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
Aug 9, 2024 • 30min
Life in the Trump Family
Fred Trump III, Donald Trump's nephew, opens up about his complicated relationship with his famous uncle and his unexpected support for Kamala Harris. He shares intriguing anecdotes from his upbringing that reveal the family dynamics, teasing out the tensions and rivalries that shape their public personas. Fred also reflects on the shifting political landscape and what it's like attending rallies with Harris, blending serious insights with lighter personal stories. His perspective offers a unique glimpse into life within the Trump family.
Aug 6, 2024 • 23min
Kamala Harris announces Tim Walz as her VP pick
Tim Walz, the newly anointed vice presidential pick and Minnesota Governor, brings his Midwestern charm and focus on working families to the spotlight. Alongside contributor Adam Fleming, the discussion dives into the strategic implications of his selection for the upcoming election. They explore how Walz’s relatable public persona, enhanced by social media, could resonate with younger voters. Plus, they analyze the internal dynamics within the Democratic party as they prepare for a challenging political landscape.
Aug 5, 2024 • 27min
Americanswers! Could Obama serve as VP to Kamala Harris?
Barack Obama, the former U.S. president known for his impactful leadership, joins current Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss the intriguing question of whether a past president can serve as vice president. They delve into the legal intricacies and electoral strategies surrounding this scenario. Meanwhile, Donald Trump stirs controversy by questioning Harris's racial identity at a recent convention. The conversation highlights the shifting dynamics of politics, particularly regarding young and minority voters, and the playful speculation around Harris’s potential vice presidential pick.
Aug 2, 2024 • 29min
Has there ever been an election campaign like THIS before?
In this insightful discussion, former BBC Washington correspondent and author Nick Bryant unpacks the chaotic landscape of current American politics. He draws fascinating parallels between today's turmoil and pivotal moments in history, particularly through Trump's influence. The conversation touches on the significance of vice presidential selections, political violence rooted in history, and the strategic framing of racial identity in elections. Bryant's expertise offers a captivating perspective on how these elements shape the electoral landscape.
Jul 31, 2024 • 30min
Battle of the campaigns… Harris v Trump!
Kamala Harris, the presumed 2024 opponent, is ramping up her campaign, pledging to tackle the southern border crisis while facing criticism for past inaction. Donald Trump is busy defending his controversial VP pick, JD Vance, after backlash over his comments. The conversation dives into the evolving political landscape, the significance of upcoming debates, and the candidates' differing strategies on immigration. Can Harris maintain her momentum while Trump counters with humor and policy critiques in the heated campaign?
Jul 29, 2024 • 30min
Americanswers! Could this be the last US election?
The podcast dives into Donald Trump's alarming promise to his supporters, hinting at a potential end to democracy. It scrutinizes the impact of political memes on younger voters and voter engagement, shedding light on how social media shapes opinions. The hosts also discuss the implications of AI-generated content on election narratives and speculate about Joe Biden’s future in politics. Additionally, they explore the dense web of rumors and perceptions that swirl around influential figures, emphasizing the need for awareness in today’s political landscape.
Jul 26, 2024 • 29min
Can You Buy The White Hou$e?
Expert Sarah Bryner from OpenSecrets discusses the influx of money in US politics, focusing on presidential campaigns and the motivations behind donations. The podcast explores the impact of campaign finance on American politics, the role of social media movements, foreign labor visas' influence, and the significance of money in shaping electoral success. It also dives into the impact of wealthy donors fueling conspiracy theories and the blurred lines between candidates and Super PACs.
Jul 25, 2024 • 28min
Biden Says WHY He’s Out Of The Race!
Former Vice President Joe Biden explains his decision not to run for another term in the White House, raising questions about his future. Hosts Justin and Adam dissect Biden's historic speech, speculate on his potential presidency continuation, and explore the impact of Supreme Court reform. They also delve into power dynamics within the Democratic Party and discuss a Saturday Night Live sketch featuring Democratic candidates.
Jul 24, 2024 • 30min
Americanswers! Why have the Democrats backed Kamala Harris?
Vice-President Kamala Harris's fast rise as the Democrats' nominee, potential strategies to shape her image for voters, controversies surrounding her, her stance on Gaza, and discussions on outsider candidates in politics and the influence of money in campaigns.
Jul 22, 2024 • 35min
Welcome to the Kamala Harris presidential campaign
Former chair of the Democrat's Congressional Campaign Committee, Steve Israel, discusses Kamala Harris's presidential campaign. They unpack her endorsements, chances against Trump, and why she's linked to coconut trees. Analyzing her communication style, fundraising success, and campaign challenges, the podcast explores the strategic aspects of Harris's campaign.
