The basics
An explorer at heart
As a business strategist with a background in design — or a designer with a background in business — I’m an explorer at heart. I’m curious about almost everything, and approach new territory with gusto. While this has resulted in some atypical career choices (cabinetmaking) and memorable failures (trying to build a hotel in the Mojave desert), I’m able to draw on my diverse experiences to think beyond the obvious and identify opportunities that others can’t see. This means I’m at my best when tackling tough problems or building something new.
Check out highlights from my professional experience and education on LinkedIn.
How I approach problem solving
Structured thinking and systems mindset
Whether I’m building a complex production model, scaling operations globally, or designing a new product, I’m always looking for the best way to create structure out of ambiguity. I do this with the system in mind, moving seamlessly between macro and micro. With a background in operations, design, people, product, data, research, and brand, I’m able to see the big picture, work across silos, align stakeholders, and ultimately deliver meaningful, lasting solutions.
User-focused
“Who is our user?” This is the first question I ask when developing a strategic plan, facilitating a workshop with senior leaders, or revamping a website’s architecture. I believe that establishing a deep understanding of and empathy for the user is the most critical part of any design journey.
How I lead
Psychological safety
I believe that strong leaders create the right structures and support systems to help team members surface the best ideas and feel empowered to take action. What this really boils down to is creating an environment of psychological safety. I aim to build and lead teams where individuals feel safe taking risks and contributing bold ideas.
Obsessions + influences
Now for the fun stuff
Bowerbirds (I watch this video after long days at work). Vlisco textiles. Jim Walrod. Love and Rockets comics. The wild architectural visions of Bodys Isek Kingelez. Solo travel in uncomfortable places. Nasty gal Betty Davis. Muqarnas. Kerry James Marshall. Ilsa Crawford. James Turrell’s personal crater. Rock 'n' rollers Hot Snakes. Primitive Technology dude. Any and all deserts, but especially the Ténéré and Death Valley. Journalist Paul Salopek. Dogs and cats (equal opportunity fluff). That really magenta shade of bougainvillea. The Annals of Medicine. Being barefoot. Bruegel. Scrubby landscape and chapparal. IKEA Hackers. Early 80’s SoCal surf culture. Godfather of Rocksteady Alton Ellis. Marmot’s Ouray sleeping bag. Nick Cave and his Soundsuits. Epic historical fiction (Half of a Yellow Sun). Crazy stories of man vs the elements (Endurance). Stuff that’s simple yet profound (Gilead). The incredible groove of Nile Rogers. Reality TV. USAA’s customer service. Very hot weather (all the time, please). Never adhering to “safety first.”