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271. State of the Union Special Edition. How Did Biden Do? Did He Move Independents? Dissecting The Big Night From Cannabis to Ukraine to Veterans to Forgotistan.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
03/08/24 • 15 min
Welcome to a special State of the Union recap special edition episode of Independent Americans.
Normally, the State of the Union address is a civics lesson, pageantry and performance. Normally, it doesn’t move the needle.
But last night was different. It was the most important SOTU in a generation. Voters were watching. Including millions who are still on the fence. And especially independent Americans.
And so was Paul Rieckhoff. He’s been a guest at the State of the Union himself twice. And he’s got a quick, independent, no-BS breakdown of the big night.
If you missed it, this is a quick (and independent) breakdown. And if you didn’t miss it, this is a take you haven’t heard anywhere else. With an important focus on what was most important.
How’d Biden do? And did this big night make a difference? What did the partisans and corporate media miss?
Press play and find out.
Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff 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 it always delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be 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.
-Or also in Austin for SXSW on Tuesday at 10AM for an Army Futures Command panel
POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH: ALTERNATIVE HELP FOR INVISIBLE INJURIES: https://dodxtech.com/schedule/
-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on social media. And share yours.
-Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And get cool IA and Righteous hats, t-shirts and other merch.
-Check out other powerful, independent Righteous podcasts 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.
Ways to listen:
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We’re only six months into Trump 2.0 and things are getting bad fast. He was looking for a fight. And he found it. Unrest in Los Angeles has been met with a mobilization of troops that few predicted. But your host, Paul Rieckhoff, did.
For five years we’ve been sounding the alarm. Thinking the unthinkable—that has often come true. From COVID, to Trump refusing to leave office, to the January 6th insurrection, to armed violence and now troops in the streets—-this is one episode you can’t afford to miss.
And in times like these you need to hear from voices of experience, voices of calm, and voices of reason. Barbara Starr is all that and more and she joins Paul for a no bullshit look at where we are—and where we are going.
She’s a renowned journalist, an Emmy award winning producer, and a former CNN Pentagon correspondent. She spent 21 years reporting from hotspots including Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, the Horn of Africa and the Chinese-North Korean border and is one of the most recognizable faces in conflict reporting. She’s reported extensively on fallen and wounded troops, as well as the plight of homeless veterans. She’s seen and covered it all. She’s one of the best in the business and there isn’t anybody else we’d rather talk to about all of it.
So as the world turns increasingly chaotic and dangerous, take a couple minutes to listen to this conversation, get yourself smarter and get ready for what comes next. Buckle up. And welcome to Independent Americans, Episode 338.
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 Barbara’s previous appearance in episode 308.
-Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates.
-WATCH video of Paul and Barbara’s conversation.
-NEW! Watch video of the full episode.
-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 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.
Ways to listen:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0F1lzdRbTB0XYen8kyEqXe
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Social channels:
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339. Sebastian Junger. America at the Breaking Point. Trump Blowing Through Every Red Line. 2,000 More Troops to LA. Will Trump Bomb Iran? The Golden Rule of American War. Props to Everyone After No Kings. Ukraine Is Still Happening. Ice Cream and Grads.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
06/19/25 • 63 min
Summer is officially here and things are getting hot. Too hot. From the assassination of state legislators in Minnesota last week to a potential hot war with Iran to more and more troops deployed into American streets, this is one of the tensest times anyone can remember.
And in tense times it’s good to get a little perspective. And we’ve got the perfect guest to dish it out. Sebastian Junger returns and he’s not holding anything back. He’s been on the show five times and he’s one of host Paul Rieckhoff’s favorite conversations every time.
The best selling author and award winning documentary film maker returns to tear into all of the latest news and headlines. From LA to Ukraine and everywhere in between. It’s an honest and heartfelt deep dive into what it means to be a man, a dad, a patriot and an American in 2025. It’s a wide ranging discussion and it’s the kind of content you can only get here.
