Michelle Lee-Schmidt

Michelle Lee-Schmidt is a seasoned professional with a strong background in user research, design, and product management. She has a passion for creating innovative products, services, and experiences by understanding user needs and leveraging design principles.

With a Master's degree in Engineering and Product Design, along with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, Michelle has a solid academic foundation to support her professional endeavors.

Michelle has held various key positions in renowned organizations, including Managing Director of Play Lab at IDEO and Senior Portfolio Director for Design for Play at IDEO. She has also been a First Mover Fellow at the Aspen Institute Business & Society Program.

Having co-founded an internet start-up and led product and customer experience initiatives in Agile environments, Michelle excels in dynamic and fast-paced settings. She values projects that involve comprehensive user research to uncover valuable insights and opportunities for design.

Michelle is a strong advocate for incorporating play into design processes to enhance engagement, relationships, and overall user experience. She seeks to bring joy and meaning to every project she undertakes, utilizing her expertise to create impactful solutions.

Her diverse professional background includes roles such as Head of Customer Experience and Product Lead at ThredUp, Co-Founder and Head of Product at ShopWell, and Products Editor at Pregnancy Magazine. Michelle has also contributed her skills as a lecturer at Stanford University and held positions at various organizations, showcasing her well-rounded experience in the industry.