Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
300 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 559 ratingsIndependent Americans is a weekly news show hosted by Paul Rieckhoff. He’s a fighter, a patriot, and an independent political and media force to be reckoned with. After serving as a soldier in Iraq in 2004, Rieckhoff emerged as one of the most dynamic political and social leaders in America. In every episode, he breaks down the most important issues facing our country. And he interviews the most influential and compelling people. He’s taking on Republicans, Democrats—and everyone in between. If you’re in the angry middle, Independent Americans reminds you that you’re not alone. We’re all in this together. Join the Independent Americans movement and subscribe now. Produced by Righteous Media.
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Episodes
274. Ken Burns. How Sick is America? Who is He Voting For and Why? Is HE Fearful of a Civil War? Transactional vs Transformational. Social Media, Cable News and the State of our National Conversation. The Heroes of Today.
March 28, 2024 07:01 - 45 minutesFew people have studied America and what it means to be an American more and at a deeper level than our guest in this one. He has dedicated his life to documenting the stories of the people, the history and the cultures that have shaped us all. And as we enter what is one of the most tumultuous years of our collective lives, it’s a good moment to take a bead, catch our breaths and get some perspective. Ken Burns (@KenBurns) returns to the show to break it all down with your host, Paul Rieckho...
273. A Week Of Real Talk and Reckonings. Afghanistan. Trump. Ukraine. Netanyahu. Crime In America. RFK Jr’s Latest Ridiculous VP Name. March Madness in Our Politics.
March 21, 2024 07:01 - 28 minutesThis week, it’s time for real talk. Overdue real talk. On America’s terrible withdrawal from Afghanistan. On accountability for those failures that resulted in the 13 American servicemembers dying at Abbey Gate. On the fragile independent brand. On disgraced New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez considering running as an independent (Yes, really). On newly self-proclaimed independent Robert Kennedy Jr’s latest wild pick for his VP slot. On Senator Schumer’s tough comments on Netanyahu and Israel. O...
272. Breaking Down Kennedy, Aaron Rodgers, Jesse “The Body” Ventura, South By Southwest and All The Other Recent Independent Drama.
March 14, 2024 07:01 - 25 minutesIn case you missed it, newly-self-proclaimed independent RFK Jr. floated some VP names. Aaron Rodgers and Jesse Ventura. Exactly what the independent movement does NOT need. And our Paul Rieckhoff is going to dig into why. He’ll also share the backstory behind why Kennedy’s involvement in a scheduled panel at the South By Southwest conference on independents led to its implosion. This episode was supposed to be a recording of that panel–but that’s changed. And you’ll hear the full story. And...
271. State of the Union Special Edition. How Did Biden Do? Did He Move Independents? Dissecting The Big Night From Cannabis to Ukraine to Veterans to Forgotistan.
March 08, 2024 21:20 - 15 minutesWelcome to a special State of the Union recap special edition episode of Independent Americans. Normally, the State of the Union address is a civics lesson, pageantry and performance. Normally, it doesn’t move the needle. But last night was different. It was the most important SOTU in a generation. Voters were watching. Including millions who are still on the fence. And especially independent Americans. And so was Paul Rieckhoff. He’s been a guest at the State of the Union himself twice. A...
270. Tim Mak. Ukraine at a Crossroads. Has Ukraine Given Up on America? The Battle of Antonov Airfield. Haley is Out. Sinema is Out Too. Super Tuesday Was Not Super for 6M Independents. America Says Biden is Too Old. SecDef Austin’s Rough Time.
March 07, 2024 08:01 - 54 minutesWelcome to Independent Americans. And welcome to March. The weather is changing. It’s warming up and spring is so close you can almost smell it. But instead you’re probably smelling something different in the air. Something a lot less pleasant. It’s a smell that’s always been pervasive in Washington, DC and also on television and the airwaves. But in the last couple of years the smell has gotten out of control. It’s everywhere. It comes out of random strangers at random times. You can’t esca...
269 Michael Steele. Michigan & South Carolina Primary Insights. Where Will Haley Voters Go? Being the only Republican Host on MSNBC. Does Biden Have a Harris Problem? More Congressional Chaos. Will RFK Jr & No Labels Spoil Everything?
February 29, 2024 08:01 - 1 hourThe story that remains underreported is how much Trump ISN’T getting. He’s a freight train as nominee—but still NOT getting 30%. AND, he’s continuing to struggle with moderates in his own party and especially with independents (as revealed most vividly in New Hampshire). It continues to underscore his general election weakness. Which is revealed (AND increasing) with Haley in. And on the other side, Biden is inevitable—but failing with 15% of “uncommitted” protest votes AGAINST him. And anot...
