Oklahoma Memo

Oklahoma Democrats Push “Take BAC Congress” Movement | Troy Green & John Croisant

Sat, 16 May 2026 03:26:17 +0000

Ryan Welton is joined by Oklahoma Democratic candidates Troy Green and John Croisant for a wide-ranging political conversation focused on the growing “Take BAC Congress” coalition.

The group is advocating for reforms, including congressional term limits, a ban on stock trading by lawmakers, limits on lobbying influence, and Supreme Court ethics reform.

The discussion also covers:

Donald Trump’s China trip and foreign policy concerns
Congressional wealth and insider stock trading
Gerrymandering and voting representation
Economic struggles facing working-class Americans
Why more Democrats are running in Oklahoma
Troy Green’s personal story growing up in foster care and homelessness
Campaign events happening across Oklahoma this weekend

Learn more:

Trump’s China Trip | Latest on Cuba, Taiwan | AOC for President and the rise of Justin Pearson

Fri, 15 May 2026 21:19:10 +0000

Ryan Welton and Grant Hermes unpack the week that was in politics.

This episode covers:

President Trump’s visit to China
Taiwan and growing military concerns
Why Cuba is becoming a major Trump focus
New reporting about Trump’s health and behavior
Whether AOC could become president
Tennessee’s escalating redistricting battle
The bizarre “American blue” reflecting pool project in Washington
A proven trick to bring plants back to life

Grant also discusses his recent interview with Nobel Prize-winning psychiatrist Dr. Henry Abraham and explains why some medical experts are sounding alarms about the president’s cognitive condition.

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo, your daily local news recap at https://www.oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

And follow Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes on Substack at https://mimsnewspod.substack.com and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod

Bedlam Buds: Cowgirls Softball Rolling Into Postseason

Fri, 15 May 2026 03:30:19 +0000

On this episode of Bedlam Buds, Ryan Welton and Jeremy Cook break down Oklahoma State softball’s Big 12 Tournament run and preview the Cowgirls’ NCAA Regional matchup against Stanford, Eastern Illinois and Princeton.

The guys discuss:

Ruby Maylen's dominance and why she changes everything for OSU
Whether the Cowgirls are built for a deep postseason run
The possibility of a Bedlam-style showdown with Jordy Frahm (nee Bahl) and Nebraska in a Super Regional

They also dive into Oklahoma State baseball after the Cowboys took a series on the road against Arizona State and discuss what it means heading into the final stretch of the season.

Then it’s time for the lightning round:

Why are the Oklahoma City Thunder suddenly so hated nationally?
Is Adrian Peterson the OU's answer to Barry Sanders?
Barry Sanders vs everybody
Favorite songs from The Police
Why chemistry matters in sports dynasties

Plus plenty of classic Bedlam Buds banter along the way.

Subscribe for weekly Oklahoma sports talk covering OSU, OU, the Thunder, softball, baseball, football and more.

The Long View | Sooners softball postseason begins, Thunder disrespect & Oklahoma politics

Fri, 15 May 2026 03:21:13 +0000

On this episode of The Long View, Ryan Welton and Clay Horning break down the biggest questions surrounding Oklahoma Sooners softball entering the NCAA Tournament — especially the ongoing uncertainty in the pitching circle.

The guys discuss:

Why OU’s offense may still be good enough to carry a postseason run
Whether Audrey Lowry should become the Sooners’ unquestioned ace
Dangerous potential matchups with Oregon, Mississippi State and Texas Tech
Why this OU softball team feels a little like the Billy Tubbs era: score a ton and survive the chaos
Concerns surrounding Oklahoma Sooners baseball after another SEC series loss
Why the Oklahoma City Thunder continue to be underrated nationally despite elite team basketball
NHL playoff chatter, Premier League fandom and Ryan’s ongoing obsession with Tottenham Hotspur F.C.
A deep discussion on Oklahoma politics, Gov. Kevin Stitt, and the Sarah Polston controversy
Ethics, leadership and why public trust feels more fragile than ever

It’s sports, culture, media and politics — all from the perspective of two longtime Oklahoma journalists who’ve seen just about everything.

Like, subscribe and join the conversation.

Is This A War, Or What? | Conversation With Grant Hermes

Sat, 09 May 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Ryan Welton and Grant Hermes return for another deep-dive conversation covering some of the biggest political and economic stories in America right now.

This episode explores:

Whether the Iran conflict is truly over
Why oil and gas prices could continue rising
The legal and constitutional questions surrounding U.S. military operations
The White House ballroom controversy and DHS expansion
Concerns about ICE leadership and federal infrastructure
The massive Canvas cyberattack affecting schools nationwide
Why cybersecurity vulnerabilities are becoming more dangerous
The state of the Democratic Party ahead of the midterms
Grant Herms’ new investigative reporting into extremist connections tied to figures around the White House

Grant also explains how weakening federal cybersecurity oversight could leave schools, agencies and infrastructure increasingly exposed to attacks.

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo: https://www.oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

Read Grant Hermes: https://mimsnewspod.substack.com

Why Oklahoma Keeps Ranking Last in Education | Featuring John Croisant and Craig McVay

Sat, 09 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Why does Oklahoma continue to rank near the bottom nationally in education outcomes — and what would it actually take to fix it?

In this episode of the Oklahoma Memo Podcast, Ryan Welton is joined by Democratic congressional candidate John Croisant and Democratic candidate for state superintendent Craig McVay for a wide-ranging discussion about the state of public education in Oklahoma.

The conversation explores:

Federal education funding and proposed Department of Education cuts
Oklahoma’s widening education investment gap
Teacher pay and retention challenges
Emergency-certified teachers and classroom realities
The role of vouchers and public school funding
Why class size matters
The hidden emotional and physical demands of teaching
Teacher Appreciation Week memories and reflections

Craig McVay also shares insights from decades in education leadership, including what new teachers misunderstand most about classroom management and why many educators leave after their first year.

Meanwhile, John Croisant discusses how education investment directly impacts Oklahoma’s workforce, economy and long-term prosperity.

This is a passionate, personal and policy-heavy conversation about one of the most important issues facing Oklahoma today.

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo:

https://www.oklahomamemo.com

Follow the guests:

John Croisant: https://www.croisantforcongress.com
Craig McVay: https://www.craigforkids.com

Ceasefire, chaos, and the real (literal) costs of uncertainty

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:00:00 +0000

This week, Ryan Welton and Grant Hermes (of "Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes") unpack a fast-moving and complicated news cycle.

Topics include:

The current status of the Iran ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz disruption
Why gas prices are likely to rise in the coming weeks
The broader economic impact of supply chain slowdowns
Internal instability within the White House
High-profile resignations and leadership concerns
The indictment of the Southern Poverty Law Center and what it actually means

This episode connects global events to real-world consequences — especially for Americans feeling the effects at the pump and beyond.

The fight over fairness in Oklahoma high school sports (with Hannah Whitten)

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000

A behind-the-scenes look at how eligibility decisions are made in Oklahoma high school sports — and why one attorney says the system needs reform.

Oklahoma Memo founder and curator Ryan Welton sits down with Hannah Whitten to break down a recent case involving student transfers, shifting rules, and missed playing time. The conversation expands into bigger questions about due process, fairness, and access for student athletes across the state.

What We Talk About

A real case involving student athletes transferring schools in rural Oklahoma
How Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association rules were applied — and then changed
Why some students lost practices and games
Concerns about due process in OSSAA hearings
The role of evidence (and what happens when it’s not considered)
Why this issue goes beyond sports (music, debate, activities)
The financial reality: who can move districts — and who can’t
What reform could look like
Advice for parents navigating eligibility issues

Key Takeaways

Eligibility rulings can have real consequences — including lost opportunities and exposure
OSSAA decisions aren’t always handled with the same structure as courts
Families with more resources often have more flexibility
Advocacy matters — parents who push the system tend to get better outcomes
There is growing pressure for reform, but change hasn’t fully materialized

Oklahoma politics this week: Kevin Hern’s Senate bid, Mullin’s future and the Iran oil threat

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 18:30:00 +0000

Ryan Welton is joined by Grant Hermes for a wide-ranging conversation on the week’s biggest political developments.

They discuss Kevin Hern’s Senate bid and why it could trigger major consequences not just in Oklahoma, but in the U.S. House. They also look at Gov. Kevin Stitt’s possible ambitions, the uncertainty around Markwayne Mullin’s future, and the larger political calculations underway.

The second half of the conversation turns to the Senate’s role in confirming cabinet officials, how that process really works, and why the escalating Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruption could send shockwaves through oil markets and beyond.

Topics include:

Kevin Hern’s path to the U.S. Senate
What Gov. Kevin Stitt may be thinking politically
Why Markwayne Mullin’s future matters
How cabinet confirmations actually work
Trump, donor access and power politics
Iran, the Strait of Hormuz and the oil shock threat
What this all could mean for Oklahoma

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo: oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

Subscribe to Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod

A Father’s Fight: The Story Behind Oklahoma’s “Leo’s Law”

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:30:00 +0000

A heartbreaking tragedy is now driving a push for legislative change in Oklahoma.

In this episode of the Oklahoma Memo Podcast, Ryan Welton speaks with Jacob Towe, whose young son Leo died from fentanyl poisoning.

After learning the true cause of Leo’s death, Towe began pushing for a new law that would require the Oklahoma Department of Human Services to test parents for fentanyl before reunifying children with them.

The proposed legislation, known as “Leo’s Law,” would simply add fentanyl to the panel of drugs already tested during child welfare investigations.

Towe shares:

• The story of his son Leo

• How he discovered fentanyl poisoning caused Leo’s death

• Why he believes the tragedy could have been prevented

• The grassroots effort to pass Leo’s Law

• Why other states — and Congress — are watching Oklahoma

Towe says if the law saves even one child, the effort will be worth it.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Leo’s Law Facebook group

• Families Supporting Families in Oklahoma

Oklahoma historian, educator warns 'quick fixes' won’t solve the reading crisis

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 22:30:00 +0000

Improving reading outcomes has become a major policy focus in Oklahoma.

But what actually helps children learn to read?

In this episode of the Oklahoma Memo Podcast, Ryan Welton talks with longtime Oklahoma educator and historian John Thompson about the literacy debate, including the widely discussed “Mississippi Miracle.”

Thompson explains why some tutoring programs fail, how high-dosage tutoring works, and why background knowledge and classroom culture play a critical role in literacy development.

He also raises concerns about the growing push toward AI-based tutoring systems and what that could mean for the future of public education.

Topics covered

• The “Mississippi Miracle” reading debate

• What research says about tutoring programs

• High-dosage tutoring explained

• Why test pressure can undermine reading comprehension

• The role of knowledge and curriculum in literacy

• Concerns about AI tutoring tools

• Lessons from decades in Oklahoma classrooms

Leave this episode a 5-star review and help the Oklahoma Memo podcast get discovered easier!

Investment or austerity? Oklahoma’s fork in the road | with Rep. Melissa Provenzano and John Croisant

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 23:30:00 +0000

This week on the Oklahoma Memo Podcast:

Ryan Welton is joined by Rep. Melissa Provenzano (D–Tulsa) and congressional candidate John Croisant for a wide-ranging discussion on Oklahoma’s fiscal future.

