In this episode, I sit down with @AlienaCai , a designer-turned-entrepreneur whose inspiring journey offers valuable insights for anyone looking to redefine their career. Starting as a UX designer at eBay, Aliena’s path took a bold turn when her YouTube content, now featured in Forbes and major universities, gained traction and revealed a gap in design education.
We discuss everything from the lessons she learned after being rejected by Google (and why it turned out to be the best thing for her), to building a six-figure design business and bridging the gap between traditional education and real-world skills. Aliena also shares practical tips on personal branding, entrepreneurship, and navigating the challenges of running a business. Whether you’re a designer, entrepreneur, or just curious about her incredible story, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.
Tune in to learn:
⭐️ Why rejection can lead to opportunity.
⭐️ How to build a thriving personal brand.
⭐️ The hard truths and rewards of entrepreneurship.
Get ready to be inspired!
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Mentioned in the show:
👉 Fast Track UX: https://fasttrackux.com/. (use code readysetux for 20% off)
👉 Aliena's Youtube Channel: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCdImQC-ytxsJss3d1cqdOzA
👉 Aliena Design Studio: https://www.alienadesign.studio/
👉 Forbes feature: https://www.forbes.com.au/brand-voice/uncategorized/fast-track-to-six-figures-👉 aliena-cais-blueprint-for-aspiring-ux-designers
📚 Million Dollar Weekend by Noah Kagan: https://noahkagan.com/mdwbook/
📚 Oversubscribed by Daniel Priestly: https://danielpriestley.com/oversubscribed-book/
📚 The Art and Business of Online Writing: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Business-Online-Writing-Capturing/dp/0998203491
🔗 Connect with Ran
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranliudesign/
ADP profile: https://adplist.org/mentors/ran-liu - Currently mentorship slots open!
🔗 Connect with Aliena
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlienaCai
Fast Track UX: https://fasttrackux.com/. (use code readysetux for 20% off)
Instagram: instagram.com/thealienacai
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/alienacai
TikTok: tiktok.com/@thealienacai
X/Twitter: twitter.com/AlienaCai
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00:00 Introduction
01:33 Journey to Entrepreneurship
04:03 Challenges and Realizations in Entrepreneurship
08:15 The Failed Google Interview
12:41 Starting the YouTube Channel
15:00 Creating FastTrackUX and Identifying Gaps
19:38 Innovative Teaching Methods
23:06 Combining UX Design and Business Skills
24:30 Navigating the Challenges of Entrepreneurship
25:55 The Art of Outsourcing
26:50 Balancing Creativity and Business
28:03 Transitioning from Designer to Manager
29:59 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
35:35 Building a Personal Brand
39:43 Lightning Round
42:30 Future Plans and Final Thoughts