Category: Meet the Independents

For the last four and a half years we’ve brought you some of the most consequential independent voices in America. Celebrities, politicians, athletes. We’ve covered the whole gamut. And it’s all built up to our 2024 Meet The Independent Candidates Series. It’s the only place in media spotlighting independent veteran candidates from around the country at all levels. It’s been critical to our mission and to the independent movement.  Highlighting these independents exposes them to a massive audience of like minded independent Americans. And we are honored to be that unique platform.  And the candidate in this episode is one that represents the movement, the independent spirit and his community as well as anyone we’ve met. He’s Nick Batter, independent army veteran and candidate for Nebraska’s State Legislature. He’s an inspiring leader we know you’re going to want to hear more from. It’s the latest in our ongoing and groundbreaking “Meet the Independent Candidates” series and you can only get it here.  And your host Paul Rieckhoff digs in deeper to why Nebraska has become THE epicenter of the independent movement, punctuated by the massive announcement of a new poll showing Dan Osborn pulling ahead of Deb Fischer in his Nebraska Senate race we profiled in Episode 280. It’s more momentum and more proof that the movement is growing. And on top of that there’s been a massive spike in independent registrations in Pennsylvania this year. And that means that the 2024 Presidential election could rest in the hands of people like you. Independent Americans.  Rieckhoff also hits on Zelensky’s big trip to the US, a national security issue you probably haven’t heard about and why Pennsylvania is seeing a unique surge in voters registering as independents.  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 Nick Batter’s campaign here.  –Watch Paul and Nick’s conversation on YouTube here.  -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America’s new candidate endorsements.  –Take part/support the inspiring Tunnels to Towers run this weekend (9/29). -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

It’s 2024 and for some in politics, nothing is sacred. Not Arlington. Not 9/11. Not America. Nothing. And those people have our enemies celebrating. But not Independent Americans. And not on this show. This show is a celebration of the people who put country over party. The people who choose the right way over the easy way. And this show is a celebration of America and the American people. And so when RFK Jr and Laura Loomer spread absurd and idiotic conspiracy theories about 9/11 on 9/11, you better believe we’re going to call them out on it. Meanwhile, at the same time they were out trying to cast doubt on the bravery of our heroes, we were gathered. Gathered in the historic site where George Washington declared he would not be a king to his men before returning home. Gathered to make the official introduction of the nine Independent Veterans of America endorsed independent veteran candidates from all across the country. From local counties in South Dakota to the US Senate in Washington. An Inspiring and dynamic group of independent veterans that are working to shape a better future for us all. Be like them. Work to build the future, not tear it down. Leaders like Eric Faulkner, a former Navy Master Chief and a refreshing dose of positivity that wants to be a voice for the voiceless and promote positive change. His campaign for City Council in Temecula, California is a mission to help build a stronger community while setting a strong example that inspires others. He’s a strong independent who wants to build unity over division while representing diverse views, building flexibility in governance, and being an advocate for change. He’s an inspiring leader we think you’re going to want to hear more from. It’s the latest in our ongoing and groundbreaking “Meet the Independent Candidates” series.  And Paul’s got a new segment! It’s called, “While most Americans didn’t notice”. And you gonna wanna notice it! And, his thoughts on Jill Stein, Tommy Tuberville and more.  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 Eric Faulkner’s campaign here.  -Watch the Independent Veterans of America 9/11 Celebration of Service 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

Welcome back, America. Welcome back to the hottest summer on record. Literally and figuratively. The planet is on fire, our politics are on fire and we’re only getting started. And because of that reason, we’re going to do something we haven’t done since we started Righteous Media and all of the offshoot projects we’ve created along the way. We’re going to take a break. We’re going to shut it down for one week so we can recharge our batteries, clear our heads, and prepare ourselves for the shitshow that will be this fall. But before we take a break, we’ve got one more pod to help you get through the dog days of summer.  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. So far in the series we’ve met Dan Osborn, Shelane Etchison, Jared Young, Marcus Carter, Kodi Sawin and Tyrell Hicks. They all represent the true independent spirit. And this episode we’re bringing you a remix. The best of the Meet the Independent Candidates Series. 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.  -If you’re an Independent VETERAN especially, check out Independent Veterans of America.  -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

