Episode Details

In this episode of the Need to Know Morning Show, hosts Jay Thomas (sitting in for Kevin Flynn) and Alex reminisce about the electric nationwide unity during the 1976 Bicentennial, contrasting it with today’s hyper-divided political landscape. They dive into Stephen A. Smith’s fierce pushback against the National Association of Black Journalists, discuss local Fargo politics following the appointment of Dr. Tim Mahoney as public health officer, and take a deep dive into the severe drought crippling Red River Valley agriculture with guest Bridget Riedel. Additionally, the show touches on wild media blunders—including a fake polling experiment in Los Angeles—and features Megan Whitmer discussing the upcoming 17th Annual Ollie's Ride for HIA Health. Standout Moments 0:00:15 – 1976 Bicentennial vs. Today: The hosts reflect on how the 1976 Bicentennial united Americans regardless of political background, contrasting it with today's political polarization. 0:04:00 – Controversy Over Fargo's Public Health Officer: A breakdown of the Cass County Board of Health's 3-2 vote appointing former Fargo Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney. 0:07:30 – Stephen A. Smith Slams the NABJ: The hosts review Stephen A. Smith’s response to receiving a "thumbs down" award from the National Association of Black Journalists. 0:12:00 – Red River Valley Agricultural Emergency: Guest Bridget Riedel breaks down the extreme drought conditions affecting Traill and Cass Counties. 0:15:30 – Man-on-the-Street Civics Fail: A humorously concerning Jesse Watters Primetime clip showing Jersey Shore beachgoers struggling with basic U.S. history and civics. 0:21:00 – 17th Annual Ollie's Ride: Megan Whitmer joins to discuss the charity motorcycle ride in Vergis, MN, benefiting HIA Health. 0:23:30 – Lee Greenwood on Patriotism: Country icon Lee Greenwood weighs in on political discourse surrounding American patriotism. 0:27:00 – The Fake Poll Social Experiment: Discussion of a media polling company that admitted to fabricating election survey data.