On Offense: Conversations with Kris Goldsmith

About On Offense: Conversations with Kris Goldsmith

On Offense: Conversations with Kris Goldsmith features raw, urgent, and unfiltered conversations about the fight against fascism in America. Hosted by Kris Goldsmith — combat veteran, antifascist investigator, and founder of Task Force Butler and Veterans Fighting Fascism — this series brings you behind the scenes of the struggle to defend democracy from the radical right. These episodes include Substack Live interviews, collaborative deep dives, and audio dispatches that explore domestic extremism, authoritarian threats, and the growing grassroots resistance. You'll also hear voices from the broader antifascist movement, including co-hosts of the Find Out podcast — a sharp, unapologetic roundtable of veteran and activist creators pushing back against disinformation and hate. Whether you're a veteran, researcher, organizer, or concerned citizen, this feed will give you the context and clarity to join the fight — wherever you are. Because fighting fascism requires more than silence. onoffense.substack.com (https://onoffense.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

Kristofer Goldsmith

Category

news · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

10 Mar 2025

Latest episode

23 Oct 2025

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   23 Oct 2025

   Trump's VA Is Lying About Mental Health Care Cuts. I Know Because Whistleblowers Came to Me.

   Kris Goldsmith reveals how the Department of Veterans Affairs, under Trump and Secretary Doug Collins, is allegedly cutting mental health care for veterans due to bureaucratic mandates, despite public denials, based on whistleblower accounts.

2. 

   9 Oct 2025

   How the Trump VA Set Up the Washington Post to Attack Veterans' Disability Benefits

   Kris Goldsmith analyzes how the Trump administration's VA leadership allegedly manipulated the Washington Post to publish a misleading story about veterans' disability benefits, potentially endangering veterans' access to compensation.

3. 

   5 Oct 2025

   Why Won’t the ADL Learn That You Can't Appease Fascists?

   Host Kris Goldsmith discusses the FBI's decision to cut ties with the Anti-Defamation League and how CEO Jonathan Greenblatt's appeasement of MAGA weakened the organization in this interview.

4. 

   25 Sept 2025

   Join a Virtual Antifascist Book Club — Then Start One Where You Live

   Host Kris Goldsmith discusses recognizing fascism and organizing antifascist movements within real-world communities, highlighting how virtual spaces support these efforts; this is an interview episode.

5. 

   19 Sept 2025

   I Am an Antifascist Veteran. Well, I Guess That Makes Me a “Terrorist” Now?

   Kris Goldsmith analyzes President Trump's intent to designate "Antifa" as a terrorist organization, exploring the implications for dissent and the response from Veterans Fighting Fascism.

6. 

   11 Sept 2025

   Charlie Kirk’s Assassination and the Cycle of Political Violence

   Host Kris Goldsmith analyzes Charlie Kirk's role in political violence and the potential for intensified extremism following his assassination.

7. 

   30 Aug 2025

   No, We’re Not Paid DNC or AIPAC Propagandists

   Host Kris Goldsmith discusses the smear campaign against pro-democracy creators and the myth of "unpaid authenticity" in this interview.

8. 

   27 Aug 2025

   We’re Building Momentum Against Trump’s VA Abortion Ban

   Kris Goldsmith, host of On Offense, discusses building momentum against the Trump administration's VA abortion ban, empowering listeners to advocate for reproductive healthcare access.

9. 

   17 Aug 2025

   Trump Wants Blood in the Streets of D.C.

   Host Kris Goldsmith interviews himself about Donald Trump's deployment of National Guard troops in D.C., revealing an authoritarian playbook and how citizens can resist.

10. 

    12 Aug 2025

    An Antifascist Veteran’s Guide to Resisting Trump’s Federal Occupation of D.C.

    Host Kris Goldsmith interviews antifascist veterans about resisting federal occupation and authoritarian tactics in D.C., offering strategies for effective community action.

11. 

    14 Jul 2025

    Why Neo-Nazis Are Targeting Kids—And What We Can Do About It

    Host Kris Goldsmith interviews Reed Galen about how fascist groups target and recruit American children by exploiting loneliness, discussing strategies to disrupt these pipelines and protect kids.

12. 

    1 Jul 2025

    Inside the Summer of Escalation: Protests, ICE Raids, and the Threat of Political Violence

    Host Kris Goldsmith interviews journalist Sasha Ingber about the summer's escalating protests, ICE raids, and the potential for political violence, examining the implications of federal overreach and the erosion of public trust.

