On the Corner of Main Street - podcast cover

On the Corner of Main Street

Plaza Hotel and Casinoplazahotelcasino.com
On the Corner of Main Street provides an inside scoop on downtown Las Vegas. From gaming and special events to new projects and the growing art scene, hear straight from the amazing people who are making downtown Las Vegas a unique and fast-growing destination. Recorded at the Plaza Hotel & Casino – on the corner of Main Street – Plaza CEO Jonathan Jossel will be joined by special guests, including gaming industry leaders, entertainers, local officials and downtown partners, who will share their own exclusive and often entertaining perspective on where Vegas got its start and where it’s going now. Hosted by Lisa Melmed, Jonathan Jossel and Gary Vickery.
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

Joe Asher's Journey in the Sports Betting World

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 s...

Jul 17, 202550 min

David, Goliath, and the Rat: Oscar Goodman’s Legal Narratives

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 j...

Jul 04, 20251 hr 2 min

Behind the Cards: Inside Vegas' Advantage Play

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.

Jun 19, 202540 min

Unveiling Vegas: Insights with Scott Roeben of Vital Vegas

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 Symp...

Jun 05, 20251 hr 10 min

BONUS EPISODE Las Vegas Advisor Interview: Jonathan Jossel; Plaza Ceo

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...

Jun 04, 202551 min

Bonus Episode - Honoring Service: Easy Day Foundation at the AMAs

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 m...

May 22, 202533 min

Mike Davis: The Voice of Vegas Sports and Spectacle

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, t...

May 15, 20251 hr 5 min

Beyond the Canopy: Andrew Simon on Fremont's Transformation

Join Jonathan and Gary as they talk with Andrew Simon, President of the Fremont Street Experience. This episode dives deep into the history, innovations, and challenges of Fremont Street, featuring insights on public safety, marketing strategies, and future plans for downtown Las Vegas. Learn about Andrew's early career at the Mirage, the role of street performers, and the economic impact of events like WrestleMania. Discover the importance of kindness and community in career growth and business...

May 01, 20251 hr

From the Courtroom to City Hall - Oscar Goodman's Journey

Join us for an evening with former mayor Oscar Goodman as he recounts intriguing stories from the city's mob era, highlighting figures such as Tony Spilotro and Frank Rosenthal. Delve into Oscar's career as a defense lawyer for reputed mobsters, his personal anecdotes, and legal battles that defined Las Vegas. With humor and history intertwined, Oscar shares his unique experiences, including the origins of the Black Book and pivotal court cases. Engage in a nostalgic journey through Sin City's m...

Apr 17, 20251 hr 7 min

Vegas Stories with Brittney Palmer: Art, UFC, and More

Join Jonathan and Gary as they sit down with multi-talented artist and former UFC Ring Girl, Brittney Palmer. In this episode, Brittney shares her journey from dancing and cocktail waitressing in Las Vegas to becoming an internationally celebrated artist. Listen in as Brittney talks about her experiences growing up in Las Vegas, working as a ring girl for the UFC, her transition into the art world, and the stereotypes she overcame. Hear her discuss key moments like painting Conor McGregor's port...

Apr 03, 202548 min

From Gaming Regulation to Raider Nation: Sandra Douglass Morgan

Description: In this episode, Jonathan and Gary interview Sandra Douglas Morgan, President of the Las Vegas Raiders. Morgan discusses her journey from a Las Vegas native to a pioneering leader in sports, touching on topics such as her upbringing, extensive background in gaming regulation, and transition to her current role. They also explore the impact of Allegiant Stadium on the city's growth, her responsibilities as Raiders President, and navigating challenges, including the pandemic and integ...

Mar 20, 202544 min

Five Years of Plaza Podcast: Milestones and Memories

In this special 5th anniversary episode of 'On the Corner of Main Street', hosts Jonathan Jossel and Gary Vickery welcome guest Scott Roben of Vital Vegas for his 5th appearance. They discuss significant investments at the Plaza, including remodeling table games, introducing new food and beverage options, and collaborating with social media influencers like Brian Christopher. The conversation delves into broader market trends affecting Las Vegas, including gaming revenue, the impact of Super Bow...

Feb 13, 20251 hr 12 min

Mob Tales, Martinis, and Mayor Moments: An Evening with Oscar Goodman

Join 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...

