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
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.
Dec 21, 2025 • 39min
The Best Bits of Newscast's Podcast-a-Thon (Part Two)
Lyse Doucet, a Senior BBC correspondent and former Chief International Correspondent, calls in from Canada to share insights into her life and career. She discusses her home life and holiday preferences, revealing her connection to New Brunswick. Lyse reflects on the importance of being on the ground for storytelling in field journalism and dives into her Acadian roots. Her candid thoughts and experiences offer a captivating glimpse into the life of a seasoned journalist.
Dec 20, 2025 • 28min
The Best Bits of Newscast's Podcast-a-Thon (Part One)
Join paranormal expert Danny Robins as he unpacks the fascination with Victorian ghosts and modern sightings, including an intriguing 'hoodie' ghost. Satirist Armando Iannucci dives into the evolution of political language, examining the artful manipulation of phrases used by politicians. Additionally, Lisa Costello delivers a masterclass on the art of reading the shipping forecast, revealing its history and significance while guiding practices through its intricate structure. A captivating blend of the supernatural, satire, and maritime tradition!
24 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 36min
The Week: The State of British Politics in 2025
In this discussion, Ailbhe Rea, political editor at the New Statesman, and Tim Shipman, political editor at The Spectator, dive into the tumultuous landscape of British politics. They analyze the shaky leadership of Keir Starmer and the near-defeat of welfare reforms. The rise of insurgent parties like Reform and the Greens is highlighted, with Ailbhe noting how Farage's controversies haven't impacted his momentum. Tim emphasizes the importance of local elections and membership growth, while both offer predictions for the unpredictable year ahead.
20 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 34min
Is The Economy On The Up?
Asma Khalid is a US-based BBC correspondent and co-presenter of The Global Story, offering insights into US foreign policy, while Vanessa Buschschlüter is the BBC's Latin America and Caribbean editor focusing on Venezuela. They discuss escalating US-Venezuela tensions, including recent military actions and political roots of the crisis. Asma highlights the Trump administration's intensified pressure, while Vanessa examines oil's role in the conflict. The duo delves into the implications for international diplomacy and the potential for further escalation.
10 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 25min
Is The Erasmus Student Scheme Worth The Money?
Nick Thomas-Symonds, the UK Minister for the Constitution and EU Relations, delves into the government's ambitious return to the Erasmus study scheme, emphasizing its extensive benefits and scope. He addresses the controversial £570 million cost, defending its value and promising a thorough review. The discussion covers comparisons to the Turing scheme and alludes to future youth mobility initiatives. Additionally, insights into political dynamics arise as the new Unison leader Andrea Egan's election could reshape Labour's strategies under Keir Starmer.
10 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 37min
Are Foreign Countries Interfering in UK Politics?
Daniel Thomas, the Financial Times global media editor, and Caitríona Perry, a BBC journalist in Washington, dive into the UK's independent review into foreign financial interference following Nathan Gill's bribery case. They discuss alarming implications for democracy and calls for scrutiny of China's influence. The conversation shifts to Donald Trump's $5 billion lawsuit against the BBC over alleged defamation and edited statements from his January 6 speech. They analyze the legal complexities, the BBC's defense and how this reflects Trump’s history of suing media.
