Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff artwork

Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff

300 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 559 ratings

Independent 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.

Politics News News Commentary news politics leadership business interview health entrepreneurship comedy entrepreneur books
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

127. Matt Zeller. The Collapse of Afghanistan. Biden Is Blowing It. #SaveOurAllies. The Guam Option. Why The Taliban Don’t Want Women to Read. Asian Jumping Dirt. How You Can Help.

August 12, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As American troops pull out of Afghanistan, the Taliban is advancing. Quickly. Violence is widespread. And tens of thousands of men and women who helped US efforts there are facing imminent danger. The numbers are shocking. 20,000 of our allies and thousands more of their family members are facing slaughter. It’s a terrible and disgraceful betrayal of our allies. And the ramifications will impact our national security forever. But what’s the real situation on the ground? How bad could it get?...

126. Simone Biles Wins Beyond Tokyo. A Fourth Capitol Hill Police Officer Dies By Suicide. The Afghanistan Implosion Continues. Soledad O’Brien (REPLAY). Trump The Racist. Senator Rand Paul SUCKS. Fireball Whiskey and Riding Horses.

August 05, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

It’s August and it’s hot. And getting hotter. Things are heating up everywhere. From the Delta virus spreading like a wildfire, to the real wildfires burning down the West, to all firefights across a crumbling Afghanistan, to the Olympics burning up our screens as World Records are torched daily. It’s as hot as it gets right now. And of course we can’t forget the dumpster fire that burns perpetually in Washington D.C. as a memorial to our failed political parties. But we like to keep it cool ...

125. The January 6th Hearings. Terrorists vs Heroes. Simone Biles Under Attack. GUEST: STEPHANIE RUHLE (REPLAY). Fed Rates and Coronavirus. Mastering AP Calculus AND Spring Break. Roses and Thorns. Tequila Turns You Up To 11. Effort is Everything.

July 29, 2021 07:01 - 59 minutes

As the dream of a “Hot Vax Summer” starts to look more and more like a Delta nightmare, Rieckhoff breaks down the historic, infuriating January 6th Congressional hearings. And, he rips into the haters attacking Olympic great Simon Biles’ toughness and patriotism.  And we’re taking a look back to the very first days of the pandemic. It’s a fan favorite and one of ours too. We flash back to March 5, 2020 and come to you from deep in the heart of the legendary NBC 30 Rock building in New York as...

124. Best Of: Lessons On Leadership. Susan Rice, Barry McCaffrey, Mark Hertling, James Stavridis, Chuck Hagel. Top Military and Political Leaders on Independent Politics, America’s Future, Duty, Honor, Service and Leadership.

July 22, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As summer continues, we’re sharing some of the best moments and guests from over two years of inspiring shows. Ambassador Susan Rice, General Barry McCaffrey, General Mark Hertling, Admiral James Stavridis, and former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel. This best of episode takes a look back with some of our country’s top leaders to explore the lessons they learned while serving at the highest levels—facing the highest stakes. It’s a master class on leadership you don’t want to miss. If you’ve ...

123. Samantha Bee. Dog Days of Summer Special (Rewind). The Kurds, Democrat Debates. The Daily Show Reunion Tour. Fighting Back With Comedy. Djibouti and Naugahyde.

July 15, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. It’s a look back to before the pandemic. And it is a fun one. Samantha Bee joined Paul back on October 17, 2019 for one of our most popular episodes ever. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From October 17, 2019: This episode is really fun. And important. Samantha Bee (@iamsambee) has taken o...

122. Rex Chapman. NBA Finals Special (Rewind). The Master of Twitter Inspiration and Former NBA Star on the Pandemic, Trump, BLM, and Sports Reopening. Shutting Down Mitch McConnell. Opening Up About Opioid Addiction.

July 08, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. Former NBA star and current Twitter megastar Rex Chapman joined Paul at the height of the pandemic on August 6, 2020 in Episode 66. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From August 6, 2020: Former NBA star (@RexChapman) has quickly become one of the single most popular and beloved figures on Tw...

121. Willie Geist. 4th of July Special (Rewind). Our V-C Day (Victory over COVID) Is Finally Here. Independence/Independents Day. Morning Joe vs Donald Trump. July 4th in a Pandemic. The Wu-Tang Question. Mount Rushmore Was Infected with The Sickness.

