Trump Teases Boots on the Ground in Iran. Six Troops Now KIA. Israel, US Bases and Embassies Hit. Does The War Press Coverage Already Suck? With Barbara Starr. Markets Plummet. US Pilot Shows How Awesome Our Women Warriors Are. The 2026 Chickenhawk Club.

Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff breaks down Trump’s fast‑escalating war with Iran, the rise of deadly drone warfare, and what it all means for American troops, families, and civilians worldwide. Then, regular guest and legendary CNN Pentagon reporter Barbara Starr joins Paul to cut through the chaos, dissect the Pentagon’s long‑delayed press briefings, and explain why “air power alone” won’t deliver victory in Iran—or anywhere else. From unprotected American troops killed in a makeshift Kuwaiti trailer, to embassies under threat and chaotic evacuation warnings, this episode exposes how badly Washington has prepared for the conflicts it helped ignite. Paul and Barbara also spotlight the now 6 American troops killed in action, the viral story of the downed American F‑15 pilot, the courage and professionalism of women in combat, and the mental‑health toll on service members, vets, and families now bracing for a long, uncertain war. If you care about the troops, the truth, and the future of American democracy in a time of permanent crisis, this is a must‑listen.

-WATCH full video of this episode here.

As mentioned on the show:

-To help the families of our fallen servicemembers in this time of unimaginable pain and loss, support the heroic work of Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS): https://www.taps.org.

-Learn more about Paul’s work to elect a new generation of independent leaders with Independent Veterans of America.

-Learn more about American Veterans for Ukraine here.

-Learn more about The Headstrong Project for Veterans, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), and Department of Veterans Affairs resources in your area. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness. It’s a show of strength. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness. If you or a loved one are in immediate crisis, dial 988 and press 1, or text 838255.

Connect with Independent Americans:

•Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all podcast platforms
•Read more at Substack
•Support ad-free episodes at Patreon
•onnect: Instagram • X/Twitter • BlueSky • Facebook

Follow on social: @PaulRieckhoff on X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky

–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.

–And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch now in time for the new year.

Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media.

And now part of the BLEAV network!