The Need to Know Morning Show

The Flag - AM 1100 and FM 92.3
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  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Join Alex Taylor, Kevin Flynn and guests as they break down the news you need to know for the day ahead.

  1. 18H AGO

    Reality TV at the Capitol: Mob Politics, Malls, and Moccasin Creek (2-13-26)

    It’s a high-octane Friday edition of the Need to Know Morning Show. In his final day sitting in for Kevin Flynn, Jay Thomas teams up with Alex Taylor to tackle the "crooked gift that keeps on giving"—Minnesota politics. The duo dives deep into the fallout of the Feeding Our Future fraud, calling for accountability as Attorney General Keith Ellison smirks his way through congressional hearings. The episode isn't just about political theater; it's a quintessential community conversation. Jay shares a personal "caught red-handed" story about his wife and a garage door, argues with Meteorologist Dean Wysocki over whether it's actually going to hit 50 degrees this weekend, and gets a first-look at the massive new upgrades at Hector International Airport. From "V-neck comforters" with Mike Lindell to a list of the worst Valentine's Day gifts (hint: no weight loss pills), this episode is a marathon of local grit and unfiltered commentary. Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:02:40] – The "Mob" in the Committee Room Jay reacts to Keith Ellison’s smirking testimony before Senator Josh Hawley, comparing the Attorney General’s demeanor to 1960s mobsters and demanding to know where the stolen billions actually went. [00:06:50] – The Nancy Guthrie Mystery The team discusses the "bizarre" investigation into the Savannah Guthrie family case, questioning why Pima County authorities are withholding evidence from the FBI and local jurisdiction wars. [00:15:35] – The Garage Door Confession In a hilarious domestic moment, Jay reveals how he caught his wife Maria trying to hide a minor garage door mishap—and why OnTrack Garage Door is now on speed dial. [00:19:12] – Mike Lindell’s "V-Neck" Masterclass MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell calls in to discuss his lead in the gubernatorial polls and gives Jay a masterclass in marketing while explaining why he can’t (yet) make a comforter with a V-neck. [00:23:45] – Homan’s "Operation Metro Surge" Wrap-up A breakdown of Tom Homan’s appearance with Laura Ingraham, where he explains why ICE is shifting tactics in Minneapolis and why the "withdrawal" headlines are fake news. [00:32:55] – Gavin Newsom Gets Upstaged The crew laughs at The Five’s analysis of Gavin Newsom’s wife, Jennifer, "emasculating" him by grabbing the microphone and scolding the press during a Planned Parenthood event. [00:38:58] – New Skies at Hector International Airport Director Sean Doberstein joins the studio to unveil the new nine-gate expansion, the virtual reality "immersive room" for anxious flyers, and the highly anticipated "Salty…

    1h 55m

  2. 18H AGO

    The Golden Ticket Marathon: Live from Giving Hearts Day 2026 (2-12-26)

