Union organizer, mechanic, first-time candidate and superstar independent Navy veteran, Dan Osborn (@OsobornForSenate) is back and he’s here to let us know what it was like to run the highest profile independent political race since Ross Perot, how he broke through, and what’s next for him and the movement. You met him here first back in May in Episode 280 and then again right before the elections in Episode 303. And although he lost to Republican incumbent Senator Deb Fischer, Dan’s campaign created a template for future races and laid the groundwork to help the movement grow in his home state Nebraska and nationwide. And presents lots of lessons for Republicans and Democrats too.  He’s shocked the political world. But more importantly, he woke people up. Woke people up to the idea that there could be a better way. And we’re always going to take time to listen to and salute anybody that does that. And, of course unfortunately, there are some of the usual suspects and a few new characters that get the opposite of the salute. As Trump’s administration coalesces there are some familiar and unsavory options coming forward. Most notably, Pete Hegseth has emerged as the likely next SECDEF, a move which has your host Paul Rieckhoff a little concerned and a whole lot of pissed off.  Every episode is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and check out their election tracker to follow all of the IVA candidates.  -WATCH video of Paul and Dan’s conversation. -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/ Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The results are in. And America is very different now. If you need a dose of clarity, independent analysis, and inspiration, Paul Rieckhoff’s got you covered in the candid new pod. And, he offers reason for hope in the results of 11 independent vet candidates who ran in races nationwide. Many of these folks, were guests on this show. Now we find out how they fared. And, a reflection ahead of a Veterans Day most Americans forgot is coming on Monday.  Every episode is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and check out their election tracker to follow all of the IVA candidates.  -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/ Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Labor Day weekend was nice–if you got to get away or enjoy it. The weather was lovely in most parts of the country. But summer is now over. School is back in session. The craziest election season of our lifetime is upon us. And damn, summer already seems far away.  Trump and Harris are bombing away at full throttle now. And fighting for the coveted “swing voters” in swing states. But who are these powerful and mysterious voters? What do these mostly independent Americans really care about most? Why do we have to keep talking about Robert F Kennedy Jr? Why is Trump’s Arlington controversy still in the news? What did Senator John McCain’s son have to say? Can we please go back to summer?!?! And meanwhile, war continues to rage around the world. Including involving US troops in…Iraq?!?! While Israel recovered six hostages brutally murdered by Hammas, Ukrainian civilians continue to be bombed and rocketed by Putin. The world is on fire and our broken political system is only making it worse.  So as summer fades and fall’s chill creeps in, our host, Paul Rieckhoff, will get you ready for a new school year, a wild fall election season, the 24th anniversary of 9/11 next week, AND the start of football! Because we’re all gonna need a break from news and politics this fall especially. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that now call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -If you’re an Independent VETERAN especially, check out Independent Veterans of America.  -Join us for IVA’s 9/11 Celebration of Service at Fraunces Tavern in NYC from 6-8pm on September 11, 2024. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s new independent and veteran-owned media company. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/ Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ukraine 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 great one. With one of my favorite thinkers in America.  And one of my favorite people in America. Sebastian Junger (@SebastianJunger) is back! 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 116 - May 27, 2021 and Episode 100 - February 4, 2021. He is back to talk candidly about life, fatherhood, almost dying, Ukraine, social media, politics and more.  Every episode of Independent Americans breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Check out Sebastian’s website with more info about Freedom–and all his other outstanding books. And more about Vets Town Halls happening across America.  -Hear the new music from Maneskin here.  - Watch video of Paul and Sebastian’s conversation here. -Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get IA merch.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’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 Brussels with the inside scoop. And a look inside what it’s like to travel with America’s most powerful military leader.  The Washington Post’s Dan Lamothe (@DanLamothe) is one of the best military and Pentagon reporters in America. He has written about the US Armed Forces for more than a decade, traveling extensively, embedding with each service, and covering combat in Afghanistan numerous times.  Dan has joined us on this show three times. He joined us for Episode 96 in January of 2021. And again for Episode 154 back in February 2022 to talk about then new documents that revealed the U.S. military was intensely frustrated with the administration over the Afghanistan evacuation. And he joined us for Episode 185—one year after the collapse of Afghanistan—to share the insights and moving takeaways from his exclusive new story. And the intrepid reporter is again breaking news that you need to know more about.  The fighting never ends. The political fighting. And the actual fighting. And the leaders leading the fight make all the difference. Whether it’s President Zelensky. Or new Maryland Governor Wes Moore.  If you want or need a reason to be inspired and motivated, look to Annapolis this week and until further notice. Look to Maryland. And look to Wes Moore and his family and team. AND the first guest of this show to be governor of Maryland.  You heard him on this show. If you haven’t, go back and listen to Episodes 10 way back in 2019 and and 105 in March 2021. He might be the first guest of this show to be elected president too. And Rieckhoff digs into it. Along with news about the US Navy veteran released by Russia this week that you probably didn’t hear about—and a breakdown of all the NFL playoff games—and predictions!  Welcome to the future of politics--the future of war–and the future of all things. Welcome to another Ukraine war report.  Every episode of Independent Americans breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  - Watch video of Paul and Dan’s conversation here. - Check out Cole Williams - Sign Of The Times [Live] On WWOZ feat. Papa Mali. It’s the amazing track featured in this pod.  -Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get IA merch.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 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 American special forces veteran, a combat journalist, and the husband of a Ukrainian–who is telling the story of this war—-through his life in it: Nolan Peterson (@NolanWPeterson).  A former U.S. Air Force Special Operations pilot and veteran of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, Nolan Peterson is Senior Editor for Coffee or Die Magazine, an acclaimed war correspondent, and a globetrotting travel writer whose adventures have taken him to all seven continents.  And he breaks down what’s happening now in Ukraine now: in Kiev, in Mariupol, in Bucha, in bunkers, in Ukrainian hearts–and into the future. He tells us all how to Stand by Ukraine. Check out all his recent articles from the war in Ukraine.  And as mentioned in the pod, here’s how you can send your own customized artillery shell to Russia with love.  Previous appearance: Episode 170 - May 12, 2022 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 national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  -Get more info about Final Five Voting NYC, the new org we’re supporting that was mentioned in the show.  -Learn more about Operation Independent.  -Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Nolan’s conversation here. -WATCH Paul on NewsNation every Thursday at 11AM with Mari Hughes and every Friday night with Chris Cuomo for I’ll Drink To That! Here’s last week’s segment.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the holidays.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Welcome 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 Zaleski recommended in the pod.  Here’s that great track by Jackson Dean. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by author, activist and social entrepreneur Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 50% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  - Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - Watch videos of all our guest conversations here.  - Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  - Learn more about Operation Independents. A strategic plan to empower independent voters across America.  - Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  - Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for winter weather.  - Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As 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 you get smarter, predict better, and of course, stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. And that crucial week, we all had a chance to see  what could happen if we’re willing to pay that price. It was an inspiring moment and it’s well reflected in this behind the scenes moment. It’s content that is normally only for members of our Patreon community. But since it’s that time of year we’re dropping this gift down your chimney. We hope you love it as much as we do.  We’ll be back in January with more new guests and shows and as always Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by author, activist and social entrepreneur Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 50% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  - Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - Watch Paul and Michael’s conversation here. - Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  - Learn more about Operation Independents.  - Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  - Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for winter weather.  - Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 As 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 #AfghanAdjustmentAct. Maybe Zelensky can visit with our veterans and allies camped outside. And maybe he can get President Biden to do the same. Since he still hasn’t yet. Our politicians have failed to get this done. Zelensky is a man of action. Maybe he can get it done. #WTF #SaveOurAllies It would be an amazing holiday surprise–and a winter blast of joy! Which is what the world cup final turned out to be!  What a beautiful thing. That was the greatest sporting event we’ve ever seen. The quality, drama and magnitude was unprecedented. It’s been a long time since something has given so much of the world so much joy and positive excitement. And a truly incredible global moment. The most globally shared thing we’ve had on Earth in a long while. Let’s all try to keep this feeling for as long as possible.  And before we close the door on another amazing year we’ve got a special gift-wrapped Christmas classic from Rieckhoff Claus and the whole team of hard-working elves at Righteous Media. It’s one of our “‘best of the bonus” episodes featuring Jason Alexander (@IJasonAlexander). It’s content that is normally only for members of our Patreon community. But since it’s that time of year (and the elves are tired as hell) we’re dropping this gift down your chimney. We hope you love it as much as we do.  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 50% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  -Learn more about Operation Independents.