HBO’s Succession is a global phenomenon. And a reflection and exploration of our tumultuous times. And Arian Moayed (@ArianMoayed) is in the center of all of it. He is an actor, activist and American success story. A powerful creative force, a voice for the voiceless, and a key piece of the best show on television.  Arian Moayed is the Iranian-born, award-winning actor and co-founder and Board Chair of Waterwell (@Waterwell), a civic-minded and socially conscious non-profit theater and education company. And he is one hell of an actor. He’s starred in The Humans, Guards at the Taj, Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo (alongside Robin Williams), an upcoming Shonda Rhimes series, Inventing Anna, in the newest Spiderman movie---Spider-Man: No Way Home- scheduled to be released in December, 2021 and the Emmy-winning super hit, Succession. At its core, Succession is about a fight for the soul of a company. A civil war pitting family member against family. And about a fight for the future. It’s about whether or not the next generation will be better than the last. That’s the core story of Succession. And right now, it’s also the core story of America.  Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) leads you behind the scenes for another candid conversation with an important, iconic and inspiring American. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. You can support this show and join our dynamic community of listeners by joining the IA Patreon community. You’ll get exclusive access to events, guests, merch discounts, and special content. And you’ll help us keep speaking independent truth to power.  You can also WATCH the full conversation with Arian and Paul here. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. Find the pod on social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angry Americans with Paul Rieckhoff

137. Arian Moayed. Stewy from “Succession.” Why is “Succession” So Important? Kendall Roy is like the Taliban. Saying “No” to Playing a Terrorist. From Escaping Iran to Acting in Spiderman. Lessons Learned from Robin Williams. Remembering Colin Powell.

Fall is here, the leaves are changing, Halloween is just a few weeks away, it’s been 10 months since domestic terrorists tried to overthrow our government, and now is still a time to stay vigilant. Because while the world was focused on William Shatner and his trip to space, and on Jon Gruden’s inexcusable words that got him fired as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, or on Dave Chappelle’s new Netflix special, or on the major league baseball playoffs, there was a critical hearing happening in Washington about some of the most dangerous threats to that line that keeps America safe. It was a hearing that some didn't want to happen. They didn’t think it was important. They didn’t think it was urgent. They didn’t think it was necessary.  But it was.  At 10AM on Oct 13, 2021, 10 months after domestic terrorists attacked our Capitol, the House Committee on Veterans Affairs held a hearing entitled, "Domestic Violent Extremist Groups and the Recruitment of Veterans." Most Americans didn’t watch it. But it was damn important. And in this episode, we’ll dig into why.  It’s up to all of us to stay vigilant. Because vigilance is the price of democracy. And one man paying that price is our guest in this episode. Navy Veteran, Navy Reserve Commander, and CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (@IAVA), and one of the most important voices in America: Jeremy Butler (@JeremyButler01).  Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) takes you behind the scenes for candid conversations with top leaders from all backgrounds. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. You can support the show and join our dynamic community of listeners by joining the IA Patreon community. You’ll get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And you’ll help us keep speaking independent truth to power.  You can also WATCH the full conversation with Jeremy and Paul here. Watch the testimony by Jeremy Butler before the House Veterans Affairs Committee (HVAC) here. And learn more about the vital work of IAVA here.  Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  Stay vigilant, America.               Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

136. Jeremy Butler. Extremism in the Military and Veterans Community. Testifying Before Congress via Zoom. Race and the Military. The American Mental Health Crisis. Shatner in Space. Veterans Day 2021.