July 01, 2021 07:01 - 2 hours

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. MSNBC’s Willie Geist joined Paul at the height of the pandemic on July 3, 2020 in Episode 66. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From July 3, 2020: Willie Geist (@WillieGeist) is one of the most beloved leaders in American media. The co-host of Morning Joe and Host of NBC’s TODAY, Sunday TODA...

120. Rosie Perez. Summertime Special (REWIND). The Legendary Actress Sounds Off on the Weinstein Verdict, the Problem with Bernie, and Rosie vs Rudy (Giuliani).

June 24, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. The iconic actress Rosie Perez joined Paul fresh off the Weinstein verdict on February 27, 2020 in Episode 48. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From February 27, 2020 - Episode 48: Legendary actor and activist Rosie Perez (@RosiePerezBklyn) is a fighter. And this is the Oscar-nominated icon...

119. Wes Moore. Father’s Day Special (REWIND). Candidate For Governor of Maryland, Best-Selling Author and Veteran. On Fatherhood, Leadership, Crime and Inspiration.

June 17, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. Wes Moore recently declared his candidacy for Governor of Maryland, and this one is more relevant than ever. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  Wes Moore (@iamWesMoore) is an inspiring force for good and one of the most exciting and dynamic leaders in America. Wes is a best-selling author, ac...

118. Stephen Colbert (Rewind). A Look Back at the Best of the Best. Taking on Trump, The Supreme Court Battle, Breonna Taylor, Leadership After Loss, Stephen’s Dog Eating Ai Weiwei’s Art, Joking in the Face of Fear, Laughing at the Devil.

June 10, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As America emerges from the pandemic, we’re taking a little break. But never fear, we’ve got a lot of good stuff in the archive. And if you’ve never heard this episode you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, we think you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From Episode 78 - Sept. 25, 2020: “Fear is the mind killer. If you’re laughing you’re not afraid.” Wise words in this groundbreaking new episode from a truly iconic guest: Stephen Colbert (@StephenAtHome). Stephen joins us ...

117. Henry Rollins (REWIND). A look back at one of the best of the best. The punk legend and activist shares the epic story of his big break. And sounds off on the state of America.

June 03, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As America emerges from the pandemic, we’re taking a little break. But never fear, we’ve got a lot of good stuff in the archive. And if you’ve never heard this episode you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, we think you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From Feb. 29, 2020: With America disrupted and divided like never before in our lifetime, what better time to sit down with the American icon, punk rock legend, thought-leader, author, political activist and spoken-word mas...

116: Sebastian Junger. FREEDOM. The Iconic Author on His Must-Read New Book, Memorial Day, Losing His Close Friend in Combat, Walking Across America, Almost Dying, President Biden, the Soul of America, Smoking Cigarettes and Getting Shot At.

May 27, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

Sebastian Junger 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’s also a true badass and adventurer—the spirit of Hemingway—who joined us in Episode 100 and is back to talk candidly about his highly-anticipated, sure-to-be-best-selling new book, Freedom.    Throughout history, humans have been driven by the quest for two cherished ideals: community and freedom. The two don’t coexist easily: we value...

115. Molly McKew. Unpacking Cyber Attacks Hitting America--from SolarWinds to the Colonial Pipeline. Who is DarkSide? What Will Hackers Hit Next? Congress Votes To Investigate the Insurrection. Lollapalooza, Talladega & T-ball.

May 20, 2021 07:11 - 1 hour

We’re finally winning the war against the coronavirus. But what about the next war? While many in Congress want you to breeze past the pandemic failures, or the failures to stop a predictable and preventable insurrection attack, new attacks are happening right now. And have been happening for years. And as the summer comes and Americans get less vigilant, our enemies are attacking.  Russian-backed hackers attacked our 2016 election. Last year, more Russian-backed hackers executed the SolarWin...

114. Wes Chatham. How The Expanse in 2350 is Like America in 2021. One of the Greatest Denzel Stories You’ll Ever Hear. From Navy Petty Officer Third Class to Hollywood Badass. Drinking vs Smoking. Liz Cheney vs the GOP. FORs (Friends of Ron Perlman).

May 13, 2021 08:22 - 1 hour

“Liz Cheney is 1 of only 10 Republican House members who voted to impeach President Mayhem over his role in inciting the deadly January 6 insurrection and attack on America at our Capitol. And never forget--even as time passes--almost 6 months later--it was an insurrection. It was an attack on America.  But too many in the media are still weakly mincing words and calling the events of January 6 a "riot". It wasn't a riot. It was an attack on our Capitol. It was an insurrection. Stand up, have...

