In the last decade, entrepreneurship has grown exponentially. WordSpark founder and owner River Ingham proudly joined their ranks in 2020 with the launch of their digital marketing consultancy.

WHAT WAS YOUR DREAM JOB AS A KID?

I wanted to be a computer programmer. I remember taking a STEM class in high school and I spent hours creating a custom “yes/no” form with HTML code. I loved every minute! Blending my passion for tech and writing led me to where I am now.

WHAT DID YOU PURSUE IN COLLEGE?

I started out as a sociology major. I was fascinated by social theory and psychology. Later on, I realized I wanted to translate some of what I learned to communicate with others in the business space and switched to public relations, the undergraduate degree I ultimately graduated with. I recently decided to pursue a master’s in communication and complete my program this May.

TALK ABOUT YOUR PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY. WHAT STANDS OUT?

I’ve worked on marketing and communications initiatives for both grassroots and national organizations; on small and large cross-functional teams. The complex projects I’ve worked on have required quick thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Being presented with a challenge is motivating for me. When I look back on the past decade of my career, I’m grateful to have had a hand in several campaigns that continue to draw interest and thrive beyond the foundational elements I contributed to.

WHAT LED YOU TO WANT TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I’m a big-picture thinker. Someone who can see the vision and then break down that idea into small, actionable pieces. I decided I wanted to devote more of my time to connecting one-to-one with organizations focused on social impact that are executing exciting new workstreams and could benefit from a strategic approach and additional capacity.

WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION?

I find inspiration through the things that bring me joy. Travel, art, cooking, books, documentaries, and nature, for example. I run my own lifestyle blog where I share stories about the way I explore the world around me to connect with others through shared interests and experiences.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT LIVING ON THE EAST COAST?

Being near the ocean and water! The Arizona desert has a beauty all its own, but ponds, beaches and lakes are so peaceful. A friend took me to Walden Pond the summer I moved to the area, and I was awestruck!

DO YOU HAVE A ROLE MODEL?

Several. What they all share is an unwavering commitment to supporting the success of those around them. I’ve had so many personal and professional mentors who have provided wisdom and encouragement throughout the years. I hope to do the same for others.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER LEADERS?

Never doubt your talents. Have confidence that your journey will lead you to great things. We all have something meaningful to contribute to the world.

WordSpark Digital Consulting is ready to connect with social impact clients to execute an effective digital marketing strategy and deepen their connection with relevant audiences and drive leads. Interested in collaborating? Let’s connect.

Q&A: Get to Know WordSpark's Founder and Owner