Monday, June 6, 2011 | 3 a.m.
Dina Mitchell, area developer for Topical Smoothie Cafe, celebrated a decade in her job last month. Mitchell, a former radio host in Moscow and actress in Paris, says she owes her success to one thing and one thing only: hard work.
Tell us, do you have a business philosophy you follow?
I believe in hard work. That’s the one thing that’s brought me success. I don’t think you have to be talented or lucky. It’s about how hard you’re willing to work.
What was your first job?
I had a Kool-Aid stand. I cut open a refrigerator box and sold Kool-Aid and cookies. I was six years old.
What was your worst job?
I really wasn’t fond of real estate. I was a Realtor when I was 19. Having to sit in open houses and show people the same homes over and over again. I did it for a couple of years. Other than that, I’ve always enjoyed working.
What’s your favorite pair of shoes?
Nude Jimmy Choo pumps.
What kind of car do you drive?
A black Range Rover.
If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Can I pick more than one? Steve Martin, George Burns, Marilyn Monroe,Audrey Hepburn, Sarah Jessica Parker, Matthew McConaughey. It’d be a big table.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
An actress. My mom was a director, so I’ve played just about every character in the Nutcracker you can think of. At 18, I realized that being successful in the theatrical world doesn’t mean success financially. That was a choice I made.
Do you have a special pen?
I have a special pen I use for contracts. My black Mont Blanc.
What’s the one show you have to DVR every week?
Today, it’s Cougar Town. I also like True Blood and Dexter.
You’re trapped on a desert island. What two CDs do you want to have with you?
I can promise that you neither of them would be country.
What’s the one thing you never leave the house without?
My two phones. I can’t decide which one I like better, my BlackBerry or my iPhone.
What’s the one movie you could watch over and over again?
Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I could also watch all episodes of Sex and the City over and over again.
What’s your favorite smoothie?
At my shops it’s “Peanut Paradise.” It’s made with peanut butter, banana, yogurt and whey protein. It’s really, really good.
What’s your favorite vacation spot?
Rome is definitely my favorite. I’m never bored there, and it’s not so romantic that I have to go with a guy. There’s so much history—and the pasta. It’s just great.
Parting words?
I have no shame when it comes to my business. I am my brand. I think it’s important to rep yourself. Also, I’m single.
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