Archives: Episodes

In this high-energy New Year’s Eve edition of the Need to Know Morning Show, host Kevin Flynn pulls no punches as he navigates the collision of local corruption and the turning of the 2026 calendar. The episode centers on the exploding daycare fraud scandal in Minnesota, with Kevin dissecting the "scramble to cover up" alleged misconduct by state officials. He dives into viral investigative reports, the "word salad" of political leadership, and the urgent call for government accountability.

The conversation shifts from the grit of politics to the joy of the season as Sports Director James McCarty joins to break down the massive slate of college bowl games and the evolving landscape of the 10-team playoff system. Plus, local legend and Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame inductee Steve Carney stops by to share "Rippin' Lips Tips" for the midwinter bite. Whether it's discussing the "creeping crud" of winter illness or the future of independent journalism, this episode captures a region at a crossroads as it rings in 2026.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:04:15] – The Daycare "Jig is Up" Kevin breaks down the baffling contradictions surrounding the Quality Leering Center in Minneapolis, questioning why the state claimed the facility was closed while owners claimed it was simply "outside operating hours."

[00:10:45] – The Nick Shirley Effect A deep dive into how 23-year-old independent journalist Nick Shirley did what state officials wouldn't: knocking on doors to expose $4 million in tax dollars going to empty buildings.

[00:14:20] – Trump’s "Long Game" vs. Walz Kevin reacts to Governor Tim Walz's Facebook post accusing the Trump administration of "politicizing" fraud investigations, while the federal government demands a 360-degree review of Minnesota’s spending.

[00:27:30] – The Land of Make-Believe Senate candidate David Han joins the program to discuss Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan’s controversial video and the broader "land of 10,000 frauds" narrative taking hold in the state.

[00:33:00] – Hall of Fame "Catching" Fresh off his induction into the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame, Steve Carney discusses 62-inch sturgeons and why an eight-inch hole is non-negotiable for serious anglers.

[00:35:10] – The ATV "Purring" Theory In one of the weirdest tips of the season, Carney debates whether leaving an ATV engine running actually attracts fish or just annoys fellow ice fishers.

[00:43:20] – Navigating the New Year’s Six James McCarty provides a masterclass on the new college football playoff format, explaining how traditional bowls like the Rose and Sugar now feed into the national championship hunt.

In this sharp-edged morning broadcast, Kevin Flynn and Alex Taylor reunite for the first post-New Year's show of 2026. The episode centers on the shifting political and economic landscape of America's major cities, specifically the inauguration of Zoran Mamdani as the 112th Mayor of New York City. Kevin and Alex dive into the "Zillow Reality Check," detailing the massive volume of million-dollar homes flooding the Manhattan market as residents flee new socialist policies.

The conversation isn't limited to the Big Apple; the duo draws stark parallels to Minnesota's own "hemorrhaging" of businesses and the rising tide of alleged fraudulent spending in state-funded programs. From "reparations theater" to the "projection" of political rivals, this episode is a deep dive into the cost of "free" government promises. On a lighter note, the show features an inspiring "Feel Good Friday" segment with Brian Solem of the Outdoor Adventure Foundation, highlighting how the organization is changing the lives of veterans and children through dream hunting and fishing trips.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:03:15] – Manhattan for Sale Kevin breaks down a shocking Zillow map of Manhattan, revealing over 3,300 high-end listings as the "wealthy class" begins a mass exodus to Florida and Nevada to escape impending tax hikes.

[00:12:45] – The Swearing-In Controversy A look at the inauguration of Mayor Mamdani and the growing trend of public officials being sworn in on the Koran instead of the Bible, sparking a debate on American founding foundations and cultural shifts.

[00:20:10] – The Billionaire Math Problem Kevin does the "whiteboard math" on Bernie Sanders’ "Tax the Rich" slogans, explaining why seizing the entire net worth of every U.S. billionaire still wouldn't dent the $37 trillion national debt.

[00:32:45] – The NYPD "Great Resignation" A deep dive into the high attrition rates of the New York Police Department, with over 14,000 officers leaving since 2020 due to low morale and lack of political support.

[00:45:50] – Soybean Asphalt: The Future of Highways? Ag expert Bridget Riedel discusses a revolutionary innovation: using soybean oil to create elastic, weather-resistant road surfaces that could survive extreme Northern temperatures.

[01:05:20] – Hunter’s Art & "Dad’s Exit" The crew laughs over reports of Hunter Biden’s $15 million debt, questioning why the value of his "million-dollar paintings" suddenly cratered the moment Joe Biden left office.