13. 

    19 May 2025

    They’re Targeting IVF from All Sides — And Trump’s Pardons Made It Worse

    Just two weeks before my daughter is due to be born, a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, was bombed with a weapon of war (https://www.npr.org/2025/05/18/nx-s1-5402806/a-deadly-explosion-outside-a-california-fertility-clinic-is-investigated-as-terrorism)—a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, or VBIED. This kind of attack is more commonly seen in active warzones like Iraq and Afghanistan—not against reproductive care providers in the United States. The bombing killed the attacker and injured four others. The FBI has deemed it a terrorist act (https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/05/18/palm-springs-fertility-clinic-bomb-suspect-manifesto/). The suspect, Guy Edward Bartkus, reportedly left behind a manifesto and attempted to livestream the attack. Authorities believe he was motivated by anti-natalist ideology—the belief that reproduction itself is unethical and that no one should have children. This act did not occur in a vacuum. It represents an escalation in a broader pattern of political violence against reproductive healthcare providers—an escalation being nurtured by the current presidential administration. In January 2025, just four months before this bombing, President Donald Trump issued pardons for 23 individuals convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act) (https://pennsylvaniaindependent.com/reproductive_rights/trump-pardons-anti-abortion-protesters-convicted-of-blocking-clinics-harassing-patients/). This law, enacted in 1994, criminalizes the use of threats, physical obstruction, and violence to prevent people from obtaining or providing reproductive health services. That includes not only abortion, but also miscarriage management, contraception, and in-vitro fertilization (IVF). On Offense with Kris Goldsmith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Among those pardoned was Lauren Handy (https://apnews.com/article/lauren-handy-abortion-clinic-blockade-ab461332b6c83d1c4d7f4d6175d04fbc), convicted for organizing a violent blockade of a D.C. clinic. When police searched her home, they found five fetal remains. Despite this, Trump and his allies—including Senator Josh Hawley—framed these individuals not as criminals, but as victims and heroes. The pardons were issued the day before the March for Life rally (https://reproductiverights.org/trump-pardons-23-people-attacked-abortion-patients-clinics/), the largest anti-abortion demonstration in the United States. They served as an unmistakable political message: violence carried out in service of religious fundamentalism will not be punished. It will be rewarded. In the months since, we’ve witnessed a surge of activity from far-right groups like Operation Save America, a rebranded version of Operation Rescue, known for its history of violent tactics. These groups are no longer operating on the fringes. They are successfully lobbying for legislation that defines abortion as homicide and extends personhood rights to fertilized eggs—policies that could effectively outlaw IVF and many forms of birth control. NPR reporting confirms (https://www.npr.org/2025/05/13/nx-s1-5388475/how-abortion-abolitionists-are-gaining-ground-in-the-u-s) that these activists are working to pressure local officials using a doctrine rooted in Christian Reconstructionism. They cite The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates, a book that argues local elected officials should defy federal law when it conflicts with their interpretation of Christian scripture. This movement is not merely religious—it is political, and explicitly seeks to replace constitutional governance with a theocratic system in which reproductive medicine becomes a crime. As a veteran who has spent years tracking extremism, I recognize these tactics. But now, they’re not just familiar—they’re aimed at my family. But this is no longer academic for me. It’s deeply personal. My wife and I turned to IVF after genetic testing revealed a 25% chance that a child conceived naturally would suffer from a severe or fatal inherited disorder. IVF, along with pre-implantation genetic testing, allowed us to select a healthy embryo and give our daughter the best possible start to life. Now, just weeks from meeting her, I’m faced with the reality that the same clinics and providers who helped us are being targeted by terrorists—and our president is offering clemency to those who would do them harm. We also have healthy embryos frozen—at least one future child, we hope. But in today’s climate, they feel like vulnerable targets. They are subject not only to the biological odds of implantation (https://theivfcenter.com/what-is-the-success-rate-of-ivf-on-the-first-try/), but also to the political volatility that makes it increasingly dangerous to access the care we need. Financial privilege helped make IVF possible for us. But there is no amount of money that can guarantee safety when extremists are permitted to act with impunity. The emotional toll is profound. Starting a family should not come with the risk of being targeted by domestic terrorists. We are being attacked from two ideological directions. On one end are anti-natalists like Bartkus, who believe no one should have children. On the other are far-right pronatalists who claim only certain families—those that conform to their religious dogma—deserve to exist. Both groups use violence. Both seek to eliminate reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy—by force if necessary. And both thrive in a climate of political encouragement and legal indifference. IVF is not a niche issue. For many military and veteran families, it’s essential (https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-sara-jacobs-sen-tammy-duckworth-introduce-ivf-for-military-families-act#:~:text=%E2%80%9COne%20in%20four%20military%20families,country%20and%20starting%20a%20family.%E2%80%9D). Wounds sustained in combat, exposure to toxins, and psychological trauma often result in infertility. For us, IVF is not optional—it is the only way to have biological children. And yet, the VA still does not fully cover IVF. Our government asks us to serve, and then fails to support us when we try to build the families we sacrificed to protect. Worse, it now shelters those who would destroy the very clinics we depend on. My daughter is due May 31. If we want to give her a sibling, we’ll need to return to a fertility clinic. But now, every visit will carry the shadow of political violence. Every check-in will raise the question: will we be safe today? This is not speculative. This is our current reality. The growing alliance between government power and religious extremism is a threat to pluralism, to science, to safety—and to families like mine. So what do we do now? We need to organize. We need to protect one another. We need to build local infrastructure for collective defense. That’s where the Antifascist Book Club (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-home) comes in. It’s more than a reading group—it’s a place to gather, strategize, and act. Whether it’s escorting patients at clinics, advocating for local protections, or preparing our communities for the challenges ahead, we must start now. Visit our guide to starting an Antifascist Book Club: This fight is not just about reproductive rights. It is about democracy. It is about whether science will be respected, whether violence will be rewarded, and whether families like mine can live without fear. We cannot remain silent. We cannot wait for the next attack. The time to act is now. Thanks for reading On Offense with Kris Goldsmith! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to On Offense with Kris Goldsmith at onoffense.substack.com/subscribe (https://onoffense.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

