The National Defense Radio Show

Legendary Band Leader Paul Shaffer on The National Defense

We have a treat for you this week as we welcome the former band leader of Dave Letterman’s “Most Dangerous Band,” Paul Shaffer to the show to discuss his long-running music career, how he got started as a television band leader, his new interview series, his Christmas Eve trips to visit the troops in Afghanistan and much, much more.

Newt Gingrich Returns to the National Defense

We welcome back Newt Gingrich to the program to take a look at his newest book "Defeating Big Government Socialism: Saving America's Future." We discuss some current events, and hear Newt's unique take on what is happening around us on a local, national, and global scale.

Astronaut Jose Hernandez on the Newest James Webb Pictures (and WINE!)

We welcome our first ever ASTRONAUT to the program: Jose Hernandez! Randy talks with Jose about the fascinating new pictures that have arrived from the James Webb Space Telescope, and learns a little about what we're seeing in the fantastic photos. Jose also owns a vineyard out in California, so, of course, Randy takes the opportunity to discuss a little vino with our spaceman as well.

Motivational Speaker Damon West on The National Defense

Randy welcomes one of the most sought after motivational speakers in America, Damon West. He shares his struggles with addiction, his descent into a life of crime, and the incredible story of how he overcame his demons to live out his "next mission" of serving others. We hope you enjoy this great discussion on The National Defense!

Adam Carolla on The National Defense

We welcome one of our favorite comedians and commentators, the hilarious Adam Carolla. We discuss his brand new book "Everything Reminds Me of Something: Advice, Answers...but No Apologies." Randy peppers Adam with some rapid fire questions straight from his book as well as some off the top of his head, in this enjoyable interview.

Ryan Kules Director of Project Odyssey for Wounded Warrior Project

We welcome Ryan Kules, Director of Project Odyssey from Wounded Warrior Project. Ryan discusses his work with WWP as well as his own experience being supported by the organization when he was severely injured in an IED attack. He talks about WWP’s continuing mission to support the physical and mental well-being of American veterans who have suffered adverse affects to their bodies and minds in service to our nation. Project Odyssey is a 12-week mental health program that uses adventure-based learning to help warriors manage and overcome their invisible wounds, enhance their resiliency skills, and empower them to live productive and fulfilling lives.

Bob Evans Farms ”Heroes to CEO” recipient Charlynda Scales, Founder of Mutt’s Sauce

Charlynda Scales is a Tennessee native who spent 11 years active duty in the U.S. Air Force. While still on active duty, Scales founded a Dayton-based business called " Mutt's Sauce". This all-purpose sauce is based on a family recipe her late grandfather bequeathed to her. We talk with Charlynda about her product and the support she has received from Bob Evans Farms in the Heroes to CEOs program.

Veteran and Industrial Designer Louis Nelson

We welcome former Army Captain Louis Nelson, who went on to pursue a successful career in industrial design. Randy and Louis talk about his long-running career as an industrial designer as well as the recent renovations to the Korean War Veterans Memorial on the National Mall.

Ret. Brigadier General Mark Baird

We welcome retired Brig. General Mark Baird to the show to discuss his career in the U.S. Air Force and his recent appointment at Virgin Orbit as the new President of VOX Space. The company’s wholly owned subsidiary that provides responsive, timely, dedicated, and affordable launch services for the national security community.

Kenny Loggins on The National Defense!

We welcome one of our favorite musicians, a man who practically wrote the theme song for every other Hollywood blockbuster in the 80s: Kenny Loggins! Randy talks with Kenny about his successful and difficult history with Jim Messina, their reunion show at the Hollywood Bowl, and some really fun stories about his time in the music industry.