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
13 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 35min
Americanswers! Has Donald Trump really stopped six (or seven) wars?
The discussion kicks off with Trump’s provocative claims about ending six (or seven) wars, stirring debate about his actual role in these conflicts. There’s anxiety brewing among his supporters regarding a potential U.S. security guarantee for Ukraine. Mail-in voting controversies take center stage, questioning the president's power to regulate it. The hosts also explore redistricting tactics and how they shape elections, alongside the discontent simmering within the MAGA crowd. Plus, Trump’s plan for a UFC fight at the White House adds an unexpected twist!
12 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 29min
What did Trump offer Zelensky after their Oval Office meeting?
The meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky showcases a surprising shift in diplomatic dynamics. They discuss security guarantees for Ukraine, revealing tensions among European leaders. Meanwhile, the hosts delve into the complex relationship between Trump and Putin, noting potential negotiation signs. The gathering draws historical comparisons and highlights media narratives, especially Zelensky's canceled Fox News interview. As the episode wraps up, the discussion reflects on the chaotic nature of political reporting in the Trump era, inviting listener engagement.
Aug 16, 2025 • 32min
What happened when Trump met Putin in Alaska?
Vitaly Shevchenko, a key voice on Ukraine's situation, and UK-based journalist Victoria Derbyshire share their insights on the recent summit between Trump and Putin. They dissect the leaders' claims of progress while highlighting the lack of concrete deals regarding Ukraine. The discussion sheds light on the geopolitical implications of the meeting and critiques the superficial nature of their talks. Both guests unpack the stark contrasts in diplomatic approaches, emphasizing the potential missed opportunities for a resolution in the ongoing conflict.
Aug 14, 2025 • 33min
Inside Trump’s meeting with Putin… Americast is in Alaska!
Donald Trump prepares for a high-stakes meeting with Vladimir Putin, claiming he'll know in minutes if a deal is possible. The discussion reveals how historical ties, like Alaska's purchase from Russia, contribute to current tensions. The hosts analyze Trump's negotiation tactics, including potential concessions regarding Ukraine. They also explore the legal complexities surrounding Putin's potential visit amid his ICC indictment. With humor and anecdotes, they provide a colorful look at Alaska's rich history and its role in global diplomacy.
Aug 13, 2025 • 26min
What's really behind Trump's crime crackdown?
The discussion explores Trump's controversial deployment of the National Guard in Washington, D.C. Hosts analyze the implications of military presence in cities and the legal concerns surrounding it. They dive into the narrative surrounding crime rates and political maneuvering, including reactions from Democrats. Listeners also hear about how these moves relate to broader issues like police reform and the Epstein files. The episode raises questions about the militarization of civil contexts and its effects on public discourse and local governance.
Aug 11, 2025 • 41min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Why is Donald Trump deploying the National Guard to Washington DC?
Donald Trump's deployment of the National Guard in Washington D.C. stirs controversy, raising questions about local and international implications. The hosts discuss security measures during political visits, particularly J.D. Vance's holidays in the Cotswolds. They also tackle the contentious issue of redistricting in the U.S. and media biases towards political figures. Additionally, they explore Trump's tariffs and how they interconnect with civil unrest concerns, all while emphasizing the importance of narrative control in today's political landscape.
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.
