“A Day in the Life” is a series where we’ll profile a variety of residents to get an intimate glimpse into their day-to-day. These are your neighbors. Get to know them.

“Life should NOT be a journey to the grave … but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, wine in the other … screaming, WHOO HOO, what a ride!” – John Maguire

Many of you may remember last fall’s Boston Globe piece on John Maguire, CEO of the well-known ice cream chain, Friendly’s. The article discussed how the CEO planned to resuscitate one of Massachusetts’s most iconic fast-serve restaurants by implementing a chain-wide overhaul in 2014. Maguire, a Weymouth native, is designing a business strategy based on extensive consumer insights in hopes of revitalizing the Friendly’s brand.

Prior to his appointment at Friendly’s, Maguire was executive vice president and COO at Panera Bread. The CEO is now focused on a successful 2014 (and future) for the Friendly’s chain. Maguire told the Boston Globe, “If there’s any advantage I have over the past few CEOs, it’s that I grew up with it (Friendly’s), and so I remember what its core is and what it’s supposed to be and what it meant to people.”

Here, the very busy CEO gives BostInno a glimpse into his daily routine.

How do you spend most mornings?

I’m up at 5:30 every morning. I typically check my email and my calendar to organize my day. If I am ambitious enough I get on my elliptical machine.

What are the top priorities on your to-do list right now?

Furthering our progress on improving the guest experience; continuing our work on remodeling our restaurants; preparing for new restaurant openings and growing our grocery store business.

If you could impart one piece of advice to our readers, what would it be?

Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, wine in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming, “WHOO HOO, what a ride!” I really mean that.

What is your favorite kind of ice cream at Friendly’s and why?

Black Raspberry. Because it’s a classic; the smell brings me back to my childhood.

What is the worst part and the best part about your typical day?

WORST:  Wrestling with the decision to get on the elliptical machine or not.

BEST: Spending time with people in our restaurants, and here in our Creamery and Support Center.

What would you do if you were suddenly granted a day off from work tomorrow?

Sleep to at least 5:45; spend the day with my family.

What’s one TV show you can’t live without right now?

Life Below Zero (after all I’m in the ice cream business!).

If you weren’t answering my questions, what would you be doing instead?

Working on my holiday message to the organization.

Think you have an interesting day-to-day life or know someone who does? Send an email to marian@americaninno.com/boston and let us know!