Archives: Episodes

This episode of the Need to Know Morning Show features hosts Alex Taylor and Kevin Flynn as they cover a range of topics, from personal anecdotes to political and social commentary. The show opens with a discussion about the unusually warm and sunny forecast for the week in North Dakota, followed by Kevin's personal story of dealing with a bout of vertigo after a trip to the Twin Cities for a Vikings game.

The hosts delve into media and politics, discussing Jimmy Kimmel's return to ABC affiliates and the ongoing debate about free speech. Kevin shares a story about confronting protesters in Detroit Lakes, trying to understand their arguments about censorship and media mergers. The show also includes segments on local sports, from high school girls' golf to the Vikings' recent win, as well as an interview with Bridgette from Syngenta about the agricultural industry's latest developments and challenges. Other topics include the West Fargo Police Department's Pink Patch Project and a community sock drive.

Standout Moments:

• Vertigo and Bloody Marys (2:06): Kevin recounts his weekend trip to Minneapolis for a Vikings game, where he experienced a sudden case of vertigo and discusses the high cost of a Bloody Mary at U.S. Bank Stadium.
• A Beautiful Forecast (5:36): The hosts and meteorologist Dean Wysocki discuss the week's weather, predicting sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s and 80s for the next seven days, a rare occurrence for late September.
• Protester Encounters (12:38): Kevin tells the story of his attempts to engage protesters in Detroit Lakes in a rational conversation about censorship and free speech, and their refusal to engage with his questions.
• The Pink Patch Project (19:20): Rhonda Jorgensen from the West Fargo Police Department calls in to discuss their Pink Patch apparel and challenge coin fundraiser for the Sanford Breast Center.
• The Problem with Asian Lady Beetles (21:32): In a segment on agriculture, Bridgette explains why Asian lady beetles are suddenly becoming a nuisance in the area, moving from soybean fields to houses as the crops are harvested.

Host Steve Hallstrom covers a wide range of topics on this September 22, 2025, episode. The show begins with a tribute to the late Charlie Kirk, touching on the memorial service and the continuation of the American Comeback Tour in Minneapolis. The conversation then shifts to local news, including a dispute between South Fargo homeowners and the city over development plans near I-29 and 64th Avenue South.

Hallstrom also discusses other major headlines:

• Charlie Kirk's Legacy and Family: Erica Kirk has taken over as the new head of Turning Point USA, with speakers like Michael Knowles and Glenn Beck stepping in for the tour.
• Jimmy Kimmel's Return: ABC reinstated Jimmy Kimmel's show after his suspension following comments about Charlie Kirk's assassination.
• Health and Wellness News: President Trump and RFK Jr. announced a link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism, a claim facing pushback from medical experts and pharmaceutical companies.
• Political Tensions: The episode features a segment on the escalating dispute between North Dakota and South Dakota officials over a carbon pipeline and eminent domain.
• Market Updates and Other News: Hallstrom provides a look at the day's market performance, including record highs for the Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ, as well as the price of gold, silver, and Bitcoin. He also shares updates on the Minnesota Vikings and the WeFest 2026 lineup.

In this episode of the "Need to Know Morning Show," hosts Jay Thomas and Alex reflect on the assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA. They share highlights from his memorial service, including a powerful tribute from his widow, Erica Kirk. The hosts also touch on a variety of other topics, from the Vikings' football victory to a surprising announcement about autism and a discussion on work-life balance.

Episode Highlights

• A Widow's Forgiveness: Erica Kirk delivers a moving tribute to her husband, revealing that he had a faint smile on his lips when she viewed his body. She spoke of her faith and how she forgave the assassin, which led to a standing ovation from the crowd. (8:30)
• The Vikings Dominate: Big Game James and the hosts break down the Vikings' shocking 48-10 victory over the Bengals. They discuss how the win was a confidence booster for the team as they head overseas for their next two games. (12:00)
• A Bear-y Funny Story: The hosts lighten the mood by sharing a hilarious news story from Alaska about two black bears that got locked in a parked SUV and honked the horn until police arrived. (18:00)
• Work-Life Balance: The hosts discuss the importance of setting boundaries at work and taking time for oneself to avoid burnout. They share personal stories about prioritizing family and finding a healthy reset. (26:00)
• Autism and Tylenol: The hosts discuss a breaking news story about a major press conference from President Donald Trump on autism. They note that the announcement is expected to suggest a link between autism and acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol. (3:45)

