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On the final day of 2025, host Steve Hallstrom reflects on a year of major shifts while looking ahead to a high-stakes 2026. This episode balances New Year’s nostalgia—including a deep dive into the true meaning of "Auld Lang Syne"—with heavy-hitting news updates. From congressional demands for Governor Tim Walz to testify on Capitol Hill regarding historic fraud to the rollout of Minnesota’s controversial new Paid Leave Act, the conversation explores the financial and political hurdles facing the region. Whether you’re interested in the "Person of the Year" debate, local fire department stats, or the million-dollar stakes of the college football transfer portal, this episode captures the heartbeat of a community on the brink of a new chapter.

Key Moments

• Capitol Hill Calling: Steve breaks down the major news that Congressional Republicans have invited Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison to testify in February regarding massive social services fraud in Minnesota. This follows the Trump administration's decision to freeze $185 million in childcare funding.

• Minnesota's Paid Leave Act: A detailed analysis of the new state benefit launching in 2026. Steve warns of the hidden costs, potential for abuse, and the reality that employees will see money taken from their paychecks for a benefit that doesn't offer full pay.

• The "Auld Lang Syne" Mystery: Ever wondered what you’re actually singing at midnight? Steve investigates the Scottish origins of the holiday anthem, its translation to "old long since," and why the version in It's a Wonderful Life sounds a little different.

• Fargo’s 2025 Totals: The Fargo Fire Department reports a staggering 14,600 calls for the year, with Steve noting the surprising fact that 75% of those calls are for medical emergencies rather than fires.

• Farmer's Perspective: Local farmer Trigvy Skolnis joins the show to discuss a year of record-large crops contrasted with "contract low" prices. They discuss the impact of Canadian wildfire smoke on soybean yields and the anxiety of the 2026 outlook.

• Million-Dollar Portals: The conversation turns to college athletics, where rumors of million-dollar NIL offers are drawing star players from NDSU and the Gophers into the transfer portal, changing the landscape of Division I sports.

• Person of the Year: Steve asks the audience to weigh in on who defined 2025, with early mentions for President Trump and local conservative legends.

As 2025 draws to a close, host Kevin Flynn dives into the explosive daycare fraud scandal currently rocking Minnesota. This episode features an exclusive conversation with Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, who details her years-long struggle to implement basic oversight—only to be blocked by the majority. From "ghost" daycares with misspelled signs to the potential $9 billion price tag of state-wide grift, the team explores the "web of a mess" left behind by the Walz administration. Plus, a hard-hitting Trooper Talk segment on dangerous "raddiest" trucks in the Bakken and a deep dive into the global strategy of soybean and sugar beet markets.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:03:15] National Bacon Day vs. Cultural Clashes Kevin discusses a bizarre supermarket incident in Dearborn and reflects on how "National Bacon Day" highlights the ongoing struggle for cultural assimilation in some American communities.

• [00:05:00] The $70 Billion Iceberg A look at the staggering fraud numbers across blue states, from $9 billion in Minnesota to a reported $70 billion in California, and why Scott Jennings argues that only jail time for elected officials will stop the cycle.

• [00:10:45] The Global "China Problem" Listener Jim Ball joins the show to discuss global strategist Peter Zeihan’s predictions regarding China’s aging population and why the Red River Valley remains the superior place to grow food.

• [00:15:30] Bakken Road Rage: "Bullet Holes and Duct Tape" A listener named Jerry confronts Captain Bryan Niewind about "raddy" sand trucks with bullet-ridden windshields and bald tires running rampant in North Dakota’s oil country.

• [00:18:45] Speaker Lisa Demuth: The Whistleblower’s Struggle Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth joins the show to explain how her 2019 bill requiring simple daycare attendance records was denied a hearing by Democrats.

• [00:20:15] "Quality Leering Center" and the Shredder Speaker Demuth reacts to the viral Nick Shirley video and reveals the shocking reality of "closed" centers that are still receiving state payments while document shredders hum in the background.

• [00:21:45] The "Committee Meeting" Bureaucracy Guest Mike Warner shares a story from the Obama administration about the "total incompetence" of a bureaucracy that only knows how to schedule the next meeting.

• [00:43:00] The "Dump Markets" of Sugar Mike Warner explains how European "dump markets" forced the U.S. to implement sugar tariffs to protect the $6 billion industry in the Red River Valley.

