NEW EPISODE · JULY 23, 2026 · EP 581
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Vol. V · No. 581Thursday Edition
Righteous MediaSince 1776. Est. 2019

Episode 360

Barstool’s Captain Cons (Connor Crehan)

  Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff ( @PaulRieckhoff ) launches “Manosphere Monday” with Barstool Sports’ Connor Crehan, former co-host of Zero Block Thirty and host of Bold American Pod ( @BoldAmericanPod ).

The Brief

→ Four things from today’s episode
01

The human cost first. Sergeant Michael Emmanuel Swinton, 30, killed in Iraq, and two more service members killed in Jordan

02

50,000 US troops in harm's way and 40% of the Navy committed. 50,000 US troops in harm's way and 40% of the Navy committed to a war Congress never declared

03

Hegseth on the Hill with his hat in hand. after insisting he didn't need Congress in the first place

04

'First you commit the country, then you commit the troops'. the doctrine Trump inverted


Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) launches “Manosphere Monday” with Barstool Sports’ Connor Crehan, former co-host of Zero Block Thirty and host of Bold American Pod (@BoldAmericanPod). Host Paul Rieckhoff and Connor dive into a wide-ranging, candid conversation that bridges the military, sports, politics, and American parenthood. Together, they unpack today’s headlines—from troop deployments and civil-military divides, to the spectacle of social media politics, NFL injuries, and Army football’s unique code. Connor shares hard-won wisdom from army deployments and raising young kids, reflects on media responsibility, and examines how Barstool’s brutally honest brand resonates across divided America.

Connor Crehan is a former U.S. Army officer, West Point graduate, and proud New Jersey native who has become a prominent voice at the intersection of military service, sports, culture, and media. He’s the longtime co-host of Barstool Sports‘ influential “Zero Block Thirty” podcast, and recently launched the “Bold American Pod” on Barstool, continuing his commitment to honest, unfiltered conversation about veterans’ issues, leadership, and the challenges of modern American life. As a father of two young children and a passionate Army football supporter, Connor brings both hard-won perspective from combat deployments and sharp insights into the civil-military divide, media responsibility, and the realities of parenting today. He is widely respected for his candid approach, deep respect for service, and belief in building community through authentic dialogue and good humor. He’s a great dude, and this is another outstanding conversation from Independent Americans. We’re daily now. Expect more.

Because 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. Its 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.

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