113: Ruben Gallego. Congressman & USMC Veteran. Inside The Capitol On January 6th. Political Mortal Kombat. Majorie Taylor Greene Calls Him a “Coward.” Protecting Allies in Afghanistan. Will He Run Against Sen Kyrsten Sinema? Biden is AWOL on Burn Pits.

May 06, 2021 07:52 - 1 hour

Mortal Kombat is a new movie based on the old video game. And now, it’s the #1 film in America. If you don’t know, it’s about fighting. And it’s also the state of affairs in Washington. In 2021, every day in Congress is a kind of mortal combat.  But the violence and fighting in Washington that we’ve seen in the last year--and on the January 6th attack--is not the first violence American has seen in the Capitol. It’s just the first seen by this generation.  Our host, activist, author and comba...

112: Paul Begala. America Is Bouncing Off Bottom. Are Democrats Winning or Losing? Biden’s Address & First 100 Days. The Future of Independent Politics. Can Matthew McConaughey Win in Texas? Guns or Shovels. Are Dems Too Woke? Cursing, Drinking & Twitter.

April 29, 2021 07:29 - 1 hour

“Thank you for your patience.” That’s how President Biden ended his historic and unusual address to the joint session of Congress. After all we’ve been through over the last four years. And after the last year especially, America was in the roughest place of our lifetime. And we hit rock bottom on January 6, 2021. That was the low point of our lifetime. And damn, it was low. But America is now bouncing off bottom. And Biden’s speech laid it out. 100 days are down. The pandemic is on the run. ...

111. Baratunde Thurston. Derek Chauvin is Guilty. Analyzing Media Coverage of the Trial. How The Hell Do We Process All This? The George Floyd Murder is the Mỹ Lai Massacre of Policing. Going to High School with Jon Bernthal.

April 22, 2021 12:55 - 1 hour

The biggest verdict of or time is in and Officer Derek Chauvin is guilty of murder. Is America guilty of celebrating too much? Is this a turning point--or just a one-off? Did American political leaders do enough? What are the parallels between the 2020 George Floyd murder video and 2002 beheading video of journalist Daniel Pearl? What happens next? Baratunde Thurston (@Baratunde) is back to help us break it all down. The dynamic activist, host of the popular podcast How to Citizen, and autho...

110. Jon Bernthal. The Iconic Actor Gets Real About America at a Crossroads. Defining Toughness, and Insurrectionist Using The Punisher Skull. George Floyd, Fatherhood, Sativa, DMX, Pitbulls. Biden's Afghanistan Drawdown.

April 15, 2021 07:25 - 1 hour

President Biden has declared the war in Afghanistan over. The George Floyd murder case continues to unfold. Coronavirus variants are spreading fast. And the J & J vaccine is on pause. It’s still a tough time in America. 100 days into the Biden presidency, things remain pretty damn turbulent. And Americans are still deeply divided. But millions are vaccinated, our troops are coming home from the longest war in our history, and summer will be here soon. And we are finally looking back on the la...

109. Ethan Nadelmann. Pre-4/20 Marijuana Special Episode. New York Legalizes Cannabis. Should All Drugs Be Legal? Can Weed Spark America’s Post-Pandemic Economic Recovery?

April 08, 2021 07:56 - 1 hour

The marijuana reform movement is on fire. In the election last year, beneath all the Biden and Trump drama, every single state-level cannabis ballot initiative passed--from New Jersey to Mississippi to South Dakota. And now, New York state has legalized the green stuff. Federal legalization is gaining steam, the industry is exploding and everyone wants in on the weed movement. Marijuana is no longer a partisan or fringe issue--it’s popular, mainstream and key to the future of the American eco...

108. Rick Sorkin & Sharon Koppelman Spring Break Special! Meet The Son and Mother Hosts of the New Righteous Media Pod: Everybody & Their Mother Has a Podcast. Also, Cannabis is Finally Legal in NY!

April 04, 2021 17:13 - 1 hour

It’s spring break this week for millions of kids across America. School’s out, Passover, Easter, and March Madness are also here, and millions nationwide are spending extra time with family. And so are we. In this special episode, we are thrilled to introduce you to two new members of our media family: the captivating hosts of the newest Righteous Media production: Everybody and Their Mother Has a Podcast.  Rick and his mom (Sharon) are quarantining together in a secret desert location. And i...

