Archives: Episodes

Join the Steve Hallstrom Show for a rapid-fire rundown of the day's top stories. The show kicks off with a discussion about the bitter cold weather, driving conditions, and a look at the almanac, including the earliest sunset times of the year.

The conversation quickly shifts to major news headlines: the shocking arrest of a 13-year-old Moorhead student for possessing a large quantity of pills suspected to contain fentanyl, a proposed Fargo housing complex pulling its application after being denied tax breaks, and Aldevron announcing a second round of significant employee layoffs. The host also touches on the political front, discussing President Trump overturning a Biden-era land management plan impacting North Dakota's energy development.

Michelle Comer of High Road Partners joins the show to offer expert HR advice on job postings, hiring processes, and navigating EEO guidelines, noting that employers generally don't have to post every job. Later, the host tackles a CNBC article proclaiming single-income households a "bygone era" and asks listeners for their personal stories and perspective on this evolving American dream. Finally, there's a quick note on Minnesota Governor Tim Walls hiring a new "Director of Integrity" and a controversial comment made by a pro football player about a childhood game.

Key Moments

• 13-Year-Old Arrested with Fentanyl Pills: A 13-year-old student at Horizon Middle School in Moorhead was arrested for first-degree possession of a controlled substance after being found with 1,500 pills, valued at over $35,000, that authorities believe contain fentanyl. The host expresses outrage and concern about who supplied the child.

• Fargo Development Canceled After Tax Break Denial: The Annex Group rescinded its application for a $94 million apartment complex in downtown Fargo after the Fargo Public School Board and Cass County Commission voted against a 15-year tax abatement, suggesting that pushback against these deals can, in fact, stop projects.

• Aldevron Layoffs and the Tightening Job Market: Fargo-based pharmaceutical company Aldevron announced an additional 7% workforce reduction, following a 5% cut earlier in the year, totaling 120 employees. The host uses this as an example of a broader 2025 trend where companies are getting "tough on your employee count" due to inflation and automation.

• HR Rules on Job Postings: HR expert Michelle Comer clarifies that, generally, employers are not required to post a job opening, with exceptions for things like union contracts or federal contractor status, emphasizing the importance of company culture and objective hiring practices.

• The "Bygone Era" of Single-Income Households: Discussion on a CNBC article arguing that a single breadwinner supporting a middle-class lifestyle is a thing of the past due to rising costs for health care, education, and housing.

• North Dakota Energy Development Saved: President Trump signed a bill overturning a Bureau of Land Management plan from the Biden administration that would have closed off leasing to 45% of potential oil and gas acreage and nearly 99% of federal coal acreage in North Dakota.

In this Thursday episode, Kevin Flynn hosts solo for Scott Hennen (who is on a DC listener trip), with a special appearance by Jay Thomas. The discussion heats up over local Fargo politics, the massive Somali fraud case in Minnesota, and a judge who overturned a related conviction. They also delve into the legal controversy surrounding Fargo's needle exchange program.

Fargo/Minnesota Corruption & Fraud

• Needle Exchange Controversy (0:04:36 - 0:05:14): Fargo City Commissioner Michelle Turnberg's investigation reveals that the Harm Reduction Center has handed out over one million syringes in two years, with 300,000 unreturned. Kev and Jay criticize the program as "enabling" drug use.

• Massive Somali Fraud and Treason (0:06:55 - 0:08:16): Discussion turns to the widespread Somali fraud in Minnesota, noting the multiple-wives-and-benefits scam and a former TSA agent's claim of weekly cash-filled suitcases leaving the Minneapolis airport. A caller and the hosts link the activities of the Democratic Party and figures like George Soros to treason.

• Woke Judge Overturns Fraud Conviction (0:12:44 - 0:13:58): Jay Thomas and a texter discuss a "woke judge," Sarah West, in Minnesota who overturned a $7.2 million Medicaid fraud conviction against Fata Yusef and his wife, a decision that has sparked widespread outrage, with even Attorney General Ellison planning an appeal.

