The Next Level Blog

In the bustling realm of casino management, Kari Stout-Smith shines as a guiding light. As the General Manager at Cache Creek Casino Resort, she has amassed over two decades of expertise, from her starting position as a promotions hostess to her present role. Stout-Smith’s journey exemplifies the importance of resilience, adaptability, and garnering a deep understanding of what creates a standout casino experience. With her extensive background, Kari Stout-Smith stands as a valuable mentor, offering seasoned advice to those aspiring to make their mark in the vibrant casino industry.

In the world of sports photography, few names are as renowned as Andy Bernstein. With a career spanning over four decades, Bernstein has not only witnessed but also artistically captured some of the most iconic moments in sports history. His journey, marked by passion, dedication and an unyielding pursuit of excellence, offers invaluable lessons for anyone aspiring to elevate their career to the next level. As the host of the “Legends of Sport” podcast, Bernstein's insights extend beyond photography, delving into the mindset of high achievers and the essence of success.

In the ever-evolving gaming world, understanding the global landscape is crucial for anyone involved in this dynamic industry. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Ari Mizrachi, Senior Vice President and Head of North America Business at Tangam Systems, to delve into the intricacies and future of global gaming. With more than  15 years of experience, ranging from front-line roles to executive positions, Mizrachi offers invaluable insights into this vibrant sector.

Embrace the challenge and reap the rewards: mastering the art of multicultural team leadership is a journey worth embarking on. Wanor França, the Chief Revenue Officer of Casino Cash Trac, brings a unique perspective to this challenge, particularly in recruiting and training tri-lingual resources. Drawing directly from França's insights, we’ve drilled down five key tips for managing such teams, focusing on cultural sensitivity, effective communication, and fostering inclusivity.

In the dynamic realm of casinos and hospitality, sustainable utility management is a cornerstone that ensures both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. We had the privilege of speaking with Kate Ellis, the General Manager of San Manuel Utility Authority at Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, to gain insights into this crucial aspect.

In today's fast-paced business environment, change is inevitable. Marcus Diaz, the Director of Organizational Development at Casino Del Sol Resort, emphasizes, "Change is always going to happen. In order to change and change successfully, we need to be resilient." This sentiment is echoed by many industry experts who believe that resilience is the cornerstone of successful organizational development.

In the dynamic world of communications, understanding the intricacies of crafting impactful messages is a skill honed over time. Kelley Tucky, the Vice President of Strategic Communications at Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, has navigated various facets of the industry, garnering a wealth of experience. Her journey has equipped her with a unique perspective on the art and science of effective communication.

Human Resources (HR) is often misunderstood, but Heather Jimenez, Manager of Professional Development and Internships at Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, wants to set the record straight. "There's a lot of times people forget that we are human resources. We are a resource to our team members and to leaders," she says. HR is far more than an administrative function; it's a strategic partner in an organization's growth.

With its vast opportunities and dynamic nature, the hospitality industry offers a rewarding career path for many. As Margie Ferree Jones, the dean of the Collins College of Hospitality Management at Cal Poly Pomona, aptly puts it, "The hospitality industry is not just about serving; it's about understanding the nuances of human interactions and creating memorable experiences."