107. Jake Wood. Reinforcements Are Here. How Team Rubicon Vaccinated 617,000 Americans The Marine Sniper Breaks Down Our Mass Shooting Problem Fighting Domestic Extremism Upstream With Purpose Coping With The Grind Jake’s New Baby Is A Hero

March 25, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

Things are warming up in America. And hope is finally spreading faster than the virus. It looks like the second half of 2021 will be a whole lot better than the last year. That’s thanks to the dramatic increase in focus, coordination and teamwork. It’s also thanks to courageous leaders like Jake Wood (@JakeWoodTR)--social entrepreneur, Marine Corps combat veteran, author and CEO of the disaster relief powerhouse non-profit Team Rubicon.  Jake at the start of the pandemic in Episode 54. One y...

107: Jake Wood. Reinforcements Are Here. How Team Rubicon Vaccinated 617,000 Americans The Marine Sniper Breaks Down Our Mass Shooting Problem Fighting Domestic Extremism Upstream With Purpose Coping With The Grind Jake’s New Baby Is A Hero

March 25, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

Things are warming up in America. And hope is finally spreading faster than the virus. It looks like the second half of 2021 will be a whole lot better than the last year. That’s thanks to the dramatic increase in focus, coordination and teamwork. It’s also thanks to courageous leaders like Jake Wood (@JakeWoodTR)--social entrepreneur, Marine Corps combat veteran, author and CEO of the disaster relief powerhouse non-profit Team Rubicon.  Jake at the start of the pandemic in Episode 54. One y...

106. Bianna Golodryga. Should Schools Reopen Now? How Texas Represents the Future of America (Good and Bad). Breaking Down Russia, Putin, Navalny and What’s Next. March Madness, the Advantages of Running and One Shining Moment.

March 18, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As we finally spring ahead and March Madness begins, Independent Americans is the #1 seed in your bracket for fresh, independent news, politics, culture and inspiration. It’s a no-BS perspective you won’t find anywhere else in the media. One that always dominates the paint on national security, foreign affairs, leadership, and social impact.  March Madness is here. But not just the basketball tournament. Schools are reopening, millions are getting the vaccine, and help from the government is ...

106: Bianna Golodryga. Should Schools Reopen Now? How Texas Represents the Future of America (Good and Bad). Breaking Down Russia, Putin, Navalny and What’s Next. March Madness, the Advantages of Running and One Shining Moment.

March 18, 2021 07:01 - 1 hour

As we finally spring ahead and March Madness begins, Independent Americans is the #1 seed in your bracket for fresh, independent news, politics, culture and inspiration. It’s a no-BS perspective you won’t find anywhere else in the media. One that always dominates the paint on national security, foreign affairs, leadership, and social impact.  March Madness is here. But not just the basketball tournament. Schools are reopening, millions are getting the vaccine, and help from the government is ...

105. Wes Moore. Robin Hood’s CEO on One Year of The Pandemic Coming 2 America, Harry & Meghan & The Expanse How the COVID Child Tax Credit Will Transform America Is Wes Running for Governor? The Murder of 2LT Richard Collins, Extremism & Mountains

March 11, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

As spring finally nears, Independent Americans blooms as your fresh, trusted, independent source for news, politics, culture and inspiration. It’s a smart, dynamic perspective you won’t find anywhere else in the media. And one that’s always grounded in a focus on national security, leadership and social impact.  The weather is getting warmer. The vaccine is coming. Spring is coming. And Wes Moore is back! After a brutal winter, the hope of spring is blooming across the country. And it’s the p...

104. Malcolm Nance. The Nostradamus of National Security Returns for a Threat Analysis World Tour. Will Extremists and QAnon Hit Again This Week? Biden Hits Iran, Russia and Saudi Arabia. Fox News’ Laura Ingraham Hits Malcolm. Malcolm hits back.

March 04, 2021 08:30 - 1 hour

Independent Americans is your trusted, independent source for news, politics, culture and inspiration. It’s a smart, fresh, candid perspective you won’t find anywhere else in the media. And we’ll always be grounded in a focus on national security, foreign affairs and domestic threats.  Despite the lack of media coverage, America is still very much at war. While the rest of the media obsesses over Trump’s CPAC appearance, Ted Cruz’s travel, and changes to Mr Potato Head and Dr Seuss, we’re dig...

