Category: Episodes

The story that remains underreported is how much Trump ISN’T getting. He’s a freight train as nominee—but still NOT getting 30%. AND, he’s continuing to struggle with moderates in his own party and especially with independents (as revealed most vividly in New Hampshire). It continues to underscore his general election weakness. Which is revealed (AND increasing) with Haley in.  And on the other side, Biden is inevitable—but failing with 15% of “uncommitted” protest votes AGAINST him. And another 3% going to Williamson—who dropped out. He continues to struggle with progressive Dems due to Israel—and his age. And he’ll struggle with some independents on that—and with Kamala Harris as VP. And too many forget (especially in the media) that RFK Jr (unfortunately) continues to have the highest favorability rating of all the candidates, is polling over 20%, and will likely gain momentum in coming months. Especially among critical independents. 2024 is all about moving a critical and rising number of #IndependentAmericans. That’s the final battlefield. It’s all gonna come down to them. This year—and likely every Presidential year to come.  We independents are the key. And the future.  And we’ve got the perfect guest to help break it all down.  Michael Steele (@MichaelSteele) is back and always he’s bringing the heat (Hear/watch his previous appearances in Episode 193 from Oct 2022 and Episode 222 from May 2023). The Former Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Former Lt. Gov. of Maryland has served in all levels of elected and government office and is now a Political Analyst for MSNBC and the host of his own influential political podcast.  He knows politics like the back of his hand and he’s not holding back. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And it always delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Check out Michael Steele on Twitter, watch him on MSNBC and subscribe to The Michael Steele Podcast.  –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.  – WATCH video of Paul and Michael’s conversation on our YouTube channel here. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on social media. 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 powerful, independent Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel – The OG of Weed and B Dorm.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a little different. It’s a quick hit episode from host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff)–with a reading of his recent op-ed that appeared on Smerconish.com (co-authored with John Opdycke(@jbopdycke, the President of Open Primaries). It highlights the influence of independent voters in the New Hampshire primary, making specific note of independent’s support of candidates Nikki Haley and Dean Phillips. While neither candidate won their primary, their performance underscored the challenges for Trump and Biden going forward. And what 2024 means for America–and for independents.  Will 2024 be the year independent voters gain recognition in a political landscape dominated by partisan influences? Will there be an increased focus on independents, who constitute the largest and fastest-growing segment of the electorate, spanning diverse demographics and states?  Independents are fed up with partisan politics and want a more collaborative political environment. We want change. We want better. In 2024, will we be heard?  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff provides light to contrast the heat. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And every episode delivers a dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. This is another insightful pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Stay vigilant, America.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon. Where you can also see or watch extra content with this guest.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us–where you can also grab some cool IA gear. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Super Bowl is over and the Chiefs are the champs. MAGA is sad about that for some reason, but don’t worry they’ll have something new to be upset about soon enough. From mysterious new Russian space nukes, to Biden’s old age to another looming government shutdown. It’s a lot. And then throw Trump’s 91 felony indictments on top of that and it’s nearly impossible to keep track of. But never fear vigilant listener, we’ve got just the answer. An expert in all things law, Trump and national security. She’s a returning favorite and she’s bringing the heat. Asha Rangappa (@AshaRangappa_) is our guest. A true American badass, she is an Assistant Dean and Senior Lecturer at Yale University’s Jackson School of Global Affairs and a former Associate Dean at Yale Law School. She served as a Special Agent in the New York Division of the FBI, specializing in counterintelligence investigations. Her work involved assessing threats to national security, conducting classified investigations on suspected foreign agents, and performing undercover work.  She’s the perfect guest to break it all down before the trials start (or don’t in some cases) and get you caught up and up to speed on all things Trump. From DC to Georgia she gives her straight and often sobering assessment of the situation ahead and how and when it will unfold.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) provides light to contrast the heat. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And every episode delivers a dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. This is another insightful pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Stay vigilant, America.  -Watch Paul and Asha’s conversion on YouTube. -Asha’s excellent Substack The Freedom Academy with Asha Rangappa -See us at SXSW: Independents: Wielding the Power to End Polarization – Mar 9, 20244:00pm – 5:00pm CT Battle Scars & Sacred Plants: Veterans Championing Psychedelics for PTSD – 12 MAR from 10-11a at 800 Congress -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon. Where you can also see or watch extra content with this guest.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us–where you can also grab some cool IA gear. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Super Bowl week in America. And it’s a Super Bowl year of politics and national security. And as the world focuses on America’s big game, it’s also focused on America’s dysfunction. And so are we. The border deal has collapsed, funding for Ukraine and Israel is stalled, and the election division across the country is reaching peak levels of nasty and stupid. It’s an especially ugly time in America–as America again thrusts itself in the global spotlight. But there are glimmers of hope–and even fun. And in this smart, fast and fun episode, we’re digging into all of it. As only Independent America does. From Putin and Zelensky to Mahomes and Tony Romo. From the fight for The Lombardi Trophy, to the fight of our time, this is a conversation for everyone. And one of the most surprising and interesting ones you’ll hear this Super Bowl week.  