Archives: Episodes

The Jay Thomas Show from Thursday March 5th, 2026.  Guests include Ron Ness and Brian Schinn.

Steve Hallstrom is back in the Fargo studio following a trip to Watford City to break down a dizzying day of news across the region. From the "clunky" indecisiveness at Fargo City Hall to a potentially world-changing scientific discovery at NDSU, this episode covers the spectrum of local impact. Steve dives into the latest twists in the Fargo Human Rights Commission debate, the bipartisan push for a school cell phone ban in Minnesota, and an exclusive interview with the auctioneer behind the region's high-stakes bull sales. Plus, Steve reflects on the passing of a coaching legend and shares a "best thing I heard all day" that takes a Twin Cities pastor to school on the theology of giving.

Key Moments

• NDSU’s "Egg-cellent" Scientific Breakthrough: Steve breaks down a major discovery from NDSU researchers: a simple protein found in common egg whites can effectively trap and remove toxic "forever chemicals" (PFAS) from contaminated water. This bio-based discovery could revolutionize water treatment costs and safety nationwide.

• Fargo’s Decision Dilemma: Commissioner Michelle Turnberg joins the show to discuss why she was the lone "no" vote on giving the Fargo Human Rights Commission another 60 days to define its purpose. Steve and Turnberg critique the commission's inability to articulate its mission and the "hard costs" to taxpayers for maintaining ineffectual volunteer boards.

• The "Theology of Giving" Standoff: In a must-hear "best thing I heard all day," Steve plays a clip from a House committee hearing where a Texas congressman challenges a Twin Cities pastor. The debate centers on whether tax revenue can truly be called "charity" when it is extracted under compulsion, and the biblical mandate to be good stewards of other people's money.

• Minnesota’s Freedom Caucus: A new block of seven principled conservative lawmakers has officially launched the Minnesota Freedom Caucus in St. Paul. Steve explores their mission to end massive omnibus bills, reckless spending, and the "wasteful, fraudulent programs" plaguing the state.

• On the Ranch with Kyle Shope: Montana-based auctioneer Kyle Shope joins Steve to discuss the booming cattle economy. Shope explains how record-low herd sizes are driving up demand for purebred genetics and why "rural America is winning" right now in the livestock business.

• The High Price of "Trump Derangement": Steve reacts to the news that a Minnesota state employee who caused $20,000 in damage by keying six Teslas received only a one-day unpaid suspension. Steve argues the lack of restitution is a failure of deterrence in the face of radical political vandalism.

• School Cell Phone Bans: Bipartisan lawmakers in Minnesota are considering following North Dakota's lead by strictly limiting or banning cell phones in K-12 classrooms. Teachers testify that they simply "can't compete with TikTok" for student attention.

• Remembering Lou Holtz: Steve pays tribute to the iconic college football coach and devout Catholic who passed away at age 89, noting his brief but storied tenure at the University of Minnesota.

The Jay Thomas Show from Wednesday March 4th, 2026.  Guests include Leah Alsager and more.

Steve Hallstrom returns to the Fargo studio to break down a harrowing 24 hours of news, from the shifting frontlines of "Operation Epic Fury" in Iran to a staggering report on systemic fraud in Minnesota. Steve honors the local heroes lost in recent military strikes and explores the tragic Austin shooting that claimed the life of a recent NDSU graduate. Law enforcement expert Michael Letts joins to discuss the radicalization of "sleeper cells" in the U.S., while Steve dives into the "intimidation campaign" allegedly unfolding in Governor Tim Walz’s office. Plus, updates on Fargo’s convention center Snag, the Supreme Court’s parental rights win, and why your "healthy" snacks might be hidden sugar bombs.

Key Moments

• Operation Epic Fury Escalates: Steve pays tribute to the six American service members killed in Iran, including Sergeant First Class Nicole Amore of White Bear Lake, Minnesota. He analyzes the Pentagon's latest release and discusses the potential for ground troops as President Trump refuses to rule out boots on the ground to end the conflict.

