Michael Dorf: One National Tragedy Away from Changing his Trajectory

City Winery Founder and Chief Executive Michael Dorf dropped out of law school at age twenty-three to found New York City’s Knitting Factory, which The New York Times later called “one of the most influential downtown music clubs of the 1990s.” He was recognized as an Internet music pioneer by webcasting the first live music stream from a club anywhere in the world. In 2008, Michael brought together his love for music and wine by opening City Winery, Manhattan’s first fully-functional winery, restaurant, music venue, and private event space. It now has thriving locations in major cities across the United States. Since 2006, his Carnegie Hall tribute concert series has raised more than $1.5 million to benefit music education programs. National media outlets have praised him as an important music impresario and New York Magazine lauded him one of the “10 Most Influential New Yorkers.” 

 

Owning a bar close to Ground Zero left a lasting impact on Michael’s worldview. Find out how one of the most difficult events in American history led Michael toward a more meaningful life on the One Away Show.

 

The One Away Moment:

 Michael’s inflection point was during 9/11 when he had the profound sense to do something meaningful in his life that eventually got him into starting a city winery.

 

Three Key Takeaways:

 

1. DTC is the best way to go in the wine business to preserve margins.

2. Having a high EQ is a critical trait of a good leader 

3. Communicating clearly as a leader is equally important as being sensitive about the employees emotions.