Archives: Episodes

In this raw, rapid-fire episode of The Jay Thomas Show, Jay tackles everything from health hacks and wildfires to political shakeups in Fargo. Kicking off with a surprisingly steamy defense of saunas (they might just beat flu shots?!), Jay and Vinny chat wellness before pivoting into a smoky situation—literally.

With smoke from Canadian wildfires choking the Midwest, Jay questions government inaction, climate narratives, and the real dangers to public health. There’s a touch of satire, some heated debate over Fargo’s commission system, a candid interview with former commissioner Tony Gehrig, and an unexpectedly inspiring story about a teen graduating against all odds.

🔥 It’s local talk radio at its finest: passionate, punchy, and peppered with both laughs and outrage.

⏱️ Standout Moments (Timestamps Included):

• (0:00 – 1:22) – Jay & Vinny’s Hot Take on Saunas: Saunas vs. flu shots? Jay makes a surprisingly strong case for daily steam over syringes.

• (2:00 – 5:20) – Smoke on the Mic: Canadian wildfires trigger Jay’s smoky rant of the week. Is it climate change or just bad forestry?

• (7:14 – 8:02) – Fargo’s Hidden Housing Crisis: People living in storage units?! West Fargo takes preemptive action.

• (12:18 – 14:00) – Jay’s Sleep Apnea Saga: From CPAP struggles to high-tech implants. Real talk about a not-so-restful night’s sleep.

• (1:22:00 – 2:03:00) – Canadian Smoke = U.S. Sanctions?: Jay gets serious about cross-border smoke and demands real political action.

• (3:00:00 – 3:40:00) – Fargo Government Showdown: Former Commissioner Tony Gehrig explains why the city needs to ditch its outdated commission system.

• (4:20:00 – 4:40:00) – A Graduation That’ll Make You Cry: A listener plans a surprise for a teen who went from a 1.0 GPA to graduation in 12 days.

✨ Why Listen?

• ✅ Local issues with national relevance

• ✅ No-filter political analysis

• ✅ Wholesome human moments that hit you in the feels

• ✅ Jay’s signature smoky mix of humor and heat

🎙️ Summary:
Your favorite duo, Janae and Ronnie, are back at it again with a lively Monday morning chat that mixes smoky skies, vintage store nostalgia, and hard-hitting hygiene truths (yikes!). With wildfire smoke drifting down from Canada, the team reflects on hazy weekends and community resilience.

Special guest Scott Moen joins in to spotlight the Moorhead American Legion’s vibrant local presence and its upcoming Summer Blast event benefiting veterans. Get ready for tributes, dunk tanks, and steak nights!

In true Coffee Club style, it’s equal parts community, comedy, and “did-they-really-just-say-that?” moments.

🔥 Standout Moments & Timestamps:

• 0:01:00 – Kicking off with wildfire smoke woes and Canadian haze

• 0:12:30 – Remembering Alf Clausen, the Jamestown native who scored The Simpsons

• 0:26:10 – Local politics and the petition for ward-style government in Fargo

• 0:38:50 – Question of the Day: What can’t you leave home without? (spoiler: pew-pews and Diet Dr. Pepper)

• 0:54:00 – Paddlefish make a surprise return to the Minnesota River 🌊

• 1:00:45 – Stores we miss: from Toys R Us to Woolworth’s and KB Toys nostalgia

• 1:14:50 – Small Business Monday with Scott Moen from the Moorhead American Legion

• 1:24:30 – Common mistakes we all make daily — are you guilty? 👀

🎯 Vibe: Small-town talk show meets morning coffee banter with a splash of sass, a dash of community news, and full cups of charm.

When disaster strikes in America's heartland, every day counts. For farm families facing a health crisis, injury, or natural disaster, the inability to plant or harvest can spell financial ruin in a matter of weeks. Farm Rescue stands as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of rural communities coming together, providing emergency support when farmers need it most.

Founded in North Dakota by airline pilot Bill Gross twenty years ago, Farm Rescue dispatches volunteers and equipment to farms across ten states, ensuring crops get planted and harvested when farmers cannot do the work themselves. What's remarkable is the scale of impact achieved by just six full-time employees coordinating over 700 volunteers who commit at least a week of their time to help complete strangers save their livelihoods.

The stories behind each case reveal the harsh realities facing America's agricultural communities. From farmers battling cancer while trying to keep multi-generational operations afloat, to young families facing catastrophic injuries during critical planting seasons, to those struggling with mental health crises—Farm Rescue provides not just practical assistance but a lifeline of hope. Their reach has expanded well beyond their North Dakota origins to include Minnesota, Montana, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Kentucky, and Illinois, with plans to add five more states in the coming years.

What makes Farm Rescue unique is how it embodies the best traditions of rural America while adapting to modern agricultural challenges. Their fleet of equipment—including late-model planters, tractors, combines, and semis—allows them to efficiently serve families in crisis across vast geographic areas. The organization operates on a $4.5 million annual budget, with 85% going directly to operations, ensuring maximum impact for every dollar donated.

