Archives: Episodes

It’s a Friday edition of the Need to Know Morning Show, and the team is gearing up for a massive Super Bowl weekend. Kevin Flynn and Alex Taylor dive into the cultural divide of the big game, from the "demonic" vibes of the official halftime show to the star-studded "All-American" alternative hosted by Turning Point USA.

But it’s not all football and finger foods. The team breaks down the launch of TrumpRx, a new initiative aimed at ending what they call the "Great American Ripoff" of prescription drug prices. We also get an inside look at the rampant fraud uncovered in Minnesota’s daycare and hospice systems, plus a special preview of Giving Hearts Day with the leaders of Pulse Evangelism and TNT Kids Fitness. Whether you're here for the political fire, the weather "hooey," or the best Super Bowl snack tips, this episode has you covered.

Episode Highlights

[00:03:00] The "Russia Russia" Press Room Rockstar The team reacts to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calling out the media over Fulton County voting records and Russian interference claims. Is she the sharpest press secretary in history?

[00:12:45] The Minnesota Fraud Playbook David Hoche, investigative partner to Nick Shirley, details his testimony before the House Judiciary Committee. From "leering centers" to empty daycares, we look at how billions in taxpayer dollars were allegedly laundered through shell companies.

[00:21:30] Checkpoints in Minneapolis? A look at the illegal roadblocks set up by anti-ICE agitators in South Minneapolis. Trump weighs in on the civilian checkpoints and why law enforcement needs to "arrest these idiots."

[00:32:00] TrumpRx: Ending the Whale Tab The launch of TrumpRx.com aims to slash drug prices by 80-90%. We discuss why America—the world's biggest customer—has been paying the highest prices for the drugs we researched and developed.

[00:33:45] The Guthrie Kidnapping "Script" The team explores the bizarre tinfoil-hat theories surrounding the kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie’s mother. Is there a Hollywood script already in the works, or is there a deeper connection to Epstein survivors?

[00:37:00] Pulse Evangelism: The Gen Z Revival Nick Hall of Pulse Evangelism joins to discuss a massive spiritual shift. Statistically, young men are now outpacing women in religious devotion. Hear about the upcoming "Pack the Shack" event at NDSU.

[00:41:45] Super Bowl Grilling & Padded Snowplows Meteorologist Dean Wysocki gives the weekend forecast. With temps hitting the mid-30s on Sunday, it’s Traeger season! Plus, a hilarious solution for those Minneapolis roadblocks: padded V-front snowplows.

Broadcast live from a quaint spot in Tiburon overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, Scott Hennen brings the energy of Super Bowl week to the airwaves. This episode is a masterclass in bridging the gap between North Dakota common sense and Silicon Valley innovation. Scott explores how the "ecosystem" of the Bay Area—built on solving problems and embracing failure—could be the key to unlocking North Dakota’s potential as the "Silicon Valley of the Midwest."

The show features a heavy-hitting lineup, including Senator Kevin Cramer, who addresses the heated "Town Hall" questions on everything from VA backlogs and DHS funding to the classy influence of Melania Trump. Later, NFL Hall of Famer Phil Hanson joins to talk Bison pride, the chaos of the transfer portal, and the "journeyman" magic of Sam Darnold. Whether you're here for the "Radio Graffiti" rants or the high-level investment talk, this episode captures the "art of the possible" from North Dakota to San Francisco.

Episode Highlights

[00:03:00] The "Town Hall" with Senator Kevin Cramer Senator Cramer weighs in on the political theater surrounding the DHS funding bill and responds to criticisms from former Senator Kent Conrad. He also discusses the "quiet confidence" of Melania Trump and her influence on the President.

[00:06:45] Appropriation Battles and Rand Paul A deep dive into the practical side of D.C. politics. Cramer explains why he voted for certain appropriations bills and the nuances of working with "DOGE" cuts while maintaining the President's signature tax policies.

[00:09:00] Veteran Affairs: Benefit of the Doubt? A powerful exchange with a local veteran leads to a discussion on cutting VA backlogs, reducing administrative bureaucracy, and the potential for non-traditional treatments like Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

[00:17:00] Bison on the Big Stage: Phil Hanson Buffalo Bills Hall of Famer Phil Hanson breaks down why he’s rooting for a "Seattle slant" this Super Bowl. He praises the rookie success of Gray Zabel and the grit of the Bison offensive line in the NFL.

[00:19:00] The NIL and Transfer Portal "Mess" Hanson and Hennen get real about the "college free agency" landscape. They discuss the impact of agents on locker room dynamics and why the "genie is out of the bottle" for the future of college football.

[00:27:00] Unlocking Potential: TNT Kids Fitness As Giving Hearts Day approaches, Sammy Schofield explains how TNT Kids Fitness uses gymnastics and movement to unlock the potential of every child, regardless of ability or neurodiversity.

