Conversations with the Inspiring Monique Espinoza

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique Espinoza.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have been writing since I was about 8 years old. My first “published” piece was in my school district’s literary magazine in the third grade, I still remember the piece I wrote. I have always used writing as an outlet, a type of therapy to express myself. In high school, I joined a writing club, but other than that I kept my writing to myself. For years, I put it on the back burner until about a year and a half ago, I was invited to go to an open mic at The Mesa Arts Center… there, I was completely forced out of my comfort zone and read a few super short pieces I happened to have on my phone. From that point on, I was hooked! I’ve performed at over a dozen open mics and have really grown as a writer and performer.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I would say, I am just getting started, so I’m sure there are obstacles I am going to face. So far, I have been very lucky to have amazing mentors by my side to give me advice. The biggest challenge I have had is trying to find my own style and confidence on stage. For any women trying to pursue this route, specifically, I would just say write, write, write, perform… then, write some more. Exposing yourself to different artists helps you find your own style and really pushes you to be the best version of yourself.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into your business story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a performing spoken word artist/ poet. I perform at different open mics around the valley, but my home base is WordPlay cafe hosted at The Nile. I am also in school studying psychology and this summer I will start training to become a teaching artist with an organization called Phonetic Spit. I think they all go hand in hand. I want to use writing and performance as a way to help people cope with the overwhelming feelings life gives you, as well as giving people that don’t normally have a voice the strength to speak up.

Who do you look up to? How have they inspired you?
My mother is a huge inspiration, she’s literally superwoman! She’s one of the most creative, hard-working people I know. Everything she does is always fierce from the pinatas she makes from scratch to the way she loves and protects her family. I aspire to be like her. Also, I have a group of insanely talented woman that surround me. They help me push myself and snap out it if I’m doubting myself. We all really motivate each other.

Contact Info:

• Email: MONIQUEALEXIS15@GMAIL.COM
• Instagram: @_mo_tivation

Image Credit:
Stimuli Photography, Creative Catalyst

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