• The Problem with Fargo's Needle Program Legality (0:20:53 - 0:22:15): The hosts investigate the legality of the city distributing paraphernalia. Jay finds that state or local laws authorize syringe services programs (SSPs), providing an exemption for participants and staff from drug paraphernalia laws, a decision approved by Republican-led lawmakers in North Dakota.

Local Fargo & Regional Issues

• Fargo Mayor Mahoney's Failures (0:15:20 - 0:16:32): A caller criticizes Fargo Mayor Mahoney for "gone off the rails," particularly concerning his handling of the Harwood annexation issue with Applied Digital and pushing for a questionable $93 million "affordable living" apartment complex.

• Tyreek Jones Debacle (0:28:09 - 0:29:43): Kev and Jay discuss the Fargo police's handling of the multiple murder case prime suspect, Tyreek Jones. After four months in hiding, Jones was arrested, questioned, and released when his version of events matched security footage, despite having outstanding warrants.

🏒 Giveaways, Outdoors, and Culture

• UND Hockey Ticket Giveaway (0:01:46 - 0:02:19): Kevin announces a giveaway for UND Hockey tickets: a four-pack for Friday and a pair for Saturday. Listeners can text "Go Sioux" or "Sue Hockey Rocks" to 701-237-1590 to enter.

• Dean's Brutal Weekend Weather (0:10:07 - 0:11:06): Dean Wysocki, the chief meteorologist, reports that dangerous wind chills (20 to 35 below) will make Saturday "brutal" across the state, but temperatures will rebound to the 30s and 40s by early next week.

• The Wizard of Oz at The Sphere (0:30:19 - 0:30:52): Jay Thomas mentions his upcoming trip to Las Vegas to see "The Wizard of Oz" at the Sphere, noting the high-tech, immersive experience has received rave reviews.

• Lighthouse Commodities: Market Agent (0:39:13 - 0:41:40): Kevin talks with David Spickler of Lighthouse Commodities, who explains how his firm acts as an "agent" for farmers to help them navigate volatile grain markets, focusing on soybeans and corn.

This Thursday edition of the Need to Know Morning Show with Alex and Kev features a mixed bag of cold weather, political commentary, and outdoor tips. The hosts discuss the approaching cold snap and the controversial seizure of an oil tanker, along with a fun giveaway and ice fishing forecasts.

❄️ Weather, Giveaways & Show Highlights

• Welcome and Weather Check (0:00 - 0:01:22): Hosts Alex and Kev kick off the show with an initial weather update, noting slick roads and an incoming chance of snow, with temperatures dropping below zero over the weekend before a surprising warm-up next Tuesday.

• The 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway (0:02:45 - 0:04:22): Today's prize is a $250 gift card to Grease Monkey! Listeners need to call in when they hear the "Buddy the Elf" clip screaming, "Santa, I know him."

• Viral North Dakota Trooper Video (0:04:46 - 0:05:43): The hosts manage to play a clip of a North Dakota trooper giving winter storm safety tips using Gen Z/Gen X slang, which has gone viral with over 1.7 million views.

• National Days (0:05:49 - 0:06:56): It's National Stretching Day, the birthday of UNICEF, and International Mountain Day.

💥 Political Commentary: Oil Tanker Seizure & Minnesota Politics

• Seizure of the Venezuelan Oil Tanker (0:06:40 - 0:09:12): A main point of discussion is the U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, which the hosts attribute to President Trump's efforts to curb drug trafficking and narco-terrorism. They reference the TiVo segment coming up.

• Ilhan Omar's Net Worth Discussion (0:17:15 - 0:18:49): The show delves into the significant increase in Representative Ilhan Omar and her husband's net worth, with one report showing a 3,500% increase compared to the previous year, much of it attributed to her husband's two businesses.

• TiVo: Analyzing the Tanker Seizure (0:28:04 - 0:31:41): The hosts play several clips from Brett Baer, Jillian Turner, Stephen Miller, and Trace Gallagher with Steve Yates, all discussing the U.S. seizing the illicit Venezuelan oil tanker. The consensus is that the action serves as a "show of force" to pressure the Maduro regime and disrupt illicit financing of terrorism and drug trafficking.