Topics include:

Education

Mississippi’s reading model vs. Oklahoma’s funding history
Third-grade retention debate
Teacher pay, emergency certifications and workforce pipeline
Private school tax credits vs. public investment

Healthcare

Federal Medicaid reductions and SoonerCare implications
Insurance premium spikes
AI-based claim denials

Affordability

Dynamic grocery pricing
Insurance oversight
Minimum wage proposals

Economic Development

Data centers and AI expansion
Energy and water usage concerns
Workforce readiness and corporate relocation decisions

Connect with:

Rep. Melissa Provenzano — melissa.provenzano@okhouse.gov

John Croisant — croisantforcongress.com

Subscribe to the Oklahoma Memo newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com/subscribe.

The State of the Union’s biggest story: What President Trump didn’t say

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Trump’s address was historic for its length — but the political tells were in the omissions. Ryan Welton is joined by national journalist and podcaster Grant Hermes (Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes) to break down State of the Union week, the messaging strategy behind what got left out, and what it could signal heading into the midterms.

Then, the conversation turns to Oklahoma: Gov. Kevin Stitt’s NPR interview and why his “return to integrity” tone — plus a states’ rights framing — sounds like he’s testing a national lane.

In this episode

Why Trump barely touched ICE — despite immigration enforcement being central to the administration
What it means that the “One Big Beautiful Bill” didn’t get a direct mention
The “SAVE America Act” and the bigger elections-power fight behind it
How courts, procedure, and politics collide if executive actions push too far
Kevin Stitt’s NPR interview: states’ rights, immigration tone, and 2028 vibes

Links

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo: oklahomamemo.com/subscribe
Grant Hermes / Make It Make Sense:

(https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod)

(https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/)

Follow / Support

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Oklahoma Memo Newscast | February 25, 2026

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the first Oklahoma Memo Newscast.

Today’s top story:

Senate Republican leadership unveils a $254 million education plan that would raise teacher pay and fund literacy initiatives by capping additional contributions to Oklahoma’s teacher retirement system.

Teachers push back.

Plus:

• Rob Miller withdraws from state superintendent race

• Markwayne Mullin confronts Al Green at State of the Union

• Severe weather risk developing for next week

• OU baseball walk-off win

• OSBI investigating Harmon County Sheriff’s Office

• Bryan County ranchers aid Beaver County wildfire victims

Subscribe to the Oklahoma Memo newsletter for daily curated reporting from across the state. You can do so at OklahomaMemo.com/subscribe

Mustang’s 122 suspensions, Epstein shockwaves, and Iran escalation fears — explained

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 02:15:00 +0000

Ryan Welton is joined by Grant Hermes (Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes) for a wide-ranging conversation that connects a local Oklahoma education controversy to larger questions about power, institutional trust, and international pressure.

They discuss Mustang Public Schools suspending 122 students after a Feb. 5 walkout, how lawsuits and discovery could reveal more behind the scenes, the mechanics of protest movements, and why Grant is watching signs of possible escalation involving Iran. They also touch on international developments connected to the Epstein files — and why weekends, especially Fridays, can be pivotal for breaking news.

Key topics:

Mustang’s 122 suspensions after the Feb. 5 walkout
Student protest protections and the disruption standard
“Unexcused absence” vs. viewpoint discipline — and why that distinction matters
What discovery could reveal if litigation happens
Protest spillover: how crackdowns can multiply movements
International pressure around the Epstein files and credibility questions
Iran escalation signals + coalition dynamics
Media literacy: the Friday news dump and why “alerts” matter

Weekly guest: Grant Hermes — Make It Make Sense:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod

Substack: https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/

Subscribe: Oklahoma Memo (daily newsletter) — OklahomaMemo.com/subscribe

Senate Bill 1421 explained with Brandy Torres-DeMark

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Senate Bill 1421 advanced out of committee this week with unanimous support — but what does it (or could it if it becomes law) actually change?

Ryan Welton sits down with Brandy Torres-DeMark, founder of the Our Kids Deserve Better Coalition, to break down the bill’s purpose and process.

In this episode:

• What SB 1421 would codify into law

• Why the bill has no fiscal impact

• How trauma-informed standards could reduce long-term costs

• What bipartisan cooperation looks like behind the scenes

• Concerns about “more training” in an already overwhelmed system

• What happens next on the Senate floor

Brandy also discusses the Great American Reset Experiment, a nonpartisan effort encouraging Americans to commit to voting through 2030.

📩 Questions? Email news@oklahomamemo.com

⭐ Leave a five-star review to help more Oklahomans find this conversation.

The AI issue rural voters fear most (Why that matters in 2026) | Oklahoma Memo Podcast

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 19:00:00 +0000

Adrianne Marsh (Altum Insight) joins the show to unpack lessons from presidential-era campaigning, why Barack Obama 2008 was a once-in-a-generation “unicorn,” and what his team’s qualitative research is revealing right now: in rural communities, AI is landing as a major trust threat — tied to privacy, kids’ futures, community values, and a broader sense of being talked down to rather than listened to.

We also get into:

Accountability systems that actually work (even down to volunteers)
Why authenticity and message discipline scale
How corporate research builds narratives that move behavior (and why politics often doesn’t)
The “ballot initiative paradox”: progressive issues pass… until there’s a party label attached
Why rebuilding trust starts with listening, not persuasion

If you enjoy this episode, please leave it a 5-star review. This helps the podcast to grow because it primes the algorithm. Many thanks to you in advance!

Federal power vs. federalism: Gov. Kevin Stitt’s moment on the national stage | Oklahoma Memo Podcast

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 20:30:00 +0000

This week: Ryan Welton sits down with Grant Hermes (Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes) to unpack a fast-moving national story with Oklahoma fingerprints — and the bigger questions it raises about federal power, state authority, and civil liberties.

What we cover

Why Gov. Kevin Stitt’s role as chair of the National Governors Association matters
The White House meeting controversy and why Stitt publicly pushed back
The “governors are different” dynamic — why red and blue governors sometimes close ranks
Federalism in plain English: who controls what — and why it’s flaring up again
The new masking debate: protesters, legislation, and why identification rules aren’t applied evenly
A discussion of voting-law proposals and what critics argue are the real downstream effects

Mentioned in the episode

Grant’s newsletter: Things You Forgot From Civics Class
Grant’s new newsletter: Make It Make Nonsense
The Make It Make Sense podcast (search: “MIMSpod”)

Follow + subscribe

Oklahoma Memo newsletter: oklahomamemo.com/subscribe
Grant Herms: Make It Make Sense (podcast / YouTube / Substack)
https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod

Hand up, not handout: The Oklahoma organization helping 30 million people globally

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

World Neighbors began with a sermon at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City 75 years ago. Today, it operates in 14 countries and has helped nearly 30 million people.

In this episode of Oklahoma Memo, Ryan Welton talks with World Neighbors President & CEO Dr. Kate Schechter about:

The World War II experience that inspired founder Dr. John L. Peters
Why World Neighbors refuses in-kind donations and cash handouts
How savings-and-credit groups work in remote villages without banks
What “graduating” 49 communities actually means
How World Neighbors works with governments to scale impact
A powerful story from Nepal about breaking caste barriers
The upcoming 75th anniversary symposium at Oklahoma City University

World Neighbors operates on a $3.5 million budget funded primarily by private individuals and family foundations. It remains non-partisan and focused on long-term, sustainable development.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.wn.or g

🔗 Sign up for the 75th anniversary symposium

📰 Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo daily newsletter: https://oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

If you enjoyed the episode, leave a five-star review. It helps neighbors find neighbors.

NFL playoff picks: Who’s built for January? | Bedlam Buds

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

The NFL playoffs are here, and Bedlam Buds is back with a full Wild Card preview.

Ryan Welton and Jeremy debate every matchup, from Rams–Panthers to Texans–Steelers, weighing quarterback experience, coaching, injuries, weather, and playoff history. Plus: Super Bowl predictions, rooting interests, and why some teams feel scarier than their seed.

Timestamps (approximate):

Rams vs Panthers — experience wins
Packers vs Bears — snow, youth, and pressure
Bills vs Jaguars — best game of the weekend?
Eagles vs 49ers — injuries matter
Patriots vs Chargers — coaching chess match
Texans vs Steelers — defense travels
Super Bowl predictions

Subscribe, rate, and leave a review — and by all means, argue with us online.

Minneapolis and ICE: The moment America hit its limit (with Grant Hermes)

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This week’s Friday conversation with journalist/podcaster Grant Hermes (“Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes”) focuses on Minneapolis and the ICE shooting that has ignited protests and political fallout. We talk about who controls the investigation, why transparency gaps fuel distrust, how enforcement tactics can escalate risk, and what this moment could mean heading into the 2026 midterms. We also zoom out to foreign-policy escalation signals — including Greenland — and why “chaos on multiple fronts” might be the actual strategy.

What we cover

Why the investigation process itself has become a credibility battle
The implications of state/local investigators saying they’ve been cut out
Unmarked vehicles, unclear identification, and why that escalates fear fast
The politics of 2026 vs. 2028 — and who can actually harness public anger
The “snowball” moment: how small sparks can become historic flashpoints
Door-to-door operations and why volatile encounters may rise
Greenland/Venezuela/Mexico: what escalation talk signals abroad
A bigger theme: trust collapse and polarization hardening into “sides”

Calls to action

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo: OklahomaMemo.com/subscribe
Follow Grant Hermes / MIMS Pod: Substack | YouTube
If you found this useful: leave a 5-star review and share the episode

Why Oklahoma State might be 2026's portal turnaround team | Bedlam Buds

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 00:15:00 +0000

On this episode of Bedlam Buds, Ryan and Jeremy break down one of the biggest transfer-portal storylines in the country: Oklahoma State Cowboys landing the North Texas “triplets”—quarterback Drew Mestemaker, wide receiver Wyatt Young, and running back Caleb Hawkins (from Shawnee).

Jeremy called it before it happened, and now that all three are officially headed to Stillwater, we unpack why this isn’t just a splashy portal moment, but a potential Indiana-like moment.

We cover:

• Why these weren’t just good transfers—but elite, nationally ranked portal players

• How familiarity with the offensive system accelerates improvement on Day 1

• Why following their coach says a lot about leadership and development

• What the numbers actually say (and why they matter)

• Why Oklahoma State may be the Big 12’s most overlooked turnaround candidate

Could Eric Morris turn Oklahoma State around overnight?

🎧 Subscribe to Bedlam Buds wherever you get your podcasts

📺 Full episode available on YouTube

OSU goes all-in: QB Hejny exits, Mestemaker coming to Stillwater?

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:45:00 +0000

The Oklahoma State Cowboys’ quarterback room is turning over fast. With Hauss Hejny and Zane Flores entering the portal, all signs point to a major NIL-backed move for North Texas QB Drew Mestemaker — possibly with skill players coming with him.

Jeremy and Ryan break down what this means for Eric Morris, and this new era of Oklahoma State football.

In this episode:

• Oklahoma State’s quarterback room clearing as portal season opens

• Why Hauss Hejny’s departure matters more than it looks on paper

• Signs OSU is preparing for a major NIL quarterback addition

• The possibility of a ready-made North Texas offensive package

• Risks and rewards of importing a full offensive core at once

• What this move signals about OSU’s urgency to reset the program

If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a 5-star review so that the algorithm will connect us with more listeners. (Thank you in advance!)

Bedlam Buds | Miami the villain, Texas Tech on the rise, and Georgia means business

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

The playoff reset is here, and Bedlam Buds is back to break down what actually matters.

Ryan and Jeremy run through every College Football Playoff matchup with real analysis, gut instincts, and just enough nonsense to keep it fun. From Miami’s swagger to Texas Tech’s slow-burn rise, Alabama’s experience edge, and Georgia’s inevitable march — it’s all on the table.

Also discussed:

Why the Pop-Tart Bowl is America’s true championship
What bowl game marketing gets right
And how Notre Dame still finds a way into the conversation

Leave us a 5-star review if you enjoy smart football talk without pretending we’re Vegas sharps.

Oklahoma News (Dec. 29, 2025) | Wildfire danger, delayed audits and more

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Cold mornings, dry conditions, and rising fire danger across Oklahoma start today’s Oklahoma Memo.

Also:

Why high-profile Oklahoma audits are still unfinished
What staffing and funding cuts inside the State Auditor’s office mean for accountability
A Tulsa Flyer report showing how uninsured care quietly costs hospitals—and consumers
A quick national headlines check
Your Oklahoma Rundown, plus a Thunder win recap

Oklahoma Memo is your daily, efficient guide to the stories shaping Oklahoma—delivered every weekday morning.

Subscribe to the newsletter at oklahomamemo.com/subscribe.

Why the Spurs are Oklahoma City’s biggest problem right now | Bedlam Buds

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma City’s Christmas Day loss wasn’t about effort, coaching, or roster holes — it was about matchups.

Ryan and Jeremy break down why the San Antonio Spurs have quietly become the Thunder’s toughest opponent:

Why San Antonio’s balanced scoring matters more than star power
How veteran pieces and young development are clicking at the same time
Why Oklahoma City doesn’t need to “fix” anything
The playoff chess game OKC may need to play to avoid an early Spurs matchup
Why patience — not panic — is the correct response

A grounded Thunder conversation that looks ahead instead of overreacting.

⭐ Enjoying Bedlam Buds? A 5-star review helps more than you know.

Bedlam Buds | Michigan hires Kyle Whittingham, but is he a good match for that school?

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000

Michigan football made its most consequential decision in years, hiring longtime Utah coach Kyle Whittingham in a move that signals a sharp break from the chaos of the Jim Harbaugh–Sherrone Moore era.

Ryan and Jeremy unpack:

Why Whittingham is the opposite of Michigan’s recent leadership
How his reputation for discipline and stability fits a program under scrutiny
The pressure this puts on Michigan’s athletic department
Why this move could slow — or stop — Michigan’s transfer portal bleeding
What it means for the Big Ten power balance moving forward

A breaking-news conversation with national implications — even if you don’t wear maize and blue.

⭐ If you enjoy the show, leave a 5-star review — it helps more than you think.

Oklahoma news (Dec. 26, 2025) | Flu shot reaction, Broken Arrow lesson about homelessness — and the Thunder struggle

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 17:00:00 +0000

The day after Christmas is usually slow — but that doesn’t mean it’s empty.

In this episode, I talk candidly about my flu shot reaction (for the third year in a row), why I still believe the vaccine matters, and what this flu season is revealing about risk and prevention.

Then we focus on the standout Oklahoma story of the day from Oklahoma Watch: a Broken Arrow high school class teaching students that homelessness is not a personal failure — and that most people are only one event away from crisis.

Also in the rundown:

Weekend events in Tulsa
Powerball’s $1.8B winner
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Spurs struggles
Developing national and weather news

If you value calm, fact-based local news — this one’s for you.

⭐ Leave a 5-star review if this helps you stay informed.

Oklahoma news (Dec. 24, 2025) | ICE detentions, OU turmoil and crazy warm weather

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

It’s Christmas Eve in Oklahoma — with temperatures pushing the upper 70s and a news cycle that refuses to slow down.

In today’s episode of Oklahoma Memo, Ryan Welton walks through the most important stories from across the state, including:

An in-depth investigation into immigrants being held without bail in Oklahoma ICE facilities
How local jails are increasingly tied into federal deportation efforts
A practical list of Tulsa restaurants open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
A Festivus-themed episode of Bedlam Buds airing some long-simmering grievances
New national reporting tied to Jeffrey Epstein and the Department of Justice
A federal civil lawsuit connected to the Jesse Butler sexual assault case in Stillwater
Graduate students at the University of Oklahoma condemning the removal of an instructor in a grading dispute

Oklahoma Memo is a daily local news recap designed to keep you informed — quickly.

⭐ If you enjoy the show, please leave a 5-star review. It helps others find it.

Festivus for the rest of us: Airing of the grievances | Bedlam Buds

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Festivus is here — and Ryan and Jeremy are airing their grievances.

In this special holiday edition of Bedlam Buds, the guys channel Frank Costanza and unload on everything that drives them crazy this time of year (and all year long).

From sports spoilers and bad drivers to daylight saving time, grammar policing, loud eaters, and people who refuse to let others enjoy things — nothing is safe.

This episode is funny, honest, slightly unhinged, and extremely relatable.

In this episode:

Why spoiling games ruins the entire sports experience
ESPN crawls, notifications, and the on-demand sports world
The truth about daylight-saving time
Driving too slow is just as dangerous as speeding
Grammar “Nazis” vs. people who actually know how to write
Misophonia and loud eaters
Don’t yuck someone else’s yum
NASCAR as a science experiment
Why concerts start too late for adults

🎧 If you enjoy the episode, please leave a 5-star review — it helps others find the show.

An airing of the grievances (Bedlam Buds Festivus special)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Festivus is here — and Ryan and Jeremy are airing their grievances.

In this special holiday edition of Bedlam Buds, the guys channel Frank Costanza and unload on everything that drives them crazy this time of year (and all year long).

From sports spoilers and bad drivers to daylight saving time, grammar policing, loud eaters, and people who refuse to let others enjoy things — nothing is safe.

This episode is funny, honest, slightly unhinged, and extremely relatable.

In this episode:

Why spoiling games ruins the entire sports experience
ESPN crawls, notifications, and the on-demand sports world
The truth about daylight saving time
Driving too slow is just as dangerous as speeding
Grammar “Nazis” vs. people who actually know how to write
Misophonia and loud eaters
Don’t yuck someone else’s yum
NASCAR as a science experiment
Why concerts start too late for adults

🎧 If you enjoy the episode, please leave a 5-star review — it helps others find the show.

Oklahoma news (Dec. 23, 2025) | Fractured GOP concerned about open primaries, lawmakers looking to 'Mississippi Miracle'

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma feels like spring — but the politics are getting hot as we head toward 2026.

In today’s Oklahoma Memo podcast, Ryan walks through the stories shaping conversations across the state:

Fire danger concerns as temperatures approach record highs
Why the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus fears open primaries — and what that means for moderates
A proposal inspired by Mississippi’s dramatic literacy turnaround
A deep-dive conversation with investigative reporter J.C. Hallman on allegations against State Farm and why they matter to Oklahoma homeowners

📬 Subscribe to the daily Oklahoma Memo newsletter: https://oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

⭐ Five-star reviews help this get get found by other listeners. Thank YOU for listening.

Inside the State Farm investigation with Oklahoma Watch’s J.C. Hallman

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 03:30:00 +0000

An Oklahoma insurance dispute has evolved into a high-stakes legal and political fight.

Ryan Welton is joined by J.C. Hallman of Oklahoma Watch to walk through his reporting on State Farm, including allegations that the company systematically reduced or denied hail damage claims.

The conversation covers:

How the investigation began
What the documents suggest — and why access matters
Why Oklahoma’s attorney general is now involved
The role of civil racketeering claims
How similar cases have played out in other states
Why this story could take years to fully resolve

Hallman also shares how he approaches investigative reporting, how journalists find “the angle,” and why some of the most consequential stories are the hardest to pursue.

Oklahoma news (Dec. 22, 2025) | A warm week ahead, a leaner 2026 budget, and how a pause in food assistance led to more evictions

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

This episode of Oklahoma Memo looks ahead to what may be the most consequential week before Christmas — both for Oklahoma’s weather and its finances.

Inside this episode:

• Why near-80° December temperatures raise wildfire concerns statewide

• The key takeaways from Oklahoma’s latest revenue forecast

• Gov. Kevin Stitt’s push for flat agency budgets despite rising costs

• How the end of food assistance led to eviction filings within days

• A preview of national political developments worth watching

Plus, a rundown of local reporting worth your time — from housing insecurity to military pay raises and standout Oklahoma schools.

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo at oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

What Susie Wiles’ words revealed about President Trump | Oklahoma Memo & Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Late-breaking developments reshaped this week’s in-person Oklahoma Memo conversation between Ryan Welton and Grant Hermes, host of Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes.

After their Friday discussion wrapped, a partial release of the Epstein files revealed that the full disclosure ordered by law has still not occurred — raising fresh questions about transparency and accountability.

The conversation also dives into a major Vanity Fair profile by Chris Whipple, based on 11 months of interviews with Susie Wiles. What does her account reveal about how Donald Trump governs — and how he sees the presidency?

Ryan and Grant also analyze the president’s mid-week address, a speech that was unusually fast-paced and loud. It was as if he didn't want to be there, giving that address. From there, they turn to a busy Thursday: the renaming of the Kennedy Center, the reclassification of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, and the civic foundations behind birthright citizenship — a topic Grant recently explored in depth.

Topics Covered

Partial release of Epstein files — and what’s still missing
What Susie Wiles’ words reveal about Trump’s leadership style
Reading presidential speeches beyond the transcript
Marijuana rescheduling and symbolic vs. substantive policy
The civics of birthright citizenship, revisited

Follow & Subscribe

Follow Grant: @MIMSnewspod
Read his Substack: https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/
Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo: https://oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

Oklahoma's season ends in 34–24 loss to Alabama | Bedlam Buds

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0000

Oklahoma jumped out to a 17–0 lead. Alabama adjusted. The Sooners never recovered.

In this emergency episode of Bedlam Buds, Ryan and Jeremy react to Oklahoma’s 34–24 loss to Alabama and break down what changed after the opening quarter.

Topics include:

• How Alabama flipped the game after a slow start

• Oklahoma’s failure to force turnovers

• Offensive struggles after scripted drives ended

• Special teams mistakes and missed chances

• Quarterback play and the NIL-era offseason questions ahead

• What this loss means for Brent Venables moving forward

• Alabama’s outlook in the next round of the playoff

A season recap, a reality check, and a look at what comes next.

Oklahoma News Update: December 19, 2025

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Football night in Oklahoma! As the Sooners gear up to take on Alabama, Ryan Welton breaks down the biggest state and national headlines heading into the weekend — from the partial release of the Epstein files to a developing State Farm lawsuit led by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond.

In this episode:

DOJ releases portions of the Epstein files — and why some remain sealed (via Politico).
AG Drummond vs. State Farm — and the implications of Oklahoma’s RICO laws (Oklahoma Watch, J.C. Holman).
Drummond’s latest legal opinion puts him at odds with Governor Kevin Stitt over tribal sovereignty and wildlife law (KOSU, Graycen Wheeler).
Tragic plane crash claims the life of NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family.
President Trump’s new executive order reclassifying marijuana as Schedule III — what it means for Oklahoma.
TikTok’s U.S. sale reportedly finalized — major American investors now involved.
Remembering two Deer Creek High School students killed in a tragic crash.
Local stories you might’ve missed: AI regulation debates, Guardian 2.0 returns, neighborhood disputes, and the weekend rundown in Tulsa.

Subscribe & Support: Stay informed, local, and connected. 👉 Subscribe to the newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com/subscribe 🎧 Follow Oklahoma Memo wherever you get your podcasts.