[00:33:45] Deciphering Silicon Valley with Dan McMurdy Silicon Valley investor Dan McMurdy explains why the Bay Area remains the AI capital of the world and how entrepreneurs there view "failure" as a necessary stepping stone toward innovation.

The Jay Thomas Show from Friday February 6th, 2026.  Guests include Tom Krabbenhoft and Wayne Schlauderaff.

A massive news week culminates in a Friday edition filled with "haymakers." Steve Hallstrom breaks down the federal arrest of former CNN anchor Don Lemon following his intrusion into a St. Paul church service, the shocking collapse of the historic Norsk Høstfest in Minot, and a "spirited" look at the massive layoffs hitting the Washington Post. Steve also dives into the latest Minnesota fraud estimates that have climbed as high as $80 billion, the launch of "Trump Rx," and the upcoming Winter Olympics in Cortina. Plus, we head "down on the farm" to discuss why the U.S. is struggling to increase beef production and hear from Super Bowl stars who aren't shy about their faith.

Key Moments

• Don Lemon in Handcuffs: Steve discusses the federal arrest of Don Lemon in California after a Minnesota magistrate initially refused to bring charges. Steve argues that while Lemon claims he was "just doing journalism," storming into a house of worship to harass families during a service crossed a clear legal and moral line.

• The End of an Era for Høstfest: In a sad development for North Dakota tradition, the Norsk Høstfest board announces it is pulling the plug on future festivals due to rising operational costs and declining attendance.

• Woke Media Leaking Oil: Steve analyzes the massive layoffs at the Washington Post, where a third of the staff was cut. He highlights the elimination of nearly all climate change reporters and the sports department as a sign that "activism" is failing as a profitable business model.

• Minnesota’s $80 Billion Fraud? Independent journalist David Hoke provides explosive testimony in St. Paul, claiming that when all factors are considered, the total fraud in Minnesota could be as high as $80 billion—vastly exceeding the $10 billion figure cited by public watchdog groups.

• Trump Rx Launches: The White House officially unveils TrumpRx.com, a central hub designed to lower prescription drug costs by pointing consumers directly to drug makers offering deep discounts.

• Olympic Fever in Italy: Steve previews the Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy, highlighting 41-year-old Lindsey Vonn’s attempt to compete on a ruptured ACL and the emergence of "Quad God" Ilya Malinin in figure skating.

• The High Price of Beef: Ag Director Bridget Riedel joins the show to explain why ranchers can't just "breed more cows" to lower prices. She details how years of drought and the current $5,500 price for bred mama cows are preventing a quick recovery of U.S. herds.

• Super Bowl Faith: Ahead of Super Bowl 60, Steve plays clips of New England QB Drake Maye and Seattle receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba discussing how their identity is rooted in Christ rather than their performance on the field.

As the 2026 Super Bowl approaches, the "Need to Know Morning Show" team tackles a different kind of high-stakes game: the ongoing clash between federal ICE agents and local leadership in Minneapolis. Hosts Kevin Flynn and Alex Taylor break down the latest news on Operation Metro Surge, including a 700-agent drawdown and the "unprecedented" cooperation from local jails—despite public rhetoric from local politicians.

The episode also takes a dark turn into national security, investigating the discovery of a secret Chinese bio-lab in Las Vegas—the second of its kind found in recent years. Plus, we check in on "Agronomy on Ice," discuss the mysterious disappearance of Savannah Guthrie’s mother, and look forward to a rare 40-degree February warm-up in the Dakotas.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:03:00] Operation Metro Surge: A look at real progress in Minnesota as 700 federal officers are redeployed elsewhere, though 2,000 ICE agents remain on the ground to handle high-profile criminal cases.

• [00:09:45] The Blockade Reality: Discussion of the "masked radicals" cordoning off parts of Minneapolis, checking license plates, and reportedly committing false imprisonment in the middle of public streets.

• [00:13:30] Tom Homan Drops the Mic: The Border Czar delivers a blistering message to educators and protestors, highlighting the half-million children smuggled during the previous administration and the 145,000 children found by the current team.

• [00:18:45] The Case of the West River Deputy: Meet Isaac Cadet, the latest hire for the North Dakota Stockman's Association, a licensed officer tasked with investigating livestock crime and "cattle wrestling".

• [00:27:30] The Vegas Bio-Lab Discovery: A deep dive into the shocking discovery made by a house cleaner in Las Vegas, where over 1,000 suspected biological agents including TB, HIV, and malaria were found in a residential garage.

• [00:29:15] Students or Spies?: Senator Tom Cotton questions why 600,000 Chinese nationals are in American universities studying quantum computing and AI instead of the Lincoln-Douglas debates.

• [00:32:15] The Weatherman’s Playbook: In honor of National Weatherperson’s Day, Chief Meteorologist Dean Blaise shares his most "buoyant" college pickup lines.

