29min
How did a YouTuber stop federal funding to Minnesota?
A conservative YouTuber's claims about Somali-run childcare centers in Minnesota have led to the Trump administration freezing federal funding. The podcast dives into the controversy, contrasting these allegations with findings from mainstream media that found little evidence of fraud. It also explores the implications for Minnesota's Somali community and discusses new New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's ambitious governance promises. Will his approach redefine the Democratic party, and how will he tackle challenges like housing and public trust?
