The Steve Hallstrom Show

The Flag - AM 1100 and FM 92.3

Join Steve Hallstrom as he tackles the issues that matter most to you. With razor-sharp wit and unwavering conviction, Steve cuts through the noise and provides you with honest, unfiltered commentary that speaks directly to the issues that affect our community. With interactive segments and lively call-ins, listeners will be front and center in the conversation. Steve keeps you informed, empowered, and inspired. Tune in weekdays to catch the wave of conservative thought and be part of a community that celebrates the timeless principles that make our country great.

  1. 4D AGO

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 645: Adolescent Diabetes Alarms & Fargo’s Budget Battlefield

    Steve Hallstrom returns to the Fargo studio after a trip to Watford City to tackle a series of urgent warnings for the region. From a potential financial "trouble" facing Fargo Public Schools to a staggering health alert concerning one in three U.S. teens, this Friday edition doesn't pull any punches. Steve also breaks down the shifting spring flood outlook for the Red River Valley and visits with key leaders about state financial health and common-sense policy agendas. Plus, a look at "sneaky snacks" hiding massive sugar loads and why A-Rod is coming to the Valley. Key Moments Fargo Schools’ Budget Warning: Superintendent Dr. Corey Steiner warns that Fargo Public Schools is facing a $5 million deficit. Steiner details a plan to close the gap through attrition and administrative cuts but cautions that deeper, more "painful" cuts loom if a critical November mill levy vote fails. Adolescent Health Crisis: Steve dives into a CDC study revealing that nearly one in three American teenagers now has prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. He breaks down how acquired factors like ultra-processed foods and sedentary screen time are driving the trend and identifies the "Sneaky Six" foods parents should watch. Red River Flood Watch: The spring flood risk for the Red River Valley has been upgraded from low to moderate. Steve notes that significant late-winter snowfall and high soil moisture have officials keeping a close eye on the rising threat. A-Rod is Fargo Bound: MLB legend Alex Rodriguez has been announced as the keynote speaker for the Chamber’s Voices of Vision event in late May. Steve reflects on Rodriguez’s complex legacy, including his history with performance-enhancing drugs, but welcomes the entrepreneur’s story of "overcoming mistakes". The "Road to Opportunity": Justin Stemen of Americans for Prosperity North Dakota joins the show to unveil a 2027 policy agenda. The group is pushing for the total elimination of the state income tax, expanded property tax relief, and the implementation of a North Dakota "REINS Act" to curb government overreach. State Financial Watchdogs: Lisa Kruse, Commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Financial Institutions, discusses the stability of the state's community banks. Kruse highlights the rising threat of Bitcoin ATM fraud and explains why North Dakota’s conservative banking approach has prevented a failure since 1989. Target Joins "MAHA": In a win for clean labeling, Minneapolis-based Target announces it will stop selling cereals with synthetic dyes like Red 40 by…

    1h 16m
  2. 5D AGO

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 644: SOTU Showdowns & J.D. Vance’s War on Fraud