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the holidays.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 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 help us understand ourselves, our past, and our future. A future that has a whole new perspective for him with the recent birth of his first grandchild.   He is of course best known for his role as George Costanza in maybe the greatest television series of all time, Seinfeld. He was nominated for seven Primetime Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards. He won a Tony Award. And he’s a truly inspiring, fascinating and entertaining man.   He’s defined American culture and entertainment for decades. And, all the while, he’s been deeply committed to his craft---to his family---and to his country. He’s raised money for charities. He’s fought for causes and candidates. And when his sister was struck with a devastating disease, he fought for her--and for others like her facing the same terrible disease.   If 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 two times he’s joined us. It’s the perfect holiday conversation. For whatever holiday you celebrate.  Previous Jason Alexander Festivus appearances: December 19, 2019 - Episode 38 December 18, 2020 - Episode 90   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 50% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  -Learn more about Operation Independents.  -Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Jason’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the holidays.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tis 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. And that helping is contagious. Even when America needs help ourselves. The spirit of America—and the spirit of not being the world’s police, but being a helper, being a global citizen, being a good neighbor. We must continue to set the example. From America, help will come.  And our guest this week has a unique perspective on what that means— and what all of it means. As one of the first journalists allowed to enter and report on the capture of Saddam Hussein, later covering the conflict in Gaza as well as the Arab Spring. He understands the middle east. He understands America. He understands Georgia. And his unique perspective will help shed light on the Georgia special election results, the growing American insurgency, revolution in Iran, as well as the war in Ukraine. He’s Ayman Mohyeldin (@AymanM).  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 national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  -Learn more about Operation Independent.  -Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Ayman’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the holidays.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As 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, activist and father. And now, co-founder of the Forward party.  You’re gonna hear his plan for independents. And how he’s working to meet this moment. And in the weeks and months to come, you'll hear from other top and rising leaders about what they’re doing to meet this moment–and specifically to unite and empower independents to protect, defend and improve our country.  But before we get to Andrew’s plan, it’s time for you to hear about mine.  As we’ve long discussed on this show, in this moment, we are at war. We are at war against enemies foreign and domestic. And we are at war for the soul of America. And if you want to win a war, you need a war plan.  Like every plan, it will change. That’s good design. It’s always evolving in response to changes on the ground. As the only saying goes, no plan will survive enemy contact. So I expect it to evolve. I expect it to adapt, improvise and overcome. It’s far from perfect. But I also learned we can’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. And with stakes as high as they are in America right now, we don’t have any more time to waste. So it’s time to stop revising and editing and start executing. And in some ways, we already have been.  Independent Americans is not just a podcast. Not just a brand. It’s a movement. And every good movement needs a plan. And now, I’m ready to finally share with you mine.  I’ve talked about it a bit for the last few months. And teased a few pieces. And now, as the election is finally over, the year is almost at an end, and we reach Episode 200, my early Christmas gift to everyone is my strategy. My plan. My plan to build an Independent political infrastructure to save America. And it’s called Operation Independents. 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 national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  -Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Andrew’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As 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 uncertainty that no other group of children has had to experience. From COVID cancellations and ambiguous school policies, to social media pressure, to whatever weird stuff hasn’t hit our radar yet — the kids are not all right.  And so as many of us gather together with our families, we wanted to take some time to reflect and to get some answers and ideas on how to move forward past the trauma we’ve all just experienced. And we’ve got a returning guest that’s the perfect voice to hear from on all of it. Anya Kamenetz (@Anya1Anya) joined us in Episode 57 in May of 2020 to break down the beginnings of the pandemic’s effect on children. And now that we’ve moved past it, she’s back to share the lessons learned and what we can expect going forward. Even if you don’t have kids this is one that you probably need to hear.  From Richard Fierro, the heroic veteran who prevented the loss of many more lives in the Colorado Springs shooting, to the war in Ukraine, to Kari Lake refusing to accept the election results in Arizona — the news doesn’t quit. And neither do we. So while you cook your turkey, tofurkey or whatever else you’re eating this thanksgiving Thursday, we put together this special episode that is jam packed with the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. We hope it can warm your belly as you drive, ride, or lounge this Thanksgiving season.  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 national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Read the New York Daily News OpEd by John Opdycke and Sal Albanese on the pivotal role of independents in New York’s elections here. -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  -Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Anya’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The campaign season rages on and it’s another week with another incident of Trump disrespecting the troops and refusing to follow the rules. It’s just another drop in the bucket to some people, but in this episode, Paul Rieckhoff breaks down why it’s a massive insult to current and former troops and a violation of the most sacred space in our country. It’s a context you’re not going to hear most places, and it’s critical to understanding the gravity of the situation. And he’s also digging into the collapse of the Kennedy Presidential campaign, a powerful admission by former UFC fighter and WWE star, Ronda Rousey, and reflecting early on the true meaning and power of 9/11. And give you a sneak preview of a special Independent Veterans of America event happening next month.  The corporate and partisan media are complicit in the dangerous dysfunction and division of our politics. There’s a constant communications battle happening behind the scenes that most Americans never see. The spin, the pitching, the pushback, the misinformation, the threats, the negotiating of access.  Most of the media is one giant self-licking ice cream cone. But not this show. We call it straight and if you don’t think so, let us know about it. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that now call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -If you’re an Independent VETERAN especially, check out Independent Veterans of America.  -Join us for IVA’s 9/11 Celebration of Service at Fraunces Tavern from 6-8pm on September 11, 2024. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s new independent and veteran-owned media company. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/ Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Welcome 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 news.  A self-proclaimed reformed political gang-banger, the former Republican Congressman, cable news pundit, and radio talk host, Joe takes us inside his old party as it becomes engulfed in a civil war. He also breaks down the flaws in the Democratic party, if he thinks anyone can beat Trump, and why he declined an invitation to join Andrew Yang’s new Forward Party.  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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Joe’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 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? What does it mean for a possible run by an independent candidate for President? And what does this midterm election mean? What is its place in history? Is this history repeating itself? Or are we starting over? Michael Beschloss (@BeschlossDC) is the perfect person to ask. He’s the winner of an Emmy award, serves as NBC News Presidential Historian, and contributes to the PBS NewsHour. He is the author of nine best-selling books, including Presidential Courage: Brave Leaders and How They Changed America, 1789-1989, Jacqueline Kennedy: Historic Conversations on Life with John F. Kennedy (co-authored with Caroline Kennedy) and two volumes on President Lyndon Johnson’s secret White House tapes. Beschloss also has the largest Twitter following of any historian on earth. And in a Twitterverse filled with bots and hate and nastiness, he remains a reason to be on that website. Pouring out historic photos and perspective. He’s also a father…and a generous, kind and nice man.  On the pod recently we’ve had a Professor of Nukes.  Professors of War.  Professors of Business. Professors of Politics.  We’ve had a professor of history.  And now, we’ve got another. Michael Beschloss is a truly important, inspiring and iconic American that is shaping what America has been, what it is, and what it will be. And a truly independent American.  It’s a conversation that will help you get smarter, predict better, and of course, stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. And this week, we saw what can happen if we’re willing to pay that price. Is this history repeating itself? Or are we starting over? Welcome to Veterans Week. Welcome to the end of Election Season 2022. Welcome to the beginning of Election Season 2024.   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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Michael’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Election 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 ground us. To calm us all down with some sobering reality. Some history. Some perspective. And some wisdom.  Ken Burns (@KenBurns) is a truly important, inspiring and iconic American who is shaping what America has been, what it is, and what it will be. He is an exceptionally wise, insightful and trusted leader that we all need to hear from right now. A man who understands history--and the historic nature of these times. The perfect guest to take us into the most important election in our lifetime.  He’s the visionary mastermind behind the greatest stories of our country—of our people–of our history—and of our future. The Civil War (1990), Baseball (1994), Jazz (2001), The War (2007), The National Parks: America's Best Idea (2009), Prohibition (2011), The Roosevelts (2014), The Vietnam War (2017), and Country Music, and now, The US and the Holocaust–a new six-and-half-hour documentary directed and produced by Ken Burns and his longtime partners Lynn Novick and Sarah Botstein. They describe it as a deep dive into "America's response to one of the greatest humanitarian crises in history." He’s also the author of the new book, Our America: A Photographic History.  He’s a historian. He’s a documentarian. He’s a master storyteller. He’s a patriot. He’s our mirror. And he’s a conscience for us all.  We’ve had professors of Nukes.  