Jacob Espinoza:
From “The Kid” to The Man

Jacob Espinoza is Oregon’s Homeboy. In 2007, Jacob may have better been known as local hip-hop artist “The Kid Espi.” He made a name for himself in the northwest hip-hip scene with the song “Oregon Homeboy” and even opened for Twista and E40 back in the day. Not only was he a performer, he was also the publisher of We Out Here Magazine (WOHM). Although he no longer performs and has passed the reigns of WOHM, his legacy lives on — The magazine is thriving and continues to spotlight northwest hip-hop artists. 

These days, Jacob is a leadership development consultant, facilitating training and coaching conversations, and hosting his podcast “New Leader Workshop.” Come January, he will also don the hat of on-stage host for TEDxSalem. And he seems a natural fit for this year’s event since its theme is “Vision.” Jacob is compassionate, motivated and supportive, which is why it should come as no surprise that he has a goal of becoming the city’s most supportive person. When not working, you can find Jacob coaching youth sports, listening to local artists and give out a lot of free high fives.

So stop and give the person next to you a high five while we find out what this “Kid” has to say!

Favorite thing about Salem? There is so much opportunity and access. If you are humble, hard-working and smart, you can generally find someone in an industry you are passionate about to help. It’s also great being only an hour’s drive away from the beach, mountains and Blazer games. 

Favorite thing to do in Salem? I really enjoy connecting with people. Grabbing a coffee and having a conversation is really rewarding for me. 

Go-to karaoke song? I’m not particular, I generally let people pick for me.

If you could recover one thing you have lost in your life, what would it be? El-P is a rapper who doesn’t have his music on streaming services. He released an album called Fantastic Damage in 2002. I’ve bought the album probably three times, but I wish I still had it to listen to. 

What does courage mean to you? For me, courage is being able to face criticism for standing up for something you believe in. The mob mentality is scary and the impact gets multiplied on social media. Being willing to stick to your values is important.

If you were to meet your 18-year-old self, what advice would you give him? Work hard, save your money and invest in Apple. 

If you could go back in history, who would you want to hang out with? Mahatma Gandhi — An incredible and fearless leader. 

What do you wish you knew more about? How to keep my desk organized.

What’s your secret talent? Helping people be their best

Chocolate or vanilla? Vanilla

Early or late? I definitely see the value in getting up early, but definitely not early. 

This story originally ran in Press Play Salem issue 10 (Dec 2019/Jan 2020).