Monday morning, in advance of the NATO Summit in Washington DC, Russian missiles ferociously tore through a children’s cancer hospital in Kyiv-sending a brutal reminder to the world. Russia is not sparing anyone. Putin is proceeding to murder innocent children while the world watches. This is why veterans recently started American Veterans for Ukraine and it’s why so many other people have felt the call to serve. And it’s why we’re not going to look away on this show. We’re not going to stop covering this terrible conflict, until Ukraine achieves victory. Tim Mak (@timkmak) is a leader dedicated to that victory. Tim is founder and editor of The Counteroffensive. Follow them now. He’s an independent, investigative journalist with a background in politics, national security, and emergency medicine. He was there in Kyiv as the attacks unfolded. He rushed to the hospital to report on the carnage. And he joins us between power outages from Ukraine now. After this week’s deadly attack, he’s the perfect independent voice to hear from. And our host Paul Rieckhoff tears into the collapse of support for Joe Biden, why the most recent politicians to abandon Biden are so important, the squishiness from the White House on Ukraine, why Jim Mattis is back in the news, why American Generals have so often been President, JFK Jr’s latest conspiracy theory pushing (and snake catching!), why LeBron is what American politics should be, and why the Olympics are so important to America (and Americans) right now.  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.  Previous Appearances: Episode 270 – March 7, 2024 Episode 223 – May 18, 2023 -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 Tim’s full conversation. -Check #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.  -Join the fight at American Veterans for Ukraine.  -If you’re an Independent VETERAN especially, check out Independent Veterans of America.  -Check out the VA website piece about all the American presidents who’ve been veterans that Paul talked about.  -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

Summer is here. And it’s getting hot. In America, around the world, and in our politics. And we’re not afraid of some heat. From the Trump verdict to Menendez and Manchin claiming independence to poop balloons. Yes, poop balloons. It’s already a wild summer.  And it’s also a summer of independents. So 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 in the series we met Kodi Sawin, an independent powerhouse from Texas. She dropped us a line to let us know that right after she was on the show she passed her verified signature count and is on track to submit her application and petition on or before June 10. We’re tracking on her race—and every single one of the candidates we’ve be profiling in the series. And speaking of candidates… America, meet Marcus Carter (@MarcusCarter4FL). He’s running for Congress in Florida’s 9th District and is up against incumbent Democrat Darren Soto. And a Republican to be decided after an August primary. They’re long odds to face, but Marcus will make his case why he thinks he’s the best option for voters in his district and he’s got the kind of independent spirit we want to highlight.  If you’re interested in independent politics—or American politics in general—this is a rare inside look at politics at the local level. If you’re an independent, you’ve found your home. And an inspiring one at that.  Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) rips into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. And he’s digging into the aftershocks of the Trump guilty verdict and how it might impact the race, Eric Adams failing again and again, Zelensky and Ukraine finally getting the go ahead to hit targets of military importance inside Russia and poop balloon attacks. That’s right, poop balloons. Because nothing makes more sense in 2024 than weaponized balloons carrying poop. Keep your head on a swivel, people! And hit that download button now.  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 49% 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 Marcus Carter 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 Marcus’ conversation. -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

This episode we’re headed down south to Texas. America, meet Kodi Sawin (@KodiforTexas). She’s running for the Texas House of Representatives in the 19th district and is up against some stiff competition. But her common sense, no nonsense approach might just have what it takes to win as an independent in deep red (but always independent) Texas. 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 third episode in the series we met Dan Osborn, an independent VETERAN candidate.  Kodi has served for years as the founder of the Sawin Group, specializing in public and government affairs for infrastructure and natural resource projects. She has been recognized for her knowledge and expertise in water issues in Texas and has worked with utilities, landowners, and non-profits to help fix the problems her community faces. It’s a great look at the local level and the kind of race the national media never takes the time to look at, but the reality is that it’s the kind of race that will make the most impact on the lives of the voters and the rest of the people that live in Sawin’s district. If you’re interested in independent politics—or American politics in general—this is a rare inside look at politics at the local level. If you’re an independent, you’ve found your home. And an inspiring one at that.  Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) rips into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. And he’s digging into the announcement of the two Biden/Trump Presidential debates, the latest primary result warning signs, the news out of Ukraine, and why a Fight Club scene is a good reflection of how millions of Americans feel this election year.   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 49% 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 Kodi Sawin 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 Kodi’s conversation. -Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.  -Celebrate some bipartisan helpers as IAVA Salutes Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Sen. John Boozman and Jake Tapper in Washington DC. -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

