The Neal Larson Show

Neal Larson
  • 3.0 (2)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED DAILY

Neal Larson is an Associated Press Award-winning newspaper columnist and radio talk show host. He has a BA from Idaho State University in Media Studies and Political Science. Neal is happily married to his wife Esther with their five children in Idaho Falls. Julie Mason is a long-time resident of east Idaho with a degree in journalism from Ricks College. Julie enjoys reading, baking, and is an avid dog lover.  When not on the air she enjoys spending time with her three children and husband of 26 years. Together these two are a powerhouse of knowledge with great banter that comes together in an entertaining and informative show.

  1. 2.4.2026 - INTERVIEW: ID House Speaker Mike Moyle - Idaho-Utah Feud, Halftime Show, Voter ID

    22H AGO

    2.4.2026 - INTERVIEW: ID House Speaker Mike Moyle - Idaho-Utah Feud, Halftime Show, Voter ID

    Send us a text Neal Larson and Julie Mason navigate a packed agenda, starting with the heated dispute between Idaho and Utah. Utah's proposed tax on exported fuel has ignited fury from Idaho Speaker Mike Moyle, who is prepared to counter with measures like claiming more Bear River water, highlighting what the hosts see as Utah's arrogance. They anticipate Utah will likely retreat, but stress Idaho should still secure its water entitlements. Shifting gears, the hosts delve into national stories, including the baffling disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, mother of Savannah Guthrie, discussing ransom notes and ongoing investigations. This leads to a broader critique of the recent drawdown of ICE agents in Minneapolis and local "copycat protests" in Idaho, where Neal and Julie question the genuine passion of demonstrators, suggesting they often follow media cues rather than consistent conviction. The conversation continues with Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott's controversial $163,000 SUV purchase, which he defensively dismissed as a "racist question"—a response the hosts find suspicious and indicative of potential impropriety. They then express strong opinions on the Super Bowl halftime show, criticizing its "woke" direction and Jay-Z's influence, while promoting an alternative "All American Halftime Show." The segment concludes with pointed disappointment directed at Senator Thune for his apparent hesitation to pass the "Save Act" for federal voter ID laws, which Neal and Julie assert is a non-negotiable step for election security, noting the partisan divide on such legislation. (And listeners are also encouraged to participate in a Valentine's Day photo contest for a romantic getaway!) ### Highlight List *   **Idaho-Utah Fuel Tax Dispute:** Idaho Speaker Mike Moyle is actively pushing back against Utah's proposed fuel tax on exported gas, exploring retaliatory actions like leveraging Bear River water rights and I-15 tolls. *   **Nancy Guthrie Disappearance:** A puzzling national story unfolds with the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie's mother, featuring a mysterious ransom note and law enforcement focusing investigations on those known to the victim. *   **ICE Drawdown & "Copycat Protests":** The hosts express skepticism about the genuine passion behind local "copycat" protests, linking their rise to media narratives rather than consistent issues, alongside news of reduced ICE presence in Minneapolis due to increased local cooperation. *   **Baltimore Mayor's SUV Controversy:** Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott's expensive SUV purchase is questioned, with his defense—labeling the journalist's query as "racist"—raising red flags for potential fraud. *   **Super Bowl Halftime Show:** Strong disapproval is voiced regarding the "woke" and hypersexualized nature of recent Super Bowl halftime performances, with a clear endorsement for Turning Point USA's patriotic alternative. *   **"Save Act" for Voter ID:** Disappointment is shared over Senator Thune's perceived reluctance to prioritize the "Save Act" for federal voter ID laws, which the hosts view as absolutely crucial for election integrity. Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 23m
  2. 2.3.2026 - HB 93, Epstein, Officer Masks

