Video

Full Interviews

EPISODE 320: BOB KERREY - FULL INTERVIEW

320. Bob Kerrey. Trump Abandons Ukraine. Gabbard is Confirmed. Trump Guts USAID. Hegseth Bans Books at DoD Schools, Attacks Press. Heroism is Not Efficient. CFPB Under Attack. WTF, Fetterman. Mayor ...Adams is Crooked. Rating Kendrick’s Super Bowl.

Happy Valentine’s Day, America. Tulsi Gabbard is confirmed, Elon Musk is ransacking our government, the FBI is being purged, Trump and Hegseth are abandoning Ukraine. And Putin is coming to visit America.

What a great time for our enemies. The doors are wide open for them everywhere. Putin must be smiling from ear to ear.

We really need that upside down American flag emoji right about now.

And we also need truly patriotic, candid, courageous and unafraid voices of reason. And we’ve got one of the best.

Bob Kerrey (@KerreyBob) is a Navy SEAL Vietnam Veteran, Medal of Honor Recipient, former Governor and Senator from Nebraska, member of The 9/11 Commission and constant voice of conscience for America. Lots of people talk tough. Bob Kerrey’s lived tough. And he’s not holding back on Elon Musk, Trump, Pete Hegseth, Tulsi Gabbard and what we’re facing as a nation. He’s got advice for Democrats on how to connect with real Americans and explains why he went against his own party to support Independent Navy Veteran Dan Osborn for Senate last year in Nebraska.

He also shares his heroic journey of overcoming adversity, having part of his leg amputated, why he chooses happiness every day and what it’s like to have a Navy ship named after him. He’s a brilliant, honest, funny and inspiring American hero. And this is an episode you’re not gonna wanna miss.

Every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. Independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve–and stay vigilant.

Be sure to check out the show now on our YouTube page here.

-Watch the full conversation here.

-Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.

-Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.

-Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.

Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company.

Ways to listen:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff
TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/
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/Show More

EPISODE 320: BOB KERREY - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 319: ASHA RANGAPPA - FULL INTERVIEW

319. Asha Rangappa. This is Flooding the Zone. Don’t Comply in Advance. How an FBI Background Check Works. CARLA F. BAD. Super Bowl Security. A Radical VA Sec Confirmed. Another ...J6 Criminal Dies. Stop the Chop. Luca to Lakers.

Whew. This week is what Trump flooding the zone really looks like. He’s throwing political flash-bang after political flash-bang.

And everyone feels unbalanced and like they have whiplash. While his opponents are overwhelmed, disorganized, leaderless and demoralized. While he continues to gather more and more levers of power. And gain even more momentum.

This is political shock and awe. And it’s working.

Because the Democrats are nowhere to be found. They’re old and lost and powerless to stop Trump and his hoard from doing whatever they want. Powerless to stop themselves from appointing radical election deniers like new VA Secretary Doug Collins to cabinet positions. That’s right. 22 Democrat senators voted along with the Republicans to put Collins in charge of the VA.

They won’t save you. They can’t even save themselves.

But don’t despair fully. Because we’re gonna help you rise above the flood and look upstream to what’s next. Especially around the FBI—which is now under political attack from Trump, Musk and the extreme right.

And Asha Rangappa (@AshaRangappa_) is our guest. A true American badass, she is an Assistant Dean and Senior Lecturer at Yale University’s Jackson School of Global Affairs and a former Associate Dean at Yale Law School is back. She served as a Special Agent in the New York Division of the FBI, specializing in counterintelligence investigations. Her work involved assessing threats to national security, conducting classified investigations on suspected foreign agents, and performing undercover work.

She’s the perfect guest to break it all down to get you caught up and up to speed on all things Trump, national security and FBI. She gives her straight and often sobering assessment of the situation ahead and how and when it will unfold. While also taking you through what’s actually involved in an FBI background, how many agents worked on the Jan 6 investigation and how the FBI has its hands full this weekend with the Super Bowl. It’s a lot. But we’ll cut through it fast and fiercely.

Every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. Independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve–and stay vigilant.

Past appearances by Asha: Episode 267 and Episode 225.

Be sure to check out the show now on our YouTube page here.

-Watch the full conversation here.

-Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.

-Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.

-Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.

Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company.

Ways to listen:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff
TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/
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/Show More

EPISODE 318: DAN LAMOTHE - FULL INTERVIEW

318. Dan Lamothe. Hegseth is Confirmed. J6 Insurrections Go Free & Commit Crimes. Trump’s Hiring Freeze Slams Vets at VA. 82nd and 10th Mtn Troops to the Border. Hamas Releases ...More Hostages. Trump and Hegseth Target Gen Milley. RFK is Still Ridiculous.

