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
Oct 22, 2024 • 30min
14 days until the election... Who's winning?
With election day looming, the podcast dives into the contrasting campaign strategies of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. A special on-the-ground report reveals Harris’s efforts in key swing states and the crucial role of female voters. The hosts discuss the unreliable nature of polls and explore the intriguing influence of the Arab-American vote in Michigan. Insights on the gender divide in voter support add depth to their predictions, all while highlighting the unpredictable nature of this election.
Oct 21, 2024 • 31min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! Donald Trump has a small fries issue with Kamala Harris
The podcast delves into the intriguing tactics of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump as they campaign in swing states. A comedic spotlight is put on Trump's fast-food antics at McDonald's and the implications of misinformation regarding Harris's past. The discussion touches upon the cultural significance of dining experiences in American politics. Additionally, Trump's unconventional DJing at a rally highlights an unusual campaign strategy. Legal controversies stir around Elon Musk's incentives for voting, raising eyebrows in the political realm.
Oct 19, 2024 • 27min
Global News Podcast x Global Story x Americast
Political education backgrounds of figures like Trump and Harris raise fascinating questions about their identities. The hosts delve into the polarization of U.S. elections, highlighting how entrenched identities shape voter behavior. They also discuss the risks of electoral violence and the imperative for enhanced security measures. Financial dynamics in campaigns reveal gender challenges, especially regarding Harris. Additionally, implications of the 22nd Amendment on Trump’s potential comeback and the complexities of immigration policies in election contexts are explored.
Oct 18, 2024 • 32min
Will abortion decide the election? It might in Arizona...
Abortion rights are set to play a pivotal role in the upcoming elections, particularly in Arizona where voters confront a significant ballot initiative. The aftermath of the Dobbs decision has created a polarized political climate, with contrasting views emerging from both parties. Personal stories, like that of Amber Thurman, are mobilizing young voters through social media. As the Sun Belt rises in political importance, shifting demographics may reshape local and national elections. The discussion reveals the complexities and unpredictability of voter sentiment around reproductive rights.
Oct 16, 2024 • 32min
Does Kamala Harris have a male voter problem?
Barack Obama critiques male voters' reluctance to support female candidates. The hosts delve into Kamala Harris's struggles to connect with black male voters amid social media's influence. They discuss the implications of Trump's outreach to young men and the evolving tactics in political engagement. Conversations highlight the challenges posed by past controversies and the shifting dynamics of race and gender in the election landscape. The hosts also invite listener participation to discuss local issues, emphasizing community involvement.
Oct 14, 2024 • 31min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! How likely is a repeat of the January 6 attacks?
Tensions are high as the upcoming election looms, with a spotlight on how foreign policy affects undecided voters. The conversation turns to the haunting memories of January 6, exploring the potential for election day violence and the experiences of election workers under threat. Independent candidates, like Jill Stein, are discussed for their impact on swing states. The rise of conspiracy theories in political discourse is examined alongside beloved political films, offering insights into today's explosive political landscape.
Oct 11, 2024 • 32min
It’s James Carville, Stupid!
Joining the discussion is James Carville, a legendary Democratic strategist famed for his role in Bill Clinton's 1992 campaign and the iconic phrase, 'It’s the economy, stupid!' Carville shares insights on the need for Kamala Harris to adopt a more aggressive campaign strategy in 2024. He emphasizes the importance of direct messaging for the Democrats to effectively counter Republican narratives. The conversation also touches on the disillusionment with current leadership and the vital role of new voices in American politics.
Oct 10, 2024 • 37min
Hurricane Milton and a storm of misinformation
Hurricane Milton left over 3 million without power in Florida, sparking a conversation about the storm's impact on elections and the flood of misinformation online. The hosts examine how political figures navigate crises and the trust issues arising from conspiracy theories. They also discuss the challenges of voting amid hurricane disruptions and the role of generative AI in shaping public perception. Additionally, the cultural significance of the Waffle House as a disaster response indicator adds a unique twist to the discussion.
Oct 7, 2024 • 32min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Why has Melania Trump entered the abortion debate?
Matt Chorley, host of BBC Radio 5 Live, joins the discussion, expertly breaking down Melania Trump's surprising entry into the abortion debate through her memoir, raising questions about its impact on her husband’s campaign. The conversation dives into Kamala Harris's evolving social media strategy, showcasing the stark contrasts between U.S. and U.K. elections, along with humorous anecdotes about political memorabilia. They also explore the complexities of voter engagement in today’s polarized environment.
Oct 4, 2024 • 29min
Will conflict in the Middle East impact the US election?
Christiane Amanpour, CNN’s Chief International Anchor, shares her insights on the complexities of U.S. involvement in Middle East conflicts. The discussion delves into how these tensions could sway the upcoming American elections. Amanpour highlights the historical precedence of foreign crises influencing voter sentiments. They explore the balancing act of U.S. policy amid Israeli military actions and examine how diminishing U.S. influence might reshape future foreign relations.
