Season 2, Episode 2

    Growing Your Passion From Page to Product

    Kristin Leeson3/12/20201:48:54

    Kristin Leeson is a Graphic Designer and Embroidery Specialist in the fashion industry, growing her passion from elementary school all the way through to her Associate of Science in Fashion. She is in the process of starting her brand by building out portfolios and merch designs from embroidered shirts to stickers sharing her passion for design and creative growth.

    graphic-design
    fashion
    embroidery
    creative-process
    merchandising
    entrepreneurship

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    Show Notes

    • •The journey of turning a lifelong passion for sewing and design into a professional career.
    • •Practical advice on workflow, process organization, and the best software for designers.
    • •Strategies for building multiple portfolios to showcase different aspects of your brand.
    • •A deep dive into merchandising: how to bring a product from concept to reality.
    • •Overcoming self-doubt and navigating the unique mindset of a creative professional.
    • •The importance of continuous learning and creative growth in the fashion industry.

    About Kristin Leeson

    Kristin Leeson is a multi-talented Graphic Designer and Embroidery Specialist with a deep-rooted passion for fashion and design. With a formal education in Fashion, she combines technical skill with creative vision to build her own brand, creating everything from intricate embroidered apparel to compelling sticker designs. Kristin is dedicated to sharing her journey of creative growth and empowering other artists to turn their passions into products.

    Host Commentary

    ZADAN's Commentary: Kristin's story is the embodiment of what we're building at ZATHENA VENTURES. It's about taking a raw passion—something you've loved since you were a kid—and having the discipline and vision to turn it into a real, viable product and brand. Her journey is so relatable for so many creatives in our audience. What I found most valuable in our conversation was the focus on process. It's one thing to have a great idea, but Kristin breaks down the actual steps: organizing your workflow, using the right tools, building portfolios. This is the practical, actionable advice that can make all the difference for someone starting out. Her perspective on self-doubt is also crucial. Every creative person faces it, and hearing how she navigates that while still pushing forward is incredibly motivating. This episode is a perfect blend of inspiration and a practical roadmap for any artist who wants to see their designs come to life.

    Full Transcript

    This episode is a masterclass in turning creative passion into a tangible business. ZADAN sits down with Kristin Leeson, a talented Graphic Designer and Embroidery Specialist, to trace her journey from sewing in elementary school to building her own brand in the competitive fashion industry. Kristin provides a wealth of practical knowledge for any aspiring creative entrepreneur. The conversation covers essential topics like organizing your workflow, choosing the right digital tools to bring ideas to life, and the strategic importance of creating specialized portfolios. They also get into the nitty-gritty of merchandising, exploring how to transform a design into a product that connects with customers. Beyond the technical aspects, the discussion also touches on the mindset required for creative success, including how to combat self-doubt and embrace the unique way creatives see the world. This is an inspiring and informative episode for anyone looking to bridge the gap between their art and commerce.

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