Bankrate: I remember you told me once that you and your family enjoy baking together. Do you still?

Debbi Fields: Oh yes. My hobby is baking -- I love that. I'm in the kitchen a lot. That's still the gathering place for the family. I sometimes don't know why I even have a living room because nobody bothers to go in there. I find the way I can express how I feel for people is to go in the kitchen and bake up a batch of something -- whether it's cookies, pies or cakes. I feel if I can make something from my kitchen -- it's really something from the heart. It's also my way of relaxing, too. To go in and whip up something and serve to my family or serve to a friend, is a wonderful feeling. I say my office is my kitchen, and it was nice when the kids were younger -- having them involved with my work. 

Bankrate: Your cookie stores now sell more than chocolate chip cookies. Your fudge brownie is really delicious.

Debbi Fields: My super fudge brownies are something I baked because my kids love chocolate and they used to love when the Easter bunny brought them chocolate goodies. I remember I'd make a pan, put it in the refrigerator, then take out the pan and cut into different shapes. The butter cookies are wonderful butter cookies because they're still delicate. Adding a glaze or frosting makes them vibrant. 

Bankrate: What is your philosophy on business?

Debbi Fields: As a businesswoman, my philosophy of excellence is stated in my motto: "Good Enough Never Is." I feel that you need to provide the best in product quality and superior customer service. That way you can earn customer loyalty. 

Bankrate: What would you tell other would-be entrepreneurs about starting a business?

Debbi Fields: The important thing is not being afraid to take a chance. Remember, the greatest failure is to not try. Once you find something you love to do, be the best at doing it. I remember my parents taught me an important lesson. They were never really interested in hearing about Mrs. Fields and the growth of it. The only thing that mattered to them was that I stay Debbi. It wasn't what I did or what I accomplished -- what mattered most to them was that I never got too big for my britches and that I always remembered where I came from. I think I owe my mom and dad a lot for that. My parents cared about the quality person you are and felt that mattered most.