As the year winds down, the "New Year’s Eve Eve" edition of the Need to Know Morning Show tackles the heavy hitters. Host Kevin Flynn dives into the viral fallout of the Nick Shirley investigation into Twin Cities daycare fraud, including the now-infamous "Quality Leering Center" and Joe Biden’s mock diploma meme. Later, sugar beet industry veteran Mike Warner joins the program to explain why the Red River Valley relies on tariffs to survive global "dump markets" and how a record-breaking 13.4 million tons of beets actually get processed. Plus, a salute to law enforcement featuring probation officer Todd Wall and a look at why some residents would rather go to jail than defend America.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:03:15] The "Bacon Day" Invasion Kevin discusses a bizarre viral incident in Dearborn involving a supermarket bacon display and reflects on the cultural clashes surrounding National Bacon Day.

• [00:04:30] Joe Biden at the "Leering Center" A look at the viral memes following Nick Shirley’s investigation into Minneapolis daycare fronts, including the misspelling of "Learning" as "Leering" on multi-million dollar facilities.

• [00:10:45] The Fight for the "Bros" in 2026 Kevin plays highlights from The Five, where Tyrus and Kellyanne Conway break down why Democrats are struggling to win back young men who are "sick of losing the cultural war."

• [00:26:30] Jail Over Defense? Audio from Dearborn features a Muslim protester telling Nick Shirley he would choose jail time over enlisting to defend America against an Islamic nation like Iraq.

• [00:28:45] Hiding in Plain Sight Todd Lyons, Director of ICE, discusses how fraudsters are using "sanctuary rules" in Minnesota to facilitate human exploitation and material fraud.

• [00:33:00] Salute to Law Enforcement Meet Todd Wall, a 27-year veteran of the Fargo PD turned probation officer, as he discusses his career walking the beat in downtown Fargo and his recent trip to Iceland.

• [00:43:00] The "Dump Markets" of Sugar Mike Warner breaks down the $6 billion impact of the sugar industry and why tariffs are the only thing stopping Europe from crashing the local economy with surplus "dumped" sugar.

• [00:45:15] A Truck Line to Boise Warner puts the record-breaking sugar beet harvest into perspective: if you put this year's 13.4 million tons on trucks, the line would stretch from Fargo all the way to Idaho.

In this Tuesday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show, the focus remains on the explosive revelations of large-scale fraud in Minnesota and a push for greater government accountability. From heated exchanges on national news to local landmarks facing uncertain futures, Steve dives into the stories impacting the region as 2025 draws to a close.

Episode Highlights

• The Minnesota Fraud Crisis: Steve visits with Minnesota State Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson to discuss the staggering scale of alleged fraud—estimated by some to reach $8 billion to $10 billion. Johnson highlights systemic failures where "shell companies" collected state checks without providing services or undergoing site visits.

• Suspending New Programs: Minnesota State Representative Jim Joy calls for the immediate suspension of the state’s new paid family leave program, scheduled to begin January 1st, 2026. Joy argues that until the state's existing fraud issues are resolved, launching massive new programs is a recipe for further disaster.

• National Spotlight on Somali Fraud: Steve reviews a "scintillating" exchange on CNN where commentator Scott Jennings challenged traditional liberal defenses regarding fraud in Minneapolis's Somali community. Jennings argued that true accountability won't exist until high-ranking officials responsible for oversight face prison time.

• Historic Highway Safety: North Dakota Highway Patrol reports that deadly crashes have dropped to levels not seen in roughly 50 years. Officials credit the state’s primary seatbelt law, which went into effect in August 2023, for the significant decline in fatalities.

• A "Purple" Fentanyl Warning: The DEA is warning of "purple fentanyl" spreading through North Dakota, Minnesota, and the wider Midwest. This new form is particularly dangerous because standard overdose reversal drugs like Narcan (Naloxone) may not be effective against it.

• The End of an Era in Fergus Falls: The beloved Dairyland Drive-In, a landmark since 1955 known for its car-hop service, is officially for sale. The longtime family owners have struggled to find a buyer to continue the restaurant's legacy.

• Baby Name Trends: Essentia Health releases the most popular baby names of 2025, with Theodore topping the list for boys and Charlotte for girls.

The Jay Thomas Show from Tuesday December 30th, 2025.  Guests include host Jason Berg and your calls.

The final Monday of 2025 kicks off with a hard-hitting investigation into what is being called the largest fraud scandal in U.S. history. Host Kevin Flynn dives deep into the viral reporting of independent journalist Nick Shirley, who has been uncovering "ghost" daycare centers in Minneapolis that have collected millions in taxpayer dollars despite having no children on-site. The episode explores the "Somali-soda" playbook, the alleged negligence of Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison, and the growing national fallout. Plus, Ag Director Bridget Riedel joins to discuss global farmer protests in Greece and why the Trump administration is looking to scrap DEF requirements for American tractors.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:03:15] The Nick Shirley Investigation Kevin introduces the viral 45-minute documentary by YouTuber Nick Shirley, who used GoPros to confront fraudulent daycare fronts in Minneapolis that are reportedly funneling billions of taxpayer dollars.

