River City Six – Leah Richards
Meet Leah Richards, marketing coordinator at Echo Systems (www.echosystemsmidwest.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
Echo Systems offers a wide range of technology solutions applicable to commercial and residential spaces. We offer the best in quality, function, and service in the areas of lighting control, audio video solutions, digital signage, motorized shading options, security systems, private theater design and installation.
How did you get started in the business?
My background is in marketing, advertising, and sales. I previously worked as a partner of Echo Systems on the marketing side and, through that relationship, the opportunity to work directly for the company came about.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
I am challenged by understanding consumer behavior patterns and the shifts that take place naturally. I think it’s ongoing for me, not just one big instance. I strive to better analyze data and use what I learn to grow our business.
Tell us a little about your family.
I’ve been happily married for three years. We have a one year old son named Julian and a Newfoundland Lab named Jameson.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
The day my son was born. It taught me the real meaning of selflessness and it changed my view on what it means to be productive.
Who inspires you?
My mother inspires me in many ways, but most importantly by her positive attitude. She reminds me that attitude is something we always have control of no matter the circumstance.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Watching Shark Tank one night, I liked the quote one of the hosts shared: “Never cry for money because it never cries for you.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Thoughtful.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I love to cook.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I enjoy singing and music in general, but would absolutely love to learn how to play the stand up bass.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Fashion design.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Girls Inc. is special to me. I’ve been a mentor for three years to the same girl and have watched her grow into a strong, smart, and confident young woman. I think it’s very important to be a mentor because of the influence I’ve had from other women who’ve mentored me as a young adult.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
One of my all time favorites is The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America Book by Erik Larson
What is your favorite movie?
Across the Universe.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Cunningham’s Pub and Grill… hands down.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Canadian comedian John Candy.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 334-4900 Ext. 12920; Email: lrichards@echosystemsmidwest.com; Website: www.echosystemsmidwest.com.