

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

Jul 12, 2024 • 35min
Is it the beginning of the end for Biden?
Former congressman and friend of President Biden, Steve Israel, discusses Jill Biden's influence, political party intel, and whether Biden can win in November. The podcast analyzes Biden's recent press conference, speculation on his candidacy, and strategic approach. It also explores Dr. Jill Biden's role as First Lady, influential figures in Biden's decision-making, and uncertainties in the upcoming election.

Jul 8, 2024 • 26min
Americanswers! Is it time for Kamala?
Former chief of staff at Department for Homeland Security, Miles Taylor, and Anthony discuss Biden's warning to critics, BBC's focus on his cognitive abilities, and Kamala Harris's absence in the campaign. They also explore the impact of Biden's debate performance, speculation on Harris as a nominee, and discussions on presidential immunity in the Hushmany case

Jul 6, 2024 • 30min
I’m still standing: Biden strikes back
Former Vice President and current President, Joe Biden, addresses doubts and defends his health and presidential record in an interview with ABC. Hosts analyze his performance and discuss potential successors. Topics include plummeting approval ratings, doubts about cognitive abilities, and speculations on Democratic vice presidential candidates.

Jul 3, 2024 • 35min
Is the U.S. president now above the law?
Constitutional law expert Alison LaCroix joins Sarah and Anthony to discuss the recent Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity, exploring the implications for past and future presidents. They also touch on Biden's legitimacy, Steve Bannon's election plans, and pressure on Biden to address concerns. The episode delves into complex legal issues and political dynamics around presidential power.

Jul 2, 2024 • 27min
Americanswers! Will Democrats force Joe Biden out? Who could take his place?
Former chief of staff at Department of Homeland Security, Miles Taylor, joins Justin and Marianna to discuss the possibility of Joe Biden stepping down and potential successors. They analyze Biden's chances against Trump, media coverage of the debate, false claims, and challenges for Democrats with social media impact.

Jun 28, 2024 • 37min
The Biden vs Trump Presidential Debate!
Former chief of staff at Department of Homeland Security, Miles Taylor, joins in to discuss the fiery Biden vs Trump Debate. The podcast covers critiques on both candidates' performances, missed opportunities, fact-checking failures, and Joe Biden's struggle with numbers during the debate. It also delves into key topics discussed like the economy, immigration, and January 6 response.

Jun 24, 2024 • 38min
Americanswers! What are bump stocks? And would Biden step aside?
Former DHS chief of staff Miles Taylor and Anthony explore the shift in southern voting preferences, VP pick speculations, bump stocks controversy, gun culture in the US, potential VP candidates, international relations concerns, American polarization, and upcoming presidential debate analysis.

Jun 20, 2024 • 40min
Up for debate? Trump and Biden prepare to spar again
Republican strategist Mike Murphy discusses the upcoming debate between Biden and Trump, focusing on economic concerns and criminal convictions. The podcast explores the significance of the debate and the potential impact on both candidates' political careers.

Jun 17, 2024 • 35min
Americanswers! The ‘special relationship’ and running for a third term?
The hosts discuss the US-UK 'special relationship' and speculate on Trump and Starmer's interaction, along with the potential for Trump to run for a third term. They also touch on voter behavior, UK misconceptions, and the upcoming presidential debate prep.

Jun 12, 2024 • 28min
Hunter Biden Trial…Guilty!
Discussing Hunter Biden's guilty verdict for lying about drug use to buy a gun, how it affects Joe Biden's re-election campaign, and potential pardon. Insight from Sarah Smith, fresh from the trial, and Jill Biden's former Press Secretary on the case's impact on Biden's inner circle.