Archives: Episodes

A major week in the news cycle hits high gear as Steve Hallstrom breaks down the high-stakes battle for election integrity in Washington D.C. and a historic transformation for North Dakota sports. Steve explores the "SAVE Act" standoff where congressional Republicans are weighing a government shutdown to secure mandatory voter ID. The show features an exclusive, in-depth interview with NDSU Athletic Director Matt Larson following the bombshell announcement that Bison football is officially moving to the FBS and the Mountain West Conference. Plus, Steve tackles the "California Oil Exodus," the latest arrest in a high-profile West Fargo murder investigation, and why the climate change "endangerment finding" is about to be revoked.

Key Moments

• The Fight for the SAVE Act: Steve breaks down why Representative Anna Paulina Luna is demanding that the SAVE Act—requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration—be attached to any federal spending bill. Steve critiques the "politically savvy" but cautious answers from local officials, arguing that election security is the one hill worth dying on, even if it means a government shutdown.

• Bison Football Goes FBS: Matt Larson joins the show to discuss NDSU’s jump to the FBS level. Larson details the $17 million in entry and reclassification fees, the shift to 85 full scholarships, and his plan to petition the NCAA to waive the two-year postseason ban. He also clarifies that while the Mountain West schedule is being "reshuffled," Bison fans should prepare for dream road trips to places like Las Vegas and Hawaii.

• Arrest in West Fargo Murder Case: Steve provides the latest on the investigation into the disappearance of Isadora Wengel. Fargo PD has arrested 21-year-old Joshua Height on suspicion of murder and tampering with evidence, bringing a somber update to a story the region has followed for weeks.

• The California Refinery Flight: Steve explores the economic fallout of Valero shuttering its California refinery four months early. He highlights how staggering regulations are driving major energy players to Texas, leaving Californians facing potential $12-a-gallon gas by peak summer travel season.

• A Blowout Jobs Report: Steve digests the latest federal jobs data, noting a "monster" increase of 172,000 private sector jobs and a drop in government hiring. However, he remains skeptical of the 900,000-job downward revision for the previous two years, calling it a "fly in the ointment" of federal data accuracy.

• Revoking the "Endangerment Finding": Climate analyst Greg Wrightstone joins the program to discuss the EPA’s plan to strip the legal foundation for greenhouse gas regulations. Wrightstone argues that CO2 is a "miracle molecule" essential for agricultural productivity and that there is no empirical evidence of a climate crisis.

• The Senate Race Rumble: Former NBA player Royce White joins the show to discuss his bid for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota. White takes aim at "special interests" and "establishment" GOP candidates, arguing that the party must double down on its base rather than appealing to the moderate center.

• Melania 2.0: Steve shares his takeaways from the new Melania Trump documentary after a local theater showing. He highlights the "surreal" nature of the Trumps' life and why the film is receiving a 99% audience approval rating despite being panned by critics.

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 discuss the challenges of keeping players focused when you hit a rough patch, they go back to the coaches playing days, 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 a packed Tuesday edition, Steve Hallstrom tackles the growing standoff in Washington D.C. as House Republicans fight for the SAVE Act and mandatory voter ID. Congresswoman Julie Fedorchuk joins the show to discuss why proof of citizenship is a "common sense" requirement for voting and addresses recent criticisms from her primary opponent. Steve also explores a massive economic shift in the West as a major oil refiner flees California, potentially sending gas prices to $12 a gallon. Plus, an in-depth look at NDSU’s move to the FBS with Athletic Director Matt Larson and a touching story of faith from Super Bowl Sunday.

Key Moments

• The Fight for the SAVE Act: Steve breaks down the legislative battle over the SAVE Act, which would require proof of citizenship to register for federal elections. Congresswoman Julie Fedorchuk joins to argue that showing ID to vote is as common as showing ID to pick up a prescription or rent a hotel room.

• NDSU Football Goes FBS: Athletic Director Matt Larson stops by for his first interview since the historic announcement that Bison football is joining the Mountain West Conference. Larson discusses the "magician-like" work of scheduling gurus, the $17 million in entry fees, and why he is determined to fight the NCAA’s two-year postseason probation period.

• The California Oil Exodus: Steve dives into the "story of the day" as refiner Valero announces it is shuttering its California operations four months early. Steve explores how heavy regulations are driving out high-paying jobs and could lead to $12-a-gallon gas by late summer.

