Challenge
In 2017, I set out to build my first solo venture — a design agency that could deliver world-class UX leadership while putting people before pixels. The challenge was to grow from a new studio into a trusted partner for startups and enterprises, while maintaining culture, balance, and reputation in a competitive market.
Objective
To create a design firm that was as invested in its people as it was in its clients. We aimed to deliver outstanding UX and strategy, build a culture that supported growth and creativity, and prove that an agency built on empathy and collaboration could scale successfully.
Outcome
You X Ventures combined design leadership, facilitation, and hands-on product work for over 70 organizations across corporate, startup, and venture capital ecosystems. We ran workshops, launched community initiatives like Unicorn Dojo and Kids X Tech, and fostered a team culture where people thrived personally and professionally. By 2021, the agency had scaled to over $1M ARR while staying true to its motto: People > Pixels.
Outcome
You X Ventures combined design leadership, facilitation, and hands-on product work for over 70 organizations across corporate, startup, and venture capital ecosystems. We ran workshops, launched community initiatives like Unicorn Dojo and Kids X Tech, and fostered a team culture where people thrived personally and professionally. By 2021, the agency had scaled to over $1M ARR while staying true to its motto: People > Pixels.
Impact
In 2021, You X Ventures was acquired by our final client, LEON Health, a SaaS platform for team performance and burnout prevention. I joined LEON as Head of Product for one year to ensure a smooth transition and lasting success. Alumni of You X have since gone on to become entrepreneurs, design leaders, and innovators in technology and venture capital. The relationships, culture, and frameworks we created continue to shape the design community today.
Additional Case Studies
Brand Positioning for a Crypto Bank
BlockBank had a strategic imperartive to rebrand and establish a stronger brand for it's intitutional banking opportunities. The company was looking for a unified market position that could communicate trust and security while still supporting a modern consumer experience.
Reimagining Social Impact Collaboration
Catalist, founded by Vincent Arena, set out with an ambitious mission: to help social impact organizations collaborate more effectively, reduce inefficiencies, and share resources, knowledge, and access in order to accelerate meaningful ventures. Despite a strong vision, the initial MVP struggled to deliver the dynamic and interactive experience needed to bring this mission to life.
Developing AI Powered Budgeting
Finroy, founded by Bill Murphy—well known in Canadian FinTech for scaling and exiting Wagepoint—had spent two years developing a product for accountants and small business owners but struggled to find product-market fit or secure investment. Recognizing the need for a new direction, Murphy engaged me to evaluate the product, provide a clear strategy, and help position the company for its next phase.