Newscast
BBC News
The BBC's daily news podcast, Newscast dives into the day's biggest news 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 news, developments in politics in Westminster and beyond.Newscast is hosted by trusted politics and news 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 #BBCNewscastYou can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
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 #BBCNewscastYou can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 53min
Live at Edinburgh Fringe: Why is Trump talking about actress Sydney Sweeney?
Sarah Smith, a seasoned journalist and former BBC News Washington correspondent, joins James Cook, BBC News' Scotland Editor, for a lively discussion from the Edinburgh Fringe. They dive into the surreal experience of covering Donald Trump and the chaotic energy of media reporting. The conversation touches on Trump's eyebrow-raising comments about nuclear submarines and the cultural impact of celebrity endorsements, particularly focusing on a controversial commercial. Humor and politics intertwine as they explore Scottish identity and the challenges of live broadcasting.
9 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 56min
Live at Edinburgh Fringe: Brian Cox and James Graham!
Brian Cox, a celebrated Scottish actor known for his extensive film and stage work, joins forces with James Graham, a British playwright famous for his political dramas. Together, they dive into reimagining the 2008 financial crisis for the stage, with Brian portraying economist Adam Smith's ghost. Their conversation also touches on the impact of Storm Floris on the festival and tackles the rising ticket prices at the Edinburgh Fringe, emphasizing the need for greater accessibility in theater.
Aug 2, 2025 • 31min
Old Newscast: The Expenses Scandal, 2009 (Part 2)
In this engaging discussion, journalist Chris Hope, known for his work on the MP expenses scandal, joins BBC's Jo Coburn, a seasoned political reporter. They delve into the scandal’s aftermath, revealing how it shattered public trust in politicians. Topics include intense scrutiny of MPs, the push for greater transparency, and the role of social media in reshaping political journalism. Hope and Coburn reflect on the scandal’s lasting effects on accountability in politics and how it sparked a transformative shift in British political culture.
9 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 43min
Old Newscast: The Expenses Scandal, 2009 (Part 1)
Chris Hope, political editor at GB News and former Whitehall editor at The Telegraph, joins Jo Coburn, a seasoned journalist and broadcaster, to delve into the explosive MPs' expenses scandal of 2009. They discuss the dramatic leak that revealed questionable expense claims and changed public trust in politics. Hear about the 'John Lewis List,' the absurdity of claims like the duck house, and the intense backlash MPs faced. This conversation reveals how financial mismanagement led to a political crisis and a demand for accountability.
8 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 33min
The Battle For Car Finance Compensation
Dharshini David, Deputy Economics Editor at the BBC, and Theo Leggett, BBC's International Business Correspondent, discuss a landmark Supreme Court ruling impacting car finance compensation. They analyze the court's finding that lenders aren't bound to prioritize customer interests, shifting the landscape for consumers. The conversation dives into the secrecy of commission payments and its implications for consumer rights. Additionally, the duo examines President Trump's increasing tariffs and their potential ripple effects on global markets.
8 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 23min
Trump v Carney (Again)
Gary O’Donoghue, Chief North America Correspondent, joins the discussion on Canada recognizing a Palestinian state and the diplomatic repercussions it has with the U.S. The podcast dives into Trump's fierce response and its potential fallout on trade deals. O'Donoghue unpacks Canada's geopolitical struggles at the UN while addressing varied international reactions. The chat humorously contrasts the serious nature of politics with pop culture, highlighting the amusing intersections between celebrity news and political life.
10 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 29min
Tsunami Warnings Across the Pacific
Rebecca Bell, an expert in tectonics from Imperial College London, joins to discuss the massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off Russia's coast. Shaimaa Khalil, the BBC’s Tokyo Correspondent, shares live updates, highlighting significant evacuations in Japan. Victoria Gill, BBC Science Correspondent, explains tsunami formation and the mechanics involved. The conversation also touches on advancements in tsunami warning systems and urban safety in earthquake-prone regions, stressing the importance of disaster preparedness.
17 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 34min
The UK’s (Conditional) Plan To Recognise A Palestinian State
Alex Forsyth, a BBC News expert, sheds light on the UK's conditional plan to recognize a Palestinian state, linking it to Israel's actions for peace. Lyse Doucet offers insights into the implications for international relations amid ongoing humanitarian crises. David Miliband, former British Foreign Secretary and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, discusses the dire aid situation in Gaza, warning of famine and proposing urgent solutions. The conversation encapsulates the complex interplay of diplomacy and humanitarian needs in the region.
8 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 29min
Trump Welcomes Starmer To Scotland
Sarah Smith, BBC's North America editor, and James Cook, Scotland editor, dive into the intriguing meeting between Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland. They discuss Trump's bold claims about negotiating a ceasefire in Gaza and reducing the deadline for Ukraine's deal. The conversation also highlights the peculiar backdrop of a golf course for such serious discussions, blending politics with Trump's business interests. Their insights provide a captivating look at the ongoing tensions and dynamics surrounding these international events.
Jul 26, 2025 • 29min
Old Newscast: Nelson Mandela Is Released From Prison, 1990 (Part 2)
Fergal Keane, a former Southern Africa correspondent who reported on Nelson Mandela’s release, and Milton Nkosi, a former BBC Africa bureaux editor, delve into the momentous day of February 11, 1990. They discuss the immense hope tied to Mandela’s freedom and the complex challenges that followed, including violence and the push for democracy. Personal stories highlight the emotional weight of South Africa’s transition and Mandela’s enduring legacy of forgiveness and reconciliation in a nation still grappling with the past.
