• Trump's VA Cuts: Betraying Our Veterans? 🤔 | Guest: Brian Shapiro
    Mar 13 2025

    Hold The Mic’s weekly show dives into the latest political and social events shaping America, with hosts Ryan Shead and Ian Sherman tackling Trump’s proposed VA job cuts. Are these cuts a betrayal of our veterans? 🤔

    Ryan and Ian’s unique bond—despite being thousands of miles apart—fuels their engaging discussions as they connect with audiences across the country. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who values veterans’ rights and wants to stay informed

    Tune-in Wednesdays at 8pm EST and 5pm PST to hear what these two elder millenials have to say about America and the role we play on the world stage.

    SPECIAL GUEST: Brian Shapiro

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 - Intro

    00:40 - Welcome Brian Shapiro

    05:00 - Trump Cuts 80,000 VA Jobs

    08:56 - Debunking Conservative Propaganda

    12:38 - Trump’s Political Capital

    13:14 - Run for Office

    13:58 - Removing Trump from Office

    17:39 - Transgender Bathroom Laws

    23:33 - Jasmine Crockett Discussion

    27:37 - Michelle Obama's "When They Go Low"

    31:55 - Republicans and Military Support

    33:20 - Trump Surrounded by Yes Men

    35:35 - Military Recruitment Concerns

    42:35 - Elon Musk's Government Influence

    45:37 - State of the Union Attendance

    49:45 - Kamala Harris Insights

    51:15 - Tim Walz Overview

    52:48 - Democratic Strategy Discussion

    57:51 - Canada Bans US Products

    59:55 - January 6th Defendant Incident

    1:06:00 - US Energy Crisis Analysis

    1:08:16 - Al Green Discussion

    1:10:14 - Trump's Tariffs on Canada

    1:14:09 - $8 Million Transgender Mice Study

    1:17:24 - Evolving Political System

    1:20:07 - Alyssa Slotkin’s Rebuttal

    1:21:57 - Social Security Issues

    1:27:34 - Cybertruck Update

    1:31:10 - Trump’s Cryptocurrency Scheme

    1:37:21 - Elon Cancels Cancer Research Contracts

    1:44:25 - Where to Find B

    1:45:54 - Positive Takeaways

    1:47:20 - Like, Subscribe, and Notifications

    1:47:57 - Outro

    Podcast Audio can be found below...

    beacons.ai/ryanshead

    Ian's Music...



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    1 hr and 48 mins
  • The Boys Sit Down with Veteran and Political Activist Marcus Flowers
    Mar 2 2025

    Join hosts Ryan Shead and Ian Sherman, two middle-aged fathers who grew up together in Metro Detroit as they lead another powerful episode of Hold The Mic, diving into political commentary and social events shaping America.

    This week, the duo is joined by veteran Marcus Flowers to tackle pressing topics like leadership, historical struggles, and the state of democracy. From heartfelt stories of military service to fiery discussions on current political missteps, this episode cuts through the noise to deliver unfiltered truths.

    With their unique bond spanning across states and decades, Ryan and Ian bring authentic perspectives on what it means to lead and fight for progress. Don’t miss their relatable yet no-nonsense approach to dissecting today’s challenges.

    Tune-in Wednesdays for more episodes filled with insight, humor, and a call to action for all Americans. "Hold The Mic" is here to spark conversations, fuel change, and make every voice heard. Stay informed—stay engaged. Much love!

    #holdthemic #ryanarmy #podcast #news #newsupdate #america #veteran #vets #military #ukraine #trump #usa #nato #russia #putin #JusticeAI

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 - Intro

    01:00 - Black History Month

    04:08 - Shirley Franklin

    05:22 - Backlash from a Black President

    07:32 - Woke vs Dumb S**t

    09:32 - The World’s View of America

    13:53 - World Leaders Respond to Oval Office meeting

    18:55 - Putin Invades Ukraine

    19:59 - Zelensky: "God Bless Trump Will Stop Him"

