Best KUNV Radio Podcasts (2025)

1
Dr. Chris Heavey Outlines Vision for UNLV, AI, and Prioritizes Student Success and Mental Health 27:15

4d ago27:15

27:15

Dr. Chris Heavey, the new interim president of UNLV, discussed his background, including his PhD from UCLA and his return to Las Vegas in 1992. He emphasized AI's impact on higher education, advocating for a "brace AI" approach to empower students. Heavey highlighted UNLV's priorities: student success, efficient resource management, and community s…

1
Explore On-Campus Living, Build Community, and Navigate Student Life at UNLV 30:00

11d ago30:00

30:00

In the "Let's Talk UNLV" podcast episode from May 11, 2025, hosts Dr. Sammie Scales and guests Makaylen and Kyle Broyard discuss the benefits of living on campus versus commuting. Michael, the Housing Operations Coordinator, highlights the convenience, support services, and community aspects of on-campus living, including theme floors for diverse s…

1
UNLV Celebrates Student Success with Cultural Ceremonies Honoring Diverse Graduates 30:00

18d ago30:00

30:00

The UNLV cultural celebrations for student success are set to begin on May 6 with the Lavender Celebration for LGBT graduating students, followed by the Asian Pacific Islander Middle Eastern Celebration on May 8 and the Latinx Celebration on May 11. The African Heritage Celebration will be held on May 16, coinciding with the post-baccalaureate grad…

1
Srishti Avesti Highlights UNLV’s Holistic Wellness Programs and Essential Student Resources 29:59

25d ago29:59

29:59

Srishti Avesti, a graduate assistant at UNLV's Wellness Center, discussed the university's comprehensive wellness programs. She highlighted the wellness wheel, which includes eight dimensions: occupational, spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, social, financial, and environmental wellness. UNLV offers various resources, such as the Student…

1
Monesia Hobbs Celebrates African Heritage, Student Achievement, and Community at UNLV Graduation 29:03

1M ago29:03

29:03

Monesia Hobbs, co-chair of the African Heritage Affinity Graduation Celebration at UNLV, discussed the significance of the event, which honors students with African heritage. The celebration, now in its 38th year, has evolved from an awards ceremony to a graduation event, emphasizing cultural elements like African drumming and elements of the Black…

1
Lisamarie Tomassetti Champions Campus Living, Student Engagement, and Housing Innovation at UNLV 4o 29:59

2M ago29:59

29:59

Lisamarie Tomassetti, Program Coordinator for Residential Education at UNLV, discussed the benefits of on-campus living, including convenience, access to resources, and community engagement. She highlighted the "Rebel Ready Week" for new students, free programming funded by housing fees, and the role of RAs in fostering student success. Theme floor…

1
Vincent Ingala Talks Music, Vegas, and His Love for Elvis 4:41

2M ago4:41

4:41

Vincent Ingala Talks Music, Vegas, and His Love for Elvis In a vibrant and heartfelt conversation, multi-instrumentalist and smooth jazz favorite Vincent Ingala joins Carlaya, “The Queen of Flow,” on 91.5 Jazz and More to talk about his upcoming show at Sunset Station and his deep connection to Las Vegas. Vincent shares his excitement about returni…

1
Championing Diversity: Jose Melendrez on UNLV’s Inclusion Efforts and Student Support 29:56

2M ago29:56

29:56

Jose Melendrez, Interim Vice President for Diversity Initiatives at UNLV, discussed his journey from a UNLV political science graduate to his current role, emphasizing his 18-year tenure and contributions to diversity initiatives. He highlighted UNLV's diverse student body, the growth of minority enrollment, and the institution's designations as a …

1
A Conversation with George Benson: Music, Memories, and the Magic of Las Vegas 4:22

2M ago4:22

4:22

Join host Carlaya for an exclusive conversation with legendary guitarist and vocalist George Benson as he reflects on his lifelong journey in music. From his early days performing in nightclubs as a child to becoming one of the most celebrated jazz and R&B artists, Benson shares insights into his passion for entertaining audiences, his deep connect…

