Archives: Episodes

Steve Hallstrom kicks off a high-stakes Monday edition as the region prepares for Holy Week amidst rising geopolitical and economic tensions. With crude oil crossing the $100-per-barrel mark, Steve dives into the "CPAC Straw Poll" results for 2028 and a chilling report on $350 million in cash leaving the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport. The show features a deep dive into the controversial practice of civil asset forfeiture with filmmaker Patrick Reasonover and a live update from NDSU as the State Board of Higher Education prepares to name the university’s next president. Plus, a look at the "family compound" trend and why billionaires are fleeing California for Texas.

Key Moments

• NDSU Presidential Decision Day: Reporter Chris Larson joins the show live from the NDSU campus, where the final three candidates—Dr. Marshall Stewart, Dr. Bernie Savarese, and Dr. Alan Smith—are undergoing their second round of interviews. Steve previews the executive session where the Board of Higher Education will officially name the new president later this afternoon.

• When Cops Become Robbers: Documentary producer Patrick Reasonover discusses his new film exploring civil asset forfeiture. He explains how the policy allows law enforcement to seize property based on mere suspicion without a criminal conviction, and why 85% of Americans across the political spectrum now view the practice as un-American.

• The $350 Million MSP Cash Trail: Steve analyzes a startling report that $350 million in cash left the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport last year—more than any other airport in the U.S. Steve calls for a federal investigation, questioning the lack of state authority over these massive and suspicious outflows.

• The 2028 Republican Straw Poll: Following the CPAC convention, Steve breaks down the early 2028 frontrunners. J.D. Vance leads the pack with 53%, followed by Marco Rubio at 35%. Steve explores the possibility of a Vance-Rubio ticket and what it means for the future of the conservative movement.

• North Dakota National Guard Deployment: Public Affairs Officer Nathan Rivard joins to discuss 60 soldiers from the 131st Military Police Battalion heading to D.C. The volunteer mission supports a presidential executive order to combat rising crime in the nation’s capital through community safety patrols.

• Billionaires Fleeing the Wealth Tax: Steve reports on Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick’s move from California to Texas just 14 days before a proposed retroactive billionaire tax would have taken effect. Steve argues that "money won't stick around" where it is adversarialized by state governments.

• The "Family Compound" Sentiment: Following up on a viral discussion about multi-generational housing, Steve hears from listeners like Bill, who are considering "circling the wagons" to help their adult children navigate the crushing costs of taxes, insurance, and interest rates.

• L.A. School District Money Laundering: Steve highlights felony charges against a project manager in the Los Angeles School District who allegedly funneled $3 million in kickbacks from a $22 million contract, highlighting the risks of "big money in big systems."

With Scott Hennen reporting live from the "swamp" in Washington, D.C., Kevin Flynn takes the helm alongside the "future of talk radio"—Hayden Smith and Olivia from Turning Point USA NDSU. This Friday edition of What’s On Your Mind is a high-octane mix of local common sense and global high stakes.

The team dives into the "blue flu" sweeping through TSA, the infiltration of "kindergarten cabals" in the GOP, and a sobering look at the real threats facing America today. We also get an exclusive preview of actor Josh Duhamel’s new movie Preschool and a masterclass in parenting from Seattle-based author Stacey Manning. To top it off, Kevin shares a viral warning to those poking the "Red, White, and Blue Bear."

Standout Moments

• [01:05] The "Blue Flu": Hayden breaks down why certain airports are seeing massive delays, alleging that government workers are falsifying illness to protest the Trump administration.

• [03:41] No Kings, No Clues: Kevin and the students react to the "No Kings" protest at NDSU, questioning the logic of those who claim the President will never leave office.

• [09:53] Raising Warriors: Author Stacey Manning joins from Seattle to discuss her book, Raising a Conservative in a Woke City, and why she encourages parents to be "a year early rather than five minutes too late."

• [14:48] Josh Duhamel Returns: The Hollywood star talks about his new film Preschool, his wellness company Gatlin, and why shooting in London was actually cheaper than Malibu.

