• 374. Venezuela Boat Strikes are Trump’s WMD. Vets Week Wrap Up: Democrats Falling for Trump’s Headfakes. 70% of Americans Don’t Want War with Venezuela. End of an Era - MSNBC Becomes MSNow. Football Friday, Jameis Winston and Thanksgiving is Coming!
    Nov 15 2025
    Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) wraps a tense, emotional Veterans Week with a no-holds-barred, guest-free episode—breaking down urgent national security issues, political accountability, and the looming prospect of military conflict in Venezuela. Drawing from his week traveling, deep connections to the veteran community, and decades of political activism and media, Paul brings listeners a timely, candid front-line analysis you won’t hear anywhere else. From Congress’s inaction to shifting Pentagon transparency, the historic changes at 30 Rock, and Football Friday picks for the weekend, this episode is classic IA. Whether reflecting on past Veterans Days or warning about the costs of new wars, Paul’s message is one that will leave you informed, inspired and prepared for whatever comes next. Because 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 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. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -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 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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    21 mins
  • 373. On Venezuela: Show Me the Dope with Henry Rollins. The Cost of War and the Power of Art. The Fight for the Soul of America. Don’t Mess with Banksy. The Wisdom of Bob. Lessons from Walter Reed and the USO. What Losing the East Wing Really Represents.
    Nov 13 2025
    We’re back with part two of Paul Rieckhoff’s (@PaulRieckhoff) epic conversation with punk rock icon, activist, and truth-teller Henry Rollins in this raw, urgent, and fiercely independent discussion of the true cost of war, creative protest, and the power of showing up. From the lessons of helping injured veterans to finding hope through art and community, Henry pulls no punches as he shares his experience, challenges the powerful, and reflects on his years supporting those who serve. Rollins and Rieckhoff dissect America’s current crises—from Venezuela and new wars to the attacks on creativity and the White House Rose Garden—offering insight, humor, and a roadmap for staying vigilant and human in hard times. It’s an electrifying episode that embodies punk spirit, compassion, and relentless determination. Because 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 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. -Listen to Henry’s previous appearance: Episode 47 from February 20, 2020. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -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 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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 mins
  • 372. It’s Time To Bring Back Punk Rock with Henry Rollins. A Constant State of Protest. I Hate the Division. Like a Vial of Nitro. Following Joan Jett into a Hot Zone. Minor Threat, Fugazi and How Punk Rock Fought Nazis. Henry on Fetterman’s Wardrobe.
    Nov 12 2025
    We’ve got a special Veterans Week treat for this episode as Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) welcomes back legendary artist, activist, and punk rock icon Henry Rollins for a fiercely honest conversation about division in America, the state of democracy, and the enduring need for vigilance. From stories of Rollins's global travels to his reflections on what it truly means to be punk—and patriotic—in 2025, you’ll get an unfiltered look into his mindset, leadership, and hard-earned lessons from decades on the front lines of culture and activism. They tackle everything from current headlines to personal discipline, empathy, and standing up to extremism. Rieckhoff and Rollins dissect Trump, Fetterman, Venezuela, and how music, community, and the spirit of inclusion can battle America’s most toxic divisions. Whether you’re a first-time listener or a devoted fan, this is a masterclass in punk rock citizenship and independent values. Because 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 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. -Listen to Henry’s previous appearance: Episode 47 from February 20, 2020. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Listen to Henry’s radio show at HenryRollins.com or on KCRW. -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 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 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/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • 371. Kristen Rouse. This Veterans Day Feels Different. Beyond the Parades. IHOP, Bloomin’ Onions & Free Stuff. A Rare Day of Unity in America. Are Vets Now in the Rear View? Teaching our Kids About All of This. Independent Veterans are Ready to Lead.
    Nov 11 2025
    On this special Veterans Day episode, Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) sits down with renowned veterans advocate Kristen Rouse for a candid, timely, and moving conversation. With honesty and heart, Paul and Kristen break down how Veterans Day 2025 feels different—exploring the evolving challenges, divisions, threats, and opportunities facing America’s veterans and those who support them. From celebrations at the NYC Veterans Day Parade to the hard truths about shrinking attention and support for veterans nationwide, this episode goes deep on community, service, powerful vulnerability, and resilient leadership. And, explores what it all means for our kids and grandkids as a teaching tool. There’s no better show to explore Veterans Day than one of the rare few hosted by a veteran. Because 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 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. -Listen to Kristen’s previous appearance: Episode 129 from August 26, 2021. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and join us for our IVA Winners Circle Virtual Townhall 11/11 from 9pm-10pm ET. -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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    45 mins
  • 370. General Mark Hertling. Dissecting The Democrat Shutdown Strategy. Veterans Week Special: Why Hegseth and Trump Are Firing So Many Generals. Why We Need 1M Drones. Army Women’s Hoops, Referee Role Models and Rieckhoff Gets a Super Bowl Ring.
