343. Dan Osborn. The Independent Vet Is Running Again In Nebraska. The Mechanic vs The Billionaire. Agreeing With Tucker Carlson. Ukraine’s Support Grows. Who’s Your Favorite Ninja Turtle? Coach Youman Wilder – A True Helper. Look Out for the Youngsters. 

The summer of 2025 has been a time of chaos. A time of confusion. And a time of distress for many Americans. But for independent Americans it’s been a little bit different. In between all of the moments of turmoil have been glimmers of hope, a chance at a better future. And that better future is being driven by independents. From Jim Walden’s upstart mayoral campaign in New York City to the Badlands of South Dakota and Brian Bengs’ renegade Senate run, to last episode’s guest from the great state of Idaho, Todd Achilles — there’s been a lot coming from independents to get excited about. And now there’s more! Independent Navy vet Dan Osborn (@OsbornForSenate) is back in the fight. And this time, he’s running against Nebraska’s other MAGA Republican Senator billionaire: Pete Ricketts. It’s the ultimate David vs Goliath showdown. And this time, Dan’s got some experience, a network, name recognition and is hitting the ground running. Dan served in the Navy and later joined the Army National Guard. He’s a steamfitter, industrial mechanic, and a badass labor union leader. He led a successful strike at Kellogg’s Omaha plant in 2021. And ran for Senate in 2024–narrowly losing to incumbent Deb Fischer. But at the same time, Dan laid down the foundation for this run while inspiring a new generation of independent leaders across the country. His race was a direct challenge to the party system and it showed everyone a new way to run—and offered a new vision for what a political race can look like. If you’ve listened to the show for a while now, you’ll know Dan and what he’s meant to the movement. If you’re new here, get ready to get fired up. In the immortal words of Vin Diesel, “We live for this….” Stuff. And there’s more as your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) rips into Ukraine, Waltz, SignalGate, Hegseth and all of the latest national security news that you need to stay on top of. And a megadose of inspiration with a quick hit on Youman Wilder—a New York City little league coach that stood up to ICE and has inspired millions. Because Independent Americans is built on the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. And this episode has it in spades. Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. It’s the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s built for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent and we’re proud to stand with you. -Learn more about Dan Osborn and his race on his campaign website.  –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 Dan’s conversation. –NEW! Watch the video version of the entire podcast here. -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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

340. Senator Angus King. The Only Real Independent US Senator? Trump Bombs Iran. Now the Spin Begins. Can The Senate Stop Him? The Spirit of Joshua Chamberlain. Socialist Mamdani Wins NYC’s Rigged Primary. 1M Independents Blocked Out. The OKC Example. 

  Trump has bombed Iran. And now, the spin and politics is accelerating faster than a B-2 bomber.  And a political bomb dropped on NYC this week as 33-year-old socialist Zohran Mamdani conquered Andrew Cuomo and a cluttered Democratic primary. Now, he’ll take on a wacky Republican radio host, the compromised disaster that is Eric Adams, maybe Cuomo (ugh), and true independent and recent guest on this program, Jim Walden. But there’s also a big, largely-unreported story of what this really means for NYC and America. And about how 1M independents didn’t get a shot to be heard.  Paul Rieckhoff is quickly tearing into it while barreling through a heatwave. And, he has a fantastic and fascinating conversation with perhaps the most powerful independent in America.  Maine maverick Senator Angus King is not a Democrat or a Republican. But he is a true independent and a powerful voice of patriotism and conscience in Washington. He joins the show for the first time and shares his views on Trump’s Iran bombing campaign, his efforts to expand his power and the use of the military, and lays out how and if the Senate can do anything to slow him down. And, why he so strongly supports Ukraine—and shares a status update on the Senator Lindsey Graham-led Russia sanctions legislation. And for our Patreon members, there’s some extra content including the Senator’s favorite Maine drink, his first car and what’s playing on his playlist.  It’s smart, respectful, charming and inspiring. Everything that our divisive news and politics in Washington is not.  It’s the kind of conversation you can only find on this show.  And it’s the latest in our “Meet the Independents” series following other Independent leaders like Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade, independent candidate for Senate from South Dakota Brian Bengs, Independent candidate for Mayor of New York Jim Walden and Chattanooga, Tennessee Mayor Tim Kelly.  Welcome to Independent Americans, Episode 340. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 49% of Americans that call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  –WATCH video of Paul and Senator King’s conversation. –NEW! Watch the video version of the entire podcast here. Help us continue the fight to empower all independents by passing open primaries: In NYC: https://www.nycopenprimary.com/ And in NYC and nationwide with info from Unite America: https://www.uniteamerica.org/articles/1-in-5-nyc-voters-wont-have-a-say-in-choosing-the-next-mayor  And the fight for open primaries nationwide: https://openprimaries.org/ -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods 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

