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
Apr 22, 2024 • 32min
Trump Trial Day 1... Americanswers!
In this podcast, the hosts discuss the start of Donald Trump's first criminal trial, the jury selection process, and the influence of social media. They also delve into the challenges of jury selection, the impact of social media on high-profile cases, and the tragic consequences of online conspiracy theories. The episode also includes anecdotes about Kamala Harris, bipartisan cooperation in passing legislation, and the rare unity between Democrats and pro-Ukraine Republicans.
Apr 18, 2024 • 37min
Will the US send billions to Israel and Ukraine? And Christiane Amanpour is back!
Christiane Amanpour joins to discuss US aid to Israel and Ukraine, potential outcomes after thwarting an attack from Iran. Congress vote could cost Speaker Johnson his job amidst MAGA rebellion. Tensions in Middle East analyzed with focus on Biden's response and challenges.
Apr 15, 2024 • 41min
Megyn Kelly on Trump's Trial, Abortion and TV Debates
Donald Trump is no stranger to Megyn Kelly. The pair had a very public fallout in 2015 after the former Fox anchor questioned his temperament in a Republican Party debate.These days the pair are back on speaking terms, with Trump often choosing to do longer interviews with one of America’s most recognisable broadcasters.And on the day he became the first ever president to face a criminal trial, Megyn Kelly joins us to give her thoughts on how much the trial could affect the outcome of November’s election, the Democrat’s strategy to beat him, and whether we might see a televised debate between the candidates.HOSTS:
• Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
• Sarah Smith, North America editorGUEST:
• Megyn Kelly, journalist and host of the Megyn Kelly Show podcastGET IN TOUCH:
• Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB
• Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480
• Email Americast@bbc.co.uk
• Or use #AmericastUS Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s new BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155 This episode was made by George Dabby with Catherine Fusillo, Claire Betzer and Natasha Mayo. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The series producer is George Dabby. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Apr 12, 2024 • 35min
Has Abortion Eclipsed Trump’s Campaign?
Exploring Trump's evolving views on abortion and the backlash from Republicans. Analyzing the impact of abortion politics on the upcoming election. Discussing burner phones, social media tactics, and the changing political landscape. Delving into the challenges Republicans face post-Roe v. Wade. Previewing 'The Fall of Row' book release and a solar eclipse experience. Reflecting on Trump's disregard for eclipse safety norms and his unconventional politics.
Apr 11, 2024 • 18min
The Life and Death of OJ Simpson
Former NFL running back and Hollywood star OJ Simpson reflects on his infamous murder trial. The podcast explores the trial's racial tensions, media frenzy, and societal impact. Hosts share personal experiences from the time, providing insights into the lasting legacy of the case.
Apr 8, 2024 • 39min
Americanswers: Trump Diplomacy, NPR and How Do Algorithms REALLY work?
Former DHS Chief of Staff and a Former U.S. Representative answer listener queries about Trump's foreign policy, social media influence, and challenges of bridging political divides. Discussions include algorithms, media bias, and the impact of Trump's presidency on international stability.
Apr 4, 2024 • 35min
Could the Israel-Gaza war cost Biden the election?
Joe Biden and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on Thursday for the first time since the killing of seven aid workers in Gaza this week. Netanyahu has called the incident an “unintended strike”, but the White House has said it’s ‘outraged’.Back home, US policy toward the Gaza war is causing problems for the president. A growing campaign of voters are using their ballot to protest Biden’s handling of the crisis.Jeremy Bowen joins us from Jerusalem to assess whether the US/Israel relationship has ever been this strained and we assess how Joe Biden can deal with the domestic ramifications of the war ahead of the 2024 election.HOSTS:
• Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
• Anthony Zurcher, North America correspondent
• Katty Kay US Special CorrespondentGUEST:
• Jeremy Bowen, International EditorGET IN TOUCH:
• Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB
• Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480
• Email Americast@bbc.co.uk
• Or use #Americast Find out more about our award-winning “undercover voters” here: bbc.in/3lFddSF. US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s new BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155 This episode was made by Chris Flynn with Rufus Gray, Catherine Fusillo, Claire Betzer and Natasha Mayo. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The series producer is George Dabby. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Apr 1, 2024 • 38min
Americanswers: How vulnerable is Trump, does Biden have an image problem and will Russia interfere in the election?
The Americast team answers live questions on Trump's legal battles, voter biases, and foreign policy approaches. They discuss social media influence, deception, and potential interference in the election by Russia.
Mar 28, 2024 • 39min
Vice, Vice, Baby: Who’ll Be Trump’s Running Mate?
As the election comes closer into view, potential candidates are lining up to be on the ticket with Donald Trump in 2024. After former Veep Mike Pence rules himself out, Americast assembles to answer FAQs about who makes the shortlist and why. Plus, what makes a good VP anyway? And what do they actually do? Find out in the latest Americast.HOSTS:
• Sarah Smith, North America editor
• Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter
• Anthony Zurcher, North America correspondent GET IN TOUCH:
• Join our online community: https://discord.gg/qSrxqNcmRB
• Send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp to +44 330 123 9480
• Email Americast@bbc.co.uk
• Or use #Americast Find out more about our award-winning “undercover voters” here: bbc.in/3lFddSF. US Election Unspun: Sign up for Anthony’s new BBC newsletter: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-68093155 This episode was made by Chris Flynn with Rufus Gray, Catherine Fusillo, and Claire Betzer. The technical producer was Emma Crowe. The series producer is George Dabby. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Mar 26, 2024 • 25min
Major Baltimore Bridge Collapses
Dr Stergios Aristoteles, Head of Structural Engineering at a prominent university, discusses the tragic Baltimore bridge collapse. Topics include structural engineering aspects, aging infrastructure challenges, and the impact on the local community and economy. The podcast explores the urgency of investigating the causes of the collapse and the broader implications for American safety standards and infrastructure.
