Jason E. Kaplan
Cobi Lewis checks the shelves at Powell’s City of Books in downtown Portland.
Relaxing with the CEO and Executive Director of Microenterprise Services of Oregon
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What are you reading?
I always have my Kindle with me, in every bag or purse I carry, and secretly, I’m always reading a romance novel. I only read work-related books or topics when I’m at work.
What are you looking at?
I have a weakness for shows about medical procedures or true crime documentaries.
What are you listening to?
I have a very wide range of music in my collection and I have a bit of love for most genres, but I have a soft spot for 80s and 90s pop and R&B hits, any song I can sing along to.
What is your must-have gadget?
Definitely my Kindle e-reader and my dental floss. You will never find me without both.
What are your hobbies/interests?
Reading, arts and crafts, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.
What was your childhood or your first ambition?
I wanted to be a doctor, a neonatologist in particular. I was on this path until my early college years, and then my interests changed.
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
Nationally, I love Hawaii and New Orleans. Internationally, I really enjoyed Japan.
What is your biggest extravagance?
I tried to think of something more exciting, but ultimately, I’m a foodie. I’m adventurous and excited about good food.
What motivates you to come to work?
Help someone. It’s very simple. If I am going to spend time, sacrifice time with my own family and give the best of my professional talents, I want it to be for the benefit of someone who needs help. The reward of pushing someone else forward motivates you to keep going even when it gets difficult.
What is your professional role model?
There are a number of professionals that I appreciate for their work ethic, understanding, and running their business while remaining committed to the community and their compassion for humanity in general. Locally, I love the Colas family, retired community leader Michael Alexander, Tracy Curtis, Rukaiyah Adams and Charles Wilhoite. Most of them may not even know it, but I observe the way they listen, how they learn and interact with people.
What ambitions do you still have?
I have a few, I would like to embrace my creativity and start working on my art again. I would like to write a book someday and perhaps provide organizational development advice to nonprofits or business units.
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