337. Mayor Tim Kelly. The Independent Mayor Of Chattanooga. Trump’s Extreme New Recruiting Ad. Elon Is Leaving DC. Hegseth Attacks The USNS Harvey Milk During Pride. Vets Rally In DC. Open Primaries Update. NBA Finals Predictions. Ukraine & Baseball. 

  America needs leaders. And leaders are in short supply. That seems to be the case in Washington at least. Whether it’s Pete Hegseth’s ongoing hateful attacks on the LGBTQ service members under his command or his self aggrandizing ad or the ongoing chaos at the Pentagon, none of it is efficient and none of it is making any of us any safer. America needs leaders. They’re out there. And more and more frequently they aren’t claiming either political party. Independent leaders we’ve profiled in recent episodes. Independent leaders like Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade, independent candidate for Senate from South Dakota Brian Bengs, Independent candidate for Mayor of New York Jim Walden. The future is independent—and chances are good that you’re going to hear from those leaders of the future here, first. That includes Chattanooga, Tennessee Mayor Tim Kelly. He’s just gotten reelected for a second term by a huge margin. And that’s in large part because he’s getting hard things done. Housing, crime, community relations and making the trains run on time. And, fixing potholes! He’s also bringing business, international sports and excitement to this important crossroads American city. Much of what Kelly had been doing and saying in Chattanooga could be a model for the rest of America. And he could be running for higher office one day down the line.  Welcome to Independent Americans, Episode 337. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 49% of Americans that call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  –Learn more about Mayor Kelly’s One Chattanooga plan.  –WATCH video of Paul and Mayor Kelly’s conversation. –NEW! Watch the video version of the entire podcast here. –Watch Paul on MSNBC with the top pitcher for Ukraine’s national baseball team that is touring the US now.  -Visit AmericanVeteransForUkraine.org and join the fight. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods 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

336. Mayor Yemi Mobolade. The Independent Immigrant Mayor in the Crosshairs of Trump’s Immigration Crackdowns. Trump’s Golden…Dome. Another Attack on Jews. Senator Redneck for Governor? GOP Pressure on Ukraine Increases. Help Honor Baby Bronx Payne. 

  Summer is almost officially here and things are already heating up. From the increasing pressure from Republicans to back Ukraine (a massive win for everyone) to Trump’s new half-baked “Golden Dome” defense system to another horrific antisemitic attack on two Israeli embassy staffers in DC, your fearless and always independent host Paul Rieckhoff has you covered. And as the onslaught of crazy news continues to drop, it’s easy to lose sight of the wins. To forget about the small victories that keep you during the hard times. And so it seemed like the perfect moment to bring back a returning champion. He’s one of the most prominent independents in the country—and his national profile is continuing to grow. Mayor Yemi Mobolade is back and he’s here to check in and let you know how it’s going—and what he thinks about the future of the movement and the challenges and opportunities the times are presenting. It’s a deep look at the state of the independent movement, at what is happening in cities nationwide as Trump continues to expand his reach (especially on immigration), and maybe most importantly, at what is possible for independent political leaders. It’s the kind of conversation you’re only going to get here. Welcome to the beginning of the Summer of 2025. Welcome to Independent Americans, Episode 336. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  Previous appearances by Mayor Mobolade: Episode 228 – June 22, 2023 and Episode 277 – April 28, 2024 -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  –WATCH video of Paul and Yemi’s conversation. –NEW! Watch the video version of the entire podcast here. -Be a helper and help honor the inspiring life of Baby Bronx. -Visit AmericanVeteransForUkraine.org and join the fight. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods 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

334. Brian Bengs. Independent Vet for Senate in South Dakota. Retired LTC and Almost DOGEd Park Ranger. The Toxicity of the Democrat Brand. Running as a (D) vs (I). The New Pope is American!?! Trump Abandons Afghan Allies. And Accepts a $400M Plane Bribe.