Matt Gallagher is of the most important writers of our time, especially touching on issues of war and national security. And a sharp, real and funny voice of reason for America. He is the internationally-recognized author of the novels Empire City, Youngblood, the forthcoming Daybreak, the class Iraq war memoir Kaboom, and a finalist for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize. His work has appeared in Esquire, ESPN, The New York Times, The Paris Review and Wired. He’s also co-editor of the short fiction collection Fire & Forget: Short Stories from the Long War. He’s a popular, funny and insightful voice—including on Twitter–on everything from politics and war to his beloved Cleveland Browns.  Matt was featured in Vanity Fair as one of the voices of a new generation of American war literature. A graduate of Wake Forest and Columbia, Matt is a 2021-23 fellow with the Tulsa Artist Fellowship, based in Oklahoma, and a US Army veteran of the Iraq war. He lives with his wife, young sons and dog in Tulsa and works as a writing instructor for NYU’s Words After War program– devoted to bringing vets and civilians together to study conflict literature.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) provides light to contrast the heat. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And every episode delivers a dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. This is another insightful pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Stay vigilant, America.  Matt’s previous appearances on IA: Episode 161 – March 18, 2022 Episode 215 – March 23, 2023 -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon. Where you can also see or watch extra content with this guest.  -Pre-order Matt’s new book Daybreak now here. -Meet Matt on one of his book tour dates nationwide–or invite him to visit your area.   -Watch the full video of this conversation with Paul and Matt here.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us–where you can also grab some cool IA gear. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Super Bowl time in America. And 2024 is a year-long Super Bowl FOR America. Stakes have never been higher. And just like for a Super Bowl team, leaders will be the difference.  And Alex Vindman (@AVindman) has been a QB for America stepping up in the biggest moments for years now. He was thrust onto the national scene back in October of 2019 as the news was revealed that Trump had tried to shake down the then unknown President of Ukraine. A brave whistle blower stood his ground and held the line against Trump and as a result, changed the course of history.  It was an inspiring moment for our democracy—and a sign of what was coming. A lot has happened since then. But the core issues are the same —and now more urgent than ever. As American troops abroad face increasing threats on a daily basis, with three recently being killed in Jordan, there’s no better time to hear from a man who was Director for European Affairs for the United States National Security Council (NSC). A man who helped bring some measure of justice to the former President, and a guy who was at the center of what could still end up being the beginning of World War Three.  Welcome to a reminder of what it means to be a patriot in the truest sense of the word. Welcome to Independent Americans, Episode 265. Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) provides light to contrast the heat. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And every episode delivers a dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. This is another insightful pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Stay vigilant, America.  -Follow Alex on social media and check out his substack. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon. Where you can also see or watch extra content with this guest.   -Watch the full video of this conversation with Paul and Alex here.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -To support the families of the troops killed in Jordan—and other families like them—please learn more and support TAPS.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us–where you can also grab some cool IA gear. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The New Hampshire primary is over–and independents were a huge factor. Just as they will be in the general election in November. Who did they vote for? What do they care about? And who can appeal to them now—and in the future? And what’s next for Nikki Haley, Trump, Biden and the rest in this chaotic sprint to the summer nominating conventions? Michael Smerconish (@Smerconish is back on IA to chop it up with Paul on all that. And, to rip into Jason Kelce’s shirtless emergence as America’s man of the people (and what it reveals–heh heh–about our politics in 2024), why more voters aren’t responding to Dean Phillips, why so many are responding to RFK Jr, who is on the bench for the Dems and Republicans, who can galvanize all this independent energy, and who’s gonna win the Super Bowl??? We’re digging into all of it in a fast and fun episode with your two favorite outspoken, bald and bearded, independent, white guys! Michael Smerconish is a longtime political commentator, radio host, TV host, best-selling author, and maybe the single most high profile political independent in the media. A guy who has served as a guest host for voices on all sides of the political spectrum. He’s been a guest host for Chris Matthews AND for Bill O’Reilly. For Chris Cuomo AND for Glen Beck. And he’s the host of his own SiriusXM radio and CNN TV show. And Paul Rieckhoff’s stunt double! You can learn more and subscribe to his free daily newsletter here.  Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) provides light to contrast the heat. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And every episode delivers a dose of the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. This is another insightful pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  Stay vigilant, America.  -Check out Michael’s previous appearance here: Episode 151 -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.   -Watch the full video of this conversation with Paul and Michael here.  -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us–where you can also grab some cool IA gear. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence, combat, death, sexual assault, violence against children and more.   Dorin Cohen grew up in Ashkelon, Israel and most recently lived in Kibbutz Kfar Aza with her husband, Itamar, and her two young boys, Adam and Jonathan, where they survived nearly 30 hours in their bomb shelter on October 7. Dorin has a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Ono Academic College and is currently pursuing an advanced studies degree in Child Development at Bar-Ilan University. Earlier this month in New York at an event titled Understanding Israel, Dorin bravely shared her story. It’s a story of unthinkable cruelty, an unprecedented moment, and unparalleled heroism. You might think you know the story of October 7th, but you haven’t heard it through Dorin’s eyes. Hers is a story that is much bigger than the division that has unfolded around the world since Oct 7th and the combat that has followed. Dorin’s story is one of a young mother, a wife, a human being, and a hero–who showed a kind of courage that few will ever know. No matter where you stand on Israel/Gaza/Palestine, this is a story you need to hear. Because it’s about much more than Hamas and Israel, it’s about the most basic brutalities and beauties of humanity. And it’s a story everyone in the world must hear.  