Oklahoma news | Wildfire danger, OMES announcement & ICE help from local law enforcement

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Ryan Welton brings you Thursday’s Oklahoma Memo — your fast, local rundown of the stories shaping the state. Today’s top headlines:

Wildfire risk across Oklahoma as winds hit 50 mph and humidity dips to 6%.
Leadership shuffle at the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) — Mark Wood steps in as the new director, following several quick transitions.
ICE and Oklahoma jails: KOSU reports that local facilities now account for roughly half of the state’s immigration arrests.
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols shares his housing and 2026 goals in a story from The Oklahoma Eagle.
Mental health care privatization? Oklahoma Voice reports that the state is exploring turning over four behavioral centers to private providers.
Small businesses hurting: Some report a 40% drop in sales during the holiday season, according to KJRH.

Read today’s newsletter: https://oklahomamemo.com/p/stitt-appoints-new-omes-director-to-lead-core-state-functions

Follow Oklahoma Memo:

💌 Newsletter: oklahomamemo.com

Sooners take down previously undefeated Cowboys in Bedlam hoops, 85-76 | Bedlam Buds

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Real Bedlam finally showed up on the hardwood.

Oklahoma knocked off undefeated Oklahoma State, 85–76, at Paycom Center in a physical, high-energy Bedlam basketball matchup that lived up to the rivalry. Ryan (Boomer Sooner) and Jeremy (Go Pokes, loyal and true) break down how the game unfolded, why timely shooting decided the outcome, and what it says about both teams moving forward.

The guys dive into coaching adjustments, key individual performances, rebounding disparities, and how Porter Moser’s system showed up when it mattered most. From Nigel Pack’s control of the offense to Oklahoma State’s struggles from distance — and the impact of an in-game injury — this episode covers the why behind the final score, not just the score itself.

They also zoom out to the bigger picture: what this result means for tournament résumés, life in brutal basketball conferences, and why Bedlam Buds needs its own rivalry tradition (yes, a Bedlam Chain is officially proposed).

And because it’s Bedlam Buds, it all ends with loyalty, laughs, and a very firm recommendation to never fight a kangaroo.

Final Score

Oklahoma 85, Oklahoma State 76

Key Topics

How OU’s timely three-point shooting flipped the game
Why ball movement and defense fueled the Sooners’ offense
Oklahoma State’s missed opportunities and shooting struggles
Coaching chess match: Porter Moser vs. OSU staff
Rebounding edge that quietly mattered
Injury impact and depth questions for the Cowboys
What both teams need to do next to build tournament résumés
The birth of the Bedlam Chain tradition
Preview of both teams facing UMKC next

👍 Like, subscribe, and follow Bedlam Buds for more rivalry breakdowns — win, lose, or draw.

Less fighting, more listening: a conversation with Congressional District 1 candidate John Croisant

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Oklahoma Memo Podcast, Ryan Welton sits down with congressional candidate John Croisant for a candid discussion about political division, health care costs, and what effective representation should look like in today’s Congress.

Croissant shares his perspective on why politics has become increasingly combative, how lawmakers can model respectful disagreement, and why listening to constituents must come before party loyalty. The conversation also explores the growing influence of money in politics, the need for campaign finance reform, and why Congress must reassert its constitutional role in overseeing executive power.

The episode touches on health care affordability, the future of ACA subsidies, transparency in media, and the importance of public forums where voters can ask tough questions directly.

Topics include:

Political divisiveness and leadership tone
Health care costs and bipartisan solutions
Campaign finance reform and stock trading by lawmakers
Congressional oversight and checks and balances
Transparency, trust, and civic engagement

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo for daily local news and weekly smart conversations that go deeper than the headlines.

Rural hospitals, residents could be hit hardest if ACA subsidies go away | with Grant Hermes

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Grant Hermes — journalist and host of Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes — joins the Oklahoma Memo Podcast to explain what he says is a rapidly approaching deadline for Affordable Care Act subsidy extensions.

In this episode:

Why Hermes says rural communities could be hit hardest
The connection between ACA affordability and rural hospital stability
What Hermes says the Senate and House are attempting this week
Why maternity services are often the first to disappear in struggling rural systems
The political stakes heading into 2026 if affordability worsens

More from Grant Hermes:

Search Substack for “MIMS News Pod” (MIMS News Pod is one word)

https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo:

oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

If you can, leave a 5-star review for this podcast — it helps people discover the show.

OU’s playoff path: Why the bracket sets up better than you'd think | Bedlam Buds

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma is in the College Football Playoff at No. 8, and Ryan and Jeremy think the bracket gets “wacky” immediately after that.

Bedlam Buds break down how Duke’s ACC title result rippled through the field, why Tulane–Ole Miss is a compelling rematch, and why Miami–Texas A&M could be the sneaky first-round game. Then they dig into the main controversy: they argue the committee got the top four right, but the back end wrong — and that BYU was the team that got left out, not Notre Dame.

The segment closes with OU-Alabama thoughts, bracket-path talk, and early Final Four guesses.

If you enjoy the podcast, leave us a 5-star review to help others to discover Bedlam Buds!

How & why AI can reshape the Oklahoma economy, a conversation with Saxum's Hart Brown

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Is Oklahoma ready for the AI economy?

In this episode of the Oklahoma Memo Podcast, Ryan Welton talks with Hart Brown, president of AI and transformation at Saxum, about where artificial intelligence truly stands — and what Oklahoma needs to do next.

Topics include:

Why AI is not a single app, but a system-wide business shift
How Oklahoma’s energy, geography, and infrastructure create opportunity
The role data centers and companies like Google play in local communities
Why AI education must focus on supervision and judgment — not blind trust
What automation could mean for how we work and live by 2030

This episode cuts through fear and hype to explain what AI means for Oklahoma — now and in the years ahead.

First impressions of Eric Morris in Stillwater as OSU coach | Bedlam Buds

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma State officially introduced Eric Morris as its new head football coach, and Bedlam Buds has thoughts.

In this episode, Ryan (Boomer Sooner) and Jeremy (Go Pokes) react to Morris’ debut in Stillwater — from his nervous but honest tone on the podium to his admission that he’s winless in Boone Pickens Stadium and intends to change that. We look at what his arrival means for OSU’s identity, the transfer portal and the quarterback room.

With roughly 20 Cowboys out of eligibility and only a small signing class locked in, Ryan and Jeremy argue that this offseason will be all about portal strategy. They talk through the possibility of North Texas star Drew “Mestemaker” following Morris to Stillwater, why keeping current QBs matters and how real competition could reset the entire offense.

Finally, the guys react to the reported 1,100-fan turnout for Morris’ intro, what it says about Cowboy Nation’s appetite for a reboot and why, after back-to-back winless league seasons, there’s real optimism that OSU can climb quickly if the staff nails this first offseason.

Episode highlights:

Eric Morris’ introductory presser: nervous, genuine and grounded
Why his 0–6 record in Boone Pickens could fuel the turnaround
OSU’s roster math: small signing class, big portal need
What a portal miss vs. portal hit looks like for 2025
The Drew “Mestermaker” question and why QB competition is crucial
Why 1,100 fans at a Monday intro matters for buy-in
How a few impact players could take OSU from rock bottom to dangerous
Long-term dream: Bedlam revived someday as a playoff game

If you enjoy the show, follow Bedlam Buds in your favorite podcast app and drop a 5-star review so more OU and OSU fans can find us.

OU’s Fulnecky firestorm, academic freedom and war-crime allegations against Pete Hegseth (with Grant Hermes)

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

This week, Ryan Welton is joined again by journalist Grant Hermes, host of Make It Make Sense, for a wide-ranging conversation about two stories that could reshape higher education and U.S. military policy.

First, they break down the Samantha Fulnecky grading controversy at the University of Oklahoma: who she is, what the assignment was actually about, why her essay failed basic academic standards, and how the dispute jumped from the classroom to the governor, state superintendent, OU president and national conservative groups. Grant and Ryan talk about:

Why this case is tailor-made for organizations like Turning Point USA and Moms for Liberty
The danger of treating students as “customers” and professors as service providers
How this could become a test case around academic freedom and free speech on campus
Why conservative and liberal professors alike have a stake in defending academic rigor

Then they turn to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and reporting that he gave a verbal “kill them all” order after a U.S. strike on suspected drug boats left survivors clinging to wreckage in the Caribbean. Grant explains:

What we actually know about the Caribbean boat strikes so far
How the Pentagon’s Law of War manual and the Geneva Conventions apply to shipwrecked non-combatants
Why military lawyers and former JAGs say this could amount to a war crime or even murder
Hegseth’s long record of defending accused and convicted war criminals
What congressional investigations are looking at — and why this might end with a high-profile resignation

The episode wraps with Grant’s new civics newsletter, “Things You Forgot from Civics Class,” which revisits the basics we all half-remember from school: war powers, the branches of government, the budget process and more — taught with zero shame and maximum clarity.

Links

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo (daily Oklahoma news recap): https://www.oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

Support Oklahoma Memo on Patreon (for deeper Substack pieces like Ryan’s column on the Fulnecky case): https://www.patreon.com/c/OklahomaMemo
Follow Grant Hermes / Make It Make Sense: https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod
Substack & podcast: search “MIMS pod” or “Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes”
Newsletter: “Things You Forgot from Civics Class” (Mondays) LINK: https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/p/welcome-to-things-you-forgot-from

About the show

Oklahoma Memo is your daily curated news recap for Oklahoma — plus weekly deeper dives with smart journalists like Grant Hermes to help you “make it make sense” on the biggest state and national stories. New conversations drop weekly and run in the Saturday edition of the newsletter.

How Oklahoma went from 17th to 50th in education — and what works

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma’s education system didn’t decline overnight — and fixing it won’t be simple.

In this episode of Oklahoma Memo, Ryan Welton talks with John Croisant — former teacher, Tulsa Public Schools board member, and congressional candidate for Oklahoma’s 1st District — about how underinvestment, staffing shortages and politically driven policy decisions pushed Oklahoma from 17th to 50th in national education rankings.

Topics include:

Why teacher shortages and large class sizes matter
How education funding actually affects student outcomes
The limits of teacher pay raises without additional staff and support
School choice, private school tax credits and their unintended consequences
Why reading proficiency and career readiness are the real benchmarks
The federal government’s role in accountability and special education funding
What a coordinated, outcomes-driven education strategy could look like

Croisant argues that improving education isn’t about ideology — it’s about focusing resources on what works and holding leaders accountable.

🎧 Subscribe for more Oklahoma-focused conversations

📬 Sign up for the daily newsletter: https://oklahomamemo.com/subscribe

What If Hauss Hejny never got hurt? OSU’s season of ‘almosts’ and the Eric Morris reset | Bedlam Buds

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Bedlam Buds, we put Oklahoma State’s rough season under the microscope and ask the question every Cowboys fan has been quietly asking: what if starting quarterback Hauss Hejny hadn’t broken his foot in the very first game?

Jeremy and I walk through the defense’s late-season improvement, the offensive struggles that never let that defense breathe, and how a healthy, mobile Haney might have flipped multiple close games — and maybe even saved Mike Gundy’s job. Then we pivot to the future, breaking down why new head coach Eric Morris feels like a home-run hire and what OSU fans should watch for when his North Texas squad takes on Tulane.

What we cover:

The Oregon debacle vs. the late-season defensive turnaround
How the offense undermined the defense all year long
The “Hejny equation”: why a dual-threat QB changes everything
Which games OSU probably wins with a healthy Hauss Hejny
Would a bowl bid have kept Mike Gundy in Stillwater?
Why Eric Morris fits OSU and the Big 12 so well
How North Texas–Tulane became must-see TV in Stillwater
Portal possibilities: QB, RB and others who could follow Morris
The biggest question mark for 2025: what happens on defense?

Call to action

If you’re a Cowboys fan, we want to hear from you:

How many wins does OSU get with Hejny healthy?
Are you bullish on the Eric Morris era, or in wait-and-see mode?

Leave a rating and review, share the episode with your favorite Pokes fan and make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss our next Bedlam Buds breakdown.

Ranking Thanksgiving foods (And defending the weird ones) | Bedlam Buds

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Ryan and Jeremy trade Bedlam talk for turkey talk in this Thanksgiving edition of Bedlam Buds, ranking their top five Thanksgiving foods and debating some truly polarizing holiday staples.

Ryan keeps it classic with stuffing, green bean casserole, pumpkin pie (with heavy Cool Whip), and leftover turkey sandwiches. Jeremy goes off-script with cheesy potatoes, ham, mashed potatoes with butter, and family-tradition pickle wraps.

They also tackle:

Dark meat vs. white meat
The proper use of gravy
Why mac and cheese may not belong at Thanksgiving
Least favorite dishes (even if you still kind of like them)

Big favor: If you listen and enjoy this episode, leave us a 5-star review so that more people can discover the podcast.

Eric Morris named new football coach at Oklahoma State | Bedlam Buds

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma State has its next football leader — and Bedlam Buds is on it. In this rapid-reaction episode, Ryan and Jeremy unpack the hiring of Eric Morris as OSU’s new football coach.

In this episode:

Why Morris’ offensive track record made him the top choice
Quarterback development and the portal-era rebuild
How Texas ties could reshape recruiting
What his rise at Incarnate Word and North Texas signals
The “grand slam” scenario involving Jim Knowles
Why this move reignites energy for fans, donors, and players

If you're an Oklahoma State fan, share this podcast with your friends — and leave us a 5-star review so more folks can discover this podcast!

How Oklahoma Realtors help buyers navigate rising home insurance costs | Oklahoma Memo

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Guest: Kimberly Robbins, president of the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Association of Realtors (OKCMAR)

Topic: Rising home insurance costs in Oklahoma and how Realtors help buyers and sellers navigate the landscape.

Summary:

Oklahoma’s home insurance rates are now roughly three times the national average. In this episode, Kimberly Robbins explains what’s driving the increases, how Realtors guide buyers through risk and coverage decisions, and why Oklahoma remains a strong housing market despite the cost pressures.

We discuss:

• What’s behind the jump in premiums

• How Realtors help clients shop insurance and understand coverage

• Why considering insurance early in the buying process matters

• OKCMAR’s role in advocacy and policy discussions

• How MLS data helps buyers make smarter decisions

• Why trust and local expertise are critical when choosing a realtor

• Why Oklahoma is still one of the best-value housing markets in the country

Epstein vote fallout + military PSA + 2026 economic buzzword, 'affordability' | Oklahoma Memo

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

National journalist and podcaster Grant Hermes from the "Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes" podcast joins Oklahoma Memo founder and curator Ryan Welton to break down a week packed with political shockwaves: a near-unanimous vote to force the release of the Epstein files, an unexpected military-focused PSA from Democratic lawmakers, and new economic numbers that underscore why affordability is the issue both parties will run on in 2026.

In this episode:

• Why Congress moved so quickly on the Epstein files

• The political meaning behind the Senate’s voice vote

• Why some Republicans are publicly breaking away

• How a Democratic PSA turned into a political unforced error

• The president’s online reaction and what it signals

• Why affordability is overshadowing traditional economic talking points

• What ACA extension rumors could mean for 2026 races

• Why Hermes believes the next 30 days are pivotal

Plus: Grant shares what he’s reporting next, including changes to Coast Guard hate-symbol policy and updates on his Substack and video work.

Subscribe to the Oklahoma Memo newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com.

🔔 Follow this podcast right here, and leave us a 5-star review

📨 Sign up for the free Oklahoma Memo newsletter: https://www.oklahomamemo.com

🎧 Subscribe to “Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes”: https://www.youtube.com/@mimsnewspod

📰 Read Grant’s Substack: https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/

What Oklahomans really think about vaccine requirements — and why it matters | Oklahoma Memo

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, Oklahoma Memo founder and curator Ryan Welton welcomes Timothy Lee, Senior Vice President at the Center for Individual Freedom (CFIF), to discuss a new poll spanning four conservative states — Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Kansas.

The results cut sharply against the national narrative:

Large majorities in every state oppose eliminating vaccine mandates, especially for children.

Tim explains how the poll was conducted, why voters separate COVID vaccines from long-standing childhood immunizations, and why accessibility to vaccines (insurance coverage, pharmacies) polls at nearly 90% support.

We also explore:

• How Florida sparked the debate by ending all vaccine mandates

• Why Oklahomans’ views don’t match online rhetoric

• The role of intellectual property and vaccine innovation in U.S. public health

• Why these findings should matter to legislators heading into 2026

Visit the CFIF website: https://cfif.org/v/

Link to story about the poll: https://cfif.org/v/index.php/press-room/7432-new-poll-red-state-voters-oppose-eliminating-vaccine-requirements-by-wide-margins

And that story has links to each individual state's poll as well as a combined poll.

Subscribe to the daily Oklahoma Memo newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com.

Gritty win for Oklahoma in Tuscaloosa, turnovers doom OSU | Bedlam Buds

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Bedlam Buds, Ryan and Jeremy take you inside the Sooners’ massive road win at Alabama — powered by blocked kicks, pick-sixes, and old-school grit. But is OU’s offense good enough to keep it going against Missouri and LSU?

Then: Oklahoma State’s 14-6 loss to Kansas State was the latest chapter in a season of frustration — five turnovers and a handful of missed opportunities. Still, there’s leadership emerging behind the scenes and one last chance to salvage pride at UCF and against Iowa State.

Reopened for now: The shutdown deal, self-dealing in the senate and the Epstein files

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The government is back open — but the way Washington got there says a lot about where we’re headed next.

In this episode of the Oklahoma Memo Podcast, Ryan Welton is joined by “Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes” host Grant Hermes for a walk-through of the new funding deal, the hidden perks members of Congress gave themselves, and the fast-moving fight over the Jeffrey Epstein files.

They explain how the three-part package keeps agencies running, which programs are safe for a full year and which ones will be back on the chopping block by January 30, and why extending Affordable Care Act subsidies became the line Democrats couldn’t hold. They also look at the little-noticed provision that lets senators tap taxpayer money to cover legal bills tied to January 6 investigations.

Then the conversation turns to the Epstein files: the discharge petition forcing a House vote, the pressure campaign on specific Republicans, and the tens of thousands of pages already released from the Epstein estate that show just how intertwined Epstein’s world was with Donald Trump’s first term. Hermes lays out why this issue has been one of the few that can actually peel some voters away from their usual partisan patterns.

For Oklahomans, they connect the dots between D.C. brinkmanship and local realities: SNAP benefits, military bases, holiday travel and the broader question of how much compromise and self-dealing voters are willing to tolerate.

In this episode:

What’s actually in the new funding deal
Why the government is only fully funded through January 30
How SNAP, veterans programs and military construction are treated differently
The quiet legal-fees provision for senators tied to Jan. 6 probes
How and when federal workers get back pay and agencies restart
The House push to force a vote on releasing Epstein-related DOJ files
Why the White House is lobbying specific members of Congress
What the newly released Epstein documents already reveal
How this all plays in upcoming elections — nationally and in states like Oklahoma

Links:

Oklahoma Memo newsletter (free): [oklahomamemo.com]
Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes (podcast): https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod
Make It Make Sense Substack: https://mimsnewspod.substack.com/

College football predictions for Week 12 (OU vs. Alabama, OSU vs. Kansas State and more!) | Bedlam Buds

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma Memo’s latest College Football Pick ’Em with Bedlam Buds goes heavy on playoff implications, rivalry energy and a little chaos. Jeremy leans hard into style-point season — expecting bluebloods to run it up — while Ryan is a little more skeptical on some of the big numbers and spots a couple of upset and cover specials.

We start with Oklahoma–Alabama and Oklahoma State–Kansas State before rolling through Friday night matchups, top-25 Saturday games and even the 112th Grey Cup. Here’s exactly who picked what.

Game-by-game picks

Oklahoma at Alabama (-6.5)

Ryan: Alabama to win; Oklahoma +6.5 to cover

Jeremy: Alabama to win and cover

Kansas State (-19.5) at Oklahoma State

Ryan: Kansas State to win; Oklahoma State +19.5 to cover

Jeremy: Kansas State to win; thinks OSU might cover but is “having a hard time” predicting it

Friday games

Clemson at Louisville (-2.5)

Ryan: Clemson to win (upset)

Jeremy: Louisville to win and cover

Minnesota at Oregon (-25.5)

Ryan: Oregon to win; unsure on the cover

Jeremy: Oregon to win and cover

Saturday – major national slate

UCLA at Ohio State

Ryan: Ohio State to win and cover

Jeremy: Ohio State to win and cover (“blow ’em out”)

Wisconsin at Indiana (-28.5)

Ryan: Indiana to win and cover (agrees with Jeremy’s take)

Jeremy: Indiana to win big and cover

South Carolina at Texas A&M (-19.5)

Ryan: Texas A&M to win and cover

Jeremy: Texas A&M to win and cover

Notre Dame (-12.5) at Pittsburgh

Ryan: Notre Dame to win and cover

Jeremy: Notre Dame to win but not cover

Michigan (-11.5) vs Northwestern at Wrigley Field

Ryan: Michigan to win; Northwestern +11.5 to cover

Jeremy: Michigan to win; Northwestern to cover

Navy at South Florida (-9.5)

Ryan: South Florida to win and cover

Jeremy: Navy to win outright (upset)

Arizona at Cincinnati (-6.5)

Ryan: Cincinnati to win and cover

Jeremy: Cincinnati to win and cover

UCF at Texas Tech (-23 / -23.5)

Ryan: Texas Tech to win; expects a big win (effectively: to cover)

Jeremy: Texas Tech to win and cover

Georgia Tech (-16.5) at Boston College

Ryan: Georgia Tech to win; unsure on the cover

Jeremy: Georgia Tech to win and cover

Iowa at USC

Ryan: Iowa to win a close one (upset)

Jeremy: Iowa to win a close one (upset), something like 21–20

For this batch you teed up several lines together:

Virginia (-5.5) vs Duke

Tennessee (-39.5) vs New Mexico State

Ole Miss (-13.5) vs Florida

Utah (-7.5) vs Baylor

BYU (-3.5) vs TCU

Picks:

Ryan:

New Mexico State +39.5 to cover vs Tennessee

No specific calls voiced on the others in this stretch

Jeremy:

Says he doesn’t see any upsets here – “all the favorites win”

Thinks Tennessee might get a big lead then empty the bench, so may not love the giant spread, but still has Tennessee, Ole Miss, Utah, BYU and Virginia all to win

Marquee SEC showdown

Texas at Georgia (-6.5)

Ryan: Georgia to win and cover “going away”

Jeremy: Georgia to win and cover

CFL – 112th Grey Cup

Montreal Alouettes vs Saskatchewan Roughriders (in Winnipeg)

Ryan: Rooting for Montreal, but picking Saskatchewan to win (better QB, Trevor Harris)

Jeremy: Saskatchewan to win

OSU wrestling gets big win over Stanford, men's hoops topples A&M | Bedlam Buds

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Ryan and Jeremy talk about Oklahoma State's upcoming football game against Kansas State — but first, the wrestling team had a big win over a Top 15 Stanford squad and there's a big national dual this weekend.

Plus, the Pokes beat Texas A&M (drummed them) in basketball. Is OSU good this year?

And then finally, Oklahoma State has a shot at a win this weekend over Kansas State. If you love OSU, like and subscribe to this channel for more "Bedlam Buds."

OU vs. Alabama: Why the Sooners should be able to keep it close (or win) | Bedlam Buds

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Ryan and Jeremy talk about the upcoming Oklahoma-Alabama game on Saturday, Nov. 15, at 2:30 p.m. The Crimson Tide are a 6.5-point favorite, but the guys like OU's chances — especially if R. Mason Thomas returns.

Follow us wherever you get your podcasts — and please leave a 5-star review. That helps other people discover our podcasts.

The rise of virtual learning in Oklahoma: Inside OVCA with Head of Schools Audra Plummer | Oklahoma Memo

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma Memo's Ryan Welton sits down with Audra Plummer, Head of Schools at the Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA), to unpack how this tuition-free, fully accredited K-12 program has grown to serve thousands of students across Oklahoma.

Plummer explains how OVCA blends virtual learning with in-person activities, partners with career-tech centers, and supports athletes, military families, and students seeking flexible, individualized education.

Key Topics

History and mission of OVCA (founded 2011 by Oklahoma parents)
State accreditation and NCAA approval
How community family advisors support students locally
Real-world socialization: Winter Blast, 4-H, FFA, career-tech partnerships
Counseling, mental-health, and career-planning programs
Success stories from robotics champions to young mothers completing school
How parents can enroll and what to expect from orientation

Links

Learn more → ovca.k12.com
Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo → oklahomamemo.com

Can a judge force SNAP funding? What it means for Oklahoma | Oklahoma Memo

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Ryan Welton (Oklahoma Memo) and Grant Hermes (Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes) break down the court order to fully fund SNAP during the shutdown, what it means for Oklahoma families, and how enforcement could work. They talk about the White House’s air-traffic reduction at 40 major airports, the election-week signals for both parties, and whether congressional Republicans will reassert their Article I standing in a post-Trump landscape.

Key topics

Why the court ordered full SNAP funding and what enforcement could look like
The limits of partial payments and why states can’t backfill SNAP
Shutdown politics: leverage, healthcare subsidies, and outcomes
Air-traffic reduction as pressure tactic—and how it hits OK travelers via hubs
Elections as a turnout engine: why “chaos is animating” voters for 2026
The GOP’s strategic bind: threading policy, Trump, and winnable districts

Calls to action

Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo (daily at 7 a.m.) → oklahomamemo.com
Subscribe to Make It Make Sense with Grant Herms (pod + Substack)
Leave a 5-star review and drop your questions for a future Q&A episode

Why Choctaw Nation was named one of the best places to work in Oklahoma | Oklahoma Memo

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Oklahoma Memo founder and curator Ryan Welton talks with Choctaw Nation Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. about the tribe’s recognition as one of the top employers in Oklahoma on the 2025 Forbes Best-In-State list.

With more than 13,000 employees, the Choctaw Nation has nearly doubled its workforce over the past decade while maintaining a culture rooted in mission, service, and employee feedback. Austin explains how the tribe approaches workplace satisfaction, growth, leadership development, and the balance between tribal identity and modern workforce expectations.

Key Topics

Forbes/Statista workplace survey and how the rankings work
Doubling the workforce from 6,500 to 13,000 employees
Why culture and mission drive hiring and retention
Employee feedback systems and continuous improvement
Work-from-home, workforce flexibility, and future job growth
Economic impact of tribal employment across Oklahoma

Check out Choctaw Nation's careers site.

Inside the Oklahoma startup reinventing hydrogen production | Oklahoma Memo

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Oklahoma Memo founder and curator Ryan Welton talks with engineer and entrepreneur Colby DeWeese about Tobe Energy, a hydrogen-tech startup with a prototype system designed to make green hydrogen cost-competitive with hydrogen made from fossil fuels.

The company has raised $1.8 million, built its own manufacturing and testing facility in Oklahoma City, and is partnering with Tulsa-based Zeeco to speed up commercial deployment.

Key topics discussed:

• Why hydrogen production hasn’t changed in over a century

• How current systems waste energy as heat — and how Tobe’s design fixes it

• Why hydrogen is already essential to agriculture, food and petrochemical industries

• How hydrogen solves the “solar and wind don’t run 24/7” problem

• The emerging market for synthetic fuels made from captured CO₂

• Why Oklahoma’s infrastructure, workforce and industrial land give it an edge

• The founder’s engineering background and the influence of his father’s work at TV Guide

Why Oklahoma’s maternal substance use crisis needs treatment, not punishment | Oklahoma Memo

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Ryan Welton talks with Caitlin Beasley, Policy Engagement Manager at Metriarch, and Amanda Gaddy, director of Women in Recovery’s parent-child reunification services at Family and Children’s Services, about the new “Paths to Recovery” report — a statewide look at maternal substance use, incarceration, and treatment-first solutions.

The report centers on interviews with Oklahoma women who have navigated substance use disorder and the professionals who serve them. One key finding: “We’re moving kind of in the wrong direction,” due to increasing felony child-neglect prosecutions against pregnant women — a trend that discourages them from seeking help.

Beasley and Gaddy stressed that treatment works, prison doesn’t, and meaningful reform requires funding, legislative change, and public understanding of addiction as a health issue, not a moral failure.

Resources Mentioned

🟢 Click or tap here for the 'Paths to Recovery' report

Major points from the conversation:

Maternal substance use was repeatedly identified in Oklahoma as a factor in infant and maternal mortality cases.
The 'Paths to Recovery' report is based on interviews with Oklahoma women who have navigated substance use disorder, and with the people who serve them.
Some women in Oklahoma are being charged with felony child neglect for using substances while pregnant.
Advocates say these prosecutions are rising and making the situation worse.
Fear of being punished keeps pregnant women from seeking help for addiction.
Most women struggling with addiction were victims first, often dealing with trauma and multigenerational cycles of incarceration and addiction.
Treatment-first programs like 'Women in Recovery' allow mothers to stay with their children while getting help, instead of going to prison.

Bedlam Buds | OU and OSU struggle, coaching chaos + Dodgers, Thunder & the CFL

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

From Bedlam heartbreak to baseball brilliance, Ryan (Boomer Sooner!) and Jeremy (Go Pokes!) tackle it all. They break down Oklahoma State’s dismal season and coaching search, Oklahoma’s identity crisis under Brent Venables, the national coaching carousel, the World Series, Thunder basketball, and even the CFL playoffs — complete with a proper poutine and Canadian football trivia.

Topics Covered:

Oklahoma State’s unraveling season and future coaching direction
Oklahoma’s quarterback struggles and Venables’ leadership test
The growing contagion of college football firings
Dodgers vs. Blue Jays: World Series predictions
Early NBA storylines and the Thunder’s chemistry
CFL playoff excitement and why the rouge rule matters

Call to Action:

Subscribe to Bedlam Buds wherever you get your podcasts, and sign up for Ryan’s daily newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com for morning sports recaps and Oklahoma insights.

Shutdown Day 24: Health coverage cliff + East Wing teardown explained | Oklahoma Memo

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

This week’s Oklahoma Memo connects the dots between Shutdown Day 24, a Nov. 1 subsidy deadline, and the knock-on effects for families, farmers, and food prices. We talk through takeaways from a conversation with Sen. James Lankford, signals from Rep. Tom Cole, and a letter from at-risk House Republicans pressing Speaker Mike Johnson for action.

We also dive into the East Wing demolition: how the First Lady’s offices became central to American memory, why a new ballroom raises questions about private money on public grounds, and the unanswered maintenance and governance issues that follow. We close with USDA payments, SNAP realities in Oklahoma, and Barack Obama’s push on state redistricting.

Highlights

Shutdown leverage vs. governance—why temporary extensions might matter
What East Wing history says about institutions and norms
Farm support flowing amid uncertainty—and SNAP stakes for households
Party dynamics ahead of key deadlines and holidays

Resources

Oklahoma Memo newsletter (free, weekdays at 7:00 a.m.): oklahomamemo.com
Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes (search “MIMS Pod”): https://www.youtube.com/@MIMSnewspod

Hashtags: #OklahomaMemo #Shutdown #EastWing #SNAP #USDA #HealthPolicy #Redistricting

Can we prevent the next government shutdown? Sen. James Lankford thinks so. | Oklahoma Memo

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this special edition of Oklahoma Memo, host Ryan Welton sits down with Sen. James Lankford on Day 23 of the federal shutdown. The senator explains why talks broke down, what’s at stake for Oklahoma families, and how his Prevent Government Shutdowns Act could keep Washington working.

Topics include:

Why shutdowns are “easy to start, hard to stop.”
The fight over ACA subsidies and health-care spending.
The impact on farmers, WIC recipients, and 687k Oklahomans on SNAP.
Paying federal workers still on the job.
Finding friendship and faith amid partisanship.

🎧 Listen on YouTube, Spotify, Apple podcasts, and OklahomaMemo.com

Bedlam Buds | OU-Ole Miss showdown, OSU’s “what-if,” Thunder chances for a repeat — and World Series picks

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Hosts: Ryan Welton (Sooners) and Jeremy Cook (Cowboys)

Length: 40 minutes

Summary:

This week on Bedlam Buds, Ryan and Jeremy unpack a full sports weekend for Oklahoma fans: the Sooners’ dominant defense and revived ground game in a 26–7 win, the Cowboys’ “what-if” loss that turned on two devastating fourth-quarter plays, and a look ahead to OU’s game against Ole Miss and OSU’s test in Lubbock.

Plus: why the Thunder’s chemistry feels championship-caliber, how Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers are breaking baseball in a good way, and what the cloud outage that delayed the episode says about modern life (and grading finals).

In this episode:

OU’s defense continues to set the tone
John Mateer’s QBR surprises skeptics
Why OU-Ole Miss might be a shootout—or a statement
The OSU-Cincinnati turning point: third-and-16 and a 100-yard heartbreak
Rodney Fields Jr. and signs of hope for the Cowboys
Thunder roster talk: role players buying in, rotations that work
Dodgers vs. Blue Jays preview: pitching, chemistry, inevitability

Lessons from a serial entrepreneur on benefits, business, and Oklahoma | Oklahoma Memo

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Oklahoma Memo host Ryan Welton sits down with Andy Bigbie, founder of Bigbie Insurance and Benefits — Oklahoma Memo’s first advertiser and a lifelong entrepreneur.

Andy discusses:

His journey from benefits consultant to serial entrepreneur
Why he relaunched his insurance agency
How he helps Oklahoma employers and employees navigate coverage
Real-world tips for open enrollment and HSAs
The outlook for Oklahoma’s economy and startups

📍 Episode length: ~30 minutes

🎧 Listen: OklahomaMemo.com or wherever you get your podcasts

💬 Leave a question for Andy in the comments!

#ad #OklahomaMemo #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #Insurance #Benefits #SmallBusiness #OKC

Shutdown fallout: Rural hospitals, health care in crisis | Oklahoma Memo

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

This week, Oklahoma Memo’s Ryan Welton welcomes back Grant Hermes, host of Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes, for a deep dive into how Washington decisions hit home in Oklahoma.

They discuss:

The real-world fallout of the federal shutdown on rural healthcare, including hospital closures in towns like Stilwell.
Why ACA and Medicaid subsidy expirations could leave Oklahomans hours from emergency care.
A new Supreme Court case threatening the Voting Rights Act and what it could mean for minority representation.
The growing “No Kings” protest movement planned for cities across America this weekend.

Grant also previews his new conversation with a University of Michigan professor on how rural hospital closures hollow out entire towns—economically and medically.

📰 Subscribe to Oklahoma Memo for daily local news at oklahomamemo.com

🎧 Listen and subscribe to Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or subscribe to his Substack.

Launching Tulsa’s next great newsroom — Gary Lee from Tulsa Flyer | Oklahoma Memo

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Oklahoma Memo founder and host Ryan Welton sits down with Tulsa Flyer Executive Editor Gary Lee to talk about the launch of Tulsa’s newest nonprofit newsroom — and why it matters. Lee shares how community listening sessions sparked the project, how it will complement the Oklahoma Eagle, and what partnerships and sustainability plans will help it thrive.

Topics Covered:

Why Tulsa Flyer was created
The newsroom’s Tulsa-first mission
Partnership with Oklahoma Eagle
Collaborations with local outlets
The Tulsa Documenters Program
Sustainability and reader donations

Resources:

Bedlam Buds | OU–Texas fallout, James Franklin out at Penn State, OSU’s shirtless dudes, and MLB picks

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Ryan Welton and Jeremy Cook talk about the weekend that was in college football — an Oklahoma disappointment in Dallas against Texas, and an OSU loss at home to Houston.

What’s inside

Breaking: Penn State fires James Franklin mid-season; the buyout shock and why donors/brand dynamics likely mattered.
OU–Texas recap (23–6): Why the Sooners’ offense lacks an identity, what the defense did right, and why “saving the playbook” isn’t a thing.
QB & staff talk: How OC philosophy, run-game development, and O-line issues are colliding for OU.
OSU status check: Roster churn, injuries, and why “one mistake kills the drive” is the Cowboys’ current tell.
Coaching carousel: Who rises, what profiles fit OSU (and why), and how fast a rebuild can really happen in the portal/NIL era.
Look-ahead picks: OU at South Carolina (why it’s a must-stabilize week) and OSU vs. Cincinnati on Homecoming (how to manufacture an upset).
MLB corner: Who's advancing to the World Series?

How close are we to armed conflict between states? | Oklahoma Memo

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Podcaster and former News 9 political reporter Grant Hermes of the "Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes" podcast joins Ryan Welton and Oklahoma Memo to unpack a tense week in American politics. The two discuss the Insurrection Act of 1807, the possibility of National Guard troops facing one another on U.S. soil, and Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt’s pointed remarks about federal power.

They also touch on the ongoing government shutdown, how it’s testing both parties, and why public participation still matters.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Intro: Why Grant Hermes says this week “feels different”

3:00 – The Insurrection Act and what “Posse Comitatus” really means

8:00 – How close the U.S. is to internal military conflict

13:00 – Governor Stitt’s “federalist quibble” with the White House

18:00 – Political implications: Stitt’s national ambitions

22:00 – Government shutdown update and public sentiment

27:00 – Why civic engagement matters right now

30:00 – Outro: Courage, civics, and calling your member of Congress

Listen on:

Oklahoma Memo Podcast 🎧 | YouTube | Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes

Bedlam Buds – OU-Texas week is here! Defense dominates, offense debated

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Hosts: Ryan (“Boomer Sooner”) & Jeremy (“Go Pokes”)

Length: ~1 hour

Theme: Red River Rivalry week, OU’s defensive dominance, OSU’s struggles, and a look across pro sports.

🏈 Main Topics

1. OU vs. Texas Preview

OU’s 44–0 win over Kent State didn’t convince Ryan that the offense is ready.
Michael Hawkins Jr. showed flashes, but decision-making and pocket presence raised concerns.
The Sooner defense, however, looks elite — Ryan calls it a Top 5 unit in the nation.
Debate: Was OU “holding back” the playbook, or just simplifying for Hawkins?
Texas’ surprising loss to Florida may give OU an edge, but it’s still a must-win game.

2. OSU Recap: Arizona Troubles Continue

Cowboys fall 41–13 in Tucson after another slow start.
Defense allowed fewer yards than previous weeks but still gave up big plays.
Jeremy praises OSU’s effort despite struggles — “at least they didn’t quit.”
Discussion: Can new coordinator Grantham turn things around quickly?

3. Around College Football

UCLA’s “one-week turnaround” and whether belief can spark a rebuild.
Ryan compares the situation to Bob Stoops and Mike Leach’s 1999–2000 offensive revolution at OU.

4. ⚾ MLB Playoff Reactions

Toronto looks dominant; Dodgers and Phillies series heating up.
Brewers crush the Cubs as predicted, and Tigers-Mariners stays tight.
Ryan: “If both bats and arms click, Detroit could win it all.”

5. 🏀 Thunder Talk

OKC wins its preseason opener against Charlotte.
Ryan shares a core memory watching Game 7 from a Manhattan bar.
Jeremy’s brother reports from media day: Thunder still humble and hungry.
Ryan daydreams: Russell Westbrook could return to OKC as a sixth man.

6. 🏒 Hockey Sneak Peek

Jeremy promises research before next week’s Stanley Cup pick; Ryan’s leaning Florida.

💬 Listener Callouts

What’s your Red River prediction — Sooners or Longhorns?
Should OU unleash Hawkins’ legs against Texas?
OSU fans: Is Houston the bounce-back game?

🔗 Follow & Subscribe

📺 Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/@BedlamBuds

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods

📱 Follow @RyanIsThatDude on TikTok for daily updates

The story behind Oklahoma City's Clara Luper's National Sit-In Plaza

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

🎧 Oklahoma Memo Podcast — Weekly Show Notes (October 3, 2025)

Episode Summary:

This week’s episode of The Oklahoma Memo Podcast blends civic pride, sharp political analysis, and sports talk — the way only Oklahoma can. From the new Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza downtown to a major shake-up in state education, the latest on the federal shutdown, and a full sports rundown with Bedlam Buds, it’s a packed week across Oklahoma and beyond.

🏛️ Segment 1: The Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza

Guest: John Kennedy, civic leader and co-chair of the Clara Luper Plaza committee

Oklahoma City’s place in civil rights history is finally getting the spotlight it deserves.
The Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza will be dedicated Saturday, November 1 at 11 a.m., honoring the students who launched the nation’s first lunch counter sit-in.
Featuring 15 life-sized sculptures by Studio EIS, with input from Ed Dwight and Marilyn Luper Hildreth, the plaza connects Oklahoma’s story of nonviolence and respect with the legacy of the OKC National Memorial down the street.
A powerful reminder: “Five blocks apart — two of the most profound examples of violence and nonviolence in American history.”

🏫 Segment 2: Education Shake-Up — Lindel Fields Named State Superintendent

Guest: Scott Mitchell, Griffin Media political analyst

For the first time in decades, a governor has appointed a state superintendent.
Gov. Kevin Stitt tapped Lindel Fields, praised as a “responsible adult” with a mantra:
“Do what you say. Say what you mean. But don’t say it mean.”
Fields’ first job: repair teacher relations and restore calm after years of chaos.
The Attorney General has ordered a forensic audit of the State Department of Education’s spending under Ryan Walters — a move that could carry serious implications.
Plus: the 2026 governor’s race begins to heat up as Charles McCall, Gentner Drummond, and Chip Keating position for the GOP primary.

🏛️ Segment 3: Federal Shutdown Deep Dive

Guest: Grant Hermes, host of Make It Make Sense with Grant Hermes

48 hours into the shutdown, and partisan messaging is already breaking down.
The GOP claim that Democrats are giving “free healthcare to undocumented immigrants”? Not true — the language covers lawful immigrants under ACA and Medicaid extensions.
Reports of possible mass federal firings clash with the Anti-Deficiency Act, which forbids spending money that hasn’t been appropriated.
Herms explains why the pain will reach red states like Oklahoma via TSA staffing, Social Security delays, and Medicaid cuts.
Plus, an alarming Pentagon speech from the president invoking a “war within” — and why military norms matter now more than ever.

⚾ Segment 4: Bedlam Buds Sports Chat

Guest: Jeremy (Bedlam Buds co-host)

Oklahoma State at Arizona: Cowboys are 20.5-point underdogs, but the Buds like their chances to cover — and they love the over (56.5).
OU vs. Kent State: A massive 45.5-point spread — Rowdy says the Sooners just need to stay healthy before Texas.
Tulsa at Memphis: Memphis looks playoff-caliber among Group of Five teams.
MLB Division Series Picks:
Brewers > Cubs (“team of destiny”)
Blue Jays vs. Yankees: split panel
Dodgers favored but Phillies have a path through the bullpen
Mariners vs. Tigers: watch Tarik Skubal as Detroit’s X-factor
From steak sandwiches at Rogers Centre to “team of destiny” vibes in Milwaukee — it’s all storytelling, stats, and gut checks.

💡 Takeaway

From history and respect to reform and reality, Oklahoma’s stories matter.

Subscribe to The Oklahoma Memo Podcast for weekly context on the state’s most important conversations — politics, people, and pride.

Ryan Walters resignation shock, Gundy out, and will D.C. shut down?

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Podcast: Oklahoma Memo (Weekly)

Episode: 001 — “Resignation Shock, Gundy Out, and Will D.C. Shut Down?”

Host: Ryan Welton

Guests: Sandra Valentine (OK education parent-advocate), Scott Mitchell (News 9/News On 6 analyst), Grant Hermes (host, Make It Make Sense)

Publish cadence: Fridays, 6:00 p.m. CT

Length: ~30–40 minutes

Episode summary (TL;DR)

State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced his resignation on FOX News late Wednesday — but as of Friday 1 p.m., no formal letter was filed, complicating Gov. Kevin Stitt’s ability to appoint an interim.
Mike Gundy is out at Oklahoma State after a 20-year run; OC Doug Meacham steps in as interim ahead of Baylor.
Grant Hermes explains what a federal government shutdown actually does to Oklahomans: airports, SNAP/WIC, Medicare/Medicaid processing, civilian DoD workers, contractors, inspections, IRS actions, and more.
New segment previews: “Bedlam Buds” (OU vs. OSU friends talking ball) and “Make It Make Sense” (national news → Oklahoma impact).

Chapter markers (add exact times after upload)

00:00 Welcome + what the weekly format includes

02:15 Top story: Walters “resigns” on TV, not in writing; why that matters

08:40 Guest: Sandra Valentine — parent perspective, board dynamics, and what Oklahoma needs next

18:30 Quick sports break: Gundy out, Baylor on deck; Cowboys under interim Doug Meacham

21:10 Guest: Scott Mitchell — politics of the resignation, board relations, “responsible adult” criteria

31:00 Guest: Grant Hermes (Make It Make Sense)— Shutdown 101 and the Oklahoma ripple effects (air travel, benefits, bases, contractors)

46:30 Preview: Bedlam Buds (OU–OSU rivalry talk)

50:00 Weekend picks & OKC Greek Festival shout-out + newsletter CTA

Key takeaways

A televised resignation without a filed letter freezes succession decisions and keeps the Board of Education in limbo.
Board–superintendent relations matter: expect a search for a reform-minded, collaborative, education-literate leader.
Shutdown stakes for OK: TSA/ATC staffing strains, WIC/SNAP timing, Medicaid/Medicare processing, DoD furloughs, contractor non-payment.

Guest bios & links

Sandra Valentine — longtime Oklahoma parent advocate following state education policy and board actions.
Scott Mitchell — Political analyst, Your Vote Counts / Hot Seat, News 9 / News On 6.
Grant Hermes — Journalist; host of Make It Make Sense (explainer podcast turning complex policy into plain English).

Resources mentioned

Oklahoma Memo newsletter — daily at 7 a.m. CT: OklahomaMemo.com
Grant Hermes’ podcast: Make It Make Sense
OKC Greek Festival (weekend highlight)

How to support

Subscribe to the newsletter (free): OklahomaMemo.com
Follow on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram: @OklahomaMemo except for IG (@OklaMemo)
Share this episode with a friend who follows Oklahoma news.

Why Oklahoma State Department of Education senior officer resigned | Oklahoma Memo

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 18:30:00 +0000

In today’s episode of Oklahoma Memo, host Ryan Welton dives into major developments affecting state and federal agencies—plus a fond tribute to rock legend Ozzy Osbourne.

What You’ll Hear

OSDE Resignation Revelations — Former Chief Compliance Officer Kourtney Heard’s letter reveals alleged manipulation of school accreditation and efforts that halted student outcomes. Full story by Nuria Martinez-Keel at Oklahoma Voice.
EPA Cuts in Ada — The EPA will shut down its Office of Research and Development, including the Robert S. Kerr Environmental Research Center in Ada. Coverage by Chloe Bennett-Steele of KGOU / StateImpact Oklahoma.
Recreational Marijuana Petition — Signature collection begins despite legal uncertainty. Insight from Oklahoma Voice.
Ozzy Osbourne Tribute — A look back at the life, legacy, and Oklahoma concerts of the Prince of Darkness.

The Oklahoma Rundown

Waffle House stabbing in OKC (KOCO)
Marijuana petition enters collection phase (Oklahoma Voice)
Bever murders special report (Tulsa World)
Gun‑suicide crisis in rural white communities (The Black Wall Street Times)
Bible Initiative Supreme Court action (News On 6)
Naked intruder walks into Edmond pond incident (KOCO)
Southeastern Oklahoma State on EA Sports game (KXII)

…and more!

Love what you’re hearing?

Subscribe to the daily Oklahoma Memo newsletter at oklahomamemo.com
Follow us on social media
And if you’re interested in quality podcast content for your business, email Ryan: Ryan@doabledigitalmedia.com

Today in Oklahoma: Guymon police scandal, Caddo language challenge, Tulsa trauma center

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 21:45:00 +0000

📄 Show Notes for July 22, 2025 | Oklahoma Memo Podcast

Host: Ryan Welton

On today’s episode of Oklahoma Memo:

🕵️ Investigative Spotlight: Oklahoma Watch follows up on anonymous tips about the Guymon Police Department and an alleged trucker ticketing scheme involving the Texas County DA.
🗣️ Cultural Loss: The Caddo Nation mourns its last fluent language speaker while preserving efforts continue, as reported by KOSU.
🏥 Tulsa Milestone: Ascension St. John is now the first Level 1 trauma center in northeast Oklahoma—why this is such a big deal.
🌺 Dog Days Gardening: Ryan shares flower-growing success stories—and what not to do—during Oklahoma’s summer heat.
📰 Around the State:
Oklahoman executed in Syria
Domestic violence tragedy in Bethany
AG steps in on former teacher sex abuse case
Small-town cockfighting persists
And a touching tribute to Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Why is Oklahoma Education Dept. mum on resignations? + $3B tribal grant warning | Oklahoma Memo

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000

On this special half-birthday episode of Oklahoma Memo, host Ryan Welton reflects on six months of connecting Oklahomans to quality journalism—and previews the platform’s next evolution. Then it’s into today’s top stories: Why is the Oklahoma State Department of Education keeping senior staff resignations under wraps? Plus, how a proposed Trump-era federal grant freeze could cost Native communities in Oklahoma up to $3 billion.

Also in this episode:

Jena Nelson’s congressional campaign kickoff
Blake Shelton’s surprise concert with his stepson
The $2 billion Vinita theme park… still in limbo
Chicken fried steak worth a New York Times write-up
Why OU Football might be facing a make-or-break season

Youth housing crisis & public media cuts | Oklahoma Memo, July 18

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000

🎧 Show notes: Here's what's happening in Oklahoma news for July 18, 2025.

In this episode of Oklahoma Memo, host Ryan Welton highlights pressing issues in Oklahoma, including the youth housing crisis and recent political decisions impacting public media funding.

Stories from nonprofit newsrooms The Frontier and Oklahoma Watch reveal the growing number of homeless youth and the correlations between housing instability and school absenteeism.

Additionally, Ryan discusses the broader implications of defunding public media and emphasizes the value of public radio.

The episode also features a rundown of notable news across Oklahoma and ends with a call to support quality journalism by donating to local public radio stations and leaving reviews for this podcast.

And be sure to subscribe to Oklahoma Memo at https://www.oklahomamemo.com.

Chapter times:

00:00 Introduction and Headlines Overview

01:06 Public Media Funding Crisis

03:26 Supporting Public Radio

05:59 Youth Housing Crisis in Oklahoma

07:37 Business Podcasting Strategy

09:04 Oklahoma Rundown

13:27 Conclusion and Call to Action

New Oklahoma City Thunder Arena Unveiled + Glossip Deal Dispute | July 17, 2025

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000

New Thunder Arena Unveiled + Glossip Deal Dispute | July 17, 2025

Summary:

Mayor David Holt debuts bold new renderings for OKC’s $1 billion Thunder arena. Plus, Richard Glossip claims AG Drummond agreed to let him go free — but the state says no deal. We break it all down, plus your top 10 stories across Oklahoma.

Sources:

Oklahoma Voice: Arena story by Ylleana Berryhill
Oklahoma Voice: Glossip story by Barbara Hoberock

CTA:

Subscribe to the newsletter at oklahomamemo.com. Follow Oklahoma Memo on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. Email feedback to news@oklahomamemo.com.

Oklahoma News: State Steps Up for Texas & New Mexico — While OKC Ponders New Arena Name | Oklahoma Memo

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

🎙 Show Notes — Oklahoma Memo Podcast (July 16, 2025)

🚨 Today on the pod:

Oklahoma sends aid to flood-ravaged New Mexico and more teams to Texas.
Paycom’s big arena bombshell: What will OKC’s new arena be called — and what happens to the old one?
Plus, the best journalism from across Oklahoma in your daily rundown.

🏟 Arena talk:

Oklahoma City is buzzing over arena news. Paycom announced it’ll drop naming rights in 2028, just as the new arena opens. That leaves a big question: Who’ll snag the next sponsorship deal? Listeners weighed in with ideas like Devon Energy Arena, Sonic Thunderdome, and even Life Church.arena. Meanwhile, Paycom’s CEO may redevelop the current site — think entertainment district like you see in Arlington or Atlanta. What would you want there? Email us at news@oklahomamemo.com.

🌊 Flood response:

Oklahoma’s sending a 10-person team to help New Mexico recover from catastrophic flooding, plus more swift water rescue crews to Texas, where the death toll is staggering. Gov. Stitt says it’s all about standing by neighbors when they need it most.

📰 The Oklahoma Rundown:

Bob Funk Sr., co-founder of Express Employment Professionals, dies.
OKC Police release bodycam from Midtown mass shooting.
Voters will weigh a $2.7 billion bond in October.
Charter board greenlights Epic audit.
Ryan Walters fights order to pay journalists’ fees.
No charges for officer in SE OKC fatal shooting.
400+ dogs rescued in Stroud cruelty case.
Why did Oklahomans get a ‘Blue Alert’ from Texas?
More: Cleveland County jail contract ends, paid leave report, disability jobs rethink.
Ardmoreite small-town scoop: former principal says district ignored discipline, child struck.

👉 Subscribe to our free daily newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com and follow us on TikTok, YouTube & Instagram for more.

Trump’s Medicaid cuts, EPA vs chemtrails, & MLB draft 1st round dominated by Oklahoma players

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

🎧 Trump’s Medicaid cuts, EPA vs chemtrails, & MLB draft 1st round dominated by Oklahoma players

In this episode of Oklahoma Memo, host Ryan Welton breaks down what President Trump’s new healthcare bill could mean for nearly a quarter of Oklahomans on Medicaid, plus how the EPA is once again shutting down chemtrails conspiracies. We also celebrate a huge weekend for Oklahoma baseball with three players going in the first round of the MLB Draft.

Also in this episode:

A quick ad on how Oklahoma Memo can help turn your event or keynote into a podcast.
The Oklahoma Rundown: 10 top stories from Guymon to Idabel, including record state revenues, SNAP impacts, and a tragic house fire in Logan County.

Links & sources:

StateImpact Oklahoma on Medicaid: KGOU.org
Oklahoma Watch on the EPA & contrails: OklahomaWatch.org
MLB Draft coverage via The Oklahoman: Oklahoman.com

👉 Subscribe to our newsletter at oklahomamemo.com and follow us on social for daily Oklahoma stories.

Heartland Flyer Saved (For Now) + Walters’ New Teacher Test | Oklahoma Memo

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Today on Oklahoma Memo:

The Heartland Flyer gets a last-minute funding boost to keep running between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth — with long-term hopes of expanding into Kansas.
State Superintendent Ryan Walters announces a PragerU-backed ideology test for teachers from “woke” states like California and New York, stirring debate as Oklahoma continues facing a teacher shortage.
Plus, The Oklahoma Rundown — flash flood risks, a raccoon that took out the power, Paul McCartney heading to Tulsa, and more top stories from across the state.

Show notes:

🎙 Hosted by Ryan Welton
📰 Stories sourced from Oklahoma Voice, StateImpact Oklahoma (KGOU, KOSU), The Oklahoman, KFOR, News 9, KTUL and more — support local journalism!
🚂 Full Heartland Flyer story by Barbara Hoberock at Oklahoma Voice
🏫 Teacher certification story by Beth Wallis at StateImpact Oklahoma
📧 Want a turnkey podcast for your business? Email ryan@doabledigitalmedia.com
👉 Subscribe to the Oklahoma Memo newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com
🎥 Follow us on TikTok & YouTube @OklahomaMemo
⭐ Rate & review this podcast to help more Oklahomans find us!

Oklahoma Memo News Update: July 10

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:30:00 +0000

🎧 Episode Notes: Oklahoma Memo — July 10, 2025

Today on Oklahoma Memo:

A fringe anti-government militia claims it took down News 9’s weather radar — and warns more Oklahoma radars could be targeted.
State Superintendent Ryan Walters says schools must serve free meals starting next year — but a top lawmaker calls it an “empty threat.”
Plus, a fast spin around the state: mountain lions, stolen heifers, a Turner Turnpike travel stop closing for good, and more.

📰 Full story list + sources in today’s newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com

👉 Follow, rate & review the podcast wherever you listen. It really helps more Oklahomans find us.

🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel by searching Oklahoma Memo.

📩 Sign up for the free daily newsletter at OklahomaMemo.com

Questions or want to sponsor an episode? Email ryan@doabledigitalmedia.com or news@oklahomamemo.com.

Oklahoma Memo News Update: July 9

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000

This is the first episode of Oklahoma Memo, a podcast dedicated to Oklahoma news. If you're unfamiliar with the Oklahoma Memo, it's a newsletter published daily at 7 a.m. You can subscribe to it at OklahomaMemo.com.

📝 Top stories:

✅ Trump plan to close key weather labs draws ire of Rep. Tom Cole

The Trump administration is proposing the shutdown of the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, which is responsible for major radar forecasting breakthroughs.

Oklahoma Watch’s Em Luetkemeyer reports this move would threaten more than 900 local jobs and critical severe weather research.

Rep. Tom Cole is pushing back, calling the lab a “national asset.”