Jan 30, 20251 hr 8 minEp. 144

Legends & Las Vegas: A Conversation with Casino Pioneer's Barry Shier & Oliver Lovat

In this visually enhanced episode, recorded at Oscar’s Steakhouse inside the Plaza Hotel & Casino, Plaza CEO Jonathan Jossel sits down with Barry Shier—one of Vegas’s most respected gaming executives and a central figure in Steve Wynn’s Golden Nugget era. Joined by Vegas historian (and regular guest) Oliver Lovat, they explore the origins of the Fremont Street Experience, the high standards and hands-on culture that defined Mirage Resorts, and the art of providing top-tier hospitality. From ...

Jan 16, 20251 hr 7 minEp. 143

From ETGs to Marbles: John Connelly of Interblock on the Next Wave of Casino Gaming

Jonathan and Gary sit down with John Connelly—CEO of Interblock and a major force in gaming innovation—to explore where the industry is headed next. John breaks down the rise of Electronic Table Games (ETGs), reveals how COVID actually helped Interblock double in size, and teases Amuse, their brand-new “fourth category” of casino entertainment. Get an inside look at G2E, the shift toward chipless tables, and why marbles and bingo just might be the future of Vegas floors. If you’re curious about ...

Jan 03, 202550 minEp. 142

Mayor Shelley Berkeley: From Goodman to Good Woman

In this special episode of “On the Corner of Main Street,” recorded right in the heart of Oscar’s Steakhouse, we’re honored to welcome the newly sworn-in 24th Mayor of Las Vegas, Shelley Berkley. After nearly 25 years under the Goodmans, the city is entering an exciting new chapter—and Mayor Berkley’s first week on the job has already given her plenty to dig into. Join hosts Jonathan and Gary as they sit down with Mayor Berkley to explore her extraordinary personal journey—coming to Las Vegas as...

Dec 19, 202442 minEp. 141

Oscar Goodman Unfiltered: Tales from the Mob Era to the Mayor’s Office

Dive into this episode of On the Corner of Main Street where legendary former mayor Oscar Goodman delivers an unfiltered and entertaining reflection on his journey through Las Vegas' storied past. From representing mob figures to reshaping the city as its mayor, Goodman shares candid anecdotes, surprising epiphanies, and thought-provoking insights. Discover his take on the evolution of Vegas, the difference between old-school mobsters and today’s corporate executives, and his most memorable mome...

Dec 05, 202454 minEp. 140

Exploring Las Vegas with Travel Ruby

Join us for a fascinating episode of On The Corner of Main Street as we welcome Elyse Schultz, better known as Travel Ruby! Discover her journey from pastry chef in Wisconsin to one of Las Vegas's top influencers. Elyse shares insights on the evolving role of influencers in the hospitality industry, her favorite Vegas spots, and how she and her husband built a thriving YouTube channel. Plus, hear behind-the-scenes stories about Vegas trends, tips for maximizing your trip, and what it's like to l...

Nov 21, 202459 minEp. 138

Power Moves and Vegas Legends: Alex Yemenidjian on Building the Strip

In this episode of On the Corner of Main Street, Jonathan Jossel and Gary Vickery sit down with the legendary Alex Yemenidjian, former CEO of MGM Studios and Tropicana Las Vegas. Alex shares his fascinating journey from Argentina to Los Angeles, his career beginnings in accounting, and his unexpected yet influential relationship with Kirk Kerkorian, one of the most iconic figures in Las Vegas history. Alex discusses the transformations in Las Vegas, from the early days of big personalities like ...

Nov 07, 202450 minEp. 138

Vernon “The Mechanic” Cathey

In this episode of On the Corner of Main Street , the Plaza team sits down with Vernon "The Mechanic" Cathey, the number one ranked light heavyweight in Power Slap, the fast-growing sport sweeping Las Vegas. Vernon shares his journey from MMA and the Highland Games to (hopefully) becoming a Power Slap champion. He talks about the intricacies of the sport, training methods, and what it's like to stand in front of an opponent with no option but to take a slap. With commentary from co-hosts Jonatha...

Oct 24, 202436 minEp. 137

How Can You Defend the Indefensible?

In 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. ...

Oct 08, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 136

A Big Beautiful Podcast

Join Jonathan Jossel, CEO of The Plaza, as he sits down with special guest Grant Garcia to chat about the Life is Beautiful festival's new chapter at The Plaza. In this exclusive bonus episode, they dive into the festival’s rich history, how it came full circle back to The Plaza, and the challenges of transforming the venue into a block party festival experience. From the origins of Life is Beautiful to its new format, hear stories from behind the scenes and learn about the intricate logistics i...

