The Independents

The Independents was an American television program aired on FOX Business Network (FBN) from 2013 to 2015. The show was crafted to appeal to a diverse viewership, providing informative and evocative discourse on a broad range of current events, politics, business, and culture. Rooted in unbiased judgment and a libertarian perspective, it was designed to deliver intelligent, objective commentary that goes beyond the confines of traditional partisan polarization.

The Imaginative and engaging show centered on fiscal discipline and protection of civil liberties. It aimed at offering real-time and in-depth analysis of the news and contested topics of the day through a libertarian lens. The panel was derived from a wide array of professional backgrounds to bring divergent and insightful opinions to the table, raising thought-provoking discussions. The show consistently challenged norms, confronted assumed perspectives, and incited substantive dialogue regarding state, national, and even global affairs.

At the core of the program were three independent-minded hosts: Kennedy (Lisa Montgomery), a former MTV VJ turned radio personality with a knack for humorous, sharp-edged commentary; Matt Welch, the editor-in-chief of "Reason" magazine who is known for his bold libertarian beliefs; and Kmele Foster, who as an entrepreneur and co-founder of “Freethink Media,” contributed a fresh and innovative take. Together, they created a dynamic and resounding dialogue that mirrored the complexity and multiplicity of common issues.

The Independents' panel was sometimes joined by a plethora of guest commentators. From policymakers, scholars, business leaders to journalists, the show featured an impressive roster of leading lights who offered expert insight on discussed topics. Economists like Peter Schiff and Steve Moore, commentators such as Gavin McInnes and Katherine Mangu-Ward, former politicians like Ron Paul and Richard Grenell, among others, graced the show, each adding a unique perspective to the conversation.

Each episode of The Independents catered to various segments. From 'Party Panels' where two guests sparred on current issues, 'Kennedy's Topical Storm' featuring viral videos; to 'Man on the Street' where Foster engaged everyday people on current issues. It delivered an edgy and engaging hour of television that combined news analysis, panel discussions, and one-on-one interviews.

One of the notable features of the show was its distinctive libertarian stance which provided an enlightening departure from the typical liberal-versus-conservative commentary. They dissected hot-button issues, from government intervention and economic freedom to individual liberty and privacy rights. The show often brought up topics that are traditionally ignored or underplayed in other mainstream media, creating an invigorating platform breathing fresh air into discussions often sanitized on other platforms.

The format of the show was flexible and often informal, inviting audience participation in the conversation. Real-world analogies, humor, and an unfiltered honesty gave the discussions an organic flow, making complex issues accessible and engaging. The Independents smartly illustrated that heated debates on serious issues did not have to be dreary but could be interesting, lively, and even fun.

The Independents launched at a critical juncture in U.S. history, amidst rising polarization and shortcomings in traditional political structures. It created the necessary platform for informed discussion, identifying the common ground among conflicting viewpoints and pushing through the smokescreen of political rhetoric. It encouraged viewers to think independently, make informed decisions, and understand the world around them better.

Though the show is no longer running, it left an indelible mark in its relatively short run. The Independents successfully ventured into unconventional territory in its approach to news commentary, using libertarian perspectives to approach, disassemble, and voraciously discuss current events and trends. Its utterly unique form of delivery and its commitment to presenting undiluted perspectives on contentious issues made it a standout in the realm of cable news television.

In summary, The Independents was a pioneering program that went against the grain of regular talk shows by embracing a much-needed diversity in dialogues. It was a platform where significant, pressing, and controversial topics were tackled from an independent and libertarian standpoint. It was a show built on wit, wisdom, and the unapologetic questioning of authority—presenting an engaging dialogue on the issues that matter most to the evolution of democracy, freedom, and society as a whole.