• The Austin Shooting’s Local Tie: A heartbreaking update on the Austin, Texas nightclub shooting identifies one of the victims as Jorge Peterson, a Minnesota native and NDSU graduate. Law enforcement expert Michael Letts joins the show to discuss the gunman's "Property of Allah" attire and the failure of federal agencies to share "sleeper cell" intel with local police.

• Minnesota’s 90% Fraud Crisis: Steve highlights explosive testimony from the Minnesota State Legislature. He plays a clip from reporter Jake Holes alleging that at least 90% of a $100 million housing stabilization program was lost to fraud, while Republicans introduce articles of impeachment against Governor Walz and AG Keith Ellison.

• Supreme Court Siding with Parents: In a massive victory for parental rights, the Supreme Court blocked a California law that prevented schools from notifying parents about their children’s gender transitions. Steve argues that "letting parents be parents" is the only common-sense path forward.

• Fargo’s "Clunky" City Hall: Steve critiques the Fargo City Commission's 4-1 vote to give the Human Rights Commission another 60 days to define its purpose. He praises Commissioner Michelle Turnberg as the lone voice of reason for demanding a decisive end to an "ineffective" board.

• The "Sneaky Six" Health Alert: One in three American teens now has pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. Steve identifies the "Sneaky Six" foods—from flavored yogurt to condiments—that are driving this acquired health crisis and shares the "MAHA" plate rule for families.

• 401k Hardship Surge: Steve breaks down a concerning 2025 report from Vanguard showing that 6% of workers—a record high—took hardship withdrawals from their retirement accounts just to survive, highlighting the true "lived experience" of inflation.

• A-Rod is Coming to the Valley: MLB legend Alex Rodriguez is announced as the keynote speaker for the Chamber’s Voices of Vision event. Steve reflects on A-Rod’s legacy of "overcoming mistakes" and his transformation into a high-level entrepreneur.

Coaches Corner Podcast host, Greg Burd, of Flag Family Media is joined each week by MSUM men’s basketball head coach, Jason Kemp, and MSUM women’s basketball head coach, Karla Nelson. This week the coaches recapped their NSIC tournament games last week in Aberdeen, discussed their impact players from the NSIC tournament, and more.   The Coaches Corner Podcast is brought to you by: Valley Imports/Valley Pre-Owned Camrud Foss Concrete Third Drop Coffee Brady’s Service Center

In this explosive Tuesday edition of What’s On Your Mind, host Scott Hennen takes listeners inside the Oval Office and the front lines of a rapidly shifting global landscape. As Operation Epic Fury enters its fourth day, President Donald Trump delivers a fireside briefing alongside the German Chancellor, detailing the decimation of Iran’s military infrastructure and the "colossal threat" that was narrowly averted.

The episode pulls back the curtain on the "4-D chess" being played—from choking off oil supplies to China and Russia to the high-tech logistics of drone warfare being developed right in North Dakota. With expert analysis from Grand Sky’s Tom Sawyer on the future of air defense and Senator John Hoeven on the legislative battle for the SAVE Act, this show breaks down why the "yapping chihuahuas" in the mainstream media are missing the forest for the trees.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:01:28] – Fireside in the Oval Office President Trump addresses the media, explaining that Israel didn't force his hand—he may have forced theirs. He details the "stunning level of evil" that led Iran to strike neutral countries and civilian hotels before their air protections were obliterated.

[00:08:16] – The $4 Million Missile Problem Tom Sawyer, CEO of Grand Sky, joins the show to discuss the logistical nightmare of "asymmetric warfare." He explains the unsustainable cost of using $4 million missiles to shoot down $25,000 mass-produced Iranian drones and how Grand Forks is becoming the epicenter for a solution.

[00:14:58] – Choking the Octopus Global security expert Michael Letts breaks down the strategic "checkmate" against China. By liberating Venezuela and striking Iran, the U.S. has effectively choked off China’s primary oil reserves, forcing a global economic realignment.

[00:20:29] – The 118-Year Game A deep-dive analysis into the "British financial architecture" in the Middle East. Scott explores how the current strikes are not just about nukes, but about dismantling a century-old system of managed regional chaos profitable to the City of London.