268. Will Anyone Listen to Independents in 2024? A Special Short Episode with Paul Rieckhoff.
February 22, 2024 08:01 - 9 minutesThis episode is a little different. It’s a quick hit episode from host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff)--with a reading of his recent op-ed that appeared on Smerconish.com (co-authored with John Opdycke(@jbopdycke, the President of Open Primaries). It highlights the influence of independent voters in the New Hampshire primary, making specific note of independent’s support of candidates Nikki Haley and Dean Phillips. While neither candidate won their primary, their performance underscored the c...
267 Asha Rangappa. Is Trump Going to Jail or Not? What Did The Hur Report Really Say About Biden? MAGA vs NATO, Ukraine and More. Russia’s Secret Space Nukes. Long Island’s Special Election Takeaways. Best Super Bowl Ever. The Tragic Parade Shooting.
February 15, 2024 08:01 - 41 minutesThe Super Bowl is over and the Chiefs are the champs. MAGA is sad about that for some reason, but don’t worry they’ll have something new to be upset about soon enough. From mysterious new Russian space nukes, to Biden’s old age to another looming government shutdown. It’s a lot. And then throw Trump’s 91 felony indictments on top of that and it’s nearly impossible to keep track of. But never fear vigilant listener, we’ve got just the answer. An expert in all things law, Trump and national sec...
266. Matt Gallagher. Super Bowl Politics. How F#cked Up is America Right Now? Speaker Johnson is a Terrible Quarterback. Border Bill Fumble. Haley is QB2. Is the US Soft? SC and NV Primaries. Civil War or World War? Daybreak: Matt’s Powerful New Novel.
February 08, 2024 08:01 - 1 hourIt’s Super Bowl week in America. And it’s a Super Bowl year of politics and national security. And as the world focuses on America’s big game, it’s also focused on America’s dysfunction. And so are we. The border deal has collapsed, funding for Ukraine and Israel is stalled, and the election division across the country is reaching peak levels of nasty and stupid. It’s an especially ugly time in America–as America again thrusts itself in the global spotlight. But there are glimmers of hope–and...
265. Alex Vindman. Three US Troops Killed in Jordan. Ukraine is Running Out of Ammo—as America Runs Out of Heart. Is War with Iran Imminent? Vindman vs Marco Rubio? The Taylor Swift Super Bowl is Set.
February 01, 2024 08:01 - 55 minutesIt’s Super Bowl time in America. And 2024 is a year-long Super Bowl FOR America. Stakes have never been higher. And just like for a Super Bowl team, leaders will be the difference. And Alex Vindman (@AVindman) has been a QB for America stepping up in the biggest moments for years now. He was thrust onto the national scene back in October of 2019 as the news was revealed that Trump had tried to shake down the then unknown President of Ukraine. A brave whistle blower stood his ground and held ...
264. Michael Smerconish. New Hampshire Post-Mortem. Jason Kelce for President!? Haley’s Independent Appeal & Playing for QB2. Who Trump Might Pick for VP. Dean Phillips: Blah. The 2024 Wild Cards: RFK Jr, No Labels & Independents. Super Bowl Predictions!
January 25, 2024 08:01 - 40 minutesThe New Hampshire primary is over–and independents were a huge factor. Just as they will be in the general election in November. Who did they vote for? What do they care about? And who can appeal to them now—and in the future? And what’s next for Nikki Haley, Trump, Biden and the rest in this chaotic sprint to the summer nominating conventions? Michael Smerconish (@Smerconish is back on IA to chop it up with Paul on all that. And, to rip into Jason Kelce’s shirtless emergence as America’s man...
263. Surviving October 7. Dorin Cohen. Survivor of Kibbutz Kfar Aza. A Young Mother Courageously Tells Her Unimaginable and Harrowing Story. Remembering the Hostages Still Being Held by Hamas. “I’m going to tell you a story about heaven…”
January 23, 2024 08:01 - 31 minutesContent warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence, combat, death, sexual assault, violence against children and more. Dorin Cohen grew up in Ashkelon, Israel and most recently lived in Kibbutz Kfar Aza with her husband, Itamar, and her two young boys, Adam and Jonathan, where they survived nearly 30 hours in their bomb shelter on October 7. Dorin has a Bachelor's degree in Law from Ono Academic College and is currently pursuing an advanced studies degree in Child Development a...
