Three Minutes Across the Counter With: Traci Segal and John Minihan

You may know that that they own Daddy's Dairy in Stoughton, but did you know they used to call the shop "Minhan's Handy Store"? Spend three minutes behind the counter with Stoughton business owners Traci Segal and John Minihan. 

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

Traci & John: Daddy's Dairy started out as a variety store in Randolph called Minihan's Handy Store. As a variety store we sold cigarettes, lottery, soda, penny candy, snacks, and ice cream. Traci Segal I added hard ice cream and renamed the business "Daddy's Dairy".

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

T&J: My father ran the variety store for thirty years. I worked for my dad while I was in college. I learned how he ran the business and how he engaged customers. He has a thorough knowledge and understanding of a small business and would only offer advice when asked.  

P: How long have you lived here?

T&J: Traci and I have lived in Stoughton for 7 years.

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

T&J: The community.The people of Stoughton are very friendly. We have had the opportunity to watch many young people graduate High School and go on to college. The Municipal and Government offices are excellent. The Police and Fire departments do a terrific job keeping our town safe.

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

T&J: I thought it was risky abandoning the variety store to sell only ice cream. We chose Ice Cream and it worked out well.

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

T&J: Do what you like and be the best as you possibly can at it. Most of all, make sure you love what you do and have fun while you’re doing it.

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

T&J: Be absolutely honest with yourself about a venture. Listen to your loved ones. They give encouragement, advice, and support when it is most needed. Factor in failure and be certain you can afford to fail.

P: What do you look for when you hire?

T&J: We look for people who are polite, honest, courteous, friendly, helpful and intelligent. We want employees to represent the company with enthusiasm. 

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