The Neal Larson Show

Neal Larson

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. 12.19.2025 - INTERVIEW: Rep. Wendy Horman on new role at HHS, leaving the legislature. STUDIO4 COVERS: Jason Lentz

    4D AGO

    12.19.2025 - INTERVIEW: Rep. Wendy Horman on new role at HHS, leaving the legislature. STUDIO4 COVERS: Jason Lentz

    Send us a text In this episode, Neal Larson and Julie Mason break major local news as State Representative Wendy Horman joins the show to announce her resignation from the Idaho Legislature. Horman reveals she has accepted a position in Washington, D.C., serving as the Director of the Office of Child Care within the Department of Health and Human Services. The hosts discuss the immediate political implications for East Idaho, specifically focusing on the process of appointing her replacement and the potential impact on House Bill 93 and parental rights in education. The show also features a moving "Studio 4 Covers" segment with local musician Jason Lentz, who shares his personal journey from atheism to faith before performing an acoustic cover of Larry Fleet’s "Where I Find God." Additionally, Neal and Julie tackle current political headlines, including the Pocatello City Council’s unanimous vote to eliminate runoff elections and the latest cultural reactions to President Trump, which Neal categorizes as "Trump Derangement Syndrome." **Exclusive Announcement:** Representative Wendy Horman announces she is stepping down to join the Trump administration at the HHS. **Studio 4 Covers:** Musician Jason Lentz shares his testimony of finding faith and performs live in the studio. **Local Politics:** A discussion on the controversial decision by the Pocatello City Council to get rid of runoff elections. **The Replacement Process:** Neal and Julie debate the importance of appointing a replacement for Horman who aligns with the voters' intent regarding school choice. 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. 12.17.2025 - Trump's Perspective, Blockading Venezuela, Institutional Failures

    6D AGO

    12.17.2025 - Trump's Perspective, Blockading Venezuela, Institutional Failures

    Send us a text On this episode, Neal Larson and Julie Mason delve into the heated reactions surrounding Donald Trump's social media post following the death of his vocal critic, Rob Reiner. While acknowledging Trump's words were inappropriate, Neal argues the public and media outrage is a distraction from more critical issues, such as the alleged weaponization of the FBI in the Mar-a-Lago raid. The hosts contend that focusing on Trump's abrasive rhetoric overlooks the tangible benefits of his "America First" policies, including a strong foreign policy stance exemplified by a new blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers. The conversation also tackles local and national accountability issues. Neal and Julie express deep concern over a report that the Boise School District may have interfered with police investigations into sexual abuse to protect itself from liability. They shift to the recent shooting at Brown University, criticizing the university's mishandling of information and confusing communication regarding emergency protocols. They suggest that the official response seems hampered by political correctness, avoiding a direct conversation about the shooter's potential motives. **Putting Trump in Perspective:** Neal argues that outrage over Trump's social media posts distracts from more significant threats, such as the weaponization of government agencies. **School District Accountability:** The hosts discuss a disturbing report alleging the Boise School District obstructed police investigations into sexual abuse to avoid liability. **Critiquing the Brown University Response:** Neal and Julie critique the confusing and delayed communication from Brown University officials following the recent campus shooting. 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 19m
  3. 12.16.2025 - Giving Machines Arrive, Trump on Reiner, Obamacare Fraud, Fentanyl as WMD

    DEC 16

    12.16.2025 - Giving Machines Arrive, Trump on Reiner, Obamacare Fraud, Fentanyl as WMD

    Send us a text Neal Larson and Julie Mason navigate a mix of holiday spirit and heavy political headlines in this episode. They begin by sharing heartwarming stories from the "Giving Machines" charity event at Grand Teton Mall before pivoting to a heated discussion regarding Donald Trump’s controversial social media response to the death of Rob Reiner. The hosts debate the propriety of the comments versus the context of the political attacks Trump has faced, while also touching on the frustrating lack of information surrounding the recent shooting at Brown University. The conversation deepens into policy as they analyze Speaker Mike Johnson’s press conference exposing rampant fraud within the Obamacare subsidy system. Neal and Julie discuss the expiration of COVID-era healthcare funding and the political maneuvering required to address it. Later, they tackle national security, reviewing a briefing by Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth regarding military strikes on drug boats and Trump's move to classify fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction. Episode Highlights *   **Trump vs. Rob Reiner:** A debate on whether the former President's post-mortem comments were justified or ill-timed. *   **Healthcare Fraud:** Speaker Mike Johnson details millions in waste and the battle over expiring Obamacare subsidies. *   **War on Drugs:** Discussion on classifying fentanyl as a WMD and authorizing military strikes on drug trafficking boats. *   **Holiday Cheer:** Recap of the local Giving Machines launch and Neal’s accidental viewing of a Lifetime Christmas movie. *   **Dutch vs. Danish:** The hosts end the show with a humorous attempt to decipher the difference between the Netherlands, Denmark, and wooden shoes. 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 26m
  4. 12.15.25 - Tragedy in Australia, Giving Machines Coming, Far-Left Terrorism Foiled, and Christmas Spirit