Milo Ventimiglia (@MiloVentimiglia) is an actor, director and producer. And one of the hottest stars in America. He’s also a really nice, hard-working and fascinating guy. And a guy with very strong opinions about everything from Afghanistan, to Senator Joe Manchin’s obstructionism, to a strike in Hollywood by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) union. Milo is a fighter who stands up for what he believes in--not just in the roles he plays--but also in real life. And this is Milo the fighter as candid as you’ll ever hear him.  After early recognition for roles with Sylverstor Stallone in Rocky Balboa, on Gilmore Girls and the NBC series Heroes, Milo went on to star as Jack Pearson in the massively popular NBC drama, This Is Us. Now, the humble son of a Vietnam vet is a household name. He has received three Emmy nominations and won a Screen Actors Guild Award. But over a decade before that, Ventimiglia toured Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan with the USO in support of US troops. And he’s done it multiple times since.  Now, he’s using his star power to help veterans and to stand with working people. He’s supported veterans charities, and for the last month, has been making phone calls to US Senators to help a generation of men and women who’ve served since 9/11 create a Global War on Terror Memorial on The National Mall in Washington.  Milo’s been a friend of our host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff), for many years. They’ve worked together on issues, appeared together on political talk shows, and spent late nights hanging out in Hollywood getting pancakes. Milo shares the inside scoop on what’s to come on This Is Us, he’ll take us behind a red carpet with Nicole Kidman, and he’ll talk about creating a super action hero movie with past Independent Americans guests like, Bradley Whitford, Jeffrey Wright, Wes Chatham, Jon Bernthal, Jane Horton and Henry Rollins. You will be entertained. And inspired.  It’s another conversation that keeps it real. The kind to help you stay vigilant. Because  eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff takes you behind the scenes for candid conversations with top leaders from all backgrounds. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. You can support the show and join our dynamic community of listeners by joining the IA Patreon community. You’ll get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And you’ll help us keep speaking independent truth to power.  You can also WATCH the full conversation with Milo and Paul here: https://youtu.be/3cudG4PGvVw Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

135. Milo Ventimiglia. Actor and Activist. From Vietnam to Afghanistan to This Is Us. A Whole New Reason Senator Joe Manchin Sucks. Hollywood’s Biggest Union Strikes. The Fight for the Global War on Terror Memorial. Celebrity Tourists in War Zones.

From The West Wing, to Get Out, to Transparent, to The Handmaid’s Tale. For a generation, Bradley Whitford (@BradleyWhitford) has shaped the world’s understanding of politics--through the lens of entertainment.  But Bradley doesn’t just play politics. He lives it. At this precarious time in American history, art and politics are merging and colliding in powerful ways. He’s deeply involved in politics--and in causes he cares about. From climate change, to standing up for IATSE (the union that represents workers in film and television), Bradley’s a guy who cares deeply, and is not afraid to throw a punch. He’s earned three Emmys, been a figure in our film, TV and stage universe for a generation, and appeared in classics ranging from Adventures in Babysitting to Billy Madison to Scent of a Women to Revenge of the Nerds 2. After joining us way back in Episode 27 (one of our top episodes ever), the iconic actor and activist is back.  This is a fun, wide-ranging and candid episode. This is Bradley Whitford and Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) chopping it up on all kinds of issues. Bradley takes you on set in Toronto and inside the Emmy Awards. It’s an insider’s look at Hollywood and politics at the highest levels. And another powerful conversation that’s about more than just politics, news and culture. It’s about America--and about all of us.  Bradley talks about why The Handmaid’s Tale is so groundbreaking, about how Gilead is like Afghanistan, and about how he thinks Commander Lawrence would deal with Senators Krysten Cinema and Joe Manchin. We’ll also dig into his month in isolation in Canada, if he thought the Emmys this month should have been held inside during a pandemic, his Joe Biden in Hollywood story, and what he wants to clarify from his last visit to our show.  It’s another conversation that keeps it real. The kind to help you stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom. Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff takes you behind the scenes for candid conversations with top leaders from all backgrounds. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape.   You can support the show and join our dynamic community of listeners by joining the IA Patreon community. You’ll get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And you’ll help us keep speaking independent truth to power.    You can also WATCH the full conversation with Bradley and Paul here: https://youtu.be/jXi1dGYEcow   Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.    Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

134. Bradley Whitford. The Iconic Actor and Activist. The Handmaid’s Tale and The Taliban. Biden and Hollywood. What Would Commander Lawrence Do With Senators Sinema and Manchin? General Milley Under Fire. Is Afghanistan a “Strategic Failure”?

With Afghanistan now firmly in the hands of the Taliban, a full-scale war on women is underway inside that country. Women are being forcibly married, hunted, beaten and killed. Our President and many in Congress want to turn the page. But Zainab Salbi is on the front lines of the fight—and refuses to allow it.  We continue the Independent Americans deep dive into Afghanistan and all the ways it’s impacting the world, national security and American politics, with a focus this episode on the 14 million women left to fight and die under Taliban rule.  Zainab Salbi is an activist, author, Founder of Women for Women International, a renowned journalist. And she is a returning guest and audience favorite. She first appeared on this show in May 2019 and is back to break it down.  Raised in Baghdad, Iraq, Zainab grew up as a small girl calling Saddam Hussein her uncle. Her father was Hussein’s private pilot and from an early age, Zainab was thrust into the small and twisted circle of the notorious dictator. She escaped an abusive arranged marriage with only $400 in her pocket and would go from working in a Hallmark store in Chicago to receiving honors from the President of the United States at the White House. She now is a best-selling author and one of the most powerful Muslim-American voices in media and politics. Zainab has dedicated her life to the cause of helping women everywhere. And there has been no more urgent crisis than this one.  And with mounting tensions and issues for women everywhere reaching a boiling point, Zainab is the perfect voice for this moment. It’s another conversation that keeps it real. With tough lessons--and hard truths. The kind to help you stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.  As always, we’re bringing the Righteous Media 5 I’s: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact.   Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) takes you behind the scenes for candid conversations with top leaders from all backgrounds. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. You can support this show and join the community of listeners by joining our IA Patreon community. You’ll get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And you’ll help us keep speaking independent truth to power. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can check out new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent as fall begins. Zainab's Website: http://zainabsalbi.com/ Help support One Billion Rising: https://www.onebillionrising.org/ Help support baby Levi: https://www.gofundme.com/f/rylee-mccollums-child-fund https://www.gofundme.com/f/7cj7x-plane-ticket You can also watch the full conversation with Zainab Salbi and Paul Rieckhoff here: https://youtu.be/e7_vOeAulLY Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

133. Zainab Salbi. The War on Women In Afghanistan. The Reality of American Drone Strikes. Why Doesn’t Biden Get It? Recognizing The Taliban Is Like Gilead from Handmaid’s Tale. Women’s Rights Under Fire From Kabul to Texas. Finding Peace In Trying Times.

The 20th anniversary of 9/11 has now passed. Afghanistan remains a mess. The delta variant is ripping through thousands of unvaccinated lives. And there is new, looming domestic terrorism threat facing our Capitol this week.  It’s all a painful reminder that our fun, vaccinated summer of 2021 is almost over. Fall is coming in fast. And it’s definitely a time to stay vigilant. There have been 46 Presidents of the United States. There have been only 20 Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. And you’re about to hear from the best one of our lifetime.  Mike Mullen is a man who might have made a hell of a president. Mostly, because he never wanted to be one. But he’s also a man who almost became a candidate for Vice President of the United States. And not as a Republican or a Democrat, but as an independent.  Independent Americans is continuing our unique, independent focus on the most urgent threats facing America. And exploring how they’re all intertwined. And how we can pull them part--and fight them together. From 9/11, to the pandemic, to January 6th, to the debacle in Afghanistan, to the threats of domestic extremism--they’re all a test of the fabric of our nation. And they all are made worse by how badly that fabric has been weakened since 9/11.  Is 2021 America what Osama Bin Laden would have dreamed of? 650,000 Americans dead, our international reputation in shambles, our politics paralyzed, our people divided, and literally, killing each other.  Just like 20 years ago this week, we have a choice to make. Do we stand with America and a brighter future? Or do we stand with the enemies, and the darkness that will extinguish the bright glow of the shining city on the hill?  It’s another conversation that keeps it real. With tough lessons--and hard truths. The kind to help you stay vigilant. Because eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.  We’re bringing the Righteous Media 5 I’s: independence, integrity, information, inspiration and impact. We’re going from last episode with the truth from a firefighter who stood on the pile, to this episode with the truth from the admiral, The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of staff, who was the senior military leader in the Situation Room, standing behind President Obama, watching the Bin Laden raid unfold on May 1, 2011. Admiral Mullen has been America’s bodyguard. He was also the boss of every single man and woman in uniform who died in Iraq and Afghanistan. Welcome to a fireside chat with a true guardian of our democracy. An exploration of leadership--with a true patriot. A sailor, an Admiral, a warrior, a scholar...and maybe most importantly of all now, a grandfather. Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) takes you behind the scenes for candid conversations with top leaders from all backgrounds. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. You can support this show and join the community of listeners by joining our IA Patreon community. You’ll get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And you’ll help us keep speaking truth to power. Independent Americans is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. Where you can check out new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent as fall approaches. You can also watch the full conversation with the Admiral and Paul Rieckhoff here: https://youtu.be/NOhUwx28OCs  Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

132. Admiral Mike Mullen. The Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs on The Next 9/11, Gen. Milley’s Call to China, the Afghanistan Debacle. The Sept 18 Threat to Washington. Lessons Learned, Taking Accountability for Failure & Lady Gaga’s Giant Egg.

