Shirin Etessam is ‘Free to Be’

August 15, 2024• byShirin Etessam

I was introduced to Shirin Etessam when she was first promoting her new book. But I’ll always think of her as the person who got me hooked on the pleasures of strolling through Blackie’s Pasture in Tiburon.

What do you do?

My background is in film, television and the agency world. But last year, I wrote a book called Free to Be: A Six Week Guide to Reclaiming Your Soul, which has launched me into the exciting realms of human potential and self-transformation. I’m developing a new TV series and an app, and loving every moment!

Where do you live?

Mill Valley, with my lovely wife and two kids (18 and 16 years old).

How long have you lived in Marin?

In Marin since 2010.

Where can we find you when you’re not at work?

Taking peaceful walks with friends, cheering at my kids’ games and tournaments, enjoying a game of pool at Smitty’s, soaking in the tranquility at Spirit Rock or getting my hands dirty in the garden.

If you had to convince someone how awesome Marin is, where would you take them?

I’d start with a scenic stroll down Bridgeway in Sausalito, followed by lunch at Sam’s in Tiburon. Next, we’d hike through the headlands via the Coastal Trail, ending at the Pelican Inn for a refreshing beer. As the day winds down, we’d gather for a bonfire at Muir or Stinson Beach, and cap it all off with an inspiring evening of Dharma talk at Spirit Rock.

What’s one thing Marin is missing?

Diversity. Socio-economic, racial, LGBTQ+ and cultural diversity.

What’s one bit of advice you’d share with your fellow Marinites?

Don’t be a Karen.

If you could ask anyone to join you at dinner, who would you invite?

It would have to be a big table. Anais Nin, David Bowie, Michelle and Barack Obama, Oprah, Richard Branson, Brene Brown, Alan Watts, Einstein, James Baldwin, Rumi and Beyoncé…because no party is complete without Beyoncé.

What’s some advice you wish you knew 20 years ago?

Three things. 1. Don’t believe everything you think. 2. Not everyone is your people…and that is OK. 3. You are truly the sum of your choices. Choose wisely.

What’s something that 20 years from now will seem cringeworthy?

I imagine we’ll look back and realize how much of life we missed by being perpetually online, instead of being present and fully engaged with the world around us.

Big question. What’s one thing you’d do to change the world?

I’d make play and mindfulness integral parts of our daily lives and educational systems. Play nurtures creativity and joy, while mindfulness fosters peace and resilience.

Keep up with Etessam at shirinetessam.com.

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