Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff

• Episode 351. Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). The Annual 9/11 Show. 2025: Has American Forgotten? The Stories, The Heroes, The Controversies, The Politicization, The Never Ending Fight For Healthcare, And The Mission To Teach The Next Generation.

  If you’ve listened to this show over the years, chances are that you’ve heard our guest. If you haven’t, get ready for a solid dose of the straight up good stuff. Rob Serra (@SerraRob) is back for the annual 9/11 episode and this one hits hard. Host and founder Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) was there at Ground Zero on 9/11. So was Rob. It was famously his first day on the job. Yes, you read that right, his first day as a New York City firefighter was Tuesday, September 11th, 2001.  They didn’t meet then, but they were both there and it’s played a massive role in their lives and indeed in the lives of every American. If you weren’t alive then, it’s hard to explain how much the world has changed as a result (more on that in the podcast). But they were there. In the middle of all of the destruction. And listening to them discuss what happened then and what has happened since can teach us all about what it means to be an American— the good and the bad. And as the country experiences the staggering effects of more political violence, and seems more divided than ever, this is a conversation everyone needs to listen to and absorb. It's a gut-check on a nation grappling with its past and its future. It's a raw, authentic conversation about service, sacrifice, and the enduring fight for those who ran toward the fire and the driving call behind why we must always stay vigilant. Every episode of Independent Americans with Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) 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.  Go Deeper: Hear Paul’s full conversation with Rob Serra from Episode 2 of Independent Americans. Hear Rob’s full conversation with Richard Naviasky from Episode 1 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). Hear Rob’s full conversation with Joseph Cammarata from Episode 2 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). Hear Rob’s full conversation with Al Barry from Episode 15 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). Hear Rob’s full conversation with Lila Nordstrom from Episode 14 of The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.). -WATCH video of Paul and Rob’s conversation. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates.  -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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• 350. Dean Kamen (Replay). Inventing iBOTs, Segways and Scooters. The Wheelchair of the Future. Inside DARPA. Using Robots To Build Kids. Revenge of the Nerds.

  We’ve got one last look back before we plunge into the future. This week we’re taking it way, way back to Episode 26 with the amazing inventor Dean Kamen. From Episode 26 - September 26, 2019: Dean Kamen is one of the greatest inventors of our time. He invented the Segway, the first drug infusion pump, and the Slingshot–a water purification device that requires no filters, can turn almost any kind of water into drinking water and can operate using cow dung as fuel. He also invented the LUKE (Life Under Kinetic Evolution) prosthetic arm for the Department of Defense’s DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency). And now, Dean has invented invented a revolutionary all-terrain electric wheelchair known as the iBOT. He rode to our interview with your host Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) on the newest version that he unveiled to the world this week in New York–and shares why it can change history not just for the disabled and wounded veterans–but for everyone. Like all our guests, Dean Kamen is an iconic, important and inspiring American. One who’s shaped what America has been in the past, is in the present, and more than any other guest we’ve had so far, he’s shaping the future. One of Dean’s proudest accomplishments is founding FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), an organization dedicated to motivating the next generation to understand, use and enjoy science and technology. This year FIRST® will serve more than 1 million young people, ages 6 to 18, in more than 86 countries. High-school-aged participants were eligible for more than $50 million in scholarships from over 200 leading colleges, universities, and corporations. Dean Kamen was Elon before Elon. But not all messed up. He’s a much better person, he’s a much better creator, he’s a much better visionary and most importantly he’s a helper. -WATCH video of Paul and Dean’s conversation. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates.  -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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• 349. Jeffrey Wright (Replay). Westworld and COVID19. Fighting the Virus in Brooklyn. Rallying for Restaurants. Ebola in Sierra Leone. The Slave Behind Jack Daniels Whiskey.