This is what blowing things up looks like. Radical, damaging and confusing for millions. With so much unnecessary stress on regular Americans. This is what chaos looks like. This is what mayhem looks like. This is what Trump 2.0 looks like.

As the country struggles to grapple with the chaotic transition your host Paul Rieckhoff rips into all of it. From Pete Hegseth’s confirmation and the lack of resistance from the Democrats to the next on the chopping block, resident kook RFK Jr. and his antivax nonsense. None of it is normal and none of it makes us safer.

And with the military and the pentagon squarely in the crosshairs, we’ve got the perfect guest to help break it all down. The Washington Post’s Dan Lamothe (@DanLamothe) is one of the best military and Pentagon reporters in America. He has written about the US Armed Forces for more than a decade, traveling extensively, embedding with each service, and covering combat in Afghanistan numerous times. He’s a voice of clarity in the turbulent times and this conversation will leave you smarter, better informed and there’s no spin, no agenda, no bullshit.

Every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 49% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. Independent content for independent Americans. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. The podcast that helps you stay ahead of the curve–and stay vigilant.

Past appearances by Dan Lamothe: Episode 96, Episode 154, Episode 185, Episode 206, and Episode 245

Be sure to check out the show now on our YouTube page here.

-Watch the full episode here.

-Join the movement. Sign up to get our regular breakdowns of the independent news you need to know.

-Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra content, connect with guests, meet other Independent Americans, attend events, get merch discounts, and support this show that speaks truth to power.

-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers. And share yours.

-Find us on social media or http://www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get a cool, new IA hoodie sweatshirt just in time for the start of the cold season.

-Check out other Righteous podcasts like The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed and B Dorm.

Independent Americans is powered by veteran-owned and led Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company.

Ways to listen:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff/id1457899667
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/49a684c3-68e1-4a85-8d93-d95027a8ec64/independent-americans-with-paul-rieckhoff
TuneIn Radio: https://tunein.com/podcasts/News--Politics-Podcasts/Independent-Americans-p1214607/
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/Show More

EPISODE 195: KEN BURNS - FULL INTERVIEW

EPISODE 312: JASON ALEXANDER - FULL INTERVIEW

312. Jason Alexander. Fifth Annual Festivus Episode!! Drone Madness. Tuberville Doubles Down On Dumb. Daniel Penny & Elon Musk Visit Army Navy. Democrats Fumble Another One. Elf on the Shelf ...Exhaustion. The Secret Santa Delivering Hope to North Carolina.

The holidays are here and for long-time listeners, that means one thing and one thing only. The legend! The iconic actor who played George Constanza on Seinfeld--friend of this show—conscience for America—and American icon: Jason Alexander (@IJasonAlexander) is back for his annual Festivus visit and it’s every bit as epic as you’ve come to expect!

Yes, friends, FESTIVUS is back!

A Festivus for the rest of us.

And this year Jason is bringing a bag full of goodies to help you navigate the turbulent times 2025 is certain to bring. It’s a perfect way to wrap up 2024 and a great listen for you and your whole family as you head over the river and through the woods.

2024 has been a crazy year. And 2025 will be no different. But we’re bringing light not heat and we’re bringing the conversations you want and the news you need. Every guest on this show has shaped America’s past, is impacting America’s present, and is driving America’s future. And Jason continues to help us understand ourselves, our past, and our future.

He is of course best known for his role as George Costanza in maybe the greatest television series of all time, Seinfeld. He was nominated for seven Primetime Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards. He won a Tony Award. And he’s a truly inspiring, fascinating and entertaining man.

And Paul is breaking down drone madness, the “debate” over vaccines, the Army Navy game political post-game review, the defense bill nobody’s paying attention to, and the trials of a parent playing Elf on the Shelf!

Skip the cable news and partisan spin and get your weekly dose of independent vigilance.

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.

Previous Jason Alexander Festivus appearances:
December 28, 2023 - Episode 259
December 19, 2019 - Episode 38
December 18, 2020 - Episode 90
Dec. 15, 2022 - Episode 201

-Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and reach out if you’re interested in running in 2025 or 2026.

-WATCH video of Paul and Jason’s conversation on our YouTube channel.

-Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra exclusive 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 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.Show More

EPISODE 311: LEO SHANE III - FULL INTERVIEW

311. Leo Shane. The Legendary Military Times Reporter on Hegseth’s History and Rocky Nomination. Collins for VA Secretary—Who Is This Guy? Assad Goes Down. Musk and Ramaswamy Wanna Cut All ...Vets Benefits. Army Navy Week. Remembering Eddy Schrank.

Leo Shane (@LeoShane) understands the intersection of politics, veterans and the military better than almost anybody. He’s covered Capitol Hill, VA, the Pentagon and the White House for 20 years. As Deputy Editor for the Military Times, he’d received countless awards for his commitment to his craft and tireless dedication and outstanding reporting.

He’s an inspiring journalist who has stood alongside veterans for decades as an ally and truth teller. His reporting has led to reforms for how the military deals with journalists and he has shown light in places where light was sorely needed.

From the Hegseth nomination for SecDef, to the massive defense bill being debated by Congress, the new VA Secretary nominee that nobody’s focused on, to rating the current VA Secretary as he nears the end of his 4-year run, he’s here to break it all down with your host, Paul Rieckhoff. And Paul’s reacting to all that and another wild week of national security news. From the arrest of the United Healthcare CEO’s shooter to the acquittal of Daniel Penny in New York it’s been a wild ride and we’re hitting all of it with the no holds barred style you’ve come to expect. It’s a dose of reality the cable news spin machine doesn’t want you to hear and you can only get it here. Including a preview of the Army Navy football game and a salute to an incredible American hero.

Skip the cable news and partisan spin and get your weekly dose of independent vigilance.

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 reach out if you’re interested in running in 2025 or 2026.

-WATCH video of Paul and Leo’s conversation on our YouTube channel.

-Support the family of Eddy Schrank by making a donation here.

-Eddy Schrank’s obituary.

-Eddy singing the National Anthem.

-Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra exclusive 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 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.Show More

EPISODE 310: SEBASTIAN JUNGER - FULL INTERVIEW

310. Sebastian Junger. Hegseth’s Mom Pushes Back. Biden Pardons Hunter. Dems Are Ridiculous. Of Course Trump’s Sec of the Navy Never Served. The Economist Wants to Cut Vets Benefits. Russia ...Steals Ukrainian Kids. Martial Law in South Korea. Wild Robot.

December has already been crazy. But it may feel like the calm before the storm once we get to January. With less than 60 days until Trump’s inauguration, the news, chaos and controversy is taking no holiday break. And we’ve got the perfect returning guest to help us make sense of all of it. And anticipate what may come next. Best-selling author Sebastian Junger is a powerful, thoughtful and trusted conscience for America. His books and films explore the heart of our past, present and future. From The Perfect Storm, to War, to Tribe, to Freedom, to Restrepo, to his newest, In My Time of Dying, Sebastian Junger explores what it means to be American and his key takeaways from the election. With our nation divided as a crossroads, his wisdom-filled voice is invaluable to all Americans–and especially to independents.

Sebastian reacts to Trump’s cabinet nominees, rips into why he thinks the Democrats and Harris failed, and takes us behind the scenes of an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience. It’s a raw, insightful and important conversation you don’t wanna miss.

And our host, Paul Rieckhoff, pulls no punches–per usual. Before the conversation with Sebastian, he independently digs into the latest controversial Trump nominations, shares below-the-radar news from the battlefields of Ukraine and Syria, analyzes the crumbling nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, and highlights the one Senator that might be key. He also updates us on the squeaker of a final race called this week featuring an Independent Veterans of America-endorsed candidate. And, finally he reflects on this extremely unusual holiday and shares a new favorite family film.

Skip the cable news and partisan spin and get your weekly dose of independent vigilance.

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.

Previous Sebastian Junger appearances:
Episode 116 - May 27, 2021
Episode 207 - January 6, 2023
Episode 250 - November 9, 2023

-Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and reach out if you’re interested in running in 2025 or 2026.

-WATCH video of Paul and Sebastian’s conversation on our YouTube channel.

-Join the movement. Hook into our exclusive Patreon community of Independent Americans. Get extra exclusive 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 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.Show More

EPISODE 308: BARBARA STARR - FULL INTERVIEW

308. Barbara Starr. Hegseth Backlash Grows. Pentagon Purge. Deploying US Troops Against Migrants. Collins Is Trump’s Radical VA Sec Pick. The Onion Buys Infowars. RFK Jr Returns. Biden Unshackles Ukraine. ...Morning Joe Bends the Knee. UFC & Chicken Hawks.

