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The Neal Larson Show

Neal Larson

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 married to his wife Esther with their five children in Idaho Falls.

Julie Mason is a long-time resident of east Idaho with a degree in journalism from Ricks College. Julie enjoys reading, baking, and is an avid dog lover. When not on the air she enjoys spending time with her three children and husband of 26 years.

Together these two are a powerhouse of knowledge with great banter that comes together in an entertaining and informative show.

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Today · 1 hr 17 min
10.23.2026 Early Voting Surge | Prop 1 Ad Controversy | Idaho Election Readiness
Send us Fan Mail ## 1) Episode Summary Neal Larson welcomes Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrain with Election Day just 11 days away, digging into unusually strong early voting turnout and what’s driving it—including the outsized impact of Prop 1, big money flooding into Idaho politics, and the practical realities county clerks are facing as voters work through multi-page ballots. McGrain also addresses a fast-moving controversy around Prop 1 advertising and discounted broadcast rates, explaining what his office can (and can’t) regulate, and why some of the fight may land in FCC territory. Neal also raises voter-roll confidence questions after receiving an absentee ballot request mailed to a deceased family member, and McGrain details the state’s safeguards and database tools for removing deceased voters. The show then takes a breather with “Studio Four Covers” as Idaho Falls teacher and musician Sam Cooley drops by for an original song (“Taylor J”) and a powerful cover of Hozier’s “Work Song,” followed by a quick, funny moment when a listener asks if he’s playing Burger Theory—prompting a “doppelganger” joke. Neal returns to election talk with State Controller Brandon Woolf, focusing on waste vs. fraud, where oversight is hardest (with Health & Welfare’s sheer scale standing out), and why “Transparent Idaho” matters for public trust. The hour wraps with big station news—“NewsTalk 2” launching Monday—plus election-night coverage plans, and a replay of Neal’s interview with Stop Prop 1’s Tom Luna about a last-minute ad-buy tactic routed through the Idaho Democratic Party and Terry Pickens’ campaign to secure cheaper candidate ad rates, a move Luna calls deceptive and precedent-setting. ## 2) Highlights - Secretary of State Phil McGrain reports over **115,000 early ballots already cast**, with early in-person voting surging since COVID. - A deep dive into **Prop 1 money and messaging**, including concerns about out-of-state spending and campaign finance laws “not built for” today’s tactics. - McGrain’s practical warning: in many counties the ballot is **three pages long**, and **Prop 1 may not appear on page one**—plus the quirky wrinkle that the “state gun” vote won’t include pictures. - “Studio Four Covers” standout: **Sam Cooley’s live performance**—original “Taylor J” and an intense “Work Song” cover—plus a quick laugh over a **Burger Theory “doppelganger.”** - State Controller Brandon Woolf explains Idaho’s financial plumbing—controller as the **“checkbook,”** treasurer as the **“investments”**—and why Health & Welfare’s volume makes it a key risk area. - Tom Luna alleges a late-breaking Prop 1 tactic: **issue ads re-labeled as candidate ads** via Terry Pickens/Idaho Democratic Party to obtain **cheaper broadcast rates**, triggering complaints and potential legal/FCC scrutiny. 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.
Yesterday · 1 hr 14 min
10.22.2026 Jim Risch Interview | Dirty Text Tactics | Iran Pressure Plan
Send us Fan Mail ## 1. Episode Summary With Julie Mason still out of town celebrating a brand-new granddaughter, Neal ran solo and opened the show with U.S. Senator Jim Risch. Risch addressed a suspicious campaign text that appeared to impersonate the Democratic Socialists of America “endorsing” him—something he called a dirty trick and potentially a criminal violation because it lacked required disclaimers. Neal and Risch also dug into Achilles’ ongoing debate complaints, with Risch arguing modern debates have devolved into insult-fests and that his campaign is prioritizing broader-reach formats like phone town halls. They closed with Risch’s perspective on Iran, where he backed President Trump’s actions based on intelligence he says he has also seen, stressing pressure tactics and a desire to avoid “boots on the ground.” The rest of the program was Neal in campaign-season mode: previewing the station’s “News Talk 2” launch, laying out election-night plans, and spending significant time on Idaho’s Prop 1 abortion initiative—especially why the margin matters, and why he believes confusion and misinformation are driving some support. Neal also ran a fast “flash poll” on HJR 4 (a constitutional amendment giving the Legislature sole authority over marijuana and certain drug policy), sparking a lively listener back-and-forth about direct democracy vs. out-of-state money and ballot manipulation. The hour wrapped with Neal revisiting Todd Achilles’ attempt to explain his Bernie Sanders/AOC appearance, arguing Achilles’ donation history undercuts his “I’ll speak anywhere” framing. --- ## 2. Highlights - Senator Jim Risch reacts to the fake-looking “DSA endorsement” text and calls it a likely dirty trick—and potentially a state and federal offense without proper disclaimers. - Risch on why he’s skipping debates: they’ve shifted from issue-focused to “demeaning sparring,” and he’d rather reach voters through town halls and direct messaging. - Neal’s deep dive on Prop 1: why it would become law quickly with little/no legislative “buffer,” and why a bigger defeat margin could keep it from returning. - Flash poll fireworks on HJR 4: listeners split between “stop out-of-state initiative money” and “don’t surrender voter power,” with sharp arguments on both sides. - Neal plays Todd Achilles’ own audio defending the Bernie/AOC rally appearance—then counters with Achilles’ donation record and unanswered culture-issue questions. 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.
