Editor’s Note: TravelZork welcomes the newest member of our team, THE INVETERATE GAMBLER. This will be the first of numerous articles that include narratives about Atlantic City casual and fine dining as well as popular gambling topics such as blackjack. So much has been happening lately in the Vegas podcast scene, that we wanted to add a bit of additional editorial insight prior to the article. Please be sure to check out two of the newest Vegas podcasts: Vegas Confessions Podcast and Vegas Bun Boy Show. In addition, one of the favorite podcasts of baccarat_guy (and our favorite person to follow on twitter @VitalVegas ) Vital Vegas Podcast, which can be found on iTunes. Scott always puts a smile on my face, really good stuff. So, without further delay….
Top 10 Gambling and Las Vegas Podcasts 2017
I listen to a lot of podcasts. I was delighted to recently to learn that, Michael Trager (aka baccarat_guy) of TravelZork has begun his own podcast. Each episode is around 9 minutes and the topics are related to travel, casinos and maximizing the recreational gambling and travel experience.
The TravelZork podcast led me to think about how much the genre has grown. The once niche casino topic now seems to be growing all the time. In my experience some of the podcasts, which are available on the various podcast platforms, are excellent some are dreadful.
Below is my, admittedly subjective, TOP TEN list of the best casino related podcasts. I hope this helps you find one that is appealing to you.
#1 YOU CAN BET ON THAT
Hosts Mark DeVol and Dr. Mike have acquired a growing and very loyal following. This is a true gambling podcast, The hosts are two real recreational gamblers, that relate stories of their frequent casino visits.
The show leans somewhat towards the game of craps (Which is great!) However, each episode includes a segment on a specific aspect of gambling.
One episode it may be a certain game, another comps or sports betting, they have even discussed problem gambling
Also featuring listener calls with reports from casinos around the country providing insight into the good and the bad from different properties.
Anyone that is interested in recreational gambling in any form would find this podcast interesting.
#2 GAMBLING WITH AN EDGE
Hosted by professional video poker player Bob Dancer and noted card counter Richard Munchkin. Each week the duo hosts a gambling related figure. One week it may be a pseudo-named advantage players revealing some of his secrets the next week it may be a well known gambling celebrity.
Gambling attorney Bob Nersesian is a frequent visitor as is the publisher of The Las Vegas Advisor Anthony Curtis.
Episodes featuring only Bob and Richard answering listener questions are interesting as well as informative.
#3 FIVE HUNDY BY MIDNIGHT
Broadcasting since 2005, this is the granddaddy of the genre. Hosts Tim and Michelle Dressen, frequent Las Vegas visitors, discuss all aspects Las Vegas including, hotel experiences, restaurants, entertainment and general Las Vegas news. The discussions can spiral off on tangents including rants about a new trend that is annoying Tim.
Voice messages left by listeners are a great part of the show. This podcast has a very active Facebook page where members share experiences and answer queries from people planning visits to Vegas.
The hosts are the featured attraction at an annual October meeting of listeners, currently known as The Summit.
Just in case, you were not aware of the “Five Hundy by Midnight” reference.
#4 FACES AND ACES LAS VEGAS
Did you ever wonder what it’s like to be a part of the industry that is Las Vegas. This podcast is a look behind the curtain to peer into the life of the people and the places that make a casino town different than any other.
Chris, the host, of the podcast works hard to find the people that support his favorite city.
His interview style is laidback but still comprehensive.
His show include interviews of poker players, strippers, tattoo artists, dealers, magicians, card counters, gambling authors, chefs etc.
Chris also includes trip reports including visits to local establishments that he takes with friends and his wife Jenny.
#5 COUSIN VITO’S CASINO PODCAST
Host Cousin Vito discusses casino gambling with a New York City, “Forget about it” style, even though he’s in Connecticut, Go figure.
Anyhow, Cousin Vito has attracted some great guests to his show and his interviewing skills have really hit their stride.
His genuine enthusiasm for casinos is apparent in each episode.
He recently added a co-host, Cousin Mikey, his real cousin.
Cousin Vito will be the emcee of the highly anticipated ZorkFest in Atlantic City on Saturday December 2, 2017.
#6 VICE LOUNGE ONLINE
Hosted by Tony Snyder and Jason Gillikin. This is more of a lifestyle podcast that just casino related but I feel that it still fits well into this list. Each episode features a segment on fine spirits, cigars and casino gambling
The hosts have encyclopedic knowledge of the topics and provide incredible detail.
This is a great resource for researching a fine spirit or cigar prior to making a purchase.
The casino segment addresses myriad subjects including how to play various casino games, comps and related topics.
#7 TIPPING THE ODDS LAS VEGAS
The name of this podcast may be deceiving because on most episodes the Las Vegas related discussion seems like an afterthought, however, they eventually get to it.
The hosts Mitch and Dr. Kev, tackle a variety of topics, including politics and even microbiology, in what seems like an off the cuff discussion between two longtime friends.
In newer episodes, they seem to be trying to break the mold of so many other podcast that just discuss Las Vegas, as they now comment of casino related experiences throughout the USA.
Dr. Kev often is the straight man to the comedy, much of it self-deprecating, of his partner Mitch.
The hosts have authored the book “Casino Blackjack for the Recreational Player.”
#8 DUE FOR A WIN
A unique entry in the podcast field as it concentrates on the Atlantic City visitor experience. Whether you are a frequent visitor to the city or a prospective visitor wondering about A.C. you will find this podcast informative and entertaining.
It is hosted by Craig Stone and Kyle Askin, two Atlantic City fans and casino enthusiasts. The show focuses on the casinos as well as local bars and restaurants.
The hosts also discuss the broader business of the casino industry.
Occasionally there will be a guest interview, noted casino comp master Eric Rosenthal has appeared on two episodes. (Note: Eric Rosenthal will be a speaker at ZorkFest in Atlantic City on Saturday December 2, 2017.)
#9 360 VEGAS
This podcast has the best opening of any podcast, with a montage of lines from Las Vegas related movies.
Mark Wojtowicz is joined by his current cohost, Keren along with Tony Snyder.
The podcast features news and in-depth commentary about wide-ranging Las Vegas related topics.
The banter is punctuated with profanity and bouts of laughter, so if that distracts you may want to skip this one. The hosts are also is not shy about their political leanings.
360 Vegas Vacation listener meetups in Vegas are very popular.
#10 VEGAS BRIGHT Podcast
This podcast accompanies the informative, Vegas Bright website.
The podcast recently began it’s new “reimagined” format.
Host Michael Movestro provides a rapid fire rundown of Las Vegas related news headlines and a look at upcoming events. He also includes selections from his DJ Vestro, mixes.
