Stride Spotlight: Meet Lakshmi—our Product Designer and professional violinist
Stride empowers self-employed people to build lives they love. This week, we chatted with Lakshmi, one of our Product Designers, about her interest in consumer behavior, her appreciation for other Striders, and her stellar illustration skills.
Can you introduce yourself and your position?
I'm Lakshmi, and I'm a Product Designer here at Stride.
Do you have any interesting hobbies that folks would be surprised to know?
Well, I was a professional violinist, singer, and theatre actor back home in Singapore. Like...people actually paid money to watch me perform.
Also, in my free time, I illustrate comics about psychology.
What sparked your interest in design?
I used to struggle with obesity when I was in high school. My doctor told me that I was prediabetic and that I should come to terms with diabetes being a part of my life. Well, I wasn’t going to take that sitting down. I worked hard to change my habits, lost 70 pounds, and kicked prediabetes in the butt.
During this time, I realized how hard it was to change behaviors and the power that tech apps have in helping people reach their goals. I wanted to design products that would help people like me improve their quality of life by making even the smallest changes to a routine.
What makes you excited to get up and come to work every morning?
The best part of coming into work everyday are the amazing people at Stride. Striders work hard, play hard and even make me excited to roll out of bed on a Monday morning.
Also, THE DOGS. I love the dogs. My idea of heaven is a big park full of all the Stride dogs.
Why do you think the work you do is so important?
Working independently can be extremely scary. I’ve talked to many Stride members who say they feel alone in their journey. Stride serves as their support system in an uncertain world. Providing our members with peace of mind is why I find the work here so important.
Who's your favorite office dog?
I like Gussie the best! I guess I'm a little biased since I'm his owner. But he's a goofy, happy-go-lucky guy, and I don’t know what I'd do without him!
