In this heartfelt, high-energy episode of Need-to-Know Morning Show, Steve Hallstrom (flying solo while Kevin and Alex are off) leads a lively Friday morning ride through local stories, political commentary, and deeply personal reflections. From a Sonic the Hedgehog-themed birthday party to a powerful community giveaway that left families in tears, Steve dives into the moments that matter — laughter, leadership, faith, weather, sports, and even screw worms. 🐛
Listeners call in with real stories of addiction recovery, local heroism, and nuanced views on pastors getting political. Meanwhile, Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki checks in regularly with spot-on forecasts, and Sports Director James McCarty drops in with Timberwolves, Twins, and golf updates.
It’s a 100-minute journey that’s got everything: gratitude, grit, and just the right dose of Midwestern sass.
✨ Standout Moments & Timestamps:
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🎈 0:04 – Steve kicks off with stories from his son's Sonic the Hedgehog birthday party, complete with balloons and a hilarious electric pump mishap.
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💸 18:45 – Tear-jerking moment as Steve recounts a $10,000 grocery giveaway to a local family with three teenage boys — “There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.”
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🧠 28:10 – Thoughtful discussion on whether pastors should endorse political candidates from the pulpit sparks heated but respectful debate.
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🌤️ 40:20 – Dean Wysocki gives a weekend weather update and reflects on the bond between broadcasters and listeners: “It feels like you’re talking to one person.”
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🚔 1:02:30 – A chilling but inspiring story about a fentanyl survivor named Justin, who fled Minneapolis and is now clean, working, and thriving in Fargo.
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🏀 1:17:00 – James McCarty brings sports talk: Wolves’ Summer League stars, Twins vs. Pirates preview, and what’s next for Tom Hoge after a tough golf outing.
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🎂 1:35:50 – Heartwarming birthday shoutout to Steve’s wife, Tracy — a Proverbs 31 woman and “the prettiest girl in the world.”