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 second episode in the series we met Shelane Etchison, our first independent VETERAN candidate.  This episode we have another veteran. America, meet inspiring union organizer and INDEPENDENT Navy veteran, Dan Osborn (@OsobornForSenate). He’s running for Senate in Nebraska facing off against Senator Deb Fischer, a Republican incumbent in office since 2013. Dan’s got a tough battle ahead of him, but he’s also made some impacts worth noting and could be a sign of positive momentum for independents headed into the summer. 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. On December 21, about 1,400 Kellogg workers approved a collective bargaining agreement, ending the strike, which had lasted 77 days. And now he wants to take the lessons he learned and bring them to the rest of the country. It’s a populist message, and he’s not beholden to any specific ideology. He wants to take voters from the left, right and center. Time will tell if it’s a winning strategy, but one thing is for sure—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) rips into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. And, he tears into damage left behind in the wake of more college campus protests, a breakdown on why RFK is the wrong choice for independents. It’s another important episode that is a roadmap to 2024. 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 49% 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 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. -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

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 second episode in the series, following independent Jared Young running for Senate in Missouri, we have our first independent VETERAN candidate.  Meet inspiring combat veteran, Shelane Etchison (@ShelaneEtchison). She’s running for Congress in North Carolina’s 9th District against a career politician who’s never served in uniform and likes to vote against veterans benefits named Richard Hudson. Shelane is an independent and Army Special Operations combat veteran that used to jump out of planes into battlefields for a living. She’s got a tough race ahead of her against an entrenched, incumbent, extreme GOP Rep who has raised millions. But as Shelane says, she’s not afraid to do bold things and lead. She’s got the grit and independent spirit that drives this show and the growing independent movement.  You’ll hear about her harrowing time in the military, why she is running for Congress, why she thinks she can overcome the odds and beat an incumbent in a deeply red district, how she defines independent, and whether or not she’ll endorse RFK Jr, Trump or Biden.  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) rips into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. And, he tears into the college campus protests spreading across America, RFK Jr’s latest “big” announcement and why Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson might have a career in politics when he’s done with basketball.  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 49% 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 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 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

Welcome to the first installment of our groundbreaking “Meet The 2024 Independent Candidates” series—highlighting independent candidates of all kinds, for all levels of office, from all across America.  America, meet Jared Young (@VoteJaredYoung). Jared is the independent candidate for Senate from Missouri running against Republican incumbent Senator Josh Hawley and underperforming Democrat Lucas Kunce. It’s a monumental task but he’s focused and he’s organized. He’s got a plan and maybe even a little momentum. It’s a fascinating look behind the scenes of a campaign on the move and a great way to kick-off the series. Hear why he is running, why he thinks he can overcome the odds and maybe most importantly, how he defines independent and what it means to him. 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. Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) rips into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. And hits Speaker of the House Johnson pushing the big Ukraine funding bill through Congress, Trump’s trial, and some national and global security headlines you won’t don’t get from most other news shows… yet. 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 49% 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 Jared Young 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 Jared’s conversation. -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’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The spring offensive is here. The spring offensive of news, chaos, war and misinformation. The spring offensive, attacking democracy foreign and domestic. A spring offensive before the summer storm. A storm of the century.  It’s a storm that’s sweeping across Ukraine. It’s sweeping across America. It’s sweeping across the globe. And despite the fear and the chaos and the turmoil, every once in a while there’s a glimmer of hope. A light on the horizon that you can aim for and keep going. For independents, one of our brightest lights is the independent Mayor of Colorado Springs, Yemi Mobolade (@MayorofCOS). He’s back after appearing in Episode 228 – June 22, 2023 to check in and let us all know how things are going after his first year in office. He’s a true success story that shows the power of the independent movement—and this inspiring conversation is an appetizer for next week’s first installment of our groundbreaking “Meet The 2024 Independent Candidates” series—highlighting independent candidates of all kinds, for all levels of office, from all across America. If you’re interested in independent politics—or American politics in general—this is a can’t miss. Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) rips into all of it in this all new episode of Independent Americans. And hits on Trump’s first week on trial, the big Ukraine funding bill stalled in Congress, Zelensky’s latest plea for help, Cornel West’s pick for VP, and why tee ball is what life should be like in America.  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 49% 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.  –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 Yemi’s conversation. -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’s next great independent media company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices