I make the web more beautiful
Hey there, I’m Mike. 👋 For over 20 years, I’ve designed delightful experiences and crafted intuitive software that make the web a more enjoyable place to be. Right now, I’m making Ollie and partnering with companies to bring top-shelf design to their products, apps, and services.
A high-powered mutant of some kind never even considered for mass production. Too weird to live, and too rare to die.
That’s me, just chillin’ in my design studio here in the Midwest, USA. Probably thinking about coffee or outer space.
An introduction
I’ve spent 20+ years designing and building software products that thousands of creators depend on to build their businesses. Now, I’m helping others do the same.
I thrive on building products that solve real problems with meticulous attention to detail and user experience. This thoughtful approach has led to multiple acquisitions, with products scaling from zero to seven-figure revenue.
Whether leading engineering teams or crafting user experiences that drive growth, I bring a rare blend of product vision, vibrant aesthetic, and technical expertise to every project.
Today, I’m focused on high-impact design partnerships while also building my own products and sharing knowledge through books and videos. I work with founders who need their products to stand out in crowded markets.
Using design as a strategic growth tool, I can help you cut through the noise and convert your target audience.
Sound like something you need? Let’s talk.
Timeline of recent events
2024
Ollie + Ollie Pro
Launched Ollie, a design library and toolkit for WordPress. 5k+ users and growing every day.
2022
Liftoff Course
Wrote my first book, Liftoff, teaching creators how to turn their expertise into digital products.
2018
Principal Engineer
Led an engineering team through shipping multiple innovative products and tools.
2016
Atomic Blocks
A design product for the WordPress site editor. Achieved light-speed growth. Acquired in 2018.
2012
Array
A suite of 20+ beautifully-crafted WordPress themes. Acquired in 2018.
Now let’s talk about design
Recent Work
My work has been used and trusted by big ol’ companies like Dropbox, Mozilla, Facebook, TEDTalks, and more.
I love designing and building my own software products, but I also love helping startups and established companies solve their toughest design challenges and bring their boldest ideas to life.
Here’s the thing though—I don’t just design. I code. I strategize. I research. I lead. I’ve spent two decades wearing dozens of hats, which means I know exactly how design, development, and product strategy need to jive together to create something that actually works and delivers results.
I take on select partnerships where I can make a real, measurable impact, working closely with teams to not just deliver beautiful design, but to build design systems and cultures that keep delivering great experiences long after our engagement ends.
Looking for a designer or design consultant to bring your next big design project to life? Check out my work and let’s chat!
Interviews, Podcasts, Etc.
There’s more, if you’re interested…
Some of my work has been recognized with awards in design and innovation. I just thought I’d mention it.
1st Place – Bluehost Creator Awards 2024
My work on Ollie for WordPress won 1st place in the Bluehost Creator Awards.
1st Place – Bluehost Creator Awards 2023
My work on the Liftoff Creator Course won 1st place in the Bluehost Creator Awards.
Finalist – Automattic Design Awards
My work on the Atomic Blocks plugin for WordPress won a finalist prize for design and innovation.