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.You can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
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.You can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 23, 2025 • 32min
Donald Trump’s mid-year review
Marc Short, former White House Legislative Affairs Director and a close aide to Mike Pence, joins the discussion to dissect Donald Trump's performance during the first six months of his second term. He analyzes the rapid pace of Trump's agenda, particularly on trade and immigration. The conversation dives into the economic impacts of tariffs and the geopolitical tensions involving NATO and Ukraine. Short also reflects on the changing dynamics within the Republican Party post-Trump, spotlighting internal conflicts and their implications for future candidates.
Jul 21, 2025 • 32min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Is Trump a better friend to Britain than Biden?
The hosts dive into the unique dynamics of US-UK relations, spotlighting Trump's upcoming visit to Scotland and contrasting him with Biden. They unravel the Epstein scandal's impact on Trump's loyal supporters, exploring the tension between loyalty and truth. Another fascinating topic is the move to lower the voting age to 16 in the UK, examining its potential effects on American politics. Additionally, they discuss the America Party and its possible disruption of the political landscape, all while addressing the role of social media in shaping today’s political discourse.
9 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 25min
Is Trump taking advice from his wife Melania on Ukraine?
Donald Trump's shifting rhetoric on Ukraine raises eyebrows regarding his ties to Putin and the possible influence of Melania on his stance. The discussion dives into the complexities of sanctions against Russia and how these changes might affect his base and Congressional Republicans. MAGA supporters reveal mixed feelings about U.S. involvement in Ukraine, illustrating the clash between nationalism and foreign policy. Additionally, the podcast touches on redistricting in Texas and the generational rift within the Democratic Party.
21 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 30min
Why can’t Donald Trump shake off the Epstein Files?
Donald Trump's attempts to distance himself from the Epstein scandal face increasing backlash from within the Republican Party. Prominent figures are demanding transparency, igniting conspiracy theories and deepening internal divides. Newly uncovered surveillance footage of Epstein raises questions and skepticism, adding to the political drama. The ongoing tension highlights the precarious balance Trump's political future hangs upon as he navigates these challenges with his supporters. Ultimately, public trust in his leadership is increasingly on the line.
12 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 25min
Donald Trump's BBC interview in full and the story behind it
Former President Donald Trump discusses his surprising phone interview with Gary O'Donoghue from the BBC, both waking him up and stirring political conversations. Trump reveals his complicated feelings about Putin, exclaiming he trusts 'almost nobody.' He talks of sending weapons to Ukraine while warning about potential tariffs on Russia. The conversation also touches on his support for NATO and the impact of a recent assassination attempt on his perspective. Humorous anecdotes illustrate the unpredictable nature of interviewing a sitting president.
5 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 30min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! Why has Trump changed his mind on Ukraine?
An exploration of Donald Trump's shifting stance on international affairs takes center stage, particularly his relationship with Ukraine and NATO. The podcast dives into the implications of his presence at the FIFA Club World Cup, questioning whether teams might boycott the upcoming World Cup in North America. The hosts also reflect on the ongoing feud with Rosie O'Donnell and the tangled web of tariffs affecting American consumers. Engaging listener feedback wraps up the discussion, bringing a community-focused touch to the complex political landscape.
18 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 28min
Trump’s NEW tariff threats.. should we take them seriously?
Faisal Islam, BBC Economics Editor and tariff expert, joins the discussion on the implications of Donald Trump's latest tariff threats. He critiques Trump's shifting deadlines and the unfulfilled promise of international deals. The conversation explores how these tariffs impact global trade relations, particularly with China and Brazil, and the economic repercussions for American consumers facing rising prices. Faisal also highlights the growing pushback from other nations against U.S. trade policies, suggesting a complex and evolving landscape ahead.
17 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 25min
Jeffrey Epstein is causing a Trump-MAGA rift
Tensions rise within Trump's MAGA base as revelations about Jeffrey Epstein's client list spark conspiracy theories. Discussion unfolds on the impact of these claims on loyalty and support for Trump. The podcast also tackles discontent over evolving foreign policy, especially regarding weapons to Ukraine. Insights are shared about Trump’s political landscape, exploring how conspiracies shape perceptions and the delicate balance of maintaining support amidst controversy. The complexities of political loyalty in changing times are examined, highlighting the challenges leaders face.
19 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 33min
Americanswers… did Trump’s funding cuts contribute to Texas floods deaths?
The podcast dives into the devastating flooding in Texas, highlighting the tragic loss of life and ongoing rescue efforts. It questions the role of funding cuts from the Trump administration in disaster preparedness. Discussions also unravel the rise of conspiracy theories surrounding the floods and the perceived neglect by leaders. The hosts analyze a contentious legislative bill adding $3.3 trillion to the national debt and its potential impact on healthcare. Plus, they explore Elon Musk's plan to form a third political party and its implications for the future of American politics.
9 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 38min
Is Trump deporting record numbers of migrants?
PJ Lechleitner, the former acting director of ICE, offers valuable insights into Trump's tough immigration stance and the heated battle with sanctuary cities like Los Angeles. He discusses the implications of federal policies on local jurisdictions and describes the tension between supporting undocumented migrants and enforcing immigration laws. The conversation also touches on controversial tactics in immigration raids and the potential for record deportations. Lechleitner highlights the complexities that intertwine community responses, political implications, and enforcement challenges.