14. 

    2 May 2025

    Veterans Are Being Erased—So We’re Taking the Fight to D.C. with Dropkick Murphys

    A Moment of Erasure On May 1, President Donald Trump announced his intent to rename Veterans Day. In a late-night Truth Social post, he declared that the federal holiday would become “Victory Day for World War I,” claiming the change is needed because, in his words, “we don’t have leaders anymore that know how to celebrate our victories.” This is not just a rebranding. It’s a calculated erasure of history—and of the millions of veterans whose service came after World War I. Veterans of Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and countless other operations are being written out of our national story. Veterans Day began as Armistice Day, established in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I. It was broadened in the 1950s to honor all who served, and made a federal holiday in 1968. For generations, November 11 has stood as a day of solemn gratitude for every veteran. Now, that legacy is under threat. This isn’t just disrespect. It’s historical revisionism—an authoritarian move to rewrite the past to serve the ego of those in power. So we’re taking the fight to Washington. The June 6 Rally: Unite for Veterans, Unite for America On D-Day’s 81st anniversary, thousands of veterans, military families, union allies, and supporters will gather on the National Mall for the Unite for Veterans, Unite for America rally. This peaceful protest, inspired by the Bonus Army of 1932, is grounded in the belief that veterans never stop fighting for one another. We were already organizing before Trump’s announcement. On April 18, Military.com (https://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/04/17/veterans-organizing-call-action-rally-d-day-anniversary-nations-capital.html) reported on our plans to rally in defense of the VA, federal service, and democratic values. Whether or not this news triggered Trump’s response, the timing is hard to ignore. If the administration hoped to distract or divide us, it failed. It only made our message more urgent. Dropkick Murphys to Headline We’re proud to announce that Dropkick Murphys will perform a free, full electric set at the June 6 rally. Known for their working-class anthems and unwavering support for veterans and unions, the band will debut a brand-new protest song written specifically for this event. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a call to action. And it will be loud. From punk clubs to picket lines, Dropkick Murphys have always stood with the people. On June 6, they’re standing with us. Schedule and Details The rally begins at 2:00 PM and runs until 6:00 PM, with speakers including union leaders, veterans impacted by federal cuts, and public figures who have used their platforms to fight for our community. Dropkick Murphys will a 30-minute set in the middle of the rally. Interactive stations will offer ways to take civic action, record personal testimonies, and connect with fellow attendees. ADA-accessible seating, wellness tents, and cooling stations will be available. Come prepared, and come early. View the full schedule and register for updates at: www.unite4veterans.org (https://www.unite4veterans.org/) What’s at Stake Trump’s proposal to rename Veterans Day is more than symbolic. It reflects a broader pattern of disdain for those who served in conflicts he does not romanticize. This is the same man who reportedly called veterans “suckers” and “losers.” Now he’s attempting to codify that contempt into national tradition. Vietnam veterans, post-9/11 veterans, and others have already endured decades of underfunded care, stigma, and broken promises. To now see our service erased from the nation’s highest day of recognition is an insult that demands a response. Be There This rally is for all of us—for every veteran who carried a rifle or a radio, for every spouse and caregiver who served in silence, for every federal employee who continued their service in civilian clothes. It’s for the generations who were promised they would not be forgotten. If you can take the day off, take it now. Book your train. Catch your flight. Organize your crew. June 6. Washington Monument. Dropkick Murphys. Veterans fighting back. We’ll see you on the Mall. Register and learn more at Unite4Veterans.org → (https://www.unite4veterans.org/) Get full access to On Offense with Kris Goldsmith at onoffense.substack.com/subscribe (https://onoffense.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

