This episode, broadcast mobile from Minnesota as the host heads back to North Dakota, focuses on the ongoing "Democrat shutdown" and the ideological war being waged against conservatives, particularly in the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination. The host, Scott Hennen, and his guests, Congressman Dusty Johnson and Breitbart's Alex Marlow, argue that Democrats are using the shutdown as "leverage" for political gains. They discuss the "weaponization" of the legal system against Donald Trump, and the critical need for conservatives to win down-ballot elections. The episode also includes an interview with the NDSU Turning Point USA chapter president, highlighting the group's growth and upcoming events.   Standout Moments: Fargo PD's Efficiency in Reporting: Fargo Police Chief Dave Zabolsky clarifies that the department has not reduced the amount of calls they respond to, but has created efficiencies with an online reporting system. Since 2022, this system has handled nearly 7,500 crime reports, offsetting the need for two full-time officers per year. The Leverage Shutdown: Congressman Dusty Johnson and the host call the shutdown a "base management exercise" for Chuck Schumer. They state that Republicans have the moral high ground, with a recent CNN poll showing their net approval rating up five points , but must resist caving to $$1.5$ trillion in spending and "goodies" like Medicaid for illegal immigrants. Weaponization of the Legal System: Breitbart Editor-in-Chief Alex Marlow discusses his new book, "Breaking the Law," which details the six major cases against President Trump. He argues that the onslaught of legal action is designed to make it virtually impossible for Trump to campaign for office. The Future of Conservative Media: Marlow explains that the digital ad market was "reset" by a liberal advertiser boycott against Breitbart after 2016, leading to a shift toward donor-driven "philanthropic journalism" to fund important, long-form stories. South Dakota's Economic Slump: Congressman Johnson states that South Dakota's economy has shrunk by 3% in the last six months, placing the state in a "technical recession," and has fallen to 35th best state for business according to CNBC. NDSU's Turning Point Growth: NDSU Turning Point USA chapter President Hayden Smith reports a significant increase in membership, from 70 registered members before Charlie Kirk's death to 120-130 now, with meeting attendance nearly doubling. Will Witt Event Announced: The NDSU chapter is hosting political commentator Will Witt, author of "How to Win Friends and Influence Enemies," next Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. in…

In this dynamic episode of What’s On Your Mind, host Scott Hennen welcomes a powerhouse lineup — from Fargo’s Mayor Tim Mahoney to investor Paul Polanjan of O’Leary Ventures and media personality Brian Kilmeade — for a jam-packed conversation on politics, opportunity, and the soul of North Dakota. Mayor Mahoney shares the city’s big shift toward recovery-based community services and pushes back on claims about reduced police response. Meanwhile, business leaders and investors spotlight North Dakota as a “hidden gem” of American innovation — poised to lead the next wave in tech, energy, and defense. From the “Politics on a Plate” lunch series to a $15 million green pig-iron plant in Minot, and from Turning Point USA events to the economic vision of Kevin O’Leary, this episode captures a state on the rise — and the personalities shaping its future. Standout Moments & Timestamps: 00:03 – Scott opens with the day’s agenda: civic engagement, city updates, and a packed guest list. 07:10 – Carter Eisinger of Cass County Republicans explains how grassroots endorsements shape local elections. 14:45 – The “Politics on a Plate” tradition: where brisket meets political dialogue. 20:20 – Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney details plans for the new Resource and Recovery Center — a compassionate, treatment-focused alternative to downtown engagement programs. 26:30 – Mahoney refutes rumors about police cuts and reassures listeners about the city’s fiscal health. 33:00 – Investor Paul Polanjan joins to discuss why O’Leary Ventures sees North Dakota as “the tip of the spear” for U.S. innovation. 38:00 – Inside the $15M “green pig-iron” project in Minot — reshaping American steel and national security. 45:15 – Brian Kilmeade and Scott riff on leadership, Trump’s second term, and America’s shifting political landscape. 53:40 – Closing thoughts: optimism, opportunity, and why “speed kills” in business and politics alike.

