We had the good fortune of connecting with Brad La Pointe and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brad, how do you think about risk?
Risk is something I try to avoid. My upbringing was risk-a-verse in multiple ways. From school, to work, to living life; my first instinct has been to weigh the pros and cons, and plan for any risky situations. Now, has that gotten me to where I am today? Sure? But not entirely. I can vividly remember the day when I realized the next step in my career was an incredible risk in itself.

During the pandemic, with the support of my husband, I was able to go back to school for UX/UI Design. Now, was it a risk knowing that I may not get a job right away? Yep. Was it a risk knowing that I might end up not enjoying this new career path? Yep. And was it also a risk knowing that I could possibly be terrible at it? Yep.

Four years later, taking all of those risks paid off. Everyday I am able to work from anywhere, have an incredible work/life balance and actually live my life.

Life is risky, but no risk, no reward.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In the world of digital design there are many career paths. I choose to stay within the confines of User Experience/User Interface Design in which I am able to dip between the creative and the analytical. Being able to flex those muscles on a daily basis has only made me strive to create better products and deliverables for my clients.

I got to where I am today from the support system around me. My husband and many friends became my biggest cheerleaders and only added confidence in moments of self-doubt and sabotage. Making the career change from hospitality to user experience, was not easy. there were countless moments in which I didn’t think I would be able to produce quality work. Let me tell you that imposter syndrome is ever present when making a change in your early thirties. But, my work ethic and task oriented brain continue to push me forward. Following trends and continuing education through viral videos and countless influencers only adds more techniques to my tool belt.

My brand has changed multiple times throughout my career, but one thing has always been constant, my dedication to improving the way the public interacts with my clients’ products or environments. I don’t plan on ever changing that. Next up on the career path is building a new creative agency alongside my sister (Director of Product) called Confounders Design Co. Together we are that confounding variable for companies and founders that drives behaviors and results.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Being a west side native, I’m partial to enjoying as much beach time as possible. Beach days are a must either at Ocean Park for volleyball or Will Rogers for a relaxing tanning day. I’d have to recommend Bodega Wine & Coffee Bar in Santa Monica for a chill and inviting vibe no matter the time of day. Primo Passo Coffee is a great place to start your day if you’re looking to enjoy what Montana Ave has to offer. And while you’re walking down Montana, might as well end up in Palisades Park. This gorgeous park overlooks the PCH and all of Santa Monica Beach. My husband and I take our dogs down to the rose garden where so many dog owners let their dogs off leash and mingle. If you’re able to swing it, stay until sunset to see the natural beauty of the California coastline.

Other than that, I’d probably try to get you to drop into my gym, West LA Athletics, for a quick crossfit workout because I’m an addict. But also, the programming and coaching is well worth it.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to give a shoutout to my incredible husband. Without his love, encouragement and belief in me, I wouldn’t have had the courage to make this amazing journey. I love you and thank you.

Website: https://www.bradlapointe.com

Instagram: @bradlapointedesign

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradlapointe/

Other: www.confounders.co for my new business venture

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