Never forget is the mantra of 9/11. It was on bumper stickers, repeated by Presidents, and hashtagged for two decades now. Twenty years later, has America forgotten?  Have we forgotten the lessons of 9/11? Have we forgotten what happened that day? Have we forgotten all that happened after? Have we forgotten about the public officials who said the air was clear at Ground Zero, the islamophobic attacks that happened across america, the rapid passage of the Patriot Act, the people snatched off streets and sent to GitMo without trail, the push for an invasion without a declaration of war, the rapid passage of the Authorization for Use of Military Force that allowed the unchecked expansion of Presidential power and the authority to conduct a forever war? Have we forgotten the unity? Have we forgotten the humanity? Have we forgotten the lessons?  From the bitter divisions around COVID, to the Capitol attack on January 6th, to the betrayal of Afghanistan, to the thousand of 9/11 first responders and survivors left alone to die from health impacts without help to this day...20 years after 9/11, it often feels like we’ve forgotten. And many in power, would like to keep it that way.  But as keepers of the 9/11 flame, our First-Responder host, Paul Rieckhoff, and his heroic guest consider it their responsibility to try to make sure America never forgets.  Host Rob Serra (@SerraRob) is a leader who can never forget. For over 10 years, he’s been one of America’s leading advocates for firefighters and first-responders. Rob was born and raised in Staten Island, NY and his first day in the field was September 11th. Along with thousands of others, he reported to the World Trade Center to help with the aftermath of the attacks. And now he’s the host of his own groundbreaking new podcast, powered by Righteous Media, called The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). It’s the hottest podcast in America, literally. The show will feature interviews with firefighters and first responders, celebrities, and the always popular and delicious Firehouse cooking segment. Everybody loves firefighters. Now they have a podcast! And Rob is joining us exclusively to share more.  Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) first hosted Rob on this show way back in Episode #2--over two years ago. And this new conversation with Rob is as moving and as real as it gets. Parts of it are hard to hear, but you shouldn’t turn away. These are the hard truths and about holding those in power accountable. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. You can support this show and join the community of listeners by joining our IA Patreon community. You’ll get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And you’ll help us keep speaking truth to power. Paul Begala called Independent Americans: “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view.” You can watch the video of this moving conversation with Rob and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders touched by 9/11 from Sarah Jessica Parker to Admiral James Starvridis; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg; Jeffrey Wright to Rachel Maddow on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent as fall approaches. You can also watch the full conversation with Rob and Paul Rieckhoff here: https://youtu.be/f9VEVyz41mA   Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

131. Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). 9/11 SPECIAL. Did America Forget? First-Responder Health Issues. The Great American Betrayal of Afghanistan. Professor Rieckhoff Goes Back to School. The Firefighters Podcast. Hockey Heroes Take Over MSG.

After 20 years, all US troops are now out of Afghanistan. Is that a good thing? Is the war really over? What happens now to our Afghan allies left behind? Will there be any accountability for failure in Washington? After gripping episodes with Matt Zeller, Jane Horton and Kristen Rouse, the newest episode is keeping our focus squarely on Afghanistan. The military pieces, media coverage, political spin, humanitarian need, the human story--we’re digging into all of what is happening right now. Our guest has been there. He’s a leader for this moment. He just returned from a controversial, unauthorized visit to Afghanistan made alongside fellow veteran and Democrat Congressman Seth Moulton. And he’ll take us inside what he saw.  Representative Peter Meijer is a freshman Republican Congressman who succeeded Republican maverick Justin Amash, in the seat representing Michigan’s 3rd district. He’s fighting for Afghans, he’s fighting partisanship, he’s fighting his own party, and he’s fighting for real change.  After high school, Peter enlisted in the Army reserves and deployed to Iraq with an intelligence unit. After returning, Peter joined Team Rubicon, a veteran-based disaster response organization led by Episode 107 Guest Jake Wood where Peter led humanitarian efforts focused on South Sudan’s refugee crisis. He also led operations in New York after Superstorm Sandy, Oklahoma after a series of tornadoes, and the Philippines after Super Typhoon Yolanda. Peter then accepted a job with a non-governmental organization in Afghanistan. He ran the NGO’s advisory operations in southern Afghanistan, managing a team to help aid workers provide relief to Afghan people. He later served as acting Deputy Director for Afghanistan, delivering emergency assistance to aid workers after kidnappings and targeted killings. Peter knows Afghanistan, knows national security, knows humanitarian work. And he knows this moment. And you need to hear what he knows. He’s fighting for Afghan allies, for accountability around failures of the last month, and for his fellow veterans. He is also fighting with his own party. He was one of only 10 Republicans in the House to vote for the impeachment of Donald Trump. And he’s fighting now to repeal the AUMF (Authorization for Use of Military Force), for the truth inside what happened on the January 6th insurrection--and for the soul of the Republican party.   Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) has known Peter for over a decade. He digs deep with Pete and breaks down the latest news from a truly independent viewpoint. It’s a bold and blunt perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. You can support this show and join the community of listeners by joining our IA Patreon community. You’ll get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And you’ll help us keep speaking truth to power. Paul Begala called Independent Americans: “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view.” You can watch the video of this conversation with Rep. Peter Meijer and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Admiral James Starvridis; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg; Jeffrey Wright to Rachel Maddow on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent as fall approaches. You can also watch the full conversation with Peter and Paul Rieckhoff here: https://youtu.be/PNSFlbKei5M  Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

