Ximena Vengoechea

Ximena Vengoechea is a user researcher, writer, and illustrator who has established herself as an expert in personal and professional development.124 She is the author of multiple notable books, including Listen Like You Mean It: Reclaiming the Lost Art of True Connection and Rest Easy: Discover Calm and Abundance through the Radical Power of Rest.23

Professional Background

Vengoechea previously worked as a user researcher and manager at prominent tech companies like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Pinterest.124 Currently, she works as a self-employed professional, advising startups and executives on user research and executive communication.13

Writing and Speaking

Her writing has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Washington Post, Newsweek, Inc., Fast Company, and Harvard Business Review.12 She is known for her keynote speaking on topics including:

• Empathetic and inclusive listening
• Navigating difficult conversations
• Preventing burnout
• The power of rest

Notable Works

• Books:
  • Listen Like You Mean It (2021 Next Big Idea Club finalist)
  • Rest Easy (named one of BookRiot's Best Books of 2023)
  • The Life Audit: A Step-By-Step Guide to Discovering Your Goals

She also writes a newsletter called Letters from Ximena about staying curious, creative, and living well.2 Vengoechea currently resides in San Francisco with her family.4