The Neal Larson Show

The Neal Larson Show

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The Neal Larson Show episodes

  • 8.8.2025--NLS--Latenight Reborn, NYC Mayoral race, Viral Wrecks in I.F., Studio 4 Cover

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    In the latest episode of the Neal Larson Show, Neal explores the shifting dynamics in media and politics, starting with Greg Gutfeld's successful appearance on "The Tonight Show." Larson interpreted the friendly exchange with Jimmy Fallon as a sign that mainstream media is slowly realizing Donald Trump is not the villain he was portrayed to be. He contrasted this with the declining ratings and eventual departures of hosts like Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel, who have relied heavily on anti-Trump rhetoric. Larson played a clip from Democratic strategist Dan Turrentine, who lamented that his party is out of touch, terrified of cancel culture, and fixated on "Trump derangement syndrome" rather than addressing the real-life concerns of voters. This type of self-awareness could lead to a Democratic resurgence.

    The conversation then turned to Andrew Cuomo's strategic commentary on the New York City mayoral race and local Idaho news, including a controversy over a paid parking proposal in Idaho Falls and two recent viral traffic accidents. The show featured a live in-studio performance by the band the Space Kitties, who performed their cover of Zach Bryan's "Something in the Orange." The hosts also discussed a Project Veritas report alleging former Attorney General Bill Barr secretly plotted with Fani Willis to prosecute Trump. The episode concluded with a detailed examination of the U.S. Census, debating whether the constitutional term "all persons" was intended to include non-citizens for the purpose of congressional apportionment, a practice critics argue unfairly inflates the political power of states with large unauthorized populations.

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    1 hr 21 min
  • 8.7.2025--NLS--Redistricting, School Choice, Going Postal

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    In this episode of the Neal Larson Show, Texas Democrats are criticized for leaving the state to block a redistricting effort. This seems hypocritical, given the number of times Democrats in other "blue states" who have heavily gerrymandered districts to their own advantage. The conversation then shifted to local issues with an in-studio interview with Paul Hackey, a school board trustee for Idaho Falls District 91. Hackey detailed the frustrating and lengthy teacher salary negotiation process, which has involved 42 hours with a federal mediator. He explained that a recent impasse occurred when the teachers' union members voted against a contract proposal that their own leadership had brought to the school board, which the board had accepted. Hackey expressed his confusion over the union's actions and reiterated that the district has a finite budget and cannot magically create funds for all of the union's demands, though he wishes it could.

    Later in the program, a significant portion of the show was dedicated to the U.S. Postal Service's relationship with Amazon, prompted by texts and calls from postal workers. Workers expressed frustration over being required to deliver large, heavy packages without the proper equipment, leading to injuries and logistical challenges. The hosts and callers discussed the complexities of the situation, with the hosts arguing that while the situation is illustrative of the broader theme of private businesses often operating more efficiently than government entities. The conversation also briefly touched on trustee Paul Hackey's personal support for school choice legislation like House Bill 93, which he views as a form of healthy competition that can ultimately improve public education for students.

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    1 hr 26 min
  • 8.6.2025--NLS--Trump's on the Roof, L.A. Olympics, School Choice

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    In the podcast, the host began by criticizing the liberal Idaho-based group Reclaim Idaho for its "Not a Dollar More" campaign opposing school choice legislation. The host framed this as a positive development for conservatives, citing Reclaim Idaho's history of failed initiatives and arguing their opposition could backfire. The conversation then shifted to national politics, with the host praising President Donald Trump's high-energy style. Topics included Trump's executive order to prevent politically motivated "de-banking," his proposal for a tariff-funded dividend for Americans, and his personal funding of renovations at the White House. The host also dismissed critics of Trump, particularly those who use the popular vote to question his legitimacy, by explaining the function of the electoral college.

    A central theme of the episode was an extended analogy comparing the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to the public education system. The hosts argued that competition from private companies like FedEx and UPS has forced innovation and improved the delivery industry, suggesting the same principle applies to education. The discussion included listener input about the USPS's partnership with Amazon, noting that while postal workers are frustrated by delivering large packages, Amazon's $1.6 billion in payments is a crucial revenue stream for the struggling agency. The hosts concluded that, like the USPS, public education should not fear competition from private and charter schools, as such options ultimately benefit the consumer—in this case, students and their parents—by fostering a more dynamic and responsive educational landscape.

    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?