103. Darren Walker. Ford Foundation President. Why Hope Is the Oxygen Of Democracy. How Philanthropy is Fighting COVID, Extremism, Inequality. Why Texas Is a Model for What’s Broken in America. How Work Gets Done in the Gray Space. Perseverance.

February 25, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

Independent Americans is your trusted, independent source for news, politics, culture and inspiration. It’s a smart, fresh, candid perspective you won’t find anywhere else in the media.  Winter is dragging on, but we’re bringing light to warm things up. Our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is tearing into a pivotal week in the quest for accountability after the Jan 6 attack, Biden’s first month in office, 500,000 dead from COVID, fallout from the Texas power outages, and NASA’s landing a...

102. Ken Feinberg. What Is A Human Life Worth? How Should America Face Another Tragedy? The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Special Master & Legal Expert on a 1/6 Commission, Justice, Merrick Garland & Independent Leadership in Times of Crisis & Loss.

February 18, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

Independent Americans is your trusted, independent source for news, politics, culture and inspiration. It’s a smart, fun, candid perspective you won’t find anywhere else in the media.  Guest Ken Feinberg is a master of disaster. He’s a leader who has been asked multiple times, by multiple Presidents, to do the impossible: to determine the dollar value of a human life after an unimaginable tragedy.  From Agent Orange after Vietnam, to 9/11, to the BP oil spill, to the Boston Marathon bombing, ...

101. Evan McMullin. The Independent Presidential Candidate on the Future of Independent Politics. The CIA Veteran Breaks Down the Insurrection. The Former GOP Strategist Analyzes the Impeachment and Destruction of the Party He Once Served.

February 11, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

Welcome to Season 2. Yep, we’ve changed the name of the show.  For 100 episodes, we were united in our understandable anger. We were united in highlighting for others issues that had us angry--and should have everyone angry. And we were united in turning that anger into positive impact. That positive impact inspired action, supported legislation, elevated courageous voices, united people of all backgrounds, drove change--and left you entertained and inspired.  But in the last few weeks, much ...

100: Sebastian Junger. The Bestselling Author and Award-Winning Filmmaker Dissects Our Country in Crisis. Exploring the Tortured and Fighting Spirit of America. Redefining Patriotism, Leadership and Freedom. Our Real Super Bowl.

February 04, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

Before he was slain serving as a Capitol Hill Police officer, Brian Sicknick served in the Air Force. Officer Sicknick survived multiple deployments to the Middle East, only to be killed at home by his fellow citizens inside his own nation’s capital. He was the first casualty in America’s new war with itself.  Our Congress, our military, the Republican party, and families nationwide are being torn apart in a domestic war that is likely to expand and deepen in painful days to come.  Sebastia...

100. Sebastian Junger. The Bestselling Author and Award-Winning Filmmaker Dissects Our Country in Crisis. Exploring the Tortured and Fighting Spirit of America. Redefining Patriotism, Leadership and Freedom. Our Real Super Bowl.

February 04, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

Before he was slain serving as a Capitol Hill Police officer, Brian Sicknick served in the Air Force. Officer Sicknick survived multiple deployments to the Middle East, only to be killed at home by his fellow citizens inside his own nation’s capital. He was the first casualty in America’s new war with itself.  Our Congress, our military, the Republican party, and families nationwide are being torn apart in a domestic war that is likely to expand and deepen in painful days to come.  Sebastian ...

99. DISPATCH SPECIAL: Fred Guttenberg. The Heroic Parkland Dad Confronts Representative Majorie Taylor Greene. On The Anniversary of His Daughter’s Death, A Father Is Fighting A Member of Congress Who Says It Didn’t Happen. How You Can Help.

February 02, 2021 04:38 - 36 minutes

Just when you think things can't shock you anymore, politics in America finds a way.  We now all know about Q Anon. And we’re learning more and more about the role it/they played in the January 6 terrorist attack on our Capitol. And over the next few weeks, as the second impeachment trial of Donald Trump unfolds, we’ll all learn more about the conspirators, ringleaders, supporters — traitors — who made it all possible. And who are still conspiring right now. Many in the shadows of the interne...