America is at a crossroads. Conversations like this can help us pick the right path forward.
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.
Sebastian’s previous appearances:
-Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates.
-WATCH video of Paul and Sebastian’s conversation.
-NEW! Watch video of the full episode.
-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 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.
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
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentameri...

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.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
11/14/24 • 66 min
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 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.
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/
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183. Sec. Pete Buttigieg. Infrastructure & National Security. Will He Run Again? Afghanistan Now. How Fatherhood Changed Him. Can DOT Projects Fight Extremism? PACT Act Reactions. Mar-a-Lago Raid Sparks Domestic Threats. Plane, Train or Automobile?
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
08/11/22 • 54 min
Just when you think things in America can’t get any dicier, they do. And now is definitely a time to stay vigilant. And in this episode especially, we’ve got you covered.
Unless you’ve been sleeping on the beach for the last week, you know that the Feds delivered a search warrant at the Mar-a-Lago residence of former President Trump. And what you may not know, is that Trump supporters of all kinds, (and especially the most radical kind), are activated. They are threatening. And things in this country just got a whole lot hotter.
And we’re digging into it. And doing what we always do–bringing light to contrast the heat. Paul rips into the true scope and scale of the rise in domestic threats. Highlights the helpers that are making a positive impact. And talks to a very special (returning) guest that rose to prominence precisely because he brought an approach and tone that was more about building things up, than burning them down.
Back in December of 2019, Secretary (then Mayor) Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) joined this show for a huge, live-audience Episode 37 at the Classic Car Club in NYC. Buttigieg was on fire at the time, and nearing the peak of his Presidential run. And when the dust settled, he had landed in the cabinet and now serves as Secretary of Transportation–overseeing trillions of dollars in projects nationwide.
Buttigieg is one of the most important voices in American politics–and a leader that’s had unique appeal for independent Americans. He’s also the only combat veteran serving in the cabinet outside of the Secretary of Defense. In this new episode, you’ll again get to hear Buttigieg asked questions he’s never been asked before. He and Paul chop it up on everything from extremism in America, to parenthood, to Afghanistan, to pancakes vs waffles. And whether or not he will run for President again. It’s a deep, fast and fun conversation that will give you insight into what’s really in store for the future of our country.
Other shows focus on what’s happening. This show focuses on what’s next.
Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff @PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the most important stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. And talks to powerful and influential leaders of all political backgrounds. It’s independent content for independent Americans. And all Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these wild times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.
Stay vigilant, America. Skip the other run-of-the-mill political shows. And listen now.
-Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.
-Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.
-Represent for this show with some very cool Independent Americans merchandise.
-Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.
-And you can watch video of Paul Rieckhoff and Secretary Buttigieg’s conversation here.
-Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.
Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company that delivers independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

98. Charlotte Clymer Returns. Understanding the End of Trump’s Transgender Military Ban. Vetting Denis McDonough For VA Secretary. Biden’s Busy First Week. The Next Domestic Terrorism Threat.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
01/28/21 • 69 min
Maybe you’ve slept better recently knowing that Trump no longer has access to our military. And to our nukes. But stakes are still high. As high as ever. And we’re gonna continue to break it down. This is not the time to rest---or even celebrate. That time is over. This is the time to stay focused and to stay vigilant.
In this fiery episode, our host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is again joined by dynamic transgender activist, writer and Army veteran, Charlotte Clymer (@CMClymer). They break down Biden’s repeal of Trump’s military transgender ban, the confirmation hearing of Denis McDonough to head the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), white nationalism in the military and veterans community, and pancakes vs waffles. Charlotte was named one of Fortune Magazine's '40 under 40', joined us back in Episode 65, and returns now to break down the latest news with fire, wit and independence. And as always, there’s a focus on the national security and veterans issues you won’t hear anywhere else. It’s the best independent news, politics and culture podcast in America.