    Live from the Dakota Medical Foundation in Fargo, guest host Jay Thomas takes the reins for a high-energy, four-hour broadcast celebrating Giving Hearts Day 2026. With the live tote board climbing toward record-breaking heights, Jay and co-host Alex Taylor sit down with the leaders of the region's most vital nonprofits. From the life-saving housing provided by the Ronald McDonald House to the "dignity transformations" of Down Home, this episode explores the profound impact of local generosity. The morning is a blend of heartwarming community stories, a deep dive into the 85-year legacy of the Ann Carlson Center, and, of course, a few updates on the "Colorado Crusher" storm heading toward the valley. Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:02:16] – A Home Away From Home Jill Christopher of the Ronald McDonald House explains how their 24 guest rooms provide free housing for over 1,000 families annually, allowing parents to focus entirely on their sick children. +1 [00:08:02] – Extraordinary Friend Raising Pat Traynor, the visionary behind Giving Hearts Day, reflects on growing the event from just 40 charities in 2007 to over 650 today, raising over $15 million before 7:00 AM. +2 [00:12:58] – Dignity in the Living Room Janessa Philippi of Down Home shares the "miracle moments" of furnishing apartments for those emerging from homelessness, maintaining a 95% stabilization rate for the families they serve. +1 [00:17:15] – The Truth About "Safety Leave" The show tackles a controversial uptick in Minnesota safety leave claims, with Jay and listeners debating the mental health impacts of recent ICE activity in the region. +1 [00:20:51] – Adopt-a-Senior: Meals on Wheels Cassandra Emanuel reveals that Valley Senior Services provides 360,000 meals a year, relying on a fleet of volunteers to perform daily wellness checks on the 25% of North Dakotans over age 60. +2 [00:27:11] – The 30-Inch Prediction Meteorologist Dean Wysocki sparks a debate about a looming weather system, warning of 6 to 12 inches of "Widowmaker" heavy snow expected before the month ends. +2 [00:32:05] – Business Skills and Thin Mints Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons explains how the iconic cookie drive is actually a K-12 entrepreneurship program, funding international trips to Australia and local scholarships. +2 [00:43:05] – The No-Poke Zone Catherine Kingsley discusses the Cullen Children’s Foundation, which has donated $8 million to the community, including the creation of "Cully’s Cottage"—a play haven for kids receiving cancer treatments. +2 [00:53:03] – Breaking…

    2 hr

  3. 4D AGO

    Shankapotami, Stolen Land, and the El Paso Lockdown (2-11-26)

    In this high-energy mid-week edition, Jay Thomas (filling in for a vacationing Kevin Flynn) and Alex Taylor navigate a bizarre news cycle that spans from local tragedies to international mysteries. The show kicks off with a "Shankapotamus" golf injury and a rant about Fargo's worst drivers, but the levity quickly shifts to the chilling developments in the Nancy Guthrie case, including a temporary 10-day shutdown of the El Paso International Airport that has experts scratching their heads. The team also tackles the controversial "stolen land" protests at Davies High School, the crackdown on non-English driving exams in Florida, and the blatant fraud investigations rocking the Minnesota state government. Plus, agricultural expert Bridget Riedel goes "underground" to discuss tele-mining and gene-edited crops, while meteorologist Dean Wysocki warns of a massive "active" weather cycle looming for the end of February. Episode Highlights [00:01:30] The "Shankapotamus" Incident Jay details his golf simulator injury and why he’s officially "done" with winter chipping—leading into a fiery rant about bright lights and saucer-sized windshield clearing on Fargo’s roads. [00:10:00] The El Paso Mystery & The Masked Man A deep dive into the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. The team discusses the sudden 10-day airspace shutdown in El Paso—later revealed to involve cartel drones—and analyzes the "Barney Fife" level of incompetence from the suspect caught on Guthrie's doorbell camera. [00:13:50] The "Stolen Land" Debate at Davies High Jay and Alex respond to recent student-led ICE protests in South Fargo. They break down the "scary" reality of students getting their news from social media and tackle the "futile" narrative of stolen land. [00:20:45] The Bison FBS Probation Fury Big Game James joins to discuss why NDSU fans are "livid" over the mandatory two-year postseason ban following their jump to the FBS, and why a waiver from the NCAA is highly unlikely. [00:22:15] The Scourge of Doom Scrolling John Roberts and "Cyber Guy" Kurt Knutson discuss a landmark lawsuit against Meta and Google. Are these platforms intentionally designed to addict children like the big tobacco companies of the 90s? [00:27:00] Trump vs. Powell: The $4 Billion Renovation A review of Donald Trump’s sit-down with Larry Kudlow, where the President blasts Fed Chairman Jerome Powell for massive spending overruns on a small building complex. [00:28:30] The $19 Billion Minnesota Fraud Storm The team analyzes the escalating fraud investigations in Minnesota, the 400+ whistleblowers coming forward, and why federal prosecutors seem to be…

    2h 4m

  4. 5D AGO

    Shankapotami, Chemtrails, and the Great Minnesota Fraud (2-10-26)