Wednesday · 1 hr 18 min
10.21.2026 Out-of-State Money | HJR 4 and Marijuana | Idaho Politics 2026
Send us Fan Mail ## 1) Episode Summary Neal uses today’s show to ask a bigger question sparked by the Jim Risch–Tad (Tada) Achilles race: are political debates still worth doing—or have they mostly turned into viral “gotcha” theater? Along the way he plays a handful of classic debate moments (Reagan’s age line, Trump’s “you’d be in jail,” Rick Perry forgetting an agency, Biden’s “would you shut up, man?”, and Kamala Harris’ busing exchange) and weighs what those moments actually *prove* about someone’s ability to govern. Listeners weigh in by text and phone, with plenty of pushback and agreement on whether debates help voters, especially with unknown candidates, or whether they’ve become unproductive ambushes. The hour also brings a real mix of emotions: Julie Mason is away after the birth of her granddaughter (mom and baby doing well), and Neal shares condolences to former Pocatello Mayor Brian Blad after the death of his wife Laura. Later, Neal makes an extended case for supporting **HJR 4**, arguing it’s a needed guardrail against out-of-state money and soundbite-driven ballot initiatives—especially on marijuana and other drugs—while acknowledging the “direct democracy” appeal and taking calls from listeners on both sides. The guest segment features **Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield**, who recaps her recent debate, discusses data and transparency around the parental choice tax credit, and makes the case that Idaho’s school funding formula (largely unchanged since 1994) needs a student-centered overhaul. Critchfield also confirms her opposition to **Proposition 1**, noting potential conflicts with Idaho’s existing “parents’ bill of rights” requirements around keeping parents in the loop on critical student issues. --- ## 2) Highlights - Neal’s flash poll on whether it’s time to “retire the debate,” plus listener arguments that debates expose unprepared candidates—and counterarguments that modern debates are mostly performative ambushes. - A rapid-fire tour of unforgettable debate clips (Reagan’s age jab, “you’d be in jail,” Rick Perry’s “oops,” Biden’s “shut up, man,” and Harris’ busing moment) to show how much politics rewards stagecraft. - Neal’s blunt, full-throated endorsement of **HJR 4**, arguing Idaho’s ballot initiative process has become a Trojan horse for out-of-state money and half-truth campaigns. - Caller pushes back on HJR 4 with a key concern: if the legislature ever legalizes marijuana in the future, voters could lose the ability to reverse it by initiative. - Debbie Critchfield on rewriting Idaho’s **education funding formula**—and why a 1994-era model no longer matches classroom reality. - Critchfield’s comments on the parental choice tax credit: transparency is fair, but she doubts opponents will get the “gotcha” result they’re hoping for. 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.
Tuesday · 1 hr 20 min
10.20.2026 Faith Coalition Unite | Parental Consent Debate | Idaho at a Crossroads
Send us Fan Mail ## 1. Episode Summary Neal Larson holds down the show solo while Julie Mason is away awaiting baby news (a fourth grandchild — and the first granddaughter), then dives straight into what he calls “silly season” politics. The biggest thread is the Idaho U.S. Senate race: Neal breaks down an uncredited, apparently illegal campaign-style text that tried to tie Sen. Jim Risch to the Democratic Socialists of Idaho (DSA). He stops short of making an accusation about who sent it, but lays out what he sees as a pattern of dirty-trick desperation in the anti-Risch effort—tying it to earlier moments in the race and to a broader trend of Democrats running as “independents” in deep-red states as a strategic head fake. The other major focus is Proposition 1 (abortion), including a full interview with Stop Prop 1 leader Tom Luna. They discuss the scale of outside money pouring into Idaho, the coalition of faith groups opposing the measure, and why supporters rarely encourage voters to read the full text. Neal argues Prop 1 is a culture-shaping vote that would ripple far beyond Election Day, then later pivots into a local story highlighting the broader “what world are we living in?” theme: the Bonneville School District asking employees to certify biological sex for compliance with Idaho law. The hour wraps with updates on a new “News Talk 2” station launch and more listener reaction—especially frustration that basic boundaries now require major political battles. --- ## 2. Highlights - Neal flags the “DSA endorsement” text in the Risch race as uncredited (and potentially illegal) and asks listeners: is anyone else seeing a repeatable dirty-tricks pattern? - A sharp takedown of the “Independent” label as increasingly just a rebrand for Democrats in Idaho—plus Neal’s critique of Achilles’ own “I’ve been a Republican and a Democrat” clip. - Tom Luna interview: outside money, campaign mechanics, and why the pro-Prop 1 side won’t tell voters to simply read the proposition. - Neal’s argument that Prop 1 isn’t just policy—it’s culture and migration, and once a state swings on abortion law, it’s hard to “claw back.” - Bonneville School District’s biological-sex verification form becomes a flashpoint for Neal’s broader point: the left “muddies the water,” and institutions are forced into clunky fixes. - Programming news: launch of “News Talk 2” (105.1 FM / HD2) and Markley, van Camp & Robbins returning to their original 10–1 slot. 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.
Monday · 1 hr 24 min
10.19.2026 Out-of-State Money | No Kings Fizzle | Trump Women’s Health Task Force | News Talk 2 Launch
Send us Fan Mail ## 1. Episode Summary (1–2 paragraphs) Julie’s headed out for “grandma duty” again, but not before she and Neal dug into what’s shaping up to be a huge stretch for East Idaho: the upcoming election (with plenty of fire aimed at Proposition 1), the launch of News Talk 2 next week, and the broader political energy—or lack of it—showing up in local activism. Neal argued Prop 1’s “grassroots” branding is a façade powered by out-of-state money and national networks, and the two vented frustration at lawmakers who won’t plainly say where they stand until it’s politically convenient. They also unpacked a proposal making English the official language of Idaho, pushing back on claims that it’s inherently racist or designed to harm immigrants—framing it instead as social cohesion and a practical “common currency” for government, with Julie emphasizing immigration works best when assimilation is part of the deal. The show took a turn into national headlines when they carried live audio from the White House as Melania Trump and President Donald Trump announced a new women’s health initiative—creating a women’s health division within the NIH and a White House task force led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Julie called it long overdue given how much medical research has historically centered on men, and both hosts contrasted women’s health research with the political habit of labeling abortion as “health care.” The rest of the hour bounced between the dwindling turnout for “No Kings” protests in Idaho, sharp criticism of Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester’s comments about targeting people who worked in the Trump administration, concerns about illegal voting (and media attempts to downplay it), and a lighter wrap with BYU–Notre Dame reactions—plus a listener call highlighting positive fan behavior at the game. --- ## 2. Highlights - Neal predicts Prop 1 fails—and says the goal is a decisive blowout so ranked choice/open primary-style efforts “don’t come back for 50 years.” - A pointed takedown of the “grassroots” label: Neal and Julie argue national activist networks and out-of-state money are driving Idaho ballot campaigns. - Debate over English as Idaho’s official language—Julie: “Please come and assimilate,” and Neal’s analogy that a shared language functions like a shared currency. - Live White House audio as Melania Trump and President Trump announce a women’s health push at NIH; Julie calls it “music to my ears.” - “No Kings” protests appear to fizzle across Idaho—reports of tiny crowds in Idaho Falls, Rexburg, Driggs, and Coeur d’Alene. - Listener Marilyn calls in with a real-world moment of sportsmanship after the BYU–Notre Dame game: “Your fans are so kind it’s hard to be mad.” 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.
