Hello there, thanks for stopping by.
My name is Kristina—some people call me Xtina—and I’m a design leader 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.
My why, what, how & where
My why
To help people do their best creative work.
My what
Foster environments and frameworks that support clarity, flow, and momentum.
My how
Through deep listening, connecting the dots, servant leadership, and storytelling that unlocks possibility.
My where
In spaces that fuel curiosity and ambition—and invite others to bring their full selves.
My leadership values
People First
People need to feel seen, heard, and part of something bigger than themselves.
Vulnerability wins
Vulnerability is the bridge to trust. It invites honesty and makes room for connection.
Yes and
Great ideas rarely come alone. Collaboration isn’t a luxury—it’s the engine.
Service
Leadership isn’t a pedestal. It’s a role of service—to clear paths, amplify strengths, and support people.
A brief journey about me
I was raised by the ocean. It taught me that everything is connected and the best tactics are to let things pass through.
Photo by Ivana Cajina on Unsplash
Photo by Noom Peerapong on Unsplash
I started dabbling in painting and filmmaking at a young age. It taught me the power that visuals and stories have over humanity. It was the foundation of my thirst for making.
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
Photo by Briana Tozour 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.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Photo by Robin Glauser on Unsplash
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 Jason Goodman on Unsplash
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.
Photo by Karine Avetisyan on Unsplash
Photo by Taylor Heery on Unsplash
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 emerging talent, or writing musings on Substack—I’m always looking for ways to give back to the creative community that’s given me so much.
I’ve enjoyed mentoring the design community for the past 4 years, transforming obstacles I have overcome into advice for others. 🪴
Most common advice I’ve given:
Lead with the big picture, then connect the dots.
Explain your why—and how it shaped your next move.
Show, don’t just tell.
Bold what matters.
If you can dream it, break it down and build it.
Own your career—it’s yours to shape.
Range of topics I’ve mentored on:
Storytelling & reframing
Articulating design decisions
Stakeholder management
Leveraging smart brevity
Career growth & transitions
Advocating for a promotion
Job search & interviewing
“Kristina is hands down the best mentor I’ve ever met. Her storytelling skills and advice on my portfolio blew me away. She has an incredible knack for making narratives more human and engaging. ”
“Kristina is an outstanding leader who truly wants to help people make career decisions that are not easy. She herself has transitioned careers before and offers a perspective that many can relate to. ”
“I had a great session with Kristina. I really appreciate the thoughtful feedback she provided me. I learned a lot from her about how data are applied to the design process. ”
“She gave me a handful of actionable feedback on the early version of my portfolio. After addressing most of her points, my chance of getting interviews gets noticeably higher.”
I enjoy reading about design, leadership and mindfulness.
I am currently reading The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle and Why Design Is Hard by Scott Berkun & Bryan Zug and The Art of Communicating by Thich Nhat Hanh.
My favorite leadership books are: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown, Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek, How to Know a Person by David Brooks, Good to Great by Jim Collins, Drive by Daniel H. Pink.
My favorite design books are: Articulating Design Decisions by Tom Greever, Design is Storytelling by Ellen Lupton, Just Enough Research by Erika Hall & Better Onboarding by Krystal Higgins.
My favorite mindfulness books are: How to do Nothing by Jenny Odell and Meditation for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman.
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”