• [19:35] "Everybody Toots": Musician Matt Aakre joins the fun to talk about writing a song for Duhamel’s film that is "naughty enough for kids and nauseating for parents."

• [21:14] The Gatlin Mission: Duhamel gets serious about onshoring pharmaceutical manufacturing to North Dakota to end America's dependence on India and China.

• [25:57] The Dirty Bomb Scenario: A former military listener provides a terrifying breakdown of how a "dirty bomb" could be built in a standard machine shop and what it means for national security.

• [27:54] Poking the Bear: Kevin reads his viral open letter to those seeking to dismantle American culture, warning that the "Red, White, and Blue Bear" is about to wake up.

• [31:02] The Truth About "China Doug": Kevin defends North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum against "globalist" labels, sharing personal stories from their days playing bar trivia in the 90s.

With Scott Hennen en route to Washington D.C. to join the White House press pool, the "future of talk radio" takes the reins. Kevin Flynn is joined in-studio by Turning Point USA’s Hayden Smith and Titus Queen for a high-energy look at the culture war, California’s self-inflicted energy crisis, and the bizarre trends taking over modern schools.

The episode features an exclusive sit-down with Hollywood star and North Dakota native Josh Duhamel, who discusses his new movie Preschool, his wellness company Gatlin, and his mission to onshore pharmaceutical manufacturing to North Dakota. Later, author Stacey Manning joins from Seattle to provide a survival guide for conservative parents living in "woke" urban hubs. From the mechanics of Transformers to the science of grain markets, this Thursday edition covers it all.

Standout Moments

• [03:41] The Great Outdoors Ban: Kevin and the team react to a stunning proposal out of St. Paul to ban snowmobiles and ATVs on state lands—a move that would cripple Minnesota’s winter tourism.

• [04:22] Identifying as Animals: Hayden and Kevin share wild stories of "kitty litter boxes" appearing in rural North Dakota and Minnesota schools for students who identify as cats.

• [09:53] Thriving in the "Blue" Cities: Stacey Manning talks about her book, Raising a Conservative in a Woke City, and why she encourages her son to quit the band rather than wear a "masked trumpet."

• [13:30] Parenting Through the Rot: A deep dive into why red-state parents shouldn't be complacent about their local school districts.

• [14:48] Josh Duhamel on "Preschool": The actor discusses directing and starring in his new comedy, explaining why shooting in London was cheaper than his home in Malibu.

• [19:35] "Everybody Toots": Local musician Matt Aakre joins the call to talk about writing the "disgusting but catchy" music for Duhamel’s film.

• [20:30] The Gatlin Mission: Duhamel gets serious about his telemedicine company, his use of hormone replacement therapy, and why he wants to build a pharmaceutical plant in North Dakota to cut ties with China.

• [22:45] Larry David vs. Larry David: Kevin shares a hilarious story about getting repeated wrong-number calls from Josh Duhamel’s father, who shares a name with the Curb Your Enthusiasm creator.

• [36:05] Live from the Pool: Scott Hennen calls in from D.C. to discuss his exclusive spot in the White House "New Media" pool—one of only six reporters invited to cover the President’s agriculture summit.

• [43:40] Grain Market Volatility: Dave Spickler of Lighthouse Commodities breaks down why soybeans are "divorcing" from war news and reacting instead to the shifting schedule of Trump’s meeting with President Xi.

Host Scott Hennen tackles a heavy Wednesday news cycle, challenging listeners to define "evil" in a modern political landscape. From the murder of an innocent girl in Chicago to the "3D chess" being played in the U.S. Senate over the SAVE Act and Homeland Security funding, this episode dives deep into the moral and logistical battles for America’s future.

Scott is joined by North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong to discuss a path toward zero property taxes and the future of North Dakota agriculture. Later, Secretary of State Michael Howe explains why school board elections see such pathetic turnouts and whether moving them to November is the answer. Plus, a landmark verdict against social media giants and a weekly check-in on the gold and silver markets with David Fisher.

