Our latest ALANAmagazine Podcast, hosted by our favorite host Elahn Danee, brings a fresh and honest conversation between her and guest Krystyne Payne-McDonald. Krystyne is a product developer with a rich background in fashion and design. Throughout the podcast, she opens up about her journey from industrial design to working with prominent brands like Adidas and Lululemon, sharing how she fell in love with transforming ideas into tangible, wearable products. She talks about the joy of seeing a concept come to life and the importance of every little detail in making sure the final piece feels just right.

What stands out is Krystyne’s down-to-earth approach—she’s all about collaboration and staying curious. She reminds us that no one creates alone; it’s a team effort, much like a basketball game where the ball keeps passing around. Her experience working across different brands taught her to trust her gut but also to be open to new ideas and paths, encouraging everyone to embrace flexibility in their creative journeys.

The episode also explores exciting new frontiers, such as digital fashion and Web3, where Krystyne explains how blockchain can help designers receive the credit they deserve and connect consumers more deeply with the story behind their clothes. Additionally, she shares information about Collab Collective, her consultancy that helps smaller brands navigate the complex process of product development with the expertise of big brands.

This podcast is a warm invitation to anyone curious about fashion, design, or tech to stay open, keep learning, and enjoy the ride. It’s less about perfection and more about connection, creativity, and the joy of making something meaningful. If you want real talk and inspiration from someone who’s been there and keeps pushing forward, give ALANAmagazine Podcast #6 a watch.