

Americano
The Spectator
The next chapter in American politics has begun, but is it going to be any less crazy? The Spectator's Americano podcast delivers in-depth discussions with the best American pundits to keep you in the loop. Presented by Freddy Gray.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

21 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 37min
Is Trump on a roll?
In this engaging discussion, Kate Andrews, Deputy US editor at The Spectator, shares her insights on Donald Trump's recent diplomatic gains, including a notable Gaza peace plan. She humorously critiques Trump's 'Mean Girls style' in international relations and explores his potential financial support for Argentina's Javier Milei. Kate also touches on domestic challenges facing Trump, the disarray within the Democratic Party, and the intriguing implications of Trump's remarks on not being 'heaven bound.' A deep dive into contemporary political dynamics!

8 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 21min
Has Trump secured peace in the Middle East?
Dan DePetris, a foreign affairs columnist and fellow at Defence Priorities, joins to dissect Donald Trump's recent efforts in Middle East diplomacy. They discuss the implications of Trump's claims following the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. DePetris argues this is merely the first phase, highlighting Netanyahu's potential stonewalling and lack of a long-term strategy. They also evaluate Trump's fluctuating rhetoric on Iran, the risks of quick diplomatic deals, and the tension between his foreign achievements and domestic challenges.

30 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 28min
Is AI satanic?
Max Tegmark, an MIT professor and author renowned for his work in AI and physics, delves into the moral and spiritual dangers of artificial intelligence. He discusses how AI should be regarded as a tool rather than a master, addressing the rise of tech overlords in Silicon Valley. Tegmark also debunks the fear of a runaway AI race, emphasizing the need for regulation to prevent corporate overreach. The conversation touches on the complexities of using religious morals in secular legislation while exploring the implications of automation on human dignity.

Oct 9, 2025 • 26min
Does Pete Hegseth know what he's doing?
Christopher Caldwell, a columnist and author known for his insights on American politics and culture, joins to dissect Pete Hegseth's controversial remarks on military standards. They delve into the cultural shifts in the military, questioning the decline in fitness and the removal of DEI initiatives. Caldwell contrasts America’s martial spirit with British attitudes towards veterans. The discussion also touches on the legacy of 'don't ask, don't tell' and how political leadership shaped contemporary military policies, highlighting the significant changes under the current administration.

Oct 1, 2025 • 40min
Could Mamdani win through a 'conspiracy of cock ups'?
David Kaufman, a seasoned journalist and former New York Post editor, dives deep into the New York mayoral race dynamics, discussing Zohran Mamdani's rise and the impact of rival candidate missteps. They explore the complicated identity politics at play and Mamdani's positioning as the 'anti-Trump' candidate. Kaufman critiques media favoritism and the implications of Mamdani's claims about his identity. The conversation also highlights how local issues are being overshadowed by reactions to the war in Gaza and the potential fallout of Mamdani's candidacy on community relations.

Sep 30, 2025 • 22min
Professor Mearsheimer: why Trump’s ‘deal of the century’ won’t work
In this conversation, Professor John Mearsheimer, a leading political scientist, discusses the viability of Trump's Gaza peace plan. He examines the complex pressures facing Trump amid international conflicts and critiques the lack of Palestinian self-determination in the proposal. Mearsheimer argues that Hamas would reject the deal due to significant power dynamics and highlights the troubling use of the term 'genocide' concerning Gaza. He also analyzes the implications of this plan on U.S. foreign policy and potential Saudi-Israeli relations.

Sep 26, 2025 • 28min
Is James Comey going to jail?
Freddy Gray chats with Jacob Heilbrunn, Editor of the National Interest, about U.S. politics and the implications of James Comey’s recent indictment. They delve into Trump’s motivations and legal tactics, examining jurisdiction issues in Virginia. The conversation expands to discuss the overclassification of information in Washington and the potential repercussions for figures like John Bolton and the justice system under Trump's influence. They also explore fears about authoritarian tendencies in America and critique Tucker Carlson's latest series.

7 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 15min
Does paracetamol cause Autism?
In a thought-provoking discussion, Michael Simmons, economics editor at The Spectator, dives into the controversy sparked by Trump's comments on paracetamol and its potential link to autism. He clarifies that while some studies hint at a small association, the overall evidence remains conflicted. The rise in autism rates is examined, revealing more about diagnosis and awareness rather than just environmental causes. He emphasizes the need for cautious discourse, warning against alarmism while still stressing the importance of managing fever during pregnancy.

Sep 19, 2025 • 53min
Has Trump been taken over by Big Tech?
Oren Cass, chief economist at American Compass and editor of The New Conservatives, dives into Trump's recent UK visit promising tech investments. He questions whether the AI boom is genuine growth or just a bubble. Cass warns of the risks of tech concentration and explores how government investment can influence the market. He discusses the implications of tariffs and trade policies for reindustrialization and the need for a strong industrial strategy. The conversation also touches on Trumpism's effects and public sentiments during his trip.

4 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 38min
Inside Trump’s war on the cartels
Ben Domenech, a prominent American writer and co-founder of The Federalist, joins to discuss Trump's renewed war on drugs targeting Mexican cartels. He explains MAGA's strategic embrace of this fight and its potential impact on U.S.-Mexico relations. The conversation explores the Republican Party's shifting views on military involvement in combating cartels, revealing intra-party tensions. Furthermore, they delve into the broader geopolitical implications of American foreign policy and China's rising influence in Latin America.


