We were lucky to catch up with Kellie Sun recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kellie, appreciate you joining us today. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?
One of the most important lessons I learned came from working on a project that supported over 4,000 small businesses across the U.S. The experience taught me how to deeply empathize with users and design systems that meet their real needs—a skill that has been invaluable as a business owner.
The project involved creating accessible digital tools for mom-and-pop shops, many of which were run by individuals unfamiliar with technology. These were people who were experts at running their businesses but felt intimidated by the idea of transitioning to digital platforms. To build solutions that worked, I had to step into their shoes and understand their challenges—everything from learning curves to time constraints.
This required a shift in my approach. Instead of focusing solely on functionality, I prioritized simplicity and education, ensuring the tools were intuitive and that users felt confident adopting them. I learned the importance of listening, observing, and co-creating solutions with the end-users.
This experience directly shaped how I approach my role as an experience designer. When I started Erbal, I knew I wanted to create products that truly resonated with people, not just superficially but on a personal level. That meant listening to my audience, understanding their wellness goals, and designing solutions that felt approachable, sustainable, and meaningful.
The lesson I took away is this: success comes from solving real problems and meeting people where they are. It’s not enough to have a great idea; you have to ensure it’s accessible, relatable, and delivers value. Whether designing systems for small businesses or developing sustainable wellness products, this mindset has guided every decision I make.
It’s a lesson I carry with me every day, and it’s one I believe all business owners can benefit from: start with empathy, focus on real problems, and build solutions that empower others.
Kellie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a designer, innovator, and problem-solver at heart, with over a decade of experience creating impactful solutions that bridge gaps and improve lives. My journey into design began with a fascination for how thoughtful systems can empower people. With a background in Human-Computer Interaction, I’ve been fortunate to design solutions across industries, from empowering small businesses to creating wellness products that inspire healthier lifestyles.
As the Director of Design at Erbal, I lead efforts to develop sustainable wellness products that help people stay hydrated and support their health naturally. What sets Erbal apart is our commitment to sustainability. Our products are made using whole fruits and eco-conscious practices, providing a natural, caffeine-free hydration solution that’s good for both people and the planet.
Earlier in my career, I designed systems for over 4,000 small businesses, helping them modernize their operations and thrive in an increasingly digital world. Many of these were mom-and-pop shops, run by owners who were new to technology. My focus was on creating intuitive, accessible tools that empowered them to succeed, and this work remains one of my proudest achievements. It’s a great example of how design can drive real economic growth and make a difference in people’s lives.
What sets my work apart is the blend of empathy, creativity, and practicality I bring to every project. Whether it’s designing a user-friendly system or a sustainable product, I focus on solving real problems and creating value for people. I’m most proud of the impact my work has had—not just on individuals but on communities and the environment as a whole.
For anyone considering working with me or supporting Erbal, I want them to know this: everything I design comes from a place of purpose. My mission is to create solutions that are thoughtful, meaningful, and impactful. Whether it’s a small business system or a wellness product, my work is always about improving lives and leaving the world a little better than I found it.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
The core mission driving my creative journey is to create solutions that make a meaningful and lasting impact. Whether it’s through sustainable design or innovative systems, my focus is always on addressing real needs and improving lives.
I’m particularly passionate about designing for sustainability and accessibility, finding ways to make products and systems that are not only functional but also aligned with values like environmental responsibility and inclusivity. For me, design is not just about aesthetics or usability—it’s about creating something that resonates with people and contributes to the greater good.
What motivates me every day is the opportunity to bring ideas to life that inspire and empower others. I believe that the best solutions come from understanding people’s needs, embracing creativity, and staying committed to purpose-driven design. That mission is what fuels my passion and guides my journey.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
I believe my reputation within the market has been built on a foundation of empathy, innovation, and delivering meaningful results. At the core of my work is a commitment to truly understanding the needs of the people I’m designing for, whether it’s small business owners, wellness enthusiasts, or broader communities. That focus on user-centered design has consistently set my work apart.
What’s also helped is my ability to tackle complex challenges with creative and practical solutions. For instance, when designing systems for thousands of small businesses, I prioritized not only functionality but also accessibility, ensuring the tools were intuitive and empowering. Similarly, at Erbal, my commitment to sustainable and health-focused designs has resonated with people who value products that align with their personal and environmental goals.
Transparency and consistency have also been key. I believe in being open about both the challenges and the successes, which has helped build trust and credibility with my audience. By staying true to my values—whether that’s championing sustainability or advocating for inclusivity—I’ve been able to create work that people trust and believe in.
Ultimately, I think what’s helped most is delivering solutions that truly make a difference. Whether it’s improving the lives of small business owners or creating products that support wellness, my focus has always been on creating impact, and that’s something people recognize and value.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.erbalbrews.com
- Instagram: @erbalbrews
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaichangsun/
Image Credits
Qiushi Yu