• Minnesota’s Crowded Governor Race: Steve provides an update on the Republican straw polls, where House Speaker Lisa Demuth has taken an early lead. He also discusses the heartbreaking reason candidate Jeff Johnson suspended his campaign following the tragic death of his daughter.

• Don Lemon in Federal Custody: Steve discusses the federal arrest of former CNN anchor Don Lemon in California, tied to the disruption of a church service in St. Paul. Steve argues that protecting the sanctity of worship is a vital freedom that must be upheld.

• Fedorchuk Responds to Critics: Congresswoman Fedorchuk addresses claims made by primary opponent Alex Balazs regarding missed votes. She clarifies that her 97% attendance record remains a top priority and that most absences were coordinated with leadership for her daughter’s wedding.

• Kid Rock’s Altar Call: Steve highlights the unexpected "best thing I heard all day"—a gospel message from Kid Rock during the Turning Point USA halftime show. Steve defends the singer’s newfound faith against "vile" attacks from the left.

• Moorhead’s "Constitutional Observers": Steve critiques a recent training session at a Moorhead church for "ICE observers," arguing the movement is less about documenting facts and more about organized resistance against the administration.

In this high-octane Tuesday morning edition, Jay Thomas (sitting in for Kevin Flynn) and Alex Taylor cover a landscape that ranges from personal injuries to massive political scandals. Jay kicks things off with a literal "Shankapotamus" moment from a golf simulator that left him with a sprained shoulder and a newfound hatred for winter ice. But the focus quickly shifts to the high-stakes drama surrounding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, where Dan Bongino and Nancy Grace weigh in on a crime scene that feels increasingly " sterile" and bizarre.

The team doesn’t hold back on the "Minnesota Fraud Playbook," diving into reports of widespread embezzlement in state programs and the whistleblowers facing retaliation. Plus, we break down NDSU’s jump to the FBS, Florida’s major crackdown on non-English driving exams, and a heated debate over whether the government is actually "seeding" more than just clouds.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:30] The "Shankapotamus" Sprain Jay details his disastrous attempt at golfing on a simulator and why a sprained shoulder is ruining his week—leading into a classic rant about Fargo drivers who can’t find their gas pedals or turn off their brights.

[00:10:00] The Guthrie Investigation: Three Theories Dan Bongino joins to break down the "Occam’s Razor" possibilities in the Nancy Guthrie case. From a "burglary gone awry" to a possible medical emergency, why has this case not followed the history of a typical kidnapping?

[00:20:45] Bison Moving On Up: The FBS Reality Check Big Game James delivers the hard truth about NDSU’s jump to the Mountain West. We talk about the two-year postseason probation, the end of local TV broadcasts, and why fans are "livid" over the transition rules.

[00:26:45] The Minnesota "Fraud" Storm Sandra Smith and the Mayor of Crosslake, MN, sound the alarm on "rampant fraud" involving state agencies. We explore claims that whistleblowers are being silenced with "racism" labels to protect corrupt bank accounts.

[00:30:30] Florida’s English-Only Driving Rule Governor Ron DeSantis moves to require English-only exams for all drivers, including CDLs. Jay and Alex discuss why being able to read a "One Way" sign is a matter of public safety, not politics.

[00:33:00] The Chemtrail Rabbit Hole A listener text triggers a deep dive into weather modification. Are those trails in the sky just nature, or is there a more "sinister" reason for the recent 40-degree heat spikes in North Dakota?

[00:36:00] Texting vs. Drunk Driving Jay calls for penalties for texting while driving to match DUIs, citing studies that it’s just as deadly. The team discusses the "ridiculous" slap-on-the-wrist fines currently in place.

It is a monumental Tuesday as the NDSU Bison officially punch their ticket to the FBS. Host Scott Hennen is joined by athletic director Matt Larson and interim president Rick Berg to break down the "muscle car" transition to the Mountain West, the $17 million move, and why your tailgating experience is about to get a major upgrade.