    Nov 10 2025
    Retired U.S. Army General Mark Hertling returns for a must-hear conversation with host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff), just in time for Veterans Day and the Marine Corps birthday. As America faces political gridlock, rising division, a historic government shutdown, and critical questions about military readiness, Gen. Hertling offers hard-hitting analysis and real-world leadership lessons that matter now more than ever. Dive deep into the state of American values, why leadership and character still count, the collapse and comeback potential of the Democrats, and why drone warfare—and the Pentagon’s internal purges—matter to all of us. Plus: Paul and the General break down the most important under-covered stories in Washington and around the world, from Venezuela military action to Ukraine’s frontline tactics with drones, with candor and context you won’t get anywhere else. Hertling opens up about his new book, “If I Don’t Return: A Father’s War Journal,” and shares powerful, personal stories about combat, family, teaching, and character that inspire—and challenge—listeners at every level. Because 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 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. -Listen to General Hertling’s previous appearance: Episode 72 from August 13, 2020. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Pre-order a signed first edition of the General’s new book. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates–including two that won last night. -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 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/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    57 mins
  • 369. Joy Taylor. Things are F**king Hard Right Now. Sports & Politics Collide Again. Mental Health, Suicide & Sadness. How Trump Uses Sports Culture. Football Friday: Is Anyone in the NFL Great? Shutdown Cancels NFL Veterans Day. Football Saved My Life.
    Nov 7 2025
    Independent Americans host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) welcomes back the dynamic, outspoken sports and culture powerhouse Joy Taylor (@joytaylortalks) for a raw, timely, and uplifting Football Friday. In an America buffeted by division, a government shutdown, and mounting mental health struggles, Joy and Paul unpack the meaning behind vulnerability, authenticity, sports as society’s mirror, and the persistent magic of hope. With candid reflections on personal mental health journeys, the identity crisis gripping American culture, and why moments of community—like football—matter more than ever, Joy shares her most real perspectives yet. She’s spent her life in and around sports–with her brother, Hall of Famer Jason Taylor, and now her nephew, Jet’s rookie Tight End, Mason Taylor. She’s been there, lived it and seen it all. And she is not holding back. From toxic masculinity and the sports-political divide, to the intersection of activism and art, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking light amidst the chaos. And looking to better understand the deep and daily connection and collision points between our politics and our beloved sports. They dig into top sports, politics and culture intersection headlines including Cowboys Defensive End Marshawn Kneeland’s tragic apparent suicide this week at age 24 that has rocked the NFL, the NBA gambling scandal, Mamdani’s popularity with young people, Trump’s manipulation of the sports manosphere, and which athletes are speaking out and might even run for political office. And like on every Football Friday, Paul and Joy are making college and NFL picks! And, they break down the Biggest Little Game in America: Amherst vs Williams–and why it’s about much more than sports. End an exhausting week of politics and start your weekend off right. This is a touchdown of content for your fall Friday. Because 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. Its 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. -Watch Joy’s previous appearance: Episode 67 from July 8, 2020. And follow Joy on social media and support her work at Joy Taylor Media including the Two Personal podcast. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates–including two that won last night. -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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 368. Jim VandeHei. Venezuela War Powers Act Vote. Can Congress Finally Stop Trump on Something? The Shutdown Slams Vets & National Security. Axios Leadership Lessons Learned. Being a Good Leader. Diaper Diplomacy, Fatherhood & 6 Rules for the Modern Man.
    Nov 6 2025
    Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) welcomes dynamic, influential and highly-successful (yet humble) Axios CEO Jim VandeHei (@JimVandeHei) for an unfiltered look at the election aftermath, democracy’s crossroads, and how Americans can reclaim control from broken institutions and divisive algorithms. And they also dig into the potential expansion of Trump’s military strikes on Venezuela, whether a vote this week from Congress on a War Powers Act bill can stop him, and how the government shutdown is hitting the Pentagon dangerously and especially hard. Whether discussing congressional failures, presidential overreach, what it means to be a modern man, or how to “clean up your algorithm” for sanity and truth, Jim delivers candid advice and hope for a more resilient America. Packed with moments of wisdom on leadership, service, patriotism, and the media's future, this episode is a must for independent thinkers everywhere.​ Because 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. Its 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. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Follow Jim VandeHei on social media and support his work at Axios. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates–including two that won last night. -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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    45 mins
  • 367. Sami Sage. Mamdani Wins. And So Does Trump. Divided America Divides Even Deeper. The Far Left’s Moment Overshadows Big Wins by Women Vets Sherrill and Spanberger. Zohran’s NYPD Problem. Prop 50 Passes. Betches, Sabrina Carpenter and Coffee.
    Nov 5 2025
    Whew. It’s the day after Election Day. And we all probably feel a little hung over. It was an emotional day/month/year. But it’s finally over. And on this day after, as the dust settles and the partisan spin begins, we’ve got a pod to help you cut through the corporate and partisan media and propaganda and better understand what the hell just happened. It’s moments like this especially when independent media is critical. Grab a cup of coffee (or three), close a few things on your phone, and watch the latest episode of the independent show you can trust to help you understand what that hell just happened–and what’s next. Your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) is joined by Sami Sage–cofounder and Chief Creative Officer of Betches Media, news and culture analyst, entrepreneur, media powerhouse, podcaster and lover of pop music. They analyze Mamdani’s closer-than-projected victory, his fiery acceptance speech and frontal attack on Trump, how it’s him vs the establishment and moderates for the future of the Democratic Party, and why it’s all so much bigger than New York City. Sami and Paul also focus on the historic victories by two Democrat women vets for Governor: Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey and Abigail Spanberger in Virginia, the failures of Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, the impact of independent voters, and two things that are really good to end a chaotic time. Because 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. Its 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. -WATCH video of this episode on YouTube now. -Check out Sami’s Morning Announcements podcast and social media and the Betches website. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates–including two that won last night. -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 Ways to watch: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@independentamericans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/indy_americans BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/indyamericans.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAmericansUS/ Ways to listen:Social channels: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr