Ruthless Podcast Episode Summary: "These Are the Most American Moments Ever: July 4th with Ruthless"

Release Date: July 4, 2025

The Ruthless Podcast, hosted by Josh Holmes, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook, delivers a spirited and patriotic exploration of quintessential American moments in their July 4th episode. This long-form summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, shared memories, and reflections on iconic events that define American pride and resilience.

1. Introduction: Celebrating the Fourth of July

The hosts kick off the episode by sharing their personal fondness for Independence Day, emphasizing its significance as one of America’s favorite holidays.

• Josh Holmes [01:13]: "It's Independence Day. Happy Fourth of July to all of you. I'm Josh Holmes, along with Michael Duncan and John Ashbrook."

They reminisce about their childhood celebrations, highlighting activities like boating, grilling, and watching fireworks, which evoke a sense of nostalgia and communal joy.

• Michael Duncan [01:58]: "Yeah, it’s true. I remember one Fourth of July, we went down to southern Indiana, rented a cottage on the river, and I spent the whole 4th of July dragging a canoe down to the Ohio River into Kentucky."

2. Iconic American Moments: A Trip Down Memory Lane

The trio delves into a curated list of moments that they believe best illustrate America's finest times. They play clips and provide insightful commentary on each event.

a. NASCAR and Military Synergy

Starting with the early 90s, the hosts discuss the powerful image of Apache helicopters flying over NASCAR races, symbolizing American strength and patriotism.

• John Ashbrook [06:16]: "These are Apache helicopters flying over NASCAR rolling down the track at the exact same time. There is nothing more American than this."

• Josh Holmes [06:32]: "We’re back. I can't imagine better than a NASCAR and a Blackhawk overtop doing the full hot lap."

b. Thanksgiving Halftime Show Post-9/11

Reflecting on a unifying moment during the Gulf War era, they highlight the Thanksgiving football game and Creed's performance, which served as a balm for a nation recovering from the trauma of 9/11.

• Michael Duncan [08:55]: "One of the greatest moments in sports was that Thanksgiving halftime show... involving Creed."

• John Ashbrook [09:34]: "Every Thanksgiving is meaningful, but that one, especially in the wake of 9/11, was unforgettable."

c. The Wright Brothers and Regional Pride

A spirited debate ensues over whether North Carolina or Ohio claims the honor of the Wright Brothers’ first flight, underscoring regional pride.

• Michael Duncan [12:37]: "The flight was in North Carolina, so North Carolina is first in flight. Wilbur Wright was born in Indiana, not Ohio."

• John Ashbrook [13:27]: "North Carolina is not Ohio. The Wright brothers began in Ohio and Indiana share the title."

d. President George W. Bush’s Leadership During 9/11

The hosts praise President Bush's authentic and unifying response to the September 11 attacks, highlighting his rallying speech from the rubble of Ground Zero.

• Josh Holmes [24:04]: "The clip shows him saying, 'This nation stands with the good people of New York City...' It was an authentic moment of leadership."

• John Ashbrook [26:03]: "We were united as a country. That was so special for America."

e. Reagan’s "Tear Down This Wall" Speech

Discussing the end of the Cold War, the hosts admire Reagan's aspirational message to Gorbachev, which played a pivotal role in dismantling the Berlin Wall and symbolizing the triumph over communism.

• Michael Duncan [27:06]: "Reagan delivered an inspirational message: 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.'"

• Josh Holmes [28:33]: "It was four decades in the making, generations of Americans walking, watching cold wars develop."

f. Donald Trump’s “Fight, Fight, Fight” Moment

Analyzing Donald Trump's impassioned address during a crisis, the hosts reflect on how his words galvanized American resilience and patriotism.

• Josh Holmes [32:12]: "Donald Trump stood up and said, 'Fight, fight, fight.' It was an inspirational moment that changed many perceptions about him."

• John Ashbrook [34:05]: "Donald Trump was the right guy at the right time, similar to George Washington's leadership."

g. Iwo Jima Flag-Raising and WWII Heroism

The discussion moves to the iconic flag-raising on Iwo Jima, celebrating the bravery and sacrifices of American servicemen during World War II.

