$900 / month
Start free, decide later
Struggling to Get Noticed, Paid, or Taken Seriously as a Designer? Let’s Fix That.
Hey, I’m James. I help designers stop being ignored, underpaid, and overlooked by teaching them how to build real influence, advocate for their worth, and level up their careers.
Too many designers get stuck in the same frustrating loop:
❌ Sending out portfolios and getting crickets.
❌ Doing great work but still getting stuck and not advancing.
❌ Sharing ideas in meetings, only to be brushed aside.
I’ve been there—and I cracked the code. After a decade in UX, working at companies like Disney, Live Nation, Crunchyroll, and FabFitFun (plus earning a UX Master Certification from Nielsen Norman Group, the g.o.a.t. of usability), I know what actually moves the needle.
Here’s How I Can Help You Win:
💼 Get Noticed – Portfolio, resume, and interview prep that makes hiring managers pay attention.
💰 Get Paid – Learn how to negotiate like a pro for your next job or promotion and stop leaving money on the table.
📢 Get Ahead – Become a strategic partner, not just a pixel pusher. Get people to actually listen to you.
🎨 Sharpen Your Skills – Need help with UX, visual design, or research? I’ve got you.
If you’re tired of feeling stuck, let’s change that. I’ll help you build the influence, skills, and confidence to get what you deserve.
5 out of 5 stars
James is honestly worth every penny. I've learned more in the weeks with him than I have in the past year around high level design strategy. I cannot not recommend him enough. If you are looking to level up, I recommend you run (not walk) to James
Standard Plan • 1 month
5 out of 5 stars
Really enjoying the mentorship and learning a lot about the field of UX design. James is very knowledgeable and competent in his field, and has good communication skills. Highly recommend him!
Standard Plan • 5 months
5 out of 5 stars
Q: How was your experience as a mentee? - I began my UX journey during the pandemic, and it's been a challenge learning on my own. Having James as a mentor gave me valuable insights I wasn't getting from reading articles and was the extra push I needed to land a job as a UX Designer. If you're struggling in your job search, I'd highly recommend James! Q: How was James' mentorship? - You can only learn so much from reading articles and doing a boot camp. I was feeling stuck with my job search, and working with James brought me up to speed on what hiring managers are looking for in a UX Designer, and gave me the confidence I needed to reach my goal. Now I've landed a job, and I'm super happy!! Thanks, James!
Standard Plan • 1 month
Most designers focus on perfecting their craft, but here’s the truth—skill alone won’t get you ahead. You're not alone if …
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A brief introduction from James Hsu about his background, history, and why he founded Dark UX Academy. 🔗 Subscribe for …
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You tell James your goals. They see exactly what you want to work on before session one.
You meet within days. James reviews your application and books your first session, usually within a day or two.
You leave with a plan. Concrete next steps and a weekly rhythm from your very first week.
James Hsu
Head of Design at Crunchyroll
Enter your email and we'll let you know when James has open spots. You'll also get a link to manage your wishlist – no account needed.
Book a free intro call with James
Connect with James in a quick call (usually 15-20 minutes)
One-off sessions with James
One-off sessions are a great option if you're looking for specific advice on a certain topic.
Whatever doesn't fit the mold: Get a full hour with a mentor to discuss your needs. Be it help with coding something, deciding on a …
Look - the offer is simple. Pay $5k, and get up to $15k more. It really is that simple. Let me let let you in …
What's included in the trial?
Every trial is a little different–here's what James says about their trial:
We'll meet for a quick call (usually under 30 minutes) where we:
- Break the ice and introduce ourselves
- Discuss your goals and how I can support you
- Coordinate logistics like time zones, meeting frequency, and communication methods
