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.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
224. Gideon Yago. The Death of MTV News. His Incredible 9/11 Story. What Vice Got Wrong. The Writers Strike. America is Broken. DeSantis Announces. US F-16s Are Finally En Route to Ukraine. The NBA Playoffs Are Amazing. Memorial Day 2023. #GoSilent.
May 25, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourMTV News gone. And so is Vice. And Buzzfeed News and others. But there was only one MTV News. And while it may be officially dead, its spirit lives on. Forever. MTV News was always about the future. And in this moment of hardship for America, it’s critical that we reflect on our past, to chart out a better future. The revolution will not be televised. Because TV is dead. But it will be broadcast. Because broadcasts of truth never die. They adapt, improvise and overcome. And the independent m...
223. Tim Mak. Independent Journalist & US Army Vet in Ukraine. The Counteroffensive. Inside a Kyiv Missile Barrage. Ukrainian Sushi & Pizza. The Future of American Media. Independent Yemi Mobolade Elected Mayor of Colorado Springs. Allergy Season SUCKS.
May 18, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourThe future is here. Bad and good. From AI and climate change, to self-driving cars and a faster brand of major league baseball. The future is now. And that includes politics. The future is here. And it looks like Yemi Mobolade. The newly-elected INDEPENDENT Mayor of Colorado Springs. He represents the future. A future that is independent. The future is independent. Whether it’s independent media, or independent music, or independent films, or independent candidates for Mayor, the future will...
222. Michael Steele. Why Hasn’t He Left the GOP? Republican Party Disintegration. Trump Guilty–and Ahead in Polls. Biden’s Bad Economic Messaging. No Labels No-Go. More Shootings. Ukraine Fires Its First Patriots. John Wick, NBA Playoffs & Mother’s Day.
May 11, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourMichael Steele is a returning guest who always brings the fire. (Hear/watch his previous appearance in Episode 193 from Oct 2022) The Former Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Former Lt. Gov. of Maryland has served in all levels of elected and government office and is now a Political Analyst for MSNBC and the host of his own influential political podcast. He ran for the Maryland Senate seat in 2016 and is often suggested as a candidate for President. He’s also a big John Wick fan....
221. Nick Troiano. The Future of the Independent Movement. Running for Congress as an Independent. What is Unite America? Teacher Appreciation Week. Ukraine Drones and the Kremlin. More Shootings. Senator Tuberville vs The Pentagon. NBA Playoff Fire.
May 04, 2023 07:01 - 58 minutesMay is here. And it’s supposed to be the time for flowers. We’ll see about that. But next week is teacher appreciation week. A reminder of how much our teachers do. And how much there always is to learn. And, this is definitely time a time to stay vigilant The war rages on in Ukraine. This will be a spring–and likely a summer—of fighting all across Ukraine. And unfortunately, fighting of different kinds also here all across America. Some on behalf of partisan forces, some on behalf of indepen...
220. Adrian Bonenberger. An American Veteran in the Ukrainian Army. Why Is He Willing to Die for Ukraine? The Looming Spring Offensive. Tucker Carlson is Out. Don Lemon is Too. Biden is In. Trump is Up. Stupid Senators Smoke Vets Cannabis Bill. NFL Draft.
April 27, 2023 07:01 - 57 minutesIt’s on. This April, it’s on. All of it. The storms continue to pour. And the biggest storm of all still looms and gathers, as the world watches and braces for it. The spring offensive in Ukraine. It’s coming. We’ve all seen it gathering, we’ve all heard the reports, we’ll all watched the pieces come into place…and any day now….or maybe months from now…it will hit. Maybe more like a tectonic earthquake on a faultline than like a storm….it is coming. We just don’t know when. But it will be b...
219. John Opdycke. BREAKING: 49% of Voters Are Now Independents. Dissecting the New Gallup Poll. Where Are The Independent Candidates? Angry Crazy Person Shootings. Biden’s New Executive Order For Caregivers. The Hope of Spring. Jimmy Buffet Was Right.
April 20, 2023 07:01 - 58 minutesThere is new polling that shows a record 49% of Americans now see themselves as politically independent — the same as the two major parties put together. The biggest and dominant political affiliation isn’t Democrat or Republican. It’s none of the above. The two parties are failing. And losing strength. And the future is independent. Gallup analyst Jeff Jones says a big reason for this change is driven by the younger generation. "It was never unusual for younger adults to have higher percent...