[01:18:15] – Dream Makers: Hunting for a Cause Brian Solem of the Outdoor Adventure Foundation shares moving stories of taking disabled veterans and terminally ill youth on bull elk and moose hunts, proving the healing power of the great outdoors.

In this hard-hitting Friday edition of What’s On Your Mind, guest host Kevin Flynn navigates a complex landscape of political upheaval, cultural tension, and the future of American agriculture. As Minnesota grapples with a multi-billion dollar deficit and lingering fraud scandals, the show features an in-depth conversation with gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls. Qualls outlines his vision for "right-sizing" government, tapping into the Iron Range’s rare earth minerals to achieve energy independence, and restoring what he calls the "American ethos" in a state facing deep divisions.

The second half of the show shifts gears into cultural and economic territory with Leon Francis of the Blackbeard Logic podcast, tackling the "great replacement theory" and the role of religious principles in public office. Finally, David Spickler from Lighthouse Commodities provides a sobering look at the 2026 grain markets, the impact of China tariffs, and how AI is beginning to revolutionize the family farm.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:02:45] – The Death of Mainstream Media Kevin discusses why traditional network news is losing its grip, citing the rise of independent journalists like Nick Shirley and the power of the "smartphone ciphers" in every citizen's pocket.

[00:08:55] – "Hold My Beer": The California vs. Minnesota Fraud Race A caller from Pasadena joins Kevin to compare the "rot" in California under Newsom to the current fraud scandals in Minnesota, debating where the next $100 billion discrepancy will be found.

[00:15:20] – Kendall Qualls: Mining the Future Gubernatorial candidate Kendall Qualls discusses opening a school of mining and engineering in Duluth to tap into copper and nickel reserves, aiming to end reliance on slave labor from the Congo and imports from China.

[00:22:10] – The Ballot or the Biden Treatment? Qualls predicts that Tim Walz may not be on the upcoming ballot, suggesting the DFL might give him the "Joe Biden treatment" to clear the slate of recent fraud headlines.

[00:33:45] – Virtual Knuckles: Leon Francis on Faith and Patriotism A passionate discussion on the systematic decoupling of America from its Judeo-Christian foundations and the controversial use of the Quran in swearing-in ceremonies for elected officials.

[00:46:15] – The Seventh Baby: A Tipping Point Discussion The crew reacts to local news reports about the first baby of the year, sparking a raw conversation about the "American ethos," demographic shifts, and the reality of the "armed populace."

[00:54:30] – AI on the Farm: 2026 Market Outlook David Spickler breaks down the "doom and gloom" in the soybean market and previews the 7th Annual Client Summit, focusing on how AI analytics are helping farmers navigate negative export news.

In this New Year’s Eve special, host Kevin Flynn dives into a whirlwind of local controversy and winter tradition. The episode kicks off with a critical look at a massive daycare fraud scandal rocking Minneapolis, with listeners weighing in on government accountability and "sanctuary state" policies.

The conversation then shifts from the heat of politics to the ice of the Northern Plains. Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki breaks down the "LRC" weather cycle and why we’re seeing more "clippers" than blizzards this year. We also hear from Adam Walker about the Patriot House Project, an inspiring initiative providing free ice fishing experiences for veterans. Whether it's discussing the "Cadillac of fish houses" or the "scams" in state government, this episode captures the unique tension between community heart and political frustration in 2026.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

[00:05:30] – The $70 Billion "Scam" Kevin discusses the massive financial discrepancies and alleged institutionalized fraud in California and Minnesota, comparing the spread of government "sanctuary" programs to "tumors" popping up across the region.

[00:15:45] – The Weather Wizard’s Forecast Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki explains the 73-day LRC cycle and why January is looking light on snow but heavy on "clippers" and Arctic air.

[00:33:15] – "Cadillac Fishing" & Ice Castles A look at how ice fishing has evolved from sitting on a bucket in -20°C weather to luxury "Ice Castles" featuring 60-inch flat screens and full kitchens.

[01:05:20] – The Patriot House Project Adam Walker joins the show to discuss providing veterans with free, fully-equipped 3-day ice fishing stays, highlighting a "blueprint" for veteran support in the Midwest.

[01:17:40] – The "Quality Leering Center" Mystery A deep dive into the viral investigation of a Minneapolis daycare with misspelled signs, $4 million in tax funding, and no children—until the cameras showed up.

[02:11:00] – The Death of College Football? Kevin and the crew get "sour" on the state of college sports, discussing the transfer portal, NIL money, and why they prefer the loyalty found in Bison athletes.

[02:43:00] – America First & "The Bar" Guest "Ruger" and caller Charlie discuss cultural assimilation, the importance of "America First" values, and the frustration with lowered standards in education and law.

