Join us for an inspiring episode of Travel Talk as we sit down with Allie Evangelista, President of Hard Rock Casino Bristol, to explore her remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Brazil to leading one of Virginia’s most exciting hospitality and entertainment destinations.

In this interview, Allie shares how her passion for hospitality began with a life-changing internship at Walt Disney World and evolved into a thriving career that took her across seven states and into the world of gaming. Her story highlights the power of perseverance, learning, and embracing every opportunity — no matter where you start.

We also dive into the rapid growth of Hard Rock Casino Bristol, including:
🎸 The property's first year successes and major milestones
🏨 What makes Hard Rock Bristol’s hotel, entertainment venue, and gaming floor a must-visit
🎰 How the team built a brand-new gaming market in Virginia
🎤 Expanding national entertainment acts and plans for the year ahead
🌍 Allie’s favorite travel destinations and her upcoming bucket-list trips

Whether you're passionate about hospitality, travel, leadership, or simply love the Hard Rock brand, this episode delivers valuable insights and inspiration.

• How a Disney internship launched a global hospitality career

• The challenges & triumphs of opening a new casino in a new gaming market

• Why Bristol, VA is becoming a rising travel destination

• The importance of team culture, learning, and professional growth

• Allie’s travel philosophy: “I work to travel.”

Offering 303 hotel rooms, nationally recognized entertainment acts, 24-hour dining, gaming, spa, indoor/outdoor pools, and year-round experiences, Hard Rock Casino Bristol is redefining hospitality in the region. Follow them on social media for upcoming shows, giveaways, and events.

👉 Hard Rock Casino Bristol – Facebook & Instagram
👉 The Hotel Guide – thehotelguide.com
👉 Subscribe for more Travel Talk episodes!

If you enjoy stories of leadership, travel, and hospitality excellence, make sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode.

🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🌟 About Hard Rock Casino Bristol📲 Connect & Follow

Get ready for a high-energy conversation with Tim Morrow, the forward-thinking CEO of the San Antonio Zoo—one of the fastest-growing and most innovative zoological destinations in the United States. In this episode of Travel Talk with Edward Leos, we explore how the Zoo is redefining wildlife conservation, elevating family travel experiences, and creating unforgettable eco-tourism adventures in the heart of Texas.

Tim shares insider stories, bold ideas, and the Zoo’s mission to protect species, inspire visitors, and transform the way people connect with wildlife. Whether you're planning a trip to San Antonio, passionate about conservation, or love powerful leadership stories, this episode is full of high-value insights and must-know travel tips.

• How the San Antonio Zoo became a national leader in conservation and guest experience

• Innovative wildlife and habitat projects shaping the future of zoological parks

• The Zoo’s approach to animal care, education, and environmental stewardship

• New attractions and immersive experiences for families, travelers, and nature lovers

• Tim Morrow’s leadership philosophy and vision for sustainable tourism

• Wildlife conservation & endangered species

• San Antonio travel guides and Texas attractions

• Family-friendly destinations & zoo adventures

• Eco-tourism and sustainable travel

• Leadership, innovation, and organizational transformation

Discover how one of America’s most historic zoos is creating a dynamic, modern, conservation-focused experience that inspires millions.
WATCH THE FULL EPISODE → Your next adventure starts here.

🔥 What You’ll Discover in This Episode:🐾 Perfect for Viewers Interested In:🎧 Tune In Now

In this episode, host Edward Leos sits down with Laura Penney, CEO of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation about leadership, culture, community, and the remarkable evolution of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most unique destinations.

Laura shares:
✨ The story of opening the resort’s doors in 1993
✨ How tribal values & heritage shape every aspect of the property
✨ What makes the Coeur d’Alene experience truly unforgettable
✨ The power of people-first leadership in hospitality
✨ Her journey as a CEO in the gaming & resort industry

If you’re passionate about travel, hospitality, business leadership, or culturally driven destinations, this episode delivers insight and heart at every turn.

📌 Subscribe to Travel Talk for more interviews with leaders, creators, and innovators shaping the world of travel.
🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts & Amazon Music.

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