  There’s a spirit that’s sweeping across America. A growing desire for change. The system is broken. You know, we know it. And it’s kind of starting to feel like everybody knows it. So when the DOGE axe was going to come down on his group of rangers, he started planning. And even though he was later protected from being fired because he was a veteran, the fear and uncertainty didn’t sit with him. Retired Air Force Colonel Brian Bengs (@BrianBengs) is setting out to bring an independent voice to Washington and to protect the place he calls home. He ran before, and was urged to run as a Democrat. You’ll hear how he regrets that move and how it closes doors in the states where Democrats can’t win. States like South Dakota where he lives. States like Nebraska where Dan Osborn made his run at it. And in red states nationwide. It’s the second conversation in our “2025 Meet The Independent Candidates” series. And it’s one you don’t want to miss. It’s a refreshing dose of independence and inspiration you probably need after all of the other crazy news of the last week. And we cover all of that too. Because if it’s related to National Security and veterans, we’ve got you covered. From a chance for peace in Ukraine to Trump’s absurdly corrupt new plane, the hits keep coming. And your host Paul Rieckhoff is there to cover it all—while taking you on a walk through Lower Manhattan in the rain. Including a stop the September 11th Memorial. No other podcast is like this. There’s a movement sweeping across the heartland of America, and it ain’t red or blue. It’s independent. Welcome to Independent Americans Episode 334. –Be sure to watch and subscribe on our YouTube page here. –Check out Brian Bengs campaign website here. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon. –NEW! Watch the video version of the entire podcast here. -Find us on social media and http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get some very cool IA merch in time for Father’s Day. Ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Social channels: X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

330. Jim Walden. NYC’s Real Independent Candidate for Mayor. Hegseth Is Shook — And His Own Guys are Coming After Him. Chaos at the Pentagon. Trump’s Not Invoking the Insurrection Act—YET. Rubio Sells Out Ukraine. Thank You, Lee Corso. Smell the Flowers.

  The chaos at the Pentagon is getting worse as more and more news stories about Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth continue to pour out. And now, the staffers he fired (that he also hired) for allegedly leaking are coming after him. They’re eating their own–and the mayhem is expanding quickly and overwhelming Hegseth and The Building. What happens next? Will Trump fire him? Who could replace him? Who’s watching our nukes?!?! It’s another wild week in America–and time for another walk and talk. And this week, Paul is back in New York City. And spring has finally sprung in the Big Apple. And the political chaos here continues to grow like tulips in the sunshine.  It’s also home to some of the worst mayors anyone has ever seen. From the epic failure that was DeBlasio to the now disgraced Giuliani, to the criminally corrupt and incompetent Eric Adams, the city that never sleeps also seems to be the city that can never catch a break when it comes to good leadership. And with Trump constantly focused on it, what happens in NYC impacts the world now more than ever.  And this fall, there’s a massive off-cycle election to determine who takes if from here.  And this week, we’ve got a candidate for Mayor that wants to end the chaos. And wants to do it differently: as an independent. But you’ve probably never heard of him until now.  Jim Walden (@JimForNYC) is a former prosecutor for the Eastern District of New York and a first time candidate. He’s prosecuted mob bosses, corrupt governments, institutions and defended Chris Krebs when Trump came after him. He’s a centrist who is offering solutions to problems from the middle. He’s got a bold centrist view and a political affiliation that make his visit to this show timely, important and unique. And he shares his vision for the future, why he’s an independent, what he thinks of Democrat Eric Adams running as an independent, what he’ll do on crime, prices, immigration, Trump and more.  It’s the first conversation for 2025 in our annual “Meet The Independent Candidates” series. And it’s one you don’t want to miss. From open primaries to  the city’s regulation of helicopter traffic after a terrible recent crash, it’s a candid and serious conversation with a candidate that deserves more attention. Because Jim Walden is what a lot of people say they want their politicians to sound like. Reasonable, rational, centrist. But he’s also new and inexperienced. And he’s joining us to face some hard questions from the best independent show in America.  It’s a refreshing dose of independence and inspiration you probably need after all of the other crazy news of the last week. And we cover all of that too. Because if it’s related to National Security and veterans, we’ve got you covered. From Hegseth and his growing crisis of confidence to Rubio abandoning his duty — and Ukraine, the hits keep coming. And your host Paul Rieckhoff has you covered.  Welcome to Independent Americans. Welcome to Episode 330. Be sure to check it out on our YouTube page here. -Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.  –NEW! Watch the video version of the entire podcast here. -Find us on social media and http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get some very cool IA merch in time for Easter, Mother’s Day or Father’s Day.  –Check out Jim Walden’s website. 

