121. Willie Geist. 4th of July Special (Rewind). Our V-C Day (Victory over COVID) Is Finally Here. Independence/Independents Day. Morning Joe vs Donald Trump. July 4th in a Pandemic. The Wu-Tang Question. Mount Rushmore Was Infected with The Sickness.

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. MSNBC’s Willie Geist joined Paul at the height of the pandemic on July 3, 2020 in Episode 66. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From July 3, 2020: Willie Geist (@WillieGeist) is one of the most beloved leaders in American media. The co-host of Morning Joe and Host of NBC’s TODAY, Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist, and the Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist podcast, is back on Angry Americans for a uniquely candid, extended and fun conversation with his buddy, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff). Willie was our first every guest on the pod back in Episode 1. And now, he’s finally back to talk about life hosting the show that Trump watches (and attacks) on a regular basis, interviewing newsmakers from his garage, his favorite band, fatherhood in the pandemic, and his love of hip-hop. It’s Willie Geist like you’ve never heard him before–as the master interviewer becomes the interviewee.  Angry Americans is the freshest and realist breakdown of the news in America–and jumped to the top of the political and news podcast charts worldwide. Paul Rieckhoff takes you into the July 4th holiday with a laid-back, fun, and at times serious, conversation with one of the most influential voices in America. The renowned activist and author also rips through the most important stories shaping the future of our country. Russian bounties paid to kill US troops, Trump’s decision to finally wear a mask, the skyrocketing number of coronavirus cases at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and push to change the names of military bases dedicated to traitorous racists. And presents “Operation Free America”—a strategy to combat Trump. Fresh off news-making appearances on CNN with Chris Cuomo and MSNBC with Ari Melber and shout-outs from Chuck D of Public Enemy, Rieckhoff tears into all of it.  Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful – even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” –That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this show with Willie and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires–and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. You can also watch video of this full conversation: > And stay vigilant, America. 

120. Rosie Perez. Summertime Special (REWIND). The Legendary Actress Sounds Off on the Weinstein Verdict, the Problem with Bernie, and Rosie vs Rudy (Giuliani).

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. The iconic actress Rosie Perez joined Paul fresh off the Weinstein verdict on February 27, 2020 in Episode 48. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From February 27, 2020 – Episode 48: Legendary actor and activist Rosie Perez (@RosiePerezBklyn) is a fighter. And this is the Oscar-nominated icon like you’ve never heard her before. Uncensored, candid and timely, Rosie shares her harrowing path to success that you’ll never forget. One of the most beloved actors of our time, she’s also a life-long activist, survivor, philanthropist, author, choreographer and boxing expert. An advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS, the people of Puerto Rico, survivors of sexual assault and anyone anywhere facing mental illness. Rosie also knows and loves boxing. Always the skilled analyst, truth-teller and lesson-teacher, “The First Lady of Boxing” breaks down the massive heavyweight championship fight between Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder, shares her candid thoughts on the groundbreaking Harvey Weinstein verdict after her recent testimony in the trial, reflects on her time as a co-host of The View, digs into Trump and the Democratic candidates, and talks about her amazing first car.   Rosie is a great American success story. After surviving a childhood of abuse, losing her mother to AIDS, and living in a foster group home, she has risen to become an inspiration to millions worldwide. First making her name as a dancer on Soul Train and as a choreographer for the Fly Girls on TV’s In Living Color, she exploded into fame after unforgettable parts in Do the Right Thing and White Men Can’t Jump. Rosie would rise to an Oscar nomination for her role in Fearless, a seat co-hosting ABC’s The View, and authoring Handbook for an Unpredictable Life: How I Survived Sister Renata and My Crazy Mother, and Still Came Out Smiling (with Great Hair). President Obama appointed her to The Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) and she has served as the Artistic Chair of Urban Arts Partnership–an arts education nonprofit that supports public schools and is also devoted to supporting immigrants, LGBTQ, special needs and at-risk students. Rosie now stars alongside Anne Hathaway, Ben Affleck, and Willem Dafoe, in the Netflix film The Last Thing He Wanted, which is set around the Iran-Contra scandal during the Reagan administration. She also stars in the action film Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey with Margot Robbie, the forthcoming HBO series The Flight Attendant and the children’s film, Clifford the Big Red Dog.  Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful – even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” –That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this show with Rosie and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires–and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. You can also watch video of this full conversation: And stay vigilant, America. 