    23H AGO

    2.3.2026 - HB 93, Epstein, Officer Masks

    Send us a text Neal Larson and Julie Mason covered a wide array of compelling topics, starting with a critical look at the inconsistencies in certain lawmakers' stances on House Bill 93 versus the Launch program. They highlighted how opposition to HB 93 often contradicts support for other programs that also direct public funds to private education, attributing this to union pressures and political motivations. The discussion then shifted to the recently released Jeffrey Epstein documents, clarifying BYU-Idaho's incidental mention as merely having processed a tuition payment for a student in 2011, long before Epstein's crimes were widely known. The hosts emphasized that the university itself was not implicated in any wrongdoing, while also advocating for the welfare of any potential victims. The conversation expanded to broader political and social commentary, including criticism of Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson for applauding a politically charged statement at the Grammys, underscoring the importance of judicial impartiality. They also lauded the economic benefits of Republican-led tax cuts, contrasting this with Democrat-run cities that are reportedly obstructing these benefits for their residents due to partisan disagreements. Furthermore, Neal and Julie scrutinized a proposed Idaho bill that seeks to restrict law enforcement from wearing facial coverings, dismissing it as a politically motivated, "virtue-only" law that could jeopardize officer safety and identity, especially given the prevalence of misinformation regarding police actions. The episode also featured lively exchanges with listeners on various topics, including a humorous and extended debate about public restroom hygiene and the precise terminology for police interactions. ### Highlight List: *   **Inconsistent Education Funding Stances:** Critique of lawmakers opposing House Bill 93 while supporting the similar Launch program, highlighting political and union influences. *   **BYU-Idaho's Epstein Link Clarified:** Discussed the university's minor, non-complicit role in a 2011 tuition payment mentioned in the Jeffrey Epstein documents, advocating for victim support. *   **Judicial Impartiality Questioned:** Criticism of Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson for politically charged applause at the Grammys. *   **Tax Cut Obstruction by Blue States:** Examination of Democrat-run cities preventing residents from benefiting from federal tax cuts due to political motivations. *   **Debate on Law Enforcement Facial Coverings:** Opposition to a proposed Idaho bill restricting police masks, citing officer safety concerns and the bill's perceived political nature. *   **Hand Hygiene & Police Terminology:** Humorous yet firm discussions with listeners regarding public restroom etiquette and the exact meaning of "picked up" versus "pulled over" in police encounters. Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 25m
  3. 2.2.2026 - Information Overload, Political Fraud, & Media Spin

    2D AGO

    2.2.2026 - Information Overload, Political Fraud, & Media Spin

    Send us a text On Monday, February 2nd, 2026, Neal Larson reflects on the overwhelming nature of modern information and the diminishing sense of awe for monumental human achievements, using the delayed Artemis mission as a prime example. He expresses disappointment that ventures like sending humans to the far side of the moon now feel like "just another news story," suggesting society has lost its capacity for shared, momentous experiences due to constant digital inundation. This leads into a broader discussion with Julie Mason about the blurring lines between journalism and activism, particularly regarding Don Lemon's controversial actions in a church, contrasting protected protest with illegal behavior on private property. The conversation further delves into political discourse, challenging the manufactured threat of Christian nationalism as an exaggerated narrative used for artificial relevance by the left, lacking substantial data to support its widespread danger compared to other societal issues. The hosts also cover a breaking story about Savannah Guthrie's elderly mother, Nancy Guthrie, reported missing in Tucson, Arizona, which police have designated a crime scene, prompting a critical look at law enforcement communication. Later segments touch on congressional corruption, with examples like Ilhan Omar and Ayanna Pressley's rapidly increasing net worths, California's exorbitant healthcare fraud, and feature humorous, yet sharp, political commentary from John Kennedy on topics like illegal immigration and protests. ## Highlight List *   **Information Overload & Lost Wonder:** Neal Larson discusses the overwhelming volume of modern information and social media, lamenting the public's desensitization to significant events like the Artemis moon mission. *   **Journalism vs. Activism:** The hosts scrutinize Don Lemon's actions in a church, debating the legal and ethical boundaries of journalism, protest, and private property rights. *   **"White Christian Nationalism" Debate:** Neal and Julie challenge the narrative of "white Christian nationalism" as a widespread threat, suggesting it's an overblown issue used for political gain, lacking concrete evidence of significant danger. *   **Savannah Guthrie's Mother Missing:** Breaking news update on Nancy Guthrie's disappearance in Tucson, Arizona, which police are investigating as a crime scene, prompting discussion on effective law enforcement communication. *   **Government Corruption & Healthcare Fraud:** Discussions cover congressional wealth accumulation (Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley) and massive healthcare fraud in California's LA County, highlighting a severe lack of oversight. Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 27m
  4. 1.30.2026 - S4C Hal Waldram "All the Small Things", Education, Licenses, & AI Truths