    21:10 - Post-Show 25:37 - Round 2

    31:02 - Trump’s Disastrous Foreign Policy

    40:37 - Trump vs Putin

    43:10 - Background Checks for Elected Officials

    49:54 - MTG’s Boyfriend

    51:30 - Trump’s Space Lasers

    55:15 - Don’t Be the Loud American

    56:29 - Biden Admin Removes Block on Selling Arms to Russia

    58:04 - Equipment Left in War Zones

    1:00:55 - Sending Money vs Sending Troops

    1:06:51 - Marcus’s Super PAC

    1:08:15 - Last Question

    1:12:30 - Tune in Wednesday

    Next Week's Guest: Brian Shapiro

    Podcast Audio can be found below... beacons.ai/ryanshead



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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • 50th Episode Special: Untangling Trump's Chaos and Musk's Agenda 🎙️| Ep. 50
    Feb 24 2025

    Join Ryan Shead and Ian Sherman, two middle-aged fathers who grew up in detroit together during the 1990's for their 50th episode of Hold the Mic!

    This weekly show delivers sharp political commentary diving into current political and social events shaping America. Broadcasting from New York City to Arizona, Ryan and Ian bring their unique perspectives, humor, and deep connection as longtime friends to this episode filled with discussions on Trump’s influence, constitutional crises, and the state of democracy.

    SPECIAL GUEST: Robert McWhirter

    Book Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8wJM9GD

    Stay informed, entertained, and engaged with Ian and Ryan’s unapologetic take on current events and worldwide relationships, from New York City’s legal battles to America’s broader political landscape — your voice matters.

    Tune-in and be a part of the conversation shaping our future.

    Hit like, subscribe, and turn on those notifications so you never miss an episode of Hold The Mic LIVE!

    #donaldtrump #trump #news #msnbc #holdthemic #ryanarmy #substack #america

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 - Intro

    01:00 - 50th Episode Celebration

    02:00 - Guest Introduction

    03:20 - Trump and Reagan Republicans

    07:50 - Feelings Friday: Stock Up on Ammo

    10:00 - FBI Threatens Congress

    12:47 - AOC Discussion

    17:42 - Trump's Approval Rating Insights

    20:10 - US Foreign Aid Overview

    23:57 - CPAC and Fox News Analysis

    26:55 - Bannon’s “Flood the Zone” Strategy

    29:10 - International Negotiations Explained

    31:15 - Trump’s DOJ Weaponization

    35:53 - Biden Administration Incompetence

    39:54 - Government Efficiency Issues

    43:40 - Enrique Tarrio Arrest Update

    45:30 - Presidential Pardons Explained

    49:00 - Fox News Misinformation

    51:25 - Trump Deletes Police Misconduct Database

    54:55 - Elon Musk as President?

    01:01:38 - Elon Musk & Netanyahu Relations

    01:05:00 - Trump’s Funding Threats on Anti-Trans Policies

    01:09:17 - Assessing Biden's Presidency

    01:10:41 - Quid Pro Quo Explained

    01:13:53 - AOC Revisited

    01:17:33 - Trump’s Strategic Ability

    01:19:21 - Fixing the Framers' Failure

    01:23:44 - The SAVE Act Overview

    01:26:13 - Originalism in Law

    01:33:14 - Moving the Show to Wednesdays

    01:35:42 - Critique of Pete Hegseth

    01:38:18 - Afghanistan Insights

    01:44:27 - Trump Fires General Charles Q. Brown

    01:47:30 - Learning from History

    01:54:06 - US Code 18 Chapter 115 Overview

    01:57:15 - Next Friday’s Guest Preview

    01:58:30 - Positive of the Week

    02:02:45 - Ryan Rant After Dark

    02:05:50 - Justice AI Discussion

    02:07:17 - Using AI in Politics

    02:08:37 - Upcoming Episode Preview

    02:09:45 - OUTRO Podcast

    Audio can be found below:

    www.beacons.ai/ryanshead

    Ian's Music:



    Get full access to Hold the Mic Podcast at ryanshead.substack.com/subscribe
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    2 hrs and 10 mins
  • NY Mayor Adams' Reprieve and Kendrick Lamar Breaking Hearts and Records | Ep. 49
    Feb 16 2025

    Join Ryan Shead and Ian Sherman, the bearded middle-aged fathers behind "Hold The Mic," for this week's engaging commentary on Kendrick Lamar's groundbreaking Super Bowl halftime show and its hidden messages. From decoding the powerful imagery to connecting it with today's political and social events, Ryan and Ian bring their signature blend of humor, insight, and authenticity.

    Broadcasting from New York City and Arizona, these High School friends tackle America’s pressing issues while sharing stories that resonate with everyday Americans. In this episode, they explore Kendrick Lamar's artistry, the cultural impact of his performance, and how it challenges viewers to think beyond the surface. Plus, they dive into the latest political developments, including the importance of civic engagement.

    Whether you're in New York City, Arizona, or anywhere across America, this weekly show is your go-to source for thoughtful political commentary and cultural insights.

    Don't miss out on the conversation—tune in, Subscribe, Download, stay informed, and remember to make your voice heard. Together, we can shape a better America. Subscribe now and join the movement!

    #holdthemic #PoliticalCommentary #SocialEvents #RyanShead #IanSherman #KendrickLamar #SuperBowl2025 #superbowllix #kendricklamarsuperbowlreaction #kendricklamarsuperbowl #lilwaynereactionsuperbowl #lilwaynesuperbowl

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 - Intro

    01:25 - Valentine’s Day Celebrations

    03:15 - Justice AI Developments

    04:56 - Elon Musk’s DOGE Group Insights

    08:11 - Trump and Putin Relations

    08:59 - Disinformation vs Misinformation

    11:46 - JD Vance's Controversial Statements

    14:10 - Elon Musk's Government Overreach Issues

    17:55 - Taking Action on Government Overreach

    29:36 - Trump DOJ Drops Charges Explained

    30:08 - Future Implications for the DOJ

    38:05 - Veteran Affairs Employee Firings

    39:45 - Trump and Military Support

    43:33 - Protests at State Capitols Overview

    45:03 - Government's Stance on Tesla Purchases

    49:21 - Public Perception of Current Events

    56:26 - Elon Musk’s Government Contracts Explained

    59:58 - Strategies to Combat Issues

    1:02:54 - Trump’s Cabinet Appointments for Second Term

    1:14:30 - Planes Crashing Incidents

    1:17:30 - Intelligence in Leadership

    1:20:50 - Elon Musk's Speaking Skills Critique

    1:25:48 - Pizzagate Gunman Incident

    1:26:38 - Trump’s Executive Order Overview

    1:28:10 - Trump Pardons Explained

    1:29:32 - Trump’s Afghanistan Prisoner Release

    1:30:50 - Democratic Communication Strategies

    1:32:40 - Super Bowl Halftime Show Highlights

    1:40:27 - OUTRO 1:48:32 - Jalen Hurts’ Management Team

    1:47:31 - Trump’s Super Bowl Spending

    1:56:30 - Community Action Ideas

    1:57:16 - Michigan Senate Race Updates

    2:04:08 - Ian's Student Loan Success

    2:08:45 - Ryan’s Positive Outlook

    2:13:01 - Ryan’s Green Room Experience

    2:16:08 - OUTRO



    Get full access to Hold the Mic Podcast at ryanshead.substack.com/subscribe
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    2 hrs and 17 mins
  • Musk vs. Trump: Security Clearances & Classified Chaos | Ep. 48
    Feb 8 2025

    Send us a text

    Hold The Mic is a weekly show hosted by high school classmates Ryan Shead and Ian Sherman that provides commentary surrounding current political and social events.

    Ryan and Ian grew up together in Detroit during the 90's and 2000's. While Ian lives in New York City and Ryan in Arizona, these two are never far from home.

    Tune in Fridays at 8pm EST and 5pm PST to hear what these two bearded middle-aged fathers have to say about America and the role we play on the world stage.