15. 

    26 Apr 2025

    Live On Offense: Fighting Fascism and Rebuilding Civic Life with Reed Galen

    Yesterday, I had the chance to do something new: a Substack Live event with my friend Reed Galen (https://substack.com/profile/5221618-reed-galen) from The Home Front (https://open.substack.com/pub/reedgalen). Thanks to Substack, the video recording is now available, and I'm excited to share it with you here. We talk about the urgent need to go on offense against the rising tide of authoritarianism in America. Topics we dig into include: How veterans (through Task Force Butler and Veterans Fighting Fascism) and civilians (through Join the Union) can work together to rebuild pro-democracy communities Why hyperlocal organizing—at the school board, county commissioner, and neighborhood coffee shop level—is key to fighting fascism How reviving "third places" like book clubs, union halls, and community spaces can rebuild civic trust How to channel anger and grief into productive, hopeful action without losing empathy This is a raw, honest conversation about where we are, what’s at stake, and how we can start making a difference right where we live. 📚 Resources mentioned: * Start an Antifascist Book Club (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-home) * Join the Union (https://jointheunion.us/) * Find Out Podcast (https://findoutpodcast.substack.com/) Thanks for being part of this movement. On offense is the only way forward. — Kris P.S. Thank you DEO (https://substack.com/profile/99066685-deo), Deedles (https://substack.com/profile/312965589-deedles), Cat F (https://substack.com/profile/310736628-cat-f), Ajhview (https://substack.com/profile/310316721-ajhview), Michelle25 (https://substack.com/profile/257435691-michelle25), and many others for tuning into my live video with Reed Galen (https://substack.com/profile/5221618-reed-galen)! Join me for my next live video in the app. Get full access to On Offense with Kris Goldsmith at onoffense.substack.com/subscribe (https://onoffense.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

16. 

