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If you grew up in Las Vegas (or even visited a few times), chances are you have a memory tied to the Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas. Whether it was a night at VooDoo Lounge, a buffet that felt like it went on forever, or just the energy of something different off the Strip, the Rio was an iconic piece of Vegas history. Now, Patrick Miller is on a mission to bring it back.
On a recent episode of the Betting On Success Podcast, the Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas President & CEO sat down with host Mark Morton aka "Morty" for a chat that was part career story, part Vegas history, and all heart. You can watch it on PodBean, Apple Podcast, Spotify, or YouTube.
From Family Roots to Casino Floors
Patrick doesn’t lead with his resume. He leads with family. “I come from a family of seven. My brothers and sisters were my best friends growing up,” he shared. “Faith and how we treated each other were everything.”
That grounding has carried through his personal life and career. Married to his wife Jen for over 26 years, he credits her as a huge reason for his success.“In this business, especially casinos, you're always on. You need a partner who understands that. Jen’s been my rock.”
Giving Back? Non-Negotiable.
While many gaming executives focus solely on operations, Patrick’s just as focused on giving back. He serves on multiple boards, from Cristo Rey High School to Catholic Charities to Mountain View Hospital.
“Vegas is more than the Strip,” he said. “The lights are great, but the real heart of this city is its people.” Despite graduating from the University of Notre Dame, Patrick’s first job was as a pit clerk at the Mirage Hotel & Casino Las Vegas. No corner office. No fast track. “My dad told me, ‘Just start somewhere.’ And I did. I’m so glad I did.” That hands-on experience helped him build a deep understanding of the business — and a deep respect for the people who make it work every day.
A Slot Team Like No Other
In the early 2000s, Patrick was part of a now-legendary group at MGM Resorts International with names like Steve Zanella, Justin Beltram, Mike Vulkar, and others who’ve gone on to lead across the industry.
What made that team special? “It was an incubator. We were data-driven, hungry, and constantly learning,” Patrick recalled. “And we were surrounded by leaders who saw our potential and pushed us to grow.” That brings us to today. The Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas has seen better days, and Patrick knows that. But he also sees the potential — and he’s already making big moves. “This place is 90 acres. That’s enormous,” he said. “There’s so much we can do. New restaurants, updated rooms, better guest experiences. But we also want to keep what made the Rio special in the first place.”
Don’t expect a return of the exact same buffet or the show in the sky, but DO expect an experience that’s approachable, fun, and full of energy. Free parking? Still there. Friendly tables? Definitely. The Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas is meant to feel like Vegas should feel.
What Makes a Great Leader?
When we asked Patrick what he thinks defines great leadership, his answer was refreshingly simple:
He also adds one more thing: humility. “You’re probably not the smartest person in the room… and that’s a good thing. Surround yourself with great people and trust them.”
His Legacy? It's About People
At the end of the conversation, we asked what Patrick hopes people say about him when it’s all said and done. “I just hope they say they’re better for having worked with me,” he said. “If I’ve helped people grow, professionally or personally, that’s the biggest win.”
The Betting On Success Podcast, sponsored by Las Vegas-based companies Marker Trax and Koin Payments, features conversations with gaming industry leaders while exploring the future of cashless gaming technology.
View the complete podcast on PodBean, Apple Podcast, Spotify, or YouTube.
