Meet Armando J Esparza Jr
Founder and CEO
Armando J Esparza Jr is a seasoned leader with over a decade of management experience, deeply committed to empowering youth and fostering the next generation's growth. His career commenced at Costco, where he advanced from a cart pusher at 18 to Senior Manager by 26, leading at seven Bay Area locations during his tenure. Transitioning to Amazon in 2020, Armando has spent the past three years enhancing vendor profitability as a Senior Customer Success Manager II, strategically advising first-party vendors with annual revenues ranging from $30M to $480M. Notably, he launched development services at both Costco and Amazon that resulted in over 20 promotions for entry-level employees within a year, reflecting his dedication to nurturing talent.
Raised in San Jose, California, Armando's entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. At seven, he began earning by collecting recyclables in East San Jose (Story & King), maintained a tab at the local Pink Elephant Market at eight, and secured his first job at 16 at Race Street Seafood Kitchen in West San Jose. His progression from entry-level roles to senior management underscores his belief in hard work and mentorship.
Experiences such as earning MVP and Senior All-Star honors while playing high school football, coaching the sport, and serving as after-school staff at John Muir Middle School for multiple years have further solidified his commitment to youth development. Influenced by a resilient mother and supportive father, Armando learned the significance of the environment in building confidence—a principle central to Money Sprouts Youth Empowerment.
Seeking new horizons, Armando moved from San Jose to San Diego to pursue higher education in 2018. This transition not only broadened his perspectives but also deepened his understanding of how changing environments can foster personal growth. In 2020, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from San Diego State University, further equipping him with the knowledge and skills to drive positive change.
In 2025, recognizing a gap in practical education, Armando founded Money Sprouts Youth Empowerment, LLC. He observed that schools often overlook essential life skills like financial literacy, leaving many vulnerable to financial pitfalls. Inspired by his mother's perseverance and his passion for helping others, Armando aims to equip youth with the financial and emotional tools necessary for success. The What You Wish Survey highlighted that 71.70% of caregivers prioritize financial literacy, and 66.04% value emotional well-being. This insight led Money Sprouts to offer affordable $10 seminars, accommodating the 66% of caregivers budgeting $10 or less, ensuring accessibility for all.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Armando's commitment to fitness has profoundly influenced his life. Engaging in strength training and conditioning has instilled in him the values of commitment, consistency, and execution. These principles enhance physical health and drive success in business and financial literacy. The discipline from his fitness journey reinforces his advocacy for long-term goal setting and perseverance—values integral to Money Sprouts' mission.
The Vision for the Future
Armando envisions Money Sprouts Youth Empowerment as a transformative force, aiming to impact 10,000 youth by 2030 and establish itself as a household name in youth education. Plans include expanding beyond financial literacy into areas like fitness, motivation, and goal-setting, partnering with national organizations to amplify impact. The goal is to empower youth to achieve financial independence and emotional resilience, providing caregivers with confidence in their youths futures. With a B.S. in Business Administration from San Diego State University and extensive leadership experience at Amazon and Costco, Armando is well-equipped to lead Money Sprouts toward realizing this vision, benefiting both youth and their caregivers.
Empower Your Youth’s Future
Equip your youth with essential financial literacy and emotional well-being skills through Money Sprouts Youth Empowerment’s affordable, introductory services (4) designed with both youth and caregivers in mind.
Virtual Group Seminars (Max 30 Attendees)
Interactive, remote group sessions that introduce foundational financial concepts for youth. Priced at just $10 per attendee, these seminars offer a cost-effective way to start your youth's financial education.
Youth One-on-One Coaching
Personalized financial education tailored to your youth’s goals and needs. Introductory sessions are available for $25, with follow-up sessions offered at $30 to ensure continuous growth.
Caregiver Education One-on-One Sessions
Empower caregivers with the knowledge and tools to support their youth’s financial journey. Introductory sessions are available for $25, with follow-up sessions priced at $30.
Family Package
A comprehensive bundle that combines one-on-one coaching for both youth and caregivers to foster family-wide financial literacy. This package is available for just $40 (a $10 savings compared to individual sessions).