Video – Independent Americans

Full Interviews

EPISODE 278: JARED YOUNG - FULL INTERVIEW

278. Jared Young. Independent Candidate for US Senate From Missouri. Can He Beat Josh Hawley & Lucas Kunce? Who Is He, What Does He Stand For, How Does He Define ...Independent? Congress Finally Delivers for Ukraine. Kennedy’s Whole Family Endorses Biden.

Welcome to the first installment of our groundbreaking “Meet The 2024 Independent Candidates” series—highlighting independent candidates of all kinds, for all levels of office, from all across America.

America, meet Jared Young (@VoteJaredYoung). Jared is the independent candidate for Senate from Missouri running against Republican incumbent Senator Josh Hawley and underperforming Democrat Lucas Kunce. It’s a monumental task but he’s focused and he’s organized. He’s got a plan and maybe even a little momentum. It’s a fascinating look behind the scenes of a campaign on the move and a great way to kick-off the series. Hear why he is running, why he thinks he can overcome the odds and maybe most importantly, how he defines independent and what it means to him.

If you’re interested in independent politics—or American politics in general—this is a can’t miss. If you’re an independent, you’ve found your home.

Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) rips into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. And hits Speaker of the House Johnson pushing the big Ukraine funding bill through Congress, Trump’s trial, and some national and global security headlines you won’t don’t get from most other news shows… yet. Because on Independent Americans, we’re focused on not just what’s happening now, but also on what’s happening next.

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 49% 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 Jared Young and his race on his campaign website.

-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 Jared’s conversation.

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://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.[+] Show More

EPISODE 278: JARED YOUNG - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 275: BILL HILLSMAN - FULL EPISODE

EPISODE 274: KEN BURNS - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 195: KEN BURNS - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 270: TIM MAK - FULL EPISODE

270 Tim Mak. Ukraine at a Crossroads. Has Ukraine Given Up on America? The Battle of Antonov Airfield. Haley is Out. Sinema is Out Too. Super Tuesday Was Not Super ...for 6M Independents. America Says Biden is Too Old. SecDef Austin’s Rough Time.

Welcome to Independent Americans. And welcome to March.

The weather is changing. It’s warming up and spring is so close you can almost smell it. But instead you’re probably smelling something different in the air. Something a lot less pleasant. It’s a smell that’s always been pervasive in Washington, DC and also on television and the airwaves. But in the last couple of years the smell has gotten out of control. It’s everywhere. It comes out of random strangers at random times. You can’t escape it. It’s everywhere. It’s bullshit.

Whether it’s a government shutdown, or America abandoning Ukraine, or two old men apparently nobody wants for President running for President, we are drowning in bullshit. And when you’re drowning in bullshit, you’ve got to reach for the truth. And you’re gonna get it in this episode. From Paul Rieckhoff on Nikki Haley dropping out, Biden being too old, Trump being too toxic, SecDef Austin being too slow, and much more. To include Ukraine.

Tim Mak (@timkmak) is a man on a mission to find the truth. Tim is an investigative journalist with a background in politics, national security, and emergency medicine. He’s the author of a book about the inner workings of the NRA, titled 'Misfire.' and he’s a former U.S. Army medic and EMT. His writing has been featured in Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, The Daily Beast, Politico Magazine, and the L.A. Times. And you can hear him regularly on NPR's Morning Edition, All Things Considered, and Politics Podcast.

He’s reported abroad from such places as Ukraine, South Sudan, Djibouti, Israel, Japan and Hong Kong. And now, he’s launched his own new media venture called The Counteroffensive. He’s taking people deep inside the war in Ukraine. And he joins host Paul Rieckhoff for a look behind the front lines at the people who are feeling abandoned and betrayed by America. It’s a heavy dose of truth, but it’s a lot better than the bullshit. If you like bullshit, this ain’t your place.

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 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And it always 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 Tim’s conversation on our YouTube channel here.

-Join Paul in Austin, Texas this weekend on Saturday, March 9 at a free Independent Voters MeetUp during South By Southwest.

-Or also in Austin for SXSW on Tuesday at 10AM for an Army Futures Command panel
POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH: ALTERNATIVE HELP FOR INVISIBLE INJURIES: https://dodxtech.com/schedule/

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on social media. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.

-Check out other powerful, independent 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.[+] Show More

EPISODE 269: MICHAEL STEELE - FULL INTERVIEW

269 Michael Steele. Michigan & South Carolina Primary Insights. Where Will Haley Voters Go? Being the only Republican Host on MSNBC. Does Biden Have a Harris Problem? More Congressional Chaos. ...Will RFK Jr & No Labels Spoil Everything?

