From West Philly To The World: Dion Ringgold's Blueprint For Impact

Forbes

3 days ago

Dion Ringgold
Dion Ringgold is a man who holds numerous titles. A quick scroll through his Instagram feed will prove as such, likely leaving you to deal with a range of feelings from inspiration to empowerment. Whether he's leaning into his editorial expertise as he jets across the country to interview some of the world's biggest stars or juggling professional obligations while being an active husband and father, Ringgold is a multifaceted individual through and through. As the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of InClub Magazine, a national media publication that explores the intersection of faith and culture, Ringgold continues to position himself and InClub Magazine as changemakers —a foundation that the outlet was built upon from its inception.'I started InClub Magazine because I hated the media, more specifically the way my community was portrayed,' Ringgold told ForbesBLK. 'To be completely transparent, it was the limited representation of the wider diaspora of the experiences and interests of Black Americans — I did not see myself or my interests highlighted. There were very few places that I saw, myself, a Black kid from West Philadelphia who loved art, film, and reading.'Nearly a decade in its existence, it's no secret that Ringgold's leadership and creative direction have continued to expand InClub's reach. While the cultural hub has amassed a reputation for insightful, quality content along with an ever-growing roster of A-list cover stars such as Tamika Mallory, Taylor Rooks, and more, it started much differently.'InClub was a mustard seed, an idea that the best way to change something is from the inside out. We are on a mission to show there is more to our experiences and interests and that we are not monolithic. At our inception, a book I read by Blake Mycoskie, titled Start Something That Matters, was what watered this seed, to be more than just another magazine, but a place for partnership with those doing good in the world. Now, it has evolved into a generational media outlet that gives a voice and place for those who contribute to the culture and expand its rich fullness beyond what mainstream often limits it to. We initially envisioned it as a quarterly publication targeted at college students, but it has since evolved into a monthly digital publication available in 13 global markets. And we're just getting started. We plan to be carried in more Barnes & Noble locations and Urban Outfitters across the country and launch in the U.K. and South Africa.'Dion Ringgold interviewing sports journalist Taylor Rooks.
The extension of InClub's reach isn't solely a testament to Ringgold's leadership, but also to his faith. It's something that, according to the mogul, is embedded in every facet of the platform, internally and externally.'My faith colors and informs how and why I do everything, including why we're so audacious to believe we can be as big and as culturally valuable as publications like Vogue. It also shows up in the culture we've built, from honoring everyone, regardless of their role, being accountable to one another, and being environmental architects. We set the tone and temperature wherever we are, whether it's a red carpet, on a set for a press junket, or at Starbucks. It is also partly the reason we refrain from spreading salaciousness, or negative gossip or rumors. It feels lazy and does not sit right with me.'Dion Ringgold pictured with his wife Teona Ringgold and children along with former Vice President ... More Kamala Harris and former Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff.
While InClub is just a year shy of its 10th anniversary, Ringgold's tenure as an entrepreneur surpasses that. Throughout his journey, one of the most significant lessons he has learned is the importance of creating sustainable systems that support the ecosystem of a thriving business.'What I've learned is that systems build business, and culture makes them relevant. Many intelligent individuals possess ideas and charisma; they are great hustlers. However, to be a successful business owner, you must excel at building systems and fostering a strong company culture. If your only goal is to make money, hustle away. But if your goal is to build something that will matter, something that will be part of the cultural zeitgeist, shape narratives, and spark conversations. You need the right people, the right systems, and the right culture. Hustling makes you money for that trip to the Maldives, while systems and culture build a harvest that your entire staff and their children can live off of.'Dion Ringgold and actress Blake Lively at the press junket for the 2024 film "It Ends With Us.'
As Ringgold continues to carve out his own lane within the media industry, he will continue to embrace growing and learning, something he feels is essential for every leader.
'I define leadership as the ultimate servant of the vision, direction, and safety of those he is leading. At InClub, we don't call ourselves a team; we refer to ourselves as a crew. A team can achieve success based on the efforts of one individual. In a Crew, everyone must row at the same pace and in unison to reach their destination. I have realized that people and how they feel while rowing are equally as important as the mission of getting to the other side and winning. I am a mission-driven leader, and I am still learning and growing, which is the responsibility of every leader.'