• [00:43:00] The Guthrie Ransom Note: Analysis of the safe-return plea from Savannah Guthrie’s family and why law enforcement believes the ransom note may contain accurate, non-public details.

• [00:48:00] A Local Super Bowl Star: A shout-out to Brian Franzen, a fourth-generation Coal Harbor farmer, who is set to star alongside a Clydesdale and a bald eagle in a Budweiser Super Bowl commercial.

Live from San Francisco, just steps away from Levi’s Stadium, host Scott Hennon explores the intersection of cutting-edge technology and NFL legends. This high-energy episode features a look at how North Dakota can become the "Silicon Valley of the Midwest" while getting the ultimate pre-game breakdown for the Seahawks vs. Patriots matchup.

From the future of modular AI data centers with Dan Wright to an exclusive interview with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, we’re tackling the biggest stories at the edge of the border and the edge of innovation. Plus, Minnesota Vikings legend Chuck Foreman joins to discuss why today’s quarterbacks don’t "call the game" like they used to.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:03:00] – The "San Francisco Treat": Scott broadcasts live from the shadow of the Super Bowl, discussing the "epicenter" of the big game and North Dakota’s potential for a tech revolution.

• [00:09:00] – Modular AI & The Global Race: Armada co-founder Dan Wright explains how mobile, rugged AI "factories" are beating China and why North Dakota’s energy dominance is the perfect fit.

• [00:23:00] – Defending the American Edge: Doug Kelly from the American Edge Project debunks myths about data center power usage and highlights the massive talent shortage in skilled trades.

• [00:46:00] – Chuck Foreman’s Super Bowl Breakdown: The Vikings legend discusses the Seahawks’ defense, the "immature" state of rookie QBs, and Sam Darnold’s incredible resurgence.

• [00:54:00] – Exclusive: Secretary Kristi Noem: Fresh off a northern border visit to Grand Forks, Noem discusses predator drones, the border wall’s 2028 completion goal, and the organized "sophisticated" riots in Minneapolis.

• [01:13:00] – Choosing Life: Tim Knutson of Dakota Hope Clinic shares powerful stories of how ultrasound technology is helping families choose adoption and life in rural North Dakota.

• [01:25:00] – Melania on the Big Screen: Breaking news on a special Flag Family showing of the hit movie Melania at West Acres Cinema.

• [01:31:00] – The Bio-Lab Threat: A chilling report on a secret Chinese bio-lab discovered in Las Vegas and the implications for internal national security.

The Jay Thomas Show from Thursday February 5th, 2026.

A power-packed Wednesday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show covers everything from high-stakes federal arrests to the future of Fargo’s financial health. Steve dives into the federal arrest of former CNN anchor Don Lemon following the St. Paul church protests and analyzes the "masterful" messaging of Border Czar Tom Homan as federal agent numbers begin to dwindle in Minneapolis. Closer to home, fiscal hawk Tony Gehrig joins the show to announce his return to the Fargo City Commission race, sounding the alarm on the city's $1.3 billion debt. Plus, a look at the "Giving Hearts" effort at the Emergency Food Pantry and a breakdown of the Minnesota Republican caucus results.

Key Moments

• Don Lemon in Federal Custody: Steve discusses the federal arrest of former CNN host Don Lemon in California. Following a local judge's refusal to bring charges in Minnesota, federal agents stepped in regarding Lemon's role in the disruption of a St. Paul church service, a move Steve argues is a necessary protection for houses of worship.

• Tony Gehrig’s Return: Former Fargo City Commissioner Tony Gehrig joins the program to discuss his 2026 candidacy. He critiques the city's 10.4% spending increase and warns that Fargo is "barreling towards bankruptcy" with its $1.3 billion debt load, specifically targeting special assessments and "nonsense" projects like parking ramps.

• Tom Homan’s Drawdown: Border Czar Tom Homan announces a reduction of 700 federal agents in Minnesota. Steve highlights Homan’s success in coordinating with local officials to move enforcement into jails rather than neighborhood streets, which Homan argues is safer for both agents and the community.

• Minnesota GOP Caucus Results: Steve breaks down the early results from the Republican straw polls, where House Speaker Lisa Demuth leads the field with over 37% of the vote, followed by Kendall Qualls and Mike Lindell.

• The Ward System Debate: During his interview, Tony Gehrig makes a quick case for the "ward system" in Fargo, arguing that the city is too diverse for a general commission and needs representation that mirrors specific neighborhoods like North Fargo and South Fargo.

• Emergency Food Pantry Impact: Stacey Loegeing, Executive Director of the Emergency Food Pantry, shares that her organization helped over 23,000 unique people last year and discusses a $75,000 match available for the upcoming Giving Hearts Day.

