The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast

Ira sits down with powerhouse vocalist and performer Syndee Winters, currently starring in “Syndee Winters Sings Lena Horne: The Makings of a Lady” in Myron’s at The Smith Center on January 10.
Syndee shares her unique and deeply personal journey—from growing up in Queens as a first-generation American with Chinese-Jamaican roots, to discovering jazz through reg-gae, thanks to an uncle with a record label in Jamaica. With a background that spans musical theater, dance, and Broadway (including making a dream come true in “The Lion King”), Syndee’s artistry defies easy labels.
In this conversation, she opens up about being compared to Sarah Vaughan, finding Lena Horne through “The Wiz,” and why she doesn’t try to imitate Lena’s voice—but instead captures her spirit, strength, and elegance. Inspired by a suggestion from friend and Broadway star Chester Gregory, Syndee created a Broadway-style jazz concert in which she portrays nine different artists, all filtered through her own creative lens.
The episode is also a powerful reflection on believing in yourself, honoring mentors, showing up “properly,” and the importance of family—especially her parents who still physically show up for almost every performance. Syndee also explains why she’ll never “age out” of her Lena Horne tribute and how the jazz community welcomed her with open arms.
This is more than a show—it’s a celebration of legacy, identity, and artistry, told by an artist who knows exactly who she is.
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Talking With Ron Futrell – December 22, 2025

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira sits down with Ron Futrell, 8NewsNow sports anchor and reporter, for a wide-ranging, no-spin conversation about one of the biggest years in Las Vegas sports history.
From Major League Baseball officially coming to Las Vegas, Ron breaks down why locals were skeptical, what went wrong in Oakland under owner John Fisher, and why Vegas operates with a very different mindset: “Let’s make things happen.”
They dive into the Formula 1 race, the Raiders’ on-field struggles, UFC turning Allegiant Stadium into a boxing venue, and how the new baseball stadium could double as a game-changer for concerts that don’t quite fit Allegiant’s scale. Ron also tackles a topic locals feel deeply — Strip fees that drive residents away, and why places like South Point continue to thrive with free parking and reasonable prices.
The conversation widens to the big picture:
Are we getting too corporate in sports?
Will Las Vegas host another Super Bowl?
Is an NBA team inevitable?
Ron also highlights sports figures who made a real impact this year, including A’ja Wil-son, and reflects on gaming legend Bill Paulos’ lasting contributions to UNLV. Plus, he shares details on his new weekly show with George Knapp, “Mystery Wire,” now streaming via the 8 News Now app.
If you want to understand where Las Vegas sports have been — and where they’re headed next — this episode is a must-listen.
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Talking With Earl Turner – December 15, 2025

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas,” Ira sits down with Earl Turner—singer, song-writer, musician, dancer, and master storyteller ahead of his holiday show (joined by Elisa Fiorillo and Ken Young), “Another Very Soulful Christmas” lighting up Myron’s at The Smith Center, December 17–18.
In this episode, Earl reflects on a life shaped by music—from picking up the guitar at age 10 to learning a lesson (involving music) while preparing to perform in New Orleans. He opens up about what keeps the spark alive on stage, why music is such a powerful and personal art form, and how performers truly serve their audiences—and get just as much back in return.
Earl shares unforgettable moments, including the first time he saw James Brown and Diana Ross, and discusses his commanding on-stage persona that demands attention—while embracing a quieter, more grounded life offstage. He talks about the joy of both downtime and performance, the blessing of playing for audiences who genuinely want to be there, and how that energy fuels his work.
The conversation also dives into how “Another Very Soulful Christmas” came together—his first holiday show was in 2022—how he selects songs that inspire and lift spirits, why he chose Elisa Fiorillo and Ken Young as collaborators, and why he’s adding “Please Come Home for Christmas” to this year’s set. Earl also shares insights about fans who travel from out of town to see the show, priceless advice from Sammy Davis Jr., and the difference between inspiration and the hard work that turns it into something magical.
It’s a heartfelt, soulful, and joyful conversation—perfectly timed for the holiday season.
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Talking With Chuck Redd – December 8, 2025

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira”, Ira welcomes world-renowned vibraphonist and drummer Chuck Redd, bringing his acclaimed holiday show, “A Redd Christmas,” to Vic’s Las Vegas December 12-13.
Chuck shares remarkable stories from a life surrounded by jazz legends—including the great Red Norvo, who once had dinner at Chuck’s home and even gave him a private lesson. He reflects on his musical relationship with Barney Kessel, and the unforgettable lesson that who you are as a person is directly mirrored in your music. Chuck also talks about the influence of Milt Jackson, his work with Monty Alexander, Shelly Manne, Buddy Rich, and Bill Evans, and why he finds inspiration from younger musicians.
Other highlights include traveling secrets picked up over decades on the road, his daily practice rituals, and insights into why most jazz musicians remain grounded and humble—even amidst remarkable careers. Chuck also explains why part of being a great musician is being personable, thoughtful and always considering the audience—without pan-dering.
Plus, Chuck tells us why “A Redd Christmas” at Vic’s has become a beloved Las Vegas tradition, what audiences can expect (from holiday classics to mainstream jazz, blues, be-bop, and bossa nova), details of his brand-new Christmas album, featuring his brother Robert on piano, and the making of his original title track.
He also talks about what makes performing in Las Vegas uniquely meaningful—because the city reflects the history of American entertainment, including echoes of Frank Sinatra.
(Also Watch Full Podcast Video)