The Hard Question with Blanquita Cullum is an unbiased and impartial interview-based program, illuminating key issues pertaining to Washington politics, national defense, homeland security, energy, the environment, the economy, and much more.

Cullum (aka BQ) says that what “The Hard Question” is all about is “trying to help the audience to be empowered, to be able to hear a deeper level of a conversation on an issue that may impact them and change their life.” With decades of experience in broadcasting and government service, BQ knows the decision makers, and her guest list routinely includes the names you hear in the headlines: governors, senators, ambassadors, foreign heads of state state, as well as regular citizens. Recent guests include former commissioner of the New York Police Department Bernard Kerik, President of Americans for Tax Reform Grover Norquist, Talkers magazine publisher Michael Harrison, former governor of Missouri Eric Greitens, Texas Congressman Pete Olson, and Republican political strategist (and former HHS spokesperson) Michael Caputo.

“When someone listens to my show,” BQ says, “I’m going to have people that you’re not normally going to hear in other places. For example, if something’s breaking anywhere in the world, there is going to be a good chance, because of my connections with those journalists, I’m able to get our audience plugged in faster than anyone. From the right and left they trust me because they know that I’m not reckless. I’m not irresponsible. I’ve proven to all sides that I just want to be a good presenter of the truth, and the truth stands more than any political point of view.”

Cullum, who worked in both the George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush administrations, concedes that she leans “more to the right. ‘The Hard Question, on the other hand, is not my opinion,” she says. “It’s my ability to ask tough questions to people who are knowledgeable, make a difference, decision makers who have information that the public needs to have good, tough questions asked. “And the thing of it is, I’ve lived like a lot of people: I was a Democrat. I’ve been a Republican. But I’ve also been, like a lot of people right now, an Independent. I learned that politics is not a spectator sport. I like to empower my audience to know how to be able to communicate with the people that are making decisions about their lives. And sometimes people are not going to agree with me, but the fact of the matter is, that doesn’t matter. It’s not about me. It’s about getting to the core of the topic.”

Cullum says that as a broadcaster, times like this fortify her resolve to get information and good ideas out to the public. “I’ve been in precarious moments,” she says. “I was in front of the Pentagon on 9/11. And here I am at this crazy time during this pandemic, and I’m in D.C. again. And I know that it is significant to have a fearless attitude to know that we will overcome it, but we must know the truth. It’s not as if we want to blame this one or that one. We want to know the truth to be able to empower ourselves to be strong to do better, and when we come out of it, we’ll fix what we can and then we just get on with it. And I feel blessed — I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to be on the SmartTalk network. I’m very grateful for that.”

S U B S C R I B E

ABOUT BLANQUITA

The Honorable Blanquita Walsh Cullum is an award-winning broadcast journalist and host of “The Hard Question.” She is also the president and co-founder of Voices Against Trafficking. For eight years, she served as a governor on the United States Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG). When she was nominated by President George W. Bush and confirmed by the United States Senate, she became the first Hispanic woman and the first radio talk show host to serve on the BBG.

The late U.S. Senator Tom Coburn placed a tribute to her in the Congressional Record for her commitment and leadership during her tenure at the BBG. She subsequently served as chairman of the Committees on Radio Free Europe, Radio Free Asia, and the Middle East Broadcast Network. Recently she was inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame and named “Champion of Radio” by the Multicultural Correspondents Association. She is a regular analyst on the BBC and other media outlets and has written op-eds on the effects that brutal regimes across the world have on the freedom of speech. Her articles have been published in The Washington Times, Roll Call and The Weekly Standard.  Cullum has been lauded for her stands on human rights, equal rights for women and children, and freedom of speech. She currently resides in Virginia.

EPISODES

WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, 2022

As the clock keeps ticking toward the midterm elections, will the political parties change their strategy to maintain or assume control of the Congress? Do they understand the voters, or are they clueless or arrogant? Will the Durham investigation hurt or even sink the Democrats in the upcoming elections? Joining Blanquita to discuss all this and more is former Congressman Doug Collins (R-GA).