It comes from the Understanding Israel event that was hosted by friend of the show and former guest, Eli Elefant (Episode 252 – Nov. 16, 2022). Dorin was introduced by her friend, Rachael Braverman. And her unforgettable talk followed the panel with Ambassador Marc Ginsberg and Mike Novogratz that was moderated by our Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) and broadcast exclusively by Righteous Media in our previous, important, special Episode 262 posted last week.  After experiencing this unimaginable trauma, Dorin and her family are now working to build a new life–maybe in Israel–maybe in America. You can help them on this path by donating what you can to this GoFundMe page set up by their friends.  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 content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. 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.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  -Watch Dorin Cohen’s powerful remarks from the Understanding Israel event on YouTube. -Donate to help Dorin and her family. And encourage others to do the same.  –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 a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.  -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’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ambassador Marc Ginsberg grew up in Israel, became America’s first jewish ambassador to an Arab nation, and currently leads The Coalition for a Safer Web, a non-profit dedicated to combating cyber terrorism and extremist incitement. He’s a diplomatic powerhouse and deeply respected expert on the Middle East. Mike Novogratz grew up catholic in Virginia, served as a helicopter pilot in the US Army, was formerly President of Fortress Investment Group, and is now the Founder and CEO of Galaxy Digital. He’s a globally recognized business and philanthropic leader. They are two powerful voices that come from different worlds and have different perspectives on Israel and Gaza, but are united in focusing on finding peace and solutions. And last week in NYC, they were united on a unique and dynamic panel in an effort to educate people from all backgrounds about their personal experiences and thoughts for the future. And they both shared their riveting stories of what recently brought them back to the region after October 7th.  The event was titled Understanding Israel, and was hosted by friend of the show and former guest, Eli Elefant (Episode 252 – Nov. 16, 2022). And the panel with Ambassador Ginsberg and Mike Novogratz was moderated by our Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) and broadcast now exclusively by Righteous Media in this important, special new episode.  October 7th was a day the world will never forget. The horrific attack on Israel by Hamas left the world stunned. Israel’s military response has divided many. And the ripple effects of this time in history will be felt forever. Almost 100 days into this new war, as casualties continue to mount on all sides, this issue is as hot, complicated and emotional as it gets. People worldwide are divided, confused, angry, and many don’t know what to think about the issue and the many challenges it presents. But no matter where you stand on this issue, this episode will do what we always do on this show: bring light to contrast the heat—and generate thoughtful conversation about an issue of the highest priority. With leaders who sit at the critical intersection of politics and national security. This is an episode you won’t soon forget.  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 content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. 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.  -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  –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.  -Watch the Understanding Israel event on YouTube. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.  -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’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we head into what is almost sure to be a rocky 2024, we wanted to get you the best look ahead possible. So we brought back a fan favorite. A guest who isn’t afraid to make bold predictions. And a guest who’s smart enough to back them up. He’s a master of marketing, business, media and politics. He’s the great Prof G, Scott Galloway (@ProfGalloway), and he’s here to break down what the next few months will look like and why the market’s cause for concern might be a reason for you to be optimistic. He’s back after joining host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) for Episode 192 back on Oct. 13, 2022. Now as we enter a crucial election year, he’s here to share his thoughts on politics, the economy and America’s outlook on America. It’s a fascinating conversation that will leave you smarter and better prepared for whatever the hell is in store in 2024. 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 content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. 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 Scott’s conversation. -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  –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 a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.  -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’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2023 has been a big year for independents. And most of the time not in a good way. From Kyrsten Sinema to RFK Jr. to No Labels, 2023 was a steady succession of negative hits to the independent brand in all of the usual ways. Spoilers and grifters jumping on the bandwagon after being kicked off of all of the other wagons. Hangers on. Pretenders to the throne. Whatever you call them, we saw them all in 2023. And yet, there was one bright spot. A beacon shining in the dark night. A reason for hope in a year filled with mediocrity. Mayor Yemi Mobolade (@yemiformayor) rocked the political world when he was elected as the independent Mayor of Colorado Springs earlier this year. His infectious positivity swept him into office, winning the election in the conservative Colorado Springs mayoral race this last May.  But he’s more than just a mayor. He is our proof of concept. Proof that independents can win. And more importantly, win in places where Democrats can not. He’s also proof that you, the Independent American, are the future. So before we head into whatever 2024 has in store for us, let’s take a little time with host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) to look back to Episode 228 from June 22, 2023 to reflect on the victory that Mayor Mobolade represents and maybe carry a little of that optimistic spirit forward into the new year. The future is what we make it. Happy New Year America. 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 content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. 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 Yemi’s conversation. -Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.  –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 a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.  -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’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices