Kristin Brey hosts an energetic, cross-partisan show with , Democratic strategist Joe Zepecki and special guest Hilario Deleon, Milwaukee County Republican Party chair in for Bill McCoshen. Hilario introduces himself to listeners before they all dig into the U.S. Senate’s failure to extend Medicare subsidies, the latest Trump farm bailout, and the broader affordability debate dominating national politics. The conversation shifts to the Wisconsin Governor’s race, with analysis of Joel Brennan’s entry on the Democratic side and Hilario’s Gen Z take on the Republican field — including rumors of Tim Michels possibly eyeing another run. In the 11 a.m. hour, they tackle the upcoming Judge Hannah Dugan trial, judicial activism, and the flaws in the pardon system. Then it’s time for Say Something Nice and Grab Bags, with stories ranging from Shop-With-A-Cop chaos to tech frustrations to the healing power of music. Kristin closes the show with an interview with gubernatorial candidate Joel Brennan, discussing his launch video, campaign message, and how he plans to raise his name recognition across Wisconsin.
Kristin Brey opens the show with the newest entry into Wisconsin’s governor’s race — Greater Milwaukee Committee President Joel Brennan — before diving into a headline grabbing story: a Campbell’s vice president fired after a secretly recorded rant about “bioengineered meat.” Kristin explores America’s dependence on ultra-processed foods and whether lawsuits like San Francisco’s new case against major food companies could force real change. She then shifts to another consumer controversy: personal dynamic pricing. A new report shows people are being charged different prices for the same order on apps like Instacart. Kristin breaks down how it works, what it means for shoppers, and how to avoid getting price-tested. In City Stories, Urban Milwaukee’s Jeramey Jannene joins to talk about: -A Frank Lloyd Wright home becoming a new museum -Mayor Cavalier Johnson’s weakened influence -The expanding Powerline Trail -PFAS lawsuits -And concerns over surveillance tech used by the Sheriff’s Department. -And more!
Kristin Brey and guest co-host Todd Allbaugh break down President Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania, where he blamed Democrats for America’s affordability problems (again). They then look at a strong election night for Democrats — including a flipped Miami mayorship for the first time in 30 years — and discuss the Senate’s debate over the future of Affordable Care Act subsidies. Next, Reed Galen of The Lincoln Project joins to assess whether third-party or “party-less” candidates have any real path in today’s political climate. In the second hour, Climate Power’s Jesse Lee weighs in on rising energy prices driven by the explosion of data centers across the country. Kristin and Todd also examine the latest wave of manufactured AI-driven outrage, this time involving Taylor Swift. They celebrate Wisconsin legend Montee Ball’s induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, and wrap things up with Todd’s classic “What’s Worse?” holiday edition: Eggnog vs. Fruitcake.
With Todd Allbaugh filling in as co-host, Kristin Brey kicks off the show by introducing listeners to him and his political roots in Wisconsin’s Republican Party. Todd reflects on his time around Act 10 and Voter ID as they pivot into the day’s big story: President Trump’s new farmer bailout, brought on by tariff-driven losses. Richland County beef farmer David Unbehaun joins to share the real impact on Wisconsin agriculture — and why there’s no easy fix. In the second hour, Kristin and Todd break down the major media shake-up involving Netflix, Warner Brothers, Paramount, and the role of Trump’s FCC, before spotlighting Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Brenda Cassellius as Wisconsin’s Standout of the Year. They wrap with a Forward Thinking conversation alongside City Forward Collective’s Colleston Morgan about Milwaukee school closings, consolidations, and why community involvement matters now more than ever.
Kristin is joined by Matt Smith for the first hour of today’s show! They discuss Mandela Barnes’ bid for governor and his appearance on Up Front. Are candidates rushing to the center in an effort to appeal to the masses? Kristin and Matt also discuss the ACA and Glenn Grothman’s opposition to an extension. In the second half-hour, Kristin and Matt talk Buc-ee's, WISEye, and what's coming up on Up Front this week. In the second hour, Annex Wealth Management's Dave Spano joins the show to discuss Netflix's purchase of Warner and other economic news. Then, Kristin talks about the intersection between AI and third-party candidates.
Kristin and Steve are joinewd by Bill McCoshen and Joe Zepecki on today's Point Taken! The four discuss a wide range of topics, including redistricting, lessons learned from the Tennessee election, the latest Democratic candidate in Wisconsin's race for Governor, and much more! Steve and Kristin also discuss how you handle people with different opinions, and make some suggestions for paying it forward this holiday season.
Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey kick off the morning with Kristin’s chaotic car mishap — a parking-garage median, a cracked oil pan, and a whole lot of unsolicited listener advice. Then they shift to national headlines, including President Trump calling affordability concerns a “Democrat hoax” and the growing controversy around Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s alleged second strike on defenseless survivors. In City Stories, Urban Milwaukee’s Jeramey Jannene joins to discuss everything happening locally: Milwaukee’s stalled city flag redesign, redevelopment projects, the closure of Beans & Barley, more upcoming bridge work, and a push for a new Brewers ballpark district. They end with Pay It Forward, sharing small acts of kindness to brighten the season.
Broadcasting live from Sentry Foods in Delafield for the Kapco Kids2Kids Toy Drive, WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey blend politics, pop culture, and community for a festive, fast-moving show. They open with a look at the Tennessee special election, where a Democrat’s close loss in a deep-red district still had party members celebrating. Was it a moral victory or misplaced optimism? Then, they shift to Wisconsin’s 2026 governor’s race, continuing the conversation on Mandela Barnes entering the race and asking whether he can stand out in a crowded Democratic field — and whether he could potentially beat Republican frontrunner Tom Tiffany. At the store, Steve and Kristin chat with Sentry Foods co-owner Kerry Jeanpierre about how local grocers are navigating supply chain pressures, prices, and customer habits this holiday season — plus, the essential Wisconsin topic: pizza aisles. In the 11 a.m. hour, they’re joined by Dr. Ryan Martin, UW–Green Bay psychology professor and “The Anger Professor,” to unpack the Oxford Dictionary’s 2025 Word of the Year: “Ragebait.” They explore why outrage drives online engagement, what it says about our culture, and how to avoid getting trapped in digital anger. The show wraps with Ask Us Anything, holiday movie favorites, and a Pay It Forward segment on giving blood, starting conversations, and helping others during the season of giving. Politics, pizza, and perspective — all from the checkout lane at Sentry Foods.
A tight Democratic primary just got a frontrunner: Mandela Barnes enters the governor’s race. Plus, Wisconsin faces mounting pressure to finally pass Erin’s Law after revelations of concealed teacher misconduct. Founder Erin Merryn explains why prevention—not prosecution—should drive policy. Plus: the debate over taboo language resurfaces after high-profile podcasters resurrect slurs. Is policing vocabulary productive, or does euphemism only obscure reality? We close with Giving Tuesday by the numbers—and how Wisconsinites measure up in generosity.
After a snowy Wisconsin weekend, WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey start by catching up on the weekend snowfall before turning to a serious global story: U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordering a follow-up military strike that could constitute a war crime. Steve and Kristin break down the political and moral implications. Then, they shift to a study showing teenagers’ growing distrust of news media, exploring why younger generations tune out — and how AI tools like ChatGPT may be making misinformation worse. The duo looks abroad for answers, discussing Estonia’s innovative media-literacy curriculum as a possible model for U.S. schools. In the 11 a.m. hour, Annex Wealth Management CEO Dave Spano joins for the Monday Market Preview to unpack holiday spending trends, earnings expectations, and why the current economy might just be a “vibe-cession.” Finally, ESPN Milwaukee’s Alex Strouf stops by to share his generation’s views on the media, preview the Packers vs. Bears matchup, and confess which NFL coaches have fans swooning. The show closes with Pay It Forward, as Steve and Kristin share stories — from giving away scratch-off tickets to covering a stranger’s Walmart order — about small acts of kindness that make the season brighter.
On this post-thanksgiving show, WTMJ's Steve Scaffidi is joined by Joe Zepecki. The two discuss their thanksgiving days, and how their politics played a role. PLUS, the two share thoughts on the Thanksgiving Packers game, and the state of officiating in the NFL.