    DEC 15

    12.15.25 - Tragedy in Australia, Giving Machines Coming, Far-Left Terrorism Foiled, and Christmas Spirit

    Send us a text In today’s episode, hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason delve into a series of tragic and disturbing events that occurred over the weekend, including a mass shooting in Australia and a domestic terror plot thwarted in Los Angeles. They navigate the complexities surrounding the political and social implications of these incidents, highlighting tensions related to anti-Semitism and political extremism. The hosts also examine the contentious reactions and rhetoric following these events, particularly focusing on public figures' divisive comments, including a controversial social media post from Donald Trump about the recent murders in Hollywood. Additionally, the episode takes a reflective turn as Neal and Julie discuss the significance of symbols during the Christmas season and the importance of genuine expressions of faith and goodwill. They also highlight local initiatives such as the "giving machine" in Idaho Falls, encouraging listeners to engage in charitable acts during the holiday season. **Highlights:** - Discussion on the tragic shooting in Australia and its anti-Semitic angles. - Analysis of the thwarted domestic terror plot in Los Angeles. - Critique of divisive political rhetoric, with a focus on Donald Trump’s recent comments. - Reflection on the meaning of Christmas and the importance of authentic celebrations. - Information about the giving machine in Idaho Falls to encourage community charity. 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 24m
  5. 12.12.2025 - STUDIO 4 COVERS: Idaho Falls Chamber Choir, Holiday Re-gifting Confessions

    DEC 12

    12.12.2025 - STUDIO 4 COVERS: Idaho Falls Chamber Choir, Holiday Re-gifting Confessions

    Send us a text In this dynamic edition of the Neal Larson and Julie Mason podcast, the hosts take listeners through a whirlwind of topics ranging from local Idaho politics to international matters. Neal opens up with a discussion on the idiosyncrasies of ballot initiatives, expressing his view on repealing voter initiatives, which he sees as a mechanism sometimes leveraged for ulterior motives rather than genuine state benefits.  The Idaho Falls High School Chamber Choir provides some Christmas spirit with today's Studio 4 Cover.  Meanwhile, Julie keenly dissects the media's portrayal of national security issues, specifically quarreling over terminologies used for narco-terrorists and the political diversions they create. Throughout the segment, the duo also enjoys lighter moments, with discussions revolving around the quirks of holiday traditions and the art of re-gifting Christmas treats, revealing amusing confessions and cultural insights from their listeners. - Neal's critique on the misuse of voter initiatives in Idaho's politics. - Julie's analysis of media sensationalism surrounding national threats. - Engaging audience confessions on holiday re-gifting practices. - Neal and Julie's witty banter on everyday quirks and cultural anomalies. - Discussion on Idaho Falls High School's recognition for excellence. 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
  6. 12.11.2025 - Civility vs. Firmness, Political Smears, and Healthcare Fraud

    DEC 11

    12.11.2025 - Civility vs. Firmness, Political Smears, and Healthcare Fraud

    Send us a text In this episode, Neal Larson and Julie Mason explore the intricate layers of political dynamics and scandals making headlines. They delve into Governor Spencer Cox's ambivalence towards President Trump, noting Cox's attempts at civility and how it sometimes conflicts with the need for political firmness. The conversation transitions to the challenges and accusations faced by political figures such as Nancy Mace and Eric Swalwell, highlighting political smears and eligibility issues. Larson critiques the continual erosion of civility in politics, arguing for a balance between maintaining decorum and protecting essential rights. Additionally, the duo discusses fraudulent activities in obtaining Obamacare subsidies, questioning the accountability and efficacy of current systems.  Highlights: - Spencer Cox's struggle with maintaining civility while aligning with Trump. - Nancy Mace and Eric Swalwell facing political scandals and accusations. - Fraudulent Obamacare subsidies expose major loopholes in the system. 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 24m
  7. 12.10.2025 - GOP Campaign Troubles, $1.69 Gas, and Ignored Joe Rogan

    DEC 10

    12.10.2025 - GOP Campaign Troubles, $1.69 Gas, and Ignored Joe Rogan

    Send us a text Neal Larson and Julie Mason explore a variety of pressing political topics, centering largely around the role former President Trump plays in current Republican campaigns and the state of the U.S. economy under his influence. They discuss comments from Fox News' Tyrus urging Republican candidates to campaign effectively on their own, rather than relying on Trump's intervention. Neal points out how effective Trump has become at driving America's political narrative, particularly through rallies that bypass mainstream media. In addition to the political discourse, the duo transitions into a light-hearted segment, touching on various cultural and personal stories, including reflections on local issues such as gas prices and social media trends. They contemplate the symbolism and potential future political endeavors of prominent figures, alongside some amusing anecdotes and listener interactions. This episode entertains while providing thoughtful insights into the ongoing political and cultural landscape. Highlights - Discussion on the role of former President Trump in Republican campaigns. - Commentary on the effectiveness of Trump's campaign rallies. - Insights into current U.S. economic developments. - Analysis of local gas prices and implications for the broader economy. - Listener interactions and their feedback on political and social issues. 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

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.

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