EPISODE 98: Charlotte Clymer Returns. Understanding the End of Trump’s Transgender Military Ban. Vetting Denis McDonough For VA Secretary. Biden’s Busy First Week. The Next Domestic Terrorism Threat.

January 28, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

Maybe you’ve slept better recently knowing that Trump no longer has access to our military. And to our nukes. But stakes are still high. As high as ever. And we’re gonna continue to break it down. This is not the time to rest---or even celebrate. That time is over. This is the time to stay focused and to stay vigilant.  In this fiery episode, our host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is again joined by dynamic transgeneder activist, writer and Army veteran, Charlotte Clymer (@CMClymer). They ...

98. Charlotte Clymer Returns. Understanding the End of Trump’s Transgender Military Ban. Vetting Denis McDonough For VA Secretary. Biden’s Busy First Week. The Next Domestic Terrorism Threat.

January 28, 2021 08:01 - 1 hour

Maybe you’ve slept better recently knowing that Trump no longer has access to our military. And to our nukes. But stakes are still high. As high as ever. And we’re gonna continue to break it down. This is not the time to rest---or even celebrate. That time is over. This is the time to stay focused and to stay vigilant.  In this fiery episode, our host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is again joined by dynamic transgender activist, writer and Army veteran, Charlotte Clymer (@CMClymer). They br...

97. SPECIAL DISPATCH: Wayne Smith. Reflections on Inauguration. “The Oracle” Returns. How We Heal Our Broken Country. The Promise the Future Holds.

January 22, 2021 03:47 - 46 minutes

We finally have a new president. A president who wants to be a uniter. A president we all hope can reach beyond partisanship. No matter how hard it will be.  This post-inauguration special of The Dispatches features an important conversation with a leader who is a national voice of reason — Wayne Smith—a man we call, “The Oracle.” He joined us back in Episode 63 of Angry Americans in June of last year, and he’s here again to help us get some perspective on one of the most turbulent times ever...

96. SPECIAL DISPATCH: Dan Lamothe. The Washington Post Pentagon Reporter. BREAKING: 12 National Guard Soldiers Removed from Inauguration Duty. How Safe Is DC? Inside the Military Presence in Washington. Screening 25,000 Troops for Extremism.

January 20, 2021 05:05 - 36 minutes

This pre-inauguration special installment of The Dispatches features an urgent conversation with a leader who is covering maybe the most important story in America right now: our national, military response to the rising, imminent domestic threat at the inauguration and beyond.  As 25,000 National Guard troops envelope Washington, DC, The Washington Post is now reporting that 12 members of the National Guard have just been removed from inauguration duty due after security screenings. At least...

DISPATCH SPECIAL: Jason Dempsey. Are We Facing an American Insurgency? What Violence Is Yet To Come? Impeachment Gut Check.

January 14, 2021 10:01 - 35 minutes

Most of the American media is looking back. In this episode, we’re looking forward.  We are now truly a country at war. At war with the domestic terrorists. At war with the coronavirus. At war with a racist legacy. In 2021, America is at war with ourselves.  The Dispatches is a quick-hit series of breaking news podcasts hosted by Iraq war veteran, author and activist Paul Rieckhoff that gives you information and analysis you need to protect yourself and the people you care about. Dr. Jason De...

95. DISPATCH SPECIAL: Jason Dempsey. Are We Facing an American Insurgency? What Violence Is Yet To Come? Impeachment Gut Check.

January 14, 2021 10:01 - 35 minutes

Most of the American media is looking back. In this episode, we’re looking forward.  We are now truly a country at war. At war with the domestic terrorists. At war with the coronavirus. At war with a racist legacy. In 2021, America is at war with ourselves.  The Dispatches is a quick-hit series of breaking news podcasts hosted by Iraq war veteran, author and activist Paul Rieckhoff that gives you information and analysis you need to protect yourself and the people you care about. Dr. Jason De...

94. DISPATCH SPECIAL: Malcolm Nance. Is An Insurgency What Comes Next? America Under Attack.

January 12, 2021 08:01 - 39 minutes

We are now truly a country at war. At war with the domestic terrorists. At war with the coronavirus. At war with a racist legacy. In 2021, America is at war with ourselves.  The Dispatches is a quick-hit series of breaking news podcasts hosted by Iraq war veteran, author and activist Paul Rieckhoff that gives you information and analysis you need to protect yourself and the people you care about. This dispatch features an urgent conversation with America’s favorite terrorism expert: Malcolm N...