1
Coach Cooper Shapes Champions: Accountability, Growth, and UNLV’s Rise 29:59

3M ago29:59

29:59

Coach Cooper, the Director of Football and Player Development at UNLV, shared his journey from East Texas to becoming a successful football player and coach. He emphasized the importance of accountability, availability, and durability in player development. Cooper highlighted UNLV's recent successes, including winning more games in the past 24 mont…

1
Celebrating Black Culture: Imani Patterson on UNLV’s Inaugural Black Mini Con 28:17

3M ago28:17

28:17

Imani Patterson, Senior Assistant Director for Student Diversity Programs at UNLV, discussed the upcoming Black Mini Con, a new event inspired by the Queer Mini Con and featuring various lectures on Black history and culture. The event, scheduled for February 25, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM, will cover topics like Black joy, the mis-education of Black…

1
Kyle Fairweather on Leadership, Mentorship, and Building Community at UNLV 29:59

3M ago29:59

29:59

Kyle Fairweather, president of UNLV's Collegiate 100 and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, shared his journey from Houston to UNLV, where he pursues an International Business major with a Japanese concentration. Kyle discussed his military background as a combat medic and his transition to UNLV. He highlighted the Collegiate 100's focus on professional d…

1
Richard Elliot loves playing Las Vegas 9:36

3M ago9:36

9:36

🎷 Richard Elliott: Keeping It Funky & Smooth 🎷 On this episode of 91.5 Jazz & More, we sit down with legendary saxophonist Richard Elliott ahead of his highly anticipated performance at Santa Fe Station in the Chrome Theater on Saturday, February 22nd. Richard shares his excitement about returning to Las Vegas, reflects on his decades-long career, …

1
Dr. Nicole Hudson Bridges Academia and Industry Through Workforce Development and Employer Partnerships 29:59

3M ago29:59

29:59

Dr. Nicole Hudson, Executive Director of Workforce Education at UNLV, discussed her non-traditional educational journey and career progression, including her roles in opening campuses and teaching online. She highlighted her current role in bridging academia and industry, focusing on workforce development and employer partnerships. Hudson emphasize…

1
Building Connections: Justin Griffin on Fundraising, Mentorship, and UNLV’s Future 29:52

4M ago29:52

29:52

Justin Griffin, Director of Development for the Lee Business School at UNLV, shared his journey from Tallahassee, Florida, to his current role. He discussed his background in football, education, and sports management, and his mentorship experiences. Griffin highlighted the importance of building relationships with alumni and donors, and detailed t…

1
Imani Patterson Highlights Black History Month and Welcome Weeks Events at UNLV 28:14

4M ago28:14

28:14

Imani Patterson, Senior Assistant Director for Student Diversity Programs at UNLV, discussed upcoming events for Black History Month and Welcome Weeks. Key events include meet and greets for various groups, such as African American, LGBTQ+, Latinx, and Native American students, with faculty and staff present to provide mentorship and resources. Pat…

1
Moms For Liberty in Las Vegas 37:15

4M ago37:15

37:15

Moms for Liberty ran three candidates for elected positions in the Las Vegas area. Two of them, Lorena Biasoti and Lydia Dominguez, won their races for Clark County School District Trustee. One, Tim Underwood, lost his bid to join the State Board of Education. We talked to Teddy Wilson, who tracks extremist groups, about who Moms for Liberty is and…

1
The Law That Upended Food Carts (Unintentionally) 28:50

4M ago28:50

28:50

In 2023, the Nevada legislature passed a bill regulating sidewalk vendors. You know, the people who sell corn and shaved ice in various parks, and near your grocery store. The law, SB92, was the first ever to regulate these micro-businesses. Many of the people who run food carts are immigrants, who are reaching for the American dream. But the regul…

1
Puppy Mills and Animal Overcrowding 37:00

4M ago37:00

37:00

Last summer, Henderson police went to a house to investigate a complaint from a neighbor. Police found the owners were running a puppy mill. That is, they were breeding young, female dogs and selling their pups for $2,000-$5,000. The residents had 39 dogs. 34 of them were French Bulldogs. Four of them were pregnant. There were also two horses, over…

