Jordan Jacobo is a humorist, writer and host who’s KPBS series “Jordan Loves” highlights the seldom-explored corners and unknown history of his native San Diego, as well as featuring groups, causes, and people who are making a positive impact in the community. His work has appeared at the Old Globe Theatre as well as various streaming platforms. “Jordan Loves” featurettes are available on Facebook, TikTok & Instagram.
About Jordan Jacobo
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My family comes from all over, although my roots can most closely be traced to Jalisco, Mexico, as well as San Antonio, Texas, two places that I am incredibly proud from which to trace my roots. I grew up in San Ysidro, which is primarily an immigrant community, and I feel that it’s given me a unique perspective on the American experience.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I’ve always loved film and television and spent the better part of my youth running around with a video camera. After a nearly-decade-long career in marketing & advertising ended abruptly during the Great Recession 2008, I decided to pursue my true passion and completely threw myself into film production. I’ve been happily creating art ever since, and I hope to continue doing so until my last heartbeat.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Stay true to your goals and what’s important to you. There will always be roadblocks, obstacles, critics, and naysayers, and learning to navigate around them while staying on course is all part of the journey.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Only time will tell, but I do hope to continue creating and staying true to my ideals.
Jordan Jacobo & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
San Diego can be a culinary delight if you know where to look. Of course, we have our institutions such as Fillipis, Hob Nob Hill, or Old Town Mexican Cafe, but there are also some very notable and unique spots like Tacotarian and The Balboa, as well as Studio Diner and Baja Betty’s.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I was born and raised in San Diego, and while I’ve lived in many places, for me, it’s always been home. I feel fortunate to have found a place among its artists, creatives, luminaries and weirdos.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I know a woman named Regina Gamboa who decided to open a food pantry here in south San Diego to help families suffering from food insecurity. She’s dealt with obstacle after obstacle and managed to overcome each one to help keep people fed.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Horton Plaza has always held a very special place in my heart. Its unique, sometimes frustrating layout made it inevitable for guests to discover a new shop or corner of the mall that they may not have been aware of. It made me sad to hear that it was coming down, but I’m excited to see what’s next for the spot.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
What I love most about our community is the generous nature of so many San Diegans I’ve met. I’ve lived all over the world but never experienced the sense of community I’ve witnessed here. I’m always inspired by people’s willingness to help others without demanding anything in return, and I’ve seen so much here.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I’ve always wanted to meet Buzz Aldrin, the second man on the moon. He’s not just an American hero, but a pioneer for the progress of humanity. After the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion, I remember him appearing on television and speaking to the country’s children about the importance of space exploration and its inherent risks. I’d love to share a beer and a burger with him at Hodads!
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I think my favorite TV show of all time has to be Arrested Development. The cast was terrific, and the writing was funnier than anything I had seen on TV at the time. It was canceled early, but only because I felt, it was too ahead of its time. To me, it’s a testament to staying true to your vision, even if it isn’t appreciated.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t realize that I also dabble in visual arts. I enjoy creating silhouettes of movies I love. In fact, I have dozens of them displayed all over my living room.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The only perfect score I’d ever give would be to the film The Birdcage. To me, it’s a perfect piece of art from start to finish. I’ve seen it maybe 30 times and discovered something new with each viewing!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My most significant influence has been my mother, who devoted her life to education in San Ysidro and, after retiring, dedicated her time to raising money for scholarships for the community’s students.
Q: What community organizations and local nonprofits do you admire/support?
I support the Woman’s Club of San Ysidro, of which I’m proud to say I am an honorary member, for providing so many scholarships to students, as well as The Magnolia Project, which is a free food pantry here in South San Diego devoted, to helping anyone who may need a little extra assistance.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
My father often says, “Don’t make waves unless you absolutely need to. In which case, don’t stop until you’re heard.”
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
I live in Imperial Beach and enjoy spending a lot of my time here in south San Diego, including San Ysidro, where I was raised.
What I love about my Neighborhood:
I love that more than any other place I’ve lived; it feels like home.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
My ideal weekend would feature dinner and drinks in Coronado, followed by a nighttime excursion in Balboa Park, culminating in a fantastic brunch in Hillcrest.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Food, Family, Tequila.
