The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira welcomes acclaimed vocalist Jonathan Karrant, who brings his celebrated tribute to legendary composer and songwriter Cole Porter to Myron's at The Smith Center on June 9. Jonathan reflects on his own journey from Ft. Smith, Arkansas to Manhattan, Los Angeles and ultimately Las Vegas, where he has become one of the city’s most respected interpreters of the Great American Songbook.
Jonathan shares how, at a very young age, he fell in love with classic standards after discovering compilation albums by Ella Fitzgerald and Julie London, which introduced him to the sophisticated wit and emotional depth of Cole Porter’s music. Calling the Great American Songbook “America’s poetry,” Jonathan explains why these timeless songs continue to resonate across generations, adapting effortlessly into swing, waltz and count-less musical styles.
The conversation also explores Jonathan’s deep connection with live audiences, which he describes as an ongoing “conversation,” and how audience energy shapes every perfor-mance. He discusses his passion for recording music in the studio, preserving moments in time through albums. Jonathan also talks about collaborating with jazz singer and pianist Diane Schuur and performing his latest single with her, “Caught a Touch of Your Love,” from the album Full Circle.
Filled with stories about music, artistry, sophistication and timeless songwriting, this episode is a must-listen for fans of jazz, cabaret and the enduring brilliance of the Great American Songbook.
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CATHY RICH AND GREGG POTTER CELEBRATE THE MUSIC OF BUDDY RICH

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with Cathy Rich, daughter of legendary drummer Buddy Rich, along with Emmy Award-winning drummer Gregg Potter, as they bring The Buddy Rich Big Band Machine to Myron’s at The Smith Center on May 30.
In this engaging conversation, Cathy and Gregg discuss Buddy Rich’s lasting legacy and Cathy’s promise to her father to keep his music alive for future generations. They talk about taking the band around the world, evolving from the original Buddy Rich Memorial Concerts featuring legendary guest drummers into a full-fledged touring road band that captures the power, excitement and intensity Buddy Rich was known for.
Cathy and Gregg reveal the chemistry that keeps the show authentic, respectful and electrifying, while sharing stories about Buddy’s incredible musicianship, demanding standards and unforgettable personality.
Gregg jokes about being the “Temu Buddy Rich,” but explains that his mission is not imitation—it’s honoring Buddy’s explosive energy, precision and relentless tempo while bringing his own style and passion to the stage.
The episode also explores Buddy Rich alumni joining the band on tour, the technical challenges of recreating Buddy’s legendary arrangements. Cathy shares memories of growing up in Las Vegas and tells personal stories fans still love hearing decades later.
From the emotional opening number “From the Jump” to a stage setup modeled after Buddy’s original performances, every detail of The Buddy Rich Big Band Machine is designed to celebrate one of the greatest drummers in music history. As Gregg explains, there’s simply nothing like the raw, “in your face” power of a true big band experience.
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LAUGH FACTORY FAVORITE BILL DAWES TALKS COMEDY, DISCIPLINE & LIFE

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with comedian Bill Dawes, performing in The Laugh Factory at Horseshoe Las Vegas May 18–24.
In this engaging episode, Bill shares how he made the leap from acting to stand-up comedy after growing frustrated with the lack of collaboration in acting roles and constantly hearing, “just say your lines.” Encouraged by a college friend to try an open mic, Bill admits he bombed badly the first time—but that experience sparked something bigger. He realized failure wasn’t fatal, and he became determined to improve.
Bill reflects on more than 20 years in comedy, discussing why stand-up is one of the most unique and demanding art forms, the importance of strong writing, and how personal truth creates universal comedy. He also talks about being recruited by Wall Street after college, learning discipline through comedy, and how legendary comedy club owner Ja-mie Masada became one of his mentors.

The conversation also explores how social media has transformed comedy audiences, why certain jokes work everywhere, and how performing at The Laugh Factory became one of his biggest career goals.
It’s a funny, insightful, and honest conversation about persistence, creativity, and finding your authentic voice on stage.
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SOURDOUGH, HOSPITALITY & HERITAGE: INSIDE MONZÚ ITALIAN OVEN + BAR

Chef-driven cuisine. Handmade sourdough. Italian tradition. Genuine hospitality. This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with Monzú Italian Oven + Bar Chef Owner Gio Mauro for an inspiring conversation about food, family, craftsmanship, and purpose.
Born in the United States, raised in Italy, and eventually returning to America, Gio Mauro shares how his international upbringing shaped his culinary identity and deep respect for food lineage. He explains the meaning behind the name “Monzú,” a historic term synon-ymous with “chef,” and why his philosophy centers around one powerful belief: “Simplicity is an art form.”
In this episode, Chef Gio discusses the importance of integrity in the restaurant industry, building a business rooted in “sincere hospitality,” and serving both locals and visitors in the heart of Las Vegas. He also reveals the fascinating story behind Monzú’s famous sour-dough bread — including his extensive research into traditional bread-making techniques, imported Italian yeast strains, and his commitment to honoring old-world methods.
From a 100% Italian wine list to creating meaningful guest experiences, Gio Mauro shares why purpose, community, and defending the hospitality industry matter now more than ever.
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