218. Replay: Scott Galloway. Spring Break Special with Prof G. Elon Musk: Savior or Threat? Land of Confusion. Recession Is Coming. Ukraine Rallies the World. The Branding of Independents. Politicians Are Too Old. The Forward Party: Start-Up Flop?
April 13, 2023 07:01 - 43 minutesSpring has officially sprung. The birds are chirping. The bees are buzzing. And we’re on Spring Break. We’re recharging our batteries and getting things ready for another amazing season of bringing you the best guests and the hard hitting content you’ve come to expect. So while we eat/drink/sun too much for a quick week off, we wanted to revisit one of our favorite episodes. And who better to hear from when you’re on Spring Break than the great Prof G, Scott Galloway. Even when we’re away cla...
217. Joe Walsh. The Return Of Trump. President Mayhem 2.0. Ukraine Prepares for Offense. More US Airstrikes in Syria Nobody Notices. Tulsi Gabbard is Not an Independent. Only Manchin Would Vote For Manchin. Even March Madness Divides America.
April 06, 2023 07:01 - 1 hour#PresidentMayhem is back. In version 2.0. As the Trump indictment continues to unfold, we’re breaking down how it will impact America, the race for President, our national defense and especially, independents nationwide. From a uniquely and truly independent standpoint. And we’ve got the perfect guest and the perfect conversation to break it all down. It’s a real and fiery talk. About real issues and real people. It’s a conversation with a self-described political bomb thrower–who understands...
216. Rudy Reyes. Nashville School Shooting After-Action Review with the Recon Marine Expert. Generation Kill: 20 Yrs Later. Airstrikes in Syria. Chaos in Israel. Inside “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test”. SEALS Saving Seals. Positivity is Contagious.
March 30, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourIt’s been another hard week in America. Another week with another catastrophic and horrifying school shooting. And as spring finally begins in America, this is an especially critical time to stay vigilant. The Nashville PD had leaders who stepped up. While others in Washington cowered and failed. And coming up, we’re gonna break it down with a legendary special operations Recon Marine and tactical trainer–who’s been in situations much like that many times. And trained many more. We’re gonna ...
215. Matt Gallagher. America on Edge. The Iraq War at 20. The Trump Indictment. Inside Ukraine’s Volunteers. Tulsa King. March Madness, the World Baseball Classic and Sports as a Prism and a Mirror. National Mr Rogers Day.
March 23, 2023 07:01 - 1 hourAmerica has had a hard few weeks. And definitely taken some Ls. And as one season ends, and another begins, we’re calling a big time pitcher out of our bullpen to help us make sense of it all. From Trump’s indictment, to Iraq at 20, to Ukraine’s urgent needs, to March Madness and the WBC. Matt Gallagher (@MattGallagher0) is back. He joined us last after just leaving Ukraine for Episode 161 in March of 2022. One of the most important writers of our time, especially touching on issues of war a...
214. Rachel Maddow. Chef Robert Irvine. Gov Wes Moore. Gen Barry McCaffrey. From Secret Pancake Recipes to Music Recommendations to Tips on Working Out. Bonus Conversations With Recent Guests. The Iraq War: 20 Years Later. March Madness & Semper Gumby.
March 16, 2023 07:01 - 49 minutesInstead of one amazing guest and conversation, you’re gonna get 4! Our paid Patreon supporters always get a special extra piece of content after every show. And in this episode, we’re gonna share FOUR! From four of our recent, and most popular guests. We’ve been on a tear of booking lately, and these four clips are from four of the most interesting, most dynamic and most inspiring we’ve had. Rachel Maddow. Chef Robert Irvine. Governor Wes Moore. General Barry McCaffey. Rachel will share a b...
213. General Barry McCaffrey. Ukraine’s Brutal Next Phase. Bloody, Expensive, Hard, Necessary. Why Russia Must Lose. What China Might Do. Recruiting For Team None of the Above. No Accountability for Afghanistan. AUMF You. F1 is Back–and Like Independents.
March 09, 2023 08:01 - 1 hourWar is bloody, expensive and hard. And sometimes, necessary. The prolonged occupation of Afghanistan was probably not necessary. The initial invasion probably was. But we can debate all of that for decades. And we will. But what is not debatable is the incredibly high cost of leaving your allies, or even your own Marines and troops, to fight and die on their own. If you leave your people hanging at the most key moment, it will be even more bloody, expensive and hard. And that will be true o...
212. Governor Wes Moore. Leading for Vets. Redefining Patriotism. How He Captured Independents. Getting a Puppy. East Palestine, Ohio Smells Like 9/11. Why We Don’t Trust the Government. Fast, Fearless, Loved.
