982: Mickey Bakst Co-Founder of Ben's Friends

Mickey Bakst is the Co-Founder of Ben's Friends. Ben's Friends is a community of chefs, bartenders, line cooks, servers, sommeliers, host and hostesses, GMs and owners who have found or are seeking sobriety. Their mission: "to offer community, hope and a path forward for those struggling with substance abuse and addiction." Mickey Bakst has been sober since 1982. He began his restaurant career in the early 70's at a restaurant in Newport Beach, CA. In 1974 he bought into the restaurant and was a co-owner from 1974 until his exit in 1982 when he also go sober. After successfully navigating AA and attaining his sobriety, he rejoined the restaurant industry in the fine dining realm. He is "officially" retired now, after serving as the GM at Charleston Grill. He is known as the "unofficial mayor of Charleston" today.

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Favorite success quote/mantra:

• "Sobriety is my super power."

In this episode with Mickey Bakst we will discuss:

• Sobriety
• Substance abuse in the industry
• The industry in the 70s and 80s
• Fine dining
• Taking care of your people and your guests at an equal measure
• The future of the industry

Today's sponsor:

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Key clients include Loews Hotels, Novartis, Madison Square Garden, Yum, FB Society, Hakkasan, TAO Group, and the Dog Haus.

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Contact:

Website: https://www.bensfriendshope.com

Thanks for listening!

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Huge thanks to Mickey Bakst for joining me for another awesome episode. Until next time!

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