Doug Collins is a “common-sense conservative” and host of “The Doug Collins Podcast” on the Salem Podcast Network. As a former congressman and ranking member of the U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary, Collins knows what it means to fight for what he believes in. His first book, The Clock and The Calendar, offers an insider perspective on the first impeachment of Donald Trump. Prior to his time in Congress, Collins served in the Georgia state legislature. He also served as a U.S. Air Force Reserve chaplain, which included a deployment to Iraq in 2008-2009. As a lieutenant colonel, Collins remains active in the Air Force Reserve. He is a graduate of the University of North Georgia, Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022

When chaos abounds, our attention is scattered. We have plenty of it! Ukraine, Title 42 about to end, our Southern borders erupting, the shocking leak of a document that could overturn Roe vs. Wade causing protests, more protests, and more protests. People are angry! Americans are turning against Americans. The issues are monumental: Parents fighting to reclaim their parental rights, freedom of speech and religion vilified -- some want them nullified and some cry that the Constitution is irrelevant. Of course, there is that pesky problem of the economy moving closer to the edge of a steep cliff. Many fear we are at the tipping point. What is in plain sight that we are missing? A solution? BQ is joined by Lt. Col. (Retired) Tony Shaeffer, President of the London Center for Policy Research to discuss.

Tony Shaeffer is a New York Times bestselling author and CIA-trained intelligence operations officer with over 35 years of experience in global and national security. In his think tank work he has been adviser to senior members of the White House, the intelligence community, Pentagon and key members of Congress. He also works with National Geographic as an advising producer and co-producer of the series “Chain of Command.” In 2017 he became the Homeland Security adviser to the Stafford County Sheriff’s Department in Virginia and works as its member of the NYPD Counterterrorism Bureau’s expanded task force. He is the author of Operation Dark Heart: Spycraft and Special Ops on the Frontlines of Afghanistan — And the Path to Victory.

MONDAY, JANUARY 31, 2022

Today on “The Hard Question,” Blanquita Cullum is joined by Mario H. Lopez, president of the Hispanic Leadership Fund, an advocacy organization that promotes liberty, opportunity, and prosperity for all in public policy. He says the federal government is working toward reinstating “fiduciary rule” that would hurt underserved communities. Hispanic and Black families typically earn less than others, and their employers are less likely to offer 401(k)s or other retirement savings plans. In fact, nearly two-thirds of Hispanic families and more than half of Black families don’t have any form of retirement savings account. The federal government move to impose rules that could hurt the ability of many Americans to save for their retirement could be devastating.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022

This time on "The Hard Question," Blanquita Cullum is joined by senior White House correspondent for Newsmax John Gizzi to discuss the controversial press conference President Joe Biden had Wednesday, his first press conference in months. The president was chastised by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his government, who rebuked Biden’s comments about how the U.S. would respond to a "minor incursion" by Russia, tweeting that there "are no minor incursions." President Biden had to backtrack and assert his support for Ukraine — a stumble and nationally a political rumble. What's ahead?

TUESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2022

This week on “The Hard Question” Blanquita starts the new year by interviewing the outstanding and visionary human rights filmmaker Leon Lee. Lee’s new movie, “Unsilenced,” will be released January 21. It’s based on the true-life story of the crackdown by the Chinese Communist Party and what a group of students risk to fight for freedom. A very powerful interview and a must-see film.

ABOUT THE FILM

Based on true events, “Unsilenced” follows Wang, a Chinese student and Falun Gong practitioner, and his friends as they attempt to navigate the 1999 order that banned the spiritual practice in China and remains in effect to this day. New lies and coverups appear around every turn as the Chinese Communist Party attempts to quell the rising voices of dissent, deploying every form of propaganda and suppression that it can muster. With the risk of prison, torture, and even death looming over Wang and his compatriots, they must all make sacrifices to protect the truth and expose the government’s human-rights abuses. {Watch the trailer}

ABOUT LEON LEE

Leon Lee is an award-winning filmmaker who explores intriguing stories that help shine a light on human rights issues. His debut documentary Human Harvest, which was eight years in the making, exposed China's illegal organ trade. It has been viewed by millions worldwide and received a coveted Peabody Award. Lee's documentary Avenues of Escape(2016) was the recipient of four Leo Awards including Best Feature Documentary. His recent documentary Letter from Masanjia premiered at Hot Docs 2018 and has since won awards from festivals around the world. His goal as a filmmaker is to create an impact by bringing true stories to life in unforgettable ways, sparking vital discussion on topics of international importance.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021

Joining Blanquita Cullum today on "The Hard Question" is attorney Jim Wholey, former chief of staff of the late Senator Bob Dole. Are Americans being encouraged to diminish the people we have traditionally honored as heroes?

