If you've ever wanted to know more about the story behind Micky Finn's and the man that founded it, the recent  interview with Rick Havekost, owner and founder of Micky Finn's, by Ken Ard of the No Stop Lights podcast is one you don't want to miss. 

While many in Florence know Micky Finn's as a staple in the area, many will also remember how the company completely revolutionized the liquor, beer, and wine industry in the Pee Dee when it opened its doors in the late 90's, something it continues to do today. During the course of the interview, Rick Havekost tells the story of how he found himself in the alcohol industry and how he "redefined the liquor business" by turning Micky Finn's into a Florence area institution. 

Havekost tells his own story as well, speaking to Ard about his personal history, his Nebraska roots, how he and his family came to live in South Carolina, his connections to the University of South Carolina, as well as his career as a collegiate athlete and experience in the restaurant industry. 

In addition, Havekost finally puts an end to the mystery behind the name "Micky Finn's," a question regularly asked by customers since the day the business first opened. 

Havekost also discusses how he became involved in the politics of the liquor industry in South Carolina, his part in changing the alcohol laws in the state and the City of Florence, and what it was like working with Hugh Leatherman during that process. 

During the course of the interview, Ard and Havekost  have a frank conversation about the future of Sunday alcohol sales in Florence County and the state. For anyone interested in the topic of alcohol laws in South Carolina, this discussion is a "must listen." 

Lastly, Havekost expresses his views on competition, what it's like to open a new and expanded business, and how he built Micky Finn's into the largest liquor wholesaler in the state. He also discusses Micky Finn's charitable ventures and his work in giving back to the community. 

This interview is truly fascinating as Ard and Havekost weave through the personal, political, and professional worlds to tell a story that is well worth the listen to say the least. 

You can watch the video here: 

You can listen and subscribe to No Stop Lights with Ken Ard on a variety of hosting platforms.