130. Congressman Peter Meijer. THE END OF THE AFGHANISTAN WAR? Not for the Afghans. 13 US Troops Killed. Our Allies Left to Die. Biden Spikes the Ball. The Great American Betrayal of Afghanistan. Is the Future of the GOP Peter Meijer or Donald Trump?

We’ve all seen the disturbing images of thousands of people scrambling to get out of the Karzai Airport in Afghanistan. Who will live? Who will die? Who is making it onto American planes? And who is not? What the hell is really happening on the ground?  Independent Americans continues our unique focus on the collapse of Afghanistan with an urgent new conversation with an inspiring American leader who’s working night and day to save lives. Army Veteran and humanitarian Kristen Rouse is leading “Digital Dunkirk.” A make-shift army of people all across America that are rushing to help Afghans navigate bureaucracy, avoid the Taliban, and find a golden airplane slot to safety. Kristen is a renowned national voice for veterans, LGBTQ people, refugees and all humanity. She has been working non-stop for weeks to save as many Afghan allies as possible. She takes us inside the makeshift command center inside her home--as she works in real-time to save her own Afghan interpreter and others. Kristen is another conscience for America that will break down why all the latest news is about so much more than Afghanistan. This is a fast-paced pod that will show you the sides you won’t see on cable news. It’ll help you understand the ground truth, avoid the spin, and understand what’s really happening. You’ll also get a deeper look into the policy failures, military challenges and humanitarian needs--and hear why Biden’s new August 31st pull-out date may be a death warrant for thousands.  Kristen Rouse (@TrueBoots) is one the most important veteran and national security advocates in America. She has served in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and Army National Guard for more than 23 years. She served in Afghanistan in for a combined 31 months with roles including mission planning for resupply convoys to remote combat outposts in eastern Afghanistan and working directly with the Afghan National Army. As a civilian, she has created regional and citywide logistics plans and programs for NYC’s Office of Emergency Management. Her experiences following her third tour of duty led her to found the NYC Veterans Alliance. Kristen continues to serve in the US Army Reserves and on the Board of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). She also teaches literature and writing as an adjunct professor and has been featured in The New York Times, New York Post, Daily Beast, CNN, MSNBC, NPR and more. Our host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) explores it all with Kristen, and breaks down the latest with a unique focus on national security, media coverage, and the political dynamics from a truly independent viewpoint. It’s a fresh perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. Be a part of the solution. Get exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent this summer. Paul Begala called Independent Americans: “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view.” You can also watch the video of this conversation with Kristen and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Admiral James Starvridis; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg; Jeffrey Wright to Rachel Maddow on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us.  You can also watch the full conversation with Kristen and Paul Rieckhoff here: https://youtu.be/pBA4EbgXQZ0.    Stay vigilant, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

129. Kristen Rouse. CHAOS IN AFGHANISTAN. Inside the “Digital Dunkirk” Rushing to Save Afghan Allies. The Taliban Clamps Down. The Humanity of the Afghan People. Questioning The Humanity of America. What Happens after Biden’s August 31st Deadline?

