Author: Cristian Rodriguez

Return to Main Street: Jonathan and Gary’s Summer Recap

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Jonathan and Gary return after a three-month summer break with a twist. They recap Jonathan’s summer travels and discuss competition from regional casinos, including the Wynn in Boston, plus whether “Vegas is dead,” noting slower summer demand, higher gas prices, and concerns about gambling tax rules affecting sports bettors. They cover Las Vegas developments like the Hard Rock guitar build and the A’s stadium construction, and emphasize the need to keep Vegas a fun, value-driven destination beyond big events. At the Plaza, they highlight Friday “Welcome to the Weekend” fireworks, the new high-limit room with 53 new slot games, Five Guys progress, a new wedding chapel, and a Carousel Bar wedding package that’s selling strongly.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Chad Jahn: Crafting Unforgettable Experiences at Oscar’s

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

In this episode of On the Corner of Main Street, Jonathan and Gary share property updates, including passing 500,000 podcast downloads, EDC expanding to two weekends, the return of Friday-night summer fireworks, and plans for a new high-limit slots area, before spotlighting Oscar’s Steakhouse general manager Chad Jahn (“Big Bad Chad”). Chad talks about moving to Las Vegas as a child. starting in restaurants young, graduating from UNLV, and building his hospitality career through Steve Wynn-era properties (Golden Nugget, Mirage, Bellagio), including celebrity-service stories, before spending 11 years at Ferraro’s and a stint at Emmitt’s. He explains his approach to leading a veteran team, the guest journey standards he enforces, and what makes Oscar’s stand out-its history, service, value, and signature dishes-plus a brief call-in from Oscar Goodman.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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The Evolution of Vegas Nightlife: Insights from Jason Strauss

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Jonathan and Gary welcome back Tao Group co-CEO Jason Strauss. Strauss looks back on his 2021 predictions—from the Sphere to the Arts District—while breaking down why Vegas is still growing despite the noise online. He also teases what’s next, including a new Omnia Dayclub opening during EDC weekend, and shares a simple rule: know every role before you lead.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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From Entry-Level to Executive: Ronn Nicoli’s Vegas Journey

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Jonathan and Gary interview nightlife and marketing executive Ronn Nicolli, now leading marketing and guest experience for the Meruleo Group at Sahara. Ronn discusses his new role and efforts to add cultural relevance while leaning into Sahara’s 75-year history, including work with Las Vegas archives, hosting Sammy Dais Jr.’s family, and gifting Mike Tyson a framed historic Sahara bowling photo. He reflects on NorthStrip dynamics and why nearby resorts’ success matters for foot traffic, then traces his path from Ohio to Vegas, early jobs, and rise from street promoter at Wynn to major nightlife projects like Tryst and XS, sharing lessons about brand identity, detail, and wow factor from Steve Wynn. He closes with advice on taking risks, hard work, and mentoring the next generation in hospitality

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Bonus Episode: Jonathan’s Hey BigHead Show Interview

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Jonathan joins Andrew on the HeyBigHead Show as a special guest, sharing his journey to Las Vegas, insights into running a casino, perspectives on leadership, and his vision for the future of the Plaza Hotel & Casino. Tune in for an inside look at the industry-and don’t forget to check out the HeyBigHead Show on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube!

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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The Next Big Thing in Vegas: Inside the Vegas Live Casino Network

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Jonathan and Gary introduce the newly launched Vegas Live Casino Network with partner Stephan Shelanski, a TV and sports-betting media veteran who helped build VSiN. They explain the concept: a smoke-free, streamer-friendly casino area with blackjack, single-zero roulette, baccarat, and about 45 slots, broadcasting six hours of live action daily on YouTube plus a 30-45 minute highlight recap, letting guests share a QR code so friends can watch them play. Vegas Pauly C joins to discuss bringing players, his experience streaming at Venetian, why audiences watch live gambling, and the importance of engaging dealers and big swings. They also touch on Vegas economics, casino pricing, and operator-driven guest experience.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Burgers and Business: Five Guys Sets Up at The Plaza

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Jonathan and Gary sit down with Ed Pizzarello to announce that Five Guys is officially coming to the Plaza Hotel & Casino, bringing the first downtown location of the brand to the property. Ed shares the story behind Five Guys, which started as a family-run burger shop in 1986 in Arlington, built on simple principles like fresh ingredients, no freezers, unlimited toppings, and those famous peanuts and extra fries. The conversation dives into the two-year process to bring the concept downtown, plans for the Plaza location near the South Tower with a patio, and even a future hot dog cart near the Carousel Bar. They also touch on new menu tests like boozy milkshakes and breakfast before wrapping up the episode with a giveaway of 10 “eat free for a year” prize.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Gambling’s Most Exclusive List: Secrets of the Black Book

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Join us for a deep dive into the history and significance of the Black Book, as Jonathan and Gary host James Taylor, former Chief of Enforcement at the Nevada Gaming Control Board. They explore Taylor’s 28 years of gaming enforcement, including detailed stories of organized crime, casino cheats, and notorious cases. Special guest feature by former Mayor Oscar Goodman brings a unique perspective on the legal battles surrounding the Black Book. Learn how this tool has evolved and its current role in safeguarding the integrity of Las Vegas casinos. Discover the fascinating insights and experiences from those who have dedicated their careers to maintaining order in the world of gaming.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Rob Goldstein: Inside the Operator Playbook of Iconic Resorts

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

In this podcast, Jonathan and Gary sit down with Rob Goldstein, a legend in the gaming industry. Goldstein shares his remarkable journey of over 30 years, primarily with the Sands Group, starting from an unexpected childhood experience that led him to a career in gaming and hospitality. He discusses his East Coast beginnings, his father’s gambling habits, and his transition from law school to the forefront of the gaming industry. The conversation highlights Goldstein’s instrumental role in the development of Las Vegas, including significant milestones like collaborating with Sheldon Adelson on the creation of the Venetian and Palazzo, the value of themes in hotels, outsourcing food and beverage operations, and non-gaming revenue. Goldstein also speaks about his future plans as he looks forward to new ventures after announcing his departure from Sands.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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Hogs and Heifers: New Beginnings at the Plaza

Posted on | by Cristian Rodriguez

Join Jonathan and Gary in this exciting episode as they welcome the ladies behind the iconic Hogs and Heifers – Michelle Sandler and Michelle Dell. Discover the rich history of this famous biker bar from its origins in New York’s meatpackings distirct to its thriving days on Downtown Las Vegas’ Third Street. Despite challenges and a recent closure, Hogs and Heifers is making a spirited comeback with a pop-up bar at the Plaza. Learn about their unique hiring process, upcoming events like the St. Patty’s Day firefighter fun games, and their passion-driven journey. Don’t miss their dynamic energy and plans for this thrilling Las Vegas venture!

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery

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