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 Bowl events, and ongoing downtown developments like the proposed bridge at Symphony Park and new cultural initiatives. Issues of transparency in social media and the challenges of maintaining long-term interest in Vegas as a tourist destination are also explored. 

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 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

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 tales of old-school operators to insights on what makes Vegas such a special destination, this is an unmissable peek behind the neon curtain of Downtown 

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 how tech is reshaping gambling—or just love behind-the-scenes casino chatter—this one’s a can’t-miss.

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 a teenager in the ‘60s, witnessing the heyday of the Sands and the Rat Pack through her father’s job as a maître d’, serving seven terms in Congress, and now stepping into one of the city’s top leadership roles.

In this candid conversation, Mayor Berkley offers a glimpse of her vision for Las Vegas: improving economic growth, expanding affordable housing, and tackling homelessness with fresh, community-minded approaches. You’ll hear her reflect on the legacy of the Goodman family, the pioneering role of women in city leadership, and the city’s ever-evolving culture—from the days of dress codes and dinner jackets to the modern pulse of the Arts District and flourishing tech scene. Whether you’re a Vegas local or just love the lure of the city’s neon lights, this episode gives you an inside look at where Las Vegas stands today and where it’s headed tomorrow under Mayor Shelley Berkley’s steady, experienced hand.

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 moments in the city’s history. Join us for laughs, nostalgia, and wisdom in this unforgettable look at what makes Las Vegas truly unique. Don’t miss out on exclusive stories and a glimpse into the heart of downtown’s most vibrant dinner series! 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 01:18 Dinner Series Format and Rules 02:04 Special Toast to the Mayors 03:35 Oscar Takes the Stage 09:12 Representing the 'Bad Guys' 11:33 The Story of Peanut the Squirrel 12:49 Billy Walters and the FBI 21:37 The Old Days vs. The New Days 25:44 Taking the Fifth: A Legal Strategy 26:20 The Changing Face of Las Vegas 28:17 A New Career Path: Running for Mayor 29:31 The Odds Were Against Me 30:07 Reflecting on Old Vegas 33:16 The Modern Skim: Corporate Greed 34:57 Opening Up for Questions 36:54 Anecdotes and Humor 44:20 The Secret to a Happy Marriage 48:33 Proudest Accomplishments as Mayor 52:18 Vision for Las Vegas' Future 53:46 Closing Remarks and Thanks

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 live as a local in the entertainment capital of the world. Don't miss this engaging conversation recorded in the luxurious Derby Suite!

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 Steve Wynn and Sheldon Adelson to the boom in themed mega-resorts like MGM Grand and New York-New York. He shares insights into his role in building MGM’s legacy, including orchestrating high-stakes events like Mike Tyson’s fights, the art of creating Vegas resorts with a "wow" factor, and his strategic acquisition of the Mirage. Later in the episode, Alex reflects on his time revitalizing the Tropicana and how he foresees the future of Las Vegas development. Tune in to hear stories about power moves, Vegas transformations, and invaluable life lessons from one of the most respected minds in gaming.

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 Jonathan Jossel and Gary Vickery, this episode provides a deep dive into the sport’s rise, its viral nature, and how Vernon is carving his own path in this unique combat world.

Join us as we explore the wild world of Power Slap, the discipline it requires, and what it takes to succeed in one of the fastest-growing sports today!

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. 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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