Episode Summary:
Host Scott Hennen dives into a packed Friday edition of "What's On Your Mind," starting with the excitement of the Sioux vs. Gophers hockey series in Grand Forks , which he calls the "Super Bowl of college hockey". Scott and co-host JT discuss the dynamic of cheering for their alma mater's opponent, and Scott reveals a kind gesture from Gophers coach Bob Motzko to former UND coach Brad Barry.
They announce the winners of tickets to the games—the new Lego store in Fargo and Hot Spring Spas and Pool Tables Too (Hot Tub Vinny). This leads to the "Feel Good Friday" segment with Vince Webker (Hot Tub Vinny) , who discusses the wellness mission of his company, focused on making wellness a reality. Vince and Scott discuss the life-changing benefits and science behind hot tubs, saunas, and cold plunges. Vince also touches on sports, particularly the Vikings' upcoming game against the Eagles, predicting Carson Wentz will start at quarterback.
The conversation shifts to politics, with a full hour scheduled with Senator Kevin Cramer to discuss the government shutdown. Scott shares a theory that the shutdown is tied to the timing of the "No Kings Rally" and plays a clip of Charlie Kirk debating a student on whether the Republican Party is controlled by billionaires, with Kirk arguing the wealthiest counties and many billionaires are actually on the left. Later, Scott interviews Dean Kyle Armitage of NDSCS Career and Technical Education about the value of trade careers—like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and culinary —and sponsorship programs with companies like Butler Machinery that help students work, get paid, and avoid loans. Finally, Senator Kevin Cramer joins the show to discuss the government shutdown , his desire to expose bureaucracy , the constitutional requirement for Congress to be paid , and answers listener questions on everything from congressional decorum to foreign aid, specifically mentioning a currency swap with Venezuela.
Standout Moments (Approximate Timestamps):
- 0:01: Scott Hennen's introduction and the excitement for the Sioux vs. Gophers rivalry, including Gopher Coach Bob Motzko's surprising, nice gesture to former UND coach Brad Barry.
- 0:08: "Feel Good Friday" with Vince Webker (Hot Tub Vinny) discussing the wellness benefits and science of hot tubs, saunas, and cold plunges.
- 0:21: Scott details the theory that the government shutdown is tied to the timing of the "No Kings Rally".
- 0:31: Interview with Dean Kyle Armitage of NDSCS Career and Technical Education about the value of trade careers and industry-college partnerships, like the one with Butler Machinery.
- 0:42: A classic clip of Charlie Kirk skillfully debating a liberal student, arguing that the majority of billionaires and wealthiest counties actually favor the political left.
- 0:54: Senator Kevin Cramer joins the show and addresses a caller who believes the government shutdown should last "not long enough".
- 1:04: Senator Cramer explains the constitutional reason why members of Congress are still paid during a government shutdown.
- 1:11: Senator Cramer addresses a listener question about the $42 billion to Venezuela, explaining it as an administration-supported currency swap to build trade relations.