March 02, 2023 08:01 - 55 minutesAs chemicals continue to circulate in Ohio, Chinese spy satellites roam overhead, mask mandate divisions linger, and 9/11 first responders again have to descend on Washington to demand healthcare support, this is not an easy time to trust in government. America is hungry for competence. And hungry for leadership. And our guest this week is bringing it back. Big and fast. He’s the fastest rising star in politics since Barack Obama. And he may be coming on even faster. But can he get independ...
211. Congressman Ruben Gallego. Can He Win Independents In Arizona? Will Running Vs Sinema Elect Kari Lake? The Latino Independent Vote. Biden’s Train Trip to Kyiv. US Troops Wounded in Syria. Rating The VA Secretary. Fetterman’s Fight With Depression.
February 23, 2023 08:01 - 52 minutesAmerica is also still at war at home. Against itself. The races for 2024 are already unfolding. And they look nastier than ever. And independents will be more important than ever. And in no place will they be more important than in Arizona. And that’s why we invited our guest in this episode to join us once again. He’s the man who wants to be the next Senator from the state that elected John McCain. The state that recently elected Astronaut and Navy vet Mark Kelly. And the state that elect...
210. Chef Robert Irvine. From Navy Cook to Feeding Presidents at The White House. Trump & Biden’s Favorite Dishes. Running a Restaurant Inside The Pentagon. His Last Meal on Earth. Independent Businesses After COVID. Saluting Peeps Founder Bob Born.
February 16, 2023 08:01 - 1 hourHe’s gone from serving in the British Royal Navy as a lowly cook, to serving multiple presidents in The White House. From a troublemaking teen, to TV star, to entrepreneurial and philanthropic leader. He’s a truly great American immigration story. A truly great American business story. And a truly great American success story. And he’s here to chop it up with us in a way that is raw, hot and ready to serve. He’s Chef Robert Irvine (@RobertIrvine)! As the presidential candidates from both sid...
209. Rocky Bleier. Independent Super Bowl Special. Vietnam Vet & The Only Purple Heart Recipient to Win a Super Bowl (4 Times!). Fighting for Open Primaries in Pennsylvania. State of the Union. Chinese Balloon Drama. The Grammys. Football & America.
February 09, 2023 08:01 - 1 hourSuper Bowls are a time for leaders to step up. And for heroes to me made. But they’re not real heroes. They’re football players. And most of them are not real heroes. But a generation ago, there was a real hero playing in the Super Bowl. A true legend. And that legend was established the moment he stepped back on an NFL field. And was elevated after he made it to the Super Bowl. And after he won FOUR of them. Against all odds, he became the only purple heart recipient in history to win a ...
208. Rachel Maddow. On Tom Brady & the NFL. What’s She Doing Now That She’s Not on TV Every Night. The Most Important Part About Ukraine. Presidential Election & Super Bowl Predictions. Tyre Nichols & America’s Unit Culture Fail. What Brings Rachel Joy?
February 02, 2023 08:01 - 1 hourUnit culture is defined by leaders. Whether it’s a football team, a police force, a Congressional office or a cable news network. Or a country. And for more than a decade, the unit culture at one of the biggest cable news networks in America, at the most important times in our recent history, was defined by one leader. One leader whose leadership influenced the broader culture across not just her network, but all news media, across our politics, and across our culture. One person who was tr...
207. Sebastian Junger. What Is Freedom? What’s It Like To Die And Come Back? Is Ukraine More American than America? The Freedom of a Flip Phone. Vets Town Hall. More Mass Shootings. Zelenskyy Gets Abrams Tanks On His Birthday. Alec Baldwin & THINK.
January 26, 2023 03:01 - 1 hourUkraine is fighting for their freedom. Iranian protestors are fighting for their freedom. And here in America, none of us feel free from the threat of gun violence. It’s a time where freedom is under assault always, and in all ways. So let’s talk about freedom. In America, in Iran, in Ukraine. And let’s talk about how to be more free in our lives daily. Being free from school shootings and technology. This is a deep one. It’s my first in-person conversation since the pandemic. And it’s a gr...
206. Dan Lamothe. Inside Gen Milley’s Big Meeting with Ukrainian Gen Zaluzhnyi. The Looming Spring Offensive. Is The US Really Running Low on Artillery? Dems Obsess Over Santos. Gov Wes Moore Inaugurated in Maryland. NFL Playoff Picks!