• [00:06:15] The "Fraud Father" and Sergeant Schultz A look at Governor Tim Walz’s social media presence, where Kevin challenges listeners to find even one positive comment among thousands of residents criticizing his leadership.

• [00:11:30] Belly of the Beast: The $8 Billion Grift Kevin plays audio clips from Shirley's investigation, documenting "Learning Centers" (misspelled as "Leering Centers") that received millions in CCAP funding while neighbors testify they haven’t seen a child in eight years.

• [00:13:15] The "Closed Community" Voting Bloc A discussion on how the Somali community’s 100% voter participation creates a "bloc" that Kevin argues keeps certain Twin Cities politicians in power despite mounting evidence of systemic fraud.

• [00:18:30] Greek Farmers and the Olive Oil Blockade Ag Director Bridget Riedel reports on the "tractor wars" in Greece, where farmers have shut down international airports and border crossings over delayed EU subsidies.

• [00:19:50] The Death of DEF? Bridget breaks down the Trump administration’s plan to remove Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) requirements from farm equipment to reduce costs and red tape for American producers.

• [00:31:00] Racism vs. "Fraudphobia" Kevin reacts to audio of a Minneapolis daycare owner accusing a journalist of being "racist" for asking where the 74 licensed children are located, leading to a discussion on the misuse of labels to deflect accountability.

• [00:37:30] The "Ice" Encounter A bizarre and viral moment where a local woman attempts to stop journalists from filming a daycare by repeatedly screaming that they are "ICE" (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) in a neighborhood parking lot.

Kevin Flynn takes the helm for a high-stakes Monday edition of What's on Your Mind, turning a spotlight on the massive fraud scandals currently rocking Minnesota and spreading across the Midwest. From "ghost" daycares in Minneapolis to billion-dollar budget deficits, Kevin and local experts break down how taxpayer dollars are being drained while leadership looks the other way. The episode also features a look at the 2026 gubernatorial race, the impact of new state mandates on small businesses, and a lighter look at the NFL playoff race and a "early spring" weather forecast.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:03:15] The "Early Spring" Forecast Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki gives a sneak preview of the LRC winter outlook, suggesting that the region might be in for an unseasonably early spring this year.

• [00:04:30] I Investigated Minnesota's Billion-Dollar Fraud Kevin discusses the viral reporting of YouTuber Nick Shirley, who documented "daycare centers" receiving millions in state funding despite having no children present and signs with misspelled names.

• [00:06:30] The GOP Bench for 2026 A breakdown of the Republican candidates for Minnesota Governor, including Kendall Qualls, Lisa Demuth, and Mike Lindell, and why the party must unify to win.

• [00:11:00] Finding "Little Joey" a Daycare Kevin plays clips of Nick Shirley attempting to enroll a fictional child named "Joey" at various high-funded centers, only to be repeatedly turned away by staff who claim the manager is never present.

• [00:13:15] Minnesota Mike’s "Stolen Valor" Rant A fiery call from "Minnesota Mike," a Vietnam veteran, regarding Governor Tim Walz's leadership and the current state of politics in St. Paul.

• [00:23:00] Rep. Jim Joy on Checks and Balances Minnesota Representative Jim Joy (District 4B) joins the show to discuss the "staggering" lack of oversight in state-funded programs and his concerns over the upcoming Paid Family Leave mandate.

• [00:25:00] The "Paved with Gold" Deficit A breakdown of the numbers: Minnesota's $18.5 billion surplus has evaporated into a $6 billion deficit, with billions more lost to fraudulent grift.

• [00:28:45] The "White Supremacy" Scapegoat Kevin reacts to reports of Governor Walz dismissing fraud investigations as "white supremacy," a move the host calls mind-boggling deflection.

In this high-energy return from the holiday break, Steve Hallstrom dives straight into the storm—both the literal blizzard that paralyzed Minnesota roads and the political firestorm engulfing the state capitol. From the snowy slopes of Montana to the heated debates over government oversight, this episode explores a community grappling with massive fraud allegations while looking forward to a brighter, warmer new year.

Episode Highlights

• The Nick Shirley Bombshell: Steve discusses the 42-minute investigative video by a 23-year-old YouTuber that has amassed over 100 million views. The report alleges staggering fraud within Minnesota’s childcare and healthcare systems, sparking calls for Governor Tim Walz’s resignation and triggering immediate federal investigations by Homeland Security.

• A "Nasty" Sunday Blizzard: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki joins the show to break down the recent winter wallop that sent over 400 vehicles off the road. The duo looks ahead at the "clipper system" pattern for the season and reveals a surprising prediction for an early spring transition.

