We had the good fortune of connecting with Mariana Guerrero and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariana, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
It took me a long time to understand that as long as your identity and worth are not dependent on the goal you are pursuing, it becomes easier to know when it is time to let go—whether it’s a dream, a person, or a job. Taking breaks has always helped me put things in perspective, release attachments to a specific outcome, and see if my actions are still bringing me joy and purpose.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an actor, a fiber artist, a podcast producer/host, and an acting teacher. I was born legally blind and gained my eyesight through an innovative surgery six years ago. This experience made me realize how fortunate I am to have experienced both worlds. Growing up, emotions were my way of seeing, and now I have my sight to back it up. I remember waking up and feeling grateful that I could feel the light on my eyes—it was all so magical. However, as time went by, I normalized this beautiful miracle to the point where I almost forgot it even existed.

I share this because I am currently working on focusing on all the little miracles that surround me, especially when my professional expectations get the better of me.

What sets me apart is my unique perspective—having navigated the world both with and without sight—and my deep connection to my emotions and experiences. This perspective helps me when diving into the worlds of my characters, weaving through textiles, or connecting more deeply with my podcast guests.

I want to be remembered as someone who always sought ways to love herself and others deeply, and who created and learned until her last days. This is the essence of my story.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Welcome to Guadalajara, Mexico! I’ll be your tour guide for the week.

Thursday: We’ll visit Tlaquepaque to explore its beautiful colonial architecture and artisanal wonders. Dinner will be at Casa Luna, known for its magnificent ambiance and delicious food.

Friday: We’ll head to Tequila, a city near Guadalajara that feels like it’s straight out of the movie Coco. We’ll arrive by train, sipping tequila along the way, and tour the agave fields to learn everything about tequila production.

Saturday: Take the morning to recover, then we’ll explore Chapultepec, known for its excellent restaurants, clubs, and bars, all within walking distance.

Sunday: Downtown to El Centro! We’ll visit our cathedral, Instituto Cultural Cabañas, and MUSA (Museo de las Artes Universidad de Guadalajara).

Monday: Spend the day with my family, amazing cooks (not me sadly) who will treat you to a delicious meal. For dinner, we’ll dine at I-Latina, known for its exquisite cuisine.

Tuesday: We’ll venture to Chapala, a beautiful lake near Guadalajara. Relax by the water, take a boat ride, and enjoy local cuisine.

Bonus: Tacos every night!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people and influences that have played a significant role in my journey. After twelve years of living in LA, I am back in Mexico and reconnecting with my roots, friends, and family. My shoutout is to them—thank you for making me feel like no time has passed while allowing me to rediscover our new connection. I also want to acknowledge a life-changing conversation: Oprah & Eckhart Tolle: A New Earth. I had so many “Aha!” moments; it was the first time I felt that understanding my essence could make me happier, and I have embarked on that journey since then.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammarianaguerrero/

Other: If you speak Spanish and enjoy self-help topics with experts, make sure to check out my podcast, “Encantada de Conocerme.”

youtube: https://youtube.com/@encantadadeconocerme?si=kY8Hvx50oiSRtlYP

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.