What's On Your Mind

The Flag - AM 1100 and FM 92.3
  • 4.2 (5)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED DAILY

What’s On Your Mind is a daily forum to discuss the issues impacting North Dakota, South Dakota, Western Minnesota, and Eastern Montana. Join Scott Hennen and his guests as they take your calls to find out "What's On Your Mind?"

  1. 12H AGO

    Fargo’s Debt, AI Deception, and the "Spencer Pratt" Revolution (5-12-26)

    With host Scott Hennen still away in Norway, guest host Pastor Andrew Slettin joins Kevin Flynn for a fast-paced Tuesday edition of What's On Your Mind. The show tackles the escalating local political scene as Fargo City Commissioner and Mayoral candidate Michelle Turnburg stops by to discuss her plan to fix the city’s $1.3 billion debt and clean up drug paraphernalia in public parks. The conversation shifts from local to global as former radio host Chris Berg dials in from Los Angeles to discuss the "Spencer Pratt for Mayor" phenomenon and a chilling report on why 90% of top AI developers don't believe humans have a soul. Later, Representative Ben Koppelman and former Commissioner Tony Gehrig weigh in on North Dakota’s fractured primary system and the push for a ward-based government in Fargo. Finally, Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak provides an update from D.C. on year-round E15 fuel and the "Trump Accounts" savings program for newborns. Standout Moments & Timestamps 00:03:08 – Needles in the Neighborhood Mayoral candidate Michelle Turnburg addresses the "appalling" rise of drug paraphernalia in Fargo, recounting a story of a grandmother finding an uncapped needle in a private backyard. She vows to end the city’s needle and crack pipe giveaway programs immediately if elected. 00:10:20 – The "Soul-less" AI Engineers Chris Berg breaks down a staggering Squawk Box clip where only 5 out of 50 top AI scientists raised their hands when asked if they believe humans have a soul. Andrew and Chris discuss the dangers of building the future of technology on a foundation without a spiritual or moral compass. 00:13:30 – The Trojan Horse of Information Pastor Andrew and Chris Berg explore the "Spirit of the Antichrist" in modern messaging, warning that agendas are often only revealed once a message has been fully accepted by the culture. 00:16:30 – Senator Ben Sasse’s Life Lessons In a heavy, reflective moment, the team discusses former Senator Ben Sasse’s recent pancreatic cancer diagnosis and his 60 Minutes interview where he reveals his biggest life regret: spending too many nights in hotel rooms rather than having more children and building a "family compound." 00:25:27 – The Identity Crisis of the GOP Representative Ben Koppelman discusses the "fractured" state of North Dakota’s Republican party, where candidates can get on the ballot via signatures without party endorsement, leading to an identity crisis over what it actually means to be a Republican in…

    1h 55m

  2. 3D AGO

    The Bombshells, Blowback, and Humanity of Local News (5-8-26)

    With host Scott Hennen calling in from a suspension bridge over a Norwegian fjord, guest host Michelle Comer takes over the desk for a rare behind-the-scenes look at the Fourth Estate. Joined by local journalism legends Dale Wetzel, April Baumgarten, and Steve Halstrom, this episode flips the script on the people who usually ask the questions. The panel pulls back the curtain on the "messy" reality of reporting, from breaking the Ray Holmberg case through open records requests to receiving death threats over COVID-19 blog posts. The conversation explores the heavy emotional toll of covering teen suicides, the "human side" of guarding an interviewee's reputation, and how "citizen journalism" is changing the definition of news. Plus, Michelle inches closer to her dream of driving a Zamboni, and the crew discusses why 100% honesty is the secret to a successful relationship. 🎧 Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:01:25] – The Zamboni Dream Michelle Comer reveals her ultimate life goal: not just riding on, but actually driving a Zamboni. Co-host Kevin Flynn provides a progress report on making that dream a reality with the Fargo Force.   [00:03:17] – Life as a "Geezer" Reporter Recently retired veteran political reporter Dale Wetzel jokes about his "veteran" status and explains why asking questions for 40 years means he has forfeited the right to ever refuse an answer himself.   [00:06:17] – Breaking the Holmberg Case Investigative reporter April Baumgarten details the "string-pulling" that led to the Ray Holmberg scandal, starting with a 48-hour window of 72 suspicious text messages discovered via an open records request to a local jail.   [00:10:05] – The Blowback of Truth Dale Wetzel reminisces about the case of North Dakota's first blind legislator and the intense community backlash he faced for reporting on the man's serial sexual harassment.   [00:13:02] – Two Million Views & Death Threats Steve Halstrom reflects on a COVID-19 blog post that went viral with two million views, bringing both national attention and terrifying death threats to his doorstep.   [00:18:16] – The Legislative Loophole A sobering look at transparency: The panel discusses how the North Dakota legislature has specifically exempted itself from open records laws, making it nearly impossible for journalists to access lawmakers' emails.   [00:22:15] – Live from Stahlheim Host Scott Hennen checks in live from a hotel in Norway to discuss the "divine" beauty of the fjords and the "little health retreat"…