January 19, 2023 03:01 - 50 minutesThere’s lots going on that most folks aren’t tracking on. Especially in Ukraine. But that’s not the case on this show. We’ve got a show focused on the most important and underreported latest. Especially when it comes to national and global security. And we’re taking you inside the massive meeting between American Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Milley and his Ukrainian counterpart just over the Polish border from Ukraine. Dan Lamothe is traveling with General Milley and joins us from B...
205. Nolan Peterson. Ukraine Update. New Year, Same War. What the American Public is Missing. Enduring War With Your Family. Inside a Kiev Bomb Shelter. Mother-May-I with America. Patriot Missiles, Tanks & Planes. The Right’s Denigration of Zelensky.
January 12, 2023 08:01 - 1 hourThe chaos is real. The news is overwhelming. It’s a new year. But it’s the same old chaos. But it seems to be even worse. But nowhere is it worse than in Ukraine. In Ukraine, it’s a new year. And the same war. And in the midst of all the madness. This is the most important madness. And we’re gonna dig into it. He has spent the last 8 years of his life living in Ukraine. And has spent the last year on the front lines of the war helping us all stay connected—and stay vigilant. He’s an Amer...
204. McCarthy Is Humiliated. Congress is Failing. America is Frustrated. Our Enemies Are Celebrating. The NFL and Damar Hamlin’s Shocking Injury. The Camouflage Wave Is Sworn In. Welcome to 2023. Don’t Come Lookin’.
January 05, 2023 08:01 - 25 minutesWelcome to 2023. The year of the stupid. As we begin the new year, our political system is again failing us. And #OurEnemiesAreCelebrating. Welcome to the 118th Congress. Welcome to our chaotic new normal. Welcome to 2023. We’re digging to the Kevin McCarthy/Speaker of the House madness, the tragic Damar Hamlin NFL injury, a #CamouflageWave update, and our favorite new country song of 2023. It’s a fast and fierce new pod to start your new year off right. Here’s the GQ article by Luke Zale...
203. New Year’s Special. Bonus Content from Historian Michael Beschloss to End 2022 Strong and Start 2023 Right.
December 29, 2022 08:01 - 14 minutesAs we look ahead to 2023 we’re going to take one last look at one of the best moments from our Patreon bonus content. Michael Beschloss (@BeschlossDC) is a truly important, inspiring and iconic American that is shaping what America has been, what it is, and what it will be. And he is a truly independent American. He joined host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) back in Episode 196 - November 10, 2022 for some much needed post-election perspective. As always, it was a conversation that helped yo...
202. Mr. Zelensky Comes to Washington. An Early $1.B Hannukah and Christmas Gift for Ukraine from Biden Claus. Jason Alexander Extra Content Festivus Surprise. World Cup Amazingness. I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.
December 22, 2022 08:01 - 23 minutesAs 2022 winds down, we’re all ready for a little break. And as we recognize the festival of lights, and get ready for Santa, we’re getting one more holiday surprise this year. And that means it’s STILL time to stay vigilant. Ahead of Zelensky’s historic and important visit Wednesday, December 21, 2022 to our Capitol to talk about the current war, veterans of our last war were camping outside to beg our government to honor its commitment to us and our allies. To demand passage of the #Afghan...
201. Jason Alexander. The Third Annual Festivus Holiday Special! Reflections on Grandparenthood. Sinema Declares Herself Independent. Brittney Griner is Free. Why Twitter Blue Check Marks Matter. 2022 Recap. Army Navy, Emmet Otter & Dominick the Donkey.
December 15, 2022 08:01 - 1 hourYes, my friends, FESTIVUS is back! A Festivus for the rest of us. And so is our annual Festivus special! With the man himself! The legend. The iconic actor who played George Constanza on Seinfeld--friend of this show—conscience for America—and a very proud new grandfather! The American treasure–and American icon: Jason Alexander (@IJasonAlexander)! Every guest on this show has shaped America’s past, is impacting America’s present, and is driving America’s future. And Jason continues to...
200. Ayman Mohyeldin. Revolutions in Georgia and the Middle East: Which One Has More Radical Extremists? World Cup Euphoria and Controversy. Warnock Beats Walker. Dems Switch Up The Primaries. The Rise of Perspective Media. America Will Help.
December 08, 2022 17:14 - 1 hourTis the season, to remember all the people on the front lines this holiday. When so many are celebrating. So many are standing guard. The French remember that. It’s why 80 years later, when French president Macron comes to the US for a state visit; he meets with and thanks American veterans who were part of the greatest generation that liberated France. The Ukrainians know that now. Help will come. From America, help will come. America is about remembering that helping others is required. An...
