The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast | a podcast by Ira Sternberg

Ira David Sternberg
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Welcome to The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast! Each week, the host Ira Sternberg, talks with the celebrities, entertainers, writers, and personalities who make Las Vegas the most exciting city in the world!

  1. NOV 10

    Talking With Yuka Notsuka – November 10, 2025

    This week, Ira talks with Yuka Notsuka, ensemble dancer in Disney’s "The Lion King," performing November 19–30 at The Smith Center. In this lively episode of "Talk About Las Vegas With Ira," Yuka shares her journey from her early dance training in Fukuoka, Japan—where she discovered her passion for dance at just 10 years old—to performing on stages around the world. She talks about the discipline behind her art, how she learned English, and her love of touring and musical theater. Yuka also reveals her “soul food,” her secret to staying grounded (hint: it involves a portable bathtub), and how she balances life as a performer and Pilates instructor—all with a great sense of humor and an ever-growing curiosity for acting. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

    29 min

  2. NOV 3

    Talking With David Goldrake, the International Man of Mystery – November 3, 2025

    This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with David Goldrake, The International Man of Mystery, performing at The Magicians Room at the LINQ Promenade, Fridays through Tuesdays at 8:30 p.m. In this magical conversation, David reveals the inspiration behind The Magicians Room—developed by Damian Costa—and what makes this intimate venue so unique. He also shares how speaking seven languages helps him connect with audiences (though English has become his favorite), and why passion and responsibility drive every performance. David opens up about his signature illusion, “The Puzzle of Life,” and the art of setting the right tone onstage—by first learning to truly listen. You’ll hear stories of remarkable people he’s met after shows, his first meeting (and lasting friendship) with Siegfried, and a memorable encounter with David Copperfield. Plus, he talks about being embraced by Las Vegas’s tight-knit magic community, why there are no days off in show business, and how he keeps his act fresh with brand-new material—all while keeping the focus squarely on you, the audience. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

    29 min

  3. OCT 20

    Talking With Joey Medina – October 20, 2025

    This week on "Talk About Las Vegas With Ira," Ira steps into the ring—metaphorically—with comedian, filmmaker, and former Arizona Lightweight Boxing Champion Joey Me-dina (appearing with Lisa Alvarado, the Latin Queen of Comedy), October 30 at Chinita's Venue in Henderson at 7:00 & 9:15 PM. In a raw, revealing, and hilarious conversation, Joey shares how growing up as a shy, latchkey kid in the Bronx—and navigating life without a father—pushed him toward the boxing gym, where he trained daily with relentless discipline. That same fight-for-survival mentality would later shape his approach to comedy: “Mentally, it’s the same thing,” he says. But before boxing or stand-up, Joey was already winning—behind the camera. With more than 250 film festival awards, he discovered storytelling early, eventually transitioning from open mics to a powerhouse career that blends humor, grit, and heart. Joey opens up about: How the boxing ring prepared him for the comedy stage Why filmmaking was actually his first love Overcoming childhood shyness Being known as “humble” (and being surprised by it) Going on stage with no script—just instinct Why a great comedian is a “more dynamic version of yourself” Working clean and reading the room His friendship and chemistry with host Mat Plant The funniest person he’s ever met The advice he gives comics… but only if they ask Whether you’re a comedy fan, a boxing buff, or a sucker for underdog stories with punchlines, this episode delivers. Listen (or watch) now—and get ringside seats to Joey’s incredible journey from the streets of the Bronx to the spotlight of comedy. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

    29 min

  4. OCT 13

    Talking With GRAMMY-WINNING CLASSICAL GUITARIST JASON VIEAUX – October 13, 2025

    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. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

    28 min

  5. OCT 6

    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. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

    29 min

  6. SEP 29

    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. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

    30 min

  7. SEP 15

    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. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)

    30 min

  8. SEP 9

    RINGO MAKING VEGAS (AND OTHER) TOUR NEWS

    PLUS ART, ALBUM AND BOOK! QUICK CLIP (Ringo on performing in Vegas through the years): Ringo and the All Starrs - Steve Lukather, Colin Hay, Hamish Stuart, Warren Ham, Buck Johnson and Gregg Bissonette - joined by musical director Mark Rivera - zoomed in from Riverside Theater in Milwaukee today where they are rehearsing for the Ringo & His All Starr Band Tour, which kicks off September 10 at the Chicago Theatre. Watch Full Podcast Video Fall Tour Dates for September: 10 The Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL 12 Miller High Life Theater, Milwaukee, WI 13 Bourbon & Beyond, Louisville, KY 17 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV 19 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV 20 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV 21 Ironstone, Murphys, CA 23 Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, Highland, CA 24 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV 26 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV 27 The Venetian, Las Vegas, NV Other Ringo news: STARR ART exhibition at Animazing Art Gallery (September 5-October 15) in the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian Resort Las Vegas, his first show since 2019 and his first to feature his original paintings for exhibition and sale (with all artist proceeds going to the Lotus Foundation).  Look Up, Ringo's acclaimed Country album with T Bone Burnett released in January 2025 and  garnered him his first UK #1 and saw him chart in the Top 10 on numerous Billboard Charts and make his Grand Ole Opry debut. Ringo and T Bone are currently working on the follow up.  + Ringo's last book, Beats and Threads, published by Julien’s Auctions, is an unprecedented chronicle of more than 70 years of his legendary sonic and sartorial style dedicated solely to his historic drum kits and era defining garments. Features 300 images and offers for the first-time the most comprehensive look at his legendary Beatles-era drum kits containing decades of research-based information with curated and detailed photographs of these pieces of music history. Watch the full Podcast Video

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Welcome to The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast! Each week, the host Ira Sternberg, talks with the celebrities, entertainers, writers, and personalities who make Las Vegas the most exciting city in the world!

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