Professors of War.  Professors of Business. Professors of Politics.  And now, we’ve got a professor of history. And an expert on America. It’s a conversation from inside his New Hampshire home that will help you get smarter, predict better, and of course, stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. The most important election day in our lifetime is definitely a time to stay vigilant. Welcome to Election Week 2022. With the great Ken Burns. 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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Ken’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 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 Iran. In Ukraine. In America. They’re not scared of the monsters.  Meanwhile, too many of our politicians in the US are the monsters. And they are not scared of consequences from voters. You see that in the arrogance of politicians like Florida Senator Marco Rubio, and Texas Governor Greg Abbot, and Herschel Walker. And it’s scary to imagine them in power next year. That’s what you have to fear this Halloween. Not drug dealers putting fentanyl in your kids’ candy.  Some of these monsters will stay in power. Some will gain power. And in two weeks, we’ll see which ones. Until then, there is reason to be vigilant. And reason to be scared.  Halloween is almost here. But nothing’s scarier than the political freak show unfolding before our eyes. And we’re digging into all of it from what’s next for the Jan 6 committee, to the election final stretch, to Putin’s long game on Ukraine. And our guest is a leader in the middle of all of it. And he’s wearing no masks. But he is one of the fellas.  He’s a 43-year-old Illinois Republican Congressman, Air Force combat veteran, political maverick, and fighter of the good fight. And a man of this moment in American politics. He’s catapulted to the forefront of America’s consciousness in the last few months as one of only two republicans on the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol. He’s taking shots from all sides–and he’s fighting back. Per usual.  And he’s wearing no masks. But he is one of the fellas. And he is ready to help us through the scary season. He’s our favorite about to no longer be a Republican. He’s Congressman Adam Kinzinger (@AdamKinzinger).  He first joined us back Episode 149 in January. And again for a special Ukraine War report on Episode 159 in March. And he’s back again now to break it down. Fresh off sending a subpoena to Donald Trump. And you definitely wanna hear what he’s got to share. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff 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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  - Watch the Zoom Discussion “Declaration of Independents: Veterans Sound Off on Repealing Closed Primaries” with our Paul Rieckhoff and Open Primaries. -Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.  - WATCH video of Paul and Congressman Kinzinger’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aaron 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 veteran, an astute analyst, a truth teller, TV terrorism analyst and NY Times bestselling author. He’s the one and only, Malcolm Nance (@MalcolmNance). And he’s back to drop bombs. He’s joined us many times before:  Episode 158 - March, 2022 Episode 104 - March, 2021 Episode 94 - Jan, 2021 Episode 81 - Oct, 2020 Episode 13 - June, 2019  Many of you have been asking when he’d be back. And after spending most of the last 6 months on the battlefields of Ukraine, he’s here, in an exclusive conversation, recorded from a secure site inside Ukraine. Fresh off the front lines of the battlefield with the International Legion of Ukraine–the group of military veterans that Ukrainian President Zelensky created–made up of foreigners from around the world who have joined the fight. It’s an insight into war, politics, media and WTF is NAFO and why it involves memes of dogs. It’s a fascinating and fast-paced conversation that you’ll want to share. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff 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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  - WATCH video of Paul and Malcolm’s conversation here. -As mentioned in the pod, you can learn more about how to donate to support Malcolm’s unit in Ukraine via the website here.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hurricane 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 among the first shows to state that the Russians could lose, that the Bear had no teeth. And that message was echoed by all of our expert guests throughout our coverage of the conflict. From Malcolm Nance to Congressman Adam Kinzinger to Matt Gallagher. From Quan Nguyen to Nolan Peterson. The message was clear. And consistent. Ukraine can win this. But Russia will not go quietly this fall.  And for the Russians that means one thing and one thing only. Winter is coming. And the threat of Putin using nukes is growing. Like your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has said since the beginning, this doesn’t end until Putin is gone. And Putin won’t go easy. So as his mobilization effort pushes his country to the brink of revolution, we have to revisit the greatest threat this situation presents. The nukes. And when it comes to all things nukes, there’s only one guy you want to hear from. Joe Cirincione (@Cirincione) is back. He worked on nuclear weapons policy in Washington for more than 35 years and is one of the top experts in the field. He was the Director for Non-Proliferation at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and author of Deadly Arsenals: Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Threats, and co-author of Universal Compliance: A Strategy for Nuclear Security. He was the president of Ploughshares Fund, a global security foundation. Taught at the Georgetown University Graduate School of Foreign Service. He’s one of America’s best known weapons experts, appearing frequently in print and on FOX News, MSNBC, CNN, ABC, NBC, PBS, NPR and occasionally on Comedy Central. After joining us for Episode 141 - Nov. 18, 2021 and Episode 163 - March 28, 2022, Professor Joe is back to drop knowledge bombs about nukes. In an episode you don’t want to miss. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff 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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Read Joe’s latest column in the Washington Post. - WATCH video of Paul and Joe’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get great IA and Righteous merch.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fall 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 a conscience for America. He is one of the leading advocates for veterans, for Afghan allies, and for America. A combat veteran and Army Major that made it out of Afghanistan alive only because of the courage of his Afghan interpreter, Matt’s been paying it forward ever since. He’s the courageous Co-Founder of No One Left Behind, a Truman National Security Fellow, the author of Watches Without Time: An American Soldier in Afghanistan, and a top leader on the powerhouse team at Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). Matt first joined us to predict the collapse of Afghanistan after the US pullout for Episode 127 in August, 2021. Then again for Episode 138 in October, 2021. He came back a year later in August for Episode 182 in August, 2022 to update us on how bad it’s gotten in Afghanistan. And to take us inside the historic PACT Act fight with Jon Stewart. And to preview the action that needed to be taken for our Afghan allies.  Now, that action is underway. Last week, along with leaders from the Afghan American, humanitarian and veterans community, Matt started a new firewatch. That means he started a campaign of activists sleeping 24/7 outside the capital until the Afghan Adjustment Act is passed.  This is democracy at work. This is democracy evolving. This is good trouble. This is the opposite of January 6th. If you were disgusted by that. You’ll be inspired by this. This is hope. And as we say all the time, hope is the oxygen of democracy. And it’s time for a big dose of it. This is a pod that will leave you inspired–and hopeful.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff @PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul Rieckhoff and Matt Zeller’s conversation here. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Represent for the show with some very cool Independent Americans merchandise.  -Check out the incredible music of Marcus King (featured in the show).  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Silly 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 Governor Ron DeSantis, looking to out Trump Greg Abbot, sent two planes of undocumented migrants to Martha's Vineyard. Because that’s what we need right now.  The stupid is back in full force this fall. It’s more contagious than COVID, monkeypox, the flu, and the cooties combined. And it’s everywhere. It’s like the worst reality show on TV. Only it’s real. And you can’t change the channel. Meanwhile, the best reality TV show in the world is the reality of the Ukraine war. And Ukraine is on the march. Reminding America (and the world) what fighting for freedom really looks like. And what the stakes are if you fail.   Other shows cover what’s happening. We cover what’s next.   And we’ll do that again in this episode with our guest, a returning champion, and a leader who wants you, as an independent American, to join her, Andrew Yang, David Jolly and other former partisans in their new venture: The Forward Party. Forward Party Co-Founder and former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman (@GovCTW) is our guest. The Forward Party is the controversial topic surrounding independent politics that has all of America talking. And we’ll dig into it with one of the top leaders behind it. What does it stand for? Can it work? Why should anyone trust it?  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 news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve–and stay vigilant.  -Watch video of Paul and Christine’s conversation here. -Learn more about the Tunnel 2 Towers run in NYC mentioned on the show. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get IA merch.  -Wanna advertise on the pod and reach the most coveted voters in America? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff has been to both conventions for the last twenty years. And for a political nerd and activist like him, they’re always fascinating, sometimes fun, occasionally frightening, frequently historic, and often frustrating. Especially since they’re dominated by the rich, the powerful, and the connected. And especially now—as 51% of the country is not a Democrat or Republican.  So this week, he’s got a low bar. He just wants to see something positive and honest that he can actually watch with his kids. Something that tries to unite and speak to all Americans. Something that shows a better face of America to the world. And something that moves people who need to be moved. It can’t be a victory lap. It’s gotta be the best sales pitch/infomercial ever. Because after this week ends, it’s gonna be back to nasty, divisive, infinitely precarious, and full of potentially bad surprises.  There’s an immeasurable amount of work ahead. To beat Donald Trump. But also to move, heal and grow America afterward. And to face all the challenges—foreign and domestic that loom. For these guys. And for all our children. And that’s gonna take all of us. Democrats, Republicans and Independents.  Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that now call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Read about the CMOH, and teach yourself and the children around you: https://www.cmohs.org/ This is our history and it must be understood, respected and built on.  -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -If you’re an Independent VETERAN especially, check out Independent Veterans of America.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s new independent and veteran-owned media company. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/ Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9/11 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 Zero on 9/11. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra host Rob Serra (@SerraRob) was there at Ground Zero on 9/11. They saw the horror first hand. They were there to witness it in person. The scale. The depth. The scope of it all. And while the rest of us watched in shock on TV, they were there, helping, scrambling through the wreckage trying to find survivors. Trying to find anything.  It was as horrible as things can be and no one should ever have to endure what they saw that day. But we can never forget. And part of that never forgetting is the requirement we all have to not look away from the ugliness. To not look away from the horror. If we hope to truly honor the sacrifice of those we lost, and those we continue to lose, we can not ignore the horror. We must truly never forget. So at least here — at Independent Americans and all of the shows produced by Righteous Media — we will never look away. We will never forget. We will honor those sacrifices and we will share the stories of the heroes that survived and the heroes that didn’t. Never forget is more than just a hashtag at Righteous Media. It’s what we do. It’s who we are. Join us. Every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve–and stay vigilant.  Go Deeper: Hear Paul’s full conversation with Rob Serra from Episode 2 of Independent Americans. Hear Rob’s full conversation with Richard Naviasky from Episode 1 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). Hear Rob’s full conversation with Joseph Cammarata from Episode 2 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). Hear Rob’s full conversation with Al Barry from Episode 15 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). Hear Rob’s full conversation with Lila Nordstrom from Episode 14 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get IA merch.  -Wanna advertise on the pod and reach the most coveted voters in America? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrat 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 Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is a good friend and supporter of Ryan. He also lives in the NY-19th Congressional district that Ryan just won. This candid, smart and fun conversation takes you inside the district, the strategy, the demographics, the leadership lessons-learned, and the future. And explores what it all means for the fall election (when Ryan will run again, in a newly-designed district), for the future of politics, for the power of independent Americans, and for the Presidential election in 2024.  Ryan’s election victory is a case study in focus, planning and heart. And by fighting gas prices, utility companies, Trump, abortion rollbacks, and his own party, the win is a case study in how to appeal to independent voters in 2022.  You’ll also hear what Ryan (a former Army intelligence officer) thinks about the breaking news that Trump kept highly classified documents unsecured at his resilience in Mar-A-Lago.  We’ll also dig into a new effort in Pennsylvania led by former NFL football star and Vietnam veteran Rocky Blier to open closed primaries to veterans–and hundreds of thousands of other independent voters who have been shut out of the process and denied a voice. Roughly 50% of veterans call themselves independent in that state–and nationwide.  Independent doesn’t mean the middle. It means none of the above. And the solution for empowering them is not a new party founded by Republicans and Democrats who switched jerseys a few weeks ago. It’s fixing a broken election system–with efforts like this one at the state level in Pennsylvania. We’ll pull apart why. And, speaking of independent politics, we’ll share a #WhereIsYang update. It’s been one week since Forward Party Co-Chair Andrew Yang ghosted on a scheduled interview on this show. And after lots of outrage from the independent Americans community–and casual observers–Paul has significant developments to share.  And, we’ll check in with Paul’s 3 and 7-year old boys, and reflect on a wild summer. You definitely wanna hear this pod and start your September off right.  Every episode of Independent Americans breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and helps you stay ahead of the curve–and stay vigilant.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul and Congressman Pat Ryan’s conversation here. -Check out some of Paul’s favorite places in Ulster County, NY (the place Pat Ryan now represents) that he mentioned on the show: -The Pines -Heavyfeather Coffee -Marty’s Mercantile  -Phoenicia Diner  -Sweet Sue’s Phoenicia  -The Hoot music and culture festival  -Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get IA merch.  -Wanna advertise on the pod and reach the most coveted voters in America? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One 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 this show twice before. Once for a pre-inauguration preview in January of 2021 for Episode 96. And again for Episode 154 back in February 2022 to talk about then new documents that revealed the U.S. military was intensely frustrated with the administration over the Afghanistan evacuation. The Washington Post broke the story, and Dan was the lead reporter and joined us to talk about it.  And now he’s back—one year after the collapse of Afghanistan—to share the insights and moving takeaways from his exclusive new story.  Dan talked to 13 U.S. troops who survived the Kabul airport disaster about how their feelings of guilt and grief endure. There’s also a companion podcast that features three of them. It’s harrowing, frustrating and heartbreaking stuff. That suicide bomber did more than kill dozens that day. It blew apart the lives of all who survived. And the Biden narrative for Afghanistan.  And yes, kids. America is still at war. In many places. Including Syria. Host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) and Dan also dig into the US airstrike in Syria that most Americans didn't even see. And it’s been 6 months since Russia invaded Ukraine. Is support inside the Pentagon slipping after all the carnage? Listen and find out.  And, Paul and Dan break down where the next American bombs might fall. And where the next unformed American boots might walk. The answers might surprise you.  Speaking of surprises, and things blowing up, that’s what happened to this show 48 hours ago. We were very happy Dan could join us. But that wasn’t the original plan. As Paul told you last episode, we had a big guest coming up. But after a bit of back and forth, things went in a different direction. The guest flaked in a big way. And you’ll hear more.  Every episode of Independent Americans breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul and Dan’s conversation here. -Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get IA merch.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 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 and more violent. With more violence likely. And promised by some Trump supporters.  What will Trump supporters really do? Some are calling for Civil War. Some are rushing to the polls. Some are staying quiet. And tens of millions are listening to conservative talk radio. And more of them are listening to Buck Sexton and his co-host Clay Travis than any other show in America (except maybe Sean Hannity). More than 10 million people tune into over 400 radio stations every day to hear “The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show.” Including Trump himself–who was recently a guest.  But who are conservative talk radio listeners nowadays? How is that audience changing? What are they thinking? And what will they do after the FBI search at Mar-a-Lago? How serious is the threat of violence? Paul will ask the former CIA agent turned radio talk show star, Buck Sexton (@BuckSexton). Other shows want to have people who disagree scream at each other. Or over each other. We don’t do that. We want to seek to understand. And help you understand. And look for common ground, as small as it might be. And to not only stay vigilant, but stay civil. Because we disagree, doesn’t mean we have to feed the fire. We can at least try to add light to contrast the devastating heat. And the rising, burning fire that is destroying the country we love.   Welcome to a look inside conservative talk radio. Welcome to an exploration of the GOP of 2022. Welcome to a look into the return of Trump. And a preview of what’s to come. Welcome to Independent Americans, Episode 184.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff @PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America. And grab a vacation when you can. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul and Buck’s conversation here. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Represent for the show with some very cool Independent Americans merchandise.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just 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 this country just got a whole lot hotter.  And we’re digging into it. And doing what we always do–bringing light to contrast the heat. Paul rips into the true scope and scale of the rise in domestic threats. Highlights the helpers that are making a positive impact. And talks to a very special (returning) guest that rose to prominence precisely because he brought an approach and tone that was more about building things up, than burning them down.  Back in December of 2019, Secretary (then Mayor) Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) joined this show for a huge, live-audience Episode 37 at the Classic Car Club in NYC. Buttigieg was on fire at the time, and nearing the peak of his Presidential run. And when the dust settled, he had landed in the cabinet and now serves as Secretary of Transportation–overseeing trillions of dollars in projects nationwide.  Buttigieg is one of the most important voices in American politics–and a leader that’s had unique appeal for independent Americans. He’s also the only combat veteran serving in the cabinet outside of the Secretary of Defense. In this new episode, you’ll again get to hear Buttigieg asked questions he’s never been asked before. He and Paul chop it up on everything from extremism in America, to parenthood, to Afghanistan, to pancakes vs waffles. And whether or not he will run for President again. It’s a deep, fast and fun conversation that will give you insight into what’s really in store for the future of our country.  Other shows focus on what’s happening. This show focuses on what’s next.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff @PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. And talks to powerful and influential leaders of all political backgrounds. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And all Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these wild times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Stay vigilant, America. Skip the other run-of-the-mill political shows. And listen now.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Represent for this show with some very cool Independent Americans merchandise.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -And you can watch video of Paul Rieckhoff and Secretary Buttigieg’s conversation here. -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company that delivers independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes, 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 years.  