I’m Derrick Holder, a retired Marine, husband, father, paralegal, and the host of Hold ’em Accountable.

I created this podcast because I believe democracy works best when ordinary people stay informed, ask tough questions, and demand accountability from those in power. Too often, politics is treated like a team sport where loyalty matters more than truth. Hold ’em Accountable exists to challenge that idea.

This show is not about defending political parties, candidates, or ideologies. It is about examining the issues that affect our daily lives and holding elected officials, government agencies, corporations, and institutions accountable for the decisions they make. If a policy helps people, we'll talk about it. If a policy hurts people, we'll talk about that too.

Through interviews, deep-dive investigations, candidate forums, and issue-focused discussions, I explore topics ranging from healthcare, veterans' issues, education, voting rights, and economic policy to local Indiana politics, national debates, and the stories that often get overlooked by traditional media.

As someone who has experienced homelessness, served in the military, struggled with physical and mental health challenges, and spent years working in public advocacy, I bring a perspective grounded in real-life experience rather than political talking points. I believe the best conversations happen when people are willing to listen, learn, and challenge their own assumptions.

Whether I'm interviewing candidates, speaking with advocates, breaking down complicated policy issues, or asking the questions others won't, the goal remains the same: helping people better understand the world around them so they can make informed decisions for themselves.

At the end of the day, Hold ’em Accountable is about empowering citizens, elevating voices that deserve to be heard, and creating a space where facts matter more than spin.

Thank you for being part of this community.