about

 

Hello there, thanks for stopping by.

 
 
 

My name is Kristina—some people call me Xtina—and I’m a design player/coach based in Seattle, WA.

In my free time I make imperfect things out of clay, practice improv, write, watercolor, experiment in the shop or go outside to smell the flowers.

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

I ventured to architecture school to fulfill my passion of math, art and film. It was all of these combined and then some.

 

Photo by Devin Berko on Unsplash

 
 
 

 
 
 
 

I packed two suitcases and made my way to Seattle. It quickly became my home and I never left except to travel.

 
 
 

 
 
 

I worked in award-winning architecture firms, where I helped shape public spaces with others.

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

Curiosity led me to UX design, where I’ve focused on shaping technology to serve a clear purpose: making life easier for people.

 
 
 

 
 
 

I brought my design and consulting skills to a woman-led studio driven by purpose, focused on creating lasting impact through social impact work.

 
 
 
 

 
 
 

Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash

 

Eager to work at the intersection of technology, business, and design, I dove into the startup world—loved every minute of it, especially the people.

 
 
 

 
 
 

Craving the challenge of a complex tool, I joined a SaaS company and leaned fully into leadership—my hardest, and most rewarding, role yet.

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

Being a creative isn’t just my career—it’s who I am at my core.

Whether I’m shaping imperfect objects from clay inspired by kintsugi, hosting conversations with fellow creatives on my podcast, mentoring others, or writing musings on Substack—I’m always looking for ways to give back to the creative community that’s given me so much.

 
 
 
 

 
 
 

People who work with me say I am:

a reliable & accountable leader, fearless champion for customers, action-oriented, results-oriented, a strong decision maker and a strong problem solver. Some notable quotes from 360:

 
 
One of the most accountable leaders on the team—when something is on her plate, you know it’s going to get done
dedicated, hardworking, and perseverant. She pushes things forward, and helps the business move forward.
 
 
fosters a culture where people feel challenged but supported, ensuring they develop and grow under her leadership.
a strong and reliable partner on our projects. I trust her judgement, and she consistently provides thoughtful feedback early and often
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

✉️ Send me a message kmrakestraw[at]gmail.com
You can find me on Linked in, Spotify, Substack, Medium, ADPList or Instagram

 
 

have a good day

 

home | podcast | 100 day | about