Our guest in this episode was a key leader in making that victory happen. When, Senator Pat Toomey and the other Republican Senators that stood in the way of the PACT Act, he united the troops, stood alongside Jon Stewart, helped to rally an unstoppable force of veterans, and ultimately emerged triumphant. He’s a true leader and one we’re proud to call a friend of the show. He’s a humanitarian, an activist, and a badass superhero: Matt Zeller (@MattCZeller). Matt is one of the leading advocates for veterans, for Afghan allies, and for America. He’s a combat veteran and Army Major that made it out of Afghanistan alive only because of the courage of his Afghan interpreter. And he’s been paying it forward ever since. Matt is the courageous Co-Founder of No One Left Behind, aTruman National Security Fellow, the author of Watches Without Time: An American Soldier in Afghanistan, and the newest member of the powerhouse team at Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). Matt joined us on this show for Episode 138 and Episode 127 to sound the alarm about the imminent collapse of Afghanistan and the chaos that would follow. And now he’s back to break down the fight for the PACT Act–and update us all on the terrible state of Afghanistan one year after the disasterous American withdrawl. Matt was part of the veterans “Fire Watch”, a group of advocates camped out on the Senate steps pressuring the hold-out senators to pass the PACT Act. They served as America’s conscience–and inspired people worldwide. Matt has been on countless TV and radio shows, inside the chamber for the pivotal vote, and he’s somehow, still standing. Still fighting. And he’s back to break it all down for us in compelling detail. This is a pod that will leave you inspired–and hopeful.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff @PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America. And grab a vacation when you can. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul Rieckhoff and Matt Zeller’s conversation here. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Represent for the show with some very cool Independent Americans merchandise.  -See the full roll call with the names of the 11 Senators that shamefull voted NO on the PACT act for vets with toxin exposures. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer 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 update on the most important piece of veterans legislation in decades: The PACT Act. It’s a bill that’s showing all of America all that’s right about Washington–and even more so–all that’s wrong. And we’ve got a powerful guest to dig into it, explain the stakes, and share the likely path forward. We’ll also dig into Roe’s growing impact on veterans, whether it’s better in Montana to be a Democrat or an independent, if the VA will ever change its sexist motto, and of course, waffles vs pancakes.  He started out as a farmer. He’s been an elementary school music teacher. He’s a grandfather. A moderate, and a maverick, now, he’s the senior Senator from the Great State of Montana: Democratic Senator Jon Tester (@SenatorTester). The Chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee is an influential voice on many issues. He’s also a lot of fun. He likes to crack jokes, doesn’t take himself seriously, and legitimately cares about people. They say America usually elects the candidate for President that they’d most like to have a beer with. There’s no politician in America we’d rather have a beer with than Jon Tester. And after this conversation, you’ll understand why.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America. And grab a vacation when you can. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul and Senator Tester’s conversation here. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Here’s the full roll call with the names of the 41 cowards and hacks that voted NO on the PACT act for vets with toxin exposures. -Hear the new song “In The Clouds” by our friends from O.A.R.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This 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 to be an independent in America. This week we’re going to bring you a peek under the hood and a little deeper insight into some of the biggest names we’ve heard from on the show. From Bradley Whitford to Milo Venitmiglia to Arian Moayed they’ve all stood on the biggest stages imaginable and when their moment’s came, their star’s shined bright. They forged their own paths and preserved in one of the most brutal arenas that exists. Hollywood. And so in this episode we’ll hear from these iconic actors as they share a few of the things that make them tick in these behind the scenes bonus clips. If you’re a Patreon supporter you might have heard these (definitely worth listening to again!). If you’re not, you should be. Either way, they’re a great listen and a perfect quick hit preview of our Patreon bonus content. Get the full versions of the following episodes wherever you get your podcasts or at the links below: Episode 134: Bradley Whitford Episode 135: Milo Ventimiglia Episode 137: Arian Moayed -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America. And grab a vacation when you can. -Check out Rieckhoff’s America! Playlist mentioned on the show.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over 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 constituency but the key to solving our country's political stagnation and gridlock.  So as you listen to the rhetoric and divisive partisan media as the fall midterms approach, consider this a primer. Independents 101. It will make you a smarter voter. And it will make you a smarter citizen. Hear from the political mavericks that are challenging the status quo and seeking to redefine what it means to be political. Redefining what it means to be patriotic. Redefining the future. Get the full versions of the following episodes wherever you get your podcasts or at the links below: Episode 144 - Tavis Smiley Episode 149 - Congressman Adam Kinzinger Episode 151 - Michael Smerconish Episode 168 - Evan McMullin Episode 171 - John Opdycke Episode 177 - Lindsay Church Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America. And grab a vacation when you can. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Check out Rieckhoff’s America! Playlist mentioned on the show.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As 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 a mother of three. And now she is 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, and after joining us way back in Episode 17 in 2019, Amy is back to join our Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) for an important conversation and, more importantly, a plan. A plan to help stem the tide. A plan to fight. A plan for change. In advance of Independence Day, Amy stood with fellow veteran Allison Jaslow and Paul Rieckhoff to launch Operation Liberty: a plan to protect American troops, veterans, and our national security after Roe. Amy outlines the new effort and explains the devastating impacts the Roe decision will have on women and nonbinary service members and veterans. She also responds to the latest mass shooting on July 4, breaks down the status of the air war over Ukraine, and explains the political landscape in her home state of Kentucky–to include the potential of a run by UK basketball legend and past pod guest, Rex Chapman. She also shares if she likes the new Top Gun movie more or less than the original. And why.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul and Amy’s conversation here. -Check out Rieckhoff’s America! Playlist mentioned on the show.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats are feeling hopeful right now. And hope is contagious. Americans love hope. We saw that in massive ways in and around the Olympics. We see it at the start of the new school year. The beginning of the new football season. Fall is actually a time of hope. And the hope is contagious right now. But hope is not a course of action. Hope is not a plan. But it is cool. And a lot cooler than weird.  Meanwhile, the war between the warrior candidates over their time in uniform continues. This week, with Walz defending himself from the Swift Boat 2.0 attack from Trump, Vance and the MAGA right. As Harris surges, Trump’s desperation is increasing, and the race continues to heat up.  But will it move enough independents? And why are Trump supporters worried about RFK Jr and pushing for Cornell West to get on the ballot in Wisconsin? And we check in on Zelensky and Ukraine, the only folks having a better two weeks than Harris and Walz. And we’ve got the perfect guest to cut through the noise. He’s been in the fire and he’s as cool as they get. Michael Steele (@MichaelSteele) is back and as always, he’s bringing the heat (Hear/watch his previous appearances in Episode 269 on Leap Day - Feb. 29, 2024, Episode 193 from Oct 2022 and Episode 222 from May 2023). 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 the host of an all new show on MSNBC, the Weekend. It’s another fun, insightful and real insiders conversation about the Presidential race and all the related parts. With no punches pulled.  Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that now call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul and Michael’s full conversation. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -If you’re an Independent VETERAN especially, check out Independent Veterans of America.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s new independent and veteran-owned media company. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/ Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On 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, military recruiting, and the lives of troops stationed in all 50 states and around the world? This Independence Day, everything is different now. And we’ll dig into Roe, the blockbuster latest January 6th hearings, John Wood launching an independent Senate bid in Missouri, a big decision from the Supreme Court you probably didn’t hear about, how Sean Penn is fighting for fighter jets for Ukraine, and why this might be the most dangerous Pride month ever.  This Independence Day, everything is different now. But leaders continue to rise to the moment. Leaders like our inspiring guest, Lindsay Church. Lindsay is an American badass. A fighter. An organizer. A patriot. Soon to be a parent. And an expert on the impact of Roe on the military, veterans, LGBTQ people and more.  Lindsay Church (they/them) is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Minority Veterans of America, a non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to creating an equitable and just world for the minority veteran community – veterans of color, women, LGBTQ, and (non)religious minorities. Lindsay has nearly a decade of experience rooted in veteran’s advocacy and grassroots organizing. They have facilitated agency-wide cultural competency trainings, provided Congressional testimonies, and speaks on myriad issues related to the equity and inclusion for minority and underrepresented communities. They’ll break down the unique threats facing women, LGBTQ people and their families. And why some queer familes like Lindsay’s are rushing to get a lawyer and updated their passports. Lindsay is a leader for the people. ALL people. Their people. Your people. Our people. ALL PEOPLE. We’ve come far in the last decade, but have so much further to go. But brave LGBTQ military and veteran leaders have been on the front lines, made unimaginable sacrifices, paved the way, and made our country stronger. And Lindsay is one of those leaders. They represent the best of what our country is—and what it can be. This Pride month, we at Righteous Media and Independent Americans again celebrate these leaders. But we’ll also honor them by continuing the fight. Which is more urgent now than ever. And we’ll dig deep into all of it in an urgent, timely and extremely informative new pod.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Paul and Lindsay’s conversation here. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This 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 that’s what America is thirsting for this summer. As radicals and weaklings hijack and dominate our politics, America is looking for leaders with common sense that can break through. Leaders who can speak the truth, understand the moment, and channel the emotion. And especially, the anger and disappointment of this moment.  But will a populist leader emerge to fight all our fires? How did the fire of Trumpism start in the first place? Where is it burning hottest now? Will the new Congressional gun bill fuel it? Who can throw water on it? Can it be put out? Who’s gonna be America’s fire brigade? Who’s gonna be our hero? Are independents the answer?  We’re gonna dig into all of it with a man who is now a political firefighter of sorts. But was once a political arsonist. A self-proclaimed reformed political gang-banger. And the perfect person to talk to about all this–and much more. Former GOP Tea Party Congressman from Illinois Turned Anti-Trumper Independent, Joe Walsh (@WalshFreedom).  