The flood of emotions, political news and outrageous Trump cabinet nominees continues. And so do the potential threats to our country. Trump wants to deploy US troops to remove migrants. A controversial SecDef nominee wants to ban women in combat (while they’re in combat now). RFK Jr could lead HHS. The new VA Secretary nominee is hardly even mentioned. Dr Oz is gonna run Medicare. And Dr Phil might get a job in Washington from Trump soon too! These are wild and weird times. And none of it is normal. And our venerable host, Paul Rieckhoff, is gonna help you independently dig into all of it. And, take you inside what it’s like to go on CNN and wage war with the most partisan hacks. It’s the a behind-the-scenes look at cable news that you won’t soon forget.

And, we’re bringing you a unique and powerful conversation with a highly respectful leader who understands all of it. Barbara Starr is a renowned journalist, Emmy award winning producer, and former CNN Pentagon correspondent. Starr spent 21 years on CNN as Pentagon correspondent reporting from hotspots including Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, the Horn of Africa and the Chinese-North Korean border. Barbara Starr has become one of the most recognizable faces in conflict reporting. In addition to her work on foreign conflicts, Starr has reported extensively on fallen and wounded troops, as well as the plight of homeless veterans.

Starr worked for CNN from 2001 to 2022, and was a frequent regular on The Situation Room. Prior to CNN she worked for ABC News, where she won an Emmy for her work as a location producer. Starr has also served for several years on the Pentagon Press Association board advocating for greater press access to military operations. And she talks to us exclusively and candidly about all of it.

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 Barbara’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.Show More

EPISODE 307: DAN OSBORN - FULL INTERVIEW

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.Show More

EPISODE 304: TOM BOWMAN - FULL INTERVIEW

304. Tom Bowman. Legendary NPR Pentagon Reporter. Will January 6th Happen Again? Gen John Kelly Finally Speaks Out. Hamas Leader Sinwar is Dead. Tulsi Gabbard is No Longer a Self-Proclaimed ...Independent—GOOD! The Yankees Win! (And the Liberty and Dodgers).

This week, as the election draws closer, we’re narrowing the focus on national security. And we’ve got the perfect guest to discuss the topics that keep the watchers up at night and the area that is most likely to produce an October surprise. Tom Bowman is the legendary NPR National Desk reporter who covers the Pentagon along with co-hosting NPR's Taking Cover podcast and his latest podcast, “A Good Guy” from NPR’s Embedded.

In his current role, Bowman has traveled to Syria as well as Iraq and Afghanistan often for month-long visits and embedded with U.S. Marines and soldiers.

Before coming to NPR in April 2006, Bowman spent nine years as a Pentagon reporter at The Baltimore Sun. Altogether he was at The Sun for nearly two decades, covering the Maryland Statehouse, the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the National Security Agency (NSA). His coverage of racial and gender discrimination at NSA led to a Pentagon investigation in 1994.

Initially Bowman imagined his career path would take him into academia as a history, government, or journalism professor. During college Bowman worked as a stringer at The Patriot Ledger in Quincy, Mass. He also worked for the Daily Transcript in Dedham, Mass., and then as a reporter at States News Service, writing for the Miami Herald and the Anniston (Ala.) Star.

Bowman is a co-winner of a 2006 National Headliners' Award for stories on the lack of advanced tourniquets for U.S. troops in Iraq. In 2010, he received an Edward R. Murrow Award for his coverage of a Taliban roadside bomb attack on an Army unit. In 2024, Bowman was also awarded a Murrow Award for Best Investigative Reporting for the Taking Cover podcast. Bowman earned a Bachelor of Arts in history from St. Michael's College in Winooski, Vermont, and a master's degree in American Studies from Boston College.

He’s seen a lot, he’s done a lot and he goes deep with your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) in this hard hitting all new episode of Independent Americans. From post election violence to General John Kelly’s revelations about just how unfit Trump is for office to Hamas’ leader being killed by Israel, there is a lot happening. And even more that’s about to unfold as a result. Because on Independent Americans, we’re focused on not just what’s happening now, but also on what’s happening next. And when there is this much happening in the national security space, you better believe what happens next will be important.

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.

-Read the new Rolling Stone piece, “Ukraine May Cost Trump the Election”
-WATCH video of Paul and Tom’s conversation.
-Learn more about Independent Veterans of America.
-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.Show More

EPISODE 303: DAN OSBORN - FULL INTERVIEW

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.Show More

EPISODE 302: SHELANE ETCHISON - FULL INTERVIEW

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.Show More