Tag: Veterans

As America scrambles to face the unprecedented chaos of coronavirus and the upheaval of the 2020 election, this episode features a riveting conversation with one of the most impressive leaders of our time. Chris Fussell (@FussellChris) is a man who knows chaos–and helps guide you through it with powerful insights and lessons-learned. Steeled by leadership roles in the most selective Special Operations units in the military, Chris is a leader that will teach you how to thrive in chaos. He led in the most elite unit in the military: the Naval Special Warfare Development Group and Navy SEAL Teams 2 and 8–on some of the most critical missions of our generation. After 16 years at the tip of spear for America’s most urgent and complex national security challenges and serving as Aide-de-Camp to General Stanley McChrystal as he commanded the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) in Iraq, Chris teaches leadership at Yale University, speaks to packed audiences, and coaches top leaders and companies worldwide. He’s the author of the bestsellers, Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World and One Mission: How Leaders Build a Team of Teams and now serves as President of McChrystal Group–an elite advisory services, management consulting, and leadership development firm in Washington, DC.  A former wrestler and with a degree in philosophy, Chris is a true warrior philosopher of the highest regard. He has a Master of Arts in Irregular Warfare from the Naval Postgraduate School, and received the Pat Tillman Award for highest peer-rated Special Operations Officer. His thesis focused on the interagency collaboration and intelligence sharing processes that drove effective, cross-silo collaboration during the peak of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Chris is also a Senior Fellow for National Security at New America, a non-partisan think tank dedicated to understanding the next generation of challenges facing the US. He is also a dedicated husband and father of two, and actively involved in several non-profits dedicated to empowering veterans. Chris serves on the Board of Directors for the Navy SEAL Foundation and is a lifetime member to the Council on Foreign Relations. Host, Iraq veteran and activist Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has known Chris for over a decade, and takes us through a conversational master class on how to lead in adversity. Whether you’re leading a Fortune 100 Company, a small business, a classroom of students, or your own family, this indispensable episode will equip you with tools to thrive in the face of coronavirus–or any challenge you might face. We examine whether a military draft is needed, analyze the leadership skills of the remaining Presidential candidates, go behind the scenes of life as an elite Navy SEAL, and examine the ever-expanding role of Special Operations forces in modern America.  Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) is a political sensation, now topping polls in Iowa and New Hampshire. If elected in 2020, the Democrat will be the youngest President in American history and the first war veteran since George Bush Sr. Before a live audience, [26:19] Mayor Buttigieg sits down for one of his most candid, most hard-hitting and most extended public conversations yet, with combat veteran, author and renowned activist Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff). The second of the candidates in our Presidential candidates series (Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard join us in Episode 30), this groundbreaking episode of Angry Americans (@AngryAmericans) will reveal sides of Mayor Buttigieg you’ve never heard before.  Mayor Pete shares his favorite drink, an immediate reaction to the shooting in Jersey City and the “Afghanistan Papers”, how his military experience shapes his view on firearms, thoughts on potentially being the first war veteran to serve as president since George Bush Sr, his funny Navy recruiter story, and whether or not he and his husband Chasten plan to have children. And he definitively states a timeline for when he would end the war in Afghanistan.  [00:45] Rieckhoff kicks-off the show by ripping through the most urgent and important headlines you need to know about in American and global news, politics and culture. From the violent shooting in Jersey City, NJ, to multiple shootings on military bases, to the release of the Afghanistan Papers, to Greta Thornberg being named Time’s Person of the Year.  [1:25:40] Detective Joseph Seals was tragically killed in Jersey City this week. You can be a helper and donate to support his five children here. Don’t just be active. Be active.  This episode is made possible thanks to support from Oscar Mike–an innovative Veteran owned and American-Made lifestyle apparel brand. Oscar Mike creates awesome sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats and even performance gear for both men and women. High quality, affordable and made by American hands, be sure to head over to Angry Americans merch page and get yours today. If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But there are good reasons to be happy and inspired too. Download the newest Angry Americans podcast for free here. Then, join the Angry Americans community to a first shot at upcoming event tickets and free behind-the-scenes video of recent guests including Chef Tom Collichio, Tulsi Gabbard, Chris Cuomo, Ai Jen Poo, Rachel Maddow, Samantha Bee, Bradley Whitford, Soledad O’Brien and more. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide. It’s changing the podcasting landscape. And powered by Righteous Media. Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 2005 in Iraq, the assault vehicle Marine Corporal Aaron Mankin [56:40] was riding in was hit by a devastating improvised explosive device. Four Marines died and eleven others were injured. Aaron survived, but was seriously wounded when his body caught on fire in the blast. He suffered intense burns on over 25 percent of his body. His ears, nose and mouth were essentially gone, he lost two fingers on his right hand and he sustained serious damage to his throat and lungs. You won’t be able to see his scars. But you’ll hear them. Aaron has experienced the unimaginable. But he has endured the pain. He has harnessed the pain. And he has emerged stronger at the broken places. Aaron is now a renowned spokesperson for millions of veterans, a patriot and a teacher. He is a true hero—and funny as hell. This is the single most compelling Angry Americans conversation yet. And a perfect pre-Thanksgiving appetizer of heart-warming content. It’ll leave you thankful, motivated and forever changed. And it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends as the holidays approach. Host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is a combat veteran, author and renowned activist who has recently appeared on CNN, MSNBC, Pod Save America and more. He guides a candid conversation with Aaron–and takes Angry Americans (@AngryAmericans) entertainingly through the latest headlines you need to know about. From the explosion of impeachment hearings, to attacks on Colonel Alexander Vindman, to the latest Democratic debate, to President Trump pardoning war criminals, to the new Ford Mustang, Rieckhoff breaks down the week’s news with a uniquely independent and edgy style. And during this Veterans Month, he continues a focus on national security and military and veterans issues. This episode is supported by Fort Hamilton Whiskey. A finely crafted American rye whiskey born in Brooklyn, NY, Fort Hamilton is made purely from rye, malted barley, yeast and no nonsense. Celebrating Alexander Hamilton’s Hearts of Oak Militia and the base that bears his name, this patriotic whiskey honors American bravery and and celebrates the fighting spirit of Angry Americans. Fort Hamilton Whiskey is The Spirit of Revolution. And some damn good whiskey.  If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But there are also good reasons to be happy and inspired. Download the new Angry Americans podcast for free here now. Then, join the Angry Americans newsletter to get free behind-the-scenes video of recent guests including Chris Cuomo, Tulsi Gabbard, Scott Campbell, Ai Jen Poo, Samantha Bee, Bob Woodruff, OAR’s Marc Roberg, Rachel Maddow, Chef Tom Collichio, Ron Perlman and more. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide. It’s changing the podcasting landscape. And powered by Righteous Media. Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Bellavia @DavidBellavia2 [54:17] is the sole living Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient to have served in the Iraq War. One fateful day in Iraq would forever change history. It also happened to be his birthday and the day before Veterans Day. On November 10, 2004, while serving as a squad leader in support of Operation Phantom Fury in Fallujah, David experienced brutal house-to-house and hand-to-hand combat that few can imagine. David demonstrated an exceptional level of valor that would have him recognized with America’s single highest award for heroism by President Trump in a ceremony earlier this summer at the White House. His memoir, House to House: An Epic Memoir of War was chosen as one of the top five best Iraq War memoirs by journalist Thomas Ricks and has been signed to become a major motion picture. Bellavia is a hero, a leader, a father, an author and a tireless advocate for his country, his state, and the Army. And his story is now the stuff of legend. He’ll share it in raw, candid detail. He’ll also share what it’s like to shoulder the weight of the Medal of Honor under the bright lights of a national stage.  David has also been a combatant in the arena of American politics. He is a two-time Republican candidate for Congress, co-founder of the conservative political action group “Vets for Freedom”, host of a conservative radio talk show in Buffalo and a political ally of President Trump. At a recent White House event, Trump introduced Bellavia, and said “I heard you maybe are gonna be running for office, but someday I know, huh?” Trump continued, “I’ll tell ya, boy I’ll tell ya what, he has my vote. We’ll have a brave politician for a change, right?” Our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has known–and tangled with–Dave on issues for over a decade. They’ve disagreed on the Iraq war, foreign policy and domestic issues. But despite their differences, they have remained friends and share a mutual respect and a deep passion for driving support to our military and veterans community. It’s a no-bullshit, timely and feisty conversation between two influential leaders. Paul is a combat veteran, author and renowned activist who has recently appeared on CNN, MSNBC, Pod Save America and more. He explains why he boycotted the recent Veterans Day Parade in NYC and takes Angry Americans (@AngryAmericans) entertainingly through the latest headlines you need to know about. From the start of impeachment hearings, to a wild week of football, to protests and division at the Veterans Day Parade in New York, to the latest 2020 Presidential drama, Rieckhoff breaks down the issues that are most important with a uniquely independent, inspiring and edgy style. Always with a special focus on national security and military and veterans affairs–and especially as conflict continues in Syria and Iraq during this Veterans Month. This pod is possible thanks to support from Fort Hamilton Whiskey— A finely crafted American Rye whiskey born in Brooklyn, NY. Fort Hamilton is made purely from rye, malted barley, yeast and no nonsense. Celebrating revolutionary founding Father Alexander Hamilton’s Hearts of Oak Militia, they honor American bravery and you can too. Fort Hamilton Whiskey, join us in The Spirit of Revolution. If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But there are also good reasons to be happy and inspired. Download the new Angry Americans podcast for free here now. Then, join the Angry Americans newsletter to get free behind-the-scenes video of recent guests including Samantha Bee, Bob Woodruff, OAR’s Marc Roberge, Rachel Maddow, JT Lewis, Chef Tom Collichio, Tulsi Gabbard and more. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide. It’s changing the podcasting landscape. And powered by Righteous Media. Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bob Woodruff (@BobWoodruff) is a true American hero. A walking miracle. And one of the greatest advocates in America for troops and veterans. In 2006, Bob was reporting for ABC News from the front lines of Iraq when the vehicle he was riding in was hit by a roadside bomb. Woodruff sustained massive shrapnel wounds to his head and body. He was evacuated and kept in a medically induced coma for 36 days. Miraculously, Bob recovered. Slowly, steadily, bravely. And alongside his amazing wife, Lee, Bob has gone on to inspire a nation and dedicate himself to helping veterans. He founded a nonprofit, The Bob Woodruff Foundation (@Stand4Heroes), to help post-9/11 injured service members, veterans, and their families that has raised tens of millions of dollars and supported hundreds of organizations nationwide. He’s galvanized corporations, comedians and superstars from Bruce Springsteed to Jon Stewart to Sheryl Crow. And he continues to report on important stories from around the world for Good Morning America, ABC World News and ESPN’s E60. Bob is a tireless reporter, a dedicated husband, and father of four children. [19:18] Angry Americans (@AngryAmericans) highlights the helpers. And especially as Veterans Day approaches, there are few that are greater helpers than Bob Woodruff. After hearing this pod, you will be inspired.   When Bob returned to reporting for ABC in 2007, his very first interview was with our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff). Paul and Bob have reminded friends for the last 12 years, and worked to drive national attention and support to the plight of our veterans. It’s a fascinating and timely conversation between two big-hearted leaders, fathers and friends.  Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is a renowned veterans activist who also takes you quickly through the latest headlines you need to know. From Trump’s controversial decision to attend the Veterans Day Parade in New York, to the impeachment hearings, to UFC 224, to the latest 2020 Presidential polling out of Iowa, Rieckhoff breaks down the news headlines that are important and inspiring with his uniquely edgy and independent style. Always with a special focus on national security and military and veterans affairs.  This episode is possible thanks to support from Oscar Mike–an innovative Veteran owned and American-Made lifestyle apparel brand. Oscar Mike creates awesome clothes that are also affordable. Sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats–even yoga gear–for men and women.  If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But there are also good reasons to be happy and inspired. Download the new Angry Americans podcast for free here now. Then, join the Angry Americans newsletter to get free behind-the-scenes video of recent guests including Tulsi Gabbard, Samantha Bee, Marc Roberge, Chris Cuomo, Chef Tom Collichio and more. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide. It’s changing the podcasting landscape. And powered by Righteous Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s it like to be the reporter who broke the story that US Special Forces had killed ISIS leader Abū Bakr al-Baghdadi? How does it feel to be the first to know the identify of American troops killed in action before the President does? What’s it like to go from serving in the US military to serving as a journalist and being called the “enemy of the people” by your Commander-in-Chief? For this Halloween episode, Newsweek Investigative Reporter, James LaPorta (@JimLaPorta) sat down exclusively with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) [42:00] to share it all in this fascinating and timely new episode. Angry Americans take you through the headlines–and also beneath them to reveal the harrowing and stressful world of national defense journalism in the age of Trump. LaPorta was the first journalist to break the story that captivated the world. And soon after, he broke the news that the Special Forces dog on the raid–whose picture was tweeted by President Trump–has a name. LaPorta has gone from the front lines as a Marine in combat to the front lines as a journalist covering the Trump White House. He’s reported on some of the most important national security stories of 2019: troop movements on the Mexican border, the violence in Afghanistan, the growing veteran suicide problem at home, the revolving door for Secretary of Defense–he’s covered all of it. A Marine veteran who is deeply respected in the military and defense community for his integrity and effectiveness, LaPorta gives you an inside look at modern journalism with the highest stakes possible. He’s also takes you inside Hollywood in his role as a Military Advisor to the massively popular NBC show, This Is Us. Host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is a renowned activist, Army veteran, author and leads a candid and enlightening conversation with LaPorta–and takes Angry Americans (@AngryAmericans) into the latest headlines you need to know about. From the wildfires in California, to massive protests in Chile, to AOC vs Mark Zuckerberg, to another GOP walkout in Washington, Rieckhoff quickly takes you through news headlines that are more important and truly inspiring with his uniquely edgy and independent style.  