    21 Apr 2025

    The Pentagon Purge: Why Dan Caldwell's Firing Should Alarm Us All

    I know one of the guys who was kicked out of the Pentagon last week. His name is Dan Caldwell, and for more than a decade, he’s been one of Pete Hegseth’s most trusted advisors. I’ve known Dan for about that long too. We’ve disagreed—vehemently—on some of the most important questions facing the veteran community. That includes the future of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the privatization agenda pushed by his former employer, Concerned Veterans for America (CVA). But despite our fundamental ideological differences, I’ve always found Dan to be a principled person, and someone who treats others with honesty and respect. That’s why I was genuinely shocked to hear that he—and a small group of other longtime Hegseth allies—were marched out of the Pentagon by security, accused of leaking sensitive national security information. The media firestorm that’s followed their departure has revealed something much bigger than just an internal HR dispute. It’s exposed the cracks inside a chaotic and deeply factionalized Defense Department, where power struggles are escalating and national security is taking a backseat to petty rivalries, ideological purges, and influence games involving Elon Musk. These are not routine personnel shuffles. They represent a breakdown in the basic functioning of the civilian leadership of the U.S. military. When experienced advisors are removed under murky circumstances, when investigations are launched and concluded without transparency or due process, and when the media narrative is driven by anonymous leaks rather than public accountability, the integrity of the Pentagon is put at risk. Let’s be clear: something is deeply wrong at the Pentagon. These aren’t routine personnel shuffles—they’re ideological purges with national security consequences. A Veteran With Principles—Even If We Don’t Agree Despite our fundamental ideological differences, I’ve always found Dan to be a principled person. Dan Caldwell is a Marine Corps veteran who deployed to Iraq. After his service, he worked on Capitol Hill, became a prominent policy staffer at CVA, and later advised Defense Priorities, a think tank that advocates for restraint in U.S. foreign policy. I first got to know him while I was a student veteran trying to pass legislation to expand education and healthcare access. He was, at the time, part of the government affairs team for CVA. My opposition to CVA’s mission—especially its efforts to privatize the VA—is no secret. I’ve testified against it. I’ve written about it. I’ve protested it. But unlike some of the figures who cycled through that organization, Dan always struck me as someone motivated by principle. His support for veterans’ choice wasn’t just a libertarian reflex—it came from a deep distrust in large, inefficient institutions, a belief system I don’t share but at least respect for its internal logic. Over the years, I saw how he remained steady in his beliefs while the political winds shifted around him. He could have chased a Fox News career. He could have reinvented himself as a political consultant. But he didn’t. Dan Caldwell stayed focused on policy, on ideas, and on his belief in what was best for the country—even when I strongly disagreed with his conclusions. And unlike Pete Hegseth—who, in my view, used CVA as a stepping stone to a Fox News contract and a political career—Dan stayed in the weeds. He did the hard policy work. He tried to build bridges across political divides. That counts for something. So when I heard that he’d been fired from the Pentagon and accused of leaking classified information, my first reaction was disbelief. And the more we’ve learned since, the more it looks like this wasn’t about national security at all—it was about power. It was about control. And it was about silencing dissent. On Offense with Kris Goldsmith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. The Timeline of a Purge Caldwell was fired alongside Darin Selnick (Hegseth’s deputy chief of staff) and Colin Carroll (chief of staff to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg). All three had long histories with Hegseth and had helped shape the Trump administration’s veterans and military policy for over a decade. They were known quantities, deeply trusted by Hegseth, and aligned with his original political trajectory. The public rationale for their removal was an investigation into leaks—reportedly involving U.S. military plans for the Panama Canal, a second carrier heading to the Red Sea, and a proposed intelligence pause related to Ukraine. Yet as reporting from Politico, Reuters, AP, and Responsible Statecraft has made clear, these allegations remain entirely unsubstantiated. The Pentagon never even conducted polygraph tests. > “None of the three men have been told what they were specifically being investigated for.” None of the three men have been told what they were specifically being investigated for. In a joint statement, Caldwell, Selnick, and Carroll said: “We are incredibly disappointed by the manner in which our service at the Department of Defense ended. Unnamed Pentagon officials have slandered our character with baseless attacks on our way out the door... At this time, we still have not been told what exactly we were investigated for, if there is still an active investigation, or if there was even a real investigation of 'leaks' to begin with.” Source (https://x.com/dandcaldwell/status/1913701312929149363) Meanwhile, the individual most responsible for initiating the investigation—Joe Kasper, Hegseth’s chief of staff—is