The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with veteran political journalist Jon Ralston, founder and CEO of The Nevada Independent and author of "The Game Changer: How Harry Reid Remade the Rules and Showed Democrats How to Fight."

In a candid and fascinating conversation, Jon reflects on his complicated, sometimes turbulent relationship with legendary Nevada senator Harry Reid—a political powerhouse who rose from humble beginnings in Searchlight, Nevada to become one of the most in-fluential figures in Washington.

Jon shares why he once doubted Reid could win a Senate seat—describing him as having “no charisma” and “the limpest handshake I ever experienced”—and how Reid’s quiet determination, relentless strategy, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering proved him wrong.

The episode explores Reid’s complex personality, the tension between his private political machinations and his public image, and the moments when Reid pushed back against Jon’s reporting. Jon also recounts how Reid unexpectedly gave him the green light in 2021 to finally write the book he had long wanted to write—granting access to his vast archives at University of Nevada, Reno and sitting for 24 Zoom interviews before his death.

With more than 1,000 boxes of records and 12 million digital files, Jon uncovered surprising material—including FBI files on Reid—and insights into the senator’s rise, his strategic brilliance, and his determination to make Nevada a national political force.
Jon also discusses Reid’s mentorship under former Nevada governor Mike O'Callaghan, his role in passing the Affordable Care Act, and why Reid believed that Democrats needed to learn how to fight politically—both in Nevada and across the country.

The result is a nuanced portrait of an “incredibly complex guy” whose influence reshaped American politics.
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Talking With Patrick Lindsey – March 2, 2026

This week, Ira sits down with Patrick Lindsey, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, for a high-octane conversation about one of the city’s most electrifying weekends of the year.

With the Pennzoil 400 presented by Jiffy Lube roaring into town March 15, along with the LiUNA NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race on March 14, Patrick shares what makes race weekend in Las Vegas unlike anywhere else.

From his 20-year career in the golf world to re-learning the fast-paced culture of NASCAR, Patrick talks about the evolution of the sport, the massive and immersive Speedway property, and why this venue delivers both an affordable family experience and a high-end VIP weekend inside the exclusive Blackjack Club.

With strong support from the Las Vegas Strip and a property built to impress, the Speedway isn’t just a racetrack — it’s a destination.

Buckle up. This episode takes you behind the scenes of one of the biggest sports weekends in Las Vegas.

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Talking With Phillip-Michael Scales – February 23, 2026

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira welcomes Nashville-based singer-songwriter Phillip-Michael Scales, performing at Myron’s at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts on February 27 at 7 p.m.
In this engaging conversation, Phillip-Michael opens up about the work ethic he describes as “born out of impatience”—a relentless inner drive that pushes him to keep creating, evolving, and refining his craft. Part methodical, part soulful storyteller, he shares how that balance shapes both his music and his career.
From his blues-infused debut album Sinner-Songwriter to the vibrant bounce and soul of Good to Be Here, Phillip-Michael explains his artistic progression and why moving to Nashville was the next natural step in his creative journey.
“I respect the old and love the feeling of the old,” he says, “but bringing something new to it is the artist’s desire.”
He also talks candidly about wanting to perform original material rather than relying on cover songs, why mentorship requires real investment, and his belief that “competence breeds confidence.” Grounded by the unwavering support of his parents, Phillip-Michael is carving his own lane—honoring tradition while boldly shaping the future of his music.
This episode is about ambition, artistry, and building something authentic—note by note.
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Talking With Gerry McCambridge, The Mentalist – February 16, 2026

This week, Ira sits down with Gerry McCambridge, better known as The Mentalist, now performing at the V Theater inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas.

What started as a three-week contract turned into one of the longest-running mentalism shows in Las Vegas history. In this revealing episode, Gerry explains exactly why the show works — and why every performance is completely unique.

With as many as 75 audience members participating each night and nothing set up in advance, Gerry’s show is built on authentic, personal interaction. “Stick to what you do best,” he says — a philosophy that helped shape his brand and guide his move to the Strip, including his time at the legendary Stardust Resort and Casino.

Gerry opens up about mental rehearsal, rating his routines, learning from every audience, and how his sons — who work with him — provide honest feedback that keeps the show sharp. He also shares why Vegas audiences are unlike any other in the world… and why so many come back again and again.

It’s a fascinating look at longevity, branding, and mastering your craft in the entertainment capital of the world.

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