    In this high-octane Tuesday morning edition, Jay Thomas (sitting in for Kevin Flynn) and Alex Taylor cover a landscape that ranges from personal injuries to massive political scandals. Jay kicks things off with a literal "Shankapotamus" moment from a golf simulator that left him with a sprained shoulder and a newfound hatred for winter ice. But the focus quickly shifts to the high-stakes drama surrounding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, where Dan Bongino and Nancy Grace weigh in on a crime scene that feels increasingly " sterile" and bizarre. The team doesn’t hold back on the "Minnesota Fraud Playbook," diving into reports of widespread embezzlement in state programs and the whistleblowers facing retaliation. Plus, we break down NDSU’s jump to the FBS, Florida’s major crackdown on non-English driving exams, and a heated debate over whether the government is actually "seeding" more than just clouds. Episode Highlights [00:01:30] The "Shankapotamus" Sprain Jay details his disastrous attempt at golfing on a simulator and why a sprained shoulder is ruining his week—leading into a classic rant about Fargo drivers who can’t find their gas pedals or turn off their brights. [00:10:00] The Guthrie Investigation: Three Theories Dan Bongino joins to break down the "Occam’s Razor" possibilities in the Nancy Guthrie case. From a "burglary gone awry" to a possible medical emergency, why has this case not followed the history of a typical kidnapping? [00:20:45] Bison Moving On Up: The FBS Reality Check Big Game James delivers the hard truth about NDSU’s jump to the Mountain West. We talk about the two-year postseason probation, the end of local TV broadcasts, and why fans are "livid" over the transition rules. [00:26:45] The Minnesota "Fraud" Storm Sandra Smith and the Mayor of Crosslake, MN, sound the alarm on "rampant fraud" involving state agencies. We explore claims that whistleblowers are being silenced with "racism" labels to protect corrupt bank accounts. [00:30:30] Florida’s English-Only Driving Rule Governor Ron DeSantis moves to require English-only exams for all drivers, including CDLs. Jay and Alex discuss why being able to read a "One Way" sign is a matter of public safety, not politics. [00:33:00] The Chemtrail Rabbit Hole A listener text triggers a deep dive into weather modification. Are those trails in the sky just nature, or is there a more "sinister" reason for the recent 40-degree heat spikes in North Dakota? [00:36:00] Texting vs. Drunk Driving Jay calls for penalties…

    2h 4m

  5. 6D AGO

    Post-Game Hail Marys, Ransom Notes, and the Return of the Trade School (2-9-26)

    In this high-energy Monday morning breakdown, Jay Thomas and Alex Taylor dive into a Super Bowl Sunday that felt like two different worlds. From the defensive battle on the field in Vegas to the polarizing halftime performances, the team unpacks why millions of viewers are migrating to "alternative" broadcasts. But it’s not all football and fireworks. The show takes a serious turn as they analyze the chilling disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the bizarre $6 million Bitcoin ransom demand, and the investigative red flags that have former FBI and NYPD experts sounding the alarm. Plus, we talk "Maha" with HHS Secretary RFK Jr., discuss NDSU’s massive $17 million leap to the Mountain West, and explore why Gen Z is ditching four-year degrees for six-figure "dirty jobs." Episode Highlights [00:01:45] The Halftime Great Divide The team reviews Turning Point USA’s "Alternative Halftime Show" featuring Brantley Gilbert and Kid Rock, which pulled in over 25 million views from fans seeking a patriotic alternative to the NFL’s main stage. [00:10:00] The $17 Million Cover Charge Big Game James joins the booth to break down North Dakota State University’s move to the Mountain West. Is the massive entry fee and transition to the FBS worth the hike in student tuition and ticket prices? [00:14:30] The Nancy Guthrie Investigation A deep dive into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie. Former NYPD Inspector Paul Morrow joins to discuss the strange "two-deadline" ransom note, the lack of "proof of life," and why authorities are searching septic tanks. [00:33:00] Steak, Sauerkraut, and HHS Robert F. Kennedy Jr. discusses the "Make America Healthy Again" movement, Mike Tyson’s surprising role in health advocacy, and why gut health might be the key to fixing the nation’s mental health crisis. [00:48:45] AI-Proofing Your Career Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs fame reacts to the Davos elite finally acknowledging the importance of skilled trades. Discover why young people are flocking to vocational schools to avoid a lifetime of student debt. [00:52:45] Winter Isn't Finished Yet Meteorologist Dean Wysocki gives the "Three Degree Guarantee" and warns that while this week feels like spring, a "Colorado Crusher" storm system is looming on the horizon for late February.

    2h 1m

  6. FEB 9

    Super Bowls, Secret Scripts, and the Great American RX Ripoff (2-6-26)

    It’s a Friday edition of the Need to Know Morning Show, and the team is gearing up for a massive Super Bowl weekend. Kevin Flynn and Alex Taylor dive into the cultural divide of the big game, from the "demonic" vibes of the official halftime show to the star-studded "All-American" alternative hosted by Turning Point USA. But it’s not all football and finger foods. The team breaks down the launch of TrumpRx, a new initiative aimed at ending what they call the "Great American Ripoff" of prescription drug prices. We also get an inside look at the rampant fraud uncovered in Minnesota’s daycare and hospice systems, plus a special preview of Giving Hearts Day with the leaders of Pulse Evangelism and TNT Kids Fitness. Whether you're here for the political fire, the weather "hooey," or the best Super Bowl snack tips, this episode has you covered. Episode Highlights [00:03:00] The "Russia Russia" Press Room Rockstar The team reacts to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calling out the media over Fulton County voting records and Russian interference claims. Is she the sharpest press secretary in history? [00:12:45] The Minnesota Fraud Playbook David Hoche, investigative partner to Nick Shirley, details his testimony before the House Judiciary Committee. From "leering centers" to empty daycares, we look at how billions in taxpayer dollars were allegedly laundered through shell companies. [00:21:30] Checkpoints in Minneapolis? A look at the illegal roadblocks set up by anti-ICE agitators in South Minneapolis. Trump weighs in on the civilian checkpoints and why law enforcement needs to "arrest these idiots." [00:32:00] TrumpRx: Ending the Whale Tab The launch of TrumpRx.com aims to slash drug prices by 80-90%. We discuss why America—the world's biggest customer—has been paying the highest prices for the drugs we researched and developed. [00:33:45] The Guthrie Kidnapping "Script" The team explores the bizarre tinfoil-hat theories surrounding the kidnapping of Savannah Guthrie’s mother. Is there a Hollywood script already in the works, or is there a deeper connection to Epstein survivors? [00:37:00] Pulse Evangelism: The Gen Z Revival Nick Hall of Pulse Evangelism joins to discuss a massive spiritual shift. Statistically, young men are now outpacing women in religious devotion. Hear about the upcoming "Pack the Shack" event at NDSU. [00:41:45] Super Bowl Grilling & Padded Snowplows Meteorologist Dean Wysocki gives the weekend forecast. With temps hitting the mid-30s on Sunday, it’s Traeger season! Plus, a hilarious solution…

    1h 33m

  7. FEB 6

    The Border Battle & The Bio-Lab Breach: A Minneapolis Deep Dive (2-5-26)

    As the 2026 Super Bowl approaches, the "Need to Know Morning Show" team tackles a different kind of high-stakes game: the ongoing clash between federal ICE agents and local leadership in Minneapolis. Hosts Kevin Flynn and Alex Taylor break down the latest news on Operation Metro Surge, including a 700-agent drawdown and the "unprecedented" cooperation from local jails—despite public rhetoric from local politicians. The episode also takes a dark turn into national security, investigating the discovery of a secret Chinese bio-lab in Las Vegas—the second of its kind found in recent years. Plus, we check in on "Agronomy on Ice," discuss the mysterious disappearance of Savannah Guthrie’s mother, and look forward to a rare 40-degree February warm-up in the Dakotas. Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:03:00] Operation Metro Surge: A look at real progress in Minnesota as 700 federal officers are redeployed elsewhere, though 2,000 ICE agents remain on the ground to handle high-profile criminal cases. [00:09:45] The Blockade Reality: Discussion of the "masked radicals" cordoning off parts of Minneapolis, checking license plates, and reportedly committing false imprisonment in the middle of public streets. [00:13:30] Tom Homan Drops the Mic: The Border Czar delivers a blistering message to educators and protestors, highlighting the half-million children smuggled during the previous administration and the 145,000 children found by the current team. [00:18:45] The Case of the West River Deputy: Meet Isaac Cadet, the latest hire for the North Dakota Stockman's Association, a licensed officer tasked with investigating livestock crime and "cattle wrestling". [00:27:30] The Vegas Bio-Lab Discovery: A deep dive into the shocking discovery made by a house cleaner in Las Vegas, where over 1,000 suspected biological agents including TB, HIV, and malaria were found in a residential garage. [00:29:15] Students or Spies?: Senator Tom Cotton questions why 600,000 Chinese nationals are in American universities studying quantum computing and AI instead of the Lincoln-Douglas debates. [00:32:15] The Weatherman’s Playbook: In honor of National Weatherperson’s Day, Chief Meteorologist Dean Blaise shares his most "buoyant" college pickup lines. [00:43:00] The Guthrie Ransom Note: Analysis of the safe-return plea from Savannah Guthrie’s family and why law enforcement believes the ransom note may contain accurate, non-public details. [00:48:00] A Local Super Bowl Star: A shout-out to Brian Franzen, a fourth-generation Coal Harbor farmer, who is set to star alongside a Clydesdale and a bald eagle in a Budweiser Super Bowl commercial.

    1h 57m

  8. FEB 5

    Breaking Point: Fargo’s Debt Crisis & Agronomy on Ice (2-4-26)

    In this jam-packed Wednesday edition of the "Need to Know Morning Show," hosts Alex Taylor and Kevin Flynn navigate the shifting winds of North Dakota—from a welcome 40-degree warm-up to the chilling financial reality facing the city of Fargo. The episode features an urgent sit-down with City Commission candidate Tony Gehrig, who sounds the alarm on a staggering $1.5 billion municipal debt and the "broken" system of special assessments. Meanwhile, the team checks in with agronomist Bridget Riedel live from a frozen Devil’s Lake for the unique "Agronomy on Ice" event. Plus, the show dives into the latest headlines, including the "smarter enforcement" drawdown of ICE personnel in Minneapolis, a mysterious disappearance involving a high-profile news family, and a look at the "mass deportations" promised by the current administration. Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:01:15] – The Ruby Red Slipper Test: Kevin recaps a wild elimination party at Kingpins, where Wizard of Oz trivia and a high-stakes wheel spin sent one lucky listener to Vegas for Valentine’s Day. [00:11:15] – Power from the Dirt: Agronomist Bridget Riedel discusses "Bactory"—a new technology from the UK that uses soil microbes to generate electricity in farm fields. [00:12:45] – The SAVE Act Debate: The crew dives into the controversy surrounding voter ID requirements and the logistical hurdles of the SAVE Act for married women. [00:20:00] – The Minneapolis Drawdown: Tom Homan takes the podium to announce a 700-person drawdown of law enforcement personnel in the Twin Cities, citing "unprecedented cooperation" from local jails. [00:21:40] – Transparency & Body Cams: A major policy shift is revealed as the administration moves to prioritize full body-camera deployment for federal agents on the ground. [00:25:00] – Fargo is Broke: Candidate Tony Gehrig delivers a blistering critique of Fargo’s fiscal health, breaking down the $9,500 debt currently owed by every man, woman, and child in the city. [00:27:10] – The Special Assessment Trap: A deep dive into why Fargo is one of the only regions in the country where the city—rather than the developer—acts as the bank for new home infrastructure.

    1h 41m
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Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Join Alex Taylor, Kevin Flynn and guests as they break down the news you need to know for the day ahead.

Information

  • Creator
    The Flag - AM 1100 and FM 92.3
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    217
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Flag Family Media
  • Show Website
    The Need to Know Morning Show

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