How He Helped Create Miami’s Nightlife Empire | Mo Garcia

Mo Garcia is one of the key figures who helped shape Miami’s nightlife scene into what it is today. From launching SMAC Entertainment and partnering with Dave Grutman to building the foundation of legendary spots like LIV, Gala, and beyond, his story is filled with innovation, intensity, and reinvention.

In this episode, Mo opens up about his early days in party promotion, his transition out of nightlife, and how tragedy and reflection led him to new beginnings in Bimini. It’s a raw, powerful look at the man behind Miami’s most unforgettable nights.

Manny Alfonso:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mannyalfonso8/

Kiko Suarez:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/querikoconkiko/

Eduardo Moya:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr_moya/

Follow Us! - A Day in Miami:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adayinmiami/

Listen on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/20WEys6jxiliBCLoo9iSID
________________________
Produced by: Ben Schwede
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benthecreatorrr/

0:00 Intro
1:31 Growth of ADIM Podcast
4:57 His Cuban Household and Family Story
12:07 Human Trafficking in Miami
14:06 How the City Has Changed
15:03 Beginning of SMAC Entertainment
16:54 Call with Cedric Gervais
19:03 OF Girls
22:07 Kiko Working for Mo
23:16 Marketing Parties in the 80s
31:34 Parties in Vegas and End of SMAC
37:39 His Time After SMAC and Meeting David Grutman
42:01 Opening LIV
46:45 Starting LIV on Sundays Parties
51:56 Throwing Out Bad Bunny From the Club (Almost)
54:17 Exiting Nightlife and Groot Hospitality
58:26 Miserable Life After Exit
1:01:36 Traveling During Pandemic
1:04:31 Moving to Bimini
1:05:53 Opening Gala and Tragic Accident
1:08:38 Fountainbleu Las Vegas
1:09:53 Papi Steak
1:16:54 Restaurants Failing
1:19:22 Advice for Younger Self
1:20:55 Getting Married and Kids?
1:23:47 Brandsmart Wishlist
1:25:05 Top 3 Restaurants
1:28:28 River is Growing