Also: Nina May, director of "Daily Bread," a faith-based post-apocalyptic drama. When this series first aired many said it was far-fetched. How about now?

MORE ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUESTS

Jim Wholey has broad experience at the intersection of federal government, national security and international business. His specific focus is on the legislative, policy and compliance issues involved in international investment, trade and business development. Through his international business and federal government relations practice, he assists clients with transnational compliance matters (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, EAR, ITAR, export licensing and involvement with various sanctions regimes) and works frequently with the administration and Capitol Hill. He spent more than a decade as a senior staff member for several U.S. senators, including three years as chief of staff to then-Senate Leader Bob Dole (R-KS), for whom he also handled trade and telecommunications issues.

Nina May is a writer, director, and producer. Her credits include “Life Fine Tuned” (2011), “Daily Bread” (2017), “First Lady” (2019), and “Emancipation, Revelation, Revolution” (2006).

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2021

This week “The Hard Question with Blanquita Cullum” welcomes the founder of Voices Against Trafficking, Andi Buerger JD.

Andi Buerger is one of the world's most fearless fighters against human trafficking. Through her organizations Voices Against Trafficking and Beulah's Place she has rescued hundreds of innocents from the multibillion-dollar transnational criminal industry. Voices Against Trafficking (VAT) has published a landmark work, Voices Against Trafficking: The Strength of Many Voices Speaking As One. This searing publication tells the harrowing story of the criminal global human trafficking industry through the voices of both victims and rescuers. It is a painful story, but one that must be heard.

friDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2021

This time "The Hard Question" focuses on the divide in America — can it be resolved? Two very important legal cases have many in the country on edge. The Supreme Court is reviewing a Mississippi law that could that could impact Roe v. Wade. The justices will craft a decision that could dramatically limit abortion rights in the United States. In the hearing Wednesday, Justice Clarence Thomas asked if a mother has a right to ingest drugs and harm a pre-viable baby. The protests against and in favor of abortion rights are loud and passionate outside the Supreme Court Building. Terry Beatley, author and journalist, was there Wednesday and she joins BQ.

Later in the episode, the trial of Jussie Smollett, the former “Empire” star who allegedly staged a “hoax” hate crime attack, is underway. Will the sympathy of the media be at odds with the outcome of the decision rendered by jury? Who determines justice, the courts or the mob? Kevin McGary, president and co-founder of Every Black Life Matters, gives insight.

MORE ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUESTS

Terry's Mission is to educate, unify, and restore America around a culture of life ethic by fulfilling the promise made to Dr. Bernard N. Nathanson, co-founder of NARAL, who deeply regretted unleashing abortion onto America and deceiving the public with lies that he perpetrated. Terry is the president of the Hosea Initiative and author of What If We’ve Been Wrong.

Kevin McGary is an entrepreneur, author, and public speaker. In the arena of civic engagement, he serves as president and co-founder of Every Black Life Matters and chairman of the Frederick Douglass Foundation of California and is an executive with the Douglass Leadership Institute and the Northstar Leadership PAC. As a professional, Kevin has worked the past 35 years in information technology. He leads a collection of proactive individuals committed to developing innovative and new approaches to today's sociopolitical issues, and with the assistance of elected officials and myriad of community activists, he lectures and provides workshops about todays most perplexing issues. Kevin is the author of The War On Women From "The Root" to "The Fruit!": Which Side Are You On? and Justly Justice: Social Justice, Racial Justice, Human Rights…Done!

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2021

This week on “The Hard Question,” Blanquita is joined by former chief of Border Patrol Rodney Scott, currently a distinguished senior fellow for border security at the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF). Scott calls President Biden's proposed payouts to immigrants separated at the border during the Trump administration "ludicrous," and warns that border agents are overwhelmed and demoralized. BQ goes in depth and they discuss recent comments by the president of Mexico, who has threatened Republican congressmen to support amnesty for 11 million migrants who have illegally entered the United States. What does that mean?

Prior to joining TPPF, Scott served as the 24th chief of the United States Border Patrol. Since first joining the Border Patrol in 1992, his assignments included serving as chief patrol agent of the El Centro (California) Sector, assistant chief in U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Office of Anti-Terrorism, and director of the Incident Management and Operations Coordination Division at CBP Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021

This time on "The Hard Question," Blanquita welcomes back former Special Agent Eric Caron, author of Switched On: The Heart and Mind of a Special Agent. They discuss the influence of China on previous U.S. administrations and how it has affected our security, economy, and daily life. In-depth information and very insightful!

Eric J. Caron is a dynamic former U.S. diplomat and U.S. special agent (25 years) who successfully conducted and managed covert operations relating to national security, transnational crime, and money laundering. He has held senior positions within Homeland Security and INTERPOL. Eric’s accomplishments have been highlighted by media outlets from around the world and he received the U.S. Attorney General’s Award for his “endeavors in furthering the interest of U.S. national security.”

In his book Switched On, Eric provides a glimpse of a dramatic life few have seen. His cases ranged from terrorist threats, transnational crimes, U.S. defense contractors, and the CIA going rogue, to the WMD programs of Iran, China, and Russia. He also speaks candidly about his own struggles with PTSD and how being “Switched On” is a coat of armor that saved his life. He is currently an international security consultant and often appears as a security guest on various local and national media programs sharing his experience and views on policing and national security. Eric's website is Switchedonlife.com; that's where you can purchase his book and learn how to stay Switched On in life!

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2021

What is the greatest peril facing America? Is the American public worn out from chaos, pandemic, isolation, fear, and a serious lack of trust in government? Do our elected leaders only want short-term, perceived political victories—which send a message of weakness to our enemies and our allies?

Joining Blanquita to talk about it is Bryan Griffin, distinguished fellow at the London Center for Policy Research, and author of "The Encyclopedia of Militant Islam."

Bryan Griffin is a lawyer, writer, and specialist in American foreign policy in the Middle East. Born in Florida, Bryan received a Masters of International Affairs with a specialty in the Middle East from Columbia University in New York City. He holds a Juris Doctorate, Masters of Management, and Bachelors in Classical History and Political Science from the University of Florida. On November 15th, 2013, Bryan was sworn in as an attorney by United States Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas at the Supreme Court.  Bryan is also a Christian speaker who has encouraged others in faith around the world while on mission work and through guided tours in Israel. Currently, he serves as the national field director for the Maccabee Task Force Foundation, a nonprofit based in Las Vegas, Nevada, organized to lead American support for one of its most important allies, the nation of Israel.  Bryan is also part of the founding team of the Emergency Committee for America, an issues-based advocacy group that seeks to push back against the most excessive and egregious narratives of the day. Bryan is focused on bringing conversation about the size and scope of government to the forefront of American political dialogue, especially among the millennial and younger generations. To this end, Bryan regularly writes and contributes op-eds and thought pieces to a variety of print and radio media that can be found here: www.bryandgriffin.com.

Tuesday, SEPTEMBER 16, 2021

“The Hard Question with Blanquita Cullum” returns!

Who do you trust? Allegations surround Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Mark Milley who "called his Chinese counterpart twice in the waning months of Donald Trump’s presidency to secretly reassure Beijing that the U.S. would not attack,” according to a Milley spokesman. How serious is this? President Biden said he has "full confidence" in General Milley. Others demand that he resign, and even the word “treason” has been mentioned in relation to his actions. We also talk about Americans and allies left in Afghanistan, North Korea launching a missile, and China making advances toward Taiwan.

Joining BQ to talk about it, Eric J. Caron, a dynamic former U.S. diplomat and special agent (for 25 years) who successfully conducted and managed covert operations relating to national security, transnational crime, and money laundering. He has held senior positions within Homeland Security and INTERPOL and is the author of Switched On - The Heart and Mind of a Special Agent. Then Lt. Col. Anthony (Tony) Shaffer (retired) joins BQ. He is the president of the London Center for Policy Research, a New York Times bestselling author, and CIA-trained intelligence operations officer with 35 years of experience in global and national security.

For previous episodes, please visit The Hard Question’s SoundCloud page.