also reportedly on his way out after internal disputes and mounting criticism from within the building. According to Politico, there were clear signs of a power struggle, with one defense official stating: “Joe didn’t like those guys... it was a personality clash.” Musk, Yemen, and the Signal Chats The internal warfare at the Pentagon might have stayed hidden if it weren’t for what came next: the Signal chat leaks. First came The Atlantic's bombshell revelation that National Security Advisor Mike Waltz had included journalist Jeffrey Goldberg in an unclassified Signal group where top officials, including Hegseth, were discussing U.S. airstrikes in Yemen in real time. That same thread named Dan Caldwell as the go-to staffer for coordinating with the National Security Council—hardly the behavior of someone trying to leak classified info to the press. Then The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/20/us/politics/hegseth-yemen-attack-second-signal-chat.html) revealed that Hegseth shared additional operational details about Yemen in a separate Signal chat that included his wife and brother. These revelations have triggered an inspector general investigation into whether the Defense Secretary himself violated the Federal Records Act and endangered national security. That these messages were leaked is bad enough. That they were sent in unsecure chats including people with no clearance—like Hegseth’s spouse and lawyer—is a catastrophic breach. National security protocols exist for a reason. And the fact that someone like Caldwell is being scapegoated while these breaches are brushed aside is deeply telling. They’re scapegoating restraint advocates while ignoring actual breaches by the Secretary of Defense himself. And yet it was Caldwell—a known restraint advocate who had publicly called the Iraq War a "monstrous crime"—who got escorted out of the building last week. A Fight Over War and Peace This isn’t just about office politics. What we’re witnessing is an internal war over the future of American foreign policy. Caldwell has long opposed the "forever wars" and costly interventions. He was skeptical of U.S. military aid to Ukraine (another thing he and I have tremendous disagreements about) and warned against confrontation with Iran and China. He is part of a camp of "realists" in the GOP who believe in restraining U.S. military power and focusing on diplomacy. That has put him in direct conflict with the more hawkish neoconservative faction within Trump’s coalition. Responsible Statecraft reported that other restraint-oriented voices—like Elbridge Colby and Daniel Davis—have also been marginalized or attacked in recent months. And it’s worth noting that Elon Musk, whose influence over national security decisions has grown dramatically, stands to benefit from having those realists purged. So while some pundits frame this as just another round of Trumpworld infighting, it may actually be something more dangerous: an effort to silence dissenting voices and centralize influence over the Pentagon in the hands of Musk, Hegseth, and a loyalist inner circle. The end result of this ideological battle could reshape the U.S. military’s posture for years to come. And if the factional victors are more interested in loyalty than competence, in performative masculinity over diplomacy, and in billionaire influence over constitutional process, the consequences will be dire—not just for the troops, but for the country and the world. Why This Should Alarm You Even if you disagree with Dan Caldwell’s views, you should be alarmed by what’s happening. We’re watching a Defense Department abandon norms, purge experienced public servants, and allow personal vendettas to dictate national security decision-making. Civilian control of the military is being eroded in favor of personal loyalty. Strategic restraint is being cast as subversion. The most powerful military on Earth is being run like a group chat drama. And it’s clear that personal loyalty, not public service, is now the dominant currency inside the Pentagon. These developments don’t exist in isolation. They follow the firing of top uniformed leaders like the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the head of U.S. Cyber Command, and the U.S. military representative to NATO. They reflect a coordinated effort to centralize power, weaken oversight, and undermine the chain of command. And they portend a future where war and peace are decided not by deliberation, but by ego, ideology, and signal threads. I never thought I’d be writing in defense of someone from CVA. But this isn’t about policy anymore. It’s about whether we can trust the people running our military to act with integrity, transparency, and a basic respect for democracy. Right now, the answer is no. And that should scare the hell out of all of us. What You Can Do This isn’t just political infighting. It’s a breach of national security and a breakdown of public trust. If you want to take action, 5Calls (https://5calls.org/issue/pete-hegseth-resignation-signal-national-security) has launched a campaign demanding accountability for Hegseth, Waltz, and other Trump administration officials involved in the unsecured Signal chats that revealed U.S. military strike plans. 📞 Click here to contact your representatives (https://5calls.org/issue/pete-hegseth-resignation-signal-national-security) and demand real accountability. Thanks for reading On Offense with Kris Goldsmith! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to On Offense with Kris Goldsmith at onoffense.substack.com/subscribe (https://onoffense.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

