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For those of you who haven't checked it out, DASH is a seriously good magazine for those who are interested in sport and nutrition.
We caught up with the magazine's founder Amy Hamilton about what it takes to start up your own publication.
Where did the inspiration come from for your company? What’s the story behind it?
You really don’t want the whole story. I just saw a spot in the market (a spot which has since been well and truly flooded) and went for it. If I knew then what I know now, I’d never do it again! As for the idea for the magazine, I like wordplay, so the name DASH was an excellent opportunity to create a memorable acronym: diet, adventure, sport and health.
Why would I want to trade places with you? What are the best things about your life?
I love my life, to the point where I try to keep quiet about it for fear of irritating the crap out of people. Job, partner, house, cat, friends, family – all fabulous. I’m sort of a cheerful, optimistic type who’s very fit and motivated. So if we did trade lives, I’d probably quite like yours too.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I’d like to go a little further with my education and pursue some post-graduate qualifications, but that’s a secret so don’t tell anyone. I hope to complete a marathon this year. I also foresee many more happy birthdays and indulgent celebrations.
What’s the best decision you’ve made in business? And the worst?
My best business decision was made on Tuesday, and you’ll spot the results in the August issue. Apart from that, starting the business in the first place was either the best, or the worst, decision ever; I’m not yet certain which. Other bad decisions included some poor hiring choices, occasional over-paying – and once or twice some truly awful content which makes me cringe when I look back.
Describe yourself (extra points if you can use a combination of the letters in your name and your company’s) in five words.
Well, DASH plus AMY is six different letters, so if I’m allowed an additional word I’ll try for the extra points, Bob. Determined, Accident-prone, Sporty, Hale, Mercurial, Yakker. Hmm, I should have taken the extra A and left out the Y.
Which nzgirl most inspires/inspired you?
I’m inspired by all the nzgirls who have made this country the relatively egalitarian society it is. From Kate Sheppard to Helen Clark, we lead the world in gender equality, a fact which makes me very proud to be an nzgirl.
What are three important lessons you’ve learnt along the way? Lesson #1: Eleanor Roosevelt puts it perfectly: “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
Lesson #2: Ask lots of questions. A superlative strategy for interviews, making friends, securing second dates and learning lots of new stuff.
Lesson #3: You can get ahead in life without blowing your own trumpet. If you work hard and cultivate good relationships, other people will notice and want to work with you. Every time I’ve tried to seriously self-promote, I’ve regretted it. It’s just not really me.
Any advice for nzgirls?
I’ve usually found that when people ask for advice, they only take it if you tell them what they want to hear. So how’s this: look after your body and your mind; they’re the only ones you’ve got. That means as much exercise, good food, laughter, sex and relaxation as you can handle.