199. Andrew Yang. Why Should Independents Join The Forward Party? EXCLUSIVE: Yang’s Surprising Secret Plan If He Was Elected NYC Mayor. World Cup Unity. Rieckhoff Unveils “Operation Independents.” Stewart Rhodes Guilty of Sedition. Pulisic For President!
December 01, 2022 08:01 - 1 hourAs we approach our 200th episode of this show, it’s time to take all our learning, all our allies, all our resources and focus on winning. Winning for America. And winning for America’s future. And our conversation with our guest in this episode is a major step toward doing that. It’s time to bring independents together. It’s time for Americans to unite too. And in this episode, you’re finally gonna hear from Andrew Yang (@AndrewYang). Candidate for President. Candidate for Mayor. Patriot...
198. Anya Kamenetz. Thanksgiving Season Special. What Did COVID Do To Kids? The Lost Year of School. Post-Traumatic Growth. Two More Mass Shootings. We Need a War on Gun Violence. Richard Fierro: Colorado Springs’ Hero Veteran. World Cup Politics.
November 24, 2022 05:07 - 1 hourAs we enter the holiday season, we reflect. We reflect on the good and the bad. The things we’re grateful for and the things we wish had never happened. The last bunch of years has been challenging for all of us. From the chaos of our politics, to the immeasurable losses we suffered from COVID, to the seemingly endless string of mass shootings, we’ve all been through a lot. But no one has experienced the pain we’ve all experienced more than children. They’ve been subjected to a level of uncer...
197. Joe Walsh. Trump is Running Again. The GOP Civil War. Why Joe Turned Down the Forward Party. The Problem with Democrats. The Election Day Independent Wave. Ukraine Takes Kherson. Dolly Parton’s $100M Prize. Veterans Day at Monster Jam.
November 17, 2022 08:17 - 1 hourWelcome to the return of President Mayhem. Welcome to the end of Election Season 2022. Sorta. And welcome to the beginning of Election Season 2024. The Democrats now have the Senate. The Republicans have the House. America is deeply divided. And Trump is back. And so is Joe Walsh. After joining us in Episode 176 in June of 2022, the former GOP Tea Party leader-turned-anti-Trumper independent Joe Walsh (@WalshFreedom) is back with Paul to break down all the latest and most important political...
196. Michael Beschloss. Midterm Election Post-Mortem. The Camouflage Wave. 2024 Starts Now. Is Trump vs Biden Inevitable? DeSantis vs Moore in 2028? Independent Prospects for President. McMullin Loses in Utah. Veterans Day. Amherst vs Williams.
November 10, 2022 08:01 - 1 hourThe most important election of our lifetime is finally over. Sorta. And the final contest may be just beginning. America is divided. And half the country is not happy this week. Again. Anger and division is the story of our lives in America now. And if you’re feeling like it’s not, just wait a few more days. Because President Mayhem is back. Trump is back. And we all know what that means for our politics. But what does it mean for 2024? What does it mean for a likely match up against Biden? ...
195. Ken Burns. Election Special. The Master Documentarian on Extremism in America, Ukraine, The Importance of This Election, Doing a Film on Iraq & Afghanistan, His Dog Chester. Paul Pelosi Attacked. The American Insurgency Grows. Twitter In Chaos.
November 03, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourElection Day is almost here. And America is divided. America is scared. America is angry. But independent Americans are in a unique position to make an impact. We will decide the election in so many races all across the country. And at least one of us, Evan McMullin in Utah, could be elected Senator. America is on edge, but we can help bring them down off that edge. Help them see over it. Help them move around it. And we have the perfect guest to guide us through this Election Day week. To ...
194. Adam Kinzinger. Inside the Jan 6 Committee. Will He Leave The GOP and Go Independent? Is He Running for President? Progressives Bomb Out on Ukraine. Putin’s Long Play. Election Day Predictions. Fetterman v Dr Oz. Tulsi Gabbard, Fellas & Halloween!
October 27, 2022 08:10 - 1 hourThe stupid is all over the place this season like candy corn in the bottom of your halloween bag. Everyone hands it out, some people say they love it, but they don’t. It’s an outdated and disgusting relic from a time long past. And it just will NOT go away. And it’s the scary season. Not just in America, but around the world. There are real goons and monsters and goblins doing dastardly and frightening things. But there are also real life superheroes. Helpers who are rising to the moment. In...
193. Michael Steele. Election Predictions. Why is He Still a Republican? Who Will Win The House? Will the GOP Break Apart? Picking Winners & Losers in All the Big November Matchups. Jan 6 Committee Subpoenas Trump. Putin Loves Elon Musk & Kevin McCarthy.
