I grew up in an environment of jokes and sarcasm and puns. I talk that way, so I write that way.

When I started writing a business column 15 years ago, I knew I'd found the perfect job for myself. As a columnist I could pick my own topic, do my own analysis, say what I wanted to say and attribute it to myself. Best of all, I could write in my own voice.

I've spent my career trying to help people without connections understand what's going on so that they have a chance of getting a fair shake from the connected and the powerful.

Go for the gold: better one great column and some undistinguished ones than constant mediocrity.

Teamwork is better than isolation, especially for a columnist.

I don't tolerate whining, I look at people & say 'you're a victim, it's not your fault' figure our how to survive!

I grew up in an environment of jokes and sarcasm and puns. I talk that way, so I write that way.