1
Introducing the Civics Radio Network 45:05

4M ago45:05

45:05

The Civics Radio Network came out of a collaboration between Carrie Kaufman and Ashton Ridley to develop programming for KUNV Radio that had to do with civics and young people. They hit upon a 2-step process: a bootcamp to teach students civics and journalism, and a podcast for them to share what they learned. Ashton and Carrie talk about the proce…

1
You May Not Live in Las Vegas (Even if you live in Las Vegas) 27:48

4M ago27:48

27:48

So... Las Vegas isn't really in Las Vegas. Most people who live here don't know that. And most people who live here don't live in Las Vegas. About 650,000 people live in Las Vegas proper. That's represented by the green areas of the map above. The blue area is North Las Vegas - which is an actual city, not a description. Almost 300,000 people live …

1
UNLV Police Officers Discuss Safety, Community Outreach, and Campus Inclusivity 33:13

5M ago33:13

33:13

Dr. Sammie Scales interviews three officers from UNLV's Police Department (UPD). They discuss their backgrounds and roles, emphasizing community engagement and safety measures. Key points include the importance of the Rebel Safe App for emergency notifications, the presence of over 100 emergency phones, and the use of surveillance cameras. The offi…

1
Happy Holidays 30:00

6M ago30:00

30:00

Wishing everyone a very happy holiday with love and blessings from Bijon Watson & Niles Thomas.By Jazz Republic Entertainment Group, LLC

1
From Transfer Student to Educator: Lisa Marie Tomassetti on Res Life, Community Building, and Self-Care at UNLV 29:53

6M ago29:53

29:53

Lisa Marie Tomassetti, the Program Educator for Residential Education at UNLV, discussed her journey from a transfer student to her current role, highlighting her involvement in Res Life and higher education. She detailed the responsibilities of a Residential Life Coordinator (RLC), including managing buildings, supervising RAs, and handling conduc…

1
Ash Quinn Expands UNLV’s Basic Needs Program to Support Thousands of Students 30:00

6M ago30:00

30:00

Ash Quinn, coordinator for UNLV's Basic Needs Program, discussed their journey from a UNLV undergraduate to their current role, highlighting their work in housing and student diversity programs. They detailed the "Take What You Need" program, which distributes 18,000 items monthly, serving over 200 students. Quinn emphasized the importance of break…

1
André 3000 and the Freedoms of Artistry 29:49

7M ago29:49

29:49

Settle in and enjoy your Sunday morning brew as Bij and Niles discuss the freedom’s of being an artist such as André 3000, and the importance of pushing oneself beyond our comfort zones, exploring other music avenues and art mediums. Being true to your art and unapologetically so.By Jazz Republic Entertainment Group, LLC

1
Advancing Student Success and Inclusion: A Conversation with UNLV's Dr. Chris Heavey on Academic Excellence, DEI, and Campus Growth 29:42

7M ago29:42

29:42

Dr. Chris Heavey, UNLV's Executive Vice President and Provost, discussed his 32-year tenure at the university, emphasizing his role as the chief academic officer. He highlighted initiatives to support student success, such as monitoring engagement, providing personalized support, and creating a new chatbot for student inquiries. He also mentioned t…

1
Building Community: Kyle Broyard on Enhancing Student Housing and Inclusivity at UNLV 30:00

7M ago30:00

30:00

Kyle Broyard, the Housing Assignment Coordinator at UNLV, shared his journey from graduating high school at 17 to his current role. He discussed managing room assignments for 1,800 students, emphasizing the use of the Housing Director tool for accurate billing and student preferences. Broyard highlighted the importance of DEI in roommate matching a…

1
Navigating Career Success: AJ Angulo on Preparing Students for the Evolving Job Market 30:00

7M ago30:00

30:00

AJ Angulo, a Career and Life Design Specialist at UNLV, discussed his career journey from psychology to career coaching, emphasizing the importance of career readiness for students. He detailed the services offered by UNLV's career coaching, including resume assistance, mock interviews, and job search strategies. Angulo highlighted the significance…

1
Empowering Student Athletes: Phillip Haynes III on Development, Balance, and Support Programs at UNLV 29:01

7M ago29:01

29:01

Phillip Haynes III, Director of Student Athlete Development at UNLV, shared his journey from playing football at UNLV to working in student athlete development. He highlighted the Empower Her program funded by the Diana Bennett family foundation, aimed at women student athletes and allies. Haynes emphasized the importance of balancing academics, at…

1
This Conversation Is A Wild Card 30:00

8M ago30:00

30:00

Settle in and enjoy your Sunday morning brew as Bij and Niles discuss a little of everything and nothing. From their recent concert performance at The Smith Center, to celebrating Sting’s birthday month and his influence on both Bijon and Niles’ music, to Niles’ new Rockabilly Swing band “The Velveteen Rabbits”, Bijon’s time touring with Harry Conn…

1
Empowering Diversity: Isabel Herrera-Pedro on Leadership, DEI Initiatives, and Student Engagement at UNLV 30:00

8M ago30:00

30:00

Isabel Herrera-Pedro, from UNLV's Student Diversity Programs, discussed her educational journey from Clark High School to Utah Tech University, where she pursued a Criminal Justice undergraduate degree and is currently working on a Public Administration master's. She highlighted her role in DEI initiatives, including organizing events like the Hisp…

1
From La Puente to UNLV: Mario Rodriguez on Empowering Students, Overcoming Financial Barriers, and Building Supportive Communities 29:54

8M ago29:54

29:54

Mario Rodriguez, Assistant Director for Multicultural and STEM Pipelines at UNLV, shared his journey from La Puente, California, to UNLV, highlighting his financial constraints and the importance of scholarships. He emphasized the significance of family influence and the value of a college education. Rodriguez discussed his role in supporting K-20 …

1
Empowering First-Generation and Diverse Students: Dr. Harriet Barlow on the Intersection’s Mission and Impact at UNLV 29:47

8M ago29:47

29:47

Dr. Harriet Barlow, Executive Director of the Intersection Academic Multicultural Resource Center at UNLV, discussed her 27-year tenure and the center's role in supporting first-generation and students of color. The Intersection, established in 2017, offers academic support, financial counseling, and a snack pantry funded by CSUN and MSI. Barlow hi…

1
From Student Leader to Diversity Advocate: Imani Patterson's Journey and Empowering UNLV's Student Community 30:00

8M ago30:00

30:00

Imani Patterson, Senior Assistant Director of Student Diversity Programs at UNLV, shared her journey from being a top student at Valley High School to her current role. She highlighted her involvement in the Black Student Organization, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and her transition from fraternity and sorority life to student diversity programs. Pa…

1
Can jazz move you to tears? 30:00

9M ago30:00

30:00

Settle in and enjoy your Sunday morning brew as Bij and Niles discuss whether or not “jazz” can move a listener to tears, or is it too busy and complex to move a listener emotionally? Bij and Niles also dive into the dangers in throwing around the word “Great” when expressing one’s thoughts of a singer – particularly when trying to discern the diff…

1
Talkin’ ‘bout our upcoming concert at The Smith Center on Sept. 10th. 30:01

10M ago30:01

30:01

Summer break is over! Bijon is back from his family cruise vacation and getting ready to get back to teaching at Berklee College of Music. Niles talks about shedding his brooding artist image with his new music project, The Velveteen Rabbits – a mix of swing, rockabilly, jazz and jump blues. He’s bringing in the horn section, Folks; he’s bringing i…

1
Toggling Between Jazz Republic Shows & Home Repair and Renovation Projects 29:57

11M ago29:57

29:57

Sit back, relax and enjoy your Sunday morning brew as Bijon & Niles discuss their upcoming shows in Las Vegas with The Jazz Republic Revue while toggling between Bijon’s home repairs and Niles’ kitchen renovations. The pleasures and freedoms of performing in small intimate clubs, to the intricacies of performing on larger stages in bigger venues su…

1
Empowering Students: The Impact of Peer Mentorship at UNLV 30:00

11M ago30:00

30:00

In this episode of Let's Talk UNLV, we welcome back Dr. Lauren Gatto, Assistant Director of First Year Experience at UNLV, along with peer mentors Sky and Georgia. They share their journeys and insights into the transformative power of peer mentorship. Discover how peer mentors at UNLV support new students in navigating the challenges of college li…

1
Patricia Gatlin, UNLV's Talent Acquisition Coordinator 28:16

11M ago28:16

28:16

Dr. Sammie Scales sits down for an in-depth interview with Patricia Gatlin, UNLV's Talent Acquisition Coordinator.By Dr. Sammie Scales

1
Navigating the First Year: UNLV's FYE Program 29:15

12M ago29:15

29:15

Join Dr. Lauren Gatto, assistant director of UNLV's First Year Experience (FYE) Program, as she delves into the journey of incoming students at the university. From orientation to personalized support, Dr. Gatto discusses how FYE fosters a sense of belonging, provides essential resources, and empowers students to navigate the challenges of their fi…

1
Featuring Special Guest, Singer/Dancer David “Pop Tart” Morris 29:57

12M ago29:57

29:57

Sit back, relax and enjoy your Sunday morning brew as Bijon & Niles bond with an old dear friend and music collaborator, singer/dancer David “Pop Tart” Morris – a 20+ year Disney entertainer. Touching on topics that include the complexities of getting on Broadway Shows, to the entertainment in Las Vegas, being fearlessly authentic, to the importanc…

1
Preparing for Campus Life: Housing Insights and Advice for Incoming UNLV Students 30:01

12M ago30:01

30:01

In this episode of "Let's Talk UNLV," join us as we dive into the essentials of campus housing with Mr. Tem Sedgwick, the Assistant Director for Residential Life at UNLV. Tem shares his journey and extensive experience at the university, highlights the benefits of living on campus, and outlines the unique features of UNLV's residence halls, includi…

1
From Shower Singer to Opera Star: The Inspirational Journey of Christian Shelton 30:00

12M ago30:00

30:00

Join Dr. Scales in an engaging conversation with Christian Shelton, a remarkable voice talent and Las Vegas native, on this episode of Let's Talk UNLV. Discover Christian's journey from discovering his passion for singing in high school to becoming a celebrated opera performer at UNLV. Learn about his family's musical legacy, influential mentors li…

1
Engineering the Future: Innovations, Opportunities, and Hands-On Learning at UNLV 30:00

1y ago30:00

30:00

Join Dr. Sammie Scales as he hosts a captivating conversation with Dr. Rama Venkat, the Dean of Engineering at UNLV. Dr. Venkat shares his inspiring journey from South India to becoming a pioneering figure in engineering education. They delve into UNLV's cutting-edge engineering programs, including the revolutionary Entertainment Engineering degree…

1
A Spring Time Music Mix Tape 29:57

1y ago29:57

29:57

Bij and Niles introduce some of their original music recordings to their new radio listeners and reflect upon what they have done, and prepare for what they have coming up. Tune-in as Bijon and Niles regale us with stories behind-the-songs from their freshman album “It’s A Crossover Thang” that gained recognition from The Recording Academy and up f…

1
Celebrating Diversity: UNLV's Affinity Graduations 29:02

1y ago29:02

29:02

Join Dr. Sammie Scales and special guest Dr. Reyes Luna, Director of Student Diversity Programs at UNLV, as they discuss the origins and significance of UNLV's affinity graduations. From the unique journey of Dr. Luna to the intricate planning process behind these cultural celebrations, discover how UNLV's affinity graduations foster inclusivity, h…

1
Jan Jan (Part II) 27:22

1y ago27:22

27:22

By Melikabella Shenouda

1
Bridging Cultures: UNLV Global Ambassador Program 29:20

1y ago29:20

29:20

Join Dr. Tanya Crabb and Dr. Sammie Scales on Let's Talk UNLV as they dive into the enriching journey of Natalie Chan, a GA from UNLV's Global Education Initiative. Natalie shares her origin story from Hong Kong to UNLV, highlighting her transition from journalism to family therapy and her pivotal role as a Global Ambassador. Explore the challenges…

1
Jan Jan (Part I) 29:31

1y ago29:31

29:31

By Melikabella Shenouda

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