If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But there are also good reasons to be happy and inspired. Download the new Angry Americans podcast for free here now. Then, join the Angry Americans newsletter to get free, exclusive content: www.AngryAmericans.us. And go behind-the-scenes for video of this interview and recent guests including Tulsi Gabbard, Samantha Bee, Bradley Whitford, Rachel Maddow, Chef Tom Collichio and many more. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide. It’s changing the podcasting landscape. And it’s powered by Righteous Media. Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inspirational leader or political spoiler? Super Hero or Bond villain? How you see controversial Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) depends on where you sit. Fresh off a headline-grabbing clash with Hillary Clinton, Gabbard sits down with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) for a no-holds barred, extensive and uniquely candid conversation. [28:50] Gabbard is the first female combat veteran in history to run for President. She breaks it down with fellow combat veteran Rieckhoff for a focus on the national security, and veterans issues that are often left off the debate stage. The dynamic and spirited conversation is an insight into the battle to defeat Trump, the battle to defeat American’s enemies, the battle for the future of the Democratic party, and the battle to define the future of American politics. And this news-making episode of Angry Americans gets into all of it–along with why Gabbard doesn’t drink alcohol, what she really thinks of Vladamire Putin, Bashar al-Assad, Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan—and what she gave up as a teenager to buy her very first car.  As a candidate for President, Tulsi Gabbard has vehemently opposed what she calls “regime change wars”. But she’s still an officer serving in the Hawaii National Guard. So if she was called up to active duty to fight in one, would she go? If elected President, would she again meet with Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad? Will she leave the Democratic party and run as an independent? Find out now.  Host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) leads a fascinating conversation with Gabbard–and takes Angry Americans (@AngryAmericans) into the latest headlines you need to know about. From the devolving situation in Syria, to Secretary of Defense Esper’s struggles in the media, to Shaquile O’Neal’s good deed, Rieckhoff quickly takes you through news headlines that are important and inspiring. If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But there are also good reasons to be happy and inspired. Download the new Angry Americans podcast for free here now and get it all. And join the Angry Americans newsletter for free, exclusive weekly content at www.AngryAmericans.us. And go behind-the-scenes for video of the interview with Tulsi Gabbard and other recent guests including Samantha Bee, Bradley Whitford, Chris Cuomo, Wes Moore and Scott Campbell. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide. It’s changing the podcasting landscape. And it’s powered by Righteous Media. Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

18 years later, America is still processing 9/11. And 9/11 First Responder Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) digs into all of it. From Trump’s plans to meet with the Taliban at Camp David to the Department of Defense making cuts to pay for the wall, to how to talk to your kids about 9/11. It’s a time that should be about unity. And Angry Americans is here to unite all Americans around the 4 I’s: integrity, information, inspiration and impact. The war in Afghanistan is now the longest war in US history. 18 years old. With no end in sight. Our war in Afghanistan is a teenager. It’s old enough to drive. It’s old enough to make its own choices. It’s old enough to get married to someone we don’t like. If Mitch McConnell has his way, it’s not old enough to use tobacco products. It’s NOT old enough to drink–which I think is bullshit. But regardless, the war in Afghanistan is almost 18 now. It’s old enough to legally do most things as an adult. And, now, it’s old enough to enlist. If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. And this important episode of Angry Americans will again reveal where attention must be paid most. Download the new Angry Americans podcast for free now. It’s full of integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Then, go behind-the-scenes of the show with video of host Paul Rieckhoff interviewing recent guests including Rachel Maddow, Ron Perlman, Ai Jen Poo and Ron Perlman at AngryAmericans.us. This powerful new episode is supported by Mizzen+Main (@MizzenAndMain). Mizzen+Main is an American company from Texas that makes the most comfortable dress shirts on Earth. Made from performance fabrics, these shirts are changing the game. Visit Mizzen+Main’s website at www.Comfortable.AF and use the code ANGRYAMERICANS at check-out to get $10 off an awesome new dress shirt now.