🎣 Outdoors & Ice Fishing Report

• Feral Swine and Livestock Disease (0:18:50 - 0:20:47): Bridget Riedel joins to talk about a potential feral swine problem in Montana and the monitoring of the Vesicular Stomatitis respiratory disease outbreak in the Southwestern U.S., which is impacting livestock movement and rodeo events.

• Steve Carney's Early Ice Fishing Tips (0:35:05 - 0:38:00): Outdoors expert Steve Carney warns that the recent snow may complicate early ice access, creating potential slush issues. He offers tips on choosing the right portable ice shack (ranking Otter, Clam, and Eskimo) and the importance of using a cover to keep out snow.

🎰 Travel & Wrap-up

• Alex's Vegas Trip (0:15:58 - 0:16:11, 0:32:04 - 0:32:12): Alex is leaving for Vegas, hoping to escape the frigid weather, which includes wind chills of 20 below.

• Grease Monkey Winner and Final Weather (0:38:58 - 0:39:46): The show announces Dell as the winner of the Grease Monkey gift card and wraps up with the very cold forecast for the weekend, followed by the Tuesday high of "near 40."

Host Steve Hallstrom dives into a packed show from Watford City, North Dakota, reflecting on the past year and tackling a jammed news cycle.

Key Moments:

• Fargo's Needle Distribution Program: Fargo City Commissioner Michelle Turnberg is demanding answers about a city program that has distributed almost a million needles to residents over the past two years, questioning the funding and what's being done with the sheer volume of needles.

• North Dakota SNAP Changes: North Dakota received federal approval to restrict SNAP benefits (food stamps) from being used to buy candy, pop, and other junk foods. Hallstrom praises the Trump administration for "restoring order" and ensuring taxpayer money is used for "real food."

• Mike Lindell Enters Minnesota Governor Race: MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell has officially launched his campaign for Minnesota governor, promising to "fix the state's problems, run the government like a business, and not back down from his election fraud theories." He joins a crowded field of GOP candidates.

• Packet Digital Success Story: Hallstrom interviews Terry Zimmerman, CEO of Fargo-based Packet Digital, a fast-growing company that builds batteries and power systems for autonomous systems like drones and satellites. The company recently secured a significant, up to $50 million, procurement award from the Department of War for American-made batteries.

• The Minnesota Somali Fraud Saga Continues: A former TSA agent at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport alleged that she routinely saw Somali men traveling in pairs with suitcases filled with millions of dollars in cash, suggesting this was a major source of money laundering that she believes went to fund foreign terrorism, specifically Al-Shabaab.

• GOP Governor Candidate Forum Breakdown: Hallstrom gives high points from the first GOP Governor's Candidate Forum in Minnesota, noting that nearly all candidates are seeking President Trump's endorsement, and some took issue with Trump's past comments on the Somali community.

• A Personal Reflection: The host shares a personal reflection on the unexpected death of a dear college friend at age 60, encouraging listeners to reach out to their loved ones and honor their friendships before it's too late.

The Need to Know Morning Show kicks off with a "Hump Day" check-in, focusing heavily on the snowy weather and its impact on the Fargo-Moorhead area, with up to 11 inches reported north of the city. The hosts repeatedly stress the importance of caution on icy roads and warn listeners not to "crowd the plow."

The main topic is the economy, spurred by Donald Trump's recent campaign speech and comments from National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett. The consensus from the economists is that while consumers are still feeling financial pain from the "hole" dug by the previous administration, all major economic indicators, including GDP growth and upcoming tax cuts, point to a strong rebound, particularly in 2026. The conversation also features Charles Payne's take on the housing and job markets, arguing that secured borders are leading to higher wages and lower rents.

Other segments include a check-in with the Cass County Sheriff and the Minnesota Highway Patrol on road conditions, an Agribusiness update on new Case IH tractors and the growing need for tech-savvy farmers, and a brief discussion on a potential hostile takeover of Paramount that could reshape the streaming landscape. The show also features the "12 Days of Christmas" giveaway and a request for a new Christmas song, "Mistletoe Tipsy" by North Dakota group Tiger Lily Gold.

Standout Moments

• 0:00:54: Weather update confirms "all of winter" has arrived, with a high of one below Fahrenheit forecast for Saturday.

• 0:02:59: Hosts emphasize that every economist is excited about the future economy, citing the "big beautiful bill" and upcoming tax breaks.

• 0:04:47: Discussion about New York City's public safety transition team being led by a formerly incarcerated rapper.

• 0:07:37: Dean Wysocki gives the snow report, confirming 3.8 inches set a record for December 9th snowfall.

• 0:11:39: Kevin Hassett argues that Joe Biden "dug a big hole" in the economy, and while progress is being made, a typical family still lost $\$3,000$ in purchasing power under the Biden administration.

• 0:19:10: Bridget Riedel's Agribusiness update on the new Farmall M-Series tractors and the changing labor needs on farms, suggesting former "big gamers" could be the next generation of robotics operators.

• 0:22:15: The hosts and Sheriff Jesse Jahner remind listeners that despite owning a four-wheel drive vehicle, you "can't stop any faster" on ice.

• 0:31:37: Charles Payne uses the analogy of America waking up "on a 100 story of the Empire State Building" under Biden to describe the economic crisis.

• 0:32:51: Payne says secured borders and job creation are allowing wages to go up and rents to come down, especially in big cities.

Host Kevin Flynn, filling in for Scott Hennen, leads a lively discussion on "What's On Your Mind," covering everything from winter weather and local attractions to national politics and personal finance.

The show opens with local news, including the favorable LRC forecast for snow totals this winter and the ranking of Devil's Lake as the number one ice fishing destination in the US. The main focus, however, is the economy, featuring clips from economist Steve Moore and a call from a listener, Dave Hughes, who both dissect the financial landscape, particularly the impact of tax cuts, government spending, and the high cost of living in "blue states."

Listeners weigh in heavily via text and calls on a range of topics, including the need for more diesel refineries, the controversy surrounding the Minneapolis police chief's stance on ICE, and the alleged political activities of Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar. A former Congressional candidate and a current State Senate candidate for Minnesota's District 4 call in to share their perspectives on the state's political climate.

A special remote check-in from Scott Hennen provides a quick update on a listener Christmas tour in Washington D.C., highlighting visits to the Smithsonian museums, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Lincoln Memorial.

In the final segment, Kevin is joined by money manager Brian Cronk to discuss market trends, the impact of recent political news on the economy, and the crucial habits of financial discipline, such as paying down debt and investing early, to secure long-term wealth.

Standout Moments

• 0:00:46: Discussion of the LRC weather forecast, predicting 80-90% of average snow totals this winter.

• 0:01:21: Shoutout to Devil's Lake for being ranked the #1 ice fishing destination in the US.

• 0:03:00: Economist Steve Moore discusses the "red-hot" economy and the upcoming tax cuts, claiming the average middle-class family will pay $\$1,500$ to $\$2,000$ less in income taxes in 2026.

• 0:04:19: Dave Hughes calls in, agreeing with the economic optimism but arguing that the core problem of Congressional spending is "completely broken."

• 0:10:04: A listener, Andrew, calls in expressing disappointment over the Zach Brown Band's recent performance imagery at the Vegas Sphere, claiming they've "gone to the woke side."

• 0:16:32: Scott Hennen checks in from Washington D.C. with an update on the listener Christmas tour, mentioning visits to Arlington National Cemetery and a special briefing at the White House political shop.

• 0:22:42: Brian Cronk joins to discuss the market, agreeing that the economy is poised for significant growth, and highlights the value of owning companies that supply industries (like in the gold rush analogy) rather than the end-product builders.

• 0:26:54: Brian Cronk emphasizes the importance of financial discipline: "Sacrificing a little bit now if that means you can live better later on."

Kevin Flynn and Alex Taylor tackle a snowy Tuesday morning, with the conversation dominated by the deepening Minnesota welfare fraud scandal, a new aid package for farmers from the Trump administration, and an imminent winter storm bringing a messy mix of precip to the region.

Standout Moments

• Massive Somali Fraud Scandal: The show leads with strong criticism regarding the alleged multi-billion dollar fraud in Minnesota, stating that $75\%$ of the Somali population in Minnesota is on welfare, and suggesting state leaders are "fully complicit". (1:49 / 2:54)

• Omar’s "Face the Nation" Interview Under Fire: Clips of Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's interview are played, where she calls allegations linking the fraud to terrorism a "failure of the FBI". She defends herself by claiming to have sent a letter to the Secretary of Agriculture about the "reprehensible fraud" and returned campaign donations, but Kevin and co-hosts from The Five call for the receipts and question her lack of outrage as an American taxpayer. (11:00 / 27:08)

• Stephen Miller's Identity: Ilhan Omar attacks Stephen Miller's immigration comments by invoking "white supremacist rhetoric" that "reminds me of the way the Nazis described Jewish people". Kevin and the co-hosts note that Miller is, in fact, Jewish. (14:52 / 29:33)

• Weather: The "Messy Mix" Hits: Meteorologist Dean Wysocki breaks down the winter storm, warning that a "messy mix" of snow, sleet, and freezing rain will make the evening commute "a mess". He also notes the distinct line on the radar separating rain to the west (Jamestown, Valley City) from snow to the north (Grand Forks). (6:43 / 22:20)

• Trump's $\$12$ Billion Farm Aid: The Trump administration announced a $\$12$ billion trade aid package for farmers, with $\$11$ billion going to a newly designed "farmer bridge assistance program" for row crop farmers. Farmers are given a deadline of Friday, December 19, for accurate acreage reporting at the FSA office. (19:07)

• A Snowblower for the Texan: A listener named Rick from Texas wins a new snowblower in the "12 Days of Christmas" giveaway. (31:02)

• Holiday Plant Care: Garden expert Don Kinzler offers tips on keeping Christmas trees fresh (fresh cut, warm water, no heat ducts), and debunks the myth that poinsettias are poisonous (they are not). (36:13)

Host Steve Hallstrom tackles a mix of local news, national politics, and economic analysis on a snowy, windy Tuesday afternoon. The winter storm has led to early dismissals and canceled after-school activities across Moorhead, but roads remain open.

Key Moments:

• ND Economic Freedom Ranked: Dr. John Bitson from the Challey Institute reports on the Economic Freedom of North America Report. North Dakota ranks ninth in the nation, performing well due to a low tax environment (ranking fifth) and low minimum wage relative to average wages. South Dakota ranks third. States with greater economic freedom tend to have people who live happier, healthier, and wealthier lives.

• Federal Aid & Tariffs: President Trump's $12 billion aid package for farmers affected by the trade war is progressing. The Treasury Secretary said China is on track to meet their promised U.S. soybean purchases by the end of February. However, an interview with economist Raheem Williams questions the effectiveness of the Trump administration's economic policy, suggesting volatility and uncertainty around tariffs are a major issue for business planning.

• Local Political Updates:

  • Moorhead Mayor Race: Kassi Sofferman, a social worker and non-profit founder, is the first to announce her candidacy for Moorhead Mayor.

  • Fargo Annexation Fight Ends: The Fargo City Commission unanimously voted to cancel its annexation of 300 acres near Harwood where the $3 billion Applied Digital Data Center is being built. The move is intended to foster cooperation with Harwood leaders.

• Abortion Pill Ad Campaign: South Dakota Governor Larry Roden has urged an investigation into a new advertising campaign for abortion pills at 30 gas stations, believing it violates the state's pro-life laws. South Dakota's law prohibits abortion except to preserve the life of a pregnant mother.

• Prison Drone Drop: A drone was intercepted trying to drop a package of contraband at a South Carolina prison. The package included steak, crab legs, Old Bay seasoning, marijuana, and cigarettes. Dropping contraband via drone is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

• Mortgage Rates & Housing: Mortgage broker Dave Noah reports that 30-year fixed rates are around 6% to 6.5%, and he is optimistic they could hit the "low-fives" in 2026. The local real estate market is currently more of a buyer's market.