In this episode, Scott reflects on his experience at the memorial service for Charlie Kirk in Arizona, describing it as a profound and overwhelming event. He shares a personal anecdote about a "social media fast" he took and talks about the difficulty of unplugging in the modern world. Scott and his guests discuss the impact of Kirk's assassination, highlighting the emotional eulogy given by his widow, Erica Kirk, and the forgiveness she extended to the assassin. The show also features a discussion with guest Bill O'Reilly about his book, Confronting Evil, and the importance of confronting evil at both an individual and societal level. Other topics include the future of the youth movement Charlie Kirk started, the challenges of modern agriculture, and the importance of individual health.

Episode Highlights

• Remembering Charlie Kirk: Scott and his guest, Jay, share their experiences attending Charlie Kirk's memorial service in Arizona, noting the massive turnout and the spiritual nature of the event. They discuss the impact of his work on young people and his ability to connect with a broad audience.  

• The Power of Forgiveness: The hosts and callers discuss the emotional eulogy delivered by Kirk's widow, Erica Kirk, who publicly forgave her husband's assassin. This moment is described as a powerful testament to her faith and a shocking act of grace.  

• A "Social Media Fast": Scott discusses how he took a break from social media, describing it as a "scourge" for much of the time. He notes the positive feeling of being unplugged and contrasts the vitriolic nature of social media with the grace and love he witnessed at the memorial.  

• The Future of the Movement: The show explores what's next for the movement Charlie Kirk built. There's a question of whether the momentum will last and whether others can carry the torch while maintaining the same focus on faith and love that defined Charlie.  

• Confronting Evil with Bill O'Reilly: Guest Bill O'Reilly discusses his book, Confronting Evil, and the uncanny timing of its release with Charlie Kirk's assassination and other global events. He talks about the need for people to take a stand against evil in their own communities.  

• Focus on Personal Health: The conversation pivots to personal wellness, as Scott talks about the importance of eating right, exercising, and reading to improve one's health, inspired by a book called Good Energy and a visit to the Mayo Clinic.

Guest host Kim Koppelman steps in for Steve Hallstrom to unpack the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it reveals about America’s political and cultural divides. Joined by policy fellow and former law enforcement officer David Zimmer, the conversation ranges from the roots of political violence to the corrosive effects of social media, the decline of civility, and the urgent need for cultural renewal. Later in the episode, local author Bethany Barnett shares the story behind her new book About Face and offers a message of healing and hope.

A thought-provoking episode that confronts hard realities but points toward rebuilding respect, dialogue, and community.

• [00:01:45] Kim opens with reflections on the Charlie Kirk assassination and America’s culture of violence

• [00:15:20] Guest David Zimmer on how political violence differs from traditional crime

• [00:28:10] The impact of social media on civility and discourse

• [00:45:35] Polling on tolerance for political violence — what the numbers really show

• [01:02:00] Stories of bipartisan cooperation and bridge-building from Kim’s legislative career

• [01:14:30] Firebombing of American Experiment offices and threats to free speech

• [01:24:50] Voices from the community: a young woman’s moving appeal for compassion and healing

• [01:32:00] Author Bethany Barnett introduces About Face and the theme “Peace Within the Battle”

• [01:40:15] Reflections on trauma, faith, and finding meaning after military service

This episode of the "Need to Know Morning Show" with Kevin and Alex is a deep dive into the ongoing fallout from the assassination of Charlie Kirk. The hosts discuss the widespread public and media reaction, including the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel's show and a bill proposed to make Kirk's birthday a national day of remembrance. They also talk about how Kirk's widow, Erica, has been named the new CEO of Turning Point USA, and the massive influx of new chapter requests since his death. The show also features reports on local weather, high school volleyball, and the return of the Minnesota Wild.

