NEW EPISODE · AUGUST 13, 2026 · EP 599
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Vol. V · No. 599Friday Edition
Righteous MediaSince 1776. Est. 2019

Episode 118

Stephen Colbert (Rewind)

As America emerges from the pandemic, we’re taking a little break. But never fear, we’ve got a lot of good stuff in the archive.

The Brief

→ Four things from today’s episode
01

Rob learns another FDNY firefighter has died of a 9/11 illne. Rob learns another FDNY firefighter has died of a 9/11 illness 30 minutes before recording — and drops the running count: 257 FDNY, close to 500 NYPD, thousands of civilians

02

Why "never forget" has become a punchline. and what it should actually mean

03

The moral injury connecting sick 9/11 responders and abandon. The moral injury connecting sick 9/11 responders and abandoned Afghanistan veterans: same broken promise, same government

04

Rob on the 13 shot glasses lining bars after Kabul. "Where the fuck were the glasses for the last 20 years?"

As America emerges from the pandemic, we’re taking a little break. But never fear, we’ve got a lot of good stuff in the archive. And if you’ve never heard this episode you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, we think you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again. 

From Episode 78 – Sept. 25, 2020:

“Fear is the mind killer. If you’re laughing you’re not afraid.” Wise words in this groundbreaking new episode from a truly iconic guest: Stephen Colbert (@StephenAtHome). Stephen joins us from his home–uninterrupted and unedited in this fun, candid and inspiring episode. As we enter the most trying and important fall of our lifetime, Angry Americans is bringing in the big guns to get you through this trying time. And there are few bigger than Stephen Colbert. 

 President Mayhem is sheer chaos. He’s doing anything and everything he can to disrupt our country, our unity and our day. And this conversation is the antidote. Stephen and host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) break down the current state of the country and what the future might hold. Stephen beams in from his home office and shares wisdom, jokes and some amazing stories. He talks about his trip to Iraq to visit the troops and why he shaved his head while he was there. His first car story is one of the best we’ve ever had. His answer to what makes him happy is heartwarming. But also painful. And expensive. This is Stephen Colbert like you’ve never heard him before. You’ll just have to listen.

Independent Americans is a full dose of light to contrast all the divisive heat of other political pods. We’re joining your summer cookout with a special delivery of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. And a conversation to wake you up—and to help you stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. If you’re a concerned citizen who cares about the future America, this is your pod.