    5D AGO

    1.30.2026 - S4C Hal Waldram "All the Small Things", Education, Licenses, & AI Truths

    Send us a text This episode delves into a range of contentious issues, beginning with a deep dive into Idaho's education budget. Host Neal Larson details the conflict between the Joint Finance Appropriations Committee (JFAC) and Superintendent Debbie Critchfield, who declined to provide requested budget reduction plans for K-12 education, despite growing pressure to balance the state's overall budget. Larson challenges the notion of public education as an "untouchable" sector, advocating for innovation and prioritizing student well-being over institutional protection. Co-host Julie Mason adds that political motivations likely underpin Critchfield's stance and highlights a national trend towards education reform, urging public educators to adapt to inevitable changes. The discussion then moves to a proposed Idaho bill restricting flags flown outside city halls, an initiative addressing Boise Mayor McLean's use of an LGBTQ flag as a city emblem, though hosts question the bill's practicality in solving cultural issues. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the debate over cosmetology licensing, prompted by a legislator's call to scrap it. Julie Mason, drawing on her beauty industry experience, underscores the safety risks involved with chemicals and tools, while a caller argues against all professional licensing, emphasizing reputation and litigation as sufficient controls. The episode also touches on the pervasive issue of AI-generated misinformation and its impact on public trust, citing examples of manipulated images in political discourse and discussing the alleged influence of foreign actors, like Neville Roy Singham, in funding U.S. extremist groups and manipulating protests. The program also features a Studio 4 Cover performance of "All the Small Things" by local artist Hal Waldram. --- **Highlight List** *   **Idaho Education Budget Stalemate:** Superintendent Debbie Critchfield refuses JFAC's request for education budget cuts, sparking debate on the "untouchable" status of K-12 funding and the need for innovation. *   **Controversial Flag Bill:** Idaho legislators propose a bill to limit flags flown at city halls, specifically targeting Boise's LGBTQ flag, raising questions about legislative solutions to cultural issues. *   **Cosmetology Licensing Debate:** A lawmaker's proposal to eliminate cosmetology licensing is met with strong arguments about client safety, industry standards, and the broader implications of professional regulation versus market-driven reputation. *   **AI-Generated Misinformation:** The hosts express concern over the widespread use of AI to create photo-realistic fake images and videos, impacting political discourse and public trust, alongside discussions of foreign influence in manipulating protests. *   **Live Music Performance:** Local musician How Waldrum performs an acoustic cover of Blink-182's "All the Small Things." Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 22m
  5. 1.29.2026 - Border Battles, Idaho Bills, Plate Debates

    6D AGO

    1.29.2026 - Border Battles, Idaho Bills, Plate Debates

    Send us a text This episode delves into a range of national and local issues, beginning with developments in Minneapolis regarding ICE and public safety arrests. The conversation then transitions to current proposals in the Idaho legislative session. These include bills to eliminate voter affidavits without ID, prevent cities from enacting rogue discrimination ordinances (specifically mentioning LGBTQ issues), allow parents to teach their children driver's education, permit midwives to prescribe certain medications, and abolish license plate registration stickers to save costs. Larson emphasizes that these are merely proposals, most unlikely to pass, and highlights the "devil's in the details" for many of them. The latter half of the episode is dominated by a highly engaging and interactive discussion with callers and texters, primarily focused on the proposed elimination of license plate stickers and broader vehicle registration issues. Listeners share anecdotes about being pulled over, debate the necessity of front license plates, question the state's requirement for new plates every seven years, and express strong opinions on the aesthetic and cost differences of various plate designs. Another major segment involves a heated debate about the recent Ilhan Omar "apple cider vinegar" incident, which both hosts and many callers dismiss as performative political theater, drawing parallels to other staged events. The show also touches on seatbelt laws, the legality of children riding in truck beds in Idaho, and "Karen" culture, showcasing a dynamic mix of political commentary and relatable community grievances. ## Highlight List *   Discussion on national immigration policies and the political gridlock over government funding for DHS, linked to crime and border security. *   Review of several Idaho legislative proposals, including changes to voter ID, local discrimination laws, parental driver's education, and license plate stickers. *   Extensive audience engagement on vehicle registration, license plate requirements, and the role of stickers in law enforcement. *   Critical analysis of the Ilhan Omar "apple cider vinegar" incident, with hosts and many listeners concluding it was a staged event for political gain. Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 28m
  6. 1.28.2026 - INTERVIEW: Rep. Mike Simpson, Zak Miller, IFBF on Water, Immigration, other issues. Rubio testimony.