You can also check out video of this conversation with Charlotte Clymer and a wide range of music, political, business and media players from Chuck D to Jeffrey Wright to Medal of Honor Recipient Flo Groberg to Sarah Jessica Parker to Stephen Colbert to Meghan McCain to Mayor Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous Media YouTube page. It’s political, social and industry diversity like no other show anywhere.
If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. But it’s about much more than that. Angry Americans is your trusted, independent source for news, politics, culture and inspiration. It’s a smart, fun and candid perspective like nowhere else in the media.
You can also join us for exclusive events and activities by becoming a member of the Angry Americans Patreon community. For just $5/month, you’ll get unique access to our amazing guests, our dynamic host, merch discounts, and exclusive content. Angry Americans is possible thanks to our Patreon supporters. Angry Americans empowers independent Americans and is powered by Righteous Media.
Find us on social and get more involved:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AngryAmericans
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angryamericansus
Instagram: http://instagram.com/angryamericansUSA
And YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrlrGIJcmgIsJQgOR1ev-ew/featured
Watch the Conversation:
https://youtu.be/oNlXxTKVE4Q

185. Dan Lamothe. Washington Post Exclusive: Inside the Carnage at Kabul Airport. Afghanistan 1 Year Later. New Airstrikes in Syria. Month 6 of Russia's Ukraine Invasion. Taiwan, The Arctic & Where War Could Come Next. Andrew Yang Ghosts on Our Show.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
08/25/22 • 44 min
One year ago this week, the great American betrayal of Afghanistan culminated with a total debacle of a withdrawal that ended in death and carnage.
On Aug. 26, 2021, 13 US troops and 170 Afghans were killed when a bomb ripped through the crowd at the Abbey Gate. The blast took only seconds, but the devastation will live on for decades.
And in this pod, we’ll go deep into it with new reporting from The Washington Post’s intrepid defense reporter, Dan Lamothe (@DanLamothe).
Dan joined us on this show twice before. Once for a pre-inauguration preview in January of 2021 for Episode 96. And again for Episode 154 back in February 2022 to talk about then new documents that revealed the U.S. military was intensely frustrated with the administration over the Afghanistan evacuation. The Washington Post broke the story, and Dan was the lead reporter and joined us to talk about it.
And now he’s back—one year after the collapse of Afghanistan—to share the insights and moving takeaways from his exclusive new story.
Dan talked to 13 U.S. troops who survived the Kabul airport disaster about how their feelings of guilt and grief endure. There’s also a companion podcast that features three of them. It’s harrowing, frustrating and heartbreaking stuff. That suicide bomber did more than kill dozens that day. It blew apart the lives of all who survived. And the Biden narrative for Afghanistan.
And yes, kids. America is still at war. In many places. Including Syria. Host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) and Dan also dig into the US airstrike in Syria that most Americans didn't even see. And it’s been 6 months since Russia invaded Ukraine. Is support inside the Pentagon slipping after all the carnage? Listen and find out.
And, Paul and Dan break down where the next American bombs might fall. And where the next unformed American boots might walk. The answers might surprise you.
Speaking of surprises, and things blowing up, that’s what happened to this show 48 hours ago. We were very happy Dan could join us. But that wasn’t the original plan. As Paul told you last episode, we had a big guest coming up. But after a bit of back and forth, things went in a different direction. The guest flaked in a big way. And you’ll hear more.
Every episode of Independent Americans breaks down the most important news stories–and offers light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s independent content for independent Americans. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans is your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope. Stay vigilant, America.
-Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining our IA community on Patreon.
-Watch video of Paul and Dan’s conversation here.
-Find us on social media and www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can also get IA merch.
-Wanna advertise on the pod? Hit us up.
-Also check out new episodes of other Righteous Media podcasts including the B Dorm Podcast, The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra and Uncle Montel - The OG of Weed.
Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Righteous is an independent, American, Veteran-owned and led content company.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f...