October 20, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourOctober is the time when the real stars shine. In baseball—and in politics. Whether it’s Reggie Jackson or Barack Obama. October is the time when victory is determined. The time when the stars shine. Welcome to playoff season. Welcome to the playoffs of politics. And Michael Steele is ready to play ball. In a smart and fun conversation that we recorded on his birthday. Michael served in all levels of elected and government office. The Former Chairman of the Republican National Committee, For...
192. Scott Galloway. Elon Musk: Savior or Threat? Land of Confusion. Recession Is Coming. Ukraine Rallies the World. The Branding of Independents. Politicians Are Too Old. The Forward Party: Start-Up Flop? The Rock for Prez? The Great Fragmentation.
October 13, 2022 17:27 - 1 hourBaseball playoffs are here, Halloween is a few weeks away, Election Day is about a month out, and Elon Musk is buying Twitter. And, now is a time to stay vigilant. One of the richest guys in the world is continuing to stick his nose in politics. And along the way, launching rockets into space, while doing weird stuff like launching a new perfume called “Burnt Hair.” Yes, really. It’s a new bottled fragrance available via Musk’s’ Boring Company website. And it’s already sold 10,000 bottles and...
191. Malcolm Nance. From The Frontlines Inside Ukraine. Inside the International Legion of Foreign Fighters. Ukraine Storms Kherson. What Are Russian Soldiers Really Like? Biden Sends More HIMARS. Judge Breaks the Record. Bombs, Bombs, Bombs. WTF is NAFO.
October 06, 2022 07:17 - 1 hourAaron Judge is hitting bombs. And in this episode, we’re gonna continue to hit content bombs. With our reigning home run champion of national security and modern warfare. A six time returning champion. He’s our lead off batter, our clean up slugger, our ace pitcher, and our play by play AND our color guy. He’s the clutch hitter, the utility infielder, and most of all, especially when it comes to the war in Ukraine, he’s our MVP. He’s America’s favorite terrorism expert, a decorated military ...
190. Joe Cirincione. Putin’s Nukes: The Threats, The Realities, The Terrible and Possible Scenarios. Ukraine’s Momentum. HIMARS Are The Real 2022 MVP. Hurricane Ian Slams Florida. Iran Protests. Storm Season is Here. Aaron Judge Hits 61.
September 29, 2022 19:26 - 1 hourHurricane Ian is slamming the US right now. And more storms are likely to follow. The hurricane is rocking Florida’s Gulf Coast and is causing massive damage. Meanwhile, weeks after Hurricane Fiona, much of Puerto Rico still doesn’t have power. All of Cuba is without power. And in Ukraine and Russia, the storms are also building. Massive storm clouds of war. And the threat, again, of nukes. And the scariest kind of storm of all. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has stalled out. And we were am...
189. Matt Zeller & Afghan Activists. 24/7 Firewatch Outside the Capitol To Support the Afghan Adjustment Act. Ukraine’s Roll Continues. Biden Says Pandemic is Over. Trump Again Threatens Violence. Puerto Rico Slammed. Marcus King: Musical Freight Train.
September 22, 2022 07:01 - 38 minutesFall is here. And it’s crazier by the day. Trump drama, Ukraine war news, natural disasters, political dysfunction, election campaign warfare. It’s something new and terrible every day. But there’s one important issue you’re not seeing in the news. Important enough that it has dedicated citizens sleeping outside the US Capitol in Washington tonight. It’s called the “firewatch”. And Matt Zeller (@MattCZeller) is leading it. Matt has been a regular on this show. He’s an activist, an author and...
188. Christine Todd Whitman. Inside the Forward Party. Why Should Independents Trust It? Is There More Than Andrew Yang? Ukraine Running The Table. The GOP National Abortion Ban. “MAGA Republicans”. 9/11, 21 Years Later. Train Strike Gaining Steam.
September 15, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourSilly season is here. It’s less than two months until the midterms elections. And it’s on. Politicians are doing all kinds of crazy things. And the stakes have never been higher. Republican Senator and Sellout-in-Chief Lindsay Graham introduced a national abortion ban bill this week. Texas Governor Greg Abbot shipped busloads of undocumented migrants into so called “sanctuary cities” like New York, Chicago, and DC. And just when you thought things couldn’t get dumber, this week, Florida Gover...
187. The 9/11 Episode. The Stories Behind the Day with First Responders Rob Serra, Richard Naviasky, Joseph Cammarata, Al Barry and Survivor Lila Nordstrom.
