In this "working vacation" edition of What’s On Your Mind, guest host Kevin Flynn checks in live from the Valley of the Sun in Phoenix, Arizona. While the North Country grapples with a brutal "Widowmaker" winter storm and jackknifed semis, Kevin is poolside with "Hot Tub Vinny" (Vince Webker) of Hot Spring Spas and Pool Tables 2.
The episode explores the stark contrast between the booming Southwest and the "hemorrhaging" populations of California, Minnesota, and New York. Kevin shares personal stories from his road trip through Las Vegas and San Diego, noting the consistent trend of former West Coasters fleeing high taxes for the zero-tax havens of Nevada and Texas. The duo also dives deep into the science of wellness—from why a quality hot tub is a "no-brainer" for the North Dakota climate to the life-extending benefits of a daily sauna session. Plus, a look at the staggering real estate shifts in Manhattan and an upcoming push at UND to solve rural nursing shortages.
Standout Moments & Timestamps
[00:03:00] The California Escape Kevin recounts his trip through Las Vegas and San Diego, where every person he met at a local dog park had the same story: they had "escaped" California to avoid the crushing taxes, fees, and rising crime that have transformed the state over the last 20 years.
[00:04:15] The Zillow Metric: Manhattan’s 100% Surge A shocking look at the New York real estate market. Kevin reveals that in just two weeks, the number of properties for sale in Manhattan has more than doubled, featuring a record-breaking $128 million condo as the "rich people" flee potential new tax hikes.
[00:05:50] Hot Tub Vinny on Wellness Reality Vince Webker explains that people don't buy hot tubs for backyard decor; they buy them for physical, mental, and relational wellness. He discusses the 49-year history of his company and why Hot Spring Spas remain the world leader.
[00:06:50] The "Cut-In-Half" Comparison A "no-brainer" moment for North Dakotans: Kevin describes seeing a hot tub cut in half at a home show, revealing the critical difference in insulation and fittings that allow certain brands to survive the brutal Northern winters while others freeze up.
[00:09:05] The Sauna as a "D-flammatory" Device Vince breaks down the staggering health data from Finland, noting that sitting in a sauna 4–7 times a week can reduce heart attack risk by 50% and Alzheimer’s risk by 66% by acting as a powerful anti-inflammatory tool.
[00:15:20] Solving the Nursing Shortage A preview of the segment with UND’s Dr. Dawn Denny, detailing a new program designed to "knock it out of the park" by addressing the critical rural nursing challenges facing North Dakota.
[00:15:55] Polar Plunge for the Kids A call to action for the upcoming Boys and Girls Club fundraiser in Detroit Lakes. Kevin recalls his four previous plunges into frozen lakes and encourages listeners to join the "beautiful, wild" event this Saturday.