    Steve Hallstrom broadcasts live from Watford City, North Dakota, to break down the massive fallout from President Trump’s high-stakes State of the Union address. This episode dives into the "brilliant" political maneuver that forced a clear divide in Congress and explores the immediate ripples felt in the Midwest. From J.D. Vance’s aggressive move to freeze Medicaid funding in Minnesota to a historic $345 million judgment against Greenpeace in North Dakota, the "Happy Warrior" navigates a firehose of news. Plus, a somber update on the Isadora Wengel investigation, the "sneaky snacks" contributing to a teen diabetes spike, and why A-Rod is coming to the Valley. Key Moments The SOTU Litmus Test: Steve analyzes the most effective political tactic of the night: President Trump’s demand that legislators stand if they agree the government’s first duty is to protect citizens over illegal aliens. Steve discusses the visual of seated Democrats and what it signals for the upcoming midterm elections. JD Vance vs. Minnesota Fraud: As the newly minted "fraud czar," Vice President J.D. Vance announces a temporary freeze on $259 million in Medicaid reimbursements to Minnesota. Steve breaks down Vance’s argument that "sham businesses" have high-jacked funds meant for autistic children, forcing a "tough love" wake-up call for state leadership. Greenpeace’s $345 Million Bill: A North Dakota judge orders Greenpeace to pay Energy Transfer nearly $350 million for damages and defamation stemming from the DAPL protests. With only $1.4 million in cash on hand, Steve explores how this ruling could effectively shut down the environmental group. The Isadora Wengel Puzzle: Somber news continues in the search for missing West Fargo woman Isadora Wengel. While suspect Joshua Height awaits his March hearing, prosecutors admit their biggest hurdle is proving a death occurred without a body, leaning instead on "gold standard" DNA found on a Sawzall blade. Adolescent Health Alert: Steve examines a staggering CDC study showing nearly one in three U.S. teens has prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. He identifies the "Sneaky Six" foods—including flavored yogurt and granola bars—that are driving this acquired health crisis. On the Farm in San Antonio: Ag Director Bridget Riedel joins the show from the Commodity Classic to unveil Fendt’s new 1000 Vario tractor. She explains how new technology allows farmers to adjust tire pressure directly from the cab to improve soil health and efficiency. District 28 "Hijacking": State Senator Robert Erbele joins the program to recount a chaotic…

    1h 16m
  3. 6D AGO

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 643: State of the Union Showdowns & Bison Football's Vegas Dream

    A seismic shift is hitting the Red River Valley and beyond. Steve Hallstrom breaks down the most viral moments from President Trump’s State of the Union address, including the "brilliant" political tactic that forced Democrats to choose between American citizens and illegal immigrants. We also dive into the historic transformation of NDSU Football as they officially move to the FBS, featuring a Mountain West schedule that includes dream road trips to Las Vegas and Hawaii. Plus, an inside look at the "District 28 Kerfuffle" with Senator Robert Erbele, a somber update on a high-profile local murder investigation, and why 145,000 missing children are the real story of the border surge. Key Moments The SOTU "Pick a Side" Moment: Steve analyzes the State of the Union address, highlighting the moment President Trump asked legislators to stand if they agreed the government’s first duty is to protect citizens over illegal aliens. Steve discusses the visual of seated Democrats and what it means for the upcoming midterms. Bison Football’s FBS Roadmap: Following NDSU’s jump to the FBS, Steve reveals the first glimpses of the new schedule. Bison fans can look forward to a home game against Wyoming and legendary road trips to face UNLV in Las Vegas and the Rainbow Warriors in Hawaii this fall. The District 28 "Hijacking": State Senator Robert Erbele joins the show to provide a "tick-tock" of a chaotic Republican district meeting. Erbele describes an attempted takeover of the stage by an organized group and explains the procedural battles involving Robert’s Rules of Order. The 145,000 Children Number: Border Czar Tom Homan drops a staggering statistic on Fox & Friends: the Trump administration has located 145,000 unaccompanied children previously "lost" in the federal system. Steve puts the number in context, noting it is equal to the entire population of Fargo. Isadora Wengel Search Continues: Steve provides a heart-wrenching update on the search for missing West Fargo woman Isadora Wengel. He shares details on a massive community search effort at Dyke East Park and the "horrific" new evidence revealed in charging documents. The $5 Million Bail Debate: Legal expert Jeff Braidall joins the program to explain the constitutional mechanics of why a judge allowed bail for a suspected murderer. He breaks down the Eighth Amendment and North Dakota’s specific laws regarding capital offenses. Hillary’s Sudden "Common Sense": Steve reacts to a surprising soundbite from Hillary Clinton in Munich, where she…