• Michael Duncan [36:34]: "The flag raising on Iwo Jima was symbolic for so many reasons."

• John Ashbrook [37:22]: "The men who were there did an awful lot to keep our country alive."

h. Moon Landing: A Human Achievement

Concluding the list, the hosts exalt the Apollo 11 Moon Landing as a pinnacle of American ingenuity and determination.

• Josh Holmes [38:43]: "Neil Armstrong's first step on the moon was a monumental moment in human history."

• John Ashbrook [38:52]: "Walter Cronkite’s emotional reaction mirrored the nation's awe and pride."

3. Personal Anecdotes: Hosts Share Their 4th of July Memories

The hosts take a moment to share their own cherished memories of Independence Day, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

• Josh Holmes [50:03]: "For me, it was all about grilling, family, food, and fun—running around in the backyard, playing games."

• Michael Duncan [50:27]: "Running around with no shoes on, playing flag football, and having fun with family was the essence of my 4th of July."

John Ashbrook emphasizes the universal appeal of fireworks and the excitement they bring to children and adults alike.

• John Ashbrook [52:35]: "Fireworks are always special. Watching kids glued to them, and then handing them sparklers so they feel accomplished—it’s wonderful."

4. Farewell to "Spaghetti"

In a heartfelt segment, the hosts bid farewell to their beloved team member, "Spaghetti," who is transitioning to the United States Senate. They share amusing anecdotes and express gratitude for his contributions.

• Josh Holmes [55:00]: "Spaghetti, come on up here. This is his last day at Ruthless."

• John Ashbrook [55:58]: "It's been an honor and a pleasure. Your mom's probably proud of you."

5. Listener Engagement: Naming Trump's Media Funded Wing

The hosts interact with their audience by reading and reacting to listener submissions on what President Trump should name the media-funded wing of his library.

• R.K. U.J. [46:26]: "President Trump's library of what's happening now, wherein friends always find out. F.A.F.O. - Friends Always Find Out."

• Ray Kaufman [47:02]: "CBS wing should be called B.S. - 'CBS'."

• Michael Sotero [47:37]: "He should just call it the Left Wing."

The hosts humorously discuss the suggestions, showcasing their playful banter and camaraderie.

• Michael Duncan [47:56]: "Imagine being the docent in that library—right wing for Trump’s history, left wing for media."

6. Closing Thoughts: American Resilience and Pride

In their concluding remarks, the hosts reflect on the themes of leadership, unity, and the enduring spirit of America. They encourage listeners to take pride in their heritage and continue celebrating the country’s achievements.

• Josh Holmes [42:13]: "We've had moments that tested our country, but we always figure it out with great leadership and ordinary people stepping up."

• Michael Duncan [41:10]: "Your ancestors rebelled against the strongest empire and put a man on the moon. Be proud to be American."

• John Ashbrook [43:28]: "Regular people inspired by leaders like Trump to do more than they think they're capable of."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Josh Holmes [07:00]: "Nothing will get you pumped up for today quite like that [Apache helicopters over NASCAR]."

• John Ashbrook [12:08]: "Magic remains to human ingenuity. Not a single electric car rolling around. It couldn’t keep up."

• Michael Duncan [28:32]: "He [Reagan] didn’t say it that way. He said it in an inspirational way. Tear down this wall."

• John Ashbrook [34:05]: "Donald Trump was the right guy at the right time, similar to George Washington's leadership."

• Michael Duncan [41:10]: "Be proud to be in America because we did all of those things."

Conclusion

The Ruthless Podcast episode on Independence Day serves as a heartfelt homage to the moments that encapsulate American excellence and unity. Through a blend of historical analysis, personal stories, and engaging discussions, Josh Holmes, Michael Duncan, and John Ashbrook deliver a rich and inspiring narrative that celebrates the enduring spirit of the United States.

Note: This summary omits advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the core discussions of the episode.