The National Defense Radio Show

Stuart Reid’s “The Lumumba Plot: The Secret History of the CIA and a Cold War Assassinatio

We welcome author Stuart Reid to the program to talk about his fascinating new book looking at the Cold War era story of the Lumumba Plot; a the U.S.-sanctioned plot to assassinate the democratically elected leader of the newly independent Congo. Stuart is an executive editor at Foreign Affairs. He has written for The Atlantic, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Bloomberg Businessweek, Politico Magazine, Slate, and other publications.

Roma Downey Returns to The National Defense

We welcome back Roma Downey to the National Defense to talk about her new book “A Message in the Moon.” This gorgeous picture book illustrates the unique relationship between children and their parents and how this special love connects them always, from near or far—from Emmy-nominated actress, producer, and New York Times bestselling author Roma Downey.

Ian Somerhalder with “Common Ground”

We welcome actor and producer Ian Somerhalder to the show to talk about his new documentary film “Common Ground.” With a renowned cast including Ian Somerhalder, Jason Mamoa, and Laura Dern, the film takes the audience on a journey throughout the country's farms. Randy talks with Ian about the importance of farming and maintaining the output of the world’s farmland while being good stewards of the land.

Sherri Shepherd Back on The National Defense

We welcome back Sherri Shepherd to the National Defense to talk about her second shot at hosting her own talk show: Sherri. Sherri talks with Randy about the show, and what it took to get back to this stage as well as discussing her family’s military service history.

Wayne Brady on The National Defense

We welcome the host of “Let’s Make a Deal,” Wayne Brady, to the show to discuss the 15-year run hosting the famous gameshow and the upcoming Veterans Day special he’ll be hosting. Randy and Wayne talk about the “spot of positivity” that the show brings with Wayne and his co-hosts.

Legendary Singer/Songwriter Ray Stevens on The National Defense

We welcome back Ray Stevens to the show to talk about his appearance in a star-studded Nashville concert to honor Ronnie Milsap for his final performance. Randy and Ray talk about Ronnie Lee, Ray’s venue, The CabaRay Showroom, and what is going on in his current life and recordings.

Kelly Rizzo on “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test”

We welcome Kelly Rizzo, a national travel, food, and lifestyle expert, to chat about her participation in FOX's wildly popular series "Special Forces: World's Toughest Test." Nate Herron and Kelly discuss staying warm during a harsh New Zealand winter, her late husband, Bob Saget, and more.

Peter Reiss, Executive Producer of A&E’s “Rifkin Murders”

We welcome the Executive Producer of the new two-part docuseries “Cold Case Files: The Rifkin Murders,” Peter Reiss, to the show. “Cold Case Files: The Rifkin Murders” documents the real-time New York State Police cold case investigation into the two unidentified victims of serial killer Joel Rifkin, the most prolific serial killer in New York State history. Through rare police access and several never-before-seen interviews, including the first interview with Rifkin in over a decade, cameras follow investigators as TV producer Peter Reiss reignites this 30-year-old serial killer case through his relationship with Joel Rifkin.

Jon Loew, Executive Producer for Netflix’s “Spy Ops” Docuseries

We welcome the executive producer of the Netflix series “Spy Ops” to talk about the series he has produced featuring stories from U.S. Special Forces, F.B.I., C.I.A., Mossad, and many others that are truly wilder than fiction! Randy and Jon talk about just some of the stories featured in this program and the role that spy-craft and special forces play in maintaining peace at home and abroad.

William Shatner Returns to The National Defense

We welcome William Shatner back to the program to talk about his life and career in entertainment. He is again touring with screenings of “The Wrath of Kahn” followed by Q&A sessions. Randy and Bill talk about the role of technology and how it has changed the nature of journalism, acting, writing, and broadcasting, as well as what fans of Shatner and Star Trek can expect from Captain Kirk in the future.