17. 

    27 Mar 2025

    Fascism, Veterans, and the Fight Ahead: A Substack Live Conversation with Teddy Wilson

    Veteran journalist Teddy Wilson joins Kris Goldsmith to expose how the Trump administration is dismantling domestic terrorism prevention—and what it means for the rise of fascism in America. Veterans, hate groups, the FBI, and grassroots resistance all collide in this urgent convo. 🔗 Subscribe to Radical Reports: https://www.radicalreports.org (https://www.radicalreports.org)📚 (https://www.radicalreports.org) Start an Antifascist Book Club: https://veteransfightingfascism.org/book-club (https://www.radicalreports.org)📰 (https://www.radicalreports.org) Read more: https://onoffense.substack.com (https://www.radicalreports.org) 🎧 Subscribe for future episodes: On Offense: Conversations with Kris Goldsmith Get full access to On Offense with Kris Goldsmith at onoffense.substack.com/subscribe (https://onoffense.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

18. 

    10 Mar 2025

    How to Start an Antifascist Book Club: Building Local Power Through Reading and Action

    If you’ve been keeping up with my previous posts—"Organize Locally: How Antifascist Book Clubs Can Build Power" (https://onoffense.substack.com/p/organize-locally-how-antifascist) and "I Want You! To Start an Antifascist Book Club" (https://open.substack.com/pub/onoffense/p/i-want-you-to-start-an-antifascist?r=1dovxf&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false)—you already know why antifascist book clubs are so important right now. Since those posts went live, the response has been incredible—thousands of new readers, countless messages, and a lot of people asking the same question: How do I actually start an antifascist book club? So, let’s talk about it. This post is your guide to getting started. It's about building a local community that can resist authoritarianism and advance democratic values. And to make that a bit easier, we’ve added a ton of new resources on the Veterans Fighting Fascism website (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-home). I’ll be linking to them throughout this post. On Offense with Kris Goldsmith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Start with a Purpose, Not Just a Reading List Let’s get one thing straight: the goal isn’t to just sit around and talk about books. The goal is to transform that knowledge into action. When you’re setting up your book club, think about what you actually want to accomplish. Is your primary focus political education, mobilizing for direct action, or building coalitions with other groups in your area? Having a clear purpose doesn’t just keep meetings from turning into rambling discussions—it also gives people a reason to show up and keep showing up. Transforming knowledge into action can mean a lot of things. Maybe it’s organizing petition drives, showing up to town hall meetings, or starting community watch programs to monitor local extremist activities. Or it could mean using what you’ve learned about historical resistance movements to inspire strategies for confronting authoritarian tactics today—like challenging disinformation campaigns at school board meetings, organizing against voter suppression efforts, or pushing back on local policies that target marginalized communities. The point is to take what you learn and find ways to apply it directly to the issues facing your neighborhood. If you need help defining your mission, check out the How to Start an Antifascist Book Club (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/how-to-start-an-antifascist-book-club) guide on the VFF website. It’s All About the Core Group You don’t need a huge group to get started. A handful of dedicated people is more than enough to build something powerful. But it’s important to make sure everyone’s on the same page about what you’re trying to do. Forming a diverse group of locals can make your club a lot stronger. Each person will have their own priorities and insights based on their lifestyle and identity. For example, parents with children of different ages are more likely to know what’s happening at local schools and whether your club should be paying attention to school board meetings. Older folks in assisted living might have concerns about the rumors and disinformation that’s impacting their peers. Or consider veterans in your community—they might be tuned in to local VA policies or veterans’ organizations, which can open doors for coalition-building. And don’t forget about your local librarians—they’re often the unsung heroes of community organizing. Whether it’s helping you secure space for meetings, recommending books for your reading list, or even pointing you to local archives and research resources, librarians can be invaluable allies in getting your core group started. The Leader Guides (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-leader-guides) on the VFF website are intended to make your life as a Club Leader a lot easier. They’ve got agendas, key discussion questions, and even action steps to keep things on track. Choose Your Readings Like It Matters—Because It Does The books you choose aren’t just there to fill time—they’re shaping your group’s understanding of the threats we face and how to counter them. That’s why we encourage groups to start with the first six recommendations from the Antifascist Book Club Reading List (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-reading-list) and read them in order. These books cover the historical roots of authoritarianism, strategies for resistance, and practical lessons for defending democracy in the age of Trump. They’re designed to give your club a strong foundation—not just for discussing these threats, but for organizing against them effectively. The Leader Guides (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-leader-guides) are there to help you through these first readings. They include detailed agendas, key discussion questions, and actionable steps to turn what you’ve read into real-world strategies. We’re still working on publishing more guides, but what’s available now is more than enough to get your club started on solid ground. And once you’ve made it through those first six readings, that’s when things get interesting. At that point, your club should start operating like a mini democracy—discussing and voting on what to read next based on the interests and priorities of your members. This not only keeps people engaged but also ensures that your club continues to reflect the needs and concerns of your community. The updated Antifascist Book Club Reading