This Tuesday edition of What's On Your Mind dives into the escalating political and financial turmoil facing the country. Host Scott Hennen and guest David Fisher of Landmark Capital discuss the Federal Reserve's potential rate cuts and the national debt hitting $38 trillion. Fisher warns that the debt is causing the world to back away from U.S. Treasuries and discusses the potential for a "coming bail-in" on retirement funds, from which physical gold and silver would be insulated.   A large part of the show is dedicated to the "Schumer Shutdown," as Speaker Mike Johnson and Congresswoman Lisa McClain explain that Democrats have voted 13 times to keep the government closed as a form of "leverage". This political tactic is expected to cause 42 million Americans to lose SNAP benefits by Saturday. Hennen condemns the Democrats' tactics as "cruel and disgusting" and "stone cold bat guano goofy".   In the second half, the host is joined by Captain Brian Newin for "Trooper Talk", focusing on the critical importance of wearing seatbelts in all situations. The discussion is prompted by a fatal accident on 10th Street in Fargo and Newin announces an upcoming nationwide "clicker ticket" enforcement project from November 1st to December 11th. They tackle common myths about seatbelt safety , with one caller sharing a personal outlier story of surviving a bad crash because he wasn't wearing one. The show concludes with Ron Ness of the North Dakota Petroleum Council detailing the state's $45 million investment in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) research to "crack the code" on getting more oil from the Bakken field.     Standout Moments: 0:08:14 - Host questions the motives of Democrats extending the government shutdown to inflict "pain" for "leverage".   0:15:02 - Congresswoman Lisa McClain emphasizes that 42 million Americans will lose SNAP benefits by Saturday due to the political standoff.   0:17:10 - Mike Johnson explains the unprecedented use of an "auto pen" by the Biden administration to sign documents, including executive orders.   0:24:34 - Captain Brian Newin addresses a fatal car accident in Fargo and announces a nationwide seatbelt enforcement project from November 1st to December 11th.   0:29:43 - A caller shares a personal story of surviving a bad crash because he wasn't wearing a seatbelt (an outlier case).   0:34:49 - Ron Ness of the North Dakota Petroleum Council announces a $45 million state investment in Enhanced Oil…

This episode of What's On Your Mind kicks off with host Scott Hennen recounting his jarring weekend experience speaking at Pontopetan Church in downtown Fargo. The church, which has broadcast its service for 70 years, invited Hennen to speak to celebrate the anniversary. Though he intended to show respect, the visit took a sharp turn after his own 10-minute speech when the pastor's sermon began. Hennen felt intensely uncomfortable, describing the sermon as a public "ripping" of him and the Catholic Church and an attack on his conservative positions, including his criticism of the city's Community Engagement Center. The host plays audio of his own remarks, inviting listeners to critique them. He then shares snippets of the pastor's sermon, which he perceived as "Catholic bashing" and a "strawman fallacy," leading him to leave the service abruptly. Hennen was further frustrated when he found the church doors locked as he tried to re-enter for his forgotten coat, calling it a metaphor for the unwelcoming nature of the ELCA Church.     Ag Report and Fargo City Action The discussion shifts to Hennen's "ag report" on the perilous economic situation facing farmers and ranchers, noting that low prices and high input costs are hurting row crop folks, though he notes rancher prices are up. He addresses comparisons to the 1980s farm crisis, arguing that high land values mean the current situation isn't as severe because farmers still have significant assets on their balance sheets. Hennen also expresses his belief that trade deals, such as the one with Argentina involving beef purchases, ultimately serve a "greater good" and that farmers should "Be calm, trust Trump" because he is working to increase demand and higher prices for American agriculture.   Hennen also mentions his concern over Fargo's poorly named Community Engagement Center across from the church, noting he saw two people freezing outside the closed center on a Sunday morning. He argues that government is not equipped to provide the necessary care and that the people need prayer. He reports that the Fargo City Commission is scheduled to vote that very night on moving the center's services out of the area, and he hopes for a 5-0 vote.   Documentary, Veterans Feed, and Tax Policy Later, Hennen interviews filmmaker Corey Hepler about the docuseries My Town, which is premiering its second season. The season premiere will feature Watford City, North Dakota, highlighting the growth…