    1h 16m
  4. FEB 24

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 642: SOTU Local Stars

    A high-energy Tuesday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show looks toward Washington D.C. as the State of the Union address takes center stage. Steve highlights the local figures heading to the capital, including "The Godfather" of North Dakota talk radio, Scott Hennin, who is attending as the guest of Senator Kevin Cramer. The show also explores a major victory for Fargo public safety as crime rates plunge, a shocking world-record sale in the world of Pokémon, and the unsettling details surrounding a high-profile local murder investigation. Plus, Steve breaks down why a $100 million housing program in Minnesota is reportedly 90% fraud and why Hillary Clinton is suddenly starting to make "common sense" on border security. Key Moments State of the Union Local Flavor: Steve celebrates the news that talk radio icon Scott Hennin will attend the State of the Union as the guest of Senator Kevin Cramer. He also notes that Moorhead’s Sean Severson (Swing Barrel Brewing) will be in attendance as a guest of Senator Amy Klobuchar, highlighting the strategic importance of the Clay County voting bloc. Fargo’s Crime Crackdown: Police Chief David Zabolsky reports a 10% drop in violent crime in Fargo for 2025. Steve breaks down the promising numbers: rapes down 37%, murders down 33%, and burglaries down 29%, though he notes a troubling five-year high in drug overdoses driven by fentanyl. Hillary’s Border Shift: Steve reacts to Hillary Clinton’s recent comments in Munich, where she admitted that migration has been "disruptive and destabilizing". Steve questions the timing of this shift, wondering if the left is only now seeing the light because their previous policies have become "politically unprofitable". The $16.4 Million Pikachu: Steve and producer Addison discuss YouTuber Logan Paul’s record-breaking sale of a rare 1998 Japanese Pikachu Illustrator card. Steve uses the bizarre sale to discuss the mechanics of supply and demand and the "mind-blowing" values of modern collectibles. Minnesota’s 90% Fraud Crisis: Steve highlights a report from KSTP’s Jake Holes alleging that a former U.S. Attorney found a housing stabilization program to be almost entirely fraud. Steve compares the scale of this state crisis to federal spending, calling it an "unthinkable" theft from taxpayers. USA Hockey Brotherhood: Steve celebrates the U.S. men’s hockey team’s gold medal win and defends hero Jack Hughes against "toxic masculinity" critiques. He previews the team’s upcoming visit to the White House and argues that a golden goal should…

    1h 17m
  5. FEB 23

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 641: The Steve Hallstrom Show: Golden Goals, Giving Hearts, and the Chick-fil-A Mission

    A massive Monday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show celebrates a historic weekend for American sports and regional generosity. Steve breaks down the U.S. Olympic hockey team’s first gold medal win in 46 years and fires back at critics attempting to overshadow the victory with political "toxic masculinity" tropes. The show also celebrates a staggering $30.4 million raised during Giving Hearts Day 2026 and features an exclusive interview with the new owner-operator of Fargo’s West Acres Chick-fil-A. Plus, a look at the "baby bump" hitting Minnesota’s paid leave program and the somber search for Isadora Wengel. Key Moments USA Hockey’s Golden Moment: Steve celebrates the U.S. men’s hockey team’s thrilling overtime win against Canada. He highlights the "pitch perfect" response from hero Jack Hughes, who—despite losing two teeth during the game—declared the win was "all for the country." Steve also previews the team's upcoming visit to the State of the Union address as guests of President Trump. Giving Hearts Day Triumph: Steve broadcasts live from the Dakota Medical Foundation as Giving Hearts Day 2026 reaches a monumental $30.4 million. Pat Traynor and Gina Pinovich join the show to discuss how the "Most Generous Region" continues to break barriers, with over 325 new volunteers joining local nonprofits. Meet Fargo’s New Chick-fil-A Leader: Sung Kim, the new owner-operator of the West Acres Chick-fil-A and a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain, joins the studio. Kim shares his journey from a South Korean student to a leader in an organization that "genuinely honors God" and invests in the next generation. The Search for Isadora Wengel: A somber update on the investigation into missing West Fargo woman Isadora Wengel. Steve discusses the community search effort at Dyke East Park and the horrific new evidence revealed in charging documents against her accused killer. Operation Metro Surge Drawdown: Steve analyzes Tom Homan’s announcement that over 1,000 federal agents have already left the Twin Cities. He notes Homan’s stunning report that ICE has located 3,364 unaccompanied children in Minnesota that were previously "lost" in the federal system. Minnesota’s Paid Leave Crisis: Reports indicate that Minnesota’s new Paid Family Leave program is already nearly out of money just weeks after launching. Steve explores why approvals are running 26% above forecast and the potential for a "baby bump" to drain state resources. Epstein Files & Critical Thinking: Steve addresses the latest release of Jeffrey Epstein files, noting that while the documents…