Sep 27, 202419 min

Vegas Starfish: Navigating the New Vegas with Jennifer Gay

In this episode of "On The Corner of Main Street," social media powerhouse and Vegas influencer Jennifer Gay, aka Vegas Starfish, joins the show to discuss her journey from journalism to becoming one of the most sought-after Vegas content creators. With over a billion views, Jennifer shares her insights on the changing face of Las Vegas tourism, from hidden gems to navigating the post-COVID landscape, and how she balances authenticity with her ever-growing platform. Join us for an engaging conve...

Sep 23, 20241 hr 16 minEp. 135

The Vegas Advantage: Insider Tips with John Mehaffey and Kristina Mehaffey

Join host Jonathan Jossel as he welcomes John Mehaffey and Kristina Mehaffey, the experts behind VegasAdvantage.com, to Oscar's Steakhouse on the Corner of Main Street. In this episode, they dive deep into the world of Las Vegas gambling, sharing insider tips and strategies that can transform your next Vegas trip. Discover rare high-value video poker machines, the city’s only 100% payback Joker Poker, and the best gaming spots downtown. Plus, hear fascinating stories from John and Christina’s re...

Sep 12, 202446 minEp. 134

Cashless Future: Charlie Skinner on Revolutionizing Gaming with Marker Trax

In this episode of On The Corner of Main Street , Jonathan Jossel sits down with Charlie Skinner, the president of Marker Trax, to discuss the groundbreaking shift towards cashless gaming. Charlie shares his unique journey through the world of casinos, from growing up in a family entrenched in Las Vegas history to pioneering a digital credit platform that’s set to revolutionize how we play and pay on the casino floor. Dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of a cashless future, the evol...

Aug 29, 202447 minEp. 133

Stephanie Goodman on Problem Gambling

In this episode of "On The Corner of Main Street," Jonathan Jossel begins with a conversation with McKenna Ross from the Review-Journal, reflecting on the podcast’s journey and what makes it a unique voice in the Vegas landscape. Afterward, Jonathan and Gary Vickery dive into a compelling discussion with Stephanie Goodman, Executive Director of the Dr. Robert Hunter International Problem Gambling Center. Stephanie opens up about the critical work being done at the PGC, offering insights into the...

Aug 15, 202450 minEp. 132

The Mafia, Tommy LaSorda and The MLB

In this episode of the Oscar Dinner Series , Oscar Goodman delves into a particularly vivid and quirky tale from his legal career. Goodman recounts a memorable client—a spirited little person with an exceptional taste for fine spirits. With a blend of humor and nostalgia, Goodman describes the client’s unique drinking ritual, where a seemingly mellow start transitions into a fiery, botanical experience. This engaging story not only offers a glimpse into Goodman’s colorful world but also evokes t...

Aug 01, 20241 hr 6 minEp. 131

Q&A: Inside Scoop with Jonathan and Gary, plus the return of Vital Vegas!

Welcome to Episode #130 of "On the Corner of Main Street"! Join Plaza CEO Jonathan Jossel and Gary Vickery as they sit down with Scott Roeben, also known as Vital Vegas, for his fourth appearance on the show. Get ready for an insider's look at everything from the latest in gaming, dining, and entertainment to fascinating stories about Vegas history and current events. Highlights include the improved safety and security measures on Fremont Street, insightful debates on the impact of downtown's fi...

Jul 18, 20241 hr 11 min

Vegas Matt: Youtube Sensation

Deep Dive into the World of Social Media Gambling: An Interview with Vegas Matt & Team Join us for a captivating conversation with Vegas Matt and his team, EJ and WBG, as they share their journey into the world of social media gambling. From viral YouTube videos to massive wins and losses, discover how they turned their passion for gambling into a thriving online presence. Learn about their strategies, collaborations, and the authenticity that drives their success. Hear insights on the power...

Jun 21, 202453 minEp. 129

Live on Main Street: Plaza Reimagined Anniversary

Explosive Gossip, Festivals, and Celebrations at Plaza Hotel Join Gary Vickery and Plaza Hotel CEO Jonathan Jossel in a lively discussion with special guests Scott Robin of Vital Vegas and Michael Crandall of PinkBox Donuts. This episode celebrates the first anniversary of the Carousel Bar and the success of the smoke-free slot area at the Plaza Hotel. Discover the story behind PinkBox Donuts' success, hear the latest industry gossip from Scott Robin, and explore the evolving attractions of Main...

Jun 13, 20241 hr 19 minEp. 128
Hosted on Libsyn
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android