262. Mike Novogratz & Ambassador Marc Ginsberg. Understanding Israel. And Gaza. A Recorded Live Panel Event from NYC. What They Saw On Their Recent Trip. Why They Went. Why Israel is Important to American National Security. What’s the Path Forward?
January 18, 2024 08:01 - 58 minutesAmbassador Marc Ginsberg grew up in Israel, became America’s first jewish ambassador to an Arab nation, and currently leads The Coalition for a Safer Web, a non-profit dedicated to combating cyber terrorism and extremist incitement. He’s a diplomatic powerhouse and deeply respected expert on the Middle East. Mike Novogratz grew up catholic in Virginia, served as a helicopter pilot in the US Army, was formerly President of Fortress Investment Group, and is now the Founder and CEO of Galaxy Dig...
261. Scott Galloway. Prof G’s Predictions for 2024. The United States vs Itself. Young People Being Left Behind. Reinvest in the Middle Class. SECDEF in the ICU, White House in the Dark. Attacks on US Troops Continue. Trump Mocks McCain Again.
January 11, 2024 08:01 - 57 minutesAs we head into what is almost sure to be a rocky 2024, we wanted to get you the best look ahead possible. So we brought back a fan favorite. A guest who isn’t afraid to make bold predictions. And a guest who’s smart enough to back them up. He’s a master of marketing, business, media and politics. He’s the great Prof G, Scott Galloway (@ProfGalloway), and he’s here to break down what the next few months will look like and why the market’s cause for concern might be a reason for you to be opti...
260. Mayor Yemi Mobolade. New Year’s Special Replay. The New Independent Mayor of Colorado Springs. How He Won. The Importance of Non-Partisan Primaries. Power of Positivity. Captain Positivity vs Senator Redneck for Space Command.
January 04, 2024 08:01 - 39 minutes2023 has been a big year for independents. And most of the time not in a good way. From Kyrsten Sinema to RFK Jr. to No Labels, 2023 was a steady succession of negative hits to the independent brand in all of the usual ways. Spoilers and grifters jumping on the bandwagon after being kicked off of all of the other wagons. Hangers on. Pretenders to the throne. Whatever you call them, we saw them all in 2023. And yet, there was one bright spot. A beacon shining in the dark night. A reason for ho...
259. Jason Alexander. The FOURTH Annual Festivus Special! An Inspiring Holiday Message of Hope and Peace. Looking to Children as the Way Out of Conflict. Jason vs Elon. Good vs Evil. Don’t Be the Problem, Solve the Problem.
December 28, 2023 08:01 - 59 minutesIf you’ve watched him, you love him. And you may feel like you know him. But you really don’t. In this episode, you’ll learn that the man behind the characters is even more amazing. And you’ll love him, respect him, and admire him even more. Just like the last three times he’s joined us. It’s the perfect holiday conversation. For whatever holiday you celebrate. Yes, my friends, FESTIVUS is back! A Festivus for the rest of us. And so is our annual Festivus special! With the man himself! The...
258. General David Petraeus. A Pre-Christmas Global Conflict Breakdown. Zelensky is Churchill with an iPhone. Did Israel Get the Big Idea Right? Tuberville’s Final Stupid Holds Go Down. NORAD is Ready For Santa.
December 21, 2023 08:01 - 37 minutesThere are only a handful of people out there that have the experience, credibility and gravitas to speak with authority when it comes to subjects like NATO, Putin, Gaza. They’re high level issues and complex systems that require decades of study and thought to truly comprehend. And so when you get a chance to hear from one of them like you did last week with General Barry McCaffrey you jump at it. When you get a chance to talk with another one a week later… you better bet we’re jumping again....
257. General Barry McCaffrey. Analyzing The State of the Wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Biden’s Big Border Problem. Zelensky’s Painful Return to Washington. Israel’s Greatest Test. More Rocket Attacks on US Troops. Does America Look Weak? McCaffrey for Mayor?
December 14, 2023 08:01 - 46 minutesThis holiday season is a heavy one. It's hard to fully distract yourself from what's happening around the world. No matter how good the Knicks are doing, no matter how sensational the Giants rookie quarterback Tommy Cutlets DeVito has been. No matter how much holiday cheer you bring or share or experience, there's still a lot of pain and concern and stress all around the world, especially when it comes to places like Ukraine and Gaza and Israel. President Zelensky just left Washington, D.C., ...
256. Andrew Yang. Why He’s Backing Dean Phillips for President. Liz Cheney, Mark Cuban, The Rock & Many Other Possible Independent Candidates. Should Cornell West and RFK Jr Drop Out? NFL, NBA & Why We All Need Sports Right now. Tuberville Finally Lost.