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - Intro
    01:26 - Feelings Friday
    05:21 - Legal Pushback
    11:27 - John Fetterman Votes on Biden's Judicial Nominees
    15:22 - Elon Musk's Doge Accesses Federal Payment Systems
    18:08 - Elon Musk and Donald Trump Financial Ties
    21:33 - Elon’s Access to Classified Information
    25:54 - Understanding Regulations
    27:10 - Importance of Regulations
    31:20 - Trump Reacts to Elon’s Time Cover
    35:30 - Trump Bans Trans Athletes
    40:07 - Why People Hate Us
    42:50 - NOT FOR KIDS
    46:15 - Trump's New Executive Order
    49:15 - Trump’s Genocide Joe
    53:00 - Trump's Worst Executive Orders
    57:05 - Trump’s Tariffs on Canada and Mexico
    58:53 - Overview of Trump’s Executive Orders
    01:00:57 - Ban on Transgender Athletes
    01:01:48 - Elimination of DEI Mandates
    01:07:28 - Rolling Back DEI Policies
    01:12:04 - Reversing Environmental Policies
    01:16:33 - USAID Overview
    01:17:14 - South Africa Relations
    01:17:41 - AI Developments
    01:20:40 - US Sovereign Wealth Fund
    01:29:28 - Immigration Policy Overhauls
    01:33:26 - Department of Education Abolishment
    01:38:03 - Positive Outcomes
    01:43:15 - Upcoming Shows
    01:44:07 - Final Comments

    Podcast Audio can be found below...

    beacons.ai/ryanshead

    Ian's Music...

    https://open.spotify.com/artist/6RNXILI2Z4eLjB5Ox1HAQq?si=srx9PpTzRdupUFnE11hlrQ



    Get full access to Hold the Mic Podcast at ryanshead.substack.com/subscribe
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    1 hr and 45 mins
  • America's Constitutional Crisis and What We Can Do | Guest: Bob McWhirter | Ep. 47
    Feb 1 2025

    Send us a text

    Get ready for another compelling episode of "Hold The Mic," where hosts Ryan Shead and Ian Sherman, two bearded middle-aged fathers from New York City and Arizona, bring their unique perspectives to current events and social issues. This week, they dive into Donald Trump's immigration agenda with legal expert Robert McWhirter, exploring the constitutional implications, ICE raids, and the impact on America's most vulnerable populations. Packed with insightful political commentary and social event analysis, this weekly show unpacks real issues affecting America with a mix of wit, passion, and expertise.

    Whether it's dissecting policies, discussing birthright citizenship, or exposing the legal ramifications of Trump's proposals, Ryan and Ian, despite being separated by miles from Arizona to NYC, unite to educate and engage viewers. Don’t miss this no-holds-barred conversation that’s both thought-provoking and empowering.

    Tune in every Friday to "Hold The Mic" for more current political and social event breakdowns.

    Subscribe now and join the conversation that matters!

    #donaldtrump #livenews #trump #trumpdeportation #trumpimmigration

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - Intro
    00:50 - Who is Bob McWhirter
    02:21 - Sheriff Joe Arpaio
    09:28 - Birthright Citizenship
    20:11 - Can Native Americans Grant Citizenship
    21:40 - Racial Profiling
    24:35 - Puerto Rico
    28:10 - Carrying Documents
    31:47 - Elon Musk
    32:50 - Economic Impact of Illegal Immigration
    35:30 - Cost of Deporting 11 Million People
    39:40 - Criminals Among Illegal Immigrants
    44:17 - How Trump is Helping China
    54:40 - Is Immigration the Biggest Issue Right Now
    55:30 - Your Voice Matters
    58:40 - Are These Raids Legal
    01:00:48 - Can ICE Enter Churches
    01:01:40 - How ICE Increases Crime
    01:03:20 - How to Protect Yourself
    01:05:00 - What Can Immigrants Do
    01:06:40 - How Long it Takes to Immigrate
    01:08:20 - How to Fix the Immigration System
    01:12:43 - Military Deployments
    01:13:53 - Posse Comitatus Act
    01:14:32 - National Emergencies
    01:17:04 - Good Neighbors
    01:18:54 - Protecting the Children
    01:23:38 - Prospective Pardons
    01:27:13 - Amending the 14th Amendment
    01:30:35 - Elon Musk’s Election Lottery
    01:33:15 - What Happens if a President Commits Election Fraud
    01:37:26 - Republican Party’s Use of Non-Democratic Means to Maintain Power
    01:41:32 - Positives
    01:47:08 - Ryan’s Positive
    01:49:39 - Upcoming Guest and Final Thoughts



