Three Minutes Across the Counter With: Daniel Freedman

You may know that he owns Blue Moon Bagel Cafe in Medfield, but did you know he was also a certified yoga instructor? Spend three minutes behind the counter with Medfield business owner Daniel Freedman. 

Patch: How did you get your first start in business?

Daniel: I worked in a family business, a.k.a. Green Freedman. It was a large wholesale/retail bakery established at the turn of the century.

P: How did your parents influence you as a business owner?

D: My dad was my first mentor for sure, and both my parents instilled in us a work ethic for myself and other siblings.

P: How long have you lived here?

D: I am from this area.

P: What's your favorite thing about living here?

D: I love this area. I utilize its four seasons. I love the conservation land and the lakes. When not baking, I am usually outside, swimming kayaking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing or out walking in the woods with my dog.

P: What's a business mistake you've made that later you were glad you did?

D: I once bought a dough scalier at an auction that I overpaid for. I got caught up in the bidding. In the end I used that one piece of equipment for next 15 years, I sold bread to all the best restaurants in Boston.

P: Tell us something about yourself that most of your neighbors don't know.

D: I am certified Kundalini Yoga instructor. I studied various forms of yoga and meditation since I was 15. 

P: What's the best business advice you've ever received?

D: Do what you have a passion for , not what is going to make you the most money. Do what you love first and foremost.

P: What advice would you give to a small business owner just starting out?

D: The same -- do what you have a passion for not what is going to make you the most money.

P: What do you look for when you hire?

D: Someone who can grasp our our concepts in business, namely In retail it is all about the customer. This is a service industry. That is for most what we are all about.

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Nominate someone from your community for the Patch Park Bench interview. Send suggestions to mattp@patch.com.