December 06, 2023 08:01 - 53 minutesAndrew Yang (@AndrewYang) is back. He’s the former Candidate for President. The former Candidate for Mayor. He’s a patriot, an activist and a father. And now, the co-founder of the Forward Party is back to check in with Independent Americans for a look back at the last year for the Forward Party and a look ahead at what’s on the horizon in independent politics and the 2024 elections. With a good dash of sports, parenting and leadership talk. It’s a fun and fascinating episode with no holds b...
255. John Spencer. The Urban Warfare Expert on Combat in Ukraine and Gaza. Ukraine’s Will to Fight. Red Dawn 2023 Style. Is Hamas a Paper Tiger? Gaza’s Terrible Complexity. The High Cost of Not Supporting Ukraine. The Threat of Holiday Attacks in America.
November 30, 2023 08:01 - 1 hourThroughout the last couple of years, we've stayed on top of all the domestic and international security threats facing us all from Putin to Hamas to domestic extremists. And our guest in this episode is going to take us through all of it with a very unique, powerful and authentic perspective. He's an expert on urban combat, which is going to dominate the combat landscape for the next generation and maybe more. It's what we've seen in Iraq. It's what we've seen in Syria. It's what we've seen i...
254. Chuck D. (Replay-Part Two). Crime, Law And The Power Of Youth. Why Space Is Not The Future, It’s All America. Beat Cops Vs Militarized Cops. Empathy For Haters. The Realities of War are Hard Af. Why New York is the Best Teacher in the World.
November 24, 2023 08:01 - 36 minutesWelcome back. We’re wrapping up our holiday and finishing up the second part of Paul Rieckhoff’s discussion with hip hop icon Chuck D. This half is a little more fun and a great look back before we head into the holidays and the New Year. We’ll be back in December with more great all new content for you, but for now here is the rest of this amazing conversation. From Episode 86 - Nov. 20, 2020: As America faces power fights like we’ve never seen before, the legendary founder of Public Enemy j...
253. Chuck D (Replay-Part One). THANKSGIVING REWIND FEAST. (2020 Remix). Public Enemy’s Iconic Founder on Maddow, Air America, Climate Change, Physical vs Virtual Reality, The Power of DIY, 2020 Election Postgame, Biden and Harris, Society and AI.
November 22, 2023 08:01 - 44 minutesHappy Thanksgiving America. We’re taking a break to be with our families for this holiday but before we go we’ve got an extra helping of the helpers for you because we know you don’t need any more stuffing. From Episode 86 - Nov. 20, 2020: As America faces power fights like we’ve never seen before, the legendary founder of Public Enemy joins us to explore and explain fighting the power: 2020 style. This is Chuck D--a voice of consciousness, outrage, inspiration and action for over 35 years--...
252. Eli Elefant. On The Ground In Israel. A First-Hand Look From an American IDF Veteran. At The Aftermath Of Hamas’ Attack. What The Future Holds For The Palestinians. Perspective On The Attacks And Response. What American Jews Have Been Feeling.
November 16, 2023 08:01 - 51 minutesIt has been 38 days since the terrible attacks in Israel by Hamas occurred. 38 days of horror. 38 days of pain and suffering. On all sides. The attacks on October 7th will be with us forever. And as Israel comes to grasp what that means, we could all use some perspective. For most Americans this conflict is just another in a string of never ending wars. A blip on a phone screen. Just another Tweet. It’s easy to lose perspective. But none of us can afford to lose perspective. Not when there a...
251. Veterans Day Special. Combine Veterans Day and Election Day: A New Idea for a Stronger America.
November 10, 2023 22:08 - 9 minutesVeterans Day has been a federal holiday, recognized each November 11, since 1938, but it means little for most Americans beyond a day off from work. Attendance at Veterans Day events is regrettably low—and declining rapidly. And so is the veterans’ population in America. The unfortunate reality that veterans understand is that the overall power and importance of Veterans Day is fading fast. Simultaneously, America continues to struggle to draw citizens to the polls to vote. Compared to most ...
250. Sebastian Junger. Little Boys are Wild Animals. Assessing the Health of America Now. Why Putin Will Never Beat Ukraine. The Big Challenge for Israel. Republicans Collapse Into Tribalism. Election Day Hope. Don’t Forget Veterans Day. Nature is Good.
