I think we've learned that the S.B.A. plays a critical role in providing access and opportunity when the market is not providing that access. We help banks get that money out into the hands of important and viable businesses, particularly those owned by minorities, women, immigrants and veterans.

We've gotten tremendous support. Everybody now understands how critical it is to help small businesses get out of this recession and into recovery.

We are very much engaged across the government, very much engaged in streamlining and simplifying our activities with borrowers and lenders, because that saves time and saves costs and we believe we can do that while maintaining the same or increased levels of oversight and risk management.

I recently had the opportunity to participate in Inc.'s first-ever 'Hire Power Awards' event in Washington, D.C. The event was a testament to the power of American entrepreneurship and the role that it plays in driving job creation and innovation in a wide array of industries.

When I started my first company, I still had a 40-hour a week job. I was working on my company on nights and weekends before I took the plunge and gave up a salary.

I work for my personal satisfaction and then for my bosses as well, and as long as I get the thumbs up and get paid by somebody, I feel like I'm doing my job, and I'm cool with that.

A lot of young people who I employ expect a raise after three months or expect not to have to put in more work than what's in their job description.

It's incredible to have been part of fashion history - my whole career has been one big highlight.