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Neal Larson is an Associated Press Award-winning newspaper columnist and radio talk show host. He has a BA from Idaho State University in Media Studies and Political Science. Neal is happily married to his wife Esther with their five children in Idaho Falls.</p>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.&nbsp; When not on the air she enjoys spending time with her three children and husband of 26 years.</p>Together these two are a powerhouse of knowledge with great banter that comes together in an entertaining and informative show.</p>
On this episode with Neal and Julie, we bring you the Thanksgiving Eve edition of The Neal Larson Show, where traditions, traffic tips, and turkey talk collide in a uniquely festive way. Think of it as the show wrapped in the aroma of pumpkin spice, brown gravy, and a touch of kitchen chaos.
Neal and Julie dive into Thanksgiving quirks, from lobster rolls and pumpkin whoopie pies to the eternal debate: pecan or "pee-can" pie? Neal shares his love for his mom’s pecan pie recipe—a crowd favorite—and encourages listeners to try it, tweak it, and text photos of their creations. Pie night traditions, culinary creativity, and backhanded gratitude make this holiday show as cozy as it is entertaining.
On the serious side, the duo touches on the political spectrum, including musings about Kamala Harris's future, election fallout, and the media landscape. But in true Neal and Julie fashion, they keep it balanced with some lighthearted banter about Thanksgiving meals and even a listener-driven debate about navigating traffic signals—especially those tricky blinking yellow lights.
So grab a slice of pie, join the conversation, and don’t miss this lively, laughter-filled episode of The Neal Larson Show. From all of us here, Happy Thanksgiving—and stay deplorably delightful!
On this episode with Neal and Julie, the conversation takes a deep dive into the state of modern politics, societal norms, and media influence. They touch on the complexities of political accountability, highlighting issues such as party loyalty, the challenges of maintaining ideological consistency, and the consequences of partisan actions like censures.
The discussion also explores the shifting dynamics of political affiliations, contrasting the Democrat Party's alignment with wealthy elites against the Republican Party's increasing appeal to working-class Americans. They dissect the effectiveness of merit-based systems versus identity politics in professional success and societal cohesion.
Elon Musk's influence on modern media narratives and the role of social platforms in shaping public opinion also come under scrutiny. Neal and Julie lament the prevalence of propaganda and misinformation, emphasizing the need for common sense and critical thinking in navigating today’s information-saturated landscape.
Listeners are treated to humorous reflections on broken promises by celebrities vowing to leave the country and a playful proposal to formalize such commitments. The episode wraps with lighter moments, including Neal’s musings about family life and Julie’s thoughts on strengthening advocacy for women.
As always, Neal and Julie offer a mix of sharp insights, candid critiques, and engaging banter, ensuring there's plenty to think about long after the episode ends.
On this episode with Neal and Julie, the conversation touches on a whirlwind of topics ranging from political memes to election security and societal debates. They delve into a controversial meme alleging Senator Risch's supposed FBI vetting requirements for Trump's picks, discussing the potential for such misinformation to create division within the political spectrum. Neal highlights the importance of discerning truth amidst propaganda, noting how memes can become tools for disinformation.
Julie shares insights on personal boundaries, particularly when politics reveal unexpected differences in relationships. Both explore how trust evolves when navigating ideological divides with friends and acquaintances. The pair then pivot to election security, analyzing ranked-choice voting, ballot transparency, and potential voter ID enhancements to bolster public trust. They discuss solutions like biometric data use and same-day voting, weighing the balance between security and privacy.
The episode also tackles societal shifts, including the controversial inclusion of male athletes in women’s sports. Neal predicts a historical reckoning, likening the issue to past civil rights struggles, while Julie reflects on the growing discomfort among participants and advocates for fair competition. They wrap up with candid commentary on political figures, party strategies, and the complexities of achieving meaningful change within the system.
A robust episode, Neal and Julie bring thought-provoking perspectives and a touch of humor to the week's pressing topics.
On this episode with Neal and Julie, they dive into the political landscape post-election, offering a retrospective on how issues rather than candidates defined this unique cycle. They explore voter reactions to economic and cultural shifts, speculating on future Congressional dynamics under potential Trump leadership. Neal shares his optimism about changes in public perception, particularly on polarizing topics like education and virtue signaling, suggesting that common sense may prevail over time.
The discussion then shifts to Pam Bondi's appointment as a Trump ally, contrasting her methodical approach with the controversial allure of other political figures, like Matt Gaetz. Julie and Neal also reflect on the experiences of newcomers to East Idaho, noting the warmth of the community and its unique lifestyle compared to urban areas. The conversation highlights the adjustments new residents face, emphasizing the region's charm, friendliness, and its appeal to families seeking a better quality of life.
Listeners are invited to share their experiences and thoughts on Idaho's evolving culture, creating a heartwarming dialogue about what makes East Idaho feel like home. Neal and Julie end on a lighthearted note, discussing movies, musicals, and community quirks, bringing their signature blend of insight and humor to the airwaves.
On this episode with Neal and Julie...
Neal and Julie delve into a wide-ranging discussion about current political dynamics, election integrity, and cultural shifts. They reflect on past political events, such as Ronald Reagan's presidency, and draw parallels to recent years, including the unexpected outcomes of midterm elections and the challenges of the 2020 race.
The conversation turns to controversies in election administration, including a Bucks County official accused of unethical practices and broader concerns about securing the electoral process. Neal emphasizes the importance of accountability and restoring faith in elections, while Julie shares insights into the cultural battles around fairness, women's sports, and societal norms.
They also touch on the growing influence of independent media figures like Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson compared to traditional outlets, signaling a shift in public trust. Neal and Julie agree on the need for a renewed focus on protecting democratic processes and advancing policies that resonate with the American public.
The duo's analysis highlights the intersection of political strategy, cultural attitudes, and grassroots movements as they look ahead to the next election cycle.
On this episode with Neal and Julie, they delve into several engaging topics, beginning with an analysis of the Republican leadership struggle in the Senate, particularly the dynamics between Senators John Thune, John Cornyn, and Rick Scott. Neal shares insights about the secret vote and the broader implications for conservative leadership in Congress.
They also highlight the Greater Idaho movement with guest Matt McCaw, exploring the idea of merging eastern Oregon with Idaho. The discussion examines the cultural, economic, and political differences driving the push for secession. Neal and Julie analyze the hurdles involved, such as legislative approval from both Oregon and Idaho, and whether public pressure could make the movement viable. Matt outlines how eastern Oregon's values and governance preferences align closely with Idaho’s, while Julie questions the feasibility and potential compromises required for such a dramatic shift.
The episode concludes with a reflection on broader political dynamics, from shifts in conservative influence to how grassroots efforts like the Greater Idaho movement could set a precedent for other regions. Neal and Julie bring their signature mix of thoughtful analysis and lively debate, offering a compelling conversation about the future of regional governance and representation.
On this episode with Neal and Julie, they dive into the complexities of post-election sentiments and current political dynamics. Neal reflects on the emotional aftermath of significant events like elections and discusses the potential consequences of international conflicts, particularly involving Ukraine and Russia. Julie adds her insights on cultural reactions to political outcomes, including viral phenomena and symbolic gestures like head shaving during personal crises.
The duo critiques media narratives, including controversies surrounding election integrity in Pennsylvania and the media’s framing of immigration policies under past and present administrations. Neal shares skepticism about media priorities, while Julie provides perspective on public responses to political and social challenges.
They also explore the importance of adapting to change and the resilience required during transformative periods, offering a blend of sharp critique and humor as they navigate the week’s hot topics.
On this episode with Neal and Julie... The headliner is the highly anticipated Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, which Neal describes as "the lamest thing ever." He shares his thoughts on the disappointment felt by fans, who believed the event was hyped yet scripted, leaving many feeling let down. Julie chimes in, adding her own skepticism about the spectacle.
Shifting gears, they discuss Matt Gaetz’s potential nomination as Attorney General under a Trump administration. Neal suggests it might be a strategic move by Trump to draw attention away from other key appointments, which, by contrast, would appear more moderate and acceptable. The duo also examine the political dynamics among Republican leaders, who face the challenge of opposing Trump’s choices without facing backlash.
Later, Neal and Julie dive into Trump’s evolving relationship with the media. They explore his claims of wanting a free and open press while maintaining control over the narrative, as illustrated by his meeting with Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski at Mar-A-Lago. Julie notes how Trump’s strategic approach positions him as both a polarizing and commanding figure in the media landscape.
Other topics include the Afghanistan withdrawal, the future of mass deportations, and the cultural divide over border policies. Neal and Julie offer insights into how these issues shape public sentiment and political debates, reflecting on the broader implications for the country.
From boxing bouts to political maneuvers, Neal and Julie deliver a lively discussion, engaging listeners with their trademark mix of humor and sharp analysis.
On this episode with Neal and Julie dive into a variety of topics, blending sharp political analysis with their signature humor and wit. They tease a brand-new parody centered around Mitt Romney’s farewell, but you’ll have to download the podcast to hear the full version. The discussion ranges from Matt Gaetz’s potential as a disruptor in government to the broader implications of Trump’s potential presidency and the strategies behind GOP appointments.
They also explore how Democrats’ strategies have evolved post-midterms and the public’s shifting perceptions of key political figures like Liz Cheney and Kamala Harris. Julie brings a unique perspective on how time and distance offer clarity in assessing recent elections. Meanwhile, Neal touches on the challenges of governance under Biden and Harris, emphasizing the historical significance of Trump’s impact.
For a lighter moment, the pair chat about everything from Mike Tyson to Diet Mountain Dew-fueled antics, balancing thoughtful commentary with relatable humor. Plus, they preview an “Open Phone Friday” segment, giving listeners a chance to weigh in.
On this episode with Neal and Julie, the discussion centers on the surprising announcement of Donald Trump selecting Matt Gaetz as Attorney General. Neal shares how he first learned of the news through a text from Julie and his initial skepticism, which quickly turned to astonishment upon confirmation.
Neal reflects on the unconventional choice of Gaetz, contrasting it with more traditional picks like Mike Lee, who embodies the measured and seasoned approach often expected for this role. Neal acknowledges that while Gaetz might not be a long-term fit, his firebrand style could serve a specific purpose: shaking up the Department of Justice and rooting out corruption. Neal likens Gaetz to a "startup CEO," brought in to disrupt the status quo before handing off to someone more steady like Mike Lee.
Julie weighs in, noting that Gaetz’s appointment has stirred mixed reactions, ranging from excitement among MAGA supporters to trepidation from moderates. The two hosts discuss Trump’s strategy of surrounding himself with loyalists and how this bold pick reflects his broader agenda to "drain the swamp."
Listeners are invited to share their one-word reactions to Gaetz’s appointment. Neal and Julie also touch on John Thune’s elevation to Senate Majority Leader, contrasting his cautious approach with Trump’s more aggressive style, and debating whether Thune can align effectively with the MAGA agenda.
The episode wraps with broader reflections on Trump’s appointments and their implications for the Republican Party, the DOJ, and the political landscape over the next six months. Neal and Julie speculate on potential outcomes, including how these moves might define Trump’s administration and reshape the GOP’s direction.
Amanda is a wife. A mother. A blogger. A Christian.
A charming, beautiful, bubbly, young woman who lives life to the fullest.
But Amanda is dying, with a secret she doesn’t want anyone to know.
She starts a blog detailing her cancer journey, and becomes an inspiration, touching and
captivating her local community as well as followers all over the world.
Until one day investigative producer Nancy gets an anonymous tip telling her to look at Amanda’s
blog, setting Nancy on an unimaginable road to uncover Amanda’s secret.
Award winning journalist Charlie Webster explores this unbelievable and bizarre, but
all-too-real tale, of a woman from San Jose, California whose secret ripped a family apart and
left a community in shock.
Scamanda is the true story of a woman whose own words held the key to her secret.
New episodes every Monday.
Follow Scamanda on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Amanda’s blog posts are read by actor Kendall Horn.