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi serves up a mix of politics and pie — in true Wisconsin fashion. Steve kicks off with reaction to U.S. Senator Mark Kelly and the Department of Justice investigation tied to Pete Hegseth’s criticism over a controversial ad. Steve explains why he believes Kelly’s ad was in poor taste but doesn’t warrant punishment, arguing that common sense — not party loyalty — should guide judgment. Then the show lightens up for the holiday season. After a holiday traditions feature by Debbie Lazaga, Steve opens the phone and text lines to ask listeners: -What’s your must-have Thanksgiving pie? -Will politics come up at your table this year? Callers Joe, Valerie, and Bob weigh in with their Thanksgiving philosophies — from “keep it peaceful” to “pass the pumpkin pie and the opinions.” In the 11 a.m. hour, Steve talks rising turkey prices, the surprising most popular pie in America, and more listener favorites. He closes with a few thoughts on a Dateline special filmed in Wisconsin and what’s coming up on his future shows and podcasts. Smart talk, good food, and a few laughs before the holiday — that’s Thanksgiving with Steve Scaffidi.
WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi sits down with two Wisconsin leaders shaping different corners of the state — Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Washington County Executive (and Republican gubernatorial candidate) Josh Schoemann — for candid, wide-ranging conversations ahead of Thanksgiving. Mayor Johnson joins first to react to the Milwaukee Common Council overriding his budget vetoes, and to discuss the city’s library hours, crime strategy, and Fire Chief Aaron Lipski’s call for more resources. Steve also asks about Milwaukee’s economic future — from potential data centers to the streetcar — and how the mayor plans to sell the city’s progress to both residents and travelers. Then, Steve talks with Josh Schoemann, who recently made headlines for his sharp remarks about the Morgan Geyser case and Governor Tony Evers’ leadership. They discuss the importance of responsible leadership, taxes, the state-city funding divide, and whether former President Donald Trump should influence Wisconsin’s next governor’s race. In the second hour, Steve turns from politics to people — asking listeners about their Thanksgiving travel plans, Friendsgiving traditions, and ideas to “pay it forward” this holiday season. Later, in a Forward Thinking segment, Colleston Morgan of City Forward Collective and Aaron Lippman of Carmen Schools discuss Milwaukee’s charter and public schools.
WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi kicks off Thanksgiving week with law, travel, and a little gratitude. He’s joined by WISN-TV political director Matt Smith, who shares highlights from his interview with Interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel on the trial of Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan — including talk of a potential plea deal and what comes next for the high-profile case. They also discuss the uncertain future of WisconsinEye, the state’s C-SPAN-style network, after losing key funding, and hear from CEO John Henkes about whether state support could save it. Next, Matt shares insights from Marquette Law School Poll director Charles Franklin on voter views of the economy, grocery prices, and inflation. Then, Steve turns to the skies: U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy wants Americans to travel better in his new PSA, “The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You.” Steve asks listeners if the call for courteous flying — dressing properly, helping others, and keeping kids calm — is long overdue. In the 11 a.m. hour, Annex Wealth Management’s Dave Spano joins for the Monday Market Preview, breaking down holiday retail sales, the Beige Book, interest rates, and year-end investing tips. Steve also shares what he’s thankful for this season, recaps his deer-camp weekend, and relives the Packers’ big win over the Vikings before closing with ideas on how to “pay it forward” every day.
It’s been an action-packed week, and WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey are joined in-studio by Republican strategist Bill McCoshen and Democratic strategist Joe Zepecki to unpack it all. They start with the headline lighting up Washington: President Donald Trump calling for the execution of those guilty of “sedition” after Democrats in Congress released a video telling military personnel it’s okay to disobey illegal orders. Then, the group turns to the Senate’s vote to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, debating what the release could mean for Trump, congressional Republicans, and anyone connected to the late financier. In the second hour, the panel dives into foreign policy and ethics as Trump hosts the Saudi crown prince at the White House, declaring the country a major non-NATO ally — despite the prince’s alleged involvement in the killing of an American journalist. Back home in Wisconsin, the focus shifts to the 2026 governor’s race and the ripple effect of Abbott Labs’ acquisition of Madison-based Exact Sciences. Could this open the door for Joel Brennan or even the CEO Kevin Conroy to run? After the heavy headlines, Bill, Joe, Steve, and Kristin keep tradition with “Say Something Nice” and “Grab Bags” — their signature bipartisan gratitude roundtable ahead of Thanksgiving. Later, author and farmer Brian Reisinger joins to talk soybeans, Wisconsin agriculture, and the deep ties between farmers and hunters as gun deer season kicks off.
