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
Jan 15, 2026 • 34min
Badenoch sacks Jenrick!
Joining the discussion are Henry Zeffman, Chief Political Correspondent known for his insights into UK party politics, and Alex Forsyth, a Westminster correspondent with sharp commentary skills. They delve into Kemi Badenoch's shocking dismissal of Robert Jenrick, framing it as a power play within the Conservative Party. The duo examines the implications of the sacking on Jenrick's political future, potential defection rumors, and the reaction from parties like Reform UK and Labour. Memes and public responses add a lighthearted twist to the serious political turbulence.
23 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 29min
Another Labour U-Turn
Danny Shaw, a policing and home affairs commentator, delves into the West Midlands Police controversy surrounding the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban. He critiques the force's reliance on flawed research and discusses the implications of AI in policing. The conversation also shifts to Labour's recent U-turns, including Keir Starmer's backtracking on mandatory digital IDs, revealing frustrations among Labour MPs. As public confidence wanes, Shaw highlights the need for clear leadership in the face of political reversals.
9 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 29min
Trump Tells Iran Protestors “HELP IS ON ITS WAY”
Siavash Ardalan, a senior reporter for BBC World and BBC Persian, offers insider insights on the escalating protests in Iran amid a state-imposed internet blackout. He discusses the violent crackdown, with reports of mass killings and differing death toll estimates. Siavash explains how the Iranian regime organizes counter-demonstrations and how verification work is conducted during chaos. The podcast also dissects Trump's provocative 'help is on its way' message, analyzing what it could mean for Iran's future and U.S. foreign policy.
21 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 38min
The Sadiq Khan Interview
Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London and former MP, joins the discussion to defend London's safety, highlighting the drop in homicide rates. He addresses the challenges posed by critics like Trump, emphasizing the city's enduring strengths. Khan advocates for better social media regulation, pointing out its benefits and harms, and calls for stricter online safety measures. He also discusses the importance of aligning with the EU for trade, considering its implications for both the UK and U.S. deals.
Jan 11, 2026 • 36min
The Peter Mandelson Interview Analysis
Peter Mandelson breaks his silence in a revealing interview, discussing his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein and the fallout from his sacking as US ambassador. He claims ignorance while refusing to apologize for his friendship with Epstein. The panel debates the implications of his statements and the embarrassment faced by Number 10. They also explore Mandelson's views on Trump and European defense, and the political landscape surrounding social media regulations for minors. The conversation hints at future coalition dynamics and potential shifts in Scottish politics.
10 snips
Jan 11, 2026 • 31min
The Peter Mandelson Interview
Peter Mandelson, a former British cabinet minister and US ambassador, opens up about his controversial past and views on modern politics. He discusses his sacking due to links with Jeffrey Epstein, expressing regret over his misplaced loyalty. Mandelson shares insights on Trump’s negotiation style and the need for robust European defense spending. He critiques the moral outrage surrounding Epstein while emphasizing systemic failures. Mandelson also reflects on lessons from Iraq and offers cautious support for Keir Starmer amid challenging times for Labour.
9 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 33min
Is This The Beginning of the End for the Iranian Government?
In this discussion, Sir Lawrence Freedman, a historian and Professor of War Studies at King's College London, explores the unrest in Iran, suggesting the regime may be on the verge of collapse due to economic turmoil and fractured authority. He connects current events in Iran to historical patterns, like the 1979 revolution, and explains the complexities of international crises, including tensions involving Trump and Venezuela. Freedman also highlights challenges the UK faces in defense spending and the impact of shifting global alliances.
18 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 37min
The Week: How Does Starmer Handle Trump, Grok and What's Going On In Iran?
Lyse Doucet, BBC chief international correspondent, shares her insights on the ongoing anti-government protests in Iran sparked by economic turmoil. She highlights how President Trump's warnings may have tempered Iran's security forces' response. Doucet also discusses the everyday resilience of Iranians amid the unrest. In UK politics, the panel analyzes Keir Starmer's pragmatic approach to Trump and the internal tensions within Labour, alongside concerns over defence spending and the cost-of-living crisis.
Jan 8, 2026 • 28min
Everything We Know About The Minneapolis ICE Shooting…So Far
In this discussion, Anthony Zurcher, a BBC North America correspondent, sheds light on ICE's role and the Trump administration's responses to the shooting incident. Eyewitness Madeline Halpert recounts the chaotic scene in Minneapolis and the emotional local reactions following the tragic death of Renee Nicole Good. Simon Jack shifts gears to discuss a significant U-turn on business rates for pubs, exploring the economic implications and political fallout. This vibrant conversation weaves together national turmoil and local heartbreak.
Jan 7, 2026 • 37min
US-Venezuela: Russian-Flagged Tanker Seized By US Military
Jeremy Bowen, BBC International Editor, shares insights on the recent US seizure of a Russian-flagged tanker tied to Venezuelan oil, raising questions about US-Russia tensions reminiscent of the Cold War. Michelle Wiese Bockmann, a maritime intelligence analyst, dives into sanctions enforcement and the shadows of tanker reflagging. Faisal Islam, BBC Economics Editor, discusses his visit to Google's quantum computing lab, unraveling its revolutionary potential and the geopolitical stakes involved in this technological race.