Standout Moments:

• 1:00 - The hosts announce a contest to win Lee Bryce tickets for first responders and discuss the rainy weather forecast for the weekend.
• 3:00 - The show shares the news that Charlie Kirk's widow, Erica Kirk, has been appointed as the new CEO of Turning Point USA.
• 4:00 - A discussion about the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel's show, with the hosts arguing that it was a business decision based on poor ratings and not an infringement on free speech.
• 6:00 - Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki gives a detailed weather report, including a look at the weekend and the forecast for West Fest in West Fargo.
• 8:00 - The hosts play a clip of Jesse Waters and other media personalities discussing the fallout from Jimmy Kimmel's show cancellation and the double standard of the left.
• 10:00 - A listener's text prompts a discussion about the phrase "it takes all of us," a common NFL slogan, and the hosts' skepticism about the NFL's social activism.
• 15:00 - The hosts talk about the National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk, which was anonymously passed by the Senate to be held on his birthday, October 14th.
• 16:00 - The hosts talk with Bridget Riedel, the show's Ag Director, who shares a story about a company called Bloom for Good, which sells socks to fund agricultural education.
• 18:00 - Bridget Riedel talks about the history of Iowa's famous butter cow and gives an update on the struggling soybean market.
• 19:00 - A listener's text prompts a discussion about a planned rally for Charlie Kirk and the need for people to combat "no concentration camp" messages.
• 21:00 - The hosts play a clip of Stephen Miller discussing the rhetoric used by the assassins of Charlie Kirk and the attempt on Donald Trump's life, and how it's linked to domestic terrorism.
• 24:00 - The hosts discuss a listener's text about a proposed "Kirk Education Accountability Act" in honor of Charlie Kirk.
• 25:00 - The show shares news of Erica Kirk's appointment as CEO of Turning Point USA and plays a clip of her vowing to continue her husband's legacy.
• 27:00 - A clip is played of a 15-year-old student from Utah who is starting a TPUSA chapter at his high school, a testament to Kirk's lasting impact on young people.
• 29:00 - The hosts share listener texts and discuss the importance of free speech in the workplace, and how a company can terminate an employee whose actions reflect poorly on the company.
• 31:00 - The hosts talk with Quincy from CARS Tree Service, who gives tips on fall tree maintenance, including fertilizing, wrapping young trees, and pruning.
• 35:00 - The show wraps up with a tribute to three police officers who were killed in York County, Pennsylvania, and a clip of Stephen Miller discussing the radicalization of domestic terrorism.
• 37:00 - The hosts play a clip of a listener's email, which says that Charlie Kirk didn't preach hate speech, but "speech that those people hated."
• 40:00 - The hosts read an email from a listener who theorizes the assassin was an "arrogant" kid who had previously debated Charlie Kirk and didn't like what he had to say.
• 44:00 - Jay Thomas announces the availability of Charlie Kirk memorial stickers, with all proceeds going to Turning Point USA.
• 45:00 - Leah from All Sauger Meats joins the show to talk about the store's specials and their new smoked barbecue ribs.
• 47:00 - Jay Thomas and Leah share a lighthearted story about a cat that hangs out in Jay's garage and is on medication for schizophrenia.

On this Thursday afternoon, Steve Hallstrom tackles the latest headlines in Fargo and beyond. The show's main focus is the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show by ABC, which followed comments Kimmel made about the death of Charlie Kirk. Hallstrom argues that the suspension is not a result of political censorship by Donald Trump, but rather a decision based on the principles of capitalism and supply and demand. He explains that local ABC affiliates lost audience members and advertisers who were offended by Kimmel's monologue, which attempted to link the assassin to "MAGA" and Republicans.

In local news, Hallstrom reports on two recent crimes in the Fargo-Moorhead area, including a robbery at gunpoint during a watch sale and a shooting that left one man with serious injuries. He also highlights a positive local story: the Tidal Wave Auto Spa's 17th annual charity event, which has raised more than $2 million for local non-profits in 17 years.