November 09, 2023 08:01 - 37 minutesSebastian Junger (@SebastianJunger) is one of the most important authors, thinkers and public intellectuals in America. And one of the most interesting guys you’ll ever hear. He joined us in Episode 207 - Jan 25, 2023, Episode 116 - May 27, 2021 and Episode 100 - February 4, 2021 and he’s back again with more of the ongoing conversation about the state of America and what it means to be a true patriot. It’s a special conversation, just in time for your Veterans Day weekend. Yeah, it’s this w...
249. The World Is On Fire. An Exhausted Marine General Had a Heart Attack—and Senator Redneck Doesn’t Care. Republicans Finally Stand Up To Him. 29 Attacks on US Troops–And Counting. American HIMARS Hit Hard in Ukraine. Pence is Out. Halloween Kindness.
November 02, 2023 07:01 - 28 minutesA terrible situation in Gaza is getting worse. And especially for the innocent civilians caught in the middle of the chaos, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Middle East is on fire. And we can’t forget about Ukraine. Putin sure is hoping we will. But we can not. Especially here in America. Everywhere you look, it seems like the world is burning. Because much of the world is. From Israel to Gaza to India and Pakistan to Yemen to Ukraine to North Korea to China–to right here at home in the hal...
248. Weekend Special. A New, Very Extreme Speaker. A Massive Political Win for the American Insurgency. Mass Shooting in Maine. The IDF is Going In. Drone Attacks on US Troops Continue. Ukraine Falling Further From the Headlines. Insecurity in America.
October 27, 2023 23:55 - 25 minutesWhile the world teeters on the brink, we’ve got a new radical Speaker of the House, a shooter on the loose in Maine, and Israel appears ready to strike in Gaza. Now is definitely a time to stay vigilant. And we know the weekend is a good time to get away from the pressures of the week, but with everything going on in the world, now is not the time to check out. Now is not the time to look away. It's the time to do more. So here’s a bonus episode to start your weekend off with an extra dose o...
247. Congressman Pat Ryan. The Vet Taking On Tuberville. What’s the Plan to Free the American Hostages? Speaker Chaos Continues. US Troops Under Attack in the Middle East—And Nobody Notices. A Message to Ukraine. Avoiding a Failure of Imagination. MDCOA.
October 25, 2023 07:01 - 56 minutesAs Israel prepares to invade Gaza, as Hamas holds over a hundred hostages, as Ukraine continues to battle Putin, as American troops in the middle east face drone strikes daily, as China looms over Taiwan, and as America tears itself apart, the world has never been closer in our lifetime to World War Three. This Halloween is an especially scary time. And we’re keeping it real. And as the American military prepares for all of it, Congress has no Speaker of the House, and radical Alabama Senato...
246. Why We Must Support Israel AND Ukraine. Gaza Hospital Explodes Tensions Worldwide. ATACMS Explode in Ukraine. American Troops Wounded in Iraq?!? STILL No Speaker. Tubervilles’s Gaslighting of America. RFK Jr, Cornel West and No Labels: No Thank You!
October 20, 2023 07:01 - 42 minutesExplosions are everywhere. And that makes it VERY much a time to stay vigilant. More than any other time in recent memory. Israel is at war with Hamas. Explosions from the ATACMS (The Army Tactical Missile System) fired by Ukrainian forces hitting Russian forces inside Ukraine. Explosions at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza City. Which was originally blamed on Israel–and is now likely to have been caused by Hamas. And American troops were hit by drones in Iraq. WTF?!?! It feels like there are ex...
245. Dan Lamothe. Inside The US Military Support For Israel. Will America Go Get Our Hostages? Traveling with New Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen CQ Brown. Tuberville’s Holds Cut Deeper. Passing Peak Ukraine. China & Taiwan Loom. What’s Next for Gen Milley?
October 17, 2023 07:01 - 44 minutesHalloween is right around the corner. And things in Washington DC, and the world, couldn’t be any spookier. It's a scary time. There’s still no Speaker of the House. Congress is an epically disgraceful mess. Ukraine is still deep in the fight. Israel is about to unleash hell on Gaza. And Putin and Hamas couldn’t be happier. And this is an episode that is not afraid to meet the moment. Army veteran and national security and politics analyst Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) hosts another insigh...
244. Sec Pete Buttigieg. War in Israel. How Should America Respond? Is US Transportation Ready for Hamas? Trump & Tuberville vs Milley & Kelly. Buttigieg & Moore in 2028? How to Talk to Kids About These Crazy Times. Training Vets to Drive Trucks.
October 11, 2023 07:01 - 25 minutesFor 243 episodes, your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has reminded us all to #StayVigilant. This weekend was a stark reminder of what that means and why it is important. The horrifying attacks on the Israeli people shocked us all. And times like this are too important to wait to get the information you need. So this episode is a special Quick Response Content (QRC) delivery of what you need to know with a returning favorite guest— Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Buttigieg is one of the most i...
