👋🏾 Hi I’m Mikhail
A strategic product designer who took the scenic route here. My journey started on the field as a D1 football player, wandered through the world as a nomadic creative, and took an unexpected pit stop in medical billing (thanks, COVID). When the world hit pause, I hit reset: dove into UX, joined a startup, and went all-in at Springboard’s bootcamp. Before I even graduated, I landed at Capital One, translating messy problems into intuitive solutions ever since.
I thrive at the intersection of product and tech, acting as translator, advocate, and occasional peacekeeper.
🦸🏾‍♂️ My Superpowers
“The definition of design is a specific answer to a specific question.”
What’s lighting me up now:
I’ve recently started “vibe coding” (ask me about it), and I’m building Clutch Stories—an app that helps fantasy league owners tell legendary tales about their leagues using AI. Side projects keep me sharp and remind me why I love this craft.
How I learn:
I’m a sponge—books, podcasts, random side quests. When things get stale, I switch it up, mix theory with hands-on, and try to invent a few techniques of my own along the way.
Advice to my younger self (and any new designer):
You’re only a designer if you live like one—and believe it. Sweat the details, even the so-called “stupid” ones. Let boredom spark creativity, not fear.
When I’m not designing, you’ll find me deep into movies, chess, or video games—studying the design of everyday things, not just software.
If you’re curious, stuck, or just want to talk shop, my inbox is always open.