Want to be part of this remarkable mission? Visit farmrescue.org to learn how you can volunteer, donate, or refer a family in need. Together, we can ensure that a health crisis or natural disaster doesn't mean the end of a farming legacy that took generations to build.

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Contact the team at Pifer's

Tonight Big Game James McCarty and Jace Denman discuss the Minnesota Timberwolves' 2024-25 season. They discuss the recent ups/downs of the franchise, compare Anthony Edwards to other NBA stars as to when they won their first championship, and more. They also discuss if the 2024-25 season was a success or failure.

📝 Episode Summary (Apple/Spotify-style):

In this jam-packed Friday edition of The Jay Thomas Show, Jay and Ronnie gear up for a smoky weekend—literally. With Canadian wildfire smoke rolling in and the Fargo Marathon underway, it’s a wild mix of air quality alerts, marathon banter, and unpredictable weather.

But that’s just the beginning.

Jay dives deep into the good old days of television, honoring the late Loretta Swit (“Hot Lips Houlihan”) of MASH fame, triggering a hilarious and nostalgic tribute to the greatest classic TV shows ever. From Columbo to Miami Vice, from Rockford Files to CHiPs, listeners weigh in on their all-time favorites. Meanwhile, Jay's inbox blows up with street racing videos, panhandler accordion performances, and Minnesotans sounding off on a controversial new boating law coming this July.

It’s chaos. It’s comedy. It’s community.

🔥 Buckle up and get ready for:

• Boater license fury (01:58:00)

• The ultimate top 5 classic TV throwdown (01:06:30)

• Fargo traffic madness (01:20:15)

• A crash that’s got everyone talking (01:55:40)

• “Accordion Guy” goes on tour? (01:44:50)

• Jay’s favorite underrated ‘70s movie (02:03:00)

🕓 Timestamps of Standout Moments:

• 00:03:45 – Jay kicks off with “Hot Tub Vinny” and customer service shout-outs

• 00:14:10 – Red Wing boot nostalgia and winter footwear talk

• 00:45:30 – Wildfire smoke forecast and marathon health concerns

• 01:06:30 – Loretta Swit passes; sparks a TV throwback frenzy

• 01:20:15 – Fargo street racing crash debate + live listener reactions

• 01:44:50 – Accordion guy becomes an unexpected local legend

• 01:58:00 – Jay unleashes on Minnesota’s new boating license law

• 02:03:00 – Deep cuts: forgotten ‘70s gems like Thunderbolt and Lightfoot

🎧 Whether you're here for the laughs, the rants, or just a hit of hometown talk, this is Jay Thomas in full Friday form.

In this sizzling summer edition of Rocky’s Downtown Hour, Rocky kicks things off with barbecue and beats, previewing the iconic Happy Harry’s Ribfest — a four-day feast of ribs, music, and family fun hosted at the FargoDome. Guest Sarah Dykema from the FargoDome shares juicy details on the lineup, from Montgomery Gentry and Smash Mouth to bounce houses and deep-fried everything (Twinkies, Oreos... you name it!).

But it’s not all sauce and sunshine — Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski joins the second half for a candid conversation on downtown safety, homelessness, and new innovations in policing, including electric trikes, e-bikes, and real-time surveillance technology. With added officers on the way and ordinance updates in motion, downtown’s public safety gets a powerful upgrade.

Finally, Ashley Grooms from Interstate Parking jumps in to tackle Fargo’s parking myths. Turns out, downtown’s ramps are underused and safer than you think. Plus, new tech upgrades and better signage are on the horizon.

📢 Episode Description:
On this hazy yet fabulous Friday, Janae and Ronnie brew up a feel-good, info-packed episode of The Coffee Club! From smoky skies to silly TSA warnings, this show covers everything you need heading into the weekend. Expect laughs, nostalgia, and even a little public safety wisdom along the way.

Whether you're in the mood for fun facts, vet biker clubs, or learning which foods absolutely do not belong in the microwave—this episode's got it all.

🎧 Timestamps & Standout Moments:

• 0:00 – Weekend Vibes & Smoky Skies
  Start your Friday with a chuckle and a check-in on the Canadian wildfire haze drifting into town.

• 4:02 – “Pup of the Week” 🐾
  Meet Siggy, a smart and stubborn schnauzer who’s stealing hearts—and couches.

• 14:19 – Microwaves, Microplastics & Mayhem
  A hilariously relatable rundown of what not to microwave. Spoiler: grapes, fabric, and breast milk make the list.

• 27:45 – TSA Alert: “Juice Jacking” is Real 🧃🔌
  Find out why you might want to avoid those public USB charging stations at airports. (Bonus: A brief crash course in “tap pay” survival.)

• 36:30 – Flight Attendant Rules That’ll Surprise You ✈️
  From no eating in uniform to fake name tags and forbidden hair colors—these quirky airline rules will blow your mind.

• 59:12 – This Weekend’s Plans: Kayaking, Concerts & Car Shows
  Listeners share their weekend adventures—from Steve McQueen choppers to Static-X concerts and backyard fires.

• 1:04:23 – New in Town: Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association 🏍️🇺🇸
  Tom Krabbenhoft introduces Fargo’s brand-new chapter of the CVMA. Brotherhood, service, and a whole lotta horsepower.

• 1:24:41 – Mechanics' Pet Peeves & Car No-Nos 🚗
  Top habits that drive your mechanic nuts. (Yes, riding your brakes and ignoring strange noises made the list.)

• 1:33:17 – Did You Know? 💡
  Trivia nuggets like how Australia used to be called New Holland and what happens when you floss with your hair (ew).

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe!

Overview
In this freewheeling and fast-paced episode of The Jay Thomas Show, Jay and his co-hosts serve up a lively stew of state politics, school cell phone bans, cannabis legalization, gun laws, and some good ol’ Fargo flair. Governor Kelly Armstrong joins for an extended chat, answering pointed listener questions and giving updates on legislative drama, property tax reform, and school policies. The show also dives into the real-world impact of marijuana legalization across the Red River in Minnesota, complete with listener stories, spirited debate, and hilarious off-the-cuff moments.

🎯 Highlights & Timestamp Guide

⏱️ [1:49] – Weather Banter & "Banana Belt" Bragging
Jay opens with a sunny mood and Governor Armstrong pops in to claim it's “nicer in Bismarck,” prompting laughs and listener emails.

⏱️ [7:19] – Mining the Truth: Armstrong Talks Bula Mine
The Governor shares big news about the reopening of the Merlin mine in Bula, ND—a game-changer for national security and critical minerals.

⏱️ [9:01] – Remembering Cindy Schreiber Beck
A heartfelt moment as Armstrong reflects on the life and impact of aviation pioneer and ag leader Cindy Schreiber Beck.

⏱️ [10:23] – Veto Showdown: Legislative Drama Unpacked
Jay and the Governor discuss a confusing veto over housing funds, FTE debates, and whether a special session is looming.

⏱️ [12:05] – Property Tax Pain
The hot topic: Do reforms really bring relief? Armstrong explains the $1,650 credit and the new 3% cap on tax increases. Jay and callers aren't so sure...

⏱️ [24:00] – School Cell Phone Ban Incoming 📵
Jay and Armstrong debate SB 2354, which bans student cell phones in school during the day. Armstrong says it’ll improve mental health and learning. Jay shares teacher and parent reactions, both supportive and skeptical.

⏱️ [37:00] – Cell Phone Culture Wars
Why can’t students leave phones in cars? Are teachers addicted too? A cultural critique of America's phone obsession unfolds.

⏱️ [47:00] – Breaking News: Local Fatal Crash
Jay reports on a tragic car accident and reflects on the weight of delivering tough news live.

⏱️ [1:05:39] – Rogue Judges & Tariff Talk
The episode ramps up into political commentary about courts blocking federal policies. Jay and callers dive into debates about executive authority and resistance politics.

⏱️ [1:06:56] – Tribal Cannabis Store Opens in Moorhead 🌿
Jay explores Minnesota’s first off-reservation tribal dispensary, “Waabigwan Mashkeke,” with lots of laughs, some sticker shock, and big public response.

⏱️ [1:12:00] – Is Weed Worth It?💸
Callers and emailers weigh in on marijuana costs, from $12 joints to $375 ounces, and whether medical weed is affordable or just a pipe dream.

⏱️ [1:26:05] – Guns, Permits, and Minnesota Confusion 🔫
Jay tries to untangle Minnesota's gun laws with a string of informed (and not-so-informed) callers, sparking a mini-civics lesson with laughs along the way.

⏱️ [1:40:00] – Smells Like Skunk Spirit 🦨
The crew discusses the nose-wrinkling potency of modern weed and why today’s strains are a far cry from the mellow tokes of yesteryear.

💬 Listener Vibes

“Better grades, better minds—ditch the cell phones in schools!”
“Property taxes capped at 3%? That’s government math magic.”
“Jay, can you say ‘Waabigwan Mashkeke’ three times fast?”

📍Episode Location: Fargo, ND + statewide listener base
🎧 Where to Listen: Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your Jay Thomas fix.

In this episode of Professional Launch, host Ricot Aladdin dives deep into the real-world value of networking and relationship-building in early career development. He’s joined by Kurtis Karn, Associate VP of Talent Acquisition at KLJ Engineering, and Alex Cassett, a college intern with a knack for marketing and meaningful connections.

From Kurtis’ journey through pharmaceutical sales to his passion for mentorship and talent strategy, to Alex’s inspiring path from high school competitions to professional internships—this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt moments.

We explore:

• Why the best opportunities often come from relationships, not résumés

• The biggest misconceptions students have about networking

• How to make meaningful connections—even if you’re an introvert

• The magic of mentorship and building your personal board of directors

• How to use LinkedIn (and social media) wisely as a young professional

• Why in-person connections still beat digital handshakes (most of the time)

Whether you're a student, job seeker, or seasoned pro looking to pay it forward, this episode will inspire you to lean into community and connection to unlock new opportunities.

🔗 Plus, learn about the mentoring platform at ProfessionalLaunch.org and how you can get involved.

Join Bonnie Amistadi and guests every weekday from 5 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. on AM 970 WDAY for local news, weather, and conversation done right.

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