243. Trump Threatens General Milley with Death. GOP Debate Sh$tshow. What About Open Primaries? Andrew Yang Replay: The Forward Party Turns One.
October 05, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourThe radical political attacks on our military and military leaders are intensifying. Including Trump now threatening to have Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Mark Milley EXECUTED. And you didn’t hear much about it in the #GOPdebate. Which Trump won despite not being anywhere near the stage. It’s a mess and your host Paul Rieckhoff breaks it all down, plus a great conversation with Andrew Yang (@AndrewYang) from December 2022. It’s a great one and we think you’re going to really enjoy it. Every ep...
242. Shut ‘em Down. US Army Private Travis King Released from North Korea. McCarthy’s Shutdown Sh@tshow. GOP Debate Madness Part 2. Calls for Menendez to Resign. Why Not for Tuberville Too? ATACMS To Ukraine—FINALLY. Suicide Prevention Month.
September 28, 2023 07:01 - 25 minutesFall is here. The leaves are turning. The nights are getting cooler. And everywhere you turn, the stupid is out. From Tuberville’s idiotic endless hold on military promotions to New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez’s latest indictment, this fall is definitely a time to stay vigilant. Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) tears into the latest headlines, always with a focus on national security and always with an eye on independent politics. Every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Riec...
241. Zelensky Comes to NYC. Democrats Finally Grow A Spine to Run Over Traitor Tuberville. DeSantis Doesn’t Care About White People. Why Biden Should Dump Harris To Attract Independents. Auto Workers Strike. Coach Prime is the Leader America Needs.
September 21, 2023 07:01 - 27 minutesSeptember is a busy month. School is back. Football is back. Fall is here. And so is Zelensky. Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks it all down. From the Ukrainian President’s visit to Ron DeSantis latest buffoonery to Senator Redneck’s continued hold on military promotions—now is definitely a time to stay vigilant. Every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and ne...
240. Missing John McCain. Romney is Out. The Many Hypocrites That Forgot 9/11. Elon Musk Meddles with Ukraine—and Putin Loves It. Zip Tie Guy and His Mom Get Prison. Aaron Rodgers Goes Down. Stronger at the Broken Places.
September 14, 2023 07:01 - 27 minutesJohn McCain’s life of service is an example always. Especially around 9/11. And given the state of the world, America, and our politics, we miss him now more than ever. He showed us that after tragedy there can be triumph. McCain showed us how to be, as Hemingway described, “Stronger at the broken places”. But some things break beyond repair. And that might be the case now for the GOP. As it continues to disintegrate, falling further and further away from the party of McCain. And the party...
239. 9/11: 22 Years Later. More Prison Sentences for More for Jan 6 Leaders. Tuberville vs Every Leader of the Military. Larry Hogan is Not Independent. Football and School Are Back. Jimmy Buffett and #NeverForget. REPLAY: 9/11 HEROES SHARE THEIR STORIES.
September 07, 2023 07:01 - 49 minutes22 years after 9/11, our host and 9/11 First Responder, Paul Rieckhoff reflects on where we are as a nation, how far we’ve come, what we’ve gained, and what we’ve lost. And–if after all these years–America is now forgetting about 9/11. He’ll also dig into parallels with the January 6th attacks, new sentences handed down to key leaders of the Proud Boys, Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville’s ongoing and terribly damaging blocks on the promotions of military leaders, how the Biden Administration ...
238. End of Summer Madness. Eminem Slams Ramaswamy. Christie’s Strategy To Reach Independents in New Hampshire. Senator Redneck Continues to Lie. An Epic Little League World Series Ending. Don’t be like Giuliani. Be like Ohtani. Work Hard and Be Nice.
August 31, 2023 07:01 - 27 minutesSummer is almost over. But the hits just keep on coming. Bad ones. Like a new school shooting at the University of North Carolina, Senator Redneck’s ongoing blocks on military promotions, and a hurricane hitting the south. But some good hits keep coming too. Like Simon Biles winning a record 8th gymnastics championship, the return of football, and the epic end to the Little League World Series. It’s been a summer of highs and lows. Jerks and heroes. And our host, Paul Rieckhoff’s got a quick ...
237. GOP Debate Breakdown. Trumpism Is Like COVID. Independents Ain't Having Any Of It. Senator Redneck Wins a New Award. Prigozhin Goes Down in Flames. The American Insurgency Strikes Again. Little League World Series Summer Magic.