• Reflections from Big Sky: Steve shares personal stories from his Christmas vacation in Montana, including his humbling attempts at snowboarding and a controversial encounter with a restaurant sign that sparked a deeper conversation about law enforcement and the rule of law.

• The Culture of Subsidies: Guest listener Leon from Enderlin provides a poignant perspective on social commentator Jason Whitlock’s recent posts, discussing how government subsidies can inadvertently impact family structures and community incentives.

• Valentine’s Day in Vegas: Amidst the heavy news, the show announces an epic giveaway—an all-expenses-paid trip to Las Vegas for Valentine’s Day, including tickets to see the Wizard of Oz at the groundbreaking Sphere.

• Local News Roundup: Rapid-fire updates on a major "corruption of a minor" arrest in Jamestown, cost-cutting measures at the Fargo Public Library, and the tragic death of a Minnesota hospital security guard.

Get back into the swing of things with Kevin Flynn on this special post-Christmas edition of the Need to Know Morning Show. As the region recovers from holiday festivities, Kevin navigates a "Monday-feeling" Friday filled with critical news and local insights. This episode tackles the treacherous ice rinks forming on North Dakota and Minnesota highways, the growing national conversation surrounding the "WALZ Act" in response to massive fraud allegations, and a look ahead to the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential horizon. From heartwarming stories of community heroes to the latest military strikes against ISIS, Kevin ensures you have everything you need to know to close out the year.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:03:15] Trump’s Christmas Eve Strike Kevin reads the official statement from President Trump regarding military strikes against ISIS "scum" in Nigeria in response to the targeting of Christians.

• [00:04:15] Cookies for Santa? A charming audio clip of an eight-year-old girl asking Donald Trump if Santa gets mad if you forget the cookies, and the President’s "cherubic" response.

• [00:10:00] The "WALZ Act" & Stamped Out Fraud A deep dive into the $9 billion fraud scandal in Minnesota. Kevin plays clips from GOP lawmakers and New York officials discussing how "negligence" in blue states is costing residents $1,500 per person.

• [00:16:30] Ag Mom & Winter Cattle Care Ag Director Bridget Riedel checks in to discuss the surprising winter activity of lice on cattle and shares 4-H safety tips for surviving the brutal January "clipper" systems.

• [00:25:30] The Christmas Hero: Adam Martin The moving story of an innocent woman jailed for five months due to an AI error, and how F5 Project founder Adam Martin stepped in to drive her home to Tennessee.

• [00:32:00] The 2028 Horizon Kevin discusses new polling showing J.D. Vance leading the Republican pack by 18%, while Democrat chatter focuses on Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris.

• [00:39:15] Navy SEAL Workouts vs. Thirst Traps The team at The Five weighs in on J.D. Vance’s training videos and why nobody wants to see a "workout routine" during the week of Christmas cookies.

Kick off your post-Christmas Friday with Kevin Flynn as he dives into the strange "Monday feeling" of a holiday week and looks ahead to the high stakes of 2026. This episode balances festive reflections—including a review of the holiday flick Red One—with a hard-hitting look at the political landscape in Minnesota. Kevin breaks down the massive fraud allegations rocking the region, discusses the GOP’s path forward for the 2028 ticket, and reacts to President Trump’s recent military actions in Nigeria. Plus, a heartwarming call from a listener about the simple joy of rechargeable hand warmers and a nostalgic trip down memory lane regarding Fargo radio history.

Standout Moments & Timestamps

• [00:02:15] The 2026 Forecast Kevin discusses why the upcoming midterm elections will be "a biggin," focusing on the race to unseat Tim Walz and the importance of holding the House to avoid nonstop investigations.

• [00:09:00] The Best Gift in Decades Ryan from Aberdeen calls in to share how a pair of rechargeable electric hand warmers helped him recapture his "childlike sense of Christmas wonderment."

• [00:15:30] "Righteous Anger" & Subsidies Frequent contributor Grant from Hettinger delivers a fiery take on national debt, government subsidies, and the need for biblical leadership in modern politics.

• [00:21:30] Breaking News: Strikes in Nigeria A breakdown of President Trump’s recent military strikes against ISIS targets in Nigeria following the targeting of innocent Christians.

• [00:23:00] The "Tip of the Iceberg" Kevin discusses Representative Tom Emmer’s recent comments on Fox Business regarding massive fraud cases involving housing and autism clinics in the Somali community.

• [00:25:00] 61 for 61 Nostalgia A longtime listener calls in to reminisce about Kevin’s legendary radio promotions on a billboard to raise money for the Roger Maris Cancer Center.