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
Nov 29, 2024 • 35min
The Trump Trials... Cases Closed?
The dramatic conclusion of Donald Trump's legal battles unfolds as key charges are dropped. The podcast delves into the implications of political prosecutions and the potential misuse of the Justice Department. Discussions also touch on the psychological impacts on figures like Joe Biden and Liz Cheney. The controversial topic of pardons related to the January 6th riots is examined, raising important questions about fairness and accountability. Lastly, the hosts share light-hearted Thanksgiving traditions, bridging politics with personal stories.
Nov 27, 2024 • 32min
Will Trumponomics crash the world economy?
Wendy Edelberg, a Senior Fellow in Economic Studies at the Brookings Institution and former economist for both the Bush and Obama administrations, joins the discussion. The conversation centers on Trump's proposed tariffs and their potential chaos for global trade and consumer prices. Wendy shares insights on how these tariffs could affect everything from avocado prices to employment in manufacturing. The talk dives deep into the motivations behind these policies, weighing their political implications alongside economic realities.
Nov 25, 2024 • 26min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Who will pay for Trump's inauguration?
The discussion dives into the rise of Blue Sky and its potential to deepen political polarization among its users. With Trump's upcoming inauguration, the hosts speculate on who might fund the event and the implications of controversial cabinet picks. They explore the evolving dynamics of presidential inaugurations, including traditions and challenges like January weather. Plus, there's an engaging focus on how social media influences modern discourse and shapes public opinion in ways we may not fully understand.
Nov 22, 2024 • 31min
Will RFK Jr Make America Healthy Again?
RFK Jr.'s controversial views on vaccines and big pharma spark intense discussion among the hosts. His nomination as Health Secretary raises questions about potential shifts in public health policy amidst a polarized climate. They explore his discomfort with fast food in light of his anti-ultra-processed stance and the implications for American dietary choices. The potential for clashes within Trump's cabinet also looms, along with speculations about future political dynamics and upcoming candidates for the 2028 elections.
Nov 20, 2024 • 28min
What will Trump do about Russia?
Robert Wilkie, the director of defense transition during Donald Trump's administration, shares valuable insights into preparing Trump's defense policy. He discusses the potential for Trump to negotiate an end to the Ukraine war amid rising international tensions. Wilkie reveals the rationale behind controversial cabinet appointments, including a Fox News presenter for defense secretary. The conversation also touches on the diverse foreign policy perspectives within Trump's camp and their impact on NATO and energy policies concerning Russia.
Nov 18, 2024 • 28min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Biden's last effort to help Ukraine?
President Biden's recent authorization for Ukraine to use American long-range missiles raises questions about his commitment before the potential shift in power. The conversation shifts to Trump's cabinet selections, stirring debate on his genuine interest in governance. Meanwhile, the complexities of the American middle class and how it intertwines with politics provide a fascinating lens into class identity. Discussions delve deep into political legacy and social media's role in shaping public perception in this contentious political landscape.
Nov 15, 2024 • 34min
The Trump-whisperers
In this captivating discussion, Marc Fisher, Associate Editor at The Washington Post and co-author of ‘Trump Revealed,’ dives into the shifting dynamics of Donald Trump's inner circle. He reveals how Trump's family continues to play a pivotal role while new media influencers are stepping in. The conversation navigates the evolution of Trump's advisory network and the implications of controversial cabinet nominations. Fisher also touches on the tensions within American media and how they influence public perception of politics.
Nov 13, 2024 • 31min
You’re hired! Trump chooses his top team
Donald Trump is handpicking his cabinet, with Elon Musk in line to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency. A surprising meeting between Trump and Biden shows a cordial dynamic, hinting at evolving political relations. Speculation surrounds Melania Trump's absence from events, casting a spotlight on their relationship. The podcast humorously critiques Trump's immigration policies and reflects on Musk's influence in the administration, revealing societal divides and legislative challenges ahead.
Nov 11, 2024 • 26min
Americanswers… on 5Live! How did the polls get the election so wrong?
The hosts dive deep into the reasons behind the polling inaccuracies that led to Trump's unexpected win. They examine the media's role in shaping narratives and how social media skews public perception. A fascinating segment highlights Susie Wiles' influence in the Trump campaign. The conversation shifts to the skepticism surrounding election integrity, revealing trends in public opinion. Lastly, they ponder Biden's potential final moves and the implications of a changing political landscape, all peppered with humorous anecdotes about voter interactions.
Nov 9, 2024 • 31min
Profile: Who is Donald Trump? (Part 2… The Politician)
Meredith McGraw and Jonathan Karl, seasoned political correspondents, delve into the tumultuous presidency of Donald Trump. They discuss his dual image as a savior and a threat to democracy, examining his unpredictable foreign policy, particularly with Kim Jong-un and the Abraham Accords. The conversation also highlights controversial decisions like the Muslim ban and the chaos surrounding the January 6th insurrection. Their insights on Trump's charisma reveal the complexities of his leadership style, shaping today's Republican Party and the political landscape.