October 16 · 1 hr 25 min
10.16.2026 - Announcing "Newstalk 2" | S4C: Joseph Thomas, "No Myth' | Flashpoll: BYU or Notre Dame |
Send us Fan Mail Neal Larson and Julie Mason announced the launch of **News Talk Two** on 105.1 FM, set for October 26, with a new lineup of national hosts and an afternoon replay of their morning show. The change also brings Markley, Van Camp & Robbins back to their former 10 a.m.–1 p.m. slot on News Talk 107.9, while Clay and Buck move to the new station. They explained how listeners can tune in on FM, HD Radio, and the station apps—and emphasized that the goal is to give East Idaho listeners more choice. The conversation ranged from a Tesla Roadster demonstration that sparked talk of flying cars to criticism of a campaign jab aimed at Senator Jim Risch. Local musician Joseph Thomas joined them for an original song and a cover of Michael Penn’s “No Myth.” Later, listeners weighed in on Idaho’s Prop 1 debate, parental consent, church involvement in ballot measures, and the homeschool tax credit. A BYU–Notre Dame prediction poll brought some lighter moments, while Julie’s anticipation of meeting her new granddaughter led to a warm exchange about family and the arrival of a new baby. ## Highlights - Neal and Julie unveiled News Talk Two, a new East Idaho station launching October 26, and detailed its lineup and listening options. - Markley, Van Camp & Robbins will return to the 10 a.m.–1 p.m. slot on News Talk 107.9, while Clay and Buck move to News Talk Two. - A Tesla Roadster demo—with a car flipping above a track and descending on thrusters—prompted speculation about the future of flying cars. - Neal and Julie criticized a campaign video mocking Senator Jim Risch, calling the personal jab juvenile and short on substance. - Local musician Joseph Thomas performed an original song and a heartfelt acoustic cover of “No Myth.” - Callers challenged Terry Pickens’s positions on parental consent and church involvement in ballot measures; Julie also shared her excitement about welcoming a granddaughter. 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.
October 15 · 1 hr 26 min
10.15.2026 Inside the Battle for Idaho Governor | Proposition 1 Odds Shift | Parental Consent Debate
Send us Fan Mail ### 1. Episode Summary Democratic candidate for Idaho Governor Terri Pickens joins Neal and Julie in the studio for an extensive discussion on the state’s political landscape with just weeks remaining before Election Day. Pickens lays out her platform, focusing heavily on working-class affordability, the proposed repeal of the state grocery tax, local property tax structures, and her strong opposition to the $50 million parental choice school tax credit program. She addresses the dynamics of her race against Governor Brad Little and Independent challenger John Stegner, detailing how she plans to leverage executive veto power to negotiate with an overwhelmingly Republican legislature if elected. The conversation also tackles the complex and heated debate surrounding Proposition 1, Idaho’s ballot initiative on reproductive rights. Neal, Julie, and Pickens spar over viability definitions, out-of-state campaign funding, parental consent requirements, and how the legal language of the proposition might be interpreted by courts versus medical practitioners. Additionally, Julie shares surprising first-hand feedback from elementary school teachers regarding Idaho’s new 60-second classroom moment of silence law, revealing that the requirement has been far smoother and more grounding for students than initial public outcry suggested. --- ### 2. Highlights * **Terri Pickens on the Governor's Race:** Idaho Democratic gubernatorial nominee Terri Pickens makes her in-studio debut to discuss affordability, property tax relief, grocery tax elimination, and how she intends to work with a Republican supermajority using executive veto power. * **The Proposition 1 Battle:** Neal and Julie analyze the declining probability models for Proposition 1 while debating guest Terri Pickens on viability limits, parental consent standards, and legal fine print. * **Independent Candidate Dynamics:** Pickens addresses rumors regarding her campaign, clarifying her stance on Independent challenger John Stegner and explaining why she believes his candidacy pulls moderate votes away from Governor Brad Little. * **School Funding & Tax Credits:** A spirited debate on public education funding, contrasting the state’s Launch program for workforce training against the controversial $50 million parental choice tax credit program. * **Classroom Silence Law Update:** Julie reveals unexpected positive feedback from Boise elementary school teachers who report that Idaho's mandated 60-second moment of silence effectively centers students at the start of the day. 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.
October 14 · 1 hr 24 min
10.14.2026 Initiative Signatures Go Public | The Todd Achilles Paper Trail | Identity Politics in Sports
Send us Fan Mail ### 1. Episode Summary In this lively Wednesday broadcast, Neal Larson and Julie Mason break down key local election mechanics, sparked by Secretary of State Phil McGrain’s official clarifications regarding absentee ballot verification and write-in candidates. The conversation quickly turns to a heated debate over voter initiative transparency after a North Idaho blogger published unverified petition signature lists. Neal and Julie argue that individuals who sign initiative petitions act as mini-legislators whose actions belong in the public domain. When an angry text calling the hosts "disgusting" comes in, Neal and Julie run an impromptu flash poll—resulting in unanimous listener agreement that petition signatures should be easily accessible online. The hosts also examine the political maneuvers behind Proposition 1 and Independent legislative candidate Todd Achilles. Playing audio from a past documentary investigation, Neal highlights the stark contrast between Achilles’ public claims of wanting to elect "moderate Republicans" and his extensive financial donor trail to prominent national Democrats. Shifting to broader culture war dynamics, Neal and Julie react to sports commentator Clay Travis defending his NFL quarterback rankings against accusations of racial bias, critiquing how modern identity politics and trendy academic jargon disrupt honest public discourse. --- ### 2. Highlights * **The "Disgusting Caucus" Flash Poll:** Neal and Julie launch a fast-paced listener poll after an angry text message sparks 100% audience agreement that petition signatures on ballot initiatives should be matters of public record. * **Unmasking Prop 1 Architects:** Documentary audio examines Independent candidate Todd Achilles, contrasting his claims of elevating moderate Republicans with a donation history to high-profile national Democrats. * **Identity Politics in the NFL:** Neal and Julie react to analyst Clay Travis pushing back against claims of racism for ranking Josh Allen over Lamar Jackson, highlighting how identity politics invades sports commentary. * **Ballot Mechanics and Absentee Audits:** The show details Secretary of State Phil McGrain's guidelines on incomplete ballots, signature matching protocols, and write-in candidate deadlines ahead of November. * **Supreme Court Merch Banter:** A humorous exchange unfolds over the Idaho Supreme Court's regional courthouse tour, with Neal and Julie envisioning judicial concert-style t-shirts and souvenirs. 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.
October 13 · 1 hr 26 min
10.13.2026 Idaho Abortion Measure Plunge | Medical Clarity for Doctors | Guilfoyle Resignation News
Send us Fan Mail ### 1. Episode Summary The tide appears to be turning dramatically on Idaho’s Proposition 1 ballot initiative, and Neal and Julie spend much of today’s episode dissecting why. Highlighting data from online prediction markets like Polymarket, Neal tracks the sudden drop in the measure’s likelihood of passage—plunging from over 60 percent down into the high 20s. The team attributes this shift to heightened voter scrutiny as Election Day approaches, alongside major institutional involvement, including a $1 million donation from the LDS Church and $300,000 from the Catholic Diocese to opposition groups. Neal and Julie dive deep into the initiative's late-term viability language, campaign finance disclosures showing over $800,000 flowing into leadership-owned LLCs, and listener calls debating whether the state's initiative process has been hijacked. They also put forward a common-sense solution to ongoing healthcare confusion: rather than altering statutes, Idaho should require physicians to review and acknowledge existing state law so care decisions are made with full legal clarity. Beyond the ballot measure, the show covers a swift lineup of national political developments and cultural shifts. Neal and Julie discuss the federal search conducted at Representative Ilhan Omar’s D.C. residence, reports of the Trump team asking Kimberly Guilfoyle to step back from her diplomatic nomination, and Scott Bessent’s sharp, viral letter taking aim at Senator Elizabeth Warren. To wrap up, they explore compelling new demographic data revealing a steep double-digit decline in teenage girls identifying as LGBT, sparking a candid discussion on social contagion, cultural messaging, and how political movements target younger generations. --- ### 2. Highlights * **Prop 1 Market Crash:** Polymarket and parallel prediction markets report a dramatic drop in Idaho’s abortion expansion initiative, falling from over 60% down to under 30% likelihood of passage. * **Following the Campaign Money:** Sunshine disclosures reveal that over $800,000 from the main pro-Prop 1 group has been paid to a private LLC run by the campaign's lead organizer. * **A Common-Sense Medical Solution:** Neal and Julie argue that instead of changing state law, Idaho should require OB-GYNs to sign an annual acknowledgment of state statutes to eliminate healthcare misunderstandings. * **National Political Shakeups:** Commentary on news surrounding a federal search at Rep. Ilhan Omar's home, Kimberly Guilfoyle's diplomatic nomination withdrawal, and Scott Bessent’s witty rebuttal to Sen. Elizabeth Warren. * **Shift in Youth Demographic Data:** A review of a striking new study showing a double-digit decline in teenage girls identifying as LGBT, prompting a debate on social contagion and media messaging. 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.
October 12 · 1 hr 28 min
10.12.2026 Election Toolkit Breakdown | Dissecting Dem Candidate Slips | Fuel Costs & National Security
Send us Fan Mail ### Episode Summary With Election Day just three weeks away, Neal Larson and Julie Mason dive headfirst into the high-stakes battle surrounding Idaho’s Proposition 1. Addressing misconceptions floating around local communities, Neal and Julie break down how public opinion is shifting as voters learn the true scope of the measure beyond its advertised exceptions. Joined early in the morning by pro-life advocate Kristen Hawkins ahead of her local event at Hillcrest High School, the duo examines the surge of financial and organizational support fighting the measure, including the official record of the LDS Church’s one-million-dollar donation. To help listeners navigate the complex ballot, Neal and Julie highlight their online Election Toolkit, giving East Idahoans a transparent, objective way to verify precinct locations, review official voter guides, and inspect campaign finance reports. The discussion moves seamlessly to national political headlines, where Neal and Julie analyze puzzling media appearances and viral rumors, including candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s evasive interview responses and Texas candidate James Talarico’s two-week campaign disappearance. Turning to the economy and foreign policy, Neal pushes back against listener complaints over gas prices, arguing that short-term financial discomfort must be weighed against long-term national security, particularly regarding Iran’s accelerating nuclear capabilities. The show rounds out with a look at commentator Bill Maher’s warnings about Marxist rhetoric entering mainstream Democratic platforms, alongside an energetic in-studio visit from Todd and Scott of Advanced Window Products, who discuss winterizing East Idaho homes following their local gold medal award win. --- ### Highlights * **Unpacking Proposition 1**: Neal and Julie reveal how voter momentum in Idaho is swinging against Prop 1 as details emerge regarding elective abortion expansions far beyond popular perception. * **The "Pro-Life But" Trap**: A sharp commentary on political figureheads and voters who claim pro-life values while endorsing broad ballot measures that reintroduce elective abortion access. * **Candidate Disappearances & Media Softballs**: The hosts dissect viral rumors surrounding Texas politician James Talarico's missing two weeks, contrasting his flu claims with emerging reports and media cover-ups. * **Gas Prices vs. Global Security**: Neal challenges a caller's frustration over rising fuel costs, arguing that halting Iran's nuclear ambitions takes precedent over short-term economic discomfort. * **Bill Maher’s Marxist Warning**: Analyzing recent commentary from Bill Maher highlighting how radical socialist quotes from historical figures are surfacing in modern campaign platforms. * **Winter Readiness with Advanced Window Products**: In-studio guests Todd and Scott share practical advice for insulating East Idaho homes as early snow falls across Pocatello and Island Park. 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.
October 9 · 1 hr 21 min
10.9.2026 - S4C: Aspen Palmer, Averett Bros. | Election Toolkit | $1M Church donation opposing Prop 1
Send us Fan Mail Neal and Julie introduce their new Idaho election toolkit, a one-stop resource for previewing ballots, finding polling places, researching candidates and tracking campaign funding. The conversation then turns to the reported $1 million donation to the Stop Prop 1 political action committee, which Tom Luna announced on the show. Much of the discussion centers on Proposition 1: the hosts challenge claims they say are misleading, discuss Idaho’s existing abortion law and its exceptions, and urge listeners to look closely at what the initiative would change. They also hear from callers and texters, including one listener asking about Attorney General Raúl Labrador’s opponent’s position on the measure. The show also features clips from a heated Michigan Senate debate between Mike Rogers and Abdul El-Sayed, with the hosts discussing the candidates’ competing claims and questions about El-Sayed’s background. BYU-Idaho student and musician Aspen Palmer brings a quieter moment to the program with an acoustic cover, while Neal and Julie celebrate plans for a new Idaho State University basketball arena. Elsewhere, they wonder about Texas candidate James Talarico’s extended absence from campaigning—while acknowledging that rumors about the reason are unconfirmed—and weigh listener reactions to the prospect of a public execution by firing squad. ## Highlights - Neal and Julie unveil an election toolkit that brings Idaho ballot, polling-place, candidate and campaign-finance resources together in one portal. - The hosts discuss Tom Luna’s announcement of a reported $1 million donation to the Stop Prop 1 PAC, noting that campaign filings had not yet appeared. - A caller asks about Lori Hickman’s position on Prop 1, prompting Julie to recall her connection to Mormon Women for Ethical Government and say she believes Hickman supports the measure. - BYU-Idaho student Aspen Palmer performs an intimate acoustic cover, earning enthusiastic texts from listeners. - Neal and Julie celebrate plans for a new ISU basketball arena, then end the show with a divided listener response to whether an execution by firing squad should be public. 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.
October 8 · 1 hr 21 min
10.8.2026 LDS Church’s Million-Dollar Move | Senator Risch on the Trail | Labrador Takes on Government Fraud
Send us Fan Mail ### Episode Summary In this high-energy, news-packed edition of *The Neal Larson Show*, Neal and Julie break some of the biggest political news in the state: the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has donated a historic $1 million to the Stop Prop 1 campaign. To unpack what this means for Idaho’s legal and cultural landscape, Attorney General Raul Labrador joins the studio for an in-depth conversation. Labrador dissects the wording of the proposed ballot initiative, calling out what he describes as misleading narratives from pro-choice groups. He warns that the initiative's vague language regarding "extraordinary medical measures" could lead to an unregulated expansion of abortion rights and potentially dismantle parental consent laws. He also highlights his office’s recent successes, including clearing cyber tip backlogs within the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit, and outlines his upcoming push to reform and fund prosecutions against government and Medicaid fraud. Earlier in the program, U.S. Senator Jim Risch drops by to share updates from his own campaign and laugh off recent political rumors. Senator Risch, along with Neal and Julie, gets a kick out of a viral, awkward moment on Boise radio where a paid consultant for Risch’s opponent, Todd Achilles, called into a live show under a fake name pretending to be an average voter—only to be immediately busted by the host. The team also dives into the hilarious political feud between gubernatorial candidates Terry Pickens and John Stegner, exposing what they call "political party larping" in local counties where voters masquerade under party labels to influence primaries. It's a sharp, witty, and deeply informative look at the campaign strategies, big money, and core principles shaping Idaho’s upcoming elections. --- ### Highlights * **A Million-Dollar Game-Changer:** Breaking down the massive news of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints donating $1 million to help defeat the Prop 1 initiative. * **The "Bob from Eagle" Blunder:** Senator Jim Risch and the hosts react to the embarrassing moment when a paid consultant for candidate Todd Achilles called a Boise radio show under a fake name and got instantly busted live on air. * **Labrador on Legal Realities:** Attorney General Raul Labrador refutes narratives about Idaho's medical laws, revealing that a doctor suing the state admitted under oath that he had not even read the statute before sending patients out of state. * **Political Party Larping:** Neal and Julie call out voters in Bingham County who allegedly "cosplay" as Republicans to tip local elections while actively opposing conservative platforms online. * **Fleeting Political Fame:** Raul Labrador reacts with a laugh to being opposed by former state officials, sharing a hilarious personal story about the rapid humility of life after holding public office. * **Honoring Idaho's Veterans:** Senator Risch shares a moving account of welcoming home veterans from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam on a recent Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. 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.
October 7 · 1 hr 22 min
10.7.2026 Busted on Caller ID | License Plate Readers vs. Civil Liberties | Lawrence Wasden's Sour Grapes
Send us Fan Mail ### Episode Summary In this mid-week block of *The Neal Larson Show*, Neal and Julie jump headfirst into a passionate community debate that completely lit up the phone lines: the rise of Flock safety cameras and license plate readers. While some listeners express deep alarm over privacy rights and the potential for a creeping police state, Neal and Julie push back, arguing that public license plates have no expectation of privacy and that these cameras are vital, heavily regulated tools for catching actual criminals. Things get incredibly spicy on the air when callers dial in—ranging from concerned libertarians to one highly unhinged caller who questions whether police officers should even carry guns or drive cars. It's a raw, funny, and revealing look at local sentiment, complete with a hilarious AI-generated "Suno" song constructed entirely out of listener rants about the cameras. Additionally, the team breaks down the latest cycle of "performative outrage" from legacy media over Donald Trump’s sarcastic campaign remarks about Southern California, and they expose a cringeworthy campaign blunder in Idaho politics. Independent candidate Tada Killies’ campaign got caught red-handed when a paid consultant tried to call into a radio show disguised as an ordinary voter named "Bob"—only to be busted instantly by the studio’s caller ID. With a look ahead to a massive guest lineup, this episode perfectly balances high-stakes local policy debates with sharp political humor. --- ### Highlights * **The Sarcasm Blindspot:** A breakdown of the legacy media’s synchronized "fierce backlash" talking points after taking a sarcastic joke Donald Trump made about Southern California completely literally. * **Busted on Caller ID:** A hilarious campaign fail where a paid consultant for independent candidate Tada Killies called a live radio show under a fake name, only to get instantly called out by the host because of the caller ID screen. * **The Great Flock Camera Debate:** A fierce, polarizing debate with local listeners over the constitutional reality of Flock license plate cameras, featuring a caller who spectacularly derails while arguing against police having guns. * **Angry Texts Turned to Art:** Neal uses AI music generator Suno to turn angry listener texts about police surveillance cameras into a dramatic, operatic ballad. * **Wasden's Sour Grapes:** Neal and Julie dissect former Idaho AG Lawrence Wasden's endorsement of Raul Labrador's opponent, warning it will only tarnish Wasden's own legacy. 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.
October 6 · 1 hr 20 min
10.6.2026 The Risch-Achilles Matchup | Public Union Politics | Sarcastic Slogans
Send us Fan Mail ### Episode Summary It’s election season in Idaho, and the team is diving deep into the data, the debates, and the downright bizarre moments of modern politics. Neal and Julie break down the state’s high-profile Senate race between incumbent Senator Jim Risch and challenger Todd Achilles, exploring the political realities of polling numbers and the strategic calculus behind debate dodging. They also look at State Superintendent Debbie Critchfield’s principled stand on third-party debate inclusion, challenging the disingenuous outrage of critics who hold different candidates to entirely different standards. Beyond the campaign trail, the conversation shifts to the increasingly creepy world of corporate surveillance and data harvesting. From McDonald’s dynamic app-pricing schemes to license plate readers tracking your every move, the hosts ask a fundamental question: can we ever truly reclaim our personal data, or is the era of privacy officially dead? Plus, Neal shares a hilarious on-air "couples therapy" session with a condescending ChatGPT, they mock the circular wisdom of Kamala Harris’s latest "inspirational" quotes, and they dismantle the academic absurdity of "heteropatriarchy" over a cold Diet Mountain Dew. Finally, they examine the financial woes of the Idaho Education Association and pitch a common-sense path forward for education reform where funding actually follows the student. --- ### Highlights * **Debate Realities:** Neal breaks down why leading candidates like Jim Risch decline debates, exposing the insincere outrage of partisan critics who target Risch while ignoring other prominent non-debating incumbents. * **ChatGPT Couples Therapy:** Neal hilariously scolds a condescending AI for trying to police his words and steer his on-air commentary regarding political action committees. * **The Rise of Dynamic Pricing:** A debate on McDonald’s using app data to track user habits and implement personalized pricing, exploring where convenience ends and exploitation begins. * **Circular Wisdom:** Julie and Neal play a head-scratching clip of Kamala Harris sharing her "profound" philosophy on power—inspiring Neal to use AI to generate a mock inspirational poster. * **Dethroning Academic Buzzwords:** The hosts skewer Texas Representative James Talarico for warning that "heteropatriarchy" is colonizing minds, reminding listeners that regular people are just trying to get through the day. * **IEA's Financial Crunch:** An analysis of how new Idaho laws banning automatic paycheck union deductions have put the Idaho Education Association in severe financial trouble, sparking a discussion on public-sector union reform. 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.
October 5 · 1 hr 21 min
10.5.2026 Prop One | Bear-tackling | Idaho's Property Tax
Send us Fan Mail ### Episode Summary It is a packed Monday edition of *The Neal Larson Show*, and Neal and Julie are tackling some of Idaho’s biggest hot-button issues head-on. Fresh off of an LDS conference weekend, the hosts dive into a powerful warning against the rapid rise of sports betting and gambling—highlighting shocking statistics about its hold on teenagers and young adults—before transitioning into the increasingly fierce statewide battle over Proposition 1. With the Catholic Diocese of Boise and the LDS Church taking highly public stands against the initiative, Neal and Julie call out local lawmakers who refuse to take a public stand on the ballot measure, labeling their silence as cowardice. They break down the real-world implications of Prop 1 on elective abortions, cutting through campaign talking points to advocate fiercely for the protection of unborn children. The conversation also features wild and entertaining detours, from a brave father in Salmon, Idaho, who physically tackled a black bear inside his home to protect his daughters, to a viral satirical video lampooning personal responsibility in hookup culture. Later, Mountain States Policy Center’s Chris Cargill joins the post-show discussion to detail the quiet financial collapse of the Idaho Teachers Union following a failed lawsuit, as well as a fresh, intellectual approach to property tax reform. With a preview of a massive upcoming guest lineup, including Senator Jim Risch and Attorney General Raúl Labrador, this episode delivers a perfectly balanced blend of hard-hitting local politics, cultural commentary, and signature Monday morning energy. ### Highlights * **The Youth Gambling Crisis:** Shocking youth gambling statistics cited from LDS leader D. Todd Christofferson's weekend address reveal that nearly a third of 11-year-old boys in America have engaged in sports betting. * **The Silence of Lawmakers:** Neal and Julie call out Idaho lawmakers who refuse to take a public stand on Prop 1, arguing that staying silent in a conservative state is a cowardly cop-out that constituents should remember. * **Catholic Diocese Gets Involved:** A listener shares a striking development from the Boise area, where parish priests are actively handing out "Vote No on Prop 1" yard signs to churchgoers immediately following mass. * **The Salmon Bear Tackle:** The hosts react to the incredible viral news of an Idaho father in Salmon who had to be airlifted to the hospital after literally tackling a black bear that broke into his home to protect his family. * **Teachers Union Financial Woes:** Chris Cargill of the Mountain States Policy Center explains the financial crisis hitting the Idaho Teachers Union, resulting in closed satellite offices and massive staff layoffs after their failed school choice lawsuit. 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.
October 2 · 1 hr 15 min
10.2.2026 - S4C: Loryn Troyer, Brandi Carlile | AI Frustration | Prop One
Send us Fan Mail This episode kicks off with a hilarious look at Neal Larson’s self-described "toxic relationship" with artificial intelligence. After getting locked in a stubborn, back-and-forth argument with ChatGPT over its refusal to calculate the probability of Idaho’s controversial Proposition 1 passing, Neal and Julie Mason turn to their audience to run a rogue experiment. Listeners step up to test the prompts on their own accounts and alternative platforms, revealing fascinating differences in how these digital tools handle sensitive political predictions. The high-tech debate gives way to a beautiful live performance by local East Idaho singer-songwriter Lauren Troyer, who joins the studio to perform her original song "Salt" and a stunning acoustic cover of Brandi Carlile’s "The Story." Following Lauren’s performance, Julie slips away early to visit her grandchildren, leaving Neal to fly solo through a jam-packed analysis of local political theater. Neal dives straight into reports of "Vote No on Prop 1" campaign signs mysteriously vanishing from yards across Idaho Falls, equating the thefts to minor-league censorship. He also breaks down the optics of the Idaho Attorney General's race, analyzing why a surprising endorsement of Democrat Laurie Hickman by former Republican AGs Lawrence Wasden and Jim Jones might actually backfire and help incumbent Raul Labrador. Finally, Neal takes aim at Independent U.S. Senate candidate Todd Achilles, arguing that third-party labels in deep-red Idaho are often used like *Men in Black* "neuralizers" to make voters forget a candidate's partisan history. --- ### Highlights * **Neal’s Battle with the Bots:** Neal shares his hilarious frustration with ChatGPT's refusal to analyze political polling, prompting listeners to run their own real-time experiments to see which AI platforms would cooperate. * **Studio 4 Live Session:** Idaho Falls native and Bureau of Land Management employee Lauren Troyer showcases her incredible musical talent with an intimate in-studio acoustic session. * **The Midnight Sign Snatchers:** A caller reports a rash of stolen "Vote No on Prop 1" signs in the local area, leading Neal to call out the hypocrisy of political thieves who silence opposing viewpoints. * **The AG Race Endorsement Drama:** Neal reacts to former Republican Attorneys General Lawrence Wasden and Jim Jones endorsing Democrat Laurie Hickman, explaining why the strategic move might actually secure a victory for Raul Labrador. * **The Independent "Neuralizer" Trick:** Neal criticizes candidates who run as Independents to hide their deep partisan ties, pointing to Senate candidate Todd Achilles' extensive history of donating to national progressive causes. * **Medical Insiders Sound Off:** Following a botched execution in the news, local healthcare professionals text in to explain the clinical realities of IV infiltration, debating whether the failure was due to incompetence or sabotage. 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.
October 1 · 1 hr 24 min
10.1.2026 - Idaho's Ballot Fight | Noah's Ark Discovered? | Jingle Completions
Send us Fan Mail Neal Larson and Julie Mason spent much of the morning urging Idaho voters to look beyond the slogans surrounding Proposition 1. Neal argued that its language on abortion exceptions and fetal viability is too vague, and both hosts questioned claims that the measure is simply about privacy, compassion, or protecting families. Listener texts added perspectives on local campaign signs, voting choices, and the challenge of disagreeing with a partner over a deeply held moral issue. A caller also shared a moving memory of supporting a young woman after an abortion, prompting a conversation about grief, compassion, and the lasting impressions that shape our views. The hosts also examined campaign claims about Senator Jim Risch’s record on guns and terrorism, adding context about an alternative proposal he supported and raising concerns about due process. The discussion ranged from rumors about Risch’s campaign to a brief look at reports about a possible Noah’s Ark discovery near Mount Ararat—while acknowledging that the evidence is disputed. Along the way, Neal and Julie mixed pointed political arguments with playful banter, including a round of vintage advertising jingles. ## Highlights - Neal challenged Proposition 1’s wording on abortion exceptions and viability, arguing that voters deserve clarity about what the measure would allow. - Julie and Neal unpacked a campaign text accusing Senator Jim Risch of siding with terrorists, then explained the alternative gun-sale proposal he supported. - Listener messages brought local perspectives on Proposition 1 signs, voting strategy, and the strain of political disagreement in relationships. - A caller recalled comforting a young woman after an abortion, sharing a personal story that shifted the conversation from campaign arguments to grief and compassion. - Neal and Julie tested each other on classic advertising jingles, trading lines from familiar commercials. - They discussed reports of drilling and radar scans at the boat-shaped Durupınar formation, while noting that the claim it could be Noah’s Ark remains disputed. 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.
September 30 · 1 hr 23 min
9.30.2026 - INTERVIEW: Julianne Young, Prop One | Transfer Portal Discussion | Idaho's Nuclear Future
Send us Fan Mail Neal Larson and Julie Mason move from a lighthearted riff on Kamala Harris’s brief “word salad” clip to a serious discussion of Idaho ballot measures, public policy, and a breaking aviation story. They debate proposed limits on the college sports transfer portal, arguing that transfers can create opportunity for athletes but that repeated moves can undermine team-building and the student-athlete experience. They also discuss a court decision involving Idaho’s Medical Freedom Act and new guidance on how churches may report political spending without disclosing individual donors. The show’s main focus is Proposition 1. Julie Ann Young joins the conversation to challenge the case made in a previous interview, and Neal and Julie examine the measure’s wording, its possible effects on Idaho abortion law, and what might happen if lawmakers later need to clarify it. They also revisit claims about criminal and civil liability for doctors, urging listeners to look beyond campaign messaging. Elsewhere, they discuss an alleged attempt by one pilot to attack another aboard a Dubai–Tel Aviv flight—while noting that the motive remains under investigation—and weigh the potential benefits and risks of storing spent nuclear fuel in Idaho. Listener texts help steer the conversation, including questions about the transfer portal, Prop 1, and Idaho’s water and infrastructure concerns. ## Highlights - Neal and Julie compare Harris’s short word-salad clip to a small, overpriced fast-food salad—and Julie dubs her a “salad shooter.” - They argue that the transfer portal can help athletes move up, but repeated transfers risk turning college sports into a revolving door. - Julie Ann Young joins to rebut a previous Prop 1 interview, prompting a detailed debate about the measure’s wording, effects, and potential need for legislative clarification. - The hosts discuss an alleged cockpit attack on a Dubai–Tel Aviv flight, debate how the incident is being described, and react to listener texts alleging a “false flag.” - Neal and Julie consider Idaho’s potential spent-nuclear-fuel storage proposal, emphasizing the need to protect the Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer. - They explain why they support HJR 4 and oppose Prop 1, while encouraging listeners to vote and examine what each measure would do. 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.
September 29 · 1 hr 24 min
9.29.2026 - America.gov launches | Grocery Store Habits | Prop One Update |
Send us Fan Mail Neal and Julie devoted much of the morning to Idaho’s Proposition 1, urging listeners to look beyond the measure’s “privacy” and exceptional-case messaging and focus on what Neal argued would be a broad expansion of elective abortion. They questioned whether the voter-initiative process is still serving its intended grassroots purpose amid substantial out-of-state spending, and pointed to opposition from Idaho’s Catholic, Latter-day Saint, and Protestant communities as a sign of growing momentum. Callers added their own pro-life perspectives, asked whether doctors could be compelled to perform abortions, and shared stories about choosing life for babies with disabilities. Neal and Julie encouraged listeners to make the case calmly and keep people engaged ahead of Election Day. The conversation also ranged from President Trump’s launch of the America.gov government-services portal—which Neal and Julie tried out, with mixed first impressions—to concerns about children’s media and the subjects schools take up. They discussed criticism of Miss Rachel’s political associations and praised a parent’s school-board speech arguing that schools should prioritize children’s education and well-being. A light stretch of banter about grocery-store habits and Julie’s “jazzy” mobility cart brought some levity to an otherwise serious morning. ## Highlights - Neal and Julie urged listeners to explain what they believe Proposition 1 would change, rather than letting the debate get narrowed to medical privacy or rare exceptions. - They questioned whether Idaho’s voter-initiative system has become a channel for well-funded out-of-state campaigns, and praised faith communities for organizing against Prop 1. - Callers discussed abortion terminology, doctors’ conscience protections, and families who continued pregnancies after learning their babies might have disabilities. - Neal and Julie praised a parent’s school-board speech calling for schools to focus on education and let children experience childhood. - They tested Trump’s new America.gov portal; Julie saw value in its ability to point users toward services, while Neal’s first searches mostly led him to other government websites. - Grocery-store habits, crowded aisles, and Julie’s “jazzy” cart sparked a playful detour. 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.
September 28 · 1 hr 22 min
9.28.2026 - FLASHPOLL PREDICTION: Prop One | Walmart Digital Pricing | Idaho's Official Gun
Send us Fan Mail As the November election inches closer, Neal Larson and Julie Mason take the temperature of Gem State voters with an on-air flash poll on Proposition 1. Moving past personal voting preferences, the conversation shifts to hard predictions on whether the controversial abortion initiative will pass or fail. Drawing on recent listener reactions, contrasting church statements, and a powerful listener analogy comparing rare medical crises to broad elective exemptions, Neal and Julie confront the lingering wildcard in Idaho politics: whether an overconfident conservative base might suffer from voter complacency at the ballot box. Beyond the ballot fight, the show tackles corporate and state accountability on multiple fronts. The duo breaks down Walmart’s rollout of electronic shelf tags, digging into consumer fears surrounding algorithmic dynamic pricing and patented tracking technology. Closer to home, they examine the fourth district court’s sudden state takeover of the depleted Idaho School Benefit Trust after millions in public education funds vanished without explanation. Topped off with an engaging debate over the six contenders vying to become Idaho’s official state firearm, this episode delivers a sharp blend of local politics, economic skepticism, and regional culture. --- # Highlights * **The Prop 1 Flash Poll:** Listeners weigh in with their predictions on Proposition 1’s fate, generating an 80–20 consensus that it will fail while raising serious concerns about conservative voter turnout. * **The "Tennis Ball vs. Beach Ball" Metaphor:** A poignant listener message illustrates how heartbreaking, rare pregnancy complications are being leveraged to pass wide-open elective abortion policies. * **Walmart’s Dynamic Pricing Scrutiny:** Neal and Julie unpack digital price tags on retail shelves, questioning corporate assurances against personalized pricing in light of existing patents and airline-style surge algorithms. * **State Takeover of Insolvent School Trust:** Department of Insurance Director Dean Cameron takes emergency control of the Idaho School Benefit Trust after millions in unaccounted funds left the entity unable to pay claims. * **Choosing Idaho’s Official Firearm:** A look at the six historic and modern contenders on the advisory ballot, from the Winchester 1873 to the Remington Model 700, and why Neal refuses to copy Utah and Arizona. 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.

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