But let me start with Dan.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

On the back of the card, I found a personalized, handwritten note from Dan Gilbert, thanking me for my efforts with the company and for taking valuable time out of my week to spend at the conference.

FORBES: Walk the Walk: It's How You Make Me Feel

Independently produced for Tell Me More by Jay Allison and Dan Gediman with John Gregory and Viki Merrick.

NPR: Finding Hope in Hip-Hop

This morning Dan sent me and his other subscribers an e-mail with his strong comments on Vanguard finally firing AllianceBernstein.

FORBES: Should Vanguard's Directors Be Sued For Mismanaging U.S. Growth Fund?

Which brings me back to the interview that I had with Dan Alban.

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It was a sultry September, and a snack of dan dan noodles seasoned with salty preserved vegetables, perky Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil kept me alert in the intense humidity.

WSJ: Lust for Spice: Sichuan Peppercorn Recipes

An excellent article with advice on how to build a personal brand was written by Dan Schawbel, author of Me 2.0: Build a Powerful Brand to Achieve Career Success.

FORBES: Build A Personal Brand, Not Just A Career

So as I picked up the phone to chat with Dan Alban about the decision, I tried to keep in mind what my friend had said to me about preconceived notions.

FORBES: Attorney Who Bested IRS In Tax Preparer Regulation Case Speaks Out