The Thanksgiving Mailbag Episode

Amy is joined by author and former U.S Department of Homeland Security appointee under both Bush and Trump, Miles Taylor. Their conversation delves into the complexities of U.S. national security strategies – or lack thereof, the implications of military actions in Venezuela and also, did you know we're pirates now? Additionally, they also touch on the economic motivations behind Trump's foreign policy decisions, the impact of tariffs on American farmers, and the pervasive corruption in Washington.    Chapters  00:00 Holiday Preparations and Personal Reflections 01:32 Understanding National Security Strategies 05:07 The Shift in U.S. Foreign Policy 08:39 The Role of Allies and Adversaries 12:06 The Implications of Military Actions 16:54 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Warfare 21:44 The Ineffectiveness of Current Drug Policies 25:47 The Venezuela Dilemma: War or Diplomacy? 29:53 Economic Consequences of Trump's Policies 34:27 The Illusion of Government Support for Farmers 40:22 Corruption and the Abuse of Power 47:21 The Case for Term Limits in Congress      About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

This week, Amy speaks with the Sisters Of Loretto, an American Catholic religious community founded in Kentucky in 1812. The participants discussed the meaning of the common good, the role of government in ensuring safety and housing, and the importance of environmental justice. They also reflect on the current administration's policies, the broader understanding of pro-life, and the need for community engagement and acts of hope in the face of societal challenges.   Chapters :   00:00 Faith and Public Policy: An Introduction 02:25 The Sisters of Loretto: History and Mission 05:20 Understanding the Common Good 07:42 Immigration and the Role of Government 09:58 The Complexity of Immigration Policies 12:49 Environmental Justice and Future Generations 15:01 The Interconnectedness of People and Earth 17:26 The Role of Policy in Protecting Communities 19:48 Reflections on the Current Administration 21:54 Pro-Life: A Broader Perspective 24:37 Final Thoughts and Call to Action   About Truth in the Barrel:  Amy McGrath is a military veteran, political junkie, and whiskey lover who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.  Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon. Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

This week, Amy is joined by former Republican talk radio host, Joe Walsh. They discuss Hegseth's controversial orders to kill over 80 people on the high seas, the attack on Democrats who remind the military of their oath, and the dangers of our current media ecosystem. Also, where is the happiest place on earth and why isn't it The United States Of America?  Chapters :  00:00 Political Landscape and Party Dynamics 05:50 Military Orders and Accountability 10:59 Healthcare Challenges and Education 16:08 Foreign Policy and Drug Trafficking 21:51 Media Manipulation and Public Perception 27:26 Cultural Reflections and Happiness    About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

In this conversation, Rusty Thompson, a third-generation farmer, talks to Amy about his experiences with market challenges, the impact of tariffs on soybean and beef prices, and the need for political accountability. The discussion also touches on healthcare issues in rural communities and the role of USAID in global food security.   Chapters 00:00 The Backbone of America: Farmers' Struggles 17:45 Farming: A Labor of Love and Challenges 27:01 Political Accountability and the Future of Farming  About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

  In this special Thanksgiving episode of Truth in the Barrel, hosts Amy McGrath and Executive Producer Bill Sheehy share their personal Thanksgiving traditions, favorite memories, and culinary experiences. They discuss the importance of family gatherings, the joy of cooking, and the unique experiences of celebrating Thanksgiving in the military. The episode features a surprise guest who shares her own Thanksgiving memories, and the conversation transitions into discussions about books, movies, and political insights. The hosts conclude with a fun segment inspired by the Colbert Questionnaire and express their gratitude for family, friends, and the country they live in.   Chapters   00:00 Thanksgiving Traditions and Bourbon Cheers 05:26 Family Memories and Thanksgiving Preparations 10:16 Surprise Guest: A Mother's Thanksgiving Reflections 15:36 Thanksgiving in the Military: A Unique Experience 20:32 Books, History, and Personal Stories 25:33 Pop Culture: Movies, Music, and Comfort 30:42 Advice for the Next Generation 35:06 The Colbert Questionnaire: Fun and Personal Insights 38:46 Gratitude and Closing Thoughts       About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

In this episode, Amy speaks with Geoff Duncan. He shares his journey from being a collegiate athlete and minor league baseball player to becoming a prominent political figure in Georgia. He discusses his courageous stand against Donald Trump's election lies, his transition from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party, and his commitment to addressing critical issues such as healthcare, gun control, and abortion rights.   Chapters :   00:00 From Sports to Politics: A Unique Journey 09:36 Standing Up To Trump's Election Lies 16:39 Evolving Perspectives: A Journey of Change 20:31 Healthcare Crisis: A Central Issue 21:52 Finding Balance: Family and Politics     About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Geoff Duncan Official Site: https://www.duncanforgeorgia.com/     Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

In this episode, Amy speaks with Lieutenant General Ben Hodges about the critical role of alliances in global security, particularly in the context of NATO and U.S. military readiness. He emphasizes the importance of intelligence sharing among allies and the need for military exercises to maintain operational effectiveness. The discussion also touches on the challenges posed by Russia and China, the significance of supporting Ukraine, and the evolving role of women in the military. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted discussion about the Army-Navy football rivalry, highlighting the camaraderie and tradition within the military community.   Chapters :   00:00 The Importance of Alliances in Global Security 02:55 Challenges to NATO and American Leadership 05:48 Intelligence Sharing and Military Readiness 09:11 The Impact of Military Exercises on National Security 11:57 Current Global Threats and American Strategy 14:51 The Role of Congress in Military Actions 17:44 Women in the Military: Progress and Challenges 21:03 The Future of Military Engagement and Strategy 23:53 Reflections on Military Leadership and Ethics 26:44 Personal Experiences in the Military 29:39 The Army-Navy Football Rivalry   About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

In this episode, Amy sits down with Kentucky soybean farmer Jim Wade to talk about how the ongoing trade war with China is hitting America's heartland. From skyrocketing equipment costs to disappearing export markets, Jim shares how chaotic tariff policies and political dysfunction are threatening the survival of small family farms. We also dive into the ripple effects on healthcare, immigrant labor, and Kentucky's broader economy — from soybeans to bourbon.     About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast  

We all woke up to the news that President Trump wants to begin testing our nuclear weapons again, something we haven't done since 1992. He claims other countries are testing theirs. How much does he really understand about our nuclear program or anyone else's for that matter. Amy is joined by the Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Joel Rubin to talk about this and more!   About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast

Today we're taking an UNFILTERED look at what is no doubt a new nuclear moment in American history. Do our allies still trust us? What is the current administration doing to further nuclear nonproliferation? Amy speaks with Adam Scheinman, former Special Representative of the President for Nuclear Nonproliferation within the Bureau of International Security at the State Department about the current state of our nuclear affairs.   About Truth in the Barrel: Amy and Denver are both military veterans, political junkies, and whiskey lovers who sit on opposite sides of the aisle but have one thing in common: they love the United States of America.   Truth in the Barrel was born of Amy & Denver's commitment to country, the Constitution, and a well-curated collection of the world's finest bourbon.   Join them weekly for deep dives into timely topics, interviews with recognizable guests, and a dose of call-in fun.   Visit Our Website: www.TruthintheBarrel.com   Subscribe to Truth in the Barrel: https://www.youtube.com/@TruthIntheBarrel   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JQcSj5mwVyGDJ8DcXwlu9?si=5f2bd1d1b0c64e6f   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-in-the-barrel/id1804092329   Instagram, BlueSky, Facebook, TikTok: @TruthintheBarrel   Visit Our Substack : https://substack.com/@truthinthebarrelpodcast