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  In this special episode of Independent Americans, your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is joined by his old friend and colleague, John Reid, who is now the Republican nominee for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia—and the first openly gay candidate from a major party for statewide office in state history. John opens up about the cutthroat realities of running for office, the personal attacks he’s faced, the real mental and physical risks in today’s political climate—including wearing a bulletproof vest on the campaign trail—and why he believes fairness, respect, and honest debate are needed more than ever. They talk about food insecurity among military families during the federal shutdown, political hypocrisy in both parties, practical paths for bipartisan progress in Virginia, and the surprising story behind Reid’s viral AI “debate” with his Democratic opponent. Plus, John shares why he remains a Republican, how his campaign has inspired young people, and what gives him hope. It’s a look at what it’s like to run in 2025, what it’s like to be openly gay in the Republican party, to run an outsider campaign, and what it takes to stand up for what you believe in. It’s a respectful and candid conversation with two guys who disagree on some things— but agree on many more. Especially their love for their country.  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. –WATCH video of this episode. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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.

  Everything is about national security. Especially right now. From troops in US streets, to strikes on boats in the Caribbean, to Ukraine and Putin, to Trump’s crazy and now regular speeches to military audiences. There’s lots of chaos and drama. But the chaos and drama about war and conflict are most important. And it sounds like Trump and Hegseth want more.  Former CNN National Security reporter and veteran Pentagon press leader Barbara Starr is a highly-respected and wise legend in journalism. For decades, she’s covered the military, Secretaries of Defense and Presidents. She’s seen it all. But like Ohatani last night, or the magnitude of Hurricane Melissa slamming into Jamaica right now, nobody’s seen the stuff we’re seeing now from Trump and Hegseth focused in and around our military. And it may be coming to your city or two next.  Barbara returns to break down an America at the tipping point on the latest daily episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff). They tackle the new threats facing the U.S. military, the politicization of the armed forces, attacks on the Pentagon press corps, lessons from Venezuela, and the importance of defending the Constitution and press freedom amid chaos. Barbara also shares the vital importance of the First Amendment as the constitutional backbone of democracy, and why mentorship, courage, and vigilance are essential for journalists, troops, and citizens alike. Topped with uplifting reflections on Shohei Ohtani’s sportsmanship, the lessons of Sandy Kofax, and the enduring strength of the Constitution, this is a must-listen for anyone invested in America’s future who wants to stay ahead of the news. And understand what’s most important.  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. –WATCH video of this episode. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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 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.

  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. –WATCH video of this episode. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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 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.

  Episode 359 of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff)  delivers an unflinching look at the crisis facing the Democratic Party and the state of American politics. Former DNC Chair Jaime Harrison joins Paul for an urgent, candid, and often funny conversation about the future of the Democrats, the failure of leadership on both sides, and how to fight back against extremism without losing our humanity. From the toxic culture of cable news to the erosion of civility in Washington, Paul and Jaime cover it all—authenticity, fatherhood, faith, and what it means to model leadership for the next generation. Harrison opens up about his time running the DNC, the frustration of rule-followers in an age of chaos, and why the Democratic brand is in real danger. They dig into strategy, messaging failure, rising independent voters, and the crucial fight for 2028. And because it’s Friday, the conversation closes with sports—NBA predictions, college football picks, and why being a Knicks fan feels an awful lot like being a Democrat in 2025. This must-listen conversation is sharp, thoughtful, and necessary for anyone trying to make sense of American politics right now. Stay vigilant, America. –WATCH video of this episode. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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 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.

  Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) brings you the most real, raw, and independent perspective you can get, all from deep inside America’s chaos. In Episode 358, host Paul Rieckhoff broadcasts straight from his kitchen in a no-holds-barred solo episode tackling the latest madness from Washington and beyond. From President Trump literally destroying parts of the White House to chaos in Maine’s Senate race and shocking developments in national security operations off Venezuela, Rieckhoff is connecting the dots others won’t. And just to make sure you know it’s still 2025, the bizarro world news continues with Rand Paul stepping up as the voice of reason when it comes to our use of the military. Yes, that Rand Paul. This episode breaks down America’s crisis of democracy, national security overreach, and the broken primary system that fuels the political circus—all while mixing in a little Knicks talk and cultural perspective.  This is the first in a new format of fast, unfiltered, real-time reactions from one of America’s most independent voices. If you care about truth, accountability, and our future, this one’s for you. Stay vigilant. –WATCH video of this episode. Past appearances by Dan Lamothe: Episode 96, Episode 154, Episode 185, Episode 206, Episode 245, Episode 318 and Episode 332. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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 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. 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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  357. Dan Lamothe. Hegseth’s War On The Pentagon Press Corp. The Media Walkout You Missed. Trump’s Propaganda Plan Rolls On. Artillery Shells Send Shrapnel Over CA Highway. More Strikes on Venezuelan Boats. Hegseth & Platner’s Nazi Tattoos. Govs vs Trump.  The Pentagon press corps has walked out. The briefings have stopped. And the most powerful military in the world is being wielded in ways few Americans understand. In Episode 357, Washington Post national security reporter Dan Lamothe returns to Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff to break down an unprecedented crisis of transparency inside the Department of Defense. Lamothe explains why major news outlets—including the Washington Post, New York Times, and Politico—vacated their Pentagon offices after losing access, how coverage has been replaced by YouTubers, far right-wing propagandists and the MyPillow guy’s TV network, —and what it means for democracy, accountability, and military families. He and your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) unpack the live-fire debacle over a California highway, potential unlawful orders surrounding Venezuela strikes, and how governors and journalists are pushing back against a White House testing the boundaries of power. Rieckhoff and Lamothe also explore the moral and national security implications of collapsing standards inside the military, from extremist symbols to politicized operations. They talk about what’s next for Pentagon leadership, the risk of normalization amid chaos, and the urgent need for vigilance. It’s one of the most important and explosive episodes yet—a conversation that underscores the cost of silence when truth itself is under siege. Stay vigilant, America. –WATCH video of this episode. Past appearances by Dan Lamothe: Episode 96, Episode 154, Episode 185, Episode 206, Episode 245, Episode 318 and Episode 332. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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 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. 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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  Join host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff)  for candid, high-energy conversations with four trailblazing independent Senate candidates: Ty Pinkins (MS), Todd Achilles (ID), Brian Bengs (SD), and Dan Osborn (NE). Powered by Righteous Media, this episode pulls back the curtain on the lives, values, and humor driving the next wave of American politics. Discover why these independent candidates have stepped into the arena, what inspires their campaign music (from Marvin Gaye to bluegrass), and how their personal journeys shape their vision for America from Mississippi to Idaho. These leaders are united by their belief in country over party and the urgent need for new energy in our politics. 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. –Support Todd Achilles’ campaign here. –Support Ty Pinkins’ campaign here. –Support Dan Osoborn’s campaign here. –Support Brian Bengs’ campaign here. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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 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 is facing unprecedented division and anxiety, but this is also a moment of new possibilities and bold leadership. In this powerful episode, your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) continues the Meet the Independent Candidate series with Ty Pinkins—army veteran, lawyer, lifelong Mississippian, and independent candidate for US Senate. Pinkins shares his compelling personal journey from the cotton fields to the campaign trail, discusses the failures of both parties, and lays out why Mississippi—and America—need true independent voices now more than ever. Packed with the kind of real, unfiltered conversation you won’t hear elsewhere, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about breaking up the partisan gridlock, challenging big money in politics, and unifying the country. 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 Paul and Ty’s conversation. –Visit Ty’s campaign site and learn more about his race. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and 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 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.