Walsh was once a star in the GOP. A Tea Party darling. A bomb-throwing, punch-thrower who started out as a social worker outside Chicago, who took a shot at acting, and went on to become a key figure in the social movement that became a wave of Tea Party Congressional victories in 2010. He said crazy shit, insulted many, and ran nasty races. And then he lost in 2012 to Iraq war veteran and Democrat Tammy Duckworth. And after that, he launched into a media career, hosted a talk radio show, stirred up controversy, stood for positions he believed in, and stayed in the arena. And in 2018, he turned against Donald Trump, calling him "a danger to this country." And in 2019, Joe Walsh decided to run against Trump in the GOP primary. It didn’t last long. In February, 2020, Walsh ended his presidential campaign after getting only 1% of the vote in Iowa. But he didn’t stop battling Trump—or his former party. He’s still throwing punches. He’s still stirring shit up. He’s still fighting for what he believes in. And he’s still very much against Donald Trump and his former party that he now calls a cult. A cult he was once a member of. And we get into all of it in this pod.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And delivers a healing dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Watch video of Joe and Paul’s conversation here. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The battle on January 6th, 2021 was one that the good guys and gals won. Thankfully. Heroes like Officer Caroline Edwards sacrificed their bodies, their futures, and their lives, to win that battle. They successfully defended The US Capitol that day. They defended our country. And after the first few hearings held by the bi-partisan January 6th Committee, we can all see the truth now. It was a brutal, extended, coordinated, unprecedented battle. And it was a battle that the good guys and gals won. Maybe barely. That battle is over. But in this black summer of 2022, a year and a half later, the war goes on.  And this episode, we’re switching it up a bit. No guest this time. It’s just Paul Rieckhoff and you.  And a quick update with what you most need to know about the last week or so in America.  Soon, we’ll have more important, inspiring and iconic guests that are shaping what America was, what America is, and what America will be. Some VERY good guests. Guests who are making and breaking news. And culture.  But sometimes this summer, we’re just gonna fire off a quick situation report, or SitRep, of things you should know, might have missed, or need to see from a new viewpoint. An independent viewpoint. This is one of those times.  The January 6th Committee hearings (and video), Ukraine losing traction, progress on gun reform, veterans finally getting their due, a new round of primaries closed to independent Americans, Netflix making Squid Game a reality and much more. This is a fierce one.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And delivers a healing dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another insightful pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“There is no constitutional barrier to gun responsibility. Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous people is not only the responsible thing to do, it is the best way to protect the Second Amendment. We can do both.” That’s from legendary actor Matthew McConaughey. Born in Uvalde, Texas. Speaking for America. And finally, a powerful, reasonable, likable voice for responsible gun owners. This time is different. And he is different.  Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has often said Matthew McConaughey could win if he ran for Governor of Texas. Especially if he ran as an independent. Lots of folks didn’t take him seriously as a politician. Maybe that changed this week. He’s not going away. And this issue isn’t going away. Not in America. And not on this show.  Because gun violence is not just a public safety issue. It’s not just a public health issue. It’s a national security issue. And every time Americans kill other Americans, our enemies are celebrating.  And this is another hot summer in America. Another summer of fire. A summer fire that could clear the brush, or burn us down. And the violence is not going away. The heat is not going away. The fire is not going away. And stakes have never been higher.  This episode, we’re bringing back one of the best leaders and strategic thinkers in America, and in the world, to help break it down and guide us through the fire. Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, Admiral Jim Stavridis (@stavridisj). Author of the new book, To Risk It All: Nine Conflicts and the Crucible of Decision, Admiral Stavridis spent more than thirty years in the US Navy, rising to the rank of four-star admiral. He commanded at NATO and previously commanded US Southern Command, overseeing military operations through Latin America. At sea, he commanded a Navy destroyer, a destroyer squadron, and an aircraft carrier battle group in combat.. He has published eleven books, including 2034: A Novel of the Next World War, with Elliot Ackerman, and is chief international analyst for NBC News and a contributing editor for Time. He is vice chair, global affairs, and managing director of the Carlyle Group and the chair of the board of the Rockefeller Foundation. He’s a leader, a teacher and a voice of reason. His vision for the future is as clear as his knowledge of history. And he goes deep on gun violence in America as a national security threat, what the likeliest scenarios for Ukraine are, and then a look at where the next wars might unfold. The answer might surprise you. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And delivers a healing dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -WATCH the full video of this conversation with Paul and Admiral Stavridis here. And share it with your friends and family.  -Get a copy of To Risk It All: Nine Conflicts and the Crucible of Decision. Or listen to the audiobook for free now by joining Audible Plus. -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the recent mass shooting at an elementary school in Texas, and seeing Fred Guttenberg share his heartbreak and outrage on TV over and over again, our host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) asked an important question: “How many more times are we going to do this to Fred?” And sure enough, it happened again. And again. And again–with multiple shootings occurring the same day as this recording–including one at a healthcare facility in Tulsa with multiple fatalities. This is America’s new forever war. This is our tragic and horrible new normal.  A normal where schools are war zones — and people in actual war zones are sending condolences to us. A new normal where an overwhelming 88% of people favor some sort of action on gun violence but are held hostage by 12% that don’t. None of it makes any sense, and as Americans continue to kill Americans daily, our enemies are celebrating. They’re celebrating the division sown by politicians that care more about their grasp on power than your child’s safety. And that division is deeper than ever. And the anger is boiling over and turning increasingly violent. From our kids' schools or to our local grocery stores, violence is everywhere. It’s our #1 national security threat. We’ve got to face it. And we’ve got to look for the helpers to help us find the way forward. Fred Gutenberg (@fred_guttenberg) is a helper. And a hero who is pushing for solutions. He suffered an unimaginable loss, when his 14-year-old daughter Jamie was murdered at Parkland, Florida’s Stoneman Douglas High School. Despite his pain, he emerged the very next day to speak at a vigil addressing his community. It was carried nationally and the entire country was riveted by what he said. America has been riveted by Fred ever since. And he has not stopped ever since.  Fred testified before Congress, started a non-profit, is constantly meeting with leaders in Washington, and wrote a book called Find The Helpers. Fred joined us back in Episode 99 and also in Episode 74 and he’s here again. It’s an urgent and timely conversation you need to hear.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff is pulled from the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And delivers a healing dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another insightful pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  -WATCH the full video of this conversation with Paul and Fred here. And share it with your friends and family.  -Support Fred Guttenberg, get his book, learn more about this charity and encourage him to run for office! -Get your own awesome “Born in a Riot of Love” PRIDE t-shirt from Minority Veterans of America (MVA) here.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Also check out other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"They f***ing failed our kids again."  How many more times? How many more times? That’s our friend and a conscience for America, Fred Guttenberg.  His 14-year-old daughter Jaime was murdered in the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting on February 14, 2018.  Fred is again a conscience for America, a hero, a helper. But he shouldn’t have to keep doing this. It’s just not fair. To our children, to our fellow citizens, to him. He joined us back in Ep99 for one of our most powerful pods ever.  Fred is angry. And we should all be angry.  Because if you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention.  But being angry isn’t enough. Thoughts and prayers aren’t enough. We have to be like Fred, and turn that righteous anger into positive impact.  This week, in an address to the nation, President Biden was focused, measured, empathetic, righteous and strong. After all the tragedy he’s experienced himself, this week is a moment Biden is built for. We need him to be at his best now more than any other time in his Presidency. Because mass shootings are–and continue to be–our greatest national security threat. This IS a national security issue. And it’s time to start treating it like one.  Ukraine is sending America condolences. That’s how bad it is. For the last couple of years this show has highlighted the ways that our political system is broken. We’ve explored how partisan primaries push us further apart, how elections are designed to make independents fail, to convince people that the choices we face are binary. Us or them. Red blue. Good bad. And most importantly, we’ve explored how the system is designed to divide. And during those years, our political system has continued to devolve. Failure after failure. By both parties. On almost every single issue. In poll after poll, the truth is obvious. The politicians aren’t representing the will of the people on either side of the aisle. From gun control to women’s reproductive rights to our schools, nothing that our broken binary system touches survives. Now more than ever, this is a time for change. Now more than ever, this is a time for Independent Americans.   And as America mourns the latest horrible tragedy, we’ve got a perfect voice to help us all navigate the pain. Bonnie Carroll (@Bonnie_at_TAPS) is a true helper and she has helped to guide so many people through similar awful journeys. Grief is an unbearable burden and Bonnie and the amazing volunteers that she works with at TAPS help the survivors to learn how to carry that weight. They’re helpers. And as we head into another Memorial Day weekend with heavy hearts, we all could use some help. As the war in Ukraine rages on, TAPS is there, helping them deal with the grief. Helping them navigate their pain. And she takes time out to join us for a very special episode, to help us all as we struggle to process the seemingly endless cycle of senseless violence that has occurred over the past few weeks. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -WATCH video of Paul and Bonnie’s conversation. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Huge primaries happened this week in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Oregon and Kentucky. And millions of independent voters (the fastest growing segment of the electorate) were shut out completely. Just like they’re shut out of primaries in dozens of states across America. And will be shut out of the Presidential primaries in 2024. Democrats and Republicans are squabbling and battling and our children and neighbors continue to be slaughtered in mass shootings. This is America in 2022.  