As prices soar and wallets tighten, WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey kick off the day talking about where Americans are feeling it most — from the uncertainty of the cryptocurrency market to the rising cost of a McDonald’s meal. They break down what the latest crypto bubble burst could mean for investors, the financial sector, and everyday savers — then turn to something even more personal: the holiday season price squeeze. With airfares, décor, and grocery bills all climbing, Steve and Kristin ask listeners how inflation is changing their Thanksgiving and holiday traditions, reading messages from those adapting or cutting back this year. In the 11 a.m. hour, Urban Milwaukee’s Jeramey Jannene joins for a rundown of Milwaukee’s latest budget vetoes, bridge construction projects, and the debate over preserving or redeveloping city landmarks like the Miller High Life Theater and Panther Arena. They also discuss a potential new hotel for the convention district and if the city really needs it.
WTMJ hosts Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey start the day with the biggest headline in Washington: the U.S. Senate’s decision on releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files. They break down what happens next — from Speaker Mike Johnson’s response to the political fallout for both parties — and debate how much transparency Americans will actually get once the documents are made public. Then it’s time for something a little lighter — or dumber. In a segment Steve calls “A Theory of Dumb,” they unpack a new study suggesting that people are actually becoming less intelligent in certain categories. Are we really getting dumber, or just more distracted? The conversation turns to social media, radio, and modern attention spans, and the hosts ask: are we part of the problem? In the 11 a.m. hour, the focus shifts to politics and power: a Texas judge orders redistricting maps to be reversed, lawsuits emerge in California, and President Trump sparks outrage by calling a female reporter “Piggy” aboard Air Force One. Steve and Kristin explore the state of civility, gender, and respect in the modern media landscape. They wrap up with Ask Us Anything, answering listener questions about Trump, Saudi Arabia, gold in the White House, and even first-time parenting. Smart talk, dumb theories, and everything in between — it’s another lively morning on Point Taken.
New headphones, fresh perspective — WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey open the day asking one big question: is the country actually beginning to heal? After months of division and political tension, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene is making headlines with what some are calling an “apology tour,” expressing regret for her past rhetoric after seeing the same behavior from President Donald Trump. Steve and Kristin ask whether this signals a national softening — especially following the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. Later, they’re joined by Professor Susan Yackee, director of the La Follette School of Public Affairs at UW–Madison, to talk about teaching civil dialogue and encouraging students (and citizens) to engage across political lines. Her challenge to listeners: to have curiosity. In the second hour, Steve and Kristin switch gears to Wisconsin politics — the crowded Democratic primary for governor and the debate over legalizing online sports betting. Plus, Kristin’s story about her friend’s inspiring nonprofit MS Run the US and a few laughs as Steve leaves her to close out the show solo.
WTMJ hosts Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey kick off the week with politics, markets, and a few unexpected stories from Wisconsin and beyond. They’re joined first by WISN-TV political reporter Matt Smith to unpack his new interviews with Governor Tony Evers and Congressman Tom Tiffany. The conversation covers sports betting laws, the Department of Public Instruction’s grooming-claims controversy, and the debate over extending Obamacare subsidies. Then it’s time to Get Biced — Milwaukee Journal Sentinel watchdog Dan Bice joins in-studio to break down former Attorney General Brad Schimel’s appointment as interim U.S. Attorney and the latest developments surrounding Judge Hannah Dugan’s alleged role in an ICE raid incident at the Milwaukee County Courthouse. In the 11 a.m. hour, Annex Wealth Management’s Dave Spano calls in for the Monday Market Preview, covering AI-driven tech stocks, beef prices, and inflation. Steve shares his “Manic Monday” story — complete with an unexpected sting — before he and Kristin return to national headlines: President Trump’s reversal on releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files, and a new Gallup poll showing that many Millennial and Gen Z women would consider leaving the U.S. if they could.
WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey are finally reunited — and they’re making up for lost time. The duo dives into news making national and local waves: reports that President Trump may send out new stimulus checks to Americans earning under $100,000, and the renewed controversy around the long-awaited Jeffrey Epstein files, including Megyn Kelly’s eyebrow-raising claim about Epstein’s crimes. In the 11 a.m. hour, Steve and Kristin pivot to faith and community, reacting to Catholic bishops voicing concern over mass deportations and how they’re affecting schools, hospitals, and congregations nationwide. They also touch on redistricting, Jason Kelce’s Wisconsin moment, and what it says about civic and cultural life in the Midwest. Finally, they wrap up the week with potential new segment, “Let’s Get Talking,” where they ask each other delightfully random questions — from what food they've never eaten to who they’d haunt people as ghosts.