Bar Banter & Life Lessons with Sean Michaels on Common Cents The Podcast

In this captivating episode of Common Cents The Podcast, Garrett Reed sits down with the dynamic Sean Michaels, Owner Operator of Back Nine & KIPS Kitchen, and a renowned DJ, to delve into the intriguing world of the bar industry, personal growth, and unforgettable life experiences. Sean shares his unique journey from building popular nightlife spots to his thoughts on smoking regulations and the secrets behind running a successful bar. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with industry insights, personal reflections, and a few entertaining stories that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Timestamped Summary:

• 00:00 - Sean Michaels discusses his background, pregame routine, and the smoking laws in Addison, Texas.
• 09:51 - Challenges of owning a bar, including marketing a big boy statue and staying relevant, along with the story of a stolen monster truck.
• 24:48 - The evolution of nightclubs and the success of Back Nine, highlighting the importance of good staff, quality food, and unique events.
• 38:00 - Fun times lip-syncing Prince songs at karaoke, the importance of bar owner camaraderie, and building industry relationships.
• 50:21 - Handling difficult customers, advocating for no-phone policies in bars, and the younger generation's communication struggles.
• 01:03:47 - Changes in parenting, sports bars losing money due to NFL packages, and a story about spanking and respect.
• 01:14:36 - The importance of experienced bartenders and personal relationships in the bar business, with Sean sharing his personal struggles and the need for support.
• 01:31:47 - Lessons from Sean’s grandfather, challenges of bar ownership, implications of THC/CBD drinks, and the importance of work-life balance and mentorship in the DJ world.

Highlights:

1. Bar Industry Insights and Strategies:

   • Sean discusses the double standard of smoking regulations inside bars, sparking an engaging conversation about smoking laws.
   • Insights into building and opening popular nightlife spots like Martini Park, now Sambuka 360, and other challenging concepts like Brixton and Vinyl Nightclub.
   • Emphasizing the key to success for Back Nine: having the right people behind the bar who can be friendly, make desired drinks, and anticipate customer needs.
   • The concept of hiring based on personality and fit, creating a strong family-like team dynamic in the bar business.
   • Sean’s idea of implementing a no-phone policy in bars to encourage face-to-face conversations.
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2. Personal Life Lessons and Reflections:

   • The importance of taking control of your life, making tough decisions, and improving your situation even in adversity.
   • Living life to the fullest every moment because the future is unpredictable.
   • Building trusting relationships in sales, highlighting the importance of knowing what you stand for.
   • Sean’s story of facing felony charges for assault on an officer, emphasizing the need for TABC agents to announce themselves for safety.
   • The significant impact of mentorship and guidance in both personal and professional life.