SQLAuthority News – Pinal Dave: Blogger, MVP and now Interviewee by Michael J Swart

Michael J Swart interviewed me about blogging, family, and the people who shaped my work. The conversation went beyond SQL Server and into stories I had not shared in earlier interviews. Even the pronunciation of my name became part of the discussion.

Michael Brings Art Into SQL Server

Before this interview, Michael and I had exchanged emails. I’d also used a couple of Michael’s scripts in presentations, with permission. One favorite used spatial data to draw Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.

That combination of technical skill and creativity is what I enjoy about Michael’s work. The articles explain SQL Server ideas, while the illustrations give them a personal touch. For this interview, Michael brought that same creativity to questions about my life.

A Few Questions From the Interview

Michael asked about the person behind SQLAuthority as well as the blog itself. The questions gave me a chance to talk about family, memorable moments, and learning. These are some of the topics we covered:

• How Nupur and I met.
• The moments in my life that mean the most to me.
• How to pronounce my name.
• The people who inspired and encouraged me.
• Writing and teaching when English is my third language.

The question about English connects closely with how I write this blog. In the interview, I talked about using simple language and making technical subjects approachable. Everyone starts as a beginner when a subject is new.

The conversation also covered the MVP award, finding time to write, and making time for family. Those questions belong alongside the technical ones. They help explain the choices behind the work.

Read the Interview by Michael J Swart

You can read the full interview on Michael’s blog. It was published on February 9, 2011. The original questions and answers are there, along with the illustration.

Thank you, Michael, for the thoughtful questions and for drawing this caricature. I appreciated the time and care that went into both. The picture deserves its place here alongside the conversation.

An interview is not only about a career, it is about the person doing the work.

Published by Pinal Dave on SQLAuthority. More of my work at pinaldave.com.