Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona
Episode: 06-18-25
Title: John Makes His Stance On Immigration Clear And Admits It's Evolved A Lot Over The Years
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Host: John Holmberg
Co-Hosts: Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, Dick Toledo

Overview

In the June 18, 2025 episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness (HMS) on 98 KUPD, host John Holmberg delves deep into his personal stance on immigration, revealing how his views have matured and shifted over the years. Joined by co-hosts Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo, the discussion intertwines personal anecdotes, humor, and contemplative insights, providing listeners with a candid look into Holmberg's evolving perspective on a contentious topic.

I. Introduction to the Episode

The episode begins with ads promoting local businesses, setting the stage for HMS's typical morning vibe. However, by approximately the 1:46 mark, John Holmberg transitions from advertisements to the main discourse, expressing frustration with the promotional segments and shifting focus to more substantial content.

II. John Holmberg’s Evolving Stance on Immigration

Holmberg candidly discusses his long-standing and fluctuating views on immigration, illustrating his internal conflicts and the practical considerations that have influenced his opinions.

• Initial Stance and Fluctuations:

  Holmberg admits, “[02:15]... I’ve had a stance on immigration that has been waffling and wavered for years.” He reflects on his inconsistency, acknowledging that his opinions have swayed based on personal experiences and circumstances.

• Practical Influences:

  He cites his landscaping business as a pivotal factor in his evolving views: “[04:00]... Until I hired Al to do my lawn, I was like, all of you... we got to get these people out of here.” The necessity of labor led him to reconsider his rigid stance, demonstrating how personal needs can impact broader ideological beliefs.

• Humorous Analogies:

  Holmberg uses humor to convey his changing perspective: “[05:00]... If you fall out of my tree that I’m charged $30 a tree for and you are undocumented, I will bury you and never mention it again.” This exaggerated statement underscores his frustration and the complexities of addressing undocumented workers' roles in everyday services.

III. Practical Experiences Shaping Views

Holmberg shares specific experiences that have influenced his thoughts on immigration, blending personal anecdotes with broader social commentary.

• Landscaping Business Challenges:

  Addressing the practical side of his business, Holmberg explains the disparity in costs charged by undocumented workers versus others: “[03:20]... One guy was charging me $3.95 to trim palm trees and another guy said 30 bucks a tree.” This financial discrepancy highlights the economic factors that complicate immigration debates.

• Dependence on Undocumented Labor:

  He reflects on the reliance of his business on undocumented workers: “[04:30]... When my yard looked great, my mind changed... God forbid one of those 40-foot palm trees needed trimming.” This admission reveals the intertwined nature of personal convenience and immigration policy.

• Impact on Service Quality:

  Holmberg emphasizes the importance of reliable labor: “[06:00]... Al, my landscape guy, and I... his work is immaculate. He looks better...” The quality of work provided by trusted, albeit undocumented, workers plays a crucial role in shaping his views.

IV. Interactions with Co-Hosts and Humor

The conversation with co-hosts is laced with humor and playful banter, lightening the discussion while still addressing serious issues.

• Comments on Co-Host Toledo:

  Holmberg pokes fun at Dick Toledo’s remarks on China and Hong Kong: “[02:50]... Toledo quickly chimed in with, ‘Hong Kong is China.’ Typical commie. And then a phrase that's never been said on this show ever.” This exchange showcases the show's trademark humor and camaraderie among hosts.

• Restaurant Anecdotes:

  Sharing stories about encounters in local eateries, Holmberg and the co-hosts laugh over cultural misunderstandings and humorous incidents: “[07:00]... Brett ordered a chicken parmesan sandwich and he just shouted it. Wanna check? Oh, whoa.” These lighthearted moments provide a relatable and entertaining backdrop to the more serious immigration discussion.

V. Addressing Listener Feedback and Criticism

Holmberg anticipates and addresses potential backlash from listeners regarding his fluctuating stance on immigration.

• Acknowledging Diverse Opinions:

  He states, “[05:30]... I have some views of immigration that are my own. I don't let FOX or MSNBC tell me how to think.” This assertion emphasizes his independence in forming opinions, despite external influences.

• Handling Political Polarization:

  Holmberg reflects on the politicization of immigration issues: “[06:05]... Now, I'm going to get a bunch of emails about this because it's going to get politicized.” He preempts controversies by clarifying that his stance is personal and not aligned strictly with any political ideology.

• Encouraging Constructive Dialogue:

  He urges listeners to move beyond heated arguments: “[04:50]... Stop yelling at me through email about immigration.” This plea for respectful discourse highlights his desire for meaningful conversations rather than divisive debates.

VI. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode nears its end, Holmberg reiterates his complex views on immigration, emphasizing the need for balanced and practical approaches.

• Personal Admission:

  Holmberg concedes, “[07:50]... I firmly admit I'm way off the fray on this deal.” His honest admission underscores the nuanced nature of his opinions, acknowledging that his position doesn't fit neatly into conventional categories.

• Call for Understanding:

  He appeals for empathy and understanding: “[09:00]... Immigration is what we're built on, and you have to drive past the reservation to go to your march.” This statement reflects his recognition of immigration’s foundational role in American society, despite the challenges it presents.

• Final Humorous Note:

  The episode wraps up with a humorous remark about cultural celebrations: “[10:00]... They're gonna be carrying you around like C3PO talking stick next time you walk in there.” This light-hearted comment leaves listeners with a blend of humor and reflection on cultural integration.

Notable Quotes

• John Holmberg [02:15]: "I’ve had a stance on immigration that has been waffling and wavered for years."

• John Holmberg [03:20]: "One guy was charging me $3.95 to trim palm trees and another guy said 30 bucks a tree."

• John Holmberg [04:30]: "When my yard looked great, my mind changed. God forbid one of those 40-foot palm trees needed trimming."

• John Holmberg [05:30]: "I have some views of immigration that are my own. I don't let FOX or MSNBC tell me how to think."

• John Holmberg [09:00]: "Immigration is what we're built on, and you have to drive past the reservation to go to your march."

Conclusion

This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness offers listeners a candid and introspective look into John Holmberg's evolving stance on immigration. Through personal anecdotes, humor, and open dialogue with co-hosts, Holmberg navigates the complexities of immigration policy and its real-world implications on everyday life. His willingness to share his fluctuating views fosters a relatable and thought-provoking conversation, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own perspectives and the multifaceted nature of immigration issues.