Truth Telling From The Trenches With InSpark Founder Tracey Warren

I believe community is the key to success in life and business. That is why I do what I do. As a community creator and connector, InSpark Coworking was exactly the right business for me to open! Every day, I get to connect with and support women in business – hands on! I didn’t know when I started, but this is exactly what I was born to do!

I am a rabid supporter and loving truthteller. And, I am so excited to cheer you on when you are successful, and encourage you when you need a gentle nudge.

Most days, you will likely find me quoting some random movie line or breaking into song based on our conversation – or laughing out loud at something I found funny!

Ultimately, I believe we are better together, and coworking is just one part of that!

Where is your business located?

Lynnwood, WA

Where did the idea for your business come from?

Honestly, I spoke a desire to open a coworking space out loud at an event. When I did, it surprised me for sure.

But, then I knew I had to do it!

What is the first thing you do in the morning?

I am following the Mel Robbins 5,4,3,2,1 Blast off out of bed at my first alarm. Then, I spend time reading (with a cup of coffee in hand) something that will start my day off right.

I am still actively honing my morning routine and am open to ideas!

What does your work day look like and how do you maximize your productivity?

I maximize productivity first and foremost by coworking. That makes all the difference for me.

Every day looks very different for me, and am refining that as well.

One thing is sure - every day includes marketing, events, and connecting with members online and off.

How do you bring your great business ideas to the world to serve your clients?

I am an extrovert, so I talk through my ideas with my "clients" who are actually the members of InSpark. They can quickly and easily help me know which ones are the good ones and also the ones I might not pursue!

What is one trend in business that excites you?

I am excited that I am at the forefront of the trend towards more coworking! We are just in the beginning!

What is one strategy that helped you grow your business?

Nurturing my network. I know 100% the time and effort I've invested in building relationships is and will continue to be the reason for any success I have in my business.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

I feel like I am in the middle of what some might consider a failure, but I know is a great lesson for moving forward and to success.

I had no idea before I opened that when I said coworking to people I met at networking events in this area would have NO idea what I was referring to.

As a result, my membership has grown slower than I needed it to. But, it has taught me so much! I am much better at sharing what it is we do here and I've gotten crystal clear about who my target is!

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to this community?

You have two kinds of activities as a business owner - those that produce income and those that don't. Focus on the income production and allows others to support you with the other tasks!

What is the best $100 you have recently spent? on What? Why?

I bought lockers for my coworking space. They will be a membership perk for full timers and I can rent them out monthly to part time members! Win/Win!!

What is one piece of software or app that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

I live and breathe by my google calendar!

What is the best business book you have read? Why?

Five Second Rule by Mel Robbins is rocking my world right now...simple steps to courage. It's exactly what I need to hear and be reminded of. Baby steps to bold and courageous actions will be what brings me to amazing success!

What is your favorite quote?

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you." Marianne Williamson

Who inspires you in business and why?

I am inspired by Julie Fry. She has a huge heart and is always willing to lend a helping hand.

But, it's so much more than that.

She is growing a large women's networking organization and finds a way to stay hungry and humble. It's refreshing!

What are your thoughts on work-life balance?

I used to think it was a myth. Then, I opened my coworking space. What I have come to understand is more about creating boundaries that balance. I leave my laptop at the office every weeknight and don't work over the weekends typically. That allows me to be present for myself and my family AND allows me to show up more effectively AT the office!

What are the 3 business lessons you’ve learned so far?

1. Be you unapologetically - When you start conforming to how the world wants you to be...it gets mucky.

2. It's ok to have a crappy day. I used to beat myself up for having a bad day. (Like I have too much to do to have a bad day.) But, now I give myself permission and grace to just realize it's not going to happen today and I will move forward again tomorrow.

3. Ask for help! (I'm still learning this one!)

What is your workspace like?

I work at my coworking space. It's warm, light and inviting and filled with an amazing community of people!

Last thing you do at the end of your work day?

Organize for the following day and then turn off the lights and lock the doors!

What is the one thing you can't leave home without?

My cell phone and a notebook.

What superpower would you love to have to use for good?

Teleportation.

I believe that would be good for everyone.

No traffic stress, everyone would be on time, better for the environment.

Number of unread emails right now?