    1h 16m
  6. FEB 21

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 640: Election Integrity & The $18 Million Beating Heart

    A power-packed edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show as guest host Greg Stemen steps in to navigate a massive news cycle. The episode features an essential deep dive into election security with North Dakota Secretary of State Michael Howe, who explains why North Dakota’s unique "no registration" system actually makes it the most secure state in the nation. We also break down the historic move of NDSU Football to the FBS , the staggering scale of Minnesota’s $20 billion fraud crisis , and the true cost of agricultural labor. Plus, a live update on the record-breaking generosity of Giving Hearts Day 2026. +4 Key Moments North Dakota’s Election Fortress: Secretary of State Michael Howe joins the show to discuss why North Dakota is the only state without voter registration. He explains the state's "nightly" cleaning of voter files and the real-time cross-checks with the DOT that ensure only citizens cast ballots, arguing that this streamlined process avoids the "one-size-fits-all" failures of federal mandates. Bison Football Levels Up: Broadcaster Brian Sean joins the studio to analyze NDSU’s jump to the FBS and the Mountain West Conference. They discuss the $17.5 million in private donor funding covering entry fees and why the timing was critical to avoid a "lame duck" season. The "One Job" Crisis: Greg Stemen highlights jaw-dropping reports from St. Paul, where fraud in state programs is now estimated at $20 billion—the equivalent of $2.3 trillion at the federal level. He plays a clip from reporter Jake Holes alleging that up to 90% of certain housing programs were lost to fraud. Giving Hearts Day 2026: Live from the Dakota Medical Foundation, the show tracks a massive day of philanthropy. By mid-morning, donations surged past $18 million for 650 charitable causes, with Pat Traynor and Gina Pinovich discussing the "friend-raising" power of the event. The Hidden Cost of Farming: Ag Director Bridget Riedel reveals the "incredible" numbers behind ag labor, noting that per-acre costs in some sectors have skyrocketed from $109 to $1,600 over the last 20 years. The H-2A Debate: Local producer Grant calls in to provide a firsthand look at the H-2A visa program. He clarifies that farmers—not the government—foot the bill for housing, airfare, and vehicles, arguing that these loyal workers have become the backbone of rural communities. Moorhead’s ICE Review: Following a spirited council debate, Moorhead Mayor Shelley Carlson has assembled a committee to review the city’s…

    1h 16m
  7. FEB 19

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 639: Civility in the Storm & NDSU’s New Banking Hub

