NEW EPISODE · AUGUST 12, 2026 · EP 598
598 EPISODES SUBSCRIBE →
Vol. V · No. 598Wednesday Edition
Righteous MediaSince 1776. Est. 2019

Episode 409

Rieckhoff on Brutal Bombings in Ukraine, ICE Shooting

  In this all–new “quick response pod,” Paul checks in from a cold New York City and connects the chill in the air to the brutally cold reality on the ground in Ukraine after a

The Brief

→ Four things from today’s episode
01

Joe Manchin on being the one vote that made the 117th Congress work. and why setting hard parameters forced both parties to negotiate

02

Heather Manchin's "canyon chart". billions on the left, billions on the right, and a politically homeless sensible majority in the middle

03

Why 47 states run partisan primaries and 16 states shut inde. Why 47 states run partisan primaries and 16 states shut independents out completely — and why taxpayers are funding elections they can't fully participate in

04

The Montana breakdown. Seth Bodnar needs 220,000 votes, out-raised both party candidates, and now has a true three-way race




 

In this all–new “quick response pod,” Paul checks in from a cold New York City and connects the chill in the air to the brutally cold reality on the ground in Ukraine after a new wave of Russian attacks on civilians and infrastructure. On his birthday, he reflects on sacrifice, leadership, and the inspiration he draws from people fighting for freedom in Ukraine, Iran, across America, and around the world—and calls on listeners to speak out, push back, and look out for each other.

Paul also tees up two powerful new conversations: a fresh report from inside Kyiv with counteroffensive reporter Tim Mak on wartime innovation and technology, and the return of actor and patriot Ron Perlman—star of Hellboy, Sons of Anarchy, and more—bringing his trademark fire back to the show. He shares big news about Independent Americans cracking the top 40 on the Apple Podcasts news charts, thanks the vigilant community that helped get it there, and doubles down on why independent media, integrity, and truth-telling matter more than ever in the face of Putin, Trump, and anyone trying to shut people up or shut them down.

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. 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 this episode on YouTube now.