But the headlines don't stop at the goal line. We go behind the scenes of the most talked-about Super Bowl commercial with a fourth-generation North Dakota barley farmer who shared the screen with the Clydesdales. Plus, we tackle the fiery debate over the SAVE Act, the "bigotry of low expectations" in voting laws, and an inspiring look at a local homeschool robotics team that is out-coding the competition. From political absurdity to high-tech student innovation, this episode covers the full spectrum of the Red River Valley and beyond.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:10] The Bison Leap to the Mountain West NDSU Athletic Director Matt Larson and Interim President Rick Berg discuss the whirlwind 72 hours that made the FBS move official. They address the "zero state funding" budget and why new opponents like Wyoming and New Mexico State will reignite the Fargo Dome.

[00:08:11] The Franson Department of Real Estate UND Interim Dean Patrick O’Neill announces a historic naming for the Nistler College of Business. Discover how one alum is helping shape the next generation of land barons and real estate developers in Grand Forks.

[00:12:15] From the Soil to the Super Bowl An exclusive interview with Brian Franson, the Coal Harbor farmer featured in the iconic Budweiser "American Icons" commercial. He shares what it was like to take the North Dakota family legacy to a global stage.

[00:16:45] The Bigotry of Low Expectations Scott sounds off on Chuck Schumer’s opposition to the SAVE Act. The team breaks down why requiring an ID to vote is common sense and responds to claims that it disenfranchises minority communities.

[00:24:15] Building Homes, Changing Lives Habitat for Humanity’s Pete Christopher joins to discuss their Giving Hearts Day goal of $250,000. Learn how "sweat equity" is helping local factory and office workers achieve the dream of homeownership.

[00:29:45] The Future of STEM: Onward Robotics Meet the high schoolers from the Onward Community homeschool team. These students are building turret-mounted robots and preparing for the State Competition in Bismarck, proving that school choice fosters elite talent.

[00:33:45] The "Red Hat" Resistance Scott reacts to a local group of activists sewing red hats to protest ICE and the Trump administration. He unpacks the controversial comparisons to WWII Norwegian resistance and the importance of backing law enforcement.

The Jay Thomas Show from Tuesday February 10th, 2026.

Host Scott Hennen returns from a Super Bowl week in San Francisco with a jam-packed Monday edition. The energy is electric as the team reacts to a "pinch-yourself" moment in North Dakota sports history: NDSU is officially making the jump to the FBS and joining the Mountain West Conference. Scott and Steve Hallstrom break down the financial "counting of noses," the potential for road trips to Hawaii and Vegas, and the end of legendary local rivalries.

But that’s not the only massive infrastructure shift. Fargo Airport Authority Chair Paula Ekman joins the show to give an exclusive sneak peek at the brand-new terminal expansion opening tomorrow. From "immersive reality rooms" for travelers to heated jetways and upgraded amenities, Fargo’s "front porch" is getting a major facelift. Plus, we celebrate the upcoming Giving Hearts Day by highlighting local warriors in education and community support.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:43] Super Bowl Redux and the Halftime Great Divide Scott reflects on the high-production Turning Point USA "Alternative Halftime Show" and why Kid Rock’s faith-based performance resonated more than the official NFL broadcast.

[00:10:53] Bison Moving On Up Special analysis on NDSU’s move to the Mountain West. Steve Hallstrom weighs the $17 million entry fee against the need to "rejuvenate the fan base" after years of FCS dominance.

[00:14:14] The Legacy Children’s Foundation Dr. Mary Jean Dean shares the grassroots story of starting a foundation at her kitchen table and how it now empowers hundreds of Fargo-Moorhead youth through leadership and accountability.

[00:17:38] Churches United: Solving Homelessness with Hope Elvin Brooks discusses the "miracle" of moving the organization from debt to a savings account and their audacious $1 million goal for this year's Giving Hearts Day.

[00:22:11] Inside Fargo’s New Airport Terminal Paula Ekman walks us through the high-tech amenities opening tomorrow, including a pet relief room, sensory-friendly spaces for travelers, and floor-to-ceiling runways views.

[00:32:45] St. Monica’s Montessori & School Choice Brian Wilburn talks about the power of hands-on learning and why parents are increasingly seeking educational options that focus on "the whole child."

In this high-energy Monday morning breakdown, Jay Thomas and Alex Taylor dive into a Super Bowl Sunday that felt like two different worlds. From the defensive battle on the field in Vegas to the polarizing halftime performances, the team unpacks why millions of viewers are migrating to "alternative" broadcasts.

