The Middle Ground

The Middle Ground

By Tom LetiziaNewsPolitics
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The Middle Ground episodes

  • 🎙️ Inside the Courts: Judge Shell Mercer & Austin Beaumont Join The Middle Ground

    Today’s episode of The Middle Ground with Tom Letizia delivers a compelling look inside Nevada’s judicial landscape, featuring two guests who bring experience, insight, and a deep commitment to public service.

    At 8:00 AM, Family Court Judge Michele “Shell” Mercer joins the program to discuss her work on the bench, her approach to family law, and the challenges and rewards of serving families in Clark County. Judge Mercer shares thoughtful reflections on judicial integrity, community trust, and her ongoing efforts to support families navigating some of life’s most difficult moments.

    At 8:30 AM, Austin Beaumont, candidate for District Court Judge, steps into the studio to talk about his legal background, his reasons for seeking a judgeship, and his vision for improving the court system. Beaumont offers a candid look at the demands of the courtroom, the importance of fairness and preparation, and what drives him to serve.

    Together, these conversations provide listeners with a grounded, informative perspective on the people shaping our courts and the values guiding their work. Another strong morning on The Middle Ground—where Las Vegas comes for clarity, conversation, and thoughtful dialogue without partisan spin.

    54 min
  • Judge Greg Gordon on Transforming Nevada’s Family Courts: Informal Trials, Professionalism, and Childhood Literacy

    On today’s episode of The Middle Ground Radio Show, Tom Letizia welcomes back Judge Greg Gordon, one of Nevada’s most influential voices in modernizing the family court system.

    Judge Gordon opens up with personal reflections on growing up in Las Vegas, how the city shaped his values, and the early career experiences that prepared him for the bench.

    From there, the conversation dives into major developments affecting families across Nevada — including the Nevada Supreme Court’s approval of his Informal Family Law Trial Program as a permanent statewide rule change. Judge Gordon explains how this innovative model streamlines cases, reduces litigation burdens, and helps parents resolve disputes more efficiently and respectfully.

    He also previews a new professionalism initiative launching in January, bringing judges and attorneys together monthly to elevate civility, preparation, and courtroom conduct — a move aimed at improving outcomes for children and families.

    Outside the courtroom, Judge Gordon discusses his ongoing work with Spread the Word Nevada, highlighting the critical link between childhood literacy, long-term success, and community well-being.

    It’s a wide-ranging, insightful conversation with one of the most respected members of Nevada’s judiciary — blending personal stories, systemic reform, and a forward-looking vision for our courts.

    A must-listen episode for anyone interested in justice, community, and the future of Nevada’s families.

    55 min
  • Gwynneth Smith & Bob Stoldal Join The Middle Ground: Family Court, Nevada History & What Shapes Our Community

    Today’s episode of The Middle Ground Radio Show brings together two powerful voices shaping life in Nevada — one from the courtroom and one from the newsroom.

    At 8:00 AM, Family Court candidate Gwynneth Smith joins us to break down what families truly need from the judicial system, why experience matters on day one, and how judges can better resolve disputes with fairness, clarity, and compassion. Her insights offer listeners a grounded look at the real work Family Court performs every single day.

    At 8:30 AM, we welcome Bob Stoldal — Chair of The Nevada Independent, Chairman of the Board of the Nevada State Museum & Historical Society, and an icon of Nevada television. Bob shares stories, history, and a deep perspective on how journalism, museums, and community storytelling shape Nevada’s identity. His voice is one of the most respected in the state, and his conversation with Tom delivers both substance and a touch of nostalgia.

    Guided by Tom Letizia and Russell Letizia, this episode blends legal insight, Nevada history, and community leadership into one compelling hour of radio.

    55 min
  • A Power-Packed Morning on The Middle Ground: Odds, Justice, and Real Conversations

    On Wednesday’s edition of The Middle Ground with Tom Letizia, listeners get a dynamic one-two punch heading into the holiday weekend. At 8:00 AM, veteran oddsmaker Nick Bogdanovich from Boomer’s Sportsbook breaks down the full Thanksgiving football slate — from Detroit’s traditional home field matchup to the marquee Chiefs-Cowboys showdown and the primetime Bengals-Ravens battle. Nick brings his sharp insights, betting angles, and expert read on where the smart money is heading.

    Then at 8:30 AM, Tom welcomes Trent Richards, candidate for Henderson Justice Court, for an in-depth discussion on justice, community, and what’s at stake in this newly created court. Trent shares his background, his approach to the bench, and his vision for fairness and accountability in Henderson.

    Broadcast live from AM 670 KMZQ, this episode delivers exactly what The Middle Ground promises — smart analysis, real conversations, and politics without the partisan spin.

    55 min
  • Judges on Justice: Insight, Leadership & The Future of Our Courts

    On tomorrow’s edition of The Tom Letizia Show, we welcome two respected voices from Nevada’s legal community for a compelling hour on The Middle Ground: Politics Without Partisan Spin.

    At 8:00 AM, District Court Judge Jennifer Schwartz joins us to discuss the challenges and rewards of serving on the bench, the evolving landscape of Nevada’s courts, and her perspective on community engagement and judicial leadership. Judge Schwartz brings a wealth of experience and a thoughtful approach to justice that listeners won’t want to miss.

    At 8:30 AM, Emily McFarling, candidate for Family Court Judge, shares her vision for strengthening support for children and families across Clark County. With deep expertise in family law, she breaks down key issues facing the Family Court system and outlines her priorities for fairness, stability, and modernizing the court experience.

    Tune in for an informative, balanced, and engaging hour that highlights the people shaping our courts and protecting our community every day.

    54 min
  • Ro Khanna Unfiltered: Foreign Policy, Party Divisions & America’s Crossroads

    On today’s edition of The Middle Ground Radio Show, Tom Letizia and Russell Letizia sit down for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation with Congressman Ro Khanna, one of the most outspoken and influential voices in American politics.

    In this episode, the Congressman goes deep on the most pressing national issues — from polarization reaching historic levels, to the shifting dynamics inside the Democratic Party, to the escalating global challenges reshaping America’s role in the world.

    Khanna tackles tough questions on the House vote condemning socialism, the Democratic Party’s ideological divide, Nancy Pelosi’s rhetoric on Donald Trump, transparency surrounding the Epstein files, and the latest developments in Ukraine peace negotiations following reports of major progress out of Geneva.

    He also breaks down tensions between the progressive and centrist wings of his party, the political risk of recent votes, the future of NATO and Ukraine, and the path toward lowering the political temperature before the country tears itself apart.

    Plus — lighter moments, personal insights, and behind-the-scenes reflections that offer a rare look at the man behind the headlines.

    A sharp, honest conversation you won’t hear anywhere else.

    54 min
  • Inside the Odds & Inside the Courtroom: Nick Bogdanovich and Judge Veronica Barisich Join Tom Letizia

    On this episode of The Tom Letizia Show – The Middle Ground, Tom brings listeners two powerhouse conversations from the worlds of sports and justice.

    At 8:00 AM, veteran oddsmaker Nick Bogdanovich breaks down the latest insights from Boomers Sportsbook, offering his expert perspective on shifting lines, betting trends, and what sports fans should be watching as the season heats up.

    At 8:30 AM, Tom sits down with District Court Judge Veronica Barisich for a thoughtful, non-partisan conversation about the courts, community, and her work on the bench. The discussion brings clarity, context, and real-world insight—exactly what The Middle Ground is known for.

    Recorded live in the Middle Ground studio, this episode features a great behind-the-scenes moment with Judge Barisich, Russell Letizia, and Tom Letizia, captured in a photo now shared on our socials.

    54 min
  • Inside Nevada’s Recycling Powerhouse: A Conversation with Western Elite’s Scott Seastrand

    Today’s Middle Ground Radio Show delivered an inside look at one of Nevada’s most important — and often overlooked — industries: recycling and waste management. Scott Seastrand, Vice President of Western Elite, joined us for a fast-moving conversation about how modern recycling works, what’s changing in the industry, and why responsible waste management is becoming a cornerstone of Southern Nevada’s growth.

    Scott broke down the scale of Nevada’s recycling economy, highlighted Western Elite’s role as one of the region’s largest construction and demolition recyclers, and explained how technology is transforming everything from sorting lines to sustainability standards. He also shared insights on rapid growth in Southern Nevada, the demand for faster turnaround in dumpster services, and how companies like Western Elite help keep major construction projects clean, compliant, and moving on schedule.

    We also touched on Western Elite’s commitment to customer service — including their signature four-hour dumpster delivery guarantee — and the company’s growing emphasis on sustainability, diversion rates, and green-infrastructure partnerships across the valley.

    Overall, Scott gave our listeners a grounded, practical understanding of the recycling business, explained why it matters to Nevada’s economic future, and offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at an industry that keeps the region running smoothly every single day.

    54 min
  • Inside Sun City Summerlin & the O.J. Simpson Estate: Two Big Conversations on Today’s Show

    Today’s Middle Ground Radio Show featured two standout guests and two major topics.

    SEGMENT 1 — Mitzi Mills, Executive Director of Sun City Summerlin

    Mitzi gave us an inside look at running the largest active-adult community in Nevada — a true “city within a city” with 14,000 residents, a $20M+ budget, four clubhouses, three golf courses, and more than 80 clubs. She walked us through modernization efforts, community culture, and the future of 55+ living in America.
    We wrapped with a great lightning round and a studio photo with Russell Letizia, Mitzi Mills, and Tom Letizia.

    SEGMENT 2 — Attorney Malcolm LaVergne on the O.J. Simpson Estate

    Malcolm joined us to break down the estate’s decision to accept the $57.9M claim from Fred Goldman’s family. He explained the legal mechanics, estate assets, IRS priorities, and what happens next. He also discussed the broader lessons for accountability and high-profile estate management.

    A packed, informative show from start to finish.

    54 min
  • Inside the Courts & Live From Carson City: A Power-Packed Middle Ground Hour

    What a powerhouse hour we had this morning. We opened with Family Court Judge Heidi Almase, who delivered a candid, thoughtful look inside the realities of Family Court — the challenges, the cases, and the compassion required on the bench every single day. Her insights reminded listeners why our courts matter and why strong, steady judicial leadership is essential for Southern Nevada. ⚖️✨

    At 8:30, we went straight to Carson City for a live update from State Senator John Steinbeck, reporting in real time from the Special Legislative Session. Senator Steinbeck broke down the big-ticket items dominating the agenda — the governor’s crime bill, the film tax credit debate, and key healthcare provisions. His on-the-ground perspective gave listeners the context they’re not getting anywhere else. 🏛️📡

    Another lively, informative, and balanced hour — exactly what our listeners expect from The Middle Ground.

    54 min

About The Middle Ground

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The Middle Ground with Tom Letizia

Join veteran political consultant and media expert Tom Letizia on The Middle Ground, a daily political talk show offering a balanced and…