    1h 55m

  3. 3D AGO

    The "M-Word," Money, and Midlife (5-7-26)

    With host Scott Hennen away exploring the fjords of Norway, guest host Michelle Comer takes over the studio for a powerhouse "Ladies’ Day" special. Joined by an expert panel featuring a physician’s assistant, a financial whiz, a fitness director, and a dietitian, the conversation dives deep into the topics often left in the shadows: menopause, hormonal health, midlife relationships, and the financial reality of aging. From debunking breast cancer myths related to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to the "bowl of spaghetti" that is the female brain, this episode is an authentic, funny, and informative guide to navigating life after 50. Whether you’re a "crockpot" or a "microwave," looking to max out your HSA or just trying to find a community that keeps you active, Michelle and her friends provide the "receipts" for living your best life in every chapter. 🎧 Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:01:48] – Saying the "M-Word" Michelle dares to say the word Greg Steeman blushed at yesterday: Menopause. The panel kicks off by addressing why society avoids talking about aging and why it's time to bring these topics into the light.   [00:05:48] – The Financial Reality of Retirement Early retiree Tammy Halvorson answers a tough caller question about how to afford health insurance before age 65, emphasizing the importance of long-term planning and HSAs.   [00:07:55] – Not Just "Normal": Hormonal Health Physician Assistant Amanda Kittleson explains that fatigue, irritability, and brain fog in your 30s and 40s aren't just "part of getting old"—they are often treatable hormonal shifts involving testosterone and progesterone.   [00:09:23] – The HRT Study Debunked Amanda addresses the fear surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy, explaining how old studies were flawed and highlighting the safety and cognitive benefits of bio-identical hormones.   [00:13:58] – Inflammation: The Root of All Evil? The panel discusses the shift from "fat-free" trends to the modern understanding that sugar and processed foods drive the inflammation behind most chronic diseases.   [00:18:22] – Spaghetti vs. Waffles: How We Think Michelle and Kevin Flynn discuss the classic "Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus" dynamic, comparing the male brain to a waffle (compartmentalized) and the female brain to a bowl of spaghetti (everything is connected).   [00:25:05] – Let’s Talk About Sex In a refreshingly candid segment, the ladies discuss low libido, the life-changing benefits of vaginal estrogen, and why a healthy sex life starts with "chore-play" in the…

    1h 57m

  4. 6D AGO

    Higher Ed, Hard Truths, and the "R2-D2 of Death" (5-6-26)

