From Intern to President: Marc Badain's Journey in Sports
On the Corner of Main Street
In this episode Jonathan and Gary welcome Mark Badain, President of the Oakland Athletics. Mark shares his journey from starting as an intern with the Raiders to becoming the team president, overseeing their move to Allegiant Stadium, and now working on building a world-class ballpark on the Las Vegas strip. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities of relocating sports franchises, the financial and community impacts of stadium projects, and the excitement surrounding the A's new ballpark in Vegas. Mark also reflects on the passionate fan reactions and the collaborative efforts...
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Revitalizing Rio: Patrick Miller's Vision for a Las Vegas Icon
On the Corner of Main Street
This episode, Jonathan and Gary dive straight into a special discussion with Patrick Miller, President and CEO of the Rio Hotel and Casino. Patrick discusses the revitalization of one of Las Vegas' most iconic resorts, sharing his extensive experience from properties like Park MGM and New York-New York to now leading the transformation of the Rio. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, from record-breaking wing-eating contests at the Plaza to Patrick's career journey starting as a pit clerk at the Mirage. Get insights into the new developments at the Rio, including a fresh partnership with...
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Hospitality and History: Oscar's Inside Story with Nick Ziai
On the Corner of Main Street
In this episode Jonathan and Gary welcome Oscar Goodman and long-time server Nick Ziai. The discussion spans a variety of topics including life at the Plaza, the evolution of downtown Las Vegas, and the unique charm of classic Vegas hospitality. Nick shares his experiences working in renowned restaurants like Golden Steer and MGM Grand, while Oscar reminisces about the old Las Vegas days. The episode highlights the importance of human connection in the restaurant industry and an unwavering dedication to customer service.
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Joe Asher's Journey in the Sports Betting World
On the Corner of Main Street
In this episode, Jonathan and Gary are joined by Joe Asher, a seasoned expert in the sports betting industry, making his third appearance on the podcast. They delve into Joe's extensive career, including his experiences running Brandywine Bookmaking, the US expansion of William Hill, and his tenure at IGT. The discussion covers significant regulatory challenges, reasons for the lack of DraftKings and FanDuel in Nevada, and Joe's new venture Boomer's Sports Book. They also explore the future of sports betting in Nevada, the importance of in-person signups, and the competitive landscape against...
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David, Goliath, and the Rat: Oscar Goodman’s Legal Narratives
On the Corner of Main Street
Join us at Oscar's Steakhouse inside the Plaza Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas for a captivating Dinner Series event. Hosted by Plaza CEO Jonathan Jossel and featuring legendary former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, this episode delves into various entertaining stories from Vegas history, notable legal cases, and personal anecdotes. Goodman shares his experiences with prominent figures like Tony Spilotro and Jay Sarno, and recounts memorable courtroom moments, including his unique strategies for jury selection and handling government informants. The episode also includes a lively Q&A...
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Behind the Cards: Inside Vegas' Advantage Play
On the Corner of Main Street
Join Jonathan Jossel and Gary Vickery in a fascinating conversation with Michael Kaplan, author of 'Advantage Players: Inside the Winning World of Casino'. They delve into the intriguing world of gamblers who legally outsmart casinos, including card counters, slot hustlers, and other savvy players. Kaplan shares stories about notable figures like Anthony Curtis, Kelly Sun, and sports bettor Don Johnson, emphasizing that advantage playing extends beyond gambling into everyday life.
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Unveiling Vegas: Insights with Scott Roeben of Vital Vegas
On the Corner of Main Street
In this latest episode, Jonathan and Gary welcome back Scott Roeben of Vital Vegas. They delve into various Las Vegas-related topics, starting with the use of AI in hospitality and entertainment. Scott discusses his experience with AI for research and story writing, highlighting its increasingly significant role. The conversation shifts to recent changes and potential developments in downtown Las Vegas, including updates on the Sand Dollar Lounge and speculation about new casino projects on Symphony Park. They also touch on WrestleMania potentially returning to Vegas and its impact compared to...
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BONUS EPISODE Las Vegas Advisor Interview: Jonathan Jossel; Plaza Ceo
On the Corner of Main Street
Join us for an insightful episode of the Las Vegas Advisor interview series featuring Jonathan Jossel, the visionary CEO of the Plaza Hotel and Casino. Jonathan shares his journey from South Africa to Las Vegas, navigating through the Great Recession, and becoming one of the youngest licensees in Nevada at 29. We delve into the Plaza's unique strategies like looser games, single zero roulette, and innovative promotions. Jonathan also discusses the challenges and successes of the Las Vegas casino industry, including the impact of influencers, the importance of customer satisfaction, and the...
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Bonus Episode - Honoring Service: Easy Day Foundation at the AMAs
On the Corner of Main Street
In this bonus episode, Jonathan and Gary welcome two distinguished guests, Frank Fertitta IV, a prominent figure in the Vegas gaming industry, and Landon Gyulay, a US Navy veteran. Together, they discuss their nonprofit organization, The Easy Day Foundation, focused on supporting veterans and first responders. Discover the inspiration behind Easy Day, the mission to assist veterans in reintegration, and the exciting partnership with the American Music Awards to raise funds and awareness. Don't miss this powerful conversation and learn how you can contribute to the cause.
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Mike Davis: The Voice of Vegas Sports and Spectacle
On the Corner of Main Street
Join Jonathan and Gary as they welcome Mike Davis — longtime Las Vegas media personality and host of the Silver State Sports & Entertainment Network — for a fast-paced, funny, and refreshingly honest conversation. From his start interning for Howard Stern to navigating Vegas media, Mike shares behind-the-scenes stories about celebrity interviews, pandemic-era reporting, and his vision for local sports coverage in Las Vegas. This episode dives into the evolution of entertainment journalism, the rise of social media influencers in gaming, and how Vegas is becoming America’s next...
info_outlineIn this special episode, recorded live from Oscar's Dinner Series, former Las Vegas mayor and famed criminal defense lawyer, Oscar Goodman, dives deep into the complexities of defending the most notorious figures in Las Vegas history. With his signature wit and unfiltered stories, Oscar takes the audience on a journey through his legal career, where he represented individuals many would consider "indefensible."
From humorous anecdotes about courtroom antics to insightful reflections on the U.S. justice system, Oscar reveals why he chose to stand up for his clients, even when public opinion was against them. Along the way, he discusses infamous cases, exposes government misconduct, and reminds us all of the importance of the Constitution.
If you're a fan of Las Vegas history, mob stories, or just love a good tale about the legal system, this is an episode you won't want to miss!
Hosted by Jonathon Jossel, CEO of the Plaza Hotel & Casino.
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