What do Gloria Vanderbilt jeans, AI-powered design, and 3D denim all have in common? They are at the forefront of fashion’s evolution—led by today’s guest, Kirsten Lee, Chief Marketing Officer of One Jeanswear Group.

In this episode of (un)conversations, Dr. Alison sits down with Kirsten to explore what it means to lead with both tech and soul. From breaking away from the "written path" of medicine to becoming a Korean American trailblazer at Parsons School of Design, Kirsten shares how she balances innate creative passion with the sharp business acumen required to lead a global brand.

Key Takeaways

• The (Un)written Path: Creating your own lane when the traditional roadmap doesn't fit.

• Unfiltered Leadership: The power of owning your voice and leading with transparency.

• The Future of Denim: How AI and 3D design are revolutionizing the industry.

• Unlearning to Win: Why letting go of "perfection" makes you a more effective leader.

Chapter Guide

00:00 – Who Is Kirsten Lee?

01:54 – The (UN)word Effect

03:12 – Cultural Identity: Growing up Korean-American in Fashion

04:44 – Choosing an (Un)written Path: Science vs. Design

07:29 – Overcoming Early Career Challenges

14:10 – Career Pivots: Reinvention & Growth

21:05 – Authentic Leadership & Unfiltered Communication

28:22 – The Future: AI-Powered Design & 3D Denim Tech

35:10 – Advice for Founders: Balancing Art & Strategy

42:30 – Sustainable Success: Avoiding Burnout

50:15 – Final Leadership Lessons52:38 – Ask Dr. Alison

55:45 – Wrap Up

Connect with the (un)movement

🌐 Website: unconventionllc.com

📸 Instagram: @dralisonschmidt | @unconversationspodcast

💼 LinkedIn: Dr. Alison Schmidt

📺 YouTube: Subscribe Here

Connect with Kirsten Lee

💼 LinkedIn: Kirsten Lee

Special thank you to DJ Doug Jackson for the official (un)conversations theme song @ https://soundcloud.com/dougjackson

#KirstenLee #OneJeanswearGroup #Leadership #FashionInnovation #AI #3DDenim #WomenInLeadership #CareerPivot #ExecutiveCoaching