196. Michael Beschloss. Midterm Election Post-Mortem. The Camouflage Wave. 2024 Starts Now. Is Trump vs Biden Inevitable? DeSantis vs Moore in 2028? Independent Prospects for President. McMullin Loses in Utah. Veterans Day. Amherst vs Williams.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
11/10/22 • 70 min
The most important election of our lifetime is finally over. Sorta. And the final contest may be just beginning.
America is divided. And half the country is not happy this week. Again. Anger and division is the story of our lives in America now. And if you’re feeling like it’s not, just wait a few more days. Because President Mayhem is back. Trump is back. And we all know what that means for our politics.
But what does it mean for 2024?
What does it mean for a likely match up against Biden?
What does it mean for a possible run by an independent candidate for President?
And what does this midterm election mean?
What is its place in history?
Is this history repeating itself? Or are we starting over?
Michael Beschloss (@BeschlossDC) is the perfect person to ask. He’s the winner of an Emmy award, serves as NBC News Presidential Historian, and contributes to the PBS NewsHour. He is the author of nine best-selling books, including Presidential Courage: Brave Leaders and How They Changed America, 1789-1989, Jacqueline Kennedy: Historic Conversations on Life with John F. Kennedy (co-authored with Caroline Kennedy) and two volumes on President Lyndon Johnson’s secret White House tapes. Beschloss also has the largest Twitter following of any historian on earth. And in a Twitterverse filled with bots and hate and nastiness, he remains a reason to be on that website. Pouring out historic photos and perspective. He’s also a father...and a generous, kind and nice man.
On the pod recently we’ve had a Professor of Nukes.
We’ve had a professor of history.
And now, we’ve got another.
Michael Beschloss is a truly important, inspiring and iconic American that is shaping what America has been, what it is, and what it will be. And a truly independent American.
It’s a conversation that will help you get smarter, predict better, and of course, stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. And this week, we saw what can happen if we’re willing to pay that price.
Is this history repeating itself? Or are we starting over? Welcome to Veterans Week. Welcome to the end of Election Season 2022. Welcome to the beginning of Election Season 2024.
Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by author, activist and social entrepreneur Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be 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.

215. Matt Gallagher. America on Edge. The Iraq War at 20. The Trump Indictment. Inside Ukraine’s Volunteers. Tulsa King. March Madness, the World Baseball Classic and Sports as a Prism and a Mirror. National Mr Rogers Day.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
03/23/23 • 85 min
America has had a hard few weeks. And definitely taken some Ls. And as one season ends, and another begins, we’re calling a big time pitcher out of our bullpen to help us make sense of it all. From Trump’s indictment, to Iraq at 20, to Ukraine’s urgent needs, to March Madness and the WBC.
Matt Gallagher (@MattGallagher0) is back. He joined us last after just leaving Ukraine for Episode 161 in March of 2022.
One of the most important writers of our time, especially touching on issues of war and national security, Matt is the internationally-recognized author of the novels Empire City, Youngblood, the forthcoming Daybreak, the class Iraq war memoir Kaboom, and a finalist for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize. His work has appeared in Esquire, ESPN, The New York Times, The Paris Review and Wired. He’s also co-editor of the short fiction collection Fire & Forget: Short Stories from the Long War. He’s a popular, funny and insightful voice—including on Twitter–on everything from politics and war to his beloved Cleveland Browns.
His new Esquire article digs into the Ukraine war in a way nobody else has before. And he’s gonna talk about it. And much more.
Matt was featured in Vanity Fair as one of the voices of a new generation of American war literature. A graduate of Wake Forest and Columbia, Matt is a 2021-23 fellow with the Tulsa Artist Fellowship, based in Oklahoma. He lives with his wife and sons in Tulsa and works as a writing instructor for NYU’s Words After War program– devoted to bringing vets and civilians together to study conflict literature.
Every episode of Independent Americans hosted by Paul Rieckhoff is the truth beyond the headlines–and light to contrast the heat of other politics and news shows. It’s content for the 42% of Americans that proudly call themselves independent. And delivers the Righteous Media 5 Is: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. Always with a unique focus on national security, foreign affairs and military and veterans issues. This is another pod to help you stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. In these trying times especially, Independent Americans will continue to be your trusted place for independent news, politics, inspiration and hope.
-Get extra content, connect with guests, attend events, get merch discounts and support this show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon.
- WATCH video of Paul and Matt’s conversation here.
-Ready Matt’s latest Equire piece: “The Secret Weapons of Ukraine”
-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.
-Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.
-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 Righteous Media. America’s next great independent media company.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

266. Matt Gallagher. Super Bowl Politics. How F#cked Up is America Right Now? Speaker Johnson is a Terrible Quarterback. Border Bill Fumble. Haley is QB2. Is the US Soft? SC and NV Primaries. Civil War or World War? Daybreak: Matt’s Powerful New Novel.
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff
02/08/24 • 74 min
It’s Super Bowl week in America. And it’s a Super Bowl year of politics and national security. And as the world focuses on America’s big game, it’s also focused on America’s dysfunction. And so are we. The border deal has collapsed, funding for Ukraine and Israel is stalled, and the election division across the country is reaching peak levels of nasty and stupid. It’s an especially ugly time in America–as America again thrusts itself in the global spotlight. But there are glimmers of hope–and even fun. And in this smart, fast and fun episode, we’re digging into all of it. As only Independent America does. From Putin and Zelensky to Mahomes and Tony Romo. From the fight for The Lombardi Trophy, to the fight of our time, this is a conversation for everyone. And one of the most surprising and interesting ones you’ll hear this Super Bowl week.
Matt Gallagher is of the most important writers of our time, especially touching on issues of war and national security. And a sharp, real and funny voice of reason for America. He is the internationally-recognized author of the novels Empire City, Youngblood, the forthcoming Daybreak, the classic Iraq war memoir Kaboom, and a finalist for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize. His work has appeared in Esquire, ESPN, The New York Times, The Paris Review and Wired. He’s also co-editor of the short fiction collection Fire & Forget: Short Stories from the Long War. He’s a popular, funny and insightful voice—including on Twitter–on everything from politics and war to his beloved Cleveland Browns.
Matt was featured in Vanity Fair as one of the voices of a new generation of American war literature. A graduate of Wake Forest and Columbia, Matt is a 2021-23 fellow with the Tulsa Artist Fellowship, based in Oklahoma, and a US Army veteran of the Iraq war. He lives with his wife, young sons and dog in Tulsa and works as a writing instructor for NYU’s Words After War program– devoted to bringing vets and civilians together to study conflict literature.
Stay vigilant, America.
Matt’s previous appearances on IA:
-Get extra content, connect with guests, attend exclusive events, get merch discounts and support this critical show that speaks truth to power by joining us on Patreon. Where you can also see or watch extra content with this guest.
-Pre-order Matt’s new book Daybreak now here.
-Meet Matt on one of his book tour dates nationwide–or invite him to visit your area.
-Watch the full video of this conversation with Paul and Matt here.
-Check the hashtag #LookForTheHelpers on Twitter. And share yours.
-Find us on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us–where you can also grab some cool IA gear. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media.
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/
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FAQ
How many episodes does Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff have?
Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff currently has 346 episodes available.
What topics does Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff cover?
The podcast is about News, News Commentary, Podcasts and Politics.
What is the most popular episode on Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff?
The episode title '52. Flo Groberg. How to be a Hero in the War vs Coronavirus. The Medal of Honor Recipient From Inside Seattle. The Department of Veterans Affairs and Pentagon Get Slammed By COVID19. Cuomo vs Trump for the Soul of America. #StayFrosty' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff?
The average episode length on Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff is 74 minutes.
How often are episodes of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff released?
Episodes of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff?
The first episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff was released on Mar 27, 2019.
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