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 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.
5 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 25min
Why has RFK Jr pulled $500m of mRNA vaccine funding?
A significant $500 million in mRNA vaccine funding has been cancelled, sparking debates on health and safety. RFK Jr. seeks to redirect efforts toward more resilient vaccine platforms. The podcast also dives into the scandal surrounding the Clintons and Epstein, exploring political strategies and public perception. Furthermore, a controversial job statistics dismissal raises questions about employment data integrity and its political ramifications, shedding light on the fragility of truth in today’s political narratives.
Aug 5, 2025 • 53min
BONUS EPISODE: Newscast and Americast live from the Edinburgh Fringe
James Cook, Scotland editor, brings his insights into UK politics from the Edinburgh Fringe. He shares humorous anecdotes about covering Donald Trump and his impact on UK media. The discussion shifts to provocative nuclear rhetoric and the cultural influences shaping today's political landscape. They also investigate celebrity voting roles, using Sydney Sweeney's registration as an example, and critique advertising strategies in political discourse. Finally, Cook reflects on identity struggles in the U.S. amid current leadership challenges.
18 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 35min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Why has Sydney Sweeney's jeans ad sparked a race debate?
The podcast dives into the heated controversy sparked by a jeans ad featuring Sydney Sweeney, igniting debates about race and beauty standards. It also examines Donald Trump’s endorsement of the ad and his bold firing of a federal employee over job stats. Ghislaine Maxwell's controversial transfer to a minimum-security facility raises questions about political maneuvering, while humorously exploring Trump’s interactions with media, including a South Park episode critiquing his legal tactics.
9 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 31min
Trump v Murdoch: Who will win?
David Yelland, former editor of The Sun, delves into the turbulent relationship between Donald Trump and Rupert Murdoch. He discusses Trump's recent claims of unfair treatment by Murdoch's media, leading to rising tensions. Yelland examines the legal battles involved, such as Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal, and the potential repercussions for both figures. As their bond strains, the conversation highlights how this power struggle could influence American politics and media narratives moving forward.
16 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 26min
Will Trump stand firm on his tariff deadlines?
Erin Delmore, BBC's North America business correspondent, dives into the hot topic of President Trump's unwavering stance on trade tariffs. She discusses the economic impact of these policies and their potential effects on American businesses and consumers. The conversation also touches on the recent US-EU trade agreement and the complexities of negotiations with China and India. Additionally, there's a humorous exchange that blends American and British sports culture, rounding out a lively discussion on tariffs and trade dynamics.
7 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 30min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Trump hosts Starmer at his Scottish golf resort
A lively discussion unfolds around Donald Trump's recent Scottish golf resort meeting with Keir Starmer, unearthing the complexities of their political rapport. The hosts explore Trump's knack for controversial rhetoric and the implications for US-UK ties. Intriguingly, they delve into his interactions with world leaders while grappling with ongoing narratives involving Jeffrey Epstein. The podcast also touches on the diminishing independence of Congress and invites listener feedback to enhance future content. Get ready for an insightful ride through politics and personalities!
46 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 32min
Donald Trump vs The Wall Street Journal
Tensions rise as Donald Trump takes on the Wall Street Journal over a $10 billion lawsuit linked to his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The ongoing media saga raises questions about Trump's media strategy and public perception. Explore the implications of press restrictions on presidential coverage and how legal battles shape the narrative around powerful figures. The discussion also touches on the recent cancellation of a late-night talk show and its impact on free speech and audience engagement.
Jul 23, 2025 • 32min
Donald Trump’s mid-year review
Marc Short, former White House Legislative Affairs Director and a close aide to Mike Pence, joins the discussion to dissect Donald Trump's performance during the first six months of his second term. He analyzes the rapid pace of Trump's agenda, particularly on trade and immigration. The conversation dives into the economic impacts of tariffs and the geopolitical tensions involving NATO and Ukraine. Short also reflects on the changing dynamics within the Republican Party post-Trump, spotlighting internal conflicts and their implications for future candidates.
Jul 21, 2025 • 32min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Is Trump a better friend to Britain than Biden?
The hosts dive into the unique dynamics of US-UK relations, spotlighting Trump's upcoming visit to Scotland and contrasting him with Biden. They unravel the Epstein scandal's impact on Trump's loyal supporters, exploring the tension between loyalty and truth. Another fascinating topic is the move to lower the voting age to 16 in the UK, examining its potential effects on American politics. Additionally, they discuss the America Party and its possible disruption of the political landscape, all while addressing the role of social media in shaping today’s political discourse.
