Services
$320 / month
Start free, decide later
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1
Free 7-day trial
No charge until day 7. Cancel anytime. -
2
Ongoing calls + chat
4 × 60-min calls per month, unlimited Q&A. Replies in 24 hours or less. -
3
No lock-in
Month to month, no contract.
MentorCruise summary
Mary is Head of Product & Design at ideas42Ventures. She has 10 years of design experience, including eight years working with early-stage startups. She helps product designers and early-stage founders clarify product strategy, strengthen portfolios and job materials, and take on more responsibility.
Based on 11 verified mentee reviews
- Reviewers often praise her tailored plans, thoughtful preparation, and focus on keeping goals realistic.
- Several reviewers credit her with helping them update portfolios, apply for jobs, and grow their design careers.
- Two reviews point to her help with clarifying product problems, vision, and roadmaps.
About
I've spent 10 years working in Design with the last 8 of those years working with early-stage start-ups. I've always been a generalist of sorts, knowing a little bit about a lot in addition to deep knowledge in Product Design, User Research, and Product Strategy.
I'm a deeply feeling, loyal, nurturing – seeker and lifelong learner. I have always been creative and felt called to use that creativity to assist entrepreneurs in bringing their ideas into reality.
I spent the last 2 years at ideas42 Ventures - a studio supporting entrepreneurs of color in building new software ventures aimed at alleviating the cost of poverty. Now, I'm an advisor and consultant to early-stage founders, reach out if you're interested in consulting work.
Contrary to popular belief, I believe the professional is personal. We are all humans working with other humans doing their best at humaning. This is why in addition to my design expertise, I've spent a great deal of time learning about and honing my skills in facilitation, conflict resolution, and leadership.
I have experience hiring, mentoring, and managing a team of designers. Ready to get promoted? Do you want to take on more responsibility? Maybe you're looking for accountability in reaching your goals. Let's chat :)
Types of mentees I've worked with thus far:
- Entrepreneur looking to start a new software business
- Early-stage startup Founder looking for product strategy support
- Team of 1 Designer looking to increase UX maturity within the organization
- A generalist/corporate intrapreneur looking for support in managing up and navigating title change & salary increase
- Designer & Job Seeker straight from UX BootCamp
- Designer & Job Seeker looking for accountability in updating their portfolio
- and more!
If you're wondering if I'd be a good match for you, sign up for the free trial - I'm happy to chat, learn about your needs, and let you know what I can offer you.
What mentees say
5 out of 5 stars
Mary is a fantastic mentor! I've been working with her for months. She is very experienced and knowledgeable in her field, and is a great outside perspective to keep your goals and workflows organized and realistic. Highly recommend!
Chelsea
Standard Plan • 8 months
5 out of 5 stars
Mary is truly an amazing mentor who helped me navigate a tough period in my career. I highly recommend her! She has gone above and beyond expectations <3
Jennifer
Lite Plan • 7 months
5 out of 5 stars
During my time with her, she utilized my time greatly and reviewed my work and things before the meetings so that she has context and can answer any questions during the meeting.
Rebecca
Lite Plan • 1 month
Get to know Mary
What happens when you start
You tell Mary your goals. They see exactly what you want to work on before session one.
You meet within days. Mary 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.