September 08, 2022 07:01 - 33 minutes9/11 is the single most influential moment of the 21st century. It was terrible and tragic and it was a moment that will remain etched in our country’s history forever. It was a moment that redefined the trajectory of the entire world and will continue to shape the future for decades to come. 9/11 was a moment that changed everything for the entire world. And it’s a moment that is engrained in the DNA of Righteous Media. Host and founder Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) was there at Ground Ze...
186. Congressman-Elect Pat Ryan. Inside The Political Win of the Summer. A Case Study In Appealing to Independents. Fighting Gas Prices, Trump, Abortion Rollbacks, & His Own Party. An Army Intel Vet on Trump’s Classified Docs. A Where Is Yang Update.
September 01, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourDemocrat Pat Ryan (@PatRyanUC) just won a special Congressional election in upstate New York that has the entire political world talking. Few picked him to win in the traditionally Republican-leaning area. But against the odds, the combat veteran pulled it off. And inspired people of all backgrounds nationwide. And now, analysts and strategists nationwide are rushing to understand how he did it. We’ll take you inside the historic victory in a way no other conversation with Ryan has. Our Paul...
185. Dan Lamothe. Washington Post Exclusive: Inside the Carnage at Kabul Airport. Afghanistan 1 Year Later. New Airstrikes in Syria. Month 6 of Russia's Ukraine Invasion. Taiwan, The Arctic & Where War Could Come Next. Andrew Yang Ghosts on Our Show.
August 25, 2022 07:05 - 44 minutesOne year ago this week, the great American betrayal of Afghanistan culminated with a total debacle of a withdrawal that ended in death and carnage. On Aug. 26, 2021, 13 US troops and 170 Afghans were killed when a bomb ripped through the crowd at the Abbey Gate. The blast took only seconds, but the devastation will live on for decades. And in this pod, we’ll go deep into it with new reporting from The Washington Post’s intrepid defense reporter, Dan Lamothe (@DanLamothe). Dan joined us on ...
184. Buck Sexton. The Conservative Talk Radio Star Who Replaced Rush Limbaugh. What Will Trump Supporters Do After Mar-a-Lago? How Serious Is the Threat of Violence? When Will Trump Announce He’s Running? Can the GOP Attract Any Independents in 2022?
August 18, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourAfter her defeat this week, Congresswoman Liz Cheney said Tuesday's primary is "certainly the beginning of a battle that is going to continue to go on. And as a country, we're facing a moment where our democracy really is under attack and under threat." The battle is on. It’s actually been on for years. We’ve covered it on this show. It’s the battle for the soul of America. But now, that battle is intensifying. And it’s going beyond political fighting. Things are getting nastier, move divided...
183. Sec. Pete Buttigieg. Infrastructure & National Security. Will He Run Again? Afghanistan Now. How Fatherhood Changed Him. Can DOT Projects Fight Extremism? PACT Act Reactions. Mar-a-Lago Raid Sparks Domestic Threats. Plane, Train or Automobile?
August 11, 2022 07:01 - 54 minutesJust when you think things in America can’t get any dicier, they do. And now is definitely a time to stay vigilant. And in this episode especially, we’ve got you covered. Unless you’ve been sleeping on the beach for the last week, you know that the Feds delivered a search warrant at the Mar-a-Lago residence of former President Trump. And what you may not know, is that Trump supporters of all kinds, (and especially the most radical kind), are activated. They are threatening. And things in thi...
182. Matt Zeller. Inside The Inspiring PACT Act Victory. Rolling With Jon Stewart. Veterans Protest On The Capitol Steps. The Opposite of Jan 6th. Afghanistan Withdrawal: 1 Year Later. Al-Zawahiri Is Dead. Why Independents Don’t Want Yang’s New Party.
August 04, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourSometimes, the good guys and gals win. Sometimes, the bad guys lose. This is one of those times. The historic SFC Heath Robinson PACT Act for veterans passed the Senate by a vote of 86-11. But it was wild, it was emotional, it was dramatic, it was infuriating, and it was inspiring. It showed what is still possible in America if a group of concerned citizens are united, focused and motivated. And in this episode, we’ll take you inside one of the most dramatic and important political dramas in...
181. Senator Jon Tester. The Montana Maverick. PACT Act Fuckery. Roe’s Impact on Veterans. Will the VA Ever Change Its Sexist Motto? Dr. Ronny Jackson Then and Now. Farmers, Basketball, Yellowstone, French Toast and Choco Tacos.