Standout Moments

• [00:08] Defining Evil: Scott reacts to listener criticism regarding his labeling of certain political actions as "evil," specifically addressing the dismissal of crime victims by sanctuary city leaders.

• [09:30] 3D Chess in the Senate: A breakdown of the secret deal between GOP leadership and Democrats to fund the TSA while bypassing enforcement restrictions via the "one big beautiful bill."

• [14:15] The $0.75 Gas Buy-Down: Pastor John Fisher and Gina Koenig discuss a unique community blessing where Journey Church is lowering gas prices for North Fargo neighbors.

• [25:30] The Governor’s Vision: Kelly Armstrong talks about "onshoring" fertilizer production and his goal to move all primary residential property tax relief into the Legacy Fund.

• [40:12] Meta’s Guilty Verdict: Breaking news from a Los Angeles court as Google and Meta are found liable for negligence regarding the mental health ramifications of their platforms.

• [48:45] The "SAVE Act" Mockery: A hilarious clip from Gutfeld! highlights the absurdity of politicians claiming they are "too stupid" to find their own birth certificates.

• [55:20] Summer Election Fatigue: Secretary of State Michael Howe discusses the "pathetic" 20% turnout in summer primaries and the legislative hurdles to moving local races to November.

• [74:15] Money, Markets, and Metals: David Fisher explains why central banks are in "chaos mode" and why gold remains in a massive bull market despite global war risks.

• [106:30] A Miracle in Memphis: Scott shares staggering crime reduction statistics from Stephen Miller that the "fake news" media refuse to report.

It’s a high-energy Friday on the Need to Know Morning Show! Hosts Kevin Flynn and Alex Taylor kick off the weekend with a mix of sports triumphs and political absurdity. From the North Dakota Fighting Hawks’ shutout victory in the hockey regionals to the chaotic, tequila-soaked insights of spring breakers in Florida, the team explores the massive gap between the "real world" and the Washington swamp.

Special guest Scott Hennen checks in live from a tractor-filled White House South Lawn to discuss National Ag Day, while we go behind the scenes of the Haiti Eye Mission with Dr. Lance Bergstrom. We also break down the Olympic Committee’s landmark decision on biological males in women’s sports and connect the dots on who is really funding the nationwide protest machine. Grab your coffee—it’s time to get up to speed.

Standout Moments

• [04:12] Spring Break "Smarts": Jesse Watters’ "Johnny" hits the beaches of Fort Lauderdale to ask students about the Ayatollah and the Federal Reserve. The results are as hilariously "drunk" as you’d expect.

   

• [08:08] The Sioux Shutout: Kevin recaps UND’s dominant 3-0 win over Merrimack, setting the stage for a massive regional final clash in Sioux Falls.

   

• [11:41] Live from the South Lawn: Scott Hennen reports from the White House briefing room, where "ginormous tractors" have taken over the lawn for a celebration of American agriculture.

   

• [17:35] Mission of Mercy: Dr. Lance Bergstrom and Kristen Fullman share harrowing and heart-wrenching stories from their recent 220-surgery marathon with the Haiti Eye Mission.

   

• [21:14] Fair Play for Females: A deep dive into the IOC’s decision to ban biological males from women's Olympic events, featuring insights from gold medalist Caitlyn Jenner.

   

• [23:03] The "Assimilation Act": Congressman Andy Ogles discusses his new bill aimed at overhauling legal immigration and moving away from "chain migration" to favor skills and national love.

   

• [29:15] Following the Money: Will Cain exposes the "worldwide paid protest pipeline," allegedly fueled by $278 million from a tech tycoon to sow cultural chaos.

   

• [31:02] The "Rig the Election" Act?: The team reacts to Morning Joe’s latest claims that Republicans are holding TSA salaries hostage to interfere with the 2026 vote.