307. Exclusive: Dan Osborn. The Breakout Nebraska Independent Shares Lessons Learned. The Axe and the Trees. Hegseth for SecDef is Nuts. We Don’t Need a Third Party Now—We Need No Party. How Kodi Sawin Softened The Ground. Silver Surfing with Stan Lee.

Union organizer, mechanic, first-time candidate and superstar independent Navy veteran, Dan Osborn (@OsobornForSenate) is back and he’s here to let us know what it was like to run the highest profile independent political race since Ross Perot, how he broke through, and what’s next for him and the movement. You met him here first back in May in Episode 280 and then again right before the elections in Episode 303. And although he lost to Republican incumbent Senator Deb Fischer, Dan’s campaign created a template for future races and laid the groundwork to help the movement grow in his home state Nebraska and nationwide. And presents lots of lessons for Republicans and Democrats too.  He’s shocked the political world. But more importantly, he woke people up. Woke people up to the idea that there could be a better way. And we’re always going to take time to listen to and salute anybody that does that. And, of course unfortunately, there are some of the usual suspects and a few new characters that get the opposite of the salute. As Trump’s administration coalesces there are some familiar and unsavory options coming forward. Most notably, Pete Hegseth has emerged as the likely next SECDEF, a move which has your host Paul Rieckhoff a little concerned and a whole lot of pissed off.  Every episode is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and check out their election tracker to follow all of the IVA candidates.  –WATCH video of Paul and Dan’s conversation. –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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

303. Dan Osborn. The Surging Independent Vet for Senate in Nebraska Returns. Gen Milley Calls Trump a Fascist. Jimmy McCain Endorses Harris. North Korean Troops in Ukraine. Steven Seagal Loves Putin. Helpers Respond To Hurricanes. Playoff Baseball Rocks.

Welcome back to our groundbreaking “Meet The 2024 Independent Candidates” series—highlighting independent candidates of all kinds, for all levels of office, from all across America. In our last episode we heard from Shelane Etchison, a super badass veteran running for Congress in North Carolina. This episode we have another inspiring veteran. And he’s one of the hottest names in American politics today. You met him here first back in May in Episode 280. And it took the rest of the country a couple of months to catch up to the story, but he is finally now making national headlines. He’s union organizer, mechanic, first-time candidate and independent Navy veteran, Dan Osborn (@OsobornForSenate). He’s running for Senate in Nebraska facing off against Senator Deb Fischer, a highly-partisan Republican incumbent who refuses to even debate Dan.  He’s shocking the political world by taking the lead in the race according to multiple recent polls. America is noticing. Voters are noticing. And his Republican opponent is definitely noticing. And you’ll hear from Dan unfiltered and uncensored from his home garage studio. You’ll hear how he plans to win, how he feels about Fisher refusing to debate him, what kind of car he’s working on in his garage with his son and how he feels about Army vs Navy in football! He’s redefining independents for the world–and showing that we can win.  And the voters of Nebraska aren’t alone in supporting independents. More and more people are registering as independents. In New York, voters are registering as independents in record numbers. You’ll learn more. And you’ll also hear Paul dig into American airstrikes you likely missed, new reasons to dislike Jill Stein AND action star Steven Seagal. Who is apparently buddies with Putin. Yes, really.  And your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) digs into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. From North Korean involvement in the war in Ukraine to the US military bombing ISIS in Syria, Independent Americans covers the national and global security news you can’t afford to miss. Because on Independent Americans, we’re focused on not just what’s happening now, but also on what’s happening next. Every episode is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  –WATCH video of Paul and Dan’s conversation. –Listen to Dan Osborn’s past appearance on Episode 280. -Learn more about Dan Osborn and his race on his campaign website.  -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America.  –Support Team Rubicon’s urgent work to respond to Hurricanes Helene and Milton.  –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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

302. Shelane Etchison. Independent Vet Making History in North Carolina. Hurricane Milton is Our October Surprise. Dan Osborn Surging in Nebraska. 10/7: One Year Later. Mayor Adams is Killing the Democrats’ Brand. Dolly Steps Up. MLB Playoffs are Awesome.