As Afghanistan continues to spiral into a humanitarian disaster, Americans have been riveted by the events unfolding, US troops are going back in, and the President has finally appeared in public to address the chaos. It’s all getting worse fast. There are many questions. And many voices. But there is one vital group that you probably haven’t heard from. Until now.  How would you feel right now if someone you loved was killed in Afghanistan? What if your son, your daughter, your brother, your mother--died in Afghanistan. How would you feel as the country spirals into chaos? How do 2,443 military families that have lost a loved one in Afghanistan since 9/11 feel right now? You’re about to find out. Thiers is a voice that we haven’t heard. Until now. In this episode, you’ll hear from one of the most powerful among those voices. A true American hero, Jane Horton. Her 26-year-old husband, Army Specialist Christopher Horton, was killed in Afghanistan in 2011. Gold star wife Jane Horton (@JaneMHorton) has been through the worst of it. And after experiencing the unimaginable loss firsthand, she has made helping others her purpose in life. She’s a true helper. And a conscience for America after 20 years of war in the place where her husband died.  Jane is one of the most influential voices for Gold Star families in America. She’s fought for them in America--and also visited Afghanistan numerous times to support families of the fallen there. She’s advised Presidents from both sides of the aisle and currently served as a Senior Advisor in the Office of the Secretary of Defense in the Pentagon--leading efforts to advance warfighter brain health and Gold Star family initiatives. She’s also served as the Congressional and Military Liaison for the Embassy of Afghanistan in Washington D.C. She’s dedicated her life to helping others and she can help you understand as we all struggle to process what is happening on the ground in Afghanistan. Host, national security and political analyst and Army veteran Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) explores this side of the story with Jane, and breaks down the latest with a unique focus on national security, media coverage, and the political dynamics from a truly independent viewpoint. It’s a fresh, independent perspective you won’t find anywhere else on the media landscape. Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent as summer winds down. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” -That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch the video of this conversation with Jane and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Admiral James Starvridis; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg; Jeffrey Wright to Rachel Maddow on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And stay vigilant, America.  You can also watch the full conversation with Jane Horton and Paul Rieckhoff here: https://youtu.be/0YAIyCAukAc               Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

128. DISASTER IN AFGHANISTAN. Jane Horton. How Do Families of Fallen Troops Feel? The Gold Star Families Perspective From A Wife Who Lost Her Husband There. What Happens to Women Under Taliban Rule? Saving Our Translators. Biden’s Blundering Betrayal.

As American troops pull out of Afghanistan, the Taliban is advancing. Quickly. Violence is widespread. And tens of thousands of men and women who helped US efforts there are facing imminent danger. The numbers are shocking. 20,000 of our allies and thousands more of their family members are facing slaughter. It’s a terrible and disgraceful betrayal of our allies. And the ramifications will impact our national security forever. But what’s the real situation on the ground? How bad could it get? What should Biden do now? What can we do to help from here? Our intrepid host, Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) breaks down the national security components, the media coverage, and the political dynamics from a truly independent viewpoint. And we’re joined by the heroic Matt Zeller (@mattczeller). Matt is America’s leading voice on the issue. The courageous Co-Founder of No One Left Behind, Truman National Security Fellow and author of Watches Without Time: An American Soldier in Afghanistan joins host and fellow Army veteran Rieckhoff for a gripping conversation that goes deeper and hits harder than anything you’ll hear anywhere else. Matt knows first-hand what it’s like to have fought alongside these brave men and women. He’ll tell you how after a ferocious firefight in Afghanistan, one saved his life. And became his best friend. Now, they’ve made it their mission to save the lives of others who have been left behind. It’s as real as it gets—and this conversation will leave you better informed and better prepared in the coming months as events unfold.  Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent as summer winds down. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” -That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch the video of this conversation with Matt and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And stay vigilant, America.  Watch the full conversation here: https://youtu.be/C1I8I6aSg8A       Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

127. Matt Zeller. The Collapse of Afghanistan. Biden Is Blowing It. #SaveOurAllies. The Guam Option. Why The Taliban Don’t Want Women to Read. Asian Jumping Dirt. How You Can Help.