Putin is losing in Ukraine. But his agenda is winning in Buffalo. In El Paso. In Charleston. And most of all, in Washington DC. The broken two-party duopoly that George Washington warned us about continues to propel the problem. And ALL of our problems. The parties can’t find a way forward to solutions. On school shootings, on immigration, on the pandemic, on education, on the future. And in America in 2022, as our fellow Americans continue to die daily–in a hospital bed due to COVID, or in a supermarket due to a radical with a rifle–stakes have never been higher. America is broken. Because our politics are broken. But there is a path to fixing it. And this episode, we’re gonna explore it with a leader who’s dedicated his life to it.  John Opdycke (@jbopdycke) is the President of Open Primaries. Open Primaries is a non-profit focused on a movement of diverse Americans who believe in a simple, yet radical idea: No American should be required to join a political party to exercise their right to vote. We’re digging into who independent Americans really are. Why millions of independents are blocked from voting In America. Why is the taxpaying public funding non-public primaries? Can Evan McMullin (our recent guest on this show) really win the Senate seat in Utah this fall? Will there be a viable independent alternative to the Democratic and Republican candidates for President in 2024?  This is an episode about solutions. And about how we can all be a part of them.  Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -WATCH video of Paul and John’s conversation. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Witnesses are calling the Avostal plant in Mariupol a living hell. There are reports that the massive complex has been bombarded 34 times in just the past 24 hours. The Russians continue to attempt to storm the plant. But the Ukrainians aren’t backing down. 100 civilians, more than a thousand soldiers, and 500 wounded remain at the Azovstal plant. The city and plant were supposed to fall weeks ago. But like with so many other moments in this war, Ukraine has defied the predictions.  The Azovstal plant in Mariupol has become the latest symbol of Ukrainian strength, defiance and toughness. This is their Alamo. And they will fight to the last man or woman to defend it. Like they will for every other inch of their land. And we dig into the latest.  EASY is over. This is the long haul now.  The artillery and trench battles in the East are grinding into what could devolve into a stalemate that could last months, even years. This is where the war could turn into an even more brutal and horrfying grinder. You will want to turn away. You will feel a need to turn away. Putin WANTS you to turn away.  But you can’t. Ukraine is the fight of our time. A fight for all times. And Memorial Day, summer break in America, Roe vs Wade, The NBA playoffs, the midterm elections—none of that is a good enough excuse to turn away from the fight of our time. The fight for all time. It’s not just the people of Ukraine who must stay focused. It’s not just just our leaders in Congress and our president that must stay focused. Every single independent American who loves freedom must stay focused. This is a time to stay vigilant.  And in this high-impact episode we’ve got a guest who is changing the past, present and future not only of Ukraine, but of America. Another leader who knows both worlds–the US and Ukraine.  He has spent the last 8 years of his life living in Ukraine. And has spent the last 3 months on the front lines of the war helping us all stay connected—and stay vigilant.  He’s an American special forces veteran, a combat journalist, and the husband of a Ukrainian–who is telling the story of this war—-through his life in it: Nolan Peterson (@NolanWPeterson).  A former U.S. Air Force Special Operations pilot and veteran of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, Nolan Peterson is Senior Editor for Coffee or Die Magazine, an acclaimed war correspondent, and a globetrotting travel writer whose adventures have taken him to all seven continents.  And he breaks down what’s happening now in Ukraine now: in the skies, among families, inside Mariupol, inside the units of foreign fighters–and into the future. He tells us all how to Stand by Ukraine. Check out all his recent articles from the war in Ukraine.  Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -WATCH video of Paul and Nolan’s conversation. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Right now in America, there’s a war being fought. A war on women. And right now, we’re losing. And losing sucks. So maybe the Democrats could learn a thing or two from the Ukrainians. The Ukrainians that are fighting — and winning — against overwhelming odds. And maybe we could all learn something from them. Something important. Something we all need to be reminded of. The value of freedom. The value of democracy. And of the horrible price of tyranny when that freedom is taken away. As we pass the grim milestone of one million dead from COVID here at home we mourn. As we lose more of our rights, we mourn. And despite the mourning, we will continue to fight. This is a time for fighters. This is a time for vigilance. And as the first rumors of a Russian troop build up swirled this winter, writer and Army veteran Adrian Bonenberger (@AdrianBonenber1) knew this was also a time for action.  After experiencing the killing of his translator by the Taliban during the fall of Afghanistan, and with his wife and fellow journalist, Iryna Somolko’s (@Iryna_Solomko) family squarely in the crosshairs in Kyiv, he knew that there was no cavalry coming to the rescue. So together with Matt Gallagher (@MattGallagher) and Ben Bush they formed a plan and went in to help evacuate her parents and to train and organize the local civilians so they could protect themselves. They join your host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) for a hard look at the realities of war. Some of them are things you want to look away from. But there are also moments of inspiration and beauty and even hope that can spring out of even the worst conflicts.  We heard from Matt Gallagher in Episode 161 back in March as they’d just left Ukraine crossing the border into Poland before returning home. And now, with their parents safe and out of harm's way, they're back home to tell their story and share what it’s really like to be in a war zone in the 21st century. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  Support the people of Ukraine and refugees of the conflict: Razom for Ukraine — https://razomforukraine.org/  Ukrainian Freedom Fund — https://ukrfreedomfund.org/  IRIS CT (Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services) — https://irisct.org/  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -WATCH video of Paul, Iryna & Adrian’s conversation. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Garry Kasparov said, “easy is over.” And it’s more true by the day. The war in Ukraine is grinding on, inflation is dragging down wallets, Jan 6 revelations continue to pour out, Biden is failing to find traction, and Trump is rising again. Easy IS over. And the fight will be long. The fight in Ukraine–and the fight in the US. The war for the soul of America continues. And in 2022, the most pivotal battle for that soul is also the most important battle for Independent Americans in a generation. And it’s in Utah.  Utah is a tough place for anyone but Republicans. Trump won it in 2020 by 21 points. No Democrat has won statewide since 1996. No Dem has won a Senate seat since 1970. A Dem hasn’t received even a third of the vote in any statewide race in almost two decades. And it’s been four decades since it happened in a Senate race. Democrats can’t win in Utah. But can an independent? This fall, we’ll all find out.  Evan McMullin (@EvanMcMullin) is a patriot. And an independent. He worked in the CIA, in business, and in Republican politics. In 2016, he ran for President as an independent and got over 20% of the vote in his home state. Now, Evan’s running for Senate against Trump-supporting Republican Senator Mike Lee. And it’s gonna be a hell of a fight.  February polls showed Lee at 34%, McMullin at 24% and Dem Kael Weston at 12%. But, now, Weston is out. In an exceptionally rare move last week, the Utah Democratic party endorsed McMullin–rather than their own Dem candidate. McMullin now has a chance to win. This year, he is the face for independents everywhere.  After joining us in Ep 101, he’s back. Now as the independent with the best chance of winning a Senate seat, dealing a blow to Trump, and changing the face of American politics, he’s back to chop it up with our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff). They go deep, breaking down Evan’s strategy to win, Lee’s ties to Putin, and why you should care if you don’t live in Utah. He shares his thoughts on Ukraine as a former CIA intel officer and if he wants Mitt Romney’s endorsement. You can only get this kind of candid conversation here. And speaking of content you’ll only get here, we’ve got a quick round up of national security news that the legacy media won’t touch. Like Marine hero Mike Zacchea losing his fight to cancer, Marine Trevor Reed being freed by the Russians, and Dispatch singer Chad Stokes supporting Ukraine. They’re helpers. And we salute them. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -WATCH video of Paul & Evan’s conversation. -Get the cool St Javelin t-shirt Paul mentioned (and wore in this pod) and support Ukraine.  -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week we said we were going to take off this week to get some much needed R&R. 2024 was having none of it. In the span of the last week we’ve had a month's worth of news, crises and developments. From Trump’s abysmal performance at the NABJ conference to a story so bizarre you have to hear it straight from the source to believe it, the news won’t quit. So we won’t either. And oh yeah, by the way, Harris named her VP pick. Tim Walz is a leader of integrity, honor, humility and fight. He’s a friend of host Paul Rieckhoff and he’s a patriotic, down to earth and lovable bulldog. He knows how to fight against (but also alongside) Republicans. He understands that making real and lasting change in Washington requires bipartisanship. Especially now. It’s a big bold pick that won’t make everyone happy. But it guarantees that there will be a veteran as VP in the next administration. Veterans who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan are starting to shape the political landscape, just like the generations of veterans that came before them. We’ll always celebrate that. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that now call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -If you’re an Independent VETERAN especially, check out Independent Veterans of America.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s new independent and veteran-owned media company. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/ Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve been focused on the War in Ukraine since before it started. But you’ve never heard our bonus content, that has until now been Patreon exclusive. It’s a little lighter than our regular stuff—and will help you get an idea of how the people on the front lines and in the center of the pressure cooker are keeping themselves sane and focused. From the food they miss back home, to the drinks they’re looking forward to, to memories of times that seem like a million years ago, these clips will take you behind the scenes and deeper into conversations with fascinating and impactful leaders at the epicenter of the most important elements of the war in Ukraine. A Navy SEAL Commander on tactics and weapons of the war, a best-selling author just back from training Ukrainian civilians to fight, to the Professor of Nukes. These are real leaders and real talk about the biggest news story of our time.  Join us on Patreon and get even more great extra content just like this, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and more, all while supporting this show and community.  