The Hero Interviews – Pamela Slim

Pam Slim is the writer of the Escape From Cubicle Nation blog and the owner of Ganas Consulting.  Her blog was a catalyst for my departure from an office job to starting my own business.  She writes with an incredibly friendly voice – how she manages that, I don’t know.  She used to work with gang members in San Francisco as the Executive Director of a non-profit martial arts organization.  Now she helps people make the move from the cubicle to freedom.  Make sure you watch her Declaration of Independence on the Ganas main page.

1) Who was your hero as a child and why?

My Dad was my hero as a child. I was drawn to every part of his life: dedication to community service (he was in local politics, and was always volunteering), love of the environment (he started the first curbside recycling program in my native Marin County, California in the early 70’s), love of books (he used to read to me, and always had a book in his hand), love of people (I never heard him say a discriminatory or derogatory remark about anyone from anywhere) and love of work (he is a passionate photographer).

2) Who is your hero now and why?

I have to admit that it hasn’t changed. He doesn’t pretend to be perfect, but that is what makes him loveable. He is a safe, supportive and inspired individual. And at 73 is not showing any signs of slowing up. I hope I am as enthusiastic about life as he is when I reach his age.