August 24, 2023 07:01 - 24 minutesWell, the first GOP debate is now history. And if you were on vacation or watching baseball, our Paul Rieckhoff has a quick and uniquely independent recap. He watched it so you didn’t have to. He sizes up the field—and Trump’s continued dominance in the polls. And how/if it all appeals to independents on any level. He’s also got a quick update on Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville’s latest efforts to weaken our military, the breaking news out of Ukraine, the domestic terror attack you may have...
236. Afghanistan Two Years Later = Forgotistan. Rep Peter Meijer REPLAY. Our Summer of Chaos Continues. Another Week, Another Indictment. An American Insurgent in Utah Killed by the FBI. The Tide is Turning Against Senator Redneck (AKA Tuberville).
August 17, 2023 11:12 - 37 minutesAugust is steamy hot—and so is the news. Trump is indicted again, Senator Tuberville is making dumb moves again. And extremist domestic terrorists are threatening our peace and politicians' lives again. So much for summer downtime, people. This is a time for focus. And as it all unfolds on a daily, sometimes hourly basis. And this summer is still, definitely a time to #StayVigilant. Paul Rieckhoff is quickly breaking it down—so you can get up to speed, and head back to the beach. And we fla...
235. Summer Dispatch. Musk vs Zuck in a Fight? For Vets? WTF. The Crisis of Masculinity. Christie Meets with Zelenskyy. FINALLY F-16s to Ukraine. Trump’s Month of Meltdowns & Poll Surges. US World Cup Women Are a Reflection of America. Forward Turns One.
August 10, 2023 07:01 - 33 minutesThe women’s World Cup is over for the US. But the summer is not. Hawaii is on fire. Billionaires are fighting each other. Trump has more indictments than any podcast has time to cover and finally President Biden has approved F-16s for Ukraine. This summer especially is a time to #StayVigilant. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by author, activist and social entrepreneur Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other polit...
234. The Trump Indictment (The Latest One). Senator Tuberville’s Temper Tantrum Costs Alabama Space Command. The Alt-Right Media Attacks Rieckhoff. Independent Growth In Arizona. The USA Women’s World Cup Team Survives and Inspires.
August 03, 2023 07:01 - 25 minutesOur wild and crazy summer of 2023 continues. In case you haven’t heard, Trump has been indicted again. And that means it’s again, very much a time to stay vigilant. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by author, activist and social entrepreneur Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on ...
233. James LaPorta. American Vet Trevor Reed Wounded in Ukraine. US Soldier Runs into North Korea. Tuberville’s Holds Are Hitting Troop Morale. Nazis Trying To Infiltrate the Military. DeSantis’ Attacks On The Pentagon. Are UFOs Real? Work Hard, Be Nice.
July 28, 2023 20:25 - 1 hourWe’re going inside some of the wildest and most important defense and national security stories of the summer with National Security Reporter for The Messenger and Marine Corps combat veteran, James LaPorta (@JimLaPorta). James joins us to take us inside the wild story of Marine Corps veteran Trevor Reed, released from a Russian prison in 2022, and recently wounded fighting in Ukraine. He’ll take us inside the VERY wild story of the American soldier who snuck inside a civilian tour group and ...
232. Amy McGrath. The Abortion Fight Hurting Military Women. Senator Redneck (Tuberville) Gives The South a Bad Name. DeSantis vs The Military. Trump’s New Indictment. The Real No Labels Insurance Policy. Heat Makes People Stupid. Lessons From Mets Fans.
July 20, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourMarine Corps fighter pilot Amy McGrath (@AmyMcGrathKY) flew 89 combat missions. And ran one of the most-watched 2020 Senate races in America. She is a trailblazing combat veteran, a former Naval Academy professor and a mother of three. And now she’s a regular on MSNBC and leading the fight to protect women’s reproductive health and rights in the wake of the Supreme Court’s Roe decision. She’s a fighter, she’s one of our most popular guests, and she is back. Just in time to explain why the Pen...
231. Joe Lieberman. Exploring The No Labels Black Box. Life as an Independent. Senator Tuberville’s New Support for White Nationalists. Senator Redneck Strikes Again. Zelensky, NATO & Another American Vet Dies in Ukraine. The PGA vs 9/11 First Responders.
July 13, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourIndependence is what this nation was founded on. It’s the spirit of our national brand. It was what General—then President George Washington–was all about. It’s where we started, before our political landscape degraded into the dysfunctional and dangerous two party duopoly we have now. And in his farewell address in 1796, Washington warned that one of the top risks of letting regional loyalties dominate loyalty to the nation as a whole was that it would lead to factionalism—a division of the...
