We were lucky to catch up with Kristin Wyza recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kristin, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you tell us a story about a time you failed?

After dedicating nearly 19 years to the Walt Disney Company, I encountered an unexpected twist in 2020 when my position was eliminated during the peak of Covid. Initially challenging, it soon revealed itself as an opportunity for a new journey. In response, I immersed myself in entrepreneurship, launching a luxury mobile spray tanning business. This venture not only allowed me to explore business ownership but also sparked my interest in web design.

While creating my website for the spray tanning business, I discovered a newfound passion for web design. The intricacies of establishing an online presence fascinated me, and soon inquiries for web design began pouring in. As demand grew, I realized this wasn’t just a side venture—it was a calling.

What began as a response to a career challenge blossomed into a thriving dual business. Excelling in both the luxury spray tanning industry and web design, I faced a tough decision. Ultimately, the web design business, fueled by a passion from my Disney days, took center stage. Closing the spray tanning business marked a significant shift, solidifying KW Media Design as more than a response to adversity—it became a triumph of resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, I relocated to Florida in 2002, driven by the aspiration to work at the “most magical place on earth.” After being in what I considered a dream role and transitioning from having Mickey Mouse as my “boss” to navigating mouse clicks as an entrepreneur, I now lead KW Media Design. As the Founder and Executive Director, our primary expertise lies in developing fully customized Squarespace websites. We specialize in creating digital spaces that precisely align with our clients’ brand and business requirements.

At KW Media Design, our emphasis is on enhancing online presence, addressing the challenge of constructing a credible, user-friendly, and visually captivating website. In addition to our core service of Squarespace website design, we extend our capabilities to graphic design, branding, logo creation, copywriting, and social media management. Our commitment is to provide tailored solutions that elevate our clients’ digital presence and effectively meet their unique needs.

What distinguishes KW Media Design is our collective Disney background, infusing each project with a unique blend of creativity, excellence, and enchantment. We’re not just about websites; we’re about cultivating relationships. Our commitment to open and timely communication, personalized consultations, and a focus on long-term partnerships sets us apart.

I take pride in the journey of KW Media Design, navigating the challenges of transitioning from a corporate position to entrepreneurship. The success of my web design business, ignited by the passion to dream big and believe sparked during my Disney days, stands as a testament to resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit.

To potential clients, followers, and fans, know that at KW Media Design, we’re not just crafting websites; we’re crafting digital experiences. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to enhance your online presence or an entrepreneur seeking a digital transformation, KW Media Design is here to guide you through the entire design process. Welcome to a world where every pixel carries the spirit of creativity, expertise, and a touch of enchantment.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

My journey has been a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, and one defining chapter unfolded in my early 20s. With a heart set on working for Disney, I found myself facing an unexpected challenge. The aftermath of September 11th cast a hiring freeze across the company. Undeterred, I packed up my life in Pittsburgh, PA, and moved to Florida just four months after 9/11, driven by a dream and an unwavering spirit. Picture this – a young woman in her early 20s, with no job, alone in a new state, residing in an apartment with nothing but an air mattress and two plastic patio chairs. I was able to find a temporary job at a car dealership while weathering the storm of uncertainty until the hiring freeze lifted.

Eventually, the Disney dream materialized as I secured a sales position 6 months after moving to Florida. It was a testament to perseverance, proving that even in the face of adversity, dreams could endure.

Fast forward to when I was 33 years old, where life threw another curveball – a diagnosis of colon cancer. Despite the gravity of the situation, I felt a deep-seated certainty that I would be okay. The journey that followed was arduous, with over a year of surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation. Yet, through it all, the flame of resilience burned bright, illuminating a path forward.

Losing my position with Disney marked another twist in my journey, but it was from this point that the seeds of a thriving web design business were planted. The transition from a corporate giant to the entrepreneurial world became a testament to adaptability and resilience. From the challenges of a hiring freeze to battling cancer and navigating career shifts, the journey reflects a resilience that defines not only my story but also the essence of KW Media Design.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building a reputation isn’t just about what you do; it’s about the trust you carry with you. Having spent a considerable part of my career at Disney, it became a cornerstone for many who didn’t know me personally but sensed a familiarity and trust associated with the brand. The magic of Disney extends beyond the parks and movies; it permeates the relationships built with those who’ve been a part of its enchanting world.

One significant platform that amplified my presence and connected me with clients is the “Ear For Each Other” Facebook group, a brainchild of Maxine Wild. This group emerged during the challenging times of Covid, providing a haven for furloughed or laid-off Disney cast members like myself. Its purpose was to showcase our talents and side hustles, offering a means of support during a period when the world seemed to stand still. What started as a small initiative quickly grew into a thriving community, now boasting nearly 270,000 members.