It’s August and it’s hot. And getting hotter. Things are heating up everywhere. From the Delta virus spreading like a wildfire, to the real wildfires burning down the West, to all firefights across a crumbling Afghanistan, to the Olympics burning up our screens as World Records are torched daily. It’s as hot as it gets right now. And of course we can’t forget the dumpster fire that burns perpetually in Washington D.C. as a memorial to our failed political parties. But we like to keep it cool here. We stay frosty. We’re bringing light, not heat. And this episode is no different. It’s a flashback to July, 2019 and Episode 16 with Soledad O’Brien. It’s a fun, witty and thought provoking conversation that explores the intersection of sports, politics, race and the media--perfect as the Olympics roll on. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this Gold medal winner again.  From Episode 16 - July, 2019: Racism is ripping American apart right now. As President Trump doubles-down on his Tweets, and the parties remain deeply divided, Army veteran and renowned activist @PaulRieckhoff breaks it all down from a unique perspective. He adds light to all the heat and brings the 4 I’s: integrity, information, impact and inspiration--and explores the history, the bigger picture and the way forward. He digs into the urgently important stories in the news you missed--like the troubling leadership situation at the Pentagon and the contentious Senate hearings this week focused on the potential new Secretary of Defense. And the latest on the First for 9/11 First Responders support. And we sit down for a candid, firey and fun conversation with media powerhouse Soledad O’Brien (@SoledadOBrien). She drops bombs on Trump and the media--and drops knowledge on politics and race relations in America. Soledad is fresh off hosting a BET forum with 4 of the candidates for President and makes a surprising whiskey choice. It’s a timely, real and inspiring conversion that takes you behind the scenes of the highest levels of media and politics. Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent as summer winds down. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” -That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch the video of this conversation with Soledad and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And stay vigilant, America.  Watch the full conversation here: https://youtu.be/BN7fUnklluc   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

126. Simone Biles Wins Beyond Tokyo. A Fourth Capitol Hill Police Officer Dies By Suicide. The Afghanistan Implosion Continues. Soledad O’Brien (REPLAY). Trump The Racist. Senator Rand Paul SUCKS. Fireball Whiskey and Riding Horses.

As the dream of a “Hot Vax Summer” starts to look more and more like a Delta nightmare, Rieckhoff breaks down the historic, infuriating January 6th Congressional hearings. And, he rips into the haters attacking Olympic great Simon Biles’ toughness and patriotism.  And we’re taking a look back to the very first days of the pandemic. It’s a fan favorite and one of ours too. We flash back to March 5, 2020 and come to you from deep in the heart of the legendary NBC 30 Rock building in New York as Paul joined the MSNBC’s dynamic Stephanie Ruhle—as she took a quick break from between news segments and the markets began to react to the news of the pandemic. They also dig into the presidential race at the time, traffic, parenthood, and Stephanie’s unlikely path into a life in the media. And there may have been some tequila.  If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From Episode 49 - March 5, 2020: With the 2020 race upended, the stock market disrupted, and the Fed drastically dropping interest rates, NBC News Senior Business Correspondent Stephanie Ruhle (@SRuhle) breaks it all down from the inside. And she sharply analyzes the spectacular collapse of Mike Bloomberg’s campaign from the perspective of someone who worked for him. This candid and fun conversation gives you insights into the mind and life of a charismatic leader who overcame tremendous adversity to rise to the top of business and political media. Uncensored and unscripted, the former homecoming queen, turned Wall Street derivatives trader, turned cable TV anchor, shares how she juggles work as a mother of three, the values her mother taught her that fuel her success, and why she loves tequila.  Ruhle is a dedicated philanthropist, a media trailblazer, a champion for the underdog — and a fantastically fun person to hang out with. The former anchor of MSNBC Live with Stephanie Ruhle and Velshi & Ruhle, Ruhle was also managing editor and news anchor for Bloomberg Television and editor-at-large for Bloomberg News. She’s an advocate for a number of important causes including the Corporate Investment Bank (CIB) Women's Network, Women on Wall Street (WOWS) and Girls, Inc--nonprofit organization that encourages all girls to be "Strong, Smart, and Bold" through direct service and advocacy.  Stephanie Ruhle is another important, inspiring and iconic American success story that embodies what this pod is all about. After earning a coveted spot on the trading floor of a male-dominated Wall Street firm, she used her wits and unstoppable determination to dominate the playing field -- eventually graduating to the forefront of broadcasting in cable network news. This episode is a handbook on how she’s done it. Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” -That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this conversation with Stephanie and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And stay vigilant, America.  Watch the full conversation here: https://youtu.be/qq2sjPyDIAg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

125. The January 6th Hearings. Terrorists vs Heroes. Simone Biles Under Attack. GUEST: STEPHANIE RUHLE (REPLAY). Fed Rates and Coronavirus. Mastering AP Calculus AND Spring Break. Roses and Thorns. Tequila Turns You Up To 11. Effort is Everything.

