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 conversation about the soul of Vegas, its future, and some behind-the-scenes stories from the influencer life.

This episode will give you an inside look at the business of Las Vegas through the eyes of someone deeply embedded in its culture and history, offering practical tips for visitors and new perspectives for locals alike.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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Bonus Episode: Nevada Preservation and Fireworks!

In this podcast episode, the Jonathan and Gary discuss the introduction of weekly fireworks shows every Friday night in downtown Las Vegas, starting from May 24th. The idea, initially sparked in 2016 to bring attention to the plaza that was perceived as losing relevance, quickly gained community support. The narrative explores the origins, the decision-making process behind making it a regular event, and the involvement of downtown businesses and the city in amplifying the spectacle.

Highlighting the shift from historical to contemporary attractions, the discussion also covers ancillary topics like the evolution of the plaza’s fireworks shows, an all-inclusive hotel package, and a segue into the Nevada Preservation Foundation’s Home and History event, emphasizing Las Vegas’ rich history and ongoing efforts for community engagement and revitalization.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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The Plaza’s Greatest Hits, Part Three

In this special ‘Best Of’ episode, Jonathan and Gary take a stroll down memory lane, showcasing some of the most unforgettable moments from the heart of Las Vegas entertainment. From the uproarious to the unbelievable, they’ve handpicked clips that capture the spirit and sparkle of Sin City. Revel in tales from nightlife transformers, iconic show creators, and unexpected guests who’ve each left their indelible mark on the city.

Whether it’s discussing the revolution of the Vegas variety show scene with Absinthe’s Ross Mollison or reliving the riotous encounters at Piero’s with Freddie Glossman, each story brings the vibrant energy of Vegas to life. Tune in for a rollercoaster ride through the luminous nights and charismatic characters that define Vegas. Remember, what happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas—sometimes it makes for great podcast material.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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Vegas Pauly C

Pauly C is Paul Contino, a former telcom executive who also calls himself a degenerate gambler. He’s also the inventor of Casino Comp Wallet, an app that aggregates and curates various loyalty programs and comps you’ve earned.
 
Pauly C is also an Internet star, posting short Vegas-centric videos under the name “Vegas Pauly C.” His dozens of posts have accumulated more than a million views. Pauly C shares the ups and downs of his Vegas journey, and offers some tips on maximizing your comps. 

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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The Downtown Grand’s Andrew Economon

Downtown Grand GM Andrew Economon has, in his words, worked “both sides of the street” in Las Vegas – for Caesars and for MGM. He’s made other stops along The Strip and off The Strip, He now runs the hotel that used to be “Lady Luck.”
 
After a long closure, it came back ten years ago as The Downtown Grand. Andrew and Jonathan discuss the challenges and rewards of operating downtown, and the latest efforts to, in Andrew’s words, “Make Downtown Great Again.” He even has hats with that motto!

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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Christiaan Van Buuren, Plaza Table Games Director

Jonathan and Gary continue the “tradition” of welcoming new manager by putting them on the podcast. Christiaan Van Buuren is the new Director of Table Games, and a South African like Jonathan.
 
Christiaan shares his journey from the casino world of South Africa to Las Vegas, a detour to South Korea, then back to Vegas. Also in this episode: Jonathan and Gary review the big events of 2023 at the Plaza, and preview/hint at new things to come. 

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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Former Las Vegas Mayor Jan Jones Blackhurst

Las Vegas’ first female mayor, Jan Jones Blackhurst, served from 1994 to 1999 – immediately preceding Oscar Goodman. Jones Blackhurst had already made a name for herself as a TV spokeswoman for her family’s grocery store chain, Thrifimart, and her former husband’s car dealership.
 
She tells how she ran for mayor on a bet, which she obviously won. The city mushroomed in size during her terms, and she’s credited with making the city more livable. She shares stories about establishing the Fremont Street Experience, running for governor and her career with Caesars since leaving office. 

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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Welcome Fontainebleau Las Vegas!

It’s finally here. Fontainebleau Las Vegas is opening its doors. Jonathan and Gary got a sneak peek from the woman at the top, COO Colleen Birch. Recorded inside the resort’s top steakhouse, Colleen recounts her Vegas history and how she joined Fontainebleau nearly a year ago. 

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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Jeremy Aguero, Las Vegas’ Analyst

When Vegas wants to do something big, like hosting the Super Bowl or F1, or helping the A’s move to town, somebody has to crunch the numbers. And often, that somebody Jeremy Aguero, head of Applied Analysis. He’s the valley’s leading expert on economic, fiscal and policy issues, and has undertaken projects of local, regional and national significance. Jeremy and Jonathan discuss some of those projects, and agree to disagree on the benefits of F1. 

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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Formula One: A Quick Reality Check

This is a short bonus preview for a full episode that will come out at the end of November. With Formula One weekend happening in Las Vegas, Jonathan wants to share some thoughts about how it’s going for the Plaza and other downtown properties. Here’s Jonathan with Jeremy Aguero, founder of Applied Analysis, which played a big part in helping Formula One and the LVCVA make the race happen.

Hosts: Jonathan Jossel, Gary Vickery


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