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    1 hr and 51 mins
  • Trump's America: Healthcare, Politics, and Hard Truths | Guest: The Ghost | Ep. 46
    Jan 25 2025

    Send us a text

    Hold The Mic is your go-to weekly show for bold political commentary and unfiltered conversations on the pressing social events shaping America today. Hosted by Ryan Shead and Ian Sherman, two bearded middle-aged fathers with a shared history and strong bond despite their geographical separation across Detroit, New York City, and Arizona, this episode dives deep into the hard truths about healthcare, politics, and the state of the nation under Trump's America.

    With a mix of humor, personal stories, and no-nonsense analysis, Ryan and Ian tackle topics like the ongoing battle for accessible healthcare, the implications of political decisions, and the importance of protecting democracy. Their unique perspectives, shaped by lifelong experiences and a commitment to addressing real issues, make this show a must-watch for anyone seeking clarity in chaotic times.

    Join the conversation and stay informed. Your voice matters, and together, we can shape the future.

    Don’t miss a single episode—subscribe now and tune in every Friday for more insights and critical discussions!

    SPECIAL GUEST: The Ghost on TikTok and YouTube Fame

    #politicalcommentary #SocialEvents #RyanShead #IanSherman #HoldTheMic #America #news #trump #foxnews #donaldtrump #cbsnews

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - Intro
    00:40 - Welcome Ghost
    02:00 - Ryan's Medical Journey
    06:00 - Anesthesia and Insurance Companies
    10:20 - Outro
    12:55 - Inspiration for Politics
    18:13 - Ryan Fact Checked by Meta
    23:59 - Trump and Fauci's Security Removal
    27:30 - Trump's Last Minute Pardons
    28:58 - Issues with Police Unions
    33:20 - JD Vance as an Adversary
    36:55 - Trump and Bird Flu
    39:10 - Leaked Letter Discussion
    42:24 - Elon Musk and Election Rigging
    45:55 - Elon's "Good Morning America" Appearance
    52:55 - Elon Musk's Auschwitz Visit
    54:58 - Ryan's Auschwitz Experience
    59:28 - Recommended Video
    1:00:00 - Sam Kuffel Fired for Criticism
    1:04:15 - Military Loyalty to Trump
    1:12:53 - Coast Guard Admiral Dismissed over DEI
    1:14:39 - McConnell's Debt Ceiling Vote
    1:18:15 - Military Leaders Dismissed for Disloyalty
    1:23:51 - Trump and General Milley's Portrait
    1:27:10 - Bishop's Call for Immigrant Mercy
    1:30:25 - Trump's Reaction to Bishop
    1:36:00 - Pete Buttigieg's Confirmation
    1:40:03 - Trump's Strategic Long Game
    1:45:40 - White Supremacists at Trump's Rally
    1:47:50 - Potential Trump Pardons for Derek Chauvin
    1:49:50 - Military Vaccine Mandate Controversy
    1:52:15 - Vaccine Development under Trump
    1:58:57 - Trump's Marketing Skills
    2:01:39 - IQ Test Challenge
    2:04:27 - Ryan's Hat
    2:08:35 - Trump and MLK Proclamation
    2:10:55 - Biden's New Executive Order
    2:13:45 - NASA Ends DEIA Programs
    2:15:27 - NASA's Future Challenges
    2:17:10 - OPM Guidance on Trump's EO
    2:20:33 - Upcoming Paper Requirements
    2:20:46 - ICE Arrests Veteran Citizen
    2:23:10 - Anxiety and Therapy Discussion
    2:31:20 - JD Vance on Population Growth
    2:34:04 - ICE Raids in Elementary Schools
    2:39:27 - Mexico's Response to US Military Plans
    2:40:20 - Trump's Reaction to Mexico
    2:42:45 - Cancun Travel Advisory
    2:43:33 - Healing from Historical Trauma
    2:49:59 - Nashville School Shooting
    2:52:05 - Trump's Views on Teleworking
    2:55:17 - Trump's Space Force Initiative
    2:58:16 - Finding Ghost Online
    3:01:34 - Final Thoughts
    3:03:13 - Positive Reflections
    3:04:43 - Upcoming Show Preview
    3:05:08 - Leave a Review
    3:05:22 - International Listener Engagement
    3:05:35 - Concluding Thoughts