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    1 hr 25 min
  • 8.5.2025--NLS--Mamdani's Socialist Platform, Texas Dems' Stunt

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    In this episode of The Neal Larson Show, the hosts dive into a variety of political subjects, with a significant focus on Zoran Mamdani's campaign for mayor of New York City. They critique Elizabeth Warren's endorsement of his socialist platform, predicting that if Mamdani is elected and implements his agenda, the city's wealthiest residents will flee. The hosts also point out Senator Cory Booker's refusal to comment on the race. The discussion then shifts to the Texas Democratic lawmakers who left the state for Illinois to deny a quorum for a vote on redistricting. The hosts argue this is a political stunt, as gerrymandering is a common practice, and mention that arrest warrants have been issued for the lawmakers. They also engage the audience with a flash poll, asking for opinions on how Texas Governor Greg Abbott should handle the situation.

    The podcast also analyzes the media and other political figures. The hosts discuss Alyssa Farah Griffin's comments on Kamala Harris and the decline of late-night shows, using Stephen Colbert's canceled program as a prime example of a format losing its audience. They compare the current state of late-night television to the rise and fall of game shows, predicting a similar fate for many. The conversation also touches on the sharp drop in Senator Lisa Murkowski's favorability ratings in Alaska, which they link to the state's ranked-choice voting system. The hosts express concern that this same system will lead to Mamdani's election in New York, which they fear will have national consequences. The episode also includes a discussion about a congresswoman who declared her loyalty to Guatemala over the U.S. and a critique of Elizabeth Warren's intense public speaking style.

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    1 hr 26 min
  • 8.4.2025--NLS--Dems Flee Texas, Decline of Late Night, Legalizing Marijuana

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    In this podcast, the Neal discusses the recent actions of Texas Democratic lawmakers who have fled to Illinois to prevent a quorum and block a vote on a new redistricting map. Texas Governor Greg Abbott is threatening to remove these lawmakers from office, citing a dereliction of duty and potential abandonment of their elected positions. Neal plays a clip of Representative Jasmine Crockett confirming their intent to break quorum. Governor Abbott is also exploring legal action, including potential bribery charges, if it's found the lawmakers accepted money or anything of value, such as free flights and lodging from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, to thwart the legislative process. This is yet another example of the Democratic party's "branding crisis" and inability to accept political losses.

    The conversation later shifts to other topics, including a critique of the television show "The View" and the decline of late-night comedy, which the hosts attribute to overt political bias and a lack of balanced humor. They express alarm over a recent spate of violent crimes across the country and debate whether the pharmaceutical drugs a suspect is taking should be reported by law enforcement, similar to how illegal drug use is reported. The show also features a lengthy and spirited debate with a caller who advocates for the legalization of cannabis, starting with medicinal use for conditions like epilepsy and eventually for recreational freedom of choice. The hosts challenge this, expressing concern that legalizing marijuana for medical purposes often leads to widespread recreational use, and they worry about the negative societal impacts and the effects on children, similar to the widespread availability of pornography.

    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.

    1 hr 23 min
  • 8.1.2025--NLS--Russia Collusion Hoax, Corruption, Musk's Wealth

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    In this episode of the Neal Larson Show, Neal passionately discusses newly released intelligence documents that he claims prove Hillary Clinton personally approved the "Russia-Trump collusion hoax." He argues this was a deliberate and political operation designed to destroy Donald Trump's candidacy and later his presidency, creating deep divisions in the country. Neal and Julie criticize figures like James Comey for their complicity and express deep frustration with the pattern of corruption from the Clintons and the Obama administration. Genuine legal accountability is needed, including indictments and prosecution for those involved, rather than theatrical political grandstanding by Republicans.

    The conversation also explores a variety of other topics, including a detailed discussion about Elon Musk's immense wealth, with Forbes listing his net worth at $407 billion, and his potential to become the world's first trillionaire. Neal and Julie analyze Musk's intense focus and "signal to noise ratio" as the key to his success, while also touching on his complex personal life. They critique the mainstream media, particularly CNN, for its biased coverage and complicity in political narratives, referencing "Operation Mockingbird." The episode is interspersed with lighter debates on music, comparing David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar, and discussing the career of Peter Gabriel, as well as an exchange with a caller about Donald Trump's perceived "flip-flop" on Ukraine.

    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?

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    1 hr 21 min
  • 7.31.2025--NLS--Risch on Tariffs, Ted Cruz's Podcast, Media Bias

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    In an interview with U.S. Senator Jim Risch, the conversation focused on the success of President Trump's tariff policies, which Risch defended as effective due to other countries' reliance on the U.S. economy. Risch expressed conditional support for a potential tariff rebate for Americans, emphasizing the need to address the national debt. He also discussed his legislative efforts, including the "287(g) Program Protection Act" to improve cooperation between local and federal law enforcement on immigration, and a bill to require federal energy regulations to have a five-year sunset clause, aiming to return power to elected officials. The hosts then segued into other topics, including the announcement that Senator Ted Cruz's podcast, "The Verdict," will be joining the station's weekend lineup.

    Neal and Julie also engaged in a wide-ranging discussion on various cultural and political issues. They poked fun at Vice President Kamala Harris's rumored book tour for her failed presidential campaign and invited listeners to suggest satirical book titles. The conversation then shifted to media bias, criticizing the Idaho Statesman for omitting key details in a crime report, specifically that the suspect was a Mexican citizen and the crime was a "violent rape," which they contrasted with the original police press release. This led to a broader critique of left-leaning media outlets manipulating language to fit a narrative, citing historical examples and recent controversies like the American Eagle ad featuring Sydney Sweeney. The show concluded on a lighter note, poking fun at Australia's recent failed rocket launch.

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    1 hr 31 min
  • 7.30.2025 - NLS Dem nonsense, Sudden Epstein Interest Syndrome, Late Show Cancellation

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    This morning on News Talk 107.9, Neal Larson and Julie Mason discussed the latest Democratic reactions to current events, including several clips of Senators Schumer, Klobuchar, and Booker.  Schumer's comments on voter ID laws were criticized as inherently racist, with Larson arguing that requiring ID is a widely supported practice. Klobuchar's anecdote about grocery store shoppers lamenting high prices was deemed inauthentic. Booker's impassioned speech against Trump's policies was labeled as an over-the-top tantrum fueled by an addiction to government money.

    The hosts also touched on the Epstein case, mocking the sudden interest from Democrats now that Trump is back in office. They questioned the lack of similar scrutiny towards Bill Clinton's connections to Epstein.  A listener call sparked a humorous discussion about regional dialects and word pronunciation.  

    Finally, the show wrapped up with a critique of late-night comedy, particularly the now-canceled *Late Show with Stephen Colbert*, arguing its reliance on Trump bashing led to its demise. Piers Morgan's comments on Colbert's cancellation were highlighted, emphasizing the show's dwindling ratings and bloated budget.  The hosts suggested the format itself may be outdated, paving the way for alternative programming like podcasts and YouTube shows.  The show ended with programming notes, including upcoming guests and a new weekend show featuring Ted Cruz.

    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?

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    Visit SandhillMediaGroup.com today.

    1 hr 27 min
  • 7.29.2025 - NLS Trump's win, Panic Tour Analysis.

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    This episode of the Neal Larson Show focuses on the ongoing debate surrounding Idaho's House Bill 93, a tax credit for educational expenses.  Larson argues that opponents of the bill, including the IEA (Idaho Education Association) and various superintendents, are mischaracterizing it as a voucher system and engaging in fear-mongering through staged "panic tour" town halls. He emphasizes that HB 93 simply provides parents with more educational options without detracting from public school funding.  He criticizes the media for adopting the "voucher" terminology and for biased coverage of the town halls.

    Larson suggests that public education needs to adapt to the changing times and address parents' concerns about progressive ideologies in schools, rather than resist change and cling to the status quo.  He proposes that a federal tax credit for education could be a viable solution, giving families even greater control. The show includes an interview with Representative Wendy Horman, the sponsor of HB 93, who confirms she hasn't been contacted by any media outlets covering the "panic tour" and calls the events political rallies.  The episode touches on other topics including a shooting in New York, the Epstein case, the economy, and a petition to protect Idaho's water (keepidahowater.com).  Senator Mike Crapo is scheduled to appear on the next show.

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    1 hr 25 min
  • 7.28.2025--NLS--A Brother's Tribute, Trump's EU Deal, Bongino's Cryptic Message

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    In the first part of the show, host Neal Larson shared the deeply personal news of his older brother Steve's passing at the age of 64. He recounted that his brother, a beloved family man and great storyteller, tragically drowned in the American Falls Reservoir after experiencing engine trouble with his boat while fishing with his grandson. Larson paid a heartfelt tribute to his brother, whom he described as funny and politically aligned with him, and expressed his family's grief while also affirming their faith and focus on supporting his brother's immediate family. He thanked the listeners for their outpouring of condolences and support during this difficult time.

    Following the personal segment, the podcast shifted to political news and commentary. Larson discussed Donald Trump's recent trip to the UK, where he announced significant energy and investment deals with the European Union, while also noting the media's tendency to downplay these achievements. The conversation also touched on the ongoing controversy surrounding the Epstein files, with Larson expressing his skepticism about the official narrative and mentioning a cryptic message from Dan Bongino. Other topics included the news that Peter Strzok deleted his X (formerly Twitter) history, the final sentencing of Lori Vallow Daybell in Arizona, and the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late-night show, which sparked a discussion on the politicization of comedy.

    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?

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    1 hr 26 min

About The Neal Larson Show

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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…