As summer continues, we’re sharing some of the best moments and guests from over two years of inspiring shows. Ambassador Susan Rice, General Barry McCaffrey, General Mark Hertling, Admiral James Stavridis, and former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel. This best of episode takes a look back with some of our country’s top leaders to explore the lessons they learned while serving at the highest levels—facing the highest stakes. It’s a master class on leadership you don’t want to miss. If you’ve never heard these conversations, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll dig hearing these gems again. It’s a perfect pod for that summer drive, that walk in the woods, or that day on the beach.  Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out our cool and comfy IA merch to get yourself some great summer gear that matters. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” -That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of more than 100 important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. And stay vigilant, America.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

124. Best Of: Lessons On Leadership. Susan Rice, Barry McCaffrey, Mark Hertling, James Stavridis, Chuck Hagel. Top Military and Political Leaders on Independent Politics, America’s Future, Duty, Honor, Service and Leadership.

As America emerges from the pandemic and summer begins, we’re sharing some of the best from our archives. It’s a look back to before the pandemic. And it is a fun one. Samantha Bee joined Paul back on October 17, 2019 for one of our most popular episodes ever. If you’ve never heard this episode, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a long time listener, you’ll enjoy hearing this gem again.  From October 17, 2019: This episode is really fun. And important. Samantha Bee (@iamsambee) has taken on the rich, the powerful, the crooked and the wrong. She’s been a voice for the voiceless. And a true patriot. After 12 legendary years at The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, the trailblazing comedian, writer and producer launched her own groundbreaking satirical news show on TBS. Full Frontal with Samantha Bee (@FullFrontalSamBee) debuted in 2016. And with the launch, Sam became the first woman to host a late-night satire show.  She was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine, her show has won an Emmy, she’s battled Bill O’Reilly, and in 2017 hosted "Not the White House Correspondents' Dinner". Sam’s always squared the circle from TV into political and social impact and created on-ramps into politics for millions. In 2017, her "Nasty Woman Shirt" campaign raised over $1 million for Planned Parenthood and now she’s launching a new app to gamify the primary process.  Host and Iraq Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) leads a conversation with Sam and takes Angry Americans (@AngryAmericans) into the powerful place where comedy and activism intersect. It’s a hilarious, moving and candid conversation that takes you deep inside the world of comedy, satire, politics and television. Sam shares stories of life inside the early days of The Daily Show--and through a personal life journey that has taken her from working as a waitress in Toronto, to becoming an American citizen, to challenging three Presidents. She also breaks down the latest Debate of Democratic candidates, Trump’s abandonment of the Kurds and shares her very first car. And Paul rips into Trump’s betrayal of our troops, Le Bron James’ China comments and the latest on America’s electric scooter invasion.  Be a part of the solution. Join us for exclusive access and events by joining our Patreon community. Get access to events, guests, merch discounts, and exclusive content. And check out the new IA merch to hook up your favorite independent dad ahead of Father’s Day next month. “What all political pods ought to be: fun, engaging, freewheeling, and respectful - even welcoming- of different points of view. I’m a fan.” -That’s what political strategist Paul Begala called Independent Americans, You can also watch video of this show with Samantha and more than 100 other important, inspiring and iconic leaders from Sarah Jessica Parker to Meghan McCain; Stephen Colbert to Pete Buttigieg on the Righteous YouTube page. Independent Americans connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.IndependentAmericans.us. You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/LDkz1O5TU6w And stay vigilant, America.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

123. Samantha Bee. Dog Days of Summer Special (Rewind). The Kurds, Democrat Debates. The Daily Show Reunion Tour. Fighting Back With Comedy. Djibouti and Naugahyde.

If you’re not angry, you’re not paying attention. The state of affairs in our country has made us all Angry Americans. But it’s righteous, justifiable, vigilant anger. An anger that drives positive change. The anger that started the American Revolution and drove the Civil Rights movement. In times of national distress, it’s our anger that can unite and inspire us all. Your host is Paul Rieckhoff. He’s a fighter, a patriot, and an independent political and media force to be reckoned with. After serving as a soldier in Iraq in 2004, Rieckhoff emerged as one of the most dynamic political and social leaders in America. In every episode, he breaks down the most important issues facing our country. And he interviews the most influential and compelling people. He’s taking on Republicans, Democrats—and everyone in between. If you’re in the angry middle, Angry Americans reminds you that you’re not alone. We’re all in this together. Join the Angry Americans movement and subscribe now. Produced by Righteous Media.

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Angry Americans with Paul Rieckhoff

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