The "What's On Your Mind" crew tackles a mix of sports frustration and political analysis. The episode kicks off with the hosts lamenting the Minnesota Vikings' latest loss, focusing heavily on the offensive line struggles and Carson Wentz's lack of protection. They dive into whether the team was "outcoached" and joke about the possibility of convincing a retired Jason Kelce to join the team. Shifting gears, the hosts discuss a pre-taped interview with Senator Kevin Cramer. Topics include the government shutdown, the energy sector, and North Dakota's role in national defense, particularly the transformation of Minot and Grand Forks Air Force Bases to counter threats from China. They also touch on Cramer's relationship with Donald Trump and a theory that US agriculture could "grow our own way out" of economic issues. Senator Cramer provides insight from his meeting with President Zelensky's chief of staff, discussing Trump's view of foreign policy through an economic lens. Finally, former NDSU and Wyoming coach Craig Bohl, now head of the Coaches Association, joins the show to discuss the major issues in college athletics, primarily the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) mess and the transfer portal. Coach Bohl highlights the exploitation of young players by predatory agents and the threat to the academic mission of college sports. He advocates for a national registration and salary cap for agents and a potential "buyout" system to compensate schools that develop players who transfer. Plus, the host gets his prediction for the NDSU vs. South Dakota football game.

Scott Hennen is in Dallas wrapping things up, but on today's episode, guest host Kevin Flynn dives into a whirlwind of topics. Hear highlights from Scott's sit-down with Ross Perot Jr., where they discuss his late father's legacy, the building of the Teddy Roosevelt Library in Medora, and a tour of the incredible Perot museum. Learn about Ross Perot Sr.'s role as an early investor with Steve Jobs in NeXT computer and the amazing story of how he rescued two employees from Iran in 1979. The show also tackles listener comments and the hosts' thoughts on: The controversy surrounding the construction of a new ballroom at the White House, with comparisons to past presidential renovations. The ongoing debate about inflation, energy, and grocery prices, and a listener's frustration with Republicans pushing back on cheaper options. A discussion distinguishing between migrants and refugees and the financial impact of illegal immigration. President Trump's recent comments about lowering beef prices by potentially buying Argentinian beef, which sparks a debate among North Dakota cattle producers about market forces and the future of U.S. agriculture. A look at the significance of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) and the role of its builder, Kelsey Warren. It's a fast-paced look at politics, business, and current events.

Scott Hennon, broadcasting live from Dallas, Texas, on his 61st birthday, dives into a range of hot topics with co-host Kevin and callers. The episode features reflections on the radio style of Rush Limbaugh, including the controversy that led to his firing from the NFL for comments about Donovan McNabb. Listeners share thoughts on the ongoing government shutdown, with North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong joining to discuss its impact, the need for a clean Continuing Resolution (CR), and policy issues like the ACA and stand your ground laws. The show also covers Ross Perot's legacy, including his private rescue mission of employees from Iran and his son's patriotic philanthropy, as well as debates about beef prices, tariffs, and the future of agriculture in North Dakota amidst large-scale AI and dairy operations.

Political and Social Commentary The episode of "What's On Your Mind" kicks off with the host questioning his producer about the strategy for dealing with protesters at the "No Kings rally" to prevent them from distracting the show. He expresses a belief that the protesters suffer from "Trump derangement syndrome" (TDS) and sincerely prays for them. The host worries about the sign "8647" displayed by an acquaintance at the rally, questioning if it's "a little bridge too far" for a peaceful protest and alluding to a dark, potentially violent meaning. The host also addresses a combative caller, "Daryl," who criticizes President Trump's "America-first" policies, specifically a $40 billion deal with Argentina and a NATO Article 5-like guarantee for Qatar. The host defends these actions as "3-D chess" aimed at countering China and Russia. However, he is critical of the beef-related part of the Argentina deal, siding with farmers and senators like Kevin Cramer and Chuck Grassley who believe it disadvantages US agriculture. Economic and Financial Insights The show welcomes David Fisher, CEO of Landmark Capital, to discuss the economy. Fisher calms fears of an impending 2008-style financial crisis resulting from recent challenges in regional banks and the auto industry. He advises listeners to "relax" but anticipates a possible market correction of up to $10%$. Fisher reports significant gains in precious metals, noting that silver is up $80%$ and gold is up $62%$ year-to-date. He suggests that the rally is "just starting," citing the fact that central banks now own more gold than US Treasuries—a situation that preceded a major gold rally in the 1970s. He mentions predictions of gold reaching $5,000 to $10,000. He also reveals a "dramatic lack" of physical silver, causing a market squeeze. North Dakota Economy and Vision Brian Krashus, the North Dakota State Tax Commissioner, provides an update on the state's finances, noting a softening of collections due to less favorable pricing for most agricultural commodities and crude oil. Krashus rates his level of concern at a "three" on a scale of ten, but emphasizes the need to look beyond the current "bushel-barrel economy." Krashus shares exciting data on the potential of CO2 Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), which could generate an incremental $3 billion to nearly $9 billion in revenue for North Dakota over a decade. The host speculates that this revenue, combined with the power needs of data centers and "intelligence factories," could make the…

Scott Hennen tackles a wide range of topics, from personal news to national politics and local North Dakota issues. He discusses his upcoming birthday trip to Dallas and the legacy of Ross Perot, including a seven-figure donation by Ross Perot Jr. to the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, ND. Agriculture is a key focus, with Farm Family Director Bridget Riedel outlining the current economic challenges for farmers, citing high input costs, rising equipment prices (up about 20% in the last three years), and wildly volatile fertilizer costs. The host also touches on local events like a split in the Sioux-Gopher hockey series and a pie auction for District 24 Republicans. The episode features two major interviews: Former Governor Chris Sununu (R-NH): Sununu joins to discuss his work as co-chair of the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) Commission on America's Rural Future, which is holding field hearings in North Dakota and Minnesota this week to address the disconnect between federal programs and rural communities. He also clarifies his relationship with President Donald Trump. Congresswoman Julie Fedorchuk (R-ND): North Dakota's lone House member discusses the status of the government shutdown and the need for "pragmatic Democrats" to resolve the appropriations battle. She also gives an update on North Dakota's leadership in the growing counter-UAS and AI industries, emphasizing the state's energy resources as a huge opportunity. Plus, a segment with the Lions Club highlights their work in diabetes awareness and retinopathy screening

Episode Summary: Host Scott Hennen dives into a packed Friday edition of "What's On Your Mind," starting with the excitement of the Sioux vs. Gophers hockey series in Grand Forks , which he calls the "Super Bowl of college hockey". Scott and co-host JT discuss the dynamic of cheering for their alma mater's opponent, and Scott reveals a kind gesture from Gophers coach Bob Motzko to former UND coach Brad Barry. They announce the winners of tickets to the games—the new Lego store in Fargo and Hot Spring Spas and Pool Tables Too (Hot Tub Vinny). This leads to the "Feel Good Friday" segment with Vince Webker (Hot Tub Vinny) , who discusses the wellness mission of his company, focused on making wellness a reality. Vince and Scott discuss the life-changing benefits and science behind hot tubs, saunas, and cold plunges. Vince also touches on sports, particularly the Vikings' upcoming game against the Eagles, predicting Carson Wentz will start at quarterback. The conversation shifts to politics, with a full hour scheduled with Senator Kevin Cramer to discuss the government shutdown. Scott shares a theory that the shutdown is tied to the timing of the "No Kings Rally" and plays a clip of Charlie Kirk debating a student on whether the Republican Party is controlled by billionaires, with Kirk arguing the wealthiest counties and many billionaires are actually on the left. Later, Scott interviews Dean Kyle Armitage of NDSCS Career and Technical Education about the value of trade careers—like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and culinary —and sponsorship programs with companies like Butler Machinery that help students work, get paid, and avoid loans. Finally, Senator Kevin Cramer joins the show to discuss the government shutdown , his desire to expose bureaucracy , the constitutional requirement for Congress to be paid , and answers listener questions on everything from congressional decorum to foreign aid, specifically mentioning a currency swap with Venezuela.   Standout Moments (Approximate Timestamps): 0:01: Scott Hennen's introduction and the excitement for the Sioux vs. Gophers rivalry, including Gopher Coach Bob Motzko's surprising, nice gesture to former UND coach Brad Barry. 0:08: "Feel Good Friday" with Vince Webker (Hot Tub Vinny) discussing the wellness benefits and science of hot tubs, saunas, and cold plunges. 0:21: Scott details the theory that the government shutdown is tied to the timing of the "No Kings Rally". 0:31: Interview with Dean Kyle Armitage of NDSCS Career…