[00:25:25] – The Masterclass in Resentment Robert F. Kennedy Jr. provides a surprising "masterclass" on dealing with critics, recounting a gym confrontation where he viewed a screaming protester as a "gift" from God to keep him humble.

[00:31:11] – Kristi Noem’s DHS Bombshell Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testifies before the Senate, revealing that the government under the previous administration was paying sponsors who were knowingly trafficking and abusing migrant children.

[00:35:45] – The 60-Day Clock Senator John Hoeven clarifies the legal battle over the War Powers Act, noting that the administration has fully complied with notification requirements and maintains a 60-day window for kinetic operations under Article 2 authority.

In this emotionally charged and historic episode of What’s On Your Mind, host Scott Hennen breaks down the monumental U.S. and Israeli military response to 47 years of Iranian aggression. Following the launch of Operation Epic Fury, Scott explores the decisive leadership of President Donald Trump and the sheer precision of the Joint Forces in "finishing a war they didn't start."

The show features a powerful mix of military expertise and personal testimony, including a perspective-shifting interview with "Raheel," a Persian woman living in the U.S. who provides a raw look at what the Iranian people have endured under a "death cult" regime. From the "Trump Derangement Syndrome" in Congress to the joy of Iranians celebrating in the streets of Los Angeles and New York, this episode tackles the necessity of peace through strength and the heavy price of freedom.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:03:00] – Retribution After 47 Years Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivers a historic briefing, tracing Iranian-backed violence from the Beirut car bombs to Iraq's roadside IEDs, declaring that under President Trump, America is finally finishing the fight.

[00:04:32] – The Trucker’s Global Perspective "Lloyd," an 18-wheeler driver, weighs in with a common-sense take on the economic "island" Trump is creating for China by cutting off Iranian and Venezuelan oil trade.

[00:08:24] – A Commander’s Burden "Will," a Navy veteran from the first Gulf War, reflects on the character of the warfighter and the difference between "cutting and running" in Afghanistan versus the "speed, surprise, and violence of action" currently on display.

[00:13:40] – The "Gang of Eight" and War Powers A deep dive into the political maneuvers in D.C., discussing why the highly classified nature of the strike was essential for operational security despite the "pearl-clutching" from the Democratic Party.

[00:18:14] – The Weight of the Uniform In a heart-wrenching call, "Bill," a former unit leader who lost 17 of his 31 men in combat, shares his emotional reaction to the President's resolve to "complete the mission" without looking back.

[00:27:01] – Voices from the Ground Raheel, a green card holder from Iran, explains that the Iranian people "begged for this rescue mission" and details the 1979 revolution’s long-term trauma on a society thirsting for normalcy and secularism.

[00:32:00] – 10% Loyalty A revealing look at the Iranian power structure, as Raheel estimates that only about 10% of the population actually supports the Revolutionary Guard—primarily those benefiting from government corruption.

In this action-packed Tuesday morning broadcast, hosts Kevin and Alex cut through the "fear-mongering" and "tedious" headlines to bring you the latest on a world in transition. From the eerie glow of a lunar eclipse visible over North Dakota to the precision of a 37-hour bomber mission, the duo explores the global celebrations following the death of Ayatollah Khamenei. They break down the legal and tactical realities of Operation Epic Fury, dispel "Trump Derangement Syndrome" rumors regarding nuclear deals, and look ahead to a "pick day of the week" weather forecast that promises a hint of early spring.

The episode also honors local hero Officer Andy Work in the Luther Family Ford Salute to Law Enforcement and dives into the heavy sports schedule as the Moorhead Spuds and local basketball teams head into high-stakes playoff territory.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:02:11] – Celebration of a Half-Century A breakdown of the worldwide reaction to the death of Ayatollah Khamenei, with reports of Iranians and Jews cheering side-by-side in London and "Make Iran Great Again" flags appearing in New York.

[00:03:58] – The Blood Moon Tuesday The show is interrupted by listeners calling in to report a stunning total lunar eclipse—a "blood moon"—turning the sky deep red for 58 minutes across America.

[00:11:00] – The JD Vance Doctrine Vice President J.D. Vance explains the strategic necessity of returning to Iran after Operation Midnight Hammer, emphasizing that while enrichment facilities were previously hit, the current goal is a permanent, long-term commitment to a nuclear-free Iran.

[00:16:11] – The Bee's Knees of Agriculture Ag expert Bridgette Readel joins the show to discuss the critical role of pollinators, noting that bees can improve soybean yields by up to 20%, and shares the "War on Weeds" strategy for the upcoming planting season.

[00:26:48] – 37 Hours in the Air A staggering look at the logistics of modern warfare: B-2 stealth bombers flying 37-hour round-trip sorties from Missouri to Iran, supported by a continuous "tanker air bridge" over the Atlantic.

[00:32:12] – Salute to Law Enforcement Moorhead Police Officer and School Resource Officer Andy Work joins the studio to talk about the transition from patrol to the schools, his Alexandria roots, and the importance of being a positive role model for "Spud" athletics.

[00:40:21] – Senator Markwayne Mullin on "Bite vs. Bark" Senator Mullin provides a military perspective on why Iran's "Nizar Plan" backfired, arguing the regime realized they had no true friends in the region as neighboring Arab states prioritize commerce over chaos.

[00:42:55] – The Fetterman Factor The hosts discuss John Fetterman being labeled the "one reasonable Democrat" for his willingness to support the administration's actions to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

In this high-stakes Monday morning briefing, hosts Alex and Kevin dive deep into the seismic shifts occurring in the Middle East following the launch of Operation Epic Fury. As the second day of March brings unseasonably warm weather to Fargo, the global political climate is reaching a boiling point. The duo discusses the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader and 40 top officials in a massive joint U.S.-Israeli strike, the celebration of Iranian citizens in the streets, and what this "new era of warfare" means for the future of global peace.

Beyond the front lines, the episode balances the heavy news with local sports—celebrating the Timberwolves' victory over the Nuggets and UND Hockey’s Penrose Cup win—plus a deep dive into health, circadian rhythms, and regenerative living with guest Mariah Prussia.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:05:00] – The Lamb and the Lion The hosts reflect on March rolling in with beautiful 40-degree weather while simultaneously dealing with a "major global, country-altering" weekend.

[00:31:00] – Operation Epic Fury Revealed War correspondent Benjamin Hall breaks down the specifics of the joint strike, the death of the Ayatollah, and the "stunning arrogance" that led Iranian leaders to meet in person despite the threat of surveillance.

[01:04:00] – Not a War, an Operation A debate on the nature of modern conflict. Kevin and Alex discuss whether the era of "boots on the ground" and "nation building" is over, replaced by precise, high-tech air superiority.

[04:18:00] – Secretary of War Hegseth’s Briefing The show cuts to a live press conference with Pete Hegseth and General Kane. Hegseth delivers a fiery message to the "media outlets screaming endless wars," defining the mission as a decisive destruction of threats rather than a "nation-building quagmire."

[05:16:00] – The Mechanics of H-Hour General Kane provides a minute-by-minute account of the strike, detailing the synchronization of over 100 aircraft, B-2 bombers on 37-hour sorties, and the role of U.S. SpaceCom in "blinding" the adversary.

[08:09:00] – Finding the Rhythm in the Chaos Guest Mariah Prussia shifts the focus to internal health, discussing how global stress impacts our body clocks (circadian rhythms) and the importance of disconnecting from "doom scrolling."

[09:47:00] – Hearing the Plants A fascinating look at Mariah’s "Cultivate to Grow" program, where middle schoolers use technology to hear the vibrations and frequencies of live plants to reconnect with nature.

[11:14:00] – Geopolitical 4-D Chess Representative Brian Mast joins Maria Bartiromo to discuss how Russia and China are the primary losers in the current conflict due to their reliance on Iranian oil and trade.

The Jay Thomas Show from Tuesday March 3rd, 2026.  Guests include Capt. Brian Niewind from the NDHP.