How do we think about history? How do we tell the story of our country? In this episode, Hillari Lombard sits down with Lindsay Graham (no, not that one)—the voice behind American History Tellers, American Scandal, and more—to talk about the accidental path that led him to podcasting, the art of storytelling in history, and how the past helps us make sense of our fractured present.

From dusty archives to dramatic vignettes, Lindsay shares how his shows turn forgotten corners of history into gripping narratives—and why stories about “normal people” are just as essential as those about presidents and wars.

What’s happening in Los Angeles right now isn’t just about immigration—it’s about power. In this episode, Hillari Lombard unpacks how a series of ICE raids spiraled into mass protests, a violent crackdown, and the unprecedented deployment of the National Guard and U.S. Marines—over the objection of California’s governor.

This isn’t a policy debate. It’s a stress test for our democracy.

This episode breaks down what triggered the protests, how Trump’s immigration tactics have escalated, and what the legal limits actually are when it comes to using military force on U.S. soil.

Links to Donate:

https://www.chirla.org

https://www.immdef.org/

This episode was informed by these sources and references:

• National Guard can stay in LA while Trump appeals ruling, court finds - CalMatters
• What U.S. law says about Trump’s deployment of active duty troops to Los Angeles | PBS News
• ICE’s tactics draw criticism as it triples daily arrest targets - Reuters

In this episode, Hillari Lombard sits down with Adam Brandon of the Independent Center to explore how independent voters reshaped the 2024 election — and what it means for the future of American politics.

They dive into why traditional party strategies are losing ground, how grassroots movements and digital media are fueling real change, and what a future beyond partisan gridlock could look like.

Adam Brandon is a longtime grassroots leader and a Senior Advisor at the Independent Center, an organization committed to empowering independent voters with common-sense solutions.

If you believe there's a better way forward, this conversation is for you.

Episode Links:

• America's Independent Center for Independent Voters