    With host Scott Hennen still "frolicking" through Norway, North Dakota District 27 Representative Greg Steeman wraps up his three-day guest hosting stint with a heavy-hitting finale. This episode serves as a masterclass in state governance, featuring a rare "trifecta" of North Dakota leadership: Governor Kelly Armstrong, Higher Education Commissioner Brent Sanford, and State Treasurer Thomas Beadle. The conversation moves from the "unhinged" state of modern political discourse to the nuts and bolts of North Dakota’s financial future. Governor Armstrong calls in from the site of the new Teddy Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora to discuss responsible budgeting and the state's "sovereign wealth." Meanwhile, we dive into the future of the workforce with Brent Sanford, explore the transparency of the State Treasurer’s office with Thomas Beadle, and get a reality check on the global economy and precious metals from landmark expert David Fisher. It’s a mix of pragmatic policy, Bob Seger birthday tributes, and the truth about why North Dakota is preparing for the "retirement" of its oil boom. 🎧 Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:03:20] – The "Concentration Camp" Question The crew reacts to a viral town hall clip featuring Pete Buttigieg. Greg and Kevin break down the "disheartening" rhetoric used to gin up fear, emphasizing that "no one cares how you live your life" as long as kids are left out of it. [00:05:48] – The Presidential Physical Fitness Revival A surprising legislative win: Greg explains how North Dakota officially reinstated the Presidential Physical Fitness Test as part of a rural healthcare transformation initiative. [00:09:15] – Higher Ed’s "External" Pivot Commissioner Brent Sanford discusses the changing of the guard at NDSU and why the state’s 11 institutions are shifting focus toward apprenticeships, internships, and filling the trades. [00:14:15] – The Natural Gas "Pipe Dream" vs. Reality Representative Glenn Bosch clears up the confusion surrounding the $500 million pipeline appropriation, explaining why the state had to step in as a "customer" to ensure the Bakken's natural gas isn't trapped or flared. [00:18:45] – Live from Medora: The TR Library Governor Kelly Armstrong joins the show from a cafe inside the nearly finished Teddy Roosevelt Presidential Library. He explains why this "one-of-one" facility will turn Western North Dakota into a four-season global destination. [00:19:42] – Armstrong’s Budget Challenge The Governor lays out his "Responsible Budgeting" plan: a 3% to 10% cut for agencies to ensure the state doesn't use one-time oil windfalls…

    1h 55m

  5. MAY 6

    Pipelines, Property Taxes, and the Legacy Fund (5-5-26)

    With host Scott Hennen still away in Norway, guest host Greg Steeman (North Dakota District 27 Rep) leads a deep-dive into the state’s "checkbook" and the strategic decisions shaping North Dakota’s economic landscape. This episode features a heavy-hitting lineup, including Senate Majority Leader David Hogue, Ag Commissioner Doug Goehring, and local GOP Chairman Carter Eisinger. The conversation covers everything from the "historic" property tax relief passed in the last session to the $500 million investment in a natural gas pipeline intended to link western production with eastern demand. We also tackle the "single subject" measure on the upcoming ballot, the resilience of North Dakota's livestock industry, and a listeners’ debate on state debt versus the multi-billion dollar Legacy Fund. It’s an episode focused on transparency, infrastructure, and why "monetizing the gas" is the key to the state's next decade of growth. 🎧 Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:02:08] – Historic Property Tax Relief Senate Majority Leader David Hogue breaks down the $1,600 tax credit for primary residents and the controversial 3% cap on local government revenue growth. [00:05:22] – The "Bait and Switch" Ballot Rule A look at the upcoming June Primary measure that would require future constitutional amendments to be limited to a single subject to prevent unpopular ideas from "hiding" behind popular ones. [00:07:35] – The Debt Debate A listener from Williston asks why the state doesn't just use the Legacy Fund to pay off its $1.8 billion in debt. Senator Hogue explains the difference between obligated debt (like the Fargo Diversion) and "living within our means." [00:09:55] – Principle vs. Earnings Steeman and Hogue clarify a major misconception: the state isn't "hoarding" the $14 billion Legacy Fund; it is actively using the earnings to fund property tax relief while protecting the principle for when oil eventually "tanks." [00:13:57] – Accessibility in ND Politics Carter Eisinger discusses "Politics and a Plate" and highlights why North Dakota has the most accessible politicians in the country—where you can still get a State Senator’s cell phone number. [00:21:20] – The Homelessness Math Kevin Flynn does the "leftist math" on California’s $29 billion homelessness spending, calculating that it equates to roughly $145,000 per person—yet very little of it reaches the actual unhoused population. [00:28:15] – Morale in the Oil Patch & Ag Field Ag Commissioner Doug Goehring joins to discuss the "historic" high expenses facing farmers. While commodity prices are decent, manufacturing and…

    1h 55m

  6. MAY 4

    Meet the New Guardians of North Dakota (5-4-26)

    With host Scott Hannon "frolicking" through the fjords of Norway, guest host Greg Steeman takes the reins for a power-packed session of What’s On Your Mind. This episode pulls back the curtain on the often-overlooked "third branch" of government and the high-stakes world of state utility regulation. We sit down with the North Dakota Supreme Court’s newest Justice, Mark Freese, who shares his unlikely journey from auto mechanic and police officer to the state's highest bench. Then, Public Service Commissioner Jill Kringstedt joins to explain how North Dakota maintains the lowest electric rates in the nation and why energy independence is the state's ultimate "cheat code." Finally, State Representative Scott Wagner sparks a debate on election reform and the potential for city-level primaries. It’s an episode about public service, pragmatic politics, and why your power bill is lower than your neighbor’s. 🎧 Standout Moments & Timestamps [00:01:18] – The Supreme Court Challenge Greg challenges listeners to name all five North Dakota Supreme Court justices without using Google. Spoiler: Most people can't, yet it’s a co-equal branch of government that impacts every law in the state. [00:05:05] – From the Garage to the Gavel Justice Mark Freese details his "Forrest Gump" career path—starting as an auto mechanic student before becoming a police officer, a JAG officer in the Army National Guard, and eventually a Supreme Court Justice. [00:08:14] – The Ethics of Defense "How can you represent that person?" Justice Freese provides a powerful defense of the Sixth Amendment, comparing the role of a defense attorney to an emergency room doctor who must treat every patient regardless of their past. [00:13:00] – Mandatory Review vs. The High Courts A fascinating look at legal bureaucracy: Justice Freese explains why North Dakota is unique because the Supreme Court must hear every properly filed appeal, unlike the U.S. Supreme Court which only hears about 40 cases a year. [00:16:15] – The 9-Year-Old Campaigner Jill Kringstedt shares how her obsession with public service began in the 4th grade while wearing out her sneakers door-knocking for John Hoeven. [00:20:12] – The $250 Million Savings Commissioner Kringstedt reveals a staggering stat: If North Dakotans paid the same utility rates as Louisiana (the 2nd cheapest state), it would cost the state’s economy an extra quarter of a billion dollars annually. [00:22:12] – "Fairy Dust and Unicorn Farts" Guest host Kevin Flynn vents about the legal battles between Minnesota…

    1h 54m

  7. MAY 4

    War, Water, and the Road to Recovery (5-1-26)

    In his final broadcast before heading to Norway, host Scott Hennen delivers a powerful Friday edition of What’s On Your Mind. This episode balances global security concerns with local North Dakota heart, moving from the strategic necessity of the war in Iran to the launch of a new regional business, "Deep Roots Drainage." The hour concludes with a deeply moving "Feel-Good Friday" segment, featuring the story of Bowden Meyer, an elite young athlete fighting his way back from a traumatic brain injury. From the "Beltway to the Backyard," this episode covers the resolve required for national defense, the importance of legacy planning, and the unwavering strength of the Fargo-Moorhead community. Standout Moments [00:01:00] – The Iranian Decision Point Retired Marine Corps Lieutenant General Arnold Punaro joins the program to break down the "three pillars" of pressure currently being applied to Iran: military blockades, economic asset freezes, and a diplomatic pause. [00:12:45] – A Soldier’s Perspective A 31-year veteran of the Army National Guard calls into the show via the app to share his pride in serving under the current administration, noting a return to "basics" and "lethality." [00:19:00] – The War Over Water Levi Otis joins Scott to officially launch "Deep Roots Drainage." They discuss the legal battles over land easements, salinity issues in North Dakota soil, and how 70 years of combined team experience is helping growers reclaim unproductive land. [00:23:30] – Eliminating the "Probate Pain" Mark Wagner from ND Estate Services explains why a "Will" might not be enough to protect your family from a three-year legal battle. He breaks down the necessity of living trusts and the "Peace Patrol" approach to legacy planning. [00:26:00] – The Story of "Bo-Leaving" In a gripping interview, Chris Meyer recounts the freak golf cart accident that nearly took his son Bowden’s life. He details the harrowing journey through level-one trauma centers and the "battle of inches" occurring daily at Sanford as Bo learns to walk and talk again. [00:28:45] – A Community Call to Action Scott and Chris highlight a massive benefit event for Bowden at Sts. Anne & Joachim Catholic Church, featuring high-end auction items including trips to Cabo and Big Sky, all to support the Meyer family’s immense medical recovery costs.

    1h 55m

  8. MAY 4

    Accents, Accounts, and Accountability (4-30-26)

    In this high-velocity Thursday edition, Scott Hennen is joined by a powerhouse lineup to break down the policies and scandals shaping the spring of 2026. From the "groundbreaking" Working Families Tax Cuts to the "Wild West" of unregulated vaping and a multi-billion dollar Medicaid fraud scheme in Minnesota, this episode explores the tension between government oversight and personal freedom. Special guest Senator Katie Britt (AL) joins Senator Kevin Cramer (ND) to unveil the "secret weapon" of the upcoming midterms: a suite of family-friendly tax provisions including the innovative "Trump Accounts" for newborns. Later, experts dive into the cyber-front of identity theft and the geopolitical "Economic Fury" currently squeezing the Iranian regime. Standout Moments [00:01:10] – The Vaping Ban Debate Jen Fowl (Fargo-Cass Public Health) and Tony Burke (American Heart Association) join the program to discuss a proposed flavor restriction on tobacco and nicotine products, citing a "gamification" of devices intended to addict the next generation of youth.   [00:13:00] – The "Nanny State" vs. Personal Freedom A local caller sparks a fiery debate on whether banning legal adult products is the right way to handle a youth usage problem, while Scott suggests "stiffer fines" for retailers instead of a total ban.   [00:23:45] – The "Trump Accounts" for Newborns Senator Katie Britt explains a "genius" provision in the Working Families Tax Cuts: a government-seeded $1,000 investment account for every child born through 2028, designed to grow into a nest egg for trade school, college, or a first home.   [00:28:45] – Medicaid Fraud & Cyber-Professor Insights Dr. David Myman, an expert in cybercrime, breaks down how "nimble" fraudsters used stolen identities to rip off taxpayers in Minnesota and why the government is currently "behind" in the technological arms race.   [00:32:15] – Economic Fury & $100 Oil As oil prices seesaw due to conflict in Iran, economic advisers Kevin Hassett and Scott Besant outline "Operation Economic Fury," a strategy to freeze Iranian bank accounts and seize offshore crypto assets.   [00:35:45] – Pete Hegseth Takes on Congress A look at the tense budget hearings where Secretary of War Pete Hegseth claps back at "Trump Derangement" inquiries from House Democrats, shifting the focus back to military readiness and tactical proficiency.   [00:37:30] – Grain Markets & The China Meeting David Spickler from Lighthouse Commodities reports on a 25% rally in wheat prices due to a historic High Plains drought and looks…

    1h 54m
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Ratings & Reviews

4.2
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

What’s On Your Mind is a daily forum to discuss the issues impacting North Dakota, South Dakota, Western Minnesota, and Eastern Montana. Join Scott Hennen and his guests as they take your calls to find out "What's On Your Mind?"

Information

  • Creator
    The Flag - AM 1100 and FM 92.3
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    213
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Flag Family Media
  • Show Website
    What's On Your Mind

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