The Jay Thomas Show from Monday January 5th, 2026.  Guests include former AZ Sheriff turned Congressional Candidate, Mark Lamb, Michelle Turnberg and Drew Wrigley

Host Steve Hallstrom kicks off the debut of his new morning time slot with a whirlwind of breaking news that has reshaped the political landscape over a single weekend. From the shockwaves of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announcing he will not seek re-election to the high-stakes U.S. military raid that captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, Hallstrom breaks down what these events mean for the conservative playbook and the average American. Featuring insights from Alpha News’ Liz Collin and NDSU Professor Dr. Thomas Ambrosio, this episode navigates the intersection of state corruption scandals, international regime changes, and the shifting tides of legacy media.

Key Moments

• The End of the Walz Era: Hallstrom discusses the breaking news that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is dropping out of the gubernatorial race. Hallstrom attributes this to mounting pressure from federal investigations into state fraud scandals and the intense spotlight brought by national influencers.

• A "Monroe Doctrine" Moment in Venezuela: A deep dive into the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife by U.S. forces. Hallstrom and Dr. Thomas Ambrosio analyze the "Trump Corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine, exploring the potential impact on global oil markets and the geopolitical message sent to China and Russia.

• The Klobuchar Factor: Journalist Liz Collin joins the show to discuss the "domino effect" in Minnesota politics. They speculate on rumors that Senator Amy Klobuchar may resign from the Senate to run for Governor, potentially creating a nearly unbeatable challenge for Republicans.

• CBS News and the "Elite" Pivot: Hallstrom highlights a surprising "Best Thing I Heard All Day"—a promise from the new CBS Evening News anchor to prioritize the perspective of average Americans over academics and elites.

• Local Political Reshuffling: Updates on the North Dakota political scene, including Julie Fedorchuk’s announcement for re-election to the U.S. House and Denise Kolpak throwing her hat in the ring for the Fargo Mayoral race.

• The "Key Three" Analysis: Hallstrom introduces his new segment focusing on stories that pass the "so what" test, prioritizing news that affects taxpayers, schools, and local communities over sensationalist headlines.

It’s a transitional Friday on The Steve Hallstrom Show as the program prepares to shift from its long-held afternoon slot to a new morning home. Host Steve Hallstrom and producer Addison reflect on a busy start to 2026, balancing local policy shifts in Fargo with a national gaze toward New York City’s radical new leadership. From the elimination of city commissions to a deep dive into the "warmth of collectivism" promised by NYC’s Socialist mayor, this episode explores the tension between rugged individualism and burgeoning government growth. Plus, an industry expert joins the show to discuss the evolving labor market and why the trades remain the safest bet for the next generation of workers.

Key Moments

• The Big Move: Steve announces that starting Monday, the show is moving to a 9:00 AM time slot. He discusses the "bittersweet" nature of leaving the afternoon behind but expresses excitement about joining the conversation while "the coffee is still hot."

• Fargo’s Commission Chopping Block: Mayor Tim Mahoney has recommended eliminating three volunteer boards: the Native American Commission, the Arts and Culture Commission, and the Human Rights Commission. Steve analyzes this move as a return to "minimalist government" and a necessary step in reducing city expenses.

• The "New Normal" for Crime: North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley releases the 2024 crime stats, reporting a 30% escalation in violent crime over the last decade. Despite a slight year-over-year decrease in murders, DUI arrests have surged to historical highs.

• Labor Market Realities: David Dietz, CEO of Preference Employment Solutions, stops by to discuss the cooling labor market. He notes that while the "COVID stimulus years" of five jobs for every worker are gone, the trades—electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techs—remain in high demand.

• Minnesota’s Voter Fraud Allegations: Republican Governor candidate Kendall Qualls formally requests the DOJ investigate alleged voter fraud in the Somali community, focusing on the state’s "vouching" system that allows one person to vouch for eight others without ID.

   

• New York’s Socialist Experiment: Bestselling author Dennis Neal joins the program to discuss New York City’s new mayor, Zoran Mamdani. They critique Mamdani’s pledge to replace "rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism," comparing his proposed policies to the decline seen in Portland, Oregon.

• Agriculture & Aid: Farmers across the region receive specifics on the $12 billion aid package. Hallstrom reports that soybean farmers will receive $30.88 per acre, while corn and sorghum producers will see $44.36 and $48.11 respectively.

The Jay Thomas Show from Wednesday, December 31st, 2025.  Guests include Jason Berg the host as well as Marc Simonet from the FM Legion Riders!

The Jay Thomas Show from Wednesday, December 31st, 2025.  Guests include Jason Berg the host as well as Marc Simonet from the FM Legion Riders!