• Corporate Diversity Investigation: Steve notes a new report that the EEOC is investigating Nike for allegations that its diversity initiatives unlawfully discriminated against white employees and applicants.

• Retail Shift at West Acres: Longtime retailers Francesca’s and Eddie Bauer are closing their doors at Fargo's West Acres Mall, reflecting broader national trends in the retail landscape.

In this high-octane Wednesday edition of What’s On Your Mind, guest host Justin (JD Lake) fills in for Scott Hennan to navigate the intersection of faith, media, and global affairs. The episode features an exclusive, candid sit-down with legendary actor Kevin Sorbo, who discusses being a "victim of cancel culture" in Hollywood, his Minnesota roots, and his shift into family-friendly filmmaking.

The conversation doesn't stop at Tinseltown. General Blaine Holt breaks down the "Marxist playbook" behind recent civil unrest, while former America at Night host Rich Valdez opens up about his move to IHeartRadio and the future of streaming media. From the economic stability of gold and silver to the spiritual warfare occurring in America’s streets, this episode provides a grounded, conservative perspective on the week’s biggest headlines.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:01:15] – The Vegas Giveaway Recap: Kevin and Justin discuss the "sudden death" wheel spin at Kingpins that sent a lucky listener to see The Wizard of Oz at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

• [00:05:40] – The "Off-Color" Cancellation: A deep dive into the story of comedian Ben Bankis, who was canceled by a St. Paul comedy club over a controversial joke.

• [00:07:30] – Meeting McGraw Milhaven: The "hardest working man in radio" discusses taking over the America at Night legacy and returning the show to its Larry King-era roots.

• [00:13:00] – General Blaine Holt on Civil War Concerns: The General provides a chilling analysis of the "unchecked illegal immigration" and taxpayer fraud brewing in cities like Minneapolis.

• [00:15:30] – Targeting the Children: A disturbing look at reports of kindergartners being encouraged to join "ICE Out" protests in Portland.

• [00:18:00] – The Dollar in Danger: David Fisher from Landmark Capital explains the "teeter-totter effect" of the dollar index and why gold and silver remain a safe haven.

• [00:23:45] – Rich Valdez’s New Venture: The former producer for Mark Levin discusses his transition to streaming video on the Roku network and IHeartRadio.

• [00:29:10] – Kevin Sorbo’s Hollywood "Boot": Sorbo reveals the moment he was "blackballed" by the industry for his political stances and his transition to Sorbo Studios.

• [00:30:30] – Golfing with Trump and Ventura: Sorbo shares a fascinating story from 2005 about a three-day golf pairing with Donald Trump and Jesse Ventura.

• [00:34:10] – Standing Against the World: Sorbo highlights his new documentary featuring Oxford mathematician John Lennox, now streaming on Amazon.

In this jam-packed Wednesday edition of the "Need to Know Morning Show," hosts Alex Taylor and Kevin Flynn navigate the shifting winds of North Dakota—from a welcome 40-degree warm-up to the chilling financial reality facing the city of Fargo. The episode features an urgent sit-down with City Commission candidate Tony Gehrig, who sounds the alarm on a staggering $1.5 billion municipal debt and the "broken" system of special assessments.

Meanwhile, the team checks in with agronomist Bridget Riedel live from a frozen Devil’s Lake for the unique "Agronomy on Ice" event. Plus, the show dives into the latest headlines, including the "smarter enforcement" drawdown of ICE personnel in Minneapolis, a mysterious disappearance involving a high-profile news family, and a look at the "mass deportations" promised by the current administration.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:01:15] – The Ruby Red Slipper Test: Kevin recaps a wild elimination party at Kingpins, where Wizard of Oz trivia and a high-stakes wheel spin sent one lucky listener to Vegas for Valentine’s Day.

• [00:11:15] – Power from the Dirt: Agronomist Bridget Riedel discusses "Bactory"—a new technology from the UK that uses soil microbes to generate electricity in farm fields.

• [00:12:45] – The SAVE Act Debate: The crew dives into the controversy surrounding voter ID requirements and the logistical hurdles of the SAVE Act for married women.

• [00:20:00] – The Minneapolis Drawdown: Tom Homan takes the podium to announce a 700-person drawdown of law enforcement personnel in the Twin Cities, citing "unprecedented cooperation" from local jails.

• [00:21:40] – Transparency & Body Cams: A major policy shift is revealed as the administration moves to prioritize full body-camera deployment for federal agents on the ground.

• [00:25:00] – Fargo is Broke: Candidate Tony Gehrig delivers a blistering critique of Fargo’s fiscal health, breaking down the $9,500 debt currently owed by every man, woman, and child in the city.

• [00:27:10] – The Special Assessment Trap: A deep dive into why Fargo is one of the only regions in the country where the city—rather than the developer—acts as the bank for new home infrastructure.