Truth in the Barrel: Launch Day | Live From Bourbon County - Episode Summary

Release Date: April 6, 2025

Hosts:

• Amy McGrath - Marine Corps Fighter Pilot, former political candidate
• Denver Riggleman - Air Force Intelligence Officer, former Congressman

Podcast Overview:
"Truth in the Barrel" is a weekly podcast where military veterans and political enthusiasts Amy McGrath and Denver Riggleman delve into pressing national issues, offering insightful discussions backed by their extensive backgrounds. Set against the backdrop of Bourbon County, the hosts blend their love for whiskey with a commitment to uncovering and discussing the truth about America's current state.

1. Introduction to Truth in the Barrel

The episode kicks off with Amy and Denver introducing themselves and the podcast's mission. Emphasizing their shared patriotism and commitment to the Constitution, they set the tone for a series dedicated to honest discourse on national matters.

• Amy McGrath [00:00]: "We're just two patriots who love our country, who served our country, and not just in the military, but also in politics. And we're here to tell it like it is."

• Denver Riggleman [00:10]: "Truth is whiskey as far as I'm concerned."

2. VA Cuts and Its Impact on Veterans

A significant portion of the episode centers on proposed cuts to the Veterans Administration (VA). Amy and Denver express deep concern over the administration's plan to eliminate 80,000 VA jobs, arguing that such reductions will severely impact veterans' healthcare.

• Amy McGrath [04:33]: "Donald Trump and his VA secretary...are sweeping through all the agencies, and they're going to the VA and they are talking about cutting 80,000 jobs at the VA."

• Denver Riggleman [05:13]: "When you have a 73% say you have a 73% approval rate...It's probably still about 10,000 square miles. All they're worried about is what that two years looks like."

They highlight that veterans themselves are not advocating for these cuts and stress the VA's crucial role in providing specialized healthcare that civilian clinics cannot match. The hosts criticize efforts to privatize the VA, citing a lack of broad support among veterans and the American public.

• Amy McGrath [07:42]: "VA health care? It's universal healthcare for veterans. It's socialized medicine, and it works."

3. Tariffs and Economic Implications

Moving to economic policies, the hosts discuss the administration's imposition of tariffs on allies like Mexico and Canada. They argue that these tariffs are counterproductive, leading to higher prices for Americans and straining international relationships.

• Amy McGrath [16:37]: "This whole idea of putting tariffs on Mexico, Canada, all of our partners and allies, unprovoked for no reason is just galactically stupid."

• Denver Riggleman [20:13]: "Pass through on tariffs are ridiculous...It's mathematically impossible for tariffs to make up the difference. Can't do it on our deficit and debt."

They dismantle claims that tariffs can replace income taxes or significantly reduce the national debt, pointing out the tangible negative effects on everyday consumers, such as increased prices for essential goods.

• Amy McGrath [21:12]: "Tariffs equal tax cuts. And when I read that, I was just laughing because that's when my kids think that money that comes out of the ATM is free."

4. Ukraine Conflict and US Foreign Policy

The discussion shifts to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with the hosts expressing concern over the US administration's approach. They critique efforts to broker peace deals that may favor Russian interests and question the adequacy of American support for Ukraine.

• Denver Riggleman [28:39]: "What I'm starting to think, Amy, is that maybe we're actually capitulating to Putin."

• Amy McGrath [31:45]: "The best peace deal in my mind would be for Russia to get the heck out of Ukraine."

Amy and Denver argue that the US should continue providing military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine to ensure their ability to defend against Russian aggression. They caution against complacency and highlight the risks of Russia gaining further footholds in Ukraine and beyond.

• Denver Riggleman [36:44]: "We have taken away any support for jammers for the F16s...This administration is pro Russia."

5. Closing Remarks

In their concluding remarks, Amy and Denver reflect on the discussions, emphasizing the importance of truth and honest communication in navigating the country's challenges. They invite listeners to engage with the podcast, share their thoughts, and stay informed through upcoming episodes.

• Amy McGrath [39:21]: "We need a lot of whiskey to get through the next few years and we gotta be truth tellers."

• Denver Riggleman [40:25]: "I think it's amazing that we covered the veteran administration tariffs in Ukraine in one show. I think it's incredible and I just think we've scratched the surface."

The episode wraps up with a light-hearted exchange about bourbon and a promise of more in-depth discussions in future episodes.

Notable Quotes:

• Amy McGrath [04:33]: "That's total bullshit."
• Denver Riggleman [05:30]: "Ain't that nice? Yeah. Drink to that. Cheers."
• Amy McGrath [07:42]: "VA health care? It's universal healthcare for veterans. It's socialized medicine, and it works."
• Denver Riggleman [20:13]: "It's mathematically impossible for tariffs to make up the difference."
• Amy McGrath [31:45]: "The best peace deal in my mind would be for Russia to get the heck out of Ukraine."
• Denver Riggleman [36:44]: "This administration is pro Russia."

Conclusion:

In this inaugural episode, Amy McGrath and Denver Riggleman set a strong foundation for "Truth in the Barrel," blending candid discussions on national security, veteran affairs, economic policies, and foreign relations with their shared appreciation for bourbon. Their expertise and passionate viewpoints provide listeners with a compelling perspective on the pressing issues facing America today.

For more insightful discussions and updates, visit www.TruthintheBarrel.com and follow the podcast on your preferred streaming platform.

Disclaimer: This summary is based on the provided transcript and is intended for informational purposes only.