List (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-reading-list) is packed with recommendations that cover everything from historical fascism to modern authoritarianism. Meetings That Matter Your meetings need to do more than just discuss books—they need to turn those discussions into action. This means creating space to talk about what’s happening in your local community and figuring out concrete steps your club can take to respond. Whether that’s organizing a teach-in about new voter suppression laws in your state, showing up to protest at city council meetings, or partnering with local organizations to support tenants’ rights, the goal is to make sure your club isn’t just learning but doing. And while it’s great to tackle national issues, don’t underestimate the impact of focusing locally. Authoritarianism doesn’t just show up in Washington—it creeps in through local policies, school boards, and county commissions. Keeping the focus local helps your club build real power and develop leaders who understand the unique challenges facing your community. The Leader Guides (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-leader-guides) break down how to structure meetings for maximum impact. It’s Not Just About Reading—It’s About Doing The real power of these clubs isn’t just in what they can do outside the room—it’s also in how they help people develop leadership skills they might not even know they have. As you plan and run meetings, you’ll start to see certain members naturally step up—maybe someone who was quiet at first becomes a reliable facilitator, or someone else turns out to be great at logistics and organizing events. Often, people recognize leadership traits in someone long before that person sees it in themselves. Your club can play a huge role in helping folks come out of their shell and realize their potential. Encouraging new leaders isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about making sure your club can keep growing and taking on bigger projects. When people see their contributions being valued, they’re more likely to stay engaged and take on more responsibilities. This leadership development doesn’t just benefit your club—it strengthens the broader antifascist movement. Leaders who cut their teeth running book club meetings can go on to organize protests, manage campaigns, or even run for local office. This is how we build a pipeline of leaders who understand both the theory and practice of fighting authoritarianism. This leadership development aspect is also where you’ll see that these clubs aren’t just about resisting authoritarianism—they’re about going on offense. By developing a new generation of leaders who are ready to take initiative, you’re forcing the fascists to respond to us, not the other way around. Thanks for reading On Offense with Kris Goldsmith! This post is public so feel free to share it. Stay Safe and Stay Smart Organizing against authoritarianism comes with risks. The VFF guide has a whole section on operational security that’s worth reading. First things first: protect your members’ privacy. This means using encrypted messaging apps like Signal for communications and being cautious about what information gets shared online. Avoid using social media to discuss sensitive details about your club’s plans or members. It’s also a good idea to designate a security officer within your group—someone responsible for staying up to date on best practices for both digital and physical security. This could involve everything from setting up secure email options like ProtonMail to teaching club members how to spot surveillance or handle encounters with law enforcement. And don’t overlook physical security at your meetings. If you’re gathering in person, consider venues that offer a degree of privacy, like a library meeting room that requires a sign-in or a community center where you can control who enters. The goal isn’t to create paranoia—it’s to make sure that everyone feels safe participating. When people feel protected, they’re more likely to stay engaged and contribute to the club’s efforts. Final Thoughts: This Is Just the Beginning If you’ve made it this far, you’re clearly serious about starting an Antifascist Book Club—and that’s a powerful first step. Now it’s time to put that energy into action. Here are three things you can do right now to get started: * Visit the How to Start an Antifascist Book Club (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/how-to-start-an-antifascist-book-club) guide for step-by-step instructions and resources to help you launch your club. * Check out the Leader Guides (https://www.veteransfightingfascism.org/antifascist-book-club-leader-guides) to help you plan your first few meetings and keep discussions focused and productive. * Share this post with at least one person who you think might be interested in joining or starting their own club. Building a movement starts with one-on-one conversations. So if you’re serious about making a difference, don’t wait. Get your core group together, set some clear goals, and start building power where you live. We've got some more exciting updates coming for the Antifascist Book Club that we'll be rolling out in the coming months. A lot of what we're dealing with here can be heavy. With that in mind, we're exploring some fun ways to help Antifascist Book Clubs with the socializing part—maybe even some bookmarks, leaflets, or other items featuring drink recipes to keep things lively. Nothing's set in stone yet, but stay tuned! Before you go, I’d love to hear from you: What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing in getting your Antifascist Book Club started—or, if you’ve already got one, what’s been your most successful strategy so far? Also, we’re curious—what kind of Veterans Fighting Fascism gear would you like to see in our store? — Kris Goldsmith P.S. Follow the brilliant creators 'Nope Brigade' (https://www.tiktok.com/@nopebrigade0) and Jonstertruck (https://www.tiktok.com/@jonstertruck) for some great TikTok videos on the history of fascism. On Offense with Kris Goldsmith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. 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Who has been a guest on On Offense: Conversations with Kris Goldsmith

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• antifascist veterans
• Reed Galen
• Sasha Ingber

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

31 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 11 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

9

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32