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
18 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 33min
Americanswers on 5 Live! Why is Donald Trump threatening to sue the BBC for $1 billion?
President Trump is threatening to sue the BBC for $1 billion over an edited speech, sparking a heated discussion about media relations. The hosts analyze the differences between what Trump said and how it was portrayed. They dive into the implications of his ongoing battles with the press and the recent government shutdown's effects on ordinary citizens. Elon Musk's new platform aims to rival Wikipedia, raising questions about information control. The possibility of Barack Obama re-entering politics also ignites debate among the hosts.
18 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 46min
The Democrats are back… but will it last?
Jim Messina, an experienced political strategist and former deputy chief of staff to Barack Obama, shares his insights on the recent Democratic victories. He explores how Trump's low approval ratings influenced these wins and discusses shifting voter dynamics among young and Latino populations. Messina warns that while these triumphs are promising, they don't necessarily repair the party's broader brand issues. He emphasizes the importance of targeting varied candidates in challenging districts and highlights the potential impact of Gavin Newsom's redistricting efforts.
9 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 30min
Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayoral race
The recent New York mayoral victory of Zohran Mamdani, marking a historic moment as the first Muslim mayor, sets a hopeful tone for Democrats. His grassroots campaign struck a chord with diverse young voters, challenging traditional political dynamics. With promises focused on social justice and wealth redistribution, Mamdani's charisma has garnered attention even from former Trump supporters. The hosts explore political implications, including Republican reactions and broader shifts within the party, while celebrating Democratic wins in Virginia and New Jersey.
18 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 34min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Could Andrew answer Epstein questions before Congress?
The hosts delve into the elections in New York, Virginia, and New Jersey, analyzing upcoming mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's appeal and political stance. A fascinating discussion unfolds about potential congressional implications surrounding Prince Andrew and the Epstein files. Trump's recent comments about nuclear testing spark debate on the risks and public sentiment. They also explore shifting support for Trump within the Republican Party and examine polling trends revealing changing voter attitudes on various issues.
Oct 31, 2025 • 32min
Is Donald Trump building a ballroom or a bunker at the White House?
Katherine Sibley, a noted White House historian and First Lady specialist, joins the discussion about Trump's controversial decision to demolish the East Wing for a new ballroom. She explains the East Wing's historic significance and what its loss means for future First Ladies. The discussion weaves through public backlash, the potential influence of private tech donors, and the quirky conspiracy theories linking the ballroom to the presidential bunker. Sibley also reflects on how Melania Trump's low profile impacts the First Lady's role in this evolving landscape.
Oct 29, 2025 • 41min
Are the US and China about to end their trade war?
Karine Jean-Pierre, former White House press secretary and senior Biden administration adviser, discusses her book and the evolving Democratic Party. She criticizes Democrats for losing their fight for vulnerable communities and emphasizes the importance of standing firm on LGBTQ rights. Karine spotlights candidates like Zoran Mamdani who are redefining engagement strategies, while urging a focus on rebuilding democracy and civic participation. She raises concerns about accountability in upcoming elections and the risk of neglecting immediate challenges in favor of future distractions.
Oct 27, 2025 • 33min
Americanswers…on 5 Live! Will Kamala Harris (and Donald Trump) run for president again?
Attention is shifting toward the 2028 presidential race, with both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump aiming for another run. Discussing Trump’s potential plans for a third term raises questions about legal boundaries, while the demolition of the East Wing for a new ballroom sparks debates on funding and presidential authority. The impact of Iowa's primaries on Harris's prospects takes center stage, as historical comebacks and the current weaknesses of the Democratic Party are examined. The hosts also ponder the implications of Biden's presidency on Harris's future.
20 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 39min
Inside Mamdani’s campaign to be mayor of New York City
Eric Lach, a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected rise in the New York mayoral race. They discuss Mamdani's bold policies to tackle the cost of living, including proposals for increased housing and higher taxes on the wealthy. Lach sheds light on Mamdani's handling of past police comments and the potential fallout regarding his views on Israel and Gaza. With insights from his campaign trail, he assesses how Mamdani might navigate a possible clash with Donald Trump if elected.
Oct 22, 2025 • 27min
Does Trump really want to invade Venezuela?
Donald Trump’s targeting of Venezuela raises serious questions about military operations in the Caribbean. The hosts dive into the U.S. justification for strikes, scrutinizing claims of drug trafficking and terrorism. Political motives are unmasked, revealing a mix of propaganda and immigration politics. They examine the implications of possible land invasions and regional reactions, particularly from Colombia. The discussion also critiques Trump’s narrative of peace amidst rising aggression. Intriguing insights into international relations unfold.
18 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 34min
Americanswers… on 5 Live! How will Donald Trump respond to the ‘No Kings’ protests?
Millions protested against Trump’s expanding authority in major cities. The hosts analyze his initial response and the implications for future protests amidst concerns over safety and surveillance. Ukrainian President Zelensky's tense meeting at the White House highlights challenges in securing military support. Additionally, John Bolton's indictment raises questions about Trump's targeting of former officials. The episode ends with discussions on political artifacts that could define the future and a hot mic moment involving Trump and foreign leaders.
