Getting it Right - Rick Wagner

In this episode, Rick Wagner looks past the headlines and asks the harder strategic question: what happens when the West is forced to respond to pressure in too many places at once? From drone attacks and NATO vulnerability to the uneasy partnership between Russia and China, this discussion examines how modern conflict may not arrive as one clean, declared war, but as a series of overlapping crises—Ukraine, the South China Sea, Taiwan, shipping lanes, cyberattacks, proxy pressure, and political exhaustion at home. Rick argues that the real danger is not simply one hostile actor making one bad decision. It is the cumulative strain on Western capacity, attention, deterrence, and will. Russia and China may speak warmly of each other in public, but underneath the surface their relationship is transactional, unequal, and unstable. Russia does not want to become China’s junior partner, but its war in Ukraine has pushed it closer to that position. Meanwhile, China may not need to launch a dramatic invasion to create a crisis. A blockade, a shipping “inspection” regime, or a claim that weapons shipments threaten Chinese security could force the United States and its allies into a dangerous decision point. The larger question is whether the West still has the industrial base, political unity, military readiness, and strategic clarity to handle simultaneous pressure across multiple theaters. This is not panic talk. It is a sober warning: deterrence depends on credibility, and credibility depends on capacity.

Rick discusses Chicago Public Schools’ May Day controversy as part of a larger pattern of institutional drift. Public schools exist to educate children first — to teach reading, writing, math, history, civics, and independent thought. Civic engagement has a place, but when struggling schools blur the line between education and political mobilization, they risk losing the trust of parents and the public. The larger point is simple: institutions regain legitimacy by returning to competence, accountability, and their core mission.

Rick breaks down the Iran conflict, why gas prices stay high despite U.S. oil production, and what America has lost since the Apollo era. He ties war, energy, and space exploration into a broader argument about national strength, technological ambition, and the real cost of decline.  

This episode examines the strategic realities of conflict with Iran, emphasizing the limits of air power against a large, mountainous country with dispersed and well-hidden military assets. It explores the vulnerability of the Strait of Hormuz, where even small mobile forces can threaten global trade, and considers the fragile calculations of Gulf allies caught between fear of Iran and fear of regional economic collapse. At its core, the discussion raises a larger question: what, exactly, would success look like, and is there any clear exit strategy

This episode examines the deeper structure behind modern Middle Eastern conflict, moving beyond headlines to focus on the forces that actually drive behavior. It explores how theological frameworks—particularly within Iran’s Twelver Shi’a tradition—inform long-term strategy, risk tolerance, and concepts of victory. Drawing on the history of the Crusades, the discussion highlights enduring patterns of warfare, including asymmetry, ideological motivation, and the gap between Western and Middle Eastern strategic thinking. It also challenges the “lone wolf” narrative, arguing that many modern attacks reflect a broader logic rather than isolated acts. The result is a grounded look at continuity—how ancient belief systems still shape present-day conflict, and why modern institutions so often misread what they’re facing.

AI, State Power, and Political Drift Rick covers a wide range of issues, from the push to end daylight savings time to the growing role of artificial intelligence in research. He warns that AI can fall into a “Family Feud” problem—prioritizing consensus over truth. Rick also examines Colorado’s regulatory climate and why businesses are leaving for states like Texas and Florida. The episode closes with concerns over political pressure on sheriffs and a briefing on rising tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran

Rick Wagner breaks down the week’s key flashpoints—from rising pressure around Iran and the stalemate in Ukraine to a maritime confrontation near Cuba. At home, allegations of Medicaid fraud in Minnesota and the continuing fallout from U.K. grooming scandals raise deeper questions about accountability. Rick argues these events point to a broader problem: institutions losing strategic clarity while transparency declines. When enforcement becomes politicized and equal protection erodes, public trust begins to fracture.

The discussion explores how radical causes provide moral certainty and emotional release, allowing destructive behavior to be reframed as virtue and personal failure to be reassigned to a hated external enemy. Belonging, not belief, becomes the real currency. Hatred functions as social glue, binding participants together while absolving them of responsibility for their own dissatisfaction.