July 28, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourSummer is supposed to be a time to chill, relax and enjoy life. And we’re all trying to do that. But the threats and challenges and wars and insurrectionists and viruses don't take summers off. As our host, Paul Rieckhoff @PaulRieckhoff) just found out the hard way. After two years of dodging it like Neo from The Matrix, COVID finally got him. He shares what that’s been like, flies through the political landscape, explains the controversial demise of Choco Tacos, and lands on a breakdown and...
180. Bradley Whitford. Milo Ventimiglia. Arian Moayed. The Stars Of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale‘, ‘Succession’ and ‘This Is Us’ Up Close and Personal. Special Summer Bonus Content Episode.
July 21, 2022 07:01 - 31 minutesThis is a time for stars to shine. And the biggest stars of all, are also the helpers. The helpers continue to emerge. After Uvalde. After Highland Park. After every Jan 6 hearing. The helpers are out there. And we’ve had some big stars of our own on this show. Sarah Jessica Parker. Steven Colbert. John Bernthal. And three in particular that are at the top of their game on three of the biggest shows in America. Last week we heard from some of the country’s leading voices on what it means t...
180. Bradley Whitford. Milo Ventimiglia. Arian Moayed. The Stars Of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale‘, ‘Succession’ and ‘This Is Us’ Uncensored. Special Summer Bonus Content Episode.
July 21, 2022 07:01 - 31 minutesThis is a time for stars to shine. And the biggest stars of all, are also the helpers. The helpers continue to emerge. After Uvalde. After Highland Park. After every Jan 6 hearing. The helpers are out there. And we’ve had some big stars of our own on this show. Sarah Jessica Parker. Steven Colbert. John Bernthal. And three in particular that are at the top of their game on three of the biggest shows in America. Last week we heard from some of the country’s leading voices on what it means t...
179. Defining Independents. Congressman Adam Kinzinger. Tavis Smiley. Michael Smerconish. Evan McMullin. John Opdycke. Lindsay Church. The Search for a New Direction for America.
July 14, 2022 07:01 - 51 minutesOver the years we’ve brought you some of the best voices on the biggest subjects. From Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg to Rachel Maddow the guests have been important voices to hear from at critical times for our country. And this year we’ve taken some time away from the usual dumpster fire of partisan news to focus on the issue that is nearest and dearest to our hearts. The stick that stirs our drink. Independents. And specifically why we think independents are not only an important consti...
178. Amy McGrath. Former Marine Corps Fighter Pilot and Senate Candidate on Top Gun: Maverick vs The Original, Gun Violence, Roe’s Impact on Troops & Vets, Operation Liberty, Ukraine’s Air War, Rand Paul and Kentucky Politics, Rex Chapman for Senate?
July 07, 2022 07:03 - 58 minutesAs the summer heats up and we all plummet headlong into the danger zone, we’ve got the real Top Gun. The real Maverick (actually, call sign Krusty). The fighter pilot that went head-to-head with al Qaeda and the Taliban, and then came home to go head-to-head with Mitch McConnell. Marine 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...
177. Lindsay Church. Roe’s Impact on the Military & Veterans. Independents/Independence Day. Pride 2022: LGBTQ Americans Under Attack. Jan 6 Hearings Get Crazy. The Supreme Court Gets One Right for Vets. Sean Penn, NATO & Rage Against The Machine.
June 30, 2022 19:31 - 1 hourOn this Independence Day 2022, everything is different now. It’s a very dark moment in American history. And Friday, June 24, 2022 was a very dark day. So this July 4th, after the overturning of Roe vs Wade, hundreds of millions of Americans aren’t feeling like they have much independence right now. In this episode, we’re gonna talk about Roe from an angle you won’t get anywhere else. How will the Roe decision impact the military and veterans? How will it impact our national security, milita...
176. Joe Walsh. GOP Tea Party Congressman Turned Anti-Trump Independent. The Republican Base is Radicalized. Beating Trumpism. Why Democrats Suck. Who is the Independent Trump, Obama or Zelensky? Populism: Good or Bad? The Gun Bill and The Midterms.
June 23, 2022 07:01 - 1 hourThis is a fiery episode. Veterans lungs are on fire. America’s forests are on fire. Our conversations are on fire. Children and black people and LGBTQ people are UNDER FIRE. The United States is on fire. Our country is burning… in ways big and small. And the country is dying, literally, for leaders who can run into the fires, put them out with solutions, and help us find a path through the damage and through the smoke to better days. That’s what the Ukrainian people have now in Zelensky. And...