Author Nick Cohen
I was browsing the “local authors” section at Sugarfoot Books in San Anselmo and came across Nick Cohen’s new book, HONEST!, and had a flashback. Decades ago when I lived in NYC, I mailed in my resume to work at the award-winning ad agency Mad Dogs & Englishmen that Cohen started. Never heard back. At least he responded to my request for this profile. No hard feelings, honest!
What do you do?
I’m a creative director working primarily as a writer, helping brands find their authentic, lovable voices. I’m a big believer in radical honesty, warts ’n’ all. My biggest claim to fame was probably starting a rebellious New York ad agency called Mad Dogs & Englishmen. I just published a fun book all about the ridiculous stuff we did, called HONEST!
Where do you live?
We (my wife, Shazza; my boys, Aidan, Wyatt; and myself) live in Mill Valley, close to the Dipsea Steps.
How long have you lived in Marin?
Since 2000, after living in NYC. I’m a transplanted Brit who long ago fell head over heels in love with an American (my wife) and then America, I think because it was a place where it seemed OK to be happy-go-lucky, and the weather was less gray.
Where can we find you when you’re not at work?
Usually with my four crazy dogs hanging out at Stinson Beach.
If you had to convince someone how awesome Marin is, where would you take them?
To the top of Mount Tam! It’s so peaceful and spectacular. It never fails to astonish.
What’s one thing Marin is missing?
Um … could use a bit more diversity!
What’s one bit of advice you’d share with your fellow Marinites?
Every day, say “Hi” to someone you don’t know.
If you could ask anyone to join you at dinner, who would you invite?
Norm Macdonald would be a blast. He seemed very humble and curious.
What’s some advice you wish you knew 20 years ago?
Don’t let pragmatism get in the way of adventure. I’ve always known that. But I think as I’ve gotten older, I’ve been less stupid, which is a big mistake.
What’s something that 20 years from now will seem cringeworthy?
Cardboard boxes with Amazon labels.
Big question. What’s one thing you’d do to change the world?
Abolish smartphones!!!!
Keep up with Cohen at Tish-Tosh.com or at bit.ly/nick-cohen.
Nish Nadaraja was on the founding team at Yelp, serves on the San Anselmo Arts Commission and still watches the ads on TV.