Welcome back to our groundbreaking “Meet The 2024 Independent Candidates” series—highlighting independent candidates of all kinds, for all levels of office, from all across America. This week, we’re bringing back a powerhouse and fan favorite, Shelane Etchison (@ShelaneEtchison). She’s running for Congress in North Carolina’s 9th District while pregnant and at the same time dealing with the same devastation the rest of her state is experiencing in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. But she’s ready. As a combat veteran that used to jump out of planes into battlefields for a living, she’s ready. And she’s bringing the grit and independent spirit that drives this show and the growing independent movement to the campaign and making history while doing it becoming North Carolina’s first independent candidate to qualify for a federal race. It’s a massive accomplishment and it’s thanks to supporters like you, the real independent Americans.  If you’re interested in independent politics—or American politics in general—this is a can’t miss. If you’re an independent, you’ve found your home. And an inspiring one at that.  And your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) goes deep on all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. From the Presidential race to Jill Stein’s propensity for lying, he’s hitting it all — hard. And reflecting on the last year and what the anniversary of 10/7 means here and in Israel. Plus updates on Mayor Disaster’s growing scandal in NYC, the latest from Ukraine, and the thwarted ISIS election day attack the FBI announced yesterday that seems to have been missed by most (all?) of the mainstream media. And that’s why every episode of Independent Americans 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 delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. This is your home for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.  -Learn more about Shelane Etchison and her race on her campaign website.  –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 Shelane’s conversation. –Check out the first time Shelane joined us back in May for Episode 279.  –Hear Dorin Cohen’s harrowing story of her October 7th experience. –Paul’s column from 10/7 on what Israel can learn from our mistakes after 9/11. –Support Team Rubicon’s vital hurricane response efforts.  -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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

301. Travis Endicott. Independent Vet For Mayor of Ridgecrest, Ca. Walz and Vance Clash. #MayorDisaster Indicted. Trump’s Asinine TBI Denial. Israel Gets Nasrallah—and War with Iran. McChrystal Endorses Harris. Trump Meets Zelensky & Embarrasses America.

The Democrats and Republicans are attacking each other on a daily basis. The presidential race is at a fever pitch. And 82% of all new voter registrations are independents. And as both sides try to court the undecideds and pander to their bases, we’ve been busy introducing you to America’s next generation of leaders. Independent leaders that stand on their own, in service of their communities. America, meet Travis Endicott, independent veteran candidate for Mayor of Ridgecrest, California. Travis is a brilliant Army vet with multiple degrees, a PhD and two Masters. He works at a top secret lab in the kind of job you can’t really talk about. But the stuff he works on gets confused for alien spaceships—and we think that sounds really, really cool. But he also is a man that cares. And when he heard about a new surveillance system the local police was deploying in his town, he decided to stand up and do something about it. And run for Mayor. It’s the kind of drive we love to see and the kind of candidate we love to stand behind.  And this episode is packed with all of the latest headlines. Your host Paul Rieckhoff breaks down all of the latest news from Ukraine, the Iranian attacks on Israel, the VP debate, Trump’s asinine comments about wounded troops, NYC Mayor Eric Adams and more. The weather might be cooling down, but the world is heating up. And while the cable stations are busy fighting over what happened, we’re focused on what’s next. Every episode of Independent Americans is independent light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 51% of Americans that now call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and vets issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics and inspiration.  -Get extra content, connect with guests, events, merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.  -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Learn more and support Travis Endicott’s campaign here.  -Watch Paul and Travis’ conversation on YouTube here.  -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America’s new candidate endorsements.  -Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. -Hear other Righteous pods 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 new independent and veteran-owned media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices