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Steve Hallstrom is back in the chair after being gone yesterday, covering a wide array of topics for September 25, 2025. The show features economic news, local stories about West Nile virus and a controversial book pulled from a Moorhead school library, and national political debates including a potential TikTok sale and a lawsuit over voter registration data. Steve also introduces a new segment, "Let's Learn Together," to discuss North Dakota's Land Board investment strategy. Listeners weigh in on car sales, downtown consulting, and the use of taxpayer money.

The show began with a rapid-fire summary of the day's events, the Four O'Clock Wrap:

Weather: The temperature reached 74∘F , which is well above the average high of 68∘F for September 25th. The record high was 92∘F in 1885. The extended forecast looks nice, with a lot of sunshine.

Markets: It was a down day on Wall Street. The Dow was off

173 points , and the NASDAQ fell by 113 points.

Gas Prices: The national average for regular unleaded gas is $3.15 per gallon. North Dakota's average price is

$2.92.

Local News and Issues

West Nile Virus: Cases are rising across the region, making Minnesota and North Dakota a "hot spot". North Dakota has reported

78 cases so far this year , with Cass County leading at 16 cases. Minnesota has seen 70 cases.

Moorhead School Book Pulled: Moorhead Public Schools pulled a book titled Not My Idea, a book about whiteness from the library at Horizon Middle School. Superintendent Brandon Lunick stated the district needs to do a better job of

vetting books and is concerned about the book, which has only been checked out twice in two years.

Don's Car Wash Sale: One of Fargo's two Don's Car Wash locations, at 2552nd Avenue South, has been sold and is being rebranded as a Cenex store.

Fargo Downtown Amenities: The Downtown Community Partnership is seeking public input and hired a firm (Confluence) to look into refreshing and expanding public amenities like seating and signage. A listener text criticized this, arguing new benches would only lead to

"more maintenance costs for us to clean up the trash, urine, and feces that the homeless people who will be sleeping on them". Steve questioned the use of tax money to continually hire consultants for basic questions.

NDSU Enrollment: NDSU reports steady fall enrollment with 11,952 students, the exact number reported in both 2024 and 2023. Across the North Dakota University system, enrollment is up about 3.8 percent.

Hillsborough Dairy Farm: Riverview's proposed Hillsborough dairy farm received a concentrated animal feeding operation permit from the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality.

US Economic Growth: The US economy grew faster than previously estimated in the second quarter. Second quarter GDP saw a

3.8% increase over the first quarter, driven by strong consumer spending.

Unemployment Claims: Jobless claims were 218,000, down 14,000 from the prior week, which was significantly less than the estimated 235,000.

Car Sales: New car sales are getting a surprising boost heading into the fourth quarter, leading Cox Automotive to raise its 2025 new vehicle US sales forecast to $16.1 million. However, listener Tom said local sales were down, attributing it to farmers not selling their last year's crop, causing a ripple effect in the local economy.

North Dakota Land Board: The Land Board (made up of the Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Treasurer, and School Superintendent ) voted to make its investment strategy more aggressive and infrastructure focused. They shifted the infrastructure investment target from 7% to 10%, while lowering real estate from 10% to 8%. This move preceded a $100 million commitment toward a data center fund managed by Cloud Capital. Listeners questioned this, asking why state money is going to corporations instead of to issues like teacher pay or farmer support.

President Trump approved a deal that would keep TikTok alive in the US. A new joint venture of American companies would oversee the US business, holding

80% of the equity, while the Chinese company, ByteDance, holds less than 20%. Steve felt better about the deal since the US government is

not involved in the new company.DOJ Sues Minnesota SOS: The US Department of Justice is suing Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon for refusing to provide a copy of the state's voter registration list. The DOJ wants the data to assess Minnesota's compliance with federal election law. Simon resisted, citing privacy concerns over personal data like full names, dates of birth, and last four digits of Social Security numbers. Listener Kevin argued this is a non-issue, saying the federal government likely has the information already and the refusal makes Simon look like he has "something to hide".

Steve revisited the ongoing public discussion about

Tylenol (acetaminophen) and its potential link to autism, following a press conference by RFK and Trump. An old social media post from Tylenol's X account (formerly Twitter), dated March 7, 2017, was shared online, stating: "we actually don't recommend using any of our products while pregnant".

Steve confirmed there were actually three studies in 2025 and two studies in 2023 suggesting a potential tie between acetaminophen and autism/ADHD.

Tylenol's manufacturer, Kenview (a former Johnson & Johnson division), is now clarifying that they do not broadly recommend against Tylenol during pregnancy. Their official position is that patients should "always talk to your doctor" , and they consider their product the safest option for pregnant women's pain relief.

The FDA notes "observational associations, not causation" between acetaminophen and autism and ADHD.

The Need-to-Know Morning Show celebrates "National One-Hit Wonder Day" with a warm forecast featuring temperatures near 80∘F. However, the mood is quickly dampened by a discussion on political violence. The hosts play a powerful segment from Will Cain and JD Vance, who condemn the rhetoric of Democratic politicians (like Gavin Newsom and Jasmine Crockett) for inciting violence against ICE agents, referencing a shooting at a Dallas facility. They also discuss a troubling TikTok trend of pregnant women taking Tylenol, potentially endangering their babies due to anti-Trump sentiment.

Upcoming guests include Bridgette Readel on agriculture, discussing a controversial feed additive to reduce "cow farts" (methane emissions). A local segment introduces the co-owners of God Bless Vodka, three Army veterans who started a local beverage company, with the hosts sampling the new product on air. Finally, Steve Carney offers tips for the warm Minnesota duck opener, suggesting hunters use dark brown decoys as ducks haven't developed full color yet, and discusses the rise in water temperatures and algae blooms.

Standout Moments:

• The $117 Beetle Battle: The host details his struggle with swarming beetles, leading to an emergency Amazon order for two bug zappers and six traps. (00:00:54)
• Warm Weather Outlook: The forecast promises beautiful weather with highs near 80∘F through Tuesday, a rarity for late September. (00:02:11)
• Will Cain on Political Incitement: A segment from Will Cain is featured, arguing that rhetoric from Democratic leaders calling ICE agents "Gestapo" is a "crisis of rhetoric" leading to a "scourge of left-wing political violence." (00:27:08)
• Pregnant Women and Tylenol: A shocking discussion about pregnant liberal women taking Tylenol on TikTok, based on a conspiracy theory about Tylenol causing autism, due to their hatred for Trump. (00:30:17)
• God Bless Vodka Launch: Three local Army veterans, Mike Taylor, Cody Halverson, and Merle Bobbitt, join the show to discuss their new local, veteran-owned canned cocktail company. (00:39:53)
• Cow Methane & Feed Additives: Bridgette Readel discusses the mandate for California dairy farmers to reduce methane and the new, chemically synthesized feed additive (3 NOP) being tested. (00:46:21)
• Woolly Worm Winter Forecast: The meteorologist reveals his "woolly worm winter forecast," predicting a harsh start, a mild mid-winter, and a harsh end. (00:54:13)
• Warm Duck Opener Tips: Steve Carney offers tips for the unseasonably warm Minnesota duck opener, recommending hunters use strictly hen (dark brown) decoys, as the ducks have not fully colored up yet. (01:03:00)

Broadcasting live from the LeaderTown event at the University of Jamestown, this episode of What's on Your Mind explores life's big questions, focusing on the intersection of education, finance, and personal values. The host, Scott Hinton, asks listeners to reflect on whether they would send their children to the same college again, prompted by a debate on the cost of raising children and a caller who disagreed with the host's emphasis on marriage and kids.

A major segment features Dr. Polly Peterson and Dr. Liz Hunt from the University of Jamestown's Unrule School of Character, discussing the importance of character-focused education and revealing the surprisingly low average net tuition cost of the private university (about $19,000 for tuition, fees, room, and board). Later, the hosts talk with Tracie and Emmanuel Ohonme of Samaritan's Feet, who share their inspiring story of creating a global social enterprise that provides shoes to the impoverished.

The final hour features Brandon Lunak, Superintendent of Moorhead Public Schools, discussing the controversy over a book in a middle school library and the challenge of balancing state standards with community concerns. The episode closes with a sobering interview with filmmaker Rick Kupchella about his documentary, A Precarious State, which investigates the economic and social decline of Minnesota, highlighting alarming statistics on crime, wealth migration, and a failing education system.

Standout Moments:

• Question of the Day: College Regrets: The host introduces the day's question: would you send your children to the same college again? (00:00:26)
• The Cost of a Wakeboat: A comparison is made between a small fishing boat and a new wakeboat, which costs over $100,000. (00:05:22)
• University of Jamestown's Character Focus: Dr. Polly Peterson discusses the LeaderTown event and the university's focus on character-based leadership since 1883. (00:10:55)
• Affordability of Private School: The President of the University of Jamestown reveals the average net cost for tuition, fees, room, and board is about $19,000. (00:18:24)
• Charlie Kirk's College is a Scam: The host and meteorologist Dean Wysocki discuss Charlie Kirk's book and the value of a college education in the modern era. (00:25:31)
• Samaritan's Feet and The World Shoe: Tracie and Emmanuel Ohonme describe their global humanitarian organization and their social enterprise that manufactures shoes in Africa. (00:40:41)
• Moorhead School Book Controversy: Superintendent Brandon Lunak discusses the removal of the book Not My Idea, a book about whiteness from a middle school library. (00:54:19)

• Minnesota's "Precarious State": Filmmaker Rick Kupchella provides shocking statistics on crime (murder up 43% since 2019 ) and wealth migration (net loss of $5 billion ) in Minnesota for his documentary. (01:14:00)
• The Charlie Kirk Memorial Service: The host recounts a deeply moving, spontaneous moment of unity during the memorial service for Charlie Kirk at State Farm Stadium. (01:25:01)

On this episode of the Steve Hallstrom Show, guest host Justin from the Lakes Country steps in for Steve. Justin discusses a range of hot topics, from the weather to politics and sports. He shares a personal anecdote about his own experience as a guest host and speaks with nationally syndicated talk show host Rich Valdés about the Jimmy Kimmel controversy, Trump's presence at the U.N., and the legacy of Charlie Kirk. Later in the show, Justin talks with Dr. Matt Eaton from Dakota Implant and Sedation Center about his dental career and the services his practice offers.

• 00:00 - 04:12 - Justin, from Lakes Country, fills in for Steve Hallstrom and opens the show by talking about the weather, upcoming guests, and current news topics, including stock market numbers and fuel prices. He also reads a text message from a listener regarding Jimmy Kimmel's return to television.
• 04:12 - 09:47 - Justin talks about recent events, including Jimmy Kimmel's comeback and Trump's visit to the U.N., before introducing his guest, nationally syndicated talk show host Rich Valdés. The two discuss the Jimmy Kimmel controversy and the concept of free speech.
• 09:47 - 16:00 - Rich Valdés and Justin continue their conversation, touching on Trump's U.N. visit and the legacy of Charlie Kirk, discussing the "American revival" and the rise of left-wing violence in the U.S. They also talk about the safety concerns of being a public figure.
• 16:00 - 23:25 - Justin and Rich wrap up their discussion, and Justin corrects the radio station number for Rich's show. Justin then takes a call from Cliff in Moorhead, who shares his thoughts on the show's previous segment about vaccines and the media's coverage of current events. Justin also shares a story about Elon Musk and Donald Trump at Charlie Kirk's memorial service.
• 23:25 - 31:40 - Justin welcomes Dr. Matt Eaton from Dakota Implant and Sedation Center. Dr. Eaton talks about his career journey, his passion for implants and sedation dentistry, and the services his practice provides. They also discuss their shared experiences as guests on other radio shows and touch on their favorite NFL teams. The show concludes with a thank you to the listeners.

This episode of "What's On Your Mind?" covers a wide range of topics, from personal reflections to financial advice and societal commentary. The host, Scott, is on the road in Minneapolis for meetings before heading to the Leadertown Conference in Jamestown and NDSU in Fargo. He shares his observations about traveling, a heartwarming encounter with a family at the airport, and the importance of having children. He also discusses the dedication of NDSU's new music building, a political event involving Donald Trump and the King of England, and the state of modern journalism.

Later in the show, the team talks about the University of Mary's new tuition-free academies for nursing, accounting, and elementary education, and their goal of addressing the regional workforce needs. Listeners weigh in on the cost of raising children and Charlie Kirk's advice to get married and have kids as a primary life mission.

The later half of the episode features an in-depth conversation with North Dakota State Tax Commissioner Brian Kroshus, who clarifies the financial impact of the Trump tax cuts on the state. The show concludes with a lively discussion with financial expert Brien Krank, who provides an optimistic outlook on the current bull market, the potential of AI, and the importance of financial planning, particularly for young families.

Timestamps:

• [00:00 - 04:30] On the Road: The host shares his travel plans, discusses the NDSU music building dedication, and reflects on a political figure's assassination attempt.
• [04:30 - 08:45] The Family First Philosophy: The host recounts a touching story about a family at an airport, sparking a discussion about the challenges and rewards of raising children.
• [08:45 - 13:15] University of Mary's New Academies: An interview with Rachel Brash from the University of Mary highlights the school's new tuition-free programs and scholarships aimed at building the regional workforce.
• [13:15 - 17:00] The Trump Tax Cuts: North Dakota State Tax Commissioner Brian Kroshus provides context on a news story, explaining how tax cuts benefit taxpayers despite a potential reduction in state revenue.
• [17:00 - 22:45] The Booming Bull Market: Financial expert Brien Krank discusses the current market rally, the potential of AI, and why he believes we are in one of the biggest bull markets of a generation.
• [22:45 - 29:30] Financial Planning for Families: Brien Krank emphasizes the importance of early financial planning for young couples and families, tying it back to the show's earlier discussion about having children.

Concordia Cobbers Football head coach Terry Horan and Moorhead Spuds Football head coach Kevin Feeney join host Greg Burd for the 2025 Coaches Corner Podcast! This week they discuss what happens in tight games at the end on the sideline, about special teams, defense and how the offenses are doing with back up/first year QB’s running the show.   Sponsors: Third Drop Coffee Brady’s Service Camrud Foss Concrete

Steve tackles a variety of topics, from fantastic September weather to national news stories and the potential for political and spiritual revival. He engages with listeners on the intersection of faith and politics and provides his "Top 5 at 5" news wrap.

Key Moments:

• A "Drop-Dead Gorgeous" Day: Hallstrom revels in the beautiful September weather, noting it feels more like July with temperatures around 80 degrees and a blue sky.
• A Conversation on Revival: Hallstrom interviews Pastor Andy Veith about the meaning of revival, especially in the wake of the Charlie Kirk assassination. They discuss how a revival is an "awakening in the believer" and that the current conditions seem right for one.
• Neutral Approval for Minnesota Governor Tim Walz: Michelle Tafoya joins the show to discuss a recent KSTP-TV poll showing that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has a net-zero approval rating, with 47% approving and 47% disapproving.
• The "Top 5 at 5" News Wrap: Hallstrom runs through five top stories, including the conviction of a man for attempting to assassinate President Trump, the reassessment of the Ukraine-Russia situation by President Trump, and the six-month jail sentence for a former Minnesota lawmaker convicted of burglary.
• Tylenol and Autism Concerns: Hallstrom discusses an NPR story that references a Harvard study suggesting a possible link between a mother's Tylenol use during pregnancy and a child later being diagnosed with autism. He compares the handling of this story to the hydroxychloroquine debate during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this episode of "What's On Your Mind," host Scott Hennen broadcasts live from Arizona and is joined by Kevin Flynn back in the studio. They begin by discussing Kevin's recent bout of vertigo and Hennen’s reflections on the Charlie Kirk Memorial, which he attended in Arizona. Hennen describes the memorial as a powerful and emotional experience that was unlike anything he had ever seen, and he discusses his belief that the event's theme of faith and forgiveness should be a lasting legacy.

The hosts take calls and read texts from listeners who share their thoughts on the memorial, Trump's speech at the event, and the importance of faith. The conversation also moves to other topics, including a new claim about Tylenol use during pregnancy and a link to autism, Trump's speech at the U.N. on climate change, and the economic pressures on American families. Hennen also talks with a guest realtor in Arizona about the "You Can't Shovel Sunshine" campaign, and a caller named Cindy shares her perspective on why young families are having fewer children due to rising costs of living.

Standout Moments:

• Kevin's Vertigo (0:29): Kevin talks about his experience with a specific type of vertigo, which he says he got from "little calcium things floating around in [his] ear."
• Tylenol and Autism (1:58): The hosts and callers discuss the claim that Tylenol taken during pregnancy could be linked to autism, a subject brought up by President Trump.
• The Memorial in Arizona (2:40): Hennen describes the emotional memorial for Charlie Kirk at the Turning Point USA Headquarters, and the discussion continues throughout the show with listener calls and texts.
• The "You Can't Shovel Sunshine" Campaign (27:10): Hennen interviews a realtor in Arizona about the benefits of buying property there, and they discuss the affordability of homes in different areas of the state.
• Economic Pressures on Families (29:20): A caller named Cindy explains her viewpoint that the rising cost of living, from rent to diapers, is the primary reason young families are having fewer children today.

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.