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, 2025 • 27min
Does Trump really want to invade Venezuela?
Donald Trump’s targeting of Venezuela raises serious questions about military operations in the Caribbean. The hosts dive into the U.S. justification for strikes, scrutinizing claims of drug trafficking and terrorism. Political motives are unmasked, revealing a mix of propaganda and immigration politics. They examine the implications of possible land invasions and regional reactions, particularly from Colombia. The discussion also critiques Trump’s narrative of peace amidst rising aggression. Intriguing insights into international relations unfold.
18 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 34min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! How will Donald Trump respond to the ‘No Kings’ protests?
Millions protested against Trump’s expanding authority in major cities. The hosts analyze his initial response and the implications for future protests amidst concerns over safety and surveillance. Ukrainian President Zelensky's tense meeting at the White House highlights challenges in securing military support. Additionally, John Bolton's indictment raises questions about Trump's targeting of former officials. The episode ends with discussions on political artifacts that could define the future and a hot mic moment involving Trump and foreign leaders.
30 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 36min
Can Trump silence the press?
James Rosen, Chief Washington correspondent for Newsmax and a seasoned journalist, discusses the Pentagon's controversial new press policy. He explains why Newsmax refused to sign the agreement that would restrict reporting to only authorized information. The conversation delves into the implications for press freedom and the chilling effects on investigative journalism, especially under the Trump administration’s broader media strategy. Rosen also recalls his experiences during the Obama-era investigation into his reporting, highlighting ongoing tensions between the press and government.
4 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 38min
The battle for the soul of the Democratic Party
Democrats are re-evaluating their strategy following a tough loss, focusing on upcoming elections in Virginia and New Jersey. Centrist candidates like Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger prioritize local issues and affordability, while progressive voices such as Zohran Mamdani challenge the party's traditional approach. The discussion includes how these races will influence future party dynamics for 2026. Additionally, the need for a new populist energy within the party resonates throughout, highlighting tensions between grassroots enthusiasm and moderate appeals.
Oct 13, 2025 • 28min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Has Donald Trump delivered a “historic dawn of a new Middle East”?
The U.S. president has declared a "historic dawn of a new Middle East" following the return of hostages. The hosts explore how much credit Trump deserves for the peace initiative and examine his possible long-term plans for Gaza. They delve into Jared Kushner's behind-the-scenes influence and discuss media ownership’s role in coverage of the conflict. Questions arise about whether Biden could have achieved the same results and the implications for U.S.-Iran relations. The timing of Trump's peace efforts regarding the Nobel Peace Prize is also analyzed.
Oct 10, 2025 • 39min
Trump's new plan for America's top universities
Inez Stepman, a Senior Policy and Legal Analyst at the Independent Women’s Forum, dives into the recent proposal from the Trump administration impacting U.S. universities. She critiques how federal grants could compromise academic freedom in exchange for conformity to new policies addressing elitism and racial bias. The conversation explores the need for merit-based admissions, the lack of true diversity in elite schools, and the influence of campus ideologies on broader society. Inez passionately advocates for reform, challenging the notion that government should dictate academic standards.
Oct 9, 2025 • 20min
Can Trump turn a Gaza ceasefire into a lasting peace deal?
Tensions in the Middle East rise as Trump hints at a potential Gaza ceasefire after a dramatic note from Marco Rubio. The podcast dissects a phase one deal involving hostage releases and Israeli pullbacks. Trump's unusual approach combines aggression with leverage, raising questions about his effectiveness compared to past leaders. The conversation explores the critical roles of Gulf states in negotiations and the vagueness of the deal. Can this breakthrough boost Trump's Nobel ambitions and reshape U.S. foreign policy?
48 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 29min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Is Chicago really a ‘war zone’?
Tensions rise as Texas deploys the National Guard to Chicago, sparking outrage from Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. The hosts dissect whether this move is legal and analyze Trump's motives. Meanwhile, the government shutdown looms with a standoff over spending plans. They question the significance of Trump selling '2028' merchandise: is it a hint at a future campaign or just a ploy for influence? The show also delves into the complexities of presidential power and disinformation’s role in shaping public opinion on military deployments.
11 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 32min
Why is Trump blowing up Venezuelan "drug boats"?
The podcast dives into the controversial U.S. strikes on Venezuelan boats allegedly carrying drugs. Hosts challenge the morality and legality of these actions, questioning the credibility of claims and potential repercussions. They analyze Trump's framing of the strikes as a protective measure for Americans. The conversation shifts to the backlash against Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show, exploring its cultural significance and political undertones. Will these controversies shape Latino voter dynamics? Tune in for a blend of politics, culture, and critical analysis!
24 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 37min
Will the Democrats’ shutdown gamble pay off?
The U.S. federal government has shut down, igniting fierce debates about political strategy and blame. Democrats aim to leverage this moment to protect healthcare benefits and challenge Republican spending cuts. Alongside this, Trump’s TikTok deal raises questions about ownership and the potential for political manipulation of its powerful algorithms. The hosts delve into whether Democrats can effectively reframe their message to the public while also navigating concerns about TikTok's influence in the political landscape.
