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
20 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 27min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! What next after US government shutdown?
The recent U.S. government shutdown marks a significant political crisis. How will it impact federal workers and the economy? Meanwhile, Donald Trump's peace proposal for Gaza sparks debate about its seriousness without Hamas's involvement. The discussion takes a turn as Trump critiques military standards, suggesting cities as potential training grounds. Concerns surface over the implications of using military forces domestically. The podcast unpacks these urgent topics with a blend of expertise and insight.
49 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 34min
Trump vs Comey (and the city of Portland)
A fiery political landscape unfolds as Trump’s Truth Social post incites calls for the prosecution of critics like former FBI director Comey, who now faces perjury charges. The hosts dissect the implications of Trump using the justice system for political revenge and analyze the tense situation in Portland. With federal troops potentially deployed, they evaluate the thin justifications for such moves and the longstanding tensions surrounding protests. They also explore who might be next on Trump's target list, drawing eerie parallels to historical abuses of power.
33 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 31min
Is America's health secretary RFK Jr a danger to public health?
Dr. Debra Houry, former chief medical officer at the CDC, shares her insights on the alarming public health implications of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s leadership. She reveals how political interference has affected vaccine policy, leading to her resignation. The podcast dives into RFK Jr.'s radical claims regarding Tylenol and autism, which have faced fierce backlash from the medical community. Houry also discusses the CDC's pandemic response mistakes and the rising tide of misinformation, leaving listeners questioning the agency's trustworthiness.
Sep 24, 2025 • 27min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Can we trust what Donald Trump says about Ukraine?
Donald Trump delivered a lengthy address at the UN, making sharp critiques of European nations and immigration. His statement about Ukraine regaining lost territory raises questions about his shifting stance on the conflict. The hosts delve into his attacks on the UN, and the public’s reaction to his controversial medical claims. Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel’s return adds to the heated debate around free speech and censorship in America, as major political events unfold. It's a lively mix of politics, controversy, and media scrutiny!
35 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 33min
MAGA’s “righteous fury” at Charlie Kirk’s memorial
The podcast dives into the memorial service for Charlie Kirk, blending political rallying and evangelical passion. Erika Kirk delivers a moving speech, emphasizing forgiveness while receiving immense support. The conversation explores whether MAGA leaders will leverage the tragedy to spark a religious revival against the left. There's a provocative debate on using such grief to influence legal reforms and media narratives. The episode raises questions about the future of the conservative movement and the role of faith in politics.
37 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 29min
Has Trump cancelled Jimmy Kimmel over Charlie Kirk?
Highlights include insights from Donald Trump's recent UK visit and a discussion on his relationship with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The hosts delve into the geopolitical implications of their talks on Gaza and Ukraine. A major talking point is ABC's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel after his remarks on the killing of Charlie Kirk, sparking a debate on free speech and the future of late-night television. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the press conference dynamics and the intersection of politics and media.
27 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 36min
What does Donald Trump want from his UK state visit?
As Donald Trump arrives for his second state visit to the UK, expect discussions on trade tensions and divisive topics like Gaza and Ukraine. The hosts delve into potential flashpoints, including the Jeffrey Epstein saga and political dynamics surrounding UK PM Keir Starmer. They also address the chilling effects on free speech in the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, with implications for Trump’s supporters and the MAGA movement. The contrast between the pomp of Windsor and the chaos back home paints a vivid picture of Trump's diplomatic challenges.
18 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 44min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Who is Tyler Robinson, Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer?
This week, Kim Darroch, former US Ambassador and key organizer of Donald Trump's first state visit, shares fascinating insights on high-stakes diplomacy. He discusses the meticulous planning behind state visits and the evolving political landscape following Charlie Kirk's shooting. The team analyzes Tyler Robinson's motives and the broader societal implications of the tragedy, exploring the cultural divide over gun violence between the US and the UK. It's a compelling conversation blending politics, media, and personal stories.
11 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 34min
Charlie Kirk's killing: A dangerous moment for America?
The shocking assassination of a well-known conservative activist sparks intense discussions about its ramifications for public safety and political dialogue. The hosts analyze Charlie Kirk's controversial influence on young voters and the incendiary rhetoric permeating modern political discourse. They also explore the emotional fallout among political leaders and the growing concerns over violent language in politics. The impact of this tragedy raises critical questions about identity, ideology, and the state of political engagement in America.
Sep 10, 2025 • 26min
How could a young Ukrainian's killing change the U.S?
A tragic murder in Charlotte, North Carolina, has sparked intense discussions about crime and public safety. The political implications are vast, as key figures exploit this narrative for their agendas. Family members plead for dignity amid the turmoil, raising important questions about media portrayal and racial dynamics. The debate also emphasizes how crime narratives influence political strategy and funding decisions in local communities, reflecting on the human cost of such political maneuvering.