    Guest host Tim Flakoll steps into the chair for a snowy Thursday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show. As the region braces for a heavy winter storm, Tim navigates a "drinking from a fire hose" news cycle featuring the leaders shaping North Dakota’s future. From the state’s educational roadmap with Superintendent Levi Bachmeier to the launch of a major new banking center at NDSU, this episode covers the essential developments in policy, commerce, and community. Plus, a deep dive into the need for civility in our current political climate and a look at why 90% of a major Minnesota housing program was reportedly consumed by fraud. Key Moments The Calm Before the Snow: Tim and meteorologist Dean Wysocki break down the impending winter storm, forecasting 2-4 inches for the Fargo area and up to a foot in parts of northern North Dakota. Tim warns listeners to "drive with vision" on the slushy and slippery roads. Superintendent Levi Bachmeier’s Vision: In his first 87 days on the job, North Dakota’s new Superintendent of Public Instruction Levi Bachmeier joins the show from a high school parking lot in Beach. He discusses his 165-district tour, the challenges of teacher recruitment, and why investing in K-12 is the state's most vital long-term priority. A New Era for NDSU Business: Dean Katherine Birkeland of the NDSU College of Business unveils the "Center for Banking and Finance." This new hub, backed by major partners like Bell Bank and Gate City Bank, aims to prepare the next generation for the evolving world of fintech and risk modeling. The "One Job" Crisis: Tim discusses a jaw-dropping report regarding Minnesota’s "housing stabilization" program, where a former U.S. Attorney alleges that at least 90% of the $100 million initiative was lost to fraud. The Civility Debate: Representative Austin Schauer joins the studio to preview a community forum on local governance and civil communication. He reflects on his time in the legislature and argues that while political battles are inevitable, respect for the office and personal integrity must remain the standard. Watchdogs for the State: Public Service Commissioner Jill Kringstad explains the PSC’s role as the "watchdog" for citizens, overseeing everything from rail safety and gas pipeline inspections to the reclamation of North Dakota’s active coal mines. Rural Health Care Infusion: Representative Schauer details the high-stakes push to spend $200 million in federal funding on rural health care by October 1st,…

    1h 17m
  8. FEB 18

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 638: "You Had One Job"

    Steve Hallstrom dives into a packed Wednesday edition as the Minnesota legislative session kicks off in St. Paul. With explosive reports alleging that fraud in some state programs has reached a staggering 90%, Steve asks if the government can finally do its "one job" and protect taxpayer dollars. The show also features a deep dive into the state of local journalism with Cecille Wehrman of the North Dakota Newspaper Association, an update on the "heinous" murder investigation in West Fargo, and a look at why 15 years have passed since Fargo last saw a foot of snow. Plus, new Gallup data reveals a surprising shift in how Americans are identifying their gender and sexuality. Key Moments The 90% Fraud Bombshell: Steve plays a jaw-dropping clip from news reporter Jake Holes, who cites a former U.S. Attorney’s claim that roughly 90% of a $100 million housing stabilization program in Minnesota was consumed by fraud. Steve compares the scale of Minnesota’s estimated $20 billion fraud crisis to the federal budget, calling it a "totalizing" threat to the state’s solvency. The Struggle for Local News: Cecille Wehrman joins the program to discuss a year-long study on "news deserts" in North Dakota. She reveals that while newspapers are under extreme stress from rising postage and digital disruption, 80% of residents in counties without a paper are desperate for a local news source to keep them connected to their government. Isadora Wengel Update: Steve provides somber details on the arrest of Joshua Height. Fargo Police are now characterizing the case as a "heinous and devious" murder involving potential dismemberment, and are urging the public to help locate a specific black storage tote with a red lid. The "One Job" Session: As Minnesota lawmakers convene, Steve critiques the DFL leadership for focusing on limiting ICE activity rather than addressing the massive financial "theft" from the state’s citizens. Gallup’s Identity Shift: Steve breaks down new polling showing that while LGBTQ+ identification doubled during the previous administration, it has seen its first-ever decline in the last year. He highlights that 23% of adults aged 18–29 now identify as something other than straight. Voter ID Logic: Steve addresses listener questions about how photo ID prevents illegal voting, emphasizing the need for proof of citizenship at the point of registration to ensure election integrity. Moorhead’s ICE Debate: Following a "spirited" council debate, Moorhead Mayor Shelley Carlson has assembled a committee…

    1h 16m

About

Join Steve Hallstrom as he tackles the issues that matter most to you. With razor-sharp wit and unwavering conviction, Steve cuts through the noise and provides you with honest, unfiltered commentary that speaks directly to the issues that affect our community. With interactive segments and lively call-ins, listeners will be front and center in the conversation. Steve keeps you informed, empowered, and inspired. Tune in weekdays to catch the wave of conservative thought and be part of a community that celebrates the timeless principles that make our country great.