The story that remains underreported is how much Trump ISN’T getting. He’s a freight train as nominee—but still NOT getting 30%. AND, he’s continuing to struggle with moderates in his own party and especially with independents (as revealed most vividly in New Hampshire). It continues to underscore his general election weakness. Which is revealed (AND increasing) with Haley in.
And on the other side, Biden is inevitable—but failing with 15% of “uncommitted” protest votes AGAINST him. And another 3% going to Williamson—who dropped out. He continues to struggle with progressive Dems due to Israel—and his age. And he’ll struggle with some independents on that—and with Kamala Harris as VP.

And too many forget (especially in the media) that RFK Jr (unfortunately) continues to have the highest favorability rating of all the candidates, is polling over 20%, and will likely gain momentum in coming months. Especially among critical independents.

2024 is all about moving a critical and rising number of #IndependentAmericans. That’s the final battlefield. It’s all gonna come down to them. This year—and likely every Presidential year to come.
We independents are the key. And the future.

And we’ve got the perfect guest to help break it all down.

Michael Steele (@MichaelSteele) is back and as always, he’s bringing the heat (Hear/watch his previous appearances in 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 a Political Analyst for MSNBC and the host of his own influential political podcast.

He knows politics like the back of his hand and he’s not holding back.

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 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And it always 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.

-Check out Michael Steele on Twitter, watch him on MSNBC and subscribe to The Michael Steele Podcast.

-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 on our YouTube channel here.

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on social media. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.

-Check out other powerful, independent 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.[+] Show More

EPISODE 267: ASHA RANGAPPA - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 266: MATT GALLAGHER - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 265: ALEX VINDMAN - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 264: MICHAEL SMERCONISH - FULL EPISODE

264. Michael Smerconish. New Hampshire Post-Mortem. Jason Kelce for President!? Haley’s Independent Appeal & Playing for QB2. Who Trump Might Pick for VP. Dean Phillips: Blah. The 2024 Wild Cards: ...RFK Jr, No Labels & Independents. Super Bowl Predictions!

The New Hampshire primary is over–and independents were a huge factor. Just as they will be in the general election in November. Who did they vote for? What do they care about? And who can appeal to them now—and in the future? And what’s next for Nikki Haley, Trump, Biden and the rest in this chaotic sprint to the summer nominating conventions?

Michael Smerconish (@Smerconish is back on IA to chop it up with Paul on all that. And, to rip into Jason Kelce’s shirtless emergence as America’s man of the people (and what it reveals–heh heh–about our politics in 2024), why more voters aren’t responding to Dean Phillips, why so many are responding to RFK Jr, who is on the bench for the Dems and Republicans, who can galvanize all this independent energy, and who’s gonna win the Super Bowl??? We’re digging into all of it in a fast and fun episode with your two favorite outspoken, bald and bearded, independent, white guys!

Michael Smerconish is a longtime political commentator, radio host, TV host, best-selling author, and maybe the single most high profile political independent in the media. A guy who has served as a guest host for voices on all sides of the political spectrum. He’s been a guest host for Chris Matthews AND for Bill O’Reilly. For Chris Cuomo AND for Glen Beck. And he’s the host of his own SiriusXM radio and CNN TV show. And Paul Rieckhoff’s stunt double! You can learn more and subscribe to his free daily newsletter here.

Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) provides light to contrast the heat. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And every episode delivers a dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. 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.

-Check out Michael’s previous appearance here: Episode 151

-Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.

-Watch the full video of this conversation with Paul and Michael here.

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us–where you can also grab some cool IA gear. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media.[+] Show More

EPISODE 263: SURVIVING OCTOBER 7

263. Surviving October 7. Dorin Cohen. Survivor of Kibbutz Kfar Aza. A Young Mother Courageously Tells Her Unimaginable and Harrowing Story. Remembering the Hostages Still Being Held by Hamas. “I’m ...going to tell you a story about heaven…”

Content warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence, combat, death, sexual assault, violence against children and more.

Dorin Cohen grew up in Ashkelon, Israel and most recently lived in Kibbutz Kfar Aza with her husband, Itamar, and her two young boys, Adam and Jonathan, where they survived nearly 30 hours in their bomb shelter on October 7. Dorin has a Bachelor's degree in Law from Ono Academic College and is currently pursuing an advanced studies degree in Child Development at Bar-Ilan University.