119. Wes Moore. Father’s Day Special (REWIND). Candidate For Governor of Maryland, Best-Selling Author and Veteran. On Fatherhood, Leadership, Crime and Inspiration.

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. Wes Moore recently declared his candidacy for Governor of Maryland, and this one is more relevant than ever. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  Wes Moore (@iamWesMoore) is an inspiring force for good and one of the most exciting and dynamic leaders in America. Wes is a best-selling author, activist, combat veteran and CEO of Robin Hood (@RobinHoodNYC). And now, a candiate for Governor of Maryland.  His book, The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates describes his inspiring rise from inner city Baltimore to a Rhodes Scholarship and is an international phenomenon that will soon be a major motion picture produced by Oprah Winfrey. The 82nd Airborne combat veteran of Afghanistan and regular on Morning Joe joins Angry Americans and his old friend, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) for a deep and inspiring conversation about leadership, poverty, crime and parenting.  It’s a real and riveting conversation between Rieckhoff and another iconic, important and inspiring American that is shaping what our country is and what it will be in the future. The kind of conversation between two renowned thought-leaders that is defining Independent Americans.  Independent Americans is 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. Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful – even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” –That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this show with Wes and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires–and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. You can also watch video of this full conversation: And stay vigilant, America. 

118. Stephen Colbert (Rewind). A Look Back at the Best of the Best. Taking on Trump, The Supreme Court Battle, Breonna Taylor, Leadership After Loss, Stephen’s Dog Eating Ai Weiwei’s Art, Joking in the Face of Fear, Laughing at the Devil.

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. Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful – even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” –That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this show with Stephen and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires–and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. You can also watch video of this full conversation: And stay vigilant, America.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

117. Henry Rollins (REWIND). A look back at one of the best of the best. The punk legend and activist shares the epic story of his big break. And sounds off on the state of America.

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 Feb. 29, 2020: With America disrupted and divided like never before in our lifetime, what better time to sit down with the American icon, punk rock legend, thought-leader, author, political activist and spoken-word master, Henry Rollins (@HenryRollins). Henry is one of the most interesting, most experienced, most entertaining, most thought-provoking activists in the world. And a conscience for America.  Henry Rollins has been a music and cultural innovator for three decades. From his early days as the front man for Black Flag and The Rollins Band, to films to TV to books to hosting his own radio and TV show, Henry is a voice of power, insight and clarity. He’s journeyed around the world as a curious traveller, a musician and and touring for his music and spoken word shows. He’s seen over 100 countries, been to war zones, won a Grammy, and acted alongside Al Pacino. He’s an activist for gay rights, freeing of the “West Memphis Three”, legalization of cannabis and has performed for US troops on USO tours in Djibouti, Kuwait, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan (twice), Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Honduras, Japan, Korea and the United Arab Emirates. If you love Henry Rollins, this will give you a fix like you’ve never had before. If you don’t know Henry Rollins, welcome to a ride you won’t forget. He’s a great American success story. And he’s known our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff), for almost two decades. And before a live audience in Hollywood on Valentine’s Day, they candidly, rapid-fire rip through topics ranging from Henry’s epic breakout moment on a New York stage in 1981, to how technology is ruining dating, to his analysis on all the leading candidates for President.  It’s an amazing conversation to inspire–and to help you stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. Especially this summer.  Independent Americans is a mosh pit of light to contrast all the poseur 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. Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful – even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” –That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this show with Henry and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires–and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. You can also watch video of this full conversation: And stay vigilant, America. 

116: Sebastian Junger. FREEDOM. The Iconic Author on His Must-Read New Book, Memorial Day, Losing His Close Friend in Combat, Walking Across America, Almost Dying, President Biden, the Soul of America, Smoking Cigarettes and Getting Shot At.