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This bold new episode of Angry Americans is feeling the need. The neeeeed for speeeeed. As the trailer for the new Top Gun: Maverick movie went viral nationwide, our guest for this episode has felt that need for speed. And the need for service. She was the first female Marine Corps pilot in history to fly the F/A-18 on a combat mission. Marine Fighter Pilot Amy McGrath (@AmyMcGrathKY) is running in the most-watched 2020 Senate race in America. After flying 89 combat missions against al Qaeda and the Taliban, the trailblazing combat veteran, former Naval Academy professor and mother of three just announced she’s running for the Senate in Kentucky versus the exceptionally unpopular Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. It’s the biggest challenge of her life–and on the biggest political stage in America. McGrath sits down with fellow combat veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) for an exclusive and extensive discussion about her race vs McConnell, breaking barriers in the Marine Corps, being in the cockpit of an F-18 on 9/11 tasked with defending all of Los Angeles, and how she got her unique and unforgettable call-sign. Paul also digs into the most urgent news stories in America: the Mueller testimony, the historic victory for 9/11 First Responders, Trump’s threats to drop a nuke on Afghanistan, the expanding measles threat–and lots more fun stuff. So, yes, as with every episode, there will be some whiskey. Because we need it. This pod is always an examination of the great American experiment, a distress call and a rally cry. And if you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But we promise you’ll leave this episode with a sense of the 4 I’s that we bring in every motivating installment of Angry Americans: integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Renowned activist Paul Rieckhoff always recommends ways to turn your righteous anger into positive action. And unites an audience that cares and is committed to making a difference in America. This compelling episode of Angry Americans is supported by our awesome friends at Mizzen+Main (@MizzenAndMain). Mizzen+Main is an innovative American company headquartered in Texas that makes dress shirts for men that are actually comfortable. Head on over to Mizzen+Main’s website at www.Comfortable.AF Yes, that’s really their website, Use code ANGRYAMERICANS at check-out to get $10 off a dress shirt now. Mizzen and Main. It’s never felt better to look your best. Join the movement. Download the pod now. And see behind-the-scenes videos with guests Amy McGrath, Chef Tom Colicchio, Sons of Anarchy’s Ron Perlman, Sarah Jessica Parker and more at AngryAmericans.us. If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide and is powered by Righteous Media.  Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

America is right now on the edge of war with Iran. And Angry Americans breaks down what you need to know. What would American military strikes against Iran mean? How would combat unfold? How many might die? In his own unique and powerful style, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) dissects the issue that has the entire world on edge. The US Army Iraq war veteran examines the harrowing geopolitical game of chicken playing out on Donald Trump’s Twitter account, in the halls of Congress and around exploding oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman. We go deep with gragarious cryptology and intelligence expert, Navy combat veteran, MSNBC terrorism analyst, and best-selling author, Malcolm Nance (@MalcolmNance). Before joining the Navy, Malcolm came from a family with generations of combat veterans and grew up in Philadelphia studying Spanish, French and Latin, and taking free classes in Russian and Chinese on weekends at a local high school. He served for 20 years in the clandestine world of top secret covert combat operations from Beirut to Libya to Iraq. He shares fascinating war and spy stories that sound like the stuff from the movies. One of the few African Americans to serve in his area of expertise, and one of the rare Americans to have already engaged in combat with the Iranians, Malcolm has a viewpoint like no other. He has also been an outspoken critic of Republican and Democrat leaders at the highest levels—and battled haters and partisans across American and in the Wild West of political Twitter. Like all episodes, this show delivers the 4 I’s that define the Angry Americans podcast: integrity, information, impact and inspiration. It’s the newest installment of the innovative political and social podcast that’s jump-starting conversation nationwide and has been featured on CNN, MSNBC, the Associated Press and Variety. Listen now and step into the fascinating and entertaining show that takes you behind the curtains of politics, media, war and activism at the highest levels. This episode of Angry Americans is supported by our friends at Oscar Mike. Oscar Mike (@WeAreOscarMike) is the exclusive provider of the awesomely comfortable Angry Americans t-shirts worn by Paul Rieckhoff, Ron Perlman, Rachel Maddow and other recent guests and fans of the show worldwide. And for behind-the-scenes videos from this episode and exclusive video content featuring Malcolm Nance, Rachel Maddow, Tom Collicio, Sarah Jessica Parker and other recent guests, visit AngryAmericans.us. If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. Angry Americans is connecting, uniting and empowering people of all backgrounds nationwide and is powered by Righteous Media. Join the movement now. Watch the Conversation: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices