The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast

This week, Ira talks with Grammy-winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux (during the UNLV Performing Arts Center’s 49th Season) in the intimate lobby of the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall.

Jason shares his remarkable journey — from “goofing around” with a guitar as a kid to winning his first major competition at 19 and launching a career that’s redefined what classical guitar can be.

He talks about the instrument’s unique sound (yes, those nylon strings!), the thrill of connecting emotionally with audiences, and how his playing evolved from proving his technical chops to simply playing what moves him.

In this conversation, Jason reflects on taking creative risks in his recordings, blending genres during his encores, and the mentors who shaped his artistry. He also opens up about what it means to “pay it forward” to the next generation of musicians.

A conversation full of insight, inspiration, and the pure joy of music-making.

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Talking With Travis Cloer – October 6, 2025

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with Travis Cloer — the longest-running “Frankie Valli” in the Tony and Grammy Award-winning phenomenon “Jersey Boys.” Now, he’s stepping into the spotlight as himself, bringing The Frankie Valli Songbook to life in the Access Showroom at Aliante Casino on October 18.
In this lively conversation, Travis shares how he managed to keep his own identity while performing one of the most iconic roles in musical theater; his deep love for the music that shaped a generation; and the lasting influence Frankie Valli has had on him personally and professionally.
Travis reveals why his current show isn’t your typical tribute—it’s a heartfelt homage to the songs and the sound, infused with his own twist. Joining him onstage is none other than Robby Robinson, Frankie’s longtime music director of 47 years. Travis also recalls the unforgettable moment he first met Frankie backstage at "Jersey Boys," and how the show opened the Four Seasons’ music to a whole new generation.
He dives into the artistry behind staying true to that legendary sound—layering harmonies using only his own voice, honoring the lush production of the original recordings, and delivering that energy live with a visual flair that brings every note to life.
From “Grease” and “Sherry” to “Walk Like a Man,” “Swearin’ to God,” “Girl Come Running,” “Rag Doll,” “Dawn,” “My Eyes Adored You,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”—Travis celebrates the timeless hits with heart, style, and unmistakable passion.
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Talking With Scotty Schuder – September 29, 2025

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” I sit down with world-renowned bartender Scotty Schuder, the creative force behind Paris’ legendary Dirty Dick tiki bar. Scotty is bringing his globally celebrated cocktails to Petite Bohème for a one-night-only takeover, Thursday, October 2.
In our conversation, Scotty dives into the rich history of tiki culture—from its 1934 origins with Don the Beachcomber, through its decline, and into today’s vibrant neo-Tiki revival. He shares how his own journey began here in Las Vegas, the city where he first fell in love with tiki, before spending 27 years in Paris and eventually opening Dirty Dick—a bar designed to welcome everyone.
We talk about his deep Las Vegas family roots, his collaboration with Petite Bohème’s Bar Manager Jonah Gibbs, and the magic of tiki: homemade ingredients, fresh juices, premium spirits, and pure escapism. Scotty is joined by Mickey, who helped launch Dirty Dick, as they reveal how recipes are remembered, why tiki resonates so deeply, and what makes this cocktail culture such an unforgettable experience.
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Talking With Richard N. “Rick” Velotta – September 15, 2025

This week on "Talk About Las Vegas With Ira," Ira sits down with Richard N. “Rick” Velotta, Assistant Business Editor at the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Rick shares his insid-er’s perspective on the forces reshaping our city—from the explosion of professional sports teams, and the real possibility of an NBA franchise, to how the resort community may have pushed pricing a little too far.
We dig into the future of transportation with the underground Loop system and the long-awaited high-speed rail, plus how “speed dating” between airlines and destinations in an upcoming conference helps fuel growth. Rick also breaks down the top stories he’s tracking this year: rising visitation, commodity markets crossing into sports betting, and the development of a supplemental airport at Ivanpah.
Along the way, Rick reflects on the resilience of Las Vegas—how we continually reinvent ourselves—and why he’s optimistic about both the city and the future of journalism here. He also talks about Terry Lanni, the late MGM Mirage CEO, as someone who he wishes he’d had more time to interview.
And of course, we couldn’t leave out The Sphere—already a defining part of Las Vegas’ entertainment landscape.
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