The Middle Ground

In this unforgettable episode of The Middle Ground, host Tom Letizia sits down with actor and storyteller Gianni Russo, best known for his role as Carlo Rizzi in The Godfather. From working with legends like Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, to real-life brushes with the mob and running his iconic State Street restaurant in Las Vegas, Gianni shares candid stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and reflections from a life lived at the intersection of Hollywood and the underworld.

On this episode of Middle Ground, host Tom Letizia sits down with Clark County Commissioner April Becker, who has uncovered a troubling misuse of public funds. Shortly after taking office, Becker learned that $10 million allocated to her district was already spent—with nearly $8 million redirected to the Commission Chairman’s district without a public vote or transparency.

Commissioner Becker shares the story, the facts she’s uncovered, and why this issue raises serious concerns about internal politics, fiscal oversight, and public trust in local government.

On this episode of The Middle Ground, host Tom Letizia sits down with prominent election attorney Bradley Schrager of Bravo Schrager to tackle the legal and political issues shaping Nevada and the nation. From record-low approval ratings for Democrats to the state of gridlock in Carson City, Schrager weighs in with sharp analysis and candid commentary.

We dig into:

• Who’s really leading the Democratic Party
• Why Nevada may be headed for another session of veto-heavy gridlock
• Grading Donald Trump’s and Joe Biden’s presidencies
• The 2026 governor’s race and the future of Nevada politics

On today’s episode of The Middle Ground with Tom Letizia, we shine a spotlight on one of the most influential voices in Nevada’s labor movement — Vince Saavedra, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Southern Nevada Building Trades.

Vince shares his inspiring journey from apprentice ironworker to leading a coalition representing thousands of union members across more than a dozen construction trades. We discuss the critical role organized labor plays in powering Southern Nevada’s economy, and Vince opens up about his advocacy for mental health, equity, and workforce development.

From first-time homeownership programs to youth career pathways, Vince Saavedra is helping build more than just buildings — he's building stronger communities.

Tune in for an impactful conversation about the value of skilled trades, the strength of union solidarity, and the future of Nevada’s workforce.

Voices of Justice & Compassion

On today’s episode of The Middle Ground with Tom Letizia, we spotlight two inspiring women who are making a real difference in Nevada’s legal and community landscape.

First, we welcomed Judge Jennifer Schwartz of Department 17 in the Eighth Judicial District Court. With over two decades of experience as a public defender, prosecutor, and civil attorney, Judge Schwartz shared her journey to the bench, her unique perspective on justice, and her deep commitment to public service.

Next, we were joined by Jennifer Page, President of the CASA Auxiliary and longtime CASA volunteer. Jennifer spoke passionately about her work advocating for children in foster care and how CASA volunteers ensure every child’s voice is heard in court.

Together, these two conversations offered powerful insight into how both the judicial system and community advocacy work hand-in-hand to protect the vulnerable and uphold justice.

On today’s episode of The Middle Ground, host Tom Letizia brings you a dynamic, justice-focused show featuring two distinguished guests shaping the future of our legal community.

First, we sit down with Judge Dawn Throne, Family Court Judge for Clark County’s Eighth Judicial District Court. Judge Throne shares her insights from decades on the bench, discussing the importance of fairness, compassion, and protecting children and families in the legal system. As she seeks re-election, Judge Throne reaffirms her commitment to making thoughtful, timely decisions that support Nevada families.

In the second half of the show, we welcome Adam Ganz, respected attorney, community leader, and 2026 candidate for District Court Judge. Adam talks about his career built on fairness, diligence, and a deep passion for protecting individual rights. He outlines his philosophy on the law, his dedication to promoting access to justice, and why he’s ready to serve from the District Court bench.

In this episode of The Middle Ground Radio Show, host Tom Letizia welcomes back Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson for a timely and in-depth discussion on the current state of justice in Southern Nevada.

Joined in-studio by Tom’s son Russell Letizia, the conversation explores the Nevada Legislature’s recent decision not to advance AB66, a bill that would have added more judges to relieve the growing strain on the courts. DA Wolfson shares his insights on the consequences of judicial overload, the role of prosecutorial discretion in today’s political climate, and how national legal trends are shaping local justice—including commentary on judicial accountability in light of recent headlines involving Michelle Fiore.

With experience, transparency, and direct answers, Wolfson offers listeners a rare inside look at the challenges and responsibilities of running Nevada’s largest law firm.

On today’s episode of The Middle Ground, host Tom Letizia sits down with Peter Guzman, President of the Latin Chamber of Commerce of Nevada, for a powerful and insightful conversation about the future of Nevada’s business community, the role of Latino leadership, and what it means to drive real impact at the grassroots level.

Now in his third appearance on the show, Peter shares updates on the Chamber’s initiatives to support small business growth, elevate educational access, and ensure diverse voices are at the table when policies are shaped. His candid take on politics, community building, and economic opportunity reminds us why he remains one of Nevada’s most respected and influential civic leaders.

Whether you're a business owner, policymaker, or someone who simply cares about where Nevada is headed — this episode delivers inspiration, insight, and action.

On today’s episode of The Middle Ground, host Tom Letizia sits down with Betsy Fretwell, a dynamic force in Southern Nevada’s growth and development. From her tenure as City Manager of Las Vegas during a time of major transformation, to her role today as CEO of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance, Betsy shares her journey and the lessons she’s learned from decades of leadership in both public and private sectors.

Together, they dive into the critical issues shaping the region’s future — from affordable housing, workforce development, and water planning, to smart infrastructure and economic diversification. Betsy also reflects on her time at Switch, a tech pioneer in Nevada, and how innovation and sustainability play a vital role in regional success.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation about what keeps leaders up at night, what’s working in Southern Nevada, and why she remains optimistic about the future of the Las Vegas Valley.

On this episode of The Middle Ground, host Tom Letizia welcomes one of Nevada’s most respected civic leaders and legal minds — Joe W. Brown.

With a career spanning decades in law, public service, business, and philanthropy, Joe shares powerful insights into what makes Nevada unique, the importance of civic responsibility, and the critical role of ethical leadership in today’s polarized political climate.

He reflects on his work with governors, his role in shaping Nevada’s energy and education sectors, and his deep involvement with UNLV and the National Judicial College. We also dive into his widely respected Bob Maheu Luncheon Series, a gathering rooted in mentorship, legacy, and honest dialogue.

Joe offers sharp analysis on the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race between Joe Lombardo and Aaron Ford, the re-election outlook for Senator Jacky Rosen, and the broader implications of open seats for Attorney General and Secretary of State.