    JAN 28

    1.28.2026 - INTERVIEW: Rep. Mike Simpson, Zak Miller, IFBF on Water, Immigration, other issues. Rubio testimony.

    Send us a text Neal Larson and Julie Mason kick off the episode with sharp critiques of current political discourse, labeling much of it as "performative outrage." They express skepticism about the authenticity of certain high-profile events, including an alleged confrontation involving Ilhan Omar and an ICE shooting incident involving Alex Pretti, advocating for thorough investigations rather than immediate conclusions. The hosts also draw a crucial distinction between "justified" and "reasonable" actions in law enforcement and strongly condemn protests that disrupt public order, criticizing the concept of "mostly peaceful" demonstrations. The program then shifts to an in-depth segment featuring Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who discusses the post-Maduro era in Venezuela, emphasizing US efforts to stabilize the country, counter the influence of adversaries like Iran, Russia, and China, and establish a path towards free elections and economic recovery. Following this, Congressman Mike Simpson and Zach Miller from the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation join the discussion. Simpson addresses the looming government shutdown and staunchly defends ICE's operations against "sanctuary city" policies, while Miller highlights critical agricultural challenges in Idaho, particularly water scarcity and severe labor shortages. Both advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, emphasizing the need for a legal, reliable workforce to sustain the state's vital agricultural industry, beyond the limitations of current H2A visa programs. --- **Highlight List:** *   Critique of "performative" politics, with skepticism regarding incidents involving Ilhan Omar and an ICE shooting. *   In-depth discussion with Secretary Marco Rubio on post-Maduro Venezuela, US strategic goals, and efforts to stabilize the country and counter adversary influence. *   Interview with Congressman Mike Simpson and Zach Miller (Idaho Farm Bureau) on the government shutdown, defense of ICE, and critical Idaho issues: water management and agricultural immigration reform. *   Emphasis on distinguishing "justified" from "reasonable" in law enforcement actions, coupled with a strong condemnation of disruptive protests. *   Discussion of severe agricultural labor shortages in Idaho and the need for H2A visa reform to ensure a legal workforce. Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 17m
  7. 1.27.2026 - Flags, School Choice, & Utah Fuel Tax

    JAN 27

    1.27.2026 - Flags, School Choice, & Utah Fuel Tax

    Send us a text This episode delves into a range of contentious issues, beginning with the ongoing debate in the Idaho Legislature over city flags. The hosts discuss how Boise Mayor McLean's decision to fly the LGBTQ+ flag has spurred new legislation to restrict flags on city property to only the U.S., state, and specific military flags, potentially affecting even banners for community events. They then pivot to commend Governor Brad Little's discreet move to opt Idaho into a new federal education tax credit from President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." This $1,700 credit, which refunds donations to non-profit scholarship organizations, is hailed as a win for school choice and parental freedom, though it faces predictable opposition from groups like Reclaim Idaho, accused by the hosts of prioritizing educational institutions over the actual well-being of children. The conversation intensifies with a heated critique of recent events in Minneapolis, where Neal expresses profound frustration over what he terms "selective grief" and "cosplay activism," contrasting the widespread mourning for figures like Alex Pretti and Renee Goode with silence on Laken Riley's murder. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is sharply condemned for comparing children staying indoors during riots to Anne Frank's experience, with the hosts and callers labeling his remarks as manipulative and farcical. The program concludes with a significant focus on a potential economic challenge: Utah House Speaker Mike Moyle's proposal for a 30-cent per gallon tax on fuel exported to Idaho. This prompts a lively discussion among hosts and callers about various proactive and retaliatory strategies for Idaho, including building its own refinery, developing geothermal energy, implementing toll booths for Utah drivers, and increasing property taxes for Utahns owning land in Idaho, all aimed at protecting Idaho's interests and fostering self-sufficiency. --- Highlights: *   Idaho Legislature debating flag policy due to Boise Mayor McLean's LGBTQ+ flag, potentially impacting community event banners. *   Governor Brad Little quietly opts Idaho into a federal education tax credit ($1,700) supporting school choice, drawing criticism from Reclaim Idaho. *   Hosts lambast "selective grief" in Minneapolis, contrasting mourning for Alex Pretti/Renee Goode with silence on Laken Riley's death, linking it to immigration policies. *   Minnesota Governor Tim Walz heavily criticized for comparing children staying home during riots to Anne Frank's experience. *   Discussion on Utah's proposed 30-cent fuel tax on Idaho, leading to calls for Idaho to build its own refinery, develop geothermal energy, and consider retaliatory measures. Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 25m
  8. 1.26.2026 - INTERVIEWS: Chris Cargill, MSPC and Rep. Dustin Manwaring, the Discombobulator, and the Minnesota Mayhem

    JAN 26

    1.26.2026 - INTERVIEWS: Chris Cargill, MSPC and Rep. Dustin Manwaring, the Discombobulator, and the Minnesota Mayhem

    Send us a text This podcast episode delves into several pressing topics, beginning with an in-depth analysis of the oral arguments before the Idaho Supreme Court regarding House Bill 93, the education choice tax credit. Neal and guest Chris Cargill from the Mountain States Policy Center agree that the plaintiffs' case was "weak sauce," particularly on the issue of standing, with Supreme Court justices expressing significant skepticism. They discuss the implications of the court potentially throwing out the lawsuit on standing alone versus issuing a decision on its merits, especially given the program's rapid popularity. The conversation then shifts to the Alex Pretti shooting in Minneapolis, where Neal shares his struggle with the justification of the shooting based on available video, questioning if the agent's life was in "imminent danger," while also criticizing pre-judgment and "candlelight vigils." The second hour features State Representative Dustin Manwaring, who discusses his proposed bill aimed at protecting state employees who communicate with legislators from retaliation by the executive branch. This comes in response to Governor Little's memo requiring all executive branch communications with lawmakers to go through his office, a policy Manwaring views as creating unnecessary friction and indicating a lack of trust. Manwaring also touches on efforts to increase medical education opportunities in Idaho to address the state's doctor shortage. The episode concludes with a lighter, speculative segment on a rumored U.S. military "discombobulator" sonic weapon and a listener discussion on chemtrails, exploring theories about their purpose and perceived government secrecy. --- ### Highlight List *   Idaho Supreme Court oral arguments on House Bill 93 (education choice tax credit) heavily scrutinized plaintiffs' standing and constitutional arguments. *   Host Neil Larson expresses reservations about the justified use of lethal force in the Alex Pretti shooting in Minneapolis. *   Rep. Dustin Mannwaring introduces legislation to protect state employees' communication with legislators, countering Governor Little's restrictive memo. *   Discussion on US military's rumored "discombobulator" sonic weapon and listener theories regarding chemtrails and their potential impact. Let’s talk advertising. When you want to advertise on the radio, you call the station, right? But what about Facebook, Instagram, Hulu, Disney+, Peacock, and other streaming platforms? You could try clicking around, reading books, or taking online courses to figure it out—or you can let us handle it. At Sandhill Media Group, we’re your local experts in both radio and digital marketing. Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today. a href="https://www.sandhillmediagrou

    1h 32m
See All (372)

Ratings & Reviews

3
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Neal Larson is an Associated Press Award-winning newspaper columnist and radio talk show host. He has a BA from Idaho State University in Media Studies and Political Science. Neal is happily married to his wife Esther with their five children in Idaho Falls. Julie Mason is a long-time resident of east Idaho with a degree in journalism from Ricks College. Julie enjoys reading, baking, and is an avid dog lover.  When not on the air she enjoys spending time with her three children and husband of 26 years. Together these two are a powerhouse of knowledge with great banter that comes together in an entertaining and informative show.

Information

  • Creator
    Neal Larson
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    372
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Neal Larson Show
  • Show Website
    The Neal Larson Show

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