230. More Luke Russert. Extra Sebastian Junger and Matt Gallagher. Post July 4th Bonus Content to Celebrate America’s Independence (and Independents) with Three of Our Favorite American Authors.
July 06, 2023 07:01 - 29 minutesIndependence Day is now in the rear view mirror, and as summer heats up, we’re taking a much needed break. The engine that runs Righteous Media and Independent Americans needs a little tune up time at the beach. But before we take some time off we wanted to deliver you some fresh, high-quality and high impact listening. So as you head to the pool, or to the beach, or to work, wherever you listen, we are breaking out some of the very best of the bonus content, content that is normally just for...
229. Luke Russert. July 4th Special: The Church of Freedom. Lessons from a Journey Across America. Baseball’s New Changes Are a Blueprint. Rise of the Backbenchers. Will He Run for Office? Wagner Fireworks in Russia. DeSantis vs Freedom. Pride = Freedom.
June 29, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourIt’s America’s birthday. July 4th. Independence Day. or INDEPENDENTS Day. Our favorite day of the year around here. And as we load up the car for the beach, or fire up the BBQ, or work the holiday shift, America’s birthday is always a time to stay vigilant. As the Ukrainians fight a brutal war for their survival, as LGBTQIA+ individuals fight for the recognition of their right to exist and, shamefully, as Ron DeSantis fights his fake war on woke, it’s time for our annual discussion of freedo...
228. Mayor Yemi Mobolade. The New Independent Mayor of Colorado Springs. How He Won. The Importance of Non-Partisan Primaries. Power of Positivity. Captain Positivity vs Senator Redneck for Space Command. Americans Fighting in Ukraine. Trombone Shorty.
June 22, 2023 07:01 - 1 hour#IndependentAmericans WILL determine the 2024 presidential election. Especially in swing states. We are the largest, fastest-growing and most powerful group of voters in America. 50% of vets are independents. 60% of young people. We are free agents—and every candidate will have to earn our votes. But beyond the race for President, the independent movement is real, diverse and growing fast. Fueled by disgust with the two parties, generational change, #OpenPrimaries and other election reform, a...
227. Ron Perlman. Optimus Primal in Transformers: Rise of The Beasts. The Autobots Are Like America. Trump Indicted. Ron Goes Off. The Most Ridiculous PGA Sellout of All. Messi Stiff-Arms the Saudis. Vigilance Can’t Take a Smoke Break. Father’s Day 2023.
June 15, 2023 07:39 - 1 hourTrump has finally been arrested. And indicted. Just in time for Flag Day. And just in time for Father’s Day. And it’s most definitely a time to stay vigilant. From the ongoing PGA saga, to the Ukrainian offensive, to primaries that are closed to independents in NYC, Oklahoma and Washington, DC, to the special importance of Father’s Day 2023, this episode is tearing into the most important, urgent and interesting topics in America. And taking you inside the biggest film in America. Transforme...
226. Rob Serra. 9/11 Hero On PGA Selling Out America To The Saudis. #BoycottPGA. Smoke Covers America. Russia Hits Ukrainian Dam. Is Zaporizhzhia Nuke Plant Next? D-Day. Independent Mayor Mobolade Takes Office. Transformers Reflects America’s Challenges.
June 08, 2023 07:02 - 1 hourSmokepocalypse is here. And so are those who want to smokescreen and burn down America. The world is on fire. Literally. So on this anniversary of D-Day, we’re calling in a trusted leader and friend of the show who knows how to fire fires. Fight for others. And fight for America. Rob Serra (@SerraRob) is America’s leading advocate for firefighters and first-responders. A renowned activist, technical expert and father of three, Rob is a conscience for America who began his firefighting career ...
225. Asha Rangappa. The Stewart Rhodes Verdict. Sedition Is Treason’s Cousin. Trump’s Shadow Army & Domestic Extremism. Who is America’s Wyatt Earp? Cable News Booty Calls. Senator Redneck vs the Pentagon. Pancake Pays a Visit. Heat vs Nuggets NBA Finals.
June 01, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourIt’s college graduation time. And NBA finals time. And Ukraine spring offensive time. And almost summertime. And for some key insurrectionists, it’s judgment time. And it is definitely a time to stay vigilant. We’re digging into seditious conspiracy. And insurrection. And what the penalties should be. And how to fight it. And Stewart Rhodes and Trump and the #AmericanInsurgency. Stakes is high. And we’re not afraid to have the hard conversations. Asha Rangappa (@AshaRangappa_) is our guest....