In the "Top Five at Five" segment, Hallstrom covers several consequential stories. He notes the record-low basis for North Dakota soybeans and discusses Taiwan's pledge to buy $10 billion in U.S. agricultural products over four years. He also touches on the challenges faced by Xcel Energy, which has disconnected power to a record number of Minnesota households for non-payment. The show concludes with a segment featuring three students from NDSU’s Challey Institute, who discuss how the program has broadened their perspectives on economics and public policy.

This episode of "What's on Your Mind" is broadcasting live from the Bakken in Watford City, North Dakota, where host Scott Hennen is attending a North Dakota Petroleum Council gathering. Hennen opens the show by talking about the challenges facing Minnesota, including its low education rankings and issues with crime and taxes. He then shifts focus to North Dakota's energy industry and its role in a global competition with China. Hennen speaks with several guests, including David Cook, the president of NDSU, and two energy industry experts, Steve Liebow and Kim McHugh, who discuss how the state is leading the charge in developing and utilizing new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI).

Standout Moments:

• 1:00 - Kevin Flynn from Minnesota talks about how his home state has become a "sanctuary state for gender-affirming surgery" and for illegal immigrants, while its education system and cities have declined.
• 4:30 - Hennen plays a portion of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's re-election campaign ad and critiques his claims about cutting taxes and improving education.
• 8:30 - Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki provides a weather report, mentioning a storm system in South Dakota that is bringing rain to central and eastern North Dakota.
• 10:45 - Dan Wright from Armada discusses the initiative to bring AI factories to energy-rich regions like North Dakota to help America win the AI race against China.
• 15:00 - Kevin Black from Creedence Energy discusses how oil and gas have helped build and fund infrastructure in Watford City, North Dakota.
• 20:00 - NDSU President David Cook talks about the new Honors College at the university, which will focus on artificial intelligence and human progress.
• 24:00 - Hennen and Cook discuss the assassination of Charlie Kirk and its impact, including a vigil held on the NDSU campus.
• 27:30 - Kim McHugh of Chevron talks about Chevron's recent partnership with Hess and how they will be using technology and AI to optimize oil production in North Dakota.
• 30:30 - Investor Steve Liebow explains how North Dakota's oil and gas can power data centers and AI factories, helping to beat China without raising power rates for local residents.

This episode of the "Need to Know Morning Show" kicks off with hosts Kevin and Alex discussing the wet weather ahead for the weekend, which might dampen bow hunting plans but is a welcome relief for some. The conversation quickly shifts to the serious topic of the murder of Charlie Kirk and the subsequent fallout, including the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel's show after a controversial joke about the killer. They also touch on the widespread condemnation of those celebrating the event online. The show features a variety of guests and segments, including an agriculture report from Bridget Riedel, an outdoor update with Steve Carney, and a political discussion with Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls.

Standout moments:

• 1:40 - Kevin talks about the messy weather forecast for the weekend, and his plan to re-anchor two dozen hunting decoys.
• 3:00 - The hosts discuss Jimmy Kimmel's show being pulled by Disney after he made a controversial joke about Charlie Kirk's killer.
• 7:10 - Bridget Riedel reports on avian bird flu being found in the region and cases of summer pneumonia in cattle.
• 12:10 - Kevin talks about a proposed bill to make October 14th, Charlie Kirk's birthday, a national holiday.
• 15:00 - Steve Carney discusses the impact of the warm weather on bow hunting, duck migration, and fishing patterns.
• 17:00 - A safety reminder is issued for hunters to wear a harness when in a tree stand.
• 19:00 - Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls joins the show to discuss his campaign and the current political landscape in the state.
• 23:00 - Qualls explains his three-point plan for Minnesota: economic prosperity, safe communities, and improving public schools.
• 25:00 - Qualls discusses the state's low rankings in math and reading, which have dropped from a high position to 45th and 34th, respectively.
• 26:30 - The hosts talk about the National Toy Hall of Fame finalists, which include popular toys like the Star Wars lightsaber, Tickle Me Elmo, and games like Battleship.