   

The Need to Know Morning Show kicks into high gear this Thursday as Alex Taylor and Kevin Flynn tackle a heavy news cycle with a side of spring fever. The duo explores the growing crisis at the nation’s airports as the DHS shutdown leaves TSA agents without paychecks and travelers in record-breaking lines. We also hear a rare moment of Democratic dissent from Senator John Fetterman, who pleads with his party to put the country over politics.

On a lighter note, Kevin and Alex spark a debate on whether a young man’s ability to cook is the ultimate "love language" (and the perils of serving "Banquet chicken" on a first date). Plus, we get a masterclass in fishing rod prep from Steve Carney, an ag-marathon preview with Bridget Riedel, and a look at the 66th annual Toppers Car Show with Rich Barnes.

Standout Moments

• [00:00] A Sailor’s Salute: Opening the show with a stirring National Anthem from a U.S. Sailor at the Yankees vs. Giants MLB opener.

• [04:47] The "Dating Chef" Debate: Kevin argues that teaching his son to cook is a survival skill for the heart, while Alex warns about the "ulterior motives" of an at-home dinner invite.

• [08:48] Airport Agony: Chad Pergram reports on the "math" of the DHS shutdown, featuring stories of TSA agents selling plasma just to make rent while Democrats block funding for the fifth time.

• [13:38] Mom’s Best Advice: A listener’s message triggers a memory of a classic cooking tip: "If you can read, you can cook."

• [15:13] The "Kindergarten Cabal": A deep dive into Victor Marx’s claims of political "insertions" and dysfunction within the GOP.

• [19:10] Fetterman Breaks Ranks: Senator John Fetterman joins Hannity to call out the shutdown "scam," labeling it a failure that is hurting everyday working Americans.

• [23:41] Pro-Tip: The Q-Tip Test: Fishing legend Steve Carney explains how a simple Q-tip can save your fishing line from nicks on your rod guides.

• [27:54] 66 Years of Chrome: Rich Barnes, President of Toppers Car Club, previews the "one-and-done" rule for cars at this weekend’s show at Veterans Memorial Arena.

• [30:37] Global Cooling?: Dean Wysocki notes a record-breaking -105.5°F temperature in Antarctica, proving Mother Nature always has a way of evening the scales.

It’s Hump Day on the Need to Know Morning Show! Hosts Alex Taylor and Kevin Flynn navigate a wild Wednesday filled with everything from shifting spring forecasts to the latest political firestorms. The duo dives deep into the "woke" stadium policies making waves in Maryland, the GOP’s strategic chess match to end the government shutdown, and why certain Washington elites claim they can't find their own birth certificates.

Plus, we talk high-tech farming with Bridget Riedel, market "relief rallies" with Brien Krank, and get the dirt on the upcoming PRCA Rodeo at the Fargo Dome with announcer Tim Fuller.

Standout Moments

• [00:08] The "S word" Returns: Dean Wysocki drops the morning weather bomb—60 degrees today, but a messy rain-snow mix is looming for tomorrow.

• [04:48] Stadium Satire: Alex and Kevin react to Maryland’s debate over putting menstrual products in men’s restrooms at NFL and MLB stadiums.

• [22:32] Birth Certificate Blues: The team breaks down a hilarious Gutfeld! segment mocking politicians who claim they can’t produce basic ID to support the SAVE Act.

• [43:33] Space-Age Seeding: Ag expert Bridget Riedel explains "Furrow Vision" and how modern tractors are starting to look more like F-16 cockpits.

• [61:16] Market Correction or Relief Rally?: Financial pro Brien Krank discusses why the market "wants" to go up despite oil price pressures and airline cutbacks.

• [64:47] The "U-Hawk" Emerges: A look at the military’s new pilot-optional Blackhawk helicopters and Walmart’s futuristic drone delivery light poles.

• [74:41] Desert Disks: Kevin and Alex test their music trivia on the 1972 classic "A Horse with No Name" by America.

• [104:41] Eight Seconds of Glory: PRCA announcer Tim Fuller joins the show to preview the "wrecks, riders, and rodeo clowns" coming to the Fargo Dome this weekend.