    Podcast Audio can be found below...

    beacons.ai/ryanshead

    Ian's Music...

    https://open.spotify.com/artist/6RNXILI2Z4eLjB5Ox1HAQq?si=srx9Pp



    Get full access to Hold the Mic Podcast at ryanshead.substack.com/subscribe
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    3 hrs and 6 mins
  • MLK Day & America’s Dark Reality 🌍 | Hold the Mic Ep. 45
    Jan 22 2025

    Send us a text

    Join Ryan Shead, Ian Sherman, and special guest Christian Ortiz for Episode 45 of "Hold The Mic," the weekly show where facts matter more than feelings. This week, the bearded middle-aged fathers dig deep into MLK Day, America’s dark political reality, and the challenges the nation faces during another Trump Presidency.

    Broadcast from New York City, and Arizona, Ryan and Ian’s unique blend of humor, fiery commentary, and real-life perspectives create a powerful discussion on current political and social events shaping America. With honest conversations about topics like systemic inequalities, political accountability, and the value of community action, "Hold The Mic" is your go-to for informed and engaging commentary.

    Tune in every Friday at 8 PM EST and join the movement! Don’t miss out on this vital conversation—let’s stay informed, united, and make our voices heard.

    #news #trump #communityactivism #donaldtrump #holdthemic #ryanarmy #ryanshead

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 - Intro
    01:48 - MLK Day
    04:56 - Inauguration Ceremony
    17:09 - Trump and Melania Crypto Meme Coins
    19:34 - Pastor Predicts Trump Victory
    24:15 - Ryan's Raw Story Headline
    27:10 - Welcome to the Show
    28:44 - Christian Ortiz Interview
    29:14 - Trump’s Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship
    34:54 - Violence in Advocacy
    42:59 - Future Plans for Ryan
    45:37 - Final Thoughts
    48:25 - Lake and Riley Act Overview
    51:09 - Justice AI Discussion
    1:00:35 - Misogyny in Society
    1:04:45 - Victim Mentality and Hate
    1:11:05 - Donald Trump’s Last Speech Analysis
    1:11:23 - Trump’s Last Executive Orders Overview
    1:11:30 - Trump’s Last Pardons Explained
    1:21:55 - Importance of Intersectionality
    1:25:08 - The Left and Anti-Semitism
    1:32:45 - Ryan's Call for Accountability
    1:35:40 - Need for a Larger Platform
    1:42:35 - Elon Musk’s Salute to Innovation
    1:49:58 - Trump’s Executive Order on Gender Issues
    1:55:53 - Transgender Bathroom Controversy
    1:59:11 - Donald Trump’s Election Conspiracy Theories
    2:03:45 - TikTok’s Integrity and Authenticity
    2:10:15 - Facebook’s Connection to Trump
    2:15:14 - Reinstatement of Discharged Military Members
    2:22:14 - Economic Outlook and Predictions
    2:24:59 - Trump's Legal Strategies
    2:29:41 - Thank You for Watching
    2:32:41 - Final Thoughts Recap
    2:35:20 - Preview of Upcoming Show
    2:37:58 - OUTRO

    Podcast Audio can be found below...

    beacons.ai/ryanshead



    Get full access to Hold the Mic Podcast at ryanshead.substack.com/subscribe
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    2 hrs and 39 mins