DISPATCH SPECIAL: Malcolm Nance. Is An Insurgency What Comes Next? America Under Attack.

January 12, 2021 08:01 - 39 minutes

We are now truly a country at war. At war with the domestic terrorists. At war with the coronavirus. At war with a racist legacy. In 2021, America is at war with ourselves.  The Dispatches is a quick-hit series of breaking news podcasts hosted by Iraq war veteran, author and activist Paul Rieckhoff that gives you information and analysis you need to protect yourself and the people you care about. This dispatch features an urgent conversation with America’s favorite terrorism expert: Malcolm N...

93. Chuck Hagel. Insurrection in America. Terror in the Capitol. President Mayhem blows it all up. All living SecDefs sound the alarm. The Dems take Georgia. What happens next? The former SecDef and Rieckhoff break it down.

January 07, 2021 08:24 - 44 minutes

America is under attack from within. Domestic terrorists invaded the Capitol. President Mayhem is blowing it all up on his way out. For months on Angry Americans, we warned that this could happen. It’s a dark time for all Americans. But this episode will help you understand it, unpack the causes and failures, and prepare for what comes next.  Chuck Hagel is back to break it down with our host: Army veteran and Founder of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRi...

92. Happy New Year with Henry Rollins. End 2020 and/or Start Your 2021 with the Iconic Punk Rock and Spoken Word Legend.

December 31, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour

It’s a perfect way to end 2020 and start 20201. With the American icon, punk rock legend, thought-leader, author, political activist and spoken-word master, Henry Rollins (@HenryRollins). Henry is one of the most interesting, most experienced, most entertaining, most thought-provoking activists in the world. And a conscience for America.  If you love Henry, this will give you a fix like you’ve never had before. If you don’t know Henry, welcome to a ride you won’t forget. He’s a great American...

91. Stephen Colbert, Susan Rice, Mick Foley and More: What Makes You Happy? The 2020 Christmas/Hanukkah/Festivus/Holiday Special. Gifts of Insight from Our Best Guests to End Your Year On A High Note With The 4 I’s.

December 24, 2020 08:03 - 22 minutes

Whew! We made it. 2020 is almost over. Finally. But before it is, we want to celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Festivus and the entire holiday season with one little present of a pod for all our good little angry Americans all around the world. Our host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has coordinated with Santa for one last holiday gift for you: a special holiday episode with some of our best guests from an incredible year of riveting and inspiring conversations.  In every one of our conversatio...

90. Jason Alexander. He’s back! Our Second Annual Festivus Holiday Special with Jason. Rieckhoff’s Christmas List For America. VA Secretary Wilkie Must Resign. Tom Cruise is Not Wrong. COVID Blessed. Pancakes or Waffles?

December 18, 2020 06:30 - 1 hour

Festivus is here again! And so is the great Jason Alexander. Star of stage and screen, winner of Tonys and Golden Globes, loved worldwide as George Constanza on Seinfeld, and insightful dropper of knowledge. Festivus is a secular holiday, made famous by the show Seinfeld and is celebrated on December 23, as an alternative to the pressures and commercialism of the Christmas season. Like this show (and like America), Festivus was born out of anger. Righteous anger. Tom Cruise righteous anger. G...

89. Admiral James Stavridis. The Brilliant Navy 4-Star and Rieckhoff Break Down the Pandemic, Trump vs the Pentagon, Biden’s Controversial Picks for Veterans Affairs and Defense, The Future of Independent Politics, Cold Martinis and Fiat Convertibles.

December 11, 2020 05:24 - 1 hour

The anniversary of the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor was this week. And almost exactly 79 years later, American is experiencing a Pearl Harbor loss of life from the pandemic every single day. And just like after Pearl Harbor, our national response will be led by America’s military. It’s the Department of Defense (and the Department of Veterans Affairs) that will help distribute and administer the vaccine nationwide to everyone. Both agencies are in chaos--and were already under political...

88. Dr. Paul Haser. Winter is Here. Inside an Emergency Room Fighting the Virus. COVID is Like Glitter. New York: From the Pearl Harbor of the American Pandemic to Occupied France. Trump Vetoing the Defense Budget. Vive La Resistance!