  Our summer break continues as we knock out our housekeeping and get things ready for a busy fall. And before we get back to all new episodes we’ve got another great look back at a favorite with the great actor Jeffrey Wright. He digs into his role on WestWorld, his time in Hollywood and the roles he loves to take on, and he shares the story of Nearest Green and what has become not only an inspiration but is also a very successful enterprise. From Episode 55 - April 16, 2020: From Angels in America to Basquiat to Syriana to Casino Royale to The Hunger Games to Boardwalk Empire to Classical Baby to Westworld. Jeffrey Wright (@JFreeWright) has played Martin Luther King Jr. and Colin Powell. He’s played artists and scientists. And he’s everyone’s favorite Host, Bernard Lowe. He’s won a Golden Globe, an Emmy, a Tony. And he’s a driven supporter of causes ranging from veterans with mental health injuries to miners in Sierra Leone.  It’s a look back at one of the greats. At a time when none of us were at our best, he showed us what it means to be the best. And a look at why he’s one of our favorites to ever appear on the show. -WATCH video of Paul and Jeffrey’s conversation. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates.  -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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• 348. Aaron Mankin (Replay). Losing Your Face in Combat. Debating Sara Huckabee Sanders in High School. How to Survive 70 Surgeries. Aaron’s Playboy Mansion Story. Scars Are Not Forever. Operation Mend. No Excuse Not to Serve.

  Our August break continues and we’re throwing it way back to Episode 34 with Aaron Mankin. A true American hero, Aaron Mankin joined Paul Rieckhoff at the Classic Car Club in New York for an incredibly powerful conversation. Having survived a catastrophic IED explosion in Iraq that left him with severe burns and countless injuries shares the story of his journey to recovery with Paul in this riveting conversation. This is about more than just survival—it's about choosing hope over despair and we’re sure it will leave you feeling inspired. Aaron’s injuries have meant he’s had to endure over 70 surgeries to reconstruct his face and body, but he’s lifting up others by turning his recovery into a mission to inspire others. He talks about the extraordinary support of Operation Mend at UCLA, a program that not only rebuilt his face but also helped restore his soul. With his trademark humor, he recalls a memorable encounter at the Playboy Mansion, where he found himself in a room with more plastic surgery than any place on Earth. It’s a masterclass in turning trauma into purpose. The importance of gratitude and service, and a unique look at how you define a leader and a patriot. His powerful message is a must-listen interview with a man who has every reason to be angry but chooses to be happy and inspire others instead. And people like that are why we built this show. -WATCH video of Paul and Aaron’s conversation. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates.  -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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• 347. David Bellavia (Replay). The Sole Living Medal of Honor Recipient of the Iraq War. Combat is Not Like The Movies. Who’s A Bigger Threat - Libertarians or Liberals? Time Does Not Heal All Wounds. Live the Life You’re Supposed to Live.

  Our throwback August continues as we go way back to Episode 33 with Paul’s fascinating conversation with the sole living Medal of Honor Recipient from the Iraq War. It’s a hell of a distinction–and a hell of a conversation. Take some time and listen to this timeless talk about war, humanity and the drive to push forward, even after horrific loss. From inside the very cool Classic Car Club in Manhattan. In a raw and powerful conversation, Paul sits down with David Bellavia, the first living Medal of Honor recipient for the Iraq War. David is a man Paul has known for years and a true American hero. But this isn't a conversation about glory and medals; it's a raw, honest discussion about the weight of sacrifice, the nature of heroism, and the deep, often painful, bonds forged in combat. Bellavia, an unapologetic conservative and proud New Yorker, doesn't shy away from the hard truths. He reflects on his time in Iraq, the emotional burden of the Medal of Honor, and the painful division among veterans that "ripped the soul" out of him.  This is a candid discussion about the complexities of a war many Americans want to forget, the burden of being a "courier" for the fallen, and the love and loyalty that truly fuel a soldier's fight. Bellavia’s perspective is a crucial reminder that at the end of the day, it’s not about politics—it's about the men and women to your left and right. And it’s good perspective and inspiration to absorb as we get into the final weeks of summer. And be sure to watch on YouTube and see Paul and David check out some classic cars!  -WATCH video of Paul and David’s conversation. -Learn more about Independent Veterans of America and all of the IVA candidates.  -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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