We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary Mcdonough and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk taking has had everything to do with starting a new business, especially at an age where most people are hoping to retire soon. My husband and I have been talking about starting a business, The Pub McDonough, a traditional Irish pub, since 2014. About 3 years ago, we discussed either quit talking about the Pub or just go for it. We decided to go for it! The restaurant/bar industry isn’t easy, so it’s taken a lot of courage, determination, and love for what we’re doing to keep going.

The biggest risk factor is that I have never owned or really worked in the food service industry.

I’ve always been a risk taker. I believe that I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. I’ve been pretty successful at anything I’ve ever done because of that attitude.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been working since I was a young teenager. I grew up very poor, so I had to work to sometimes help my family and for some things I needed or wanted. I’ve always worked because I had to. I’ve survived some very challenging times. Both my parents instilled an old-fashioned work ethic in me, which I’m grateful for. I’ve never really worked a job I wanted to for the love of it. My jobs have been to make a living. Having a vision that turned into reality makes me pretty proud of myself. It’s sometimes surreal when I hear people in our Pub laughing and I realize they made a conscious decision to come to our place. Hearing people say such good things about the food (I make and prepare the weekly menu) and atmosphere makes me very proud.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take my friend to the Florida Keys to enjoy the warm sunshine, great food and laid-back atmosphere. People are there to have fun and relax. Having time to unwind and decompress is mentally and physically healthy. Not being on a schedule is too. I’d just hang out and not have any worries!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband Kevin McDonough. There isn’t anyone else I would ever consider going into business with. We have always worked together very well and really enjoy being around each other. Both have our own strengths & weaknesses, so we balance each other out. I know I can count on him.

Website: https://thepubtx.com

Instagram: thepubmcdonough

Twitter: thepubmcdonough

Facebook: thepubmcdonough

Yelp: The Pub McDonough

Other: email: info@thepubtx.com

Image Credits
Sarah Chase

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.