
Americast
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.
Latest episodes

12 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 39min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! Did Trump ambush Zelensky?
Tensions escalated during a fiery White House encounter between Trump and Zelensky, raising questions about premeditated motives versus spontaneous conflict. The podcast dives into the unpredictable dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, especially as public opinion and poll ratings fluctuate. It explores the GOP's internal struggles under Trump's sway and the courage shown by Zelensky amidst a shifting American support landscape, alongside the role of media in shaping political narratives in today's polarized climate.

18 snips
Mar 2, 2025 • 35min
Who’s Running America… Trump’s Health Secretary (RFK Jr)
In this captivating discussion, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new Secretary of Health and Human Services and a member of the storied Kennedy family, shares his unexpected journey from Democrat to Trump appointee. Joined by Sheryl Gay Stolberg from the New York Times and Clare Malone of The New Yorker, they delve into the complexities of Kennedy's views on health and vaccines, highlighting his aim to tackle America's chronic disease epidemic. The conversation also touches on the impact of personal tragedy on conspiracy beliefs and the political rift within his own family.

Feb 28, 2025 • 30min
Ukrainecast: Trump and Zelensky clash in the Oval Office
Tensions soared in the White House as President Trump and President Zelensky clashed during a heated press conference. Their passionate exchange revealed deep differences in diplomatic views on Ukraine’s ongoing conflict. Observers noted the precarious nature of their negotiation dynamics, reflecting the challenges of military support and international relations. Amid the chaos, the podcast emphasizes the resilience and unity among Ukrainians facing Russian aggression. It's a gripping look at the high stakes of diplomacy and the future of Ukraine.

7 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 24min
Did Starmer win over Trump at the White House?
A recent meeting between Keir Starmer and Donald Trump highlights their contrasting personalities and the delicate nature of UK-US relations. Despite differing views on Ukraine and trade, they managed to strike a cordial rapport. The discussion also delves into the culinary choices of their meeting, featuring an elegant menu that eschewed fast food. Additionally, debates surrounding freedom of expression in the UK add nuance to the diplomatic landscape. Overall, it's a fascinating look at modern diplomacy and the nuances of international interactions.

7 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 29min
Why is Trump sharing an AI video of Gaza?
Donald Trump stirred controversy by sharing an AI-generated video depicting Gaza in a surreal light, igniting discussions about the role of social media in shaping public perception. The hosts analyze the implications of such provocative content and how it may deepen political divides. They also delve into Elon Musk's recent communications with federal employees, reflecting on the chaos within government operations. The episode explores the ethical dilemmas of AI technology and its influence on political narratives in today's fast-paced media landscape.

14 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 32min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! What's Elon Musk's latest threat to federal workers?
Emmanuel Macron's pivotal visit to Washington, D.C., stirs the pot on the Ukraine conflict. Rising egg prices are analyzed as unexpected political symbols, impacting voter sentiment and economic discourse. Elon Musk's provocative email to federal workers raises eyebrows, spotlighting anxiety within government ranks. The dynamics of U.S.-European relations are also explored, especially amid tensions regarding far-right movements. Voter 'buyer's remorse' concerning Trump introduces deeper discussions on public approval and its implications for future elections.

9 snips
Feb 23, 2025 • 29min
Who’s Running America… Trump’s Policy Chief (Stephen Miller)
In this discussion, Jonathan Blitzer, a Staff writer at The New Yorker, offers deep insights into Stephen Miller's controversial career as a key architect of Trump's policies. Former camp mate Chris Moody shares intriguing anecdotes from their shared teenage years, shedding light on Miller’s early formation of conservative beliefs. The conversation delves into Miller's impact on immigration policy, his unwavering loyalty to Trump, and how he maneuvered through the political landscape during tumultuous times.

Feb 21, 2025 • 34min
How far away is a Ukraine peace deal?
International diplomacy shifts as the U.S. initiates talks with Russia, excluding Ukraine and Europe. This new development sparks a European emergency summit to regain influence. Tensions rise with disputes between U.S. and Ukrainian leadership, raising questions about Ukraine's role in peace negotiations. The hosts delve into the implications of Donald Trump's statements, scrutiny of Zelensky's position, and the challenges posed by disinformation campaigns. They emphasize the need for a united European response amidst ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.

24 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 33min
Trump and Zelensky’s war of words
Tensions escalate as Trump and Zelensky clash verbally, with Trump controversially blaming Ukraine for the war's onset. The podcast dives into Trump's recent diplomatic outreach to Putin, contrasting it with Biden's stance. Zelensky calls out disinformation in their exchanges, highlighting the complexities of U.S.-Russia relations. The hosts discuss the shifting dynamics of alliances, European defense, and the humanitarian toll of the conflict, questioning the future of U.S. support for Ukraine and what upcoming summits might hold.

Feb 17, 2025 • 35min
Americanswers... on 5 Live! Will the US leave NATO?
Tensions rise as American and Russian leaders meet in Saudi Arabia for peace talks over Ukraine. With Trump hinting at potential meetings with Putin, is NATO's future in jeopardy? The podcast dives into the critique of Trump's foreign policy stance and whether Ukraine should join NATO. The discussion also sheds light on America's media polarization and the challenges it poses to public perception. Additionally, debates about historical U.S. interests in Greenland and political dynamics highlight the evolving landscape leading up to the next elections.
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