December 04, 2020 05:25 - 1 hour

All year long on this show, we’ve talked about the three storms that have been battering and bashing our country. Three storms that will determine the future of our country. The Pandemic. The Election. The Racial Reckoning--anchored by the Black Lives Matter movement. Three devastating, history-defining storms. They’ve ebbed and flowed all year long. They’re the top story of your newspaper, your news website, your Twitter feed. And sometimes they go quiet, only to rage back to the top a few w...

88. Dr. Paul Haser. Winter is Here. Inside an Emergency Room Fighting the Virus. COVID is Like Glitter. New York: From the Pearl Harbor of the American Pandemic to Occupied France. Trump Vetoing the Defense Budget. Pentagon Purge Continues.

December 04, 2020 05:25 - 1 hour

Winter is here. And we’ve got one last very hard month of 2020. But as the weather turns cold, our country is burning with the virus. With the pandemic surging nationwide, our independent host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks it down and rips into the most under-reported story in America: Trump’s ongoing purge of the Pentagon. Our national security is under attack from within. Trump’s hidden war against our warriors--and our Department of War--is escalating. Another top Pentagon offici...

87. Rachel Maddow (Replay). Thanksgiving 2020. A Conversation to Warm Your Heart, Feed Your Brain, and Inspire Your Soul.

November 26, 2020 08:03 - 1 hour

2020 has been a feast of insanity and stress. But even in a pandemic, there is still reason to be thankful. And this Thanksgiving season, after 86 episodes of Angry Americans, we’re extremely thankful for all the important, inspiring and iconic guests that have joined us. And few have been more popular than Rachel Maddow (@Maddow). [9:10] Loved by the left, often attacked by the right, but respected by all, Rachel recently disclosed on national TV that her partner of over 25 years was hit exc...

86. Chuck D. Fighting the Power (2020 Remix). Public Enemy’s Iconic Founder on Trump, Biden, Harris, Black Lives Matter, SpaceX, Getting Old, Advice from Prince, the Future of Music, the NY Knicks.

November 20, 2020 16:42 - 1 hour

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---unplugged and uninterrupted. Just when our country needs it the most.  Chuck D (@MisterChuckD) [35:37] is one of the most iconic and important American artists of the last century. He’s an activist, organizer, inspiration, and the ultimate ...

85. General Barry McCaffrey. Biden Wins. BUT “You should be alarmed”. America in Crisis. Chaos at the Pentagon. Another Secretary of Defense Goes Down. The Most Volatile Veterans Day in our Lifetime. Chappelle and Starting Over.

November 13, 2020 21:47 - 1 hour

No matter what Tucker Carlson or your crazy uncle says, Joe Biden defeated Donald Trump in the 2020 election for President of the United States. Yes, he did it. Yes, we did it. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris won. America won. We won. Trump lost. Authoritarianism lost. Trumpism lost. History is made. The good one won. The bad guy lost. Yes, there is reason to celebrate. But that shit’s over. This is no time to take a victory lap, or nurse a hangover. Even when world leaders are calling to congrat...

Guests

Malcolm Nance
8 Episodes
Jon Stewart
4 Episodes
Wes Moore
3 Episodes
Zainab Salbi
3 Episodes
Ethan Nadelmann
2 Episodes
Fred Guttenberg
2 Episodes
Howard Schultz
2 Episodes
Peter Berg
2 Episodes
Rick Wilson
2 Episodes
Samantha Bee
2 Episodes
Dean Kamen
1 Episode
Denis McDonough
1 Episode
Pete Buttigieg
1 Episode
Scott MacFarlane
1 Episode
Tommy Vietor
1 Episode

Books

The White House
2 Episodes

Twitter Mentions

@paulrieckhoff 217 Episodes
@angryamericans 58 Episodes
@indy_americans 23 Episodes
@paulbegala 20 Episodes
@mizzenandmain 14 Episodes
@bravosierra_usa 9 Episodes
@serrarob 8 Episodes
@malcolmnance 7 Episodes
@ijasonalexander 6 Episodes
@weareoscarmike 5 Episodes
@danlamothe 5 Episodes
@mattgallagher0 4 Episodes
@amymcgrathky 4 Episodes
@adamkinzinger 4 Episodes
@maddow 3 Episodes
@cirincione 3 Episodes
@cmclymer 3 Episodes
@soledadobrien 3 Episodes
@tvietor08 3 Episodes
@mrchuckd 3 Episodes