But it’s not all football and fireworks. The show takes a serious turn as they analyze the chilling disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the bizarre $6 million Bitcoin ransom demand, and the investigative red flags that have former FBI and NYPD experts sounding the alarm. Plus, we talk "Maha" with HHS Secretary RFK Jr., discuss NDSU’s massive $17 million leap to the Mountain West, and explore why Gen Z is ditching four-year degrees for six-figure "dirty jobs."

Episode Highlights

[00:01:45] The Halftime Great Divide The team reviews Turning Point USA’s "Alternative Halftime Show" featuring Brantley Gilbert and Kid Rock, which pulled in over 25 million views from fans seeking a patriotic alternative to the NFL’s main stage.

[00:10:00] The $17 Million Cover Charge Big Game James joins the booth to break down North Dakota State University’s move to the Mountain West. Is the massive entry fee and transition to the FBS worth the hike in student tuition and ticket prices?

[00:14:30] The Nancy Guthrie Investigation A deep dive into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. Former NYPD Inspector Paul Morrow joins to discuss the strange "two-deadline" ransom note, the lack of "proof of life," and why authorities are searching septic tanks.

[00:33:00] Steak, Sauerkraut, and HHS Robert F. Kennedy Jr. discusses the "Make America Healthy Again" movement, Mike Tyson’s surprising role in health advocacy, and why gut health might be the key to fixing the nation’s mental health crisis.

[00:48:45] AI-Proofing Your Career Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs fame reacts to the Davos elite finally acknowledging the importance of skilled trades. Discover why young people are flocking to vocational schools to avoid a lifetime of student debt.

[00:52:45] Winter Isn't Finished Yet Meteorologist Dean Wysocki gives the "Three Degree Guarantee" and warns that while this week feels like spring, a "Colorado Crusher" storm system is looming on the horizon for late February.

The Jay Thomas Show from Monday February 9th, 2026.  1st Hour pre-empted by Bison Mountain West Press Conference.

A seismic shift has arrived for North Dakota sports as NDSU officially prepares to move its football program to the FBS level. Steve Hallstrom breaks down the school's invitation to the Mountain West Conference, exploring everything from the million-dollar buy-in fees to the dream road trips Bison fans can expect in Hawaii and Las Vegas. The show also covers the fallout from Minnesota’s caucus night, the federal arrest of Don Lemon, and a Super Bowl halftime show that featured an unexpected gospel message. Plus, Steve sits down with Dr. Gilda Carle to discuss why the new Melania Trump documentary is defying the critics.

Key Moments

• Bison Football Levels Up: Steve details NDSU’s move to the FBS and the Mountain West Conference. He breaks down the $17 million in entry and reclassification fees, the jump to 85 scholarships, and a two-year postseason transition period. Sports Director James McCarty joins to discuss potential non-conference "giant-slaying" opportunities at stadiums like the LA Coliseum.

• Minnesota GOP Straw Poll: Following caucus night, House Speaker Lisa Demuth has emerged as the early frontrunner in the straw poll for Governor, leading Kendall Qualls and Mike Lindell. Steve also notes that Scott Jensen has withdrawn from the primary to seek the state auditor position instead.

• Kid Rock’s Halftime "Altar Call": Steve highlights the Turning Point USA halftime show, where Kid Rock surprised millions with a message about faith and a second chance through Jesus. Steve defends the performance as a genuine moment of reflection that transcended the typical Super Bowl spectacle.

• The Melania Movie Phenomenon: Dr. Gilda Carle, author of "Real Men Don't Go Woke," joins the show to analyze the success of the Melania Trump documentary. Despite a 10% rating from critics, the film holds a 99% audience approval, signaling a powerful and overlooked voting bloc of women 45 and older.

• Don Lemon Arrested: Steve discusses the federal arrest of former CNN anchor Don Lemon in California, tied to the disruption of a St. Paul church service. He argues that the federal charges are a necessary response to the "desecration" of a house of worship.

• Fargo’s 20-Year-Old Mayor Candidate: National Guardsman Jake Coulter announces his bid for Fargo Mayor. Steve applauds the young conservative’s initiative to tackle city spending.

• The F-5 Project Investigation: Steve notes that an open records request was denied by the North Dakota Attorney General, confirming an active investigation into the F-5 project following alleged financial irregularities.

• Roadway Realities: Captain Brian Niewind of the North Dakota Highway Patrol provides a winter safety update, noting that 2025 saw 85 traffic fatalities—a 20% reduction from previous years—thanks in part to the primary seatbelt law.