John Paul DeJoria's very best Austin day
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John Paul DeJoria, co-founder of Patrón and Paul Mitchell. Photo: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images
John Paul DeJoria has built billion-dollar brands, including Paul Mitchell hair products and Patrón tequila, but the Austin entrepreneur and philanthropist says success means little if you don't share it.
Driving the news: DeJoria released his memoir, "Success Unshared Is Failure," earlier this year, which tells the story of his life — from twice experiencing homelessness to building a business empire.
- The Navy veteran, who was awarded a key to the city last year, supports local causes through his Peace, Love & Happiness Foundation, including Patriots' Hall in Dripping Springs and the Paramount Theatre renovation.
We caught up with DeJoria as part of our running series to learn about his ideal day in Austin.
You get to spend a perfect day in Austin. What are you doing first?
"When I first wake up, I drink a full glass of water at room temperature and meditate for five minutes. While I am meditating, I always make time for gratitude. I say, 'Thank you, creator of souls, for this incredible life you've given me, and can I go forth to this day to be the observer without judgment?'
- Then, I brush my teeth, walk around the house, and smile at everyone I see."
What's for breakfast?
"I drink a half of a cup of cappuccino, or a regular coffee, with biscotti every day.
- Then, I will go outside with my wife, Eloise, and sit in the sun for about 10 minutes. ... Of course, our dog Klaus is right there with us. He gets a little piece of a biscotti every single morning."
What are you doing before lunch?
"I work from home when I'm in Austin. In the morning, I touch base via phone with my European businesses; then I'll work with my stateside teams.
- I don't own a computer. But typically I call, or I'll write a handwritten letter. I like that personal touch; it's old-fashioned, but it works for me."
Tell us your lunch plans.
"I love going to Poodie's with my friend Gary Spellman. It's a great place right outside of Austin, one of the coolest little bars in the country. We'll get a Poodie's Burger with jalapeño peppers and split it in half."
How are you spending the afternoon?
"I spend many of my afternoons with Constance Dykhuizen, the founding executive director of my Peace Love & Happiness Foundation. We'll stop by one of our partner organizations — for example, Mobile Loaves & Fishes."
What's for dinner?
"The number of incredible dining spots in Austin has massively expanded since I first moved here.
- However, I'm also lucky to eat at home. The best cook in the world, Judd Servidio, is in my house as a personal chef."
How are you wrapping up the night?
"What most people do — brush my teeth and get ready for bed. But similar to my mornings, I make sure to leave space for gratitude."