  Sebastian Junger is one of the most important authors, thinkers and public intellectuals in America. And one of the most interesting guys you’ll ever hear. He’s also a true badass and adventurer—the spirit of Hemingway—who joined us in Episode 100 and is back to talk candidly about his highly-anticipated, sure-to-be-best-selling new book, Freedom.    Throughout history, humans have been driven by the quest for two cherished ideals: community and freedom. The two don’t coexist easily: we value individuality and self-reliance, yet are utterly dependent on community for our most basic needs. In this intricately crafted and thought-provoking book, Sebastian examines this tension that lies at the heart of what it means to be human. Over a year, Sebastian and three friends—a combat photographer and two War vets—walked the railroad lines of America. It was an experiment in personal autonomy, but also in interdependence. Dodging railroad cops, sleeping under bridges, cooking over fires and drinking from creeks and rivers, the men forged a unique reliance on one another. Junger weaves his account of this journey together with primatology and boxing strategy, the history of labor strikes and Apache raiders, the role of women in resistance movements, and the brutal reality of life on the Pennsylvania frontier. Written in exquisite, razor-sharp prose, the result is a powerful examination of the primary desire that defines us. Junger is the #1 NY Times Bestselling author of The Perfect Storm, Fire, A Death In Belmont, War and Tribe and the visionary filmmaker behind Restrepo, Korengal and Which Way Is The Front Line From Here? He is also the Founder of RISC (Reporters Instructed in Saving Colleagues)–a non-profit dedicated to promoting the safety of freelance journalists working in conflict zones.  Sebastian has been in the toughest war zones all over the world–and told stories about what happens in war and what happens after. He’s a defender of democracy. A keeper of the flame. And a conscience for America. He again joins our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff), for a real and extended conversation that will leave you informed and inspired. Rieckhoff also presses Sebastian to share the pieces of the book he left out, the time he almost died, what he’s looking forward to this summer and, as with all returning guests–pancakes v waffles.  It’s amazing conversation to inspire–and to help you stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. Especially this summer.  Independent Americans is a summer BBQ of light to contrast all the stinky 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. Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful – even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” –That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this show with Sebastian and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires–and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And stay vigilant, America.

May 21, 2021- MSNBC – Deadline Whitehouse – Ted Cruz Insults the Military

Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff joins MSNBC’s Nicole Wallace and the Bulwark’s Charlie Sykes for a discussion on Ted Cruz’s continued asinine behavior.

May 18, 2021 – Stand Up with Pete Dominick

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/355-veteran-and-host-of-indepdent-americans-paul-rieckhoff/id1485475085?i=1000522337502 Paul joins Pete Dominick for a discussion that ranges from parenting and plumbing disasters to national security in this episode of Stand Up! with Pete Dominick.

Join Us for a Zoom Happy Hour!

It’s May and we’re celebrating! Join us for a Righteous Zoom Happy Hour tonight. It’s open to anyone so feel free to invite your friends and family. Details listed below: Time: May 20, 2021 08:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Happy Hour Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/95412051502?pwd=OGdvNEFlQmlUZmt6bTQzbzFvc2VQUT09 Super secret stuff: Meeting ID: 954 1205 1502 Passcode: 29iwK1

115. Molly McKew. Unpacking Cyber Attacks Hitting America–from SolarWinds to the Colonial Pipeline. Who is DarkSide? What Will Hackers Hit Next? Congress Votes To Investigate the Insurrection. Lollapalooza, Talladega & T-ball.

We’re finally winning the war against the coronavirus. But what about the next war?
While many in Congress want you to breeze past the pandemic failures, or the failures to stop a predictable and preventable insurrection attack, new attacks are happening right now. And have been happening for years. And as the summer comes and Americans get less vigilant, our enemies are attacking. 
Russian-backed hackers attacked our 2016 election. Last year, more Russian-backed hackers executed the SolarWinds attack that hit nine federal agencies and over 100 companies–including thirty-seven defense companies. They even hit the office at the Department of Homeland Security that is supposed to protect federal computer systems from cyberattacks. And this month, Colonial Pipeline got hit. A company that transports hundreds of millions of gallons of gasoline from Texas to New York got hacked by ransomware that shut down the pipeline and sent gas prices soaring. And there have been countless other attacks on America that you’ve never heard of. And there will be countless more. 
So before you relax and enjoy your maskless summer, we’re gonna stay vigilant and dig into ways you can protect yourself, your country and your future. With a leader who is pretty damn good at predicting the future. Information warfare and Russian influence expert, Molly McKew (@MollyMcKew). After joining us in Episode 84, one of our most popular guests is back. McKew has traveled the world studying, analyzing and advising on the most urgent cybersecurity, misinformation and technology-based threats. An adjunct professor at Georgetown, McKew teaches Russian hybrid warfare. Which is a pretty timely topic right about now. 
It’s another conversation to inspire–and to help you stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.
Independent Americans is bringing an upload of light to contrast all the malware heat of other political pods. We’re hacking into your mainframe with the power 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 of your country, this is your pod. 
Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month.
Political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, “what all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful – even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.”
You can also watch video of this show with Molly McKew and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Mayor Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires–and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.
You can also watch video of this full conversation:
https://youtu.be/HwBhF3YO49Q
And stay vigilant, America.