Newscast
BBC News
The BBC's daily news podcast, Newscast dives into the day's big stories so you're never out of your depth.Newscast picks the brains of BBC News experts so you're ready if someone picks yours, covering the latest developments in politics in Westminster and beyond.Newscast is hosted by trusted journalists including Adam Fleming, BBC Political Editor Chris Mason, Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.Catch Newscast seven-days a week and watch on BBC One at 23:40 on Thursday night or later on BBC iPlayer. GET IN TOUCH:
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastNewscast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Newscast also makes lots of other podcasts, including The Global Story, The Today Podcast, and of course Americast and Ukrainecast. If you enjoy Newscast (and if you're reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below.Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz
Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm
Radical: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastNewscast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Newscast also makes lots of other podcasts, including The Global Story, The Today Podcast, and of course Americast and Ukrainecast. If you enjoy Newscast (and if you're reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below.Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz
Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm
Radical: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
Episodes
Mentioned books
20 snips
Jan 4, 2026 • 34min
Who’s in charge of Venezuela now? + Keir Starmer interview analysis
The discussion delves into the shifting power dynamics in Venezuela, highlighting Delcy Rodríguez's interim presidency and the U.S. operations against Maduro. Insights reveal Western allies' cautious reactions amid legal debates. The podcast also analyzes Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent interview, reflecting on his popularity struggles and foreign policy ambitions. There are hints at closer EU alignment and a debate on Labour’s electoral strategy in a post-Brexit landscape. The implications of these developments for international norms and future elections are explored.
14 snips
Jan 4, 2026 • 46min
The Keir Starmer 2026 Interview
Keir Starmer, the Leader of the UK Labour Party and Prime Minister, opens up about the coming year and his optimistic vision for 2026. He addresses public frustrations, showcasing government achievements and defending his mandate. Starmer highlights strides in economic growth, including wage increases and business investment. He discusses the UK's future relationship with the EU, advocating for sector-specific alignment and a youth mobility scheme. Plus, he tackles the complexities of asylum policies and the need for a pragmatic approach to international relations.
43 snips
Jan 3, 2026 • 33min
Trump strikes Venezuela, captures the President, and says the US will take over
Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, shares her insights on the US military action in Venezuela and the dramatic capture of President Nicolás Maduro. She discusses Trump's declaration to 'run' the country and implications for international law. The conversation delves into the historical context of US interventions, Maduro's controversial past, and the potential risks this sets for global norms. Doucet emphasizes the unpredictability of Trump's decisions and the challenges of establishing a stable governance in Venezuela amid international scrutiny.
Jan 2, 2026 • 38min
Old Newscast: How Donald Trump Won The Republican Nomination 2016 (Part 2)
Caitriona Perry, chief presenter for the BBC in Washington, and political reporter Anthony Zurcher, delve into Donald Trump's unconventional journey to the 2016 Republican nomination. They explore how his unique debate style captivated voters while rivals like Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio faltered. The discussion highlights Trump's rallies as crucial tools for refining his message and connecting authentically with supporters. They also touch on the failed attempts by party elites to thwart Trump and the dynamics of the Republican establishment during a tumultuous election.
Dec 31, 2025 • 29min
Old Newscast: How Donald Trump Won The Republican Nomination 2016 (Part 1)
Join Caitriona Perry, a seasoned political correspondent, and Anthony Zurcher, a BBC journalist, as they delve into the surprising rise of Donald Trump during the 2016 Republican primaries. They discuss the pivotal moment of Trump's escalator announcement and how his celebrity status from 'The Apprentice' gave him an edge. The duo examines why commentators initially dismissed him and how his showmanship, including memorable campaign stunts, played a crucial role in capturing attention and support within the party.
Dec 30, 2025 • 34min
Old Newscast: How Jeremy Corbyn Won The Labour Leadership 2015 (Part 2)
Jane Merrick, a seasoned political journalist, and Nick Watt, former chief political correspondent, dive into Jeremy Corbyn's surprising rise in the 2015 Labour leadership contest. They discuss how Corbyn remarkably secured the necessary nominations, defying early skepticism from MPs. The duo highlights the energizing grassroots support, large rally attendance, and how Corbyn's authenticity resonated with voters amidst a media environment favoring slick campaigns. They also reflect on the unexpected fallout from Tony Blair's comments, which ultimately bolstered Corbyn's popularity.
Dec 29, 2025 • 31min
Old Newscast: How Jeremy Corbyn Won The Labour Leadership 2015 (Part 1)
Jane Merrick, a political journalist and former political editor of The Independent on Sunday, recounts the 2015 Labour leadership contest. She discusses the chaos following Ed Miliband’s resignation and how Jeremy Corbyn surprised many by entering the race. The change in voting rules facilitated wider participation and led to unforeseen debates within the party. Merrick also reflects on Corbyn's grassroots support and the critical moment when he secured enough nominations, setting the stage for his unexpected victory.
13 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 52min
The Newscast Review of the Year 2025
Faisal Islam, BBC Economics Editor, dives into the global economic fallout from Trump's tariff policies, revealing the immediate shock to markets and long-term implications on trade. Jeremy Bowen, BBC International Editor, shares insights on major international events, including a groundbreaking ceasefire in Gaza and the complexities of US foreign policy under Trump. The duo also reflects on the shifting political landscape in the UK, marked by the rise of new parties like Reform UK and the Green Party.
4 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 25min
The Epstein Files And "The Invisible Man"
Sumi Somaskanda, BBC News chief presenter in Washington, dives into the latest revelations from the Department of Justice regarding the Epstein files. She highlights a troubling email from someone asking Ghislaine Maxwell for 'inappropriate friends,' raising eyebrows about connections to Balmoral. Sumi also discusses the implications of flight records linking Donald Trump to Epstein’s jet. Furthermore, she explains the bipartisan push for transparency that led to these staggering document releases, offering keen insights into ongoing debates around accountability.
Dec 22, 2025 • 32min
The Labour Deputy Leader Interview
Lucy Powell, the Labour Party's Deputy Leader and former Leader of the House of Commons, shares insights on her new role and the path forward for Labour. She discusses unity within the party, highlighting the importance of cooperation to regain public trust. Powell also outlines upcoming policy changes set for 2026, such as living wages and improved renters' rights. Delving into the political landscape, she addresses challenges from the Reform party and confidently predicts that Keir Starmer will still be Prime Minister by next Christmas.
