People used to feel oddly empowered to tell me all the reasons I couldn't win. Because I was a woman. Because I was a lesbian. Because I was from the West Side of Manhattan.

I have a tendency toward being a micromanager. Which, the bigger the project you're involved in, the harder that becomes.

I have always said I've had a big personality, and I've always said I'm a pushy broad, and I've always said I want to get things done.

I think it's really important to realize that small businesses are often the portal for immigrants into the New York City economy.

I'm in a position where, if you have the ability, you should use it well. To get things done.

At the end of the day, somebody someday is going to say something about you. At least you can look back and say you lived the way you wanted to.

I just want people to know you can get through stuff. I hope people can see that in what my life has been and where it is going.