Earlier this month in New York at an event titled Understanding Israel, Dorin bravely shared her story. It’s a story of unthinkable cruelity, an unprecedented moment, and unparalleled heroism. You might think you know the story of October 7th, but you haven’t heard it through Dorin’s eyes. Hers is a story that is much bigger than the division that has unfolded around the world since Oct 7th and the combat that has followed. Dorin’s story is one of a young mother, a wife, a human being, and a hero–who showed a kind of courage that few will ever know. No matter where you stand on Israel/Gaza/Palestine, this is a story you need to hear. Because it’s about much more than Hamas and Israel, it’s about the most basic brutalities and beauties of humanity. And it’s a story everyone in the world must hear.

It comes from the Understanding Israel event that was hosted by friend of the show and former guest, Eli Elefant (Episode 252 - Nov. 16, 2022). Dorin was introduced by her friend, Rachael Braverman. And her unforgettable talk followed the panel with Ambassador Marc Ginsberg and Mike Novogratz that was moderated by our Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) and broadcast exclusively by Righteous Media in our previous, important, special Episode 262 posted last week.

After experiencing this unimaginable trauma, Dorin and her family are now working to build a new life–maybe in Israel–maybe in America. You can help them on this path by donating what you can to this GoFundMe page set up by their friends.

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 content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. 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.

-Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.

-Watch Dorin Cohen’s powerful remarks from the Understanding Israel event on YouTube.

-Donate to help Dorin and her family. And encourage others to do the same.

-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 http://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.[+] Show More

EPISODE 262: MIKE NOVOGRATZ & AMB. GINSBERG, MODERATED BY PAUL RIECKHOFF - UNDERSTANDING ISRAEL

Ambassador Marc Ginsberg grew up in Israel, became America’s first jewish ambassador to an Arab nation, and currently leads The Coalition for a Safer Web, a non-profit dedicated to combating ...cyber terrorism and extremist incitement. He’s a diplomatic powerhouse and deeply respected expert on the Middle East. Mike Novogratz grew up catholic in Virginia, served as a helicopter pilot in the US Army, was formerly President of Fortress Investment Group, and is now the Founder and CEO of Galaxy Digital. He’s a globally recognized business and philanthropic leader.

They are two powerful voices that come from different worlds and have different perspectives on Israel and Gaza, but are united in focusing on finding peace and solutions. And last week in NYC, they were united on a unique and dynamic panel in an effort to educate people from all backgrounds about their personal experiences and thoughts for the future. And they both shared their riveting stories of what recently brought them back to the region after October 7th.

The event was titled Understanding Israel, and was hosted by friend of the show and former guest, Eli Elefant (Episode 252 - Nov. 16, 2022). And the panel with Ambassador Ginsberg and Mike Novogratz was moderated by our Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) and broadcast now exclusively by Righteous Media in this important, special new episode.

October 7th was a day the world will never forget. The horrific attack on Israel by Hammas left the world stunned. Israel’s military response has divided many. And the ripple effects of this time in history will be felt forever. Almost 100 days into this new war, as casualties continue to mount on all sides, this issue is as hot, complicated and emotional as it gets. People worldwide are divided, confused, angry, and many don’t know what to think about the issue and the many challenges it presents. But no matter where you stand on this issue, this episode will do what we always do on this show: bring light to contrast the heat—and generate thoughtful conversation about an issue of the highest priority. With leaders who sit at the critical intersection of politics and national security. This is an episode you won’t soon forget.

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 content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. 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.

MEET THE PANEL:
Ambassador Marc Ginsberg: Amb. Ginsberg spent his formative years in the Middle East (Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt) and was the first U.S. Ambassador of Jewish heritage to an Arab nation. Amb. Ginsberg is a National Security Advisor to the White House and Founding President of Coalition for a Safer Web, a non-profit dedicated to combating cyber terrorism and extremist incitement.

Michael Novogratz: Founder and CEO of Galaxy Digital. Mr. Novogratz was formerly a Partner and President of Fortress Investment Group LLC. He serves as the Chairman of The Bail Project making criminal justice reform a focus of his family’s foundation. Mr. Novogratz received an AB in Economics from Princeton University and served as a helicopter pilot in the US Army.

Paul Rieckoff, Moderator: An American writer, social entrepreneur, activist and veteran of the US Army and the Iraq War. Paul is a frequent contributor to The Rachel Maddow Show, Morning Joe, CNN New Day, CNN.com and Defense One.

-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.

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://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.[+] Show More