What do New York’s budget math, China’s military posturing, and Europe’s instability have in common? More than you think. This podcast breaks down how fiscal denial and geopolitical weakness collide—and why the bill always comes due.

Job interviews no longer revolve around what the applicant can do for you. Now it's all about what the hirer can provide for the employee.  You used to need some amount of competence in order to be in authority. Our former Vice President shows that that's no longer applicable.    #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Education #KamalaHarris 

People in power have no issue discussing and making decisions on topics they no nothing about. Let's take technology and National security.  The justice system is failing us. Criminals are walking free because of failed ideology. Repeat offenders are walking free all the time.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Let's talk about the Department of Education - why would more funding help?  1% of the population of New York pays 40% of the taxes. You don't want that 1% moving! #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Trump #CrimeRate

Some of the challenges our country has faced have been ugly. This is still a great country. No society is perfect. If the U.S is so bad, why are people fighting to be here?    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Mondami #Trump #Somalis

The people getting elected recently really makes you question the IQ of the citizens voting there.   Let's talk South America and Mexico. There are a lot of complicated issues there right now   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Who protects the ICE agents and National Guard?  Let's look at the latest election results. What can we learn from this turn out? When the left gets backed into a corner - they revert to fear tactics. Notice how they try to scare their followers into thinking they are the only ones who can save them.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Russia and China have infiltrated much of the world. Other countries no longer know if America can or will have their back. How does this lack of confidence play a role in what side the rest of the world would take during a future conflict?   #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Antifa #MainstreamMedia     

The news is such aimless repetition of the same information! That's why Rick enjoys discussing lesser talked about current events.   The rhetoric around global warming has not gone the way the left would like. Let's discuss some updated research!    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

The news and mainstream media are so frustrating. The news is on 24/7, and yet they report on so little. Just constant repetition of the stories they want to cover.    #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Antifa #MainstreamMedia

Let's talk Gaza and Israel. It's not as if this is the first time there has been conflict in the area.    #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Gaza #Israel #Palastine 

Russia and Ukraine are still at it! Rick dives into Putin and Zelensky's current actions and how they're affecting the world around us.    #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Russia #Ukraine #Drones 

Let's talk mental health and how open conversations and we as neighbors can help. We don't have to wait for someone else to help those around us. We can step in and help and make our communities a safer place.  A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews   

In this episode, Rick unpacks the implications of a recent stabbing that has shaken the community and reignited discussions about safety and violence. He explores how mental health issues often intersect with public safety concerns and why addressing these challenges is critical for both individuals and society. Rick also reflects on the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk Tune in for an episode that goes beyond the headlines and digs into the issues shaping our political and cultural landscape. A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #CharlieKirk

It's not healthy to focus too much on things we can't control. Let's take a break to discuss some interesting ancient history. What you CAN control is who you vote for on City Council. It's much more important than we realize. Vote in your local elections! #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews     

Watching the left-wing media is just viewing hysterical ranting at this point. They're not thinking about what their viewpoint means. It's all just rhetoric to them. It's all fueled by their hatred for Donald Trump. The Government can just borrow more and pay more. How long can this last?    Check out The Rick Wagner Show wherever you listen to your podcasts! Join us for a great conversation on #Politics #Culture and #History. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews

It doesn't take much to get on the Left's bad side. Just ask JK Rowling!   Our belief in the justice system has certainly been restored since the last election.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Who would fund protests in defense of crime? D.C is out of control. God forbid people be able to safely walk down the street in the middle of the day!   What will upcoming interest rate cuts mean and who will they affect? Let's talk about it!   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #DC #CrimeRate #InterestRates  

Mesa County and ICE - Many of you have heard about the tiff going on with the federal and state government at odds in our very own county!   DEI has not been around that long. Before that was affirmative action.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Election distrust for 2028 is already being spread.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

They walked onto the cabinet pretty casually promising to release this information. I'm sure it's a lot more complicated than expected.  California is doing so well that Gavin Newsom has spare time to sit around and podcast! A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews

What's happening with Russia and Ukraine? Things are not going well there, but we suddenly stopped hearing about them.   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

We often think of the founding fathers as wealthy, wigged men. They just sat around arguing with each other. These founders had day jobs. They were the working class. They were the driving force just as you are.  Let's discuss the Big Beautiful Bill - there are pros and cons.  A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Hollywood gossip travels farther than most headlines about nukes in Iran! Since when is Jeff Bezos interesting? We give these people way too much attention.  What happens to your mental health when you are forced to accept lies and repeat them? It's time to reread 1984. A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Rick dives into the vast history of Iran and the Middle East. Things are obviously up in the air, but it's helpful to discuss the historical, political and cultural influences of the past 100 years.  A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Iran #Bombing #NuclearWar #Trump

It's important to understand the historical context of Israel and Iran. Let me know what you think!    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

The left is intimidated by Trump and Musk and they are loving the current feud! Catch up with Rick on this week in politics and reflect on the historical context of Chinese and Russian events A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews #Trump #Musk #China #Russia

Headlines are made to antagonize and fill you with fear. How can we instill some self discipline to protect our peace? Joe Biden may not have deserved elder abuse during his presidency, but that doesn't mean he was at any point, a good person. A legacy in senate, only in age. He never deserved to be president and the media is pretending they had no idea he was incompetent. Are they that dumb? Do they think we are that dumb? Don't answer that! A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Happy Memorial Day Weekend! Let's talk the economy, tariffs, the stock market and more.   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Trump's energy and confident attitude is very interesting to watch.    The way people communicate over politics online is really out of hand.    Joe Biden has never been right about foreign policy - let's take a look!   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews

A new pope has been chosen! Let's talk taxes. Even some "republicans" are pushing for a tax increase.  A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews     

So much has happened since Trump took office. It's been so interesting to see how the bureaucratic organizations have reacted to his changed. Let's discuss some of the cause and effects we're seeing in Washington.   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews     

Let's talk tariffs. Some historical context can really provide insight on how they work and the effects they've made all over the world.   Join special guest, Ryan and I as we discuss military strategy.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

New guns laws pass under the radar again in Colorado. The media would would rather end itself than report what they do behind our backs. Denver citizens are footing the bill to be a sanctuary city. Your government it choosing not to track people. They are down the Yellow Brick Road of Lunacy! Why are people not more upset? They just don't know.  A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Trump's cabinet meeting are the most entertaining we've ever seen! Such a confident group of people.   Gun laws in Colorado are so frustrating. It's hard to keep up. That's what we're here for!   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Let's talk about Tariff's and the stock market. The stock market behaves very erratically sometimes.    Who are you giving your money to when you round up? Every time you make a purchase, a vague message appears to donate to a great cause. But who is collecting on behalf of these causes?    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Tune in to catch our special guest, Cody Kennedy! Cody serves on the Grand Junction City Council. His name is on the upcoming ballot - April 8th! Get out there to vote folks. These council members have a great impact on your daily living.  We're here to help you get to know him and make an informed decision on your ballot. Cody and Rick discuss a few upcoming projects in the county.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews       

Let's discuss foreign policy. There is so much history around Panama. It's important to understand how their history was shaped and the role the US played.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

These are REAL headlines people! That's the scariest part.   It's important we look at world news.    A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

The left are in rage over the cuts happening in DC and other changes taking place. They are riled up and out of ideas!   Local elections are coming up! Please take a look a the people running. Be careful of the sources you trust for information.    Stay tuned for what's happening around the world right now!   A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews 

Trump has his first full cabinet meeting this week - for the first time in a long time, the room is filled with people actually qualified for the job! Zelensky isn't used to being told no - Trump is still understanding of him despite what the media says. A talk radio show blending history, politics and culture. #rickwagner #therickwagnershow #politicalviking #vikingdisruptor #gettingitright #waronwrong #podcast #youtube #spotify #iheartradio #applepodcasts #podbean #knzz #talkradio #conservativenews