Go deeper and listen to the full Ukraine War Report episodes with these dynamic guests here: Matt Gallagher - Episode 161 - March 18, 2022 Quan Nguyen - Episode 162 - March 24, 2022 Joe Cirincione - Episode 163 - March 28, 2022 Chris Fussell - Episode 164 - March 31, 2022 Seth Harp - Episode 165 - April 7, 2022 Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the news–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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. You can also see video with every guest.  -Hear other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ukraine remains under attack. Civilians are still dying. Bucha, a suburb of Kiev, is the first of what could be many that reveal the scope and scale of war crimes. And it could get worse. Russian chessmaster Garry Kasparov said it–and I’ve been repeating since the war began. EASY IS OVER. The tide may have turned. But the flood is just starting. The flood of pain and loss. And flood of sadness and need. The flood of weapons. The flood of blood. Wartime is here. Not just for Ukraine. But for everyone who cares about freedom. And now, more than any other time in our lifetime, now is a time for us all to stay vigilant. We all need to help Ukraine. And understand the flood of pain they’re in right now. And do more to help.  Welcome to another Ukraine War Report. Seth Harp (@sethharpesq) was a sophomore at UT-Austin when the Iraq war started and his Army Reserve unit got called up. He went over there as a simple truck-driving private and did a 15-month tour from 2003 to 2005. And the first piece he wrote for Rolling Stone was about an ambush that befell one of his detachments.  After college he went to NYU Law and spent five years practicing law, first as a corporate lawyer, later as an assistant AG at the Texas AG's office. While he says there were a lot of things he liked about the profession, a strong desire to write led him to quit and go to Columbia Journalism School. He graduated in 2016 and started writing for Rolling Stone. They sent him to Syria a couple of times, as well as Iraq, and to Mexico on three or more occasions. He developed a specialty covering the intersection of the military, armed conflict, and organized crime, reporting not only for Rolling Stone but also Harper's, The Intercept, The New Yorker's News Desk, The NY Times Magazine's At War, Columbia Journalism Review, The Texas Observer, and The Daily Beast.  Now, he’s in Ukraine on assignment for Harper's and digging deep, running down leads, and gathering material for a number of stories. And he’ll preview them in this episode.  He’s on the inside and he takes us there with him. Into Ukraine. Into Kyiv. And into one of the most controversial units in the fight. The notorious, far-right Azov Regiment. Seth talked to it’s founder, visited its Kiev headquarters and shares what he found. He also shares new reporting and how few foreign volunteers are actually joining the fight. And, explains why, back at home in the US, so many elite soldiers are dying mysteriously at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. It’s a deep and insightful look into the conflict—and the Ukrainian and American militaries—that you can’t get anywhere else. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the news–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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -WATCH video of Paul and Seth’s conversation here. -Get the Ghost of Ukraine t-shirt Paul mentioned (and wore in this episode) and support the folks there now deep in the fight. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Millions of civilians are caught in an unimaginable hell that continues to unfold in Ukraine.  But what’s really happening on the battlefield? What weapons are making a difference? How are the Ukrainian and Russian militaries critically different? What critical missions in/around Ukraine might American Special Forces get tasked with? We’ve all seen lots of retired generals on cable news. And we’ve all seen quick videos on social media of tanks getting blown up. In this episode, we’re going deeper in a way you haven’t heard before. With a guest who knows more about 21st century battle than just about anyone. He doesn’t just know it academically, he knows it personally. He’s a returning guest and a true leader. Former Navy SEAL DEVGRU Commander, Chris Fussell.  Chris (@FussellChris) is a man who knows war. Steeled by leadership roles in the most selective Special Operations units in the military, he understands the chaos of modern combat. He led the most elite unit: the Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU) and Navy SEAL Teams 2 and 8 on some of the most critical missions of our generation.  He joined us back in Episode 50 in March, 2020–right before the pandemic exploded. And a month later for a special Dispatches. Chris spent 16 years at the tip of the spear for America’s most complex national security challenges and as Aide-de-Camp to Gen Stanley McChrystal as he commanded the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) in Iraq. He teaches leadership at Yale, speaks to packed audiences, and coaches top leaders worldwide.  He’s the author of the bestsellers, Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World and One Mission: How Leaders Build a Team of Teams and now serves as President of McChrystal Group--an elite management consulting and leadership development firm in Washington.  A former wrestler and with a degree in philosophy, Chris is a true warrior philosopher. He has a Master of Arts in Irregular Warfare from the Naval Postgraduate School, and received the Pat Tillman Award for highest peer-rated Special Operations Officer. His thesis focused on the interagency collaboration and intelligence sharing processes that drove effective, cross-silo collaboration during the peak of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Chris knows modern warfare. And he’s gonna break down the strategic and tacticial. The political and psychological. Almost nobody you see on TV or hear on the radio has the depth of personal experience in combat that Chris does. Or the mind to pull apart what’s happening beneath the headlines. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the news–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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Check out Chris’ book: One Mission: How Leaders Build a Team of Teams   -Here’s the video of the dancing Ukrainian troops that Paul’s mentioned.  -WATCH video of the Paul and Chris conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The war in Ukraine has shifted into a new phase. Putin is quickly becoming more and more isolated. And more and more brutal. But Ukraine is on the offensive. And more and more by the day, the mighty Ukrainians are looking like they can win this thing. Almost single-handedly. On behalf of the world. But make no mistake. It can get worse. MUCH worse. Especially in Ukraine.  Worse than the targeting of schools and churches.  Worse than the shelling of civilians flying.  Worse than shooting missiles that kill kids. Worse than that? Yes. Worse than that.  What’s the worst that could happen? One word: NUKES. Yep, nukes.  We’re getting to the ground truth about what the real nuclear threats are, what the most dangerous nuclear threats are, and what the most likely nuclear threats are.  Joe Cirincione (@Cirincione) is back. He worked on nuclear weapons policy in Washington for more than 35 years and is one of the top experts in the field. He was the Director for Non-Proliferation at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and author of Deadly Arsenals: Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Threats, and co-author of Universal Compliance: A Strategy for Nuclear Security. He was the president of Ploughshares Fund, a global security foundation. Taught at the Georgetown University Graduate School of Foreign Service. He’s one of America’s best known weapons experts, appearing frequently in print and on FOX News, MSNBC, CNN, ABC, NBC, PBS, NPR and occasionally on Comedy Central. After joining us for Episode 141 - Nov. 18, 202, he’s back to drop knowledge bombs about nukes. And it’s an episode you don’t want to miss. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff 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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Listen to President Biden's speech here: https://www.c-span.org/video/?519061-1/president-biden-putin-cannot-remain-power -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Read Joe’s latest article in Responsible Statecraft: Let’s curb loose talk of using lower-yield nuclear weapons - WATCH video of Paul and Joe’s conversation here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“We can’t help everybody…but just knowing that you were able to be part of somebody’s future and helping them escape. Who knows, that person could be the person that cures cancer.” - Quan Nguyen Quan Nguyen is a leader of action. And a true helper. And when the war in Ukraine started, the American combat veteran left his family in Utah, got on a flight, and linked up with a friend in Lviv to do what he could to help. He’s put down his rifle, risked his life, and is now helping children who are refugees from war like he once was long ago. He’s founded a new non-profit, called Task Force 824, named in honor of Ukraine’s Independence Day (8/24). Led by Quan, Task Force 824 is a non-profit of non-sanctioned individuals working together to provide humanitarian aid to Ukrainian citizens affected by the recent Russian invasion. They are transporting refugees to safety and delivering supplies to safe houses in Ukraine.  Quan Nguyen has had an amazing life journey. As a young boy, he fled Vietnam and lived in a refugee camp for over a year. He and his family would find refuge in America. And Quan would grow up and go on to serve in the Marine Corps as an infantryman with combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. After returning home from combat, he built his own small business and worked in technology for two decades. And he continued his life of service. He supported his fellow veterans as a Deputy Director for the Western Region for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), with the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, and with other nonprofits. When IAVA kicked off a groundbreaking national tour to combat suicide with legendary rock band Linkin Park, it was Quan that led the way. For an entire national tour with Mike Shinoda and the late Chester Bennington and the band, in dozens of cities, he worked with the crew to promote awareness, host veterans, share mental health resources, and save lives.  Quan is an old friend and colleague of our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff), and joins us for a session just recorded from inside Kyiv-–as the city continues to await an imminent Russian assault. Quan spoke to us as artillery rounds fired off behind him, and air raid sirens and the threat of missile attacks swirled all around. It’s a brave, riveting and inspiring conversation unlike anything else you’ll hear in American media. It’s the kind of ground truth you can expect from Independent Americans and Righteous Media. Every episode of Independent Americans (@Indy_Americans) hosted by Paul Rieckhoff 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. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. -Learn more about Task Force 824 and how you can help support their vital work.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -WATCH video of Paul and Quan’s conversation here. -See the Linkin Park video for Wastelands that Quan and Paul helped create with LP.  -Support The Brent Renaud Journalism Foundation here.  -Tell your member of Congress to support HR 987 - Expressing gratitude on behalf of the people of the United States to the journalists and news staff who are risking injury and death, are subject to grave threat, and have sacrificed their lives, to chronicle and report on the ongoing war in Ukraine resulting from Putin's invasion.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  -Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices