Mob Tales, Martinis, and Mayor Moments: An Evening with Oscar Goodman
Release Date: 01/30/2025
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David, Goliath, and the Rat: Oscar Goodman’s Legal Narratives
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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...
info_outlineJoin host Jonathan Jossel and legendary former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman in a special edition of the “On The Corner of Main Street” podcast—recorded live at Oscar’s Steakhouse during Oscar’s famous Dinner Series! In this wide-ranging (and always entertaining) conversation, Oscar dives into unforgettable stories from his days as a high-profile attorney, his time as mayor, and the colorful characters he’s encountered along the way.
From Philadelphia roots and Las Vegas lore to brushes with the FBI, mafia defense cases, and even a cameo in Casino, Oscar pulls no punches. You’ll hear about:
His early career defending reputed mobsters and the surprising twists that led him there
Tales of wiretaps, courtrooms, and the federal agents who always seemed to have him in their sights
Memorable run-ins with public figures—including judges, law enforcement, and Vegas icons
The (sometimes outrageous) behind-the-scenes moments that only Oscar can tell
Why he loves (and occasionally “hates”) certain aspects of the city he helped shape
Plus, you’ll get a taste of the camaraderie (and hilarious banter) that makes Oscar’s Dinner Series such a hit. If you’ve never been to one of these events at the Plaza, this episode will make you want to book the next date—just be sure not to talk while Oscar’s talking…or you might just “get whacked”!
Subscribe to “On The Corner of Main Street” for more fascinating deep dives into Las Vegas history, culture, and all the news around Downtown. And if you enjoy the show, please leave a review and share it with fellow Vegas fans!
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00:00 Welcome to Oscar's Dinner Series
02:38 Oscar's Rules and Stories
04:45 Introducing the Family and Friends
09:05 The Philadelphia Mob Stories Begin
20:13 The Trial and Legal Battles
29:31 Bitcoin and Personal Anecdotes
33:50 Joe Louis as a Character Witness
35:58 The Prosecutor's Unexpected Job Request
36:14 The Judge's Fascination with Joe Louis
37:07 Izzy's Daughter's News
37:45 Introduction to Dave Takeda and the DEA
39:47 The Airport Incident with Dave Takeda
41:54 The Opium Perfume Mix-Up
45:40 Richard Gordon's Misstep
49:42 Oscar Goodman's Dinner Series
50:29 Q&A Session Begins
50:57 Oscar's Journey to Becoming a Mob Attorney
55:14 Reflections on Leading Las Vegas
59:28 Favorite Moments and Cases
01:07:15 Closing Remarks and Dinner Announcement