Rev your engines and polish that chrome! In this high-octane episode, Jay Thomas broadcasts live from setup day at the Veterans Memorial Arena in West Fargo for the 66th Annual Toppers Rod and Custom Car Show. Jay is joined by club veteran Wayne Root to discuss why this "brand new show every year" remains the premier event for gearheads across seven states and Canada.

From a million-dollar mystery muscle car to a 1951 Ford "Lead Sled" designed to look like a shark, the arena is packed with automotive artistry. The guys also dive deep into the heart of the car community, discussing the charity work funded by the show and the "three-year rule" that keeps the lineup fresh. Plus, listeners call in to share heartbreaking stories of "the one that got away"—the classic cars they let go and regret to this day.

Key Moments

• The Legend of the Toppers Show: Wayne Root explains the club's strict philosophy of ensuring every year features a different lineup of cars, preventing the show from ever feeling repetitive.

• A Million-Dollar Mystery: Jay and Wayne tease a top-secret, million-dollar muscle car currently under wraps that promises to be the crown jewel of the weekend.

• The "Blue Sharker": A look at Matt Carlson’s wild 1951 Ford Victoria, a custom "lead sled" with a distinct shark theme that is a guaranteed hit for kids and collectors alike.

• Cars for a Cause: The hosts highlight that the show is a massive volunteer effort, with proceeds going toward local charities, service dogs, and feeding the hungry during the holidays.

• The Heartbreak Hotline: Jay takes calls from listeners sharing "sad stories" of legendary vehicles sold too soon—including a rare 1959 Pontiac Safari station wagon and a 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk.

• Bismarck’s Big Birthday Bash: Guests Darrell and Jeff stop by to preview the North Dakota 250 car show coming to the Capitol grounds this July, featuring a flag the size of half a football field.

• A Tale of Two Retractables: Builder Dave Owen debuts his stunning 1958 Ford Skyliner and tells a harrowing story about how an explosion near his shop back in Mandan nearly derailed his collection.

• Modern Muscle vs. Classic Class: Jim Jondal showcases his "2026-style" 1963 Split Window Corvette, a four-year restomod project packing over 600 horsepower, compared side-by-side with an all-original 1966 Corvette.

• The "Shagging Wagon": Dan from Sioux Falls drops in to discuss his pro-street orange Camaro and his ongoing project—a 1970s-style "boogie van" complete with authentic orange shag carpet.

A high-stakes Friday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show takes listeners inside a pivotal moment for the nation as President Trump convenes a crucial Cabinet meeting. Steve breaks down the President’s "Unleash Hell" warning to Iran and the startling intelligence that the regime was weeks away from a nuclear weapon. Back at home, the show exposes a massive technological "oversight" in Minnesota that allowed state funds to flow to overseas IP addresses untracked. Plus, the Trump administration’s E15 pivot for farmers, a "final salute" for an unclaimed Fargo Marine, and a remarkable story of faith from a South Sudanese leader living in the Red River Valley.

Key Moments

• Live from the Cabinet Room: Steve carries audio from President Trump’s latest Cabinet meeting. The President announces that 90% of Iran’s missile launchers have been destroyed and details how B-2 bombers obliterated nuclear facilities just weeks before Iran could finalize an atomic bomb. He warns the regime to deal now "before it is too late."

• The IP Address Smoking Gun: In a "best thing I heard all day" segment, Steve highlights explosive testimony from the Minnesota State Legislature. It was revealed that the state’s daycare billing system was designed without IP address tracking, allowing money to be billed from Japan and other overseas locations. Steve notes that officials turned on tracking for only two weeks before shutting it back off.

• The E15 Year-Round Win: Brenda Elmer, Executive Director of the North Dakota Corn Growers Association, joins the show to discuss the Trump administration’s decision to lift summer restrictions on E15 fuel. She explains how this move could create demand for an additional 2.4 billion bushels of corn annually, providing a vital lifeline to struggling regional farmers.

• Justice for an Unclaimed Marine: Steve shares the touching story of Susan Benson, a pioneering female Marine being buried today at Fargo National Cemetery. With no next of kin to claim her remains, Steve honors her service from 1958-1960 and invites the community to ensure she receives a dignified military burial.

• The TSA Pay Executive Order: As the DHS shutdown enters day 41 and TSA "call-outs" reach 47% in some airports, Steve details President Trump’s plan to use executive powers to pay agents immediately. He also breaks down Senate action to fund the department while excluding ICE and border protection.

• From South Sudan to Fargo: Steve introduces Abouk, a "Paramount Chief" and Christian believer from South Sudan currently working in Fargo healthcare. She shares her mission to bring medical supplies back to her home country and her perspective on why she supports President Trump’s traditional values.

• The Height Murder Investigation: Newly unsealed warrants reveal disturbing details in the Joshua Height murder case. Steve reports that police used GPS tracking on the suspect and are currently searching for a specific red-lidded tote in Otter Tail County believed to contain evidence of dismemberment.

• Herdina Construction Camp: Aaron Kochman and Brooks Peterson join the studio to discuss the 20-year legacy of the Herdina Construction Camp, highlighting how the trades are now outpacing four-year degrees in long-term income and personal fulfillment.

Steve Hallstrom delivers a high-stakes Thursday edition, taking listeners inside the White House as President Trump convenes his most consequential Cabinet meeting to date. With "Operation Epic Fury" entering its fourth week, Steve provides live coverage of the President's updates on the total dismantling of Iran’s military capabilities and the high-stakes ultimatum given to Tehran. Back at home, the show tackles the $5 million budget crisis at Fargo Public Schools, the Trump administration’s major E15 ethanol pivot for corn growers, and a remarkable story of faith and political aspiration from a South Sudanese leader living in Fargo.

Key Moments

• Live from the Cabinet Meeting: Steve carries audio from a pivotal Cabinet meeting where President Trump announces that 90% of Iran’s missile launchers have been destroyed. The President details the "obliteration" of the Iranian Navy and issues a final warning for the regime to accept a 15-point peace proposal "before it is too late."

• Economic Security as National Security: Vice President J.D. Vance and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent break down the strategy of "maximum pressure." Bessent reveals that 44% of Americans are already seeing the benefits of "no tax on tips and overtime" in their tax refunds, while Vance highlights the mission to ensure the "worst people in the world" never obtain a nuclear weapon.

• Fargo Schools’ Leadership Sacrifice: Fargo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Steiner joins the show to discuss his unusual request to freeze his $220,000 salary. Amidst a $5 million budget shortfall and potential staff cuts, Steiner explains why he felt it was essential to "model the behavior" he is asking of the district.

• The E15 Ethanol Win: Brenda Elmer, Executive Director of the North Dakota Corn Growers Association, reacts to the Trump administration’s move to allow year-round E15 fuel sales. She explains how permanent year-round access could create a 2.4 billion-bushel demand for corn—roughly the entire annual output of the state of Iowa.

• From South Sudan to the Red River Valley: Steve introduces Abouk, a Christian believer and "Paramount Chief" with political aspirations in South Sudan. Currently a healthcare provider in Fargo, Abouk shares her mission to bring life-saving medical supplies back to her home country and her perspective on American values.

• ICE at the Airports: Success or Stunt?: Steve breaks down the data following the deployment of ICE agents to 14 national airports. Despite political pushback, Steve cites wait-time statistics showing security lines have been cut nearly in half in major hubs like Houston and Atlanta.

• The "Criminal" Transition Narrative: Steve explores a narrative shift within the gay community regarding medical procedures for trans children. He reads from a viral post arguing that current medical practices involving minors have crossed a "criminal" line, a perspective he notes is becoming more common.

• Meta & Google Under Fire: A new report finds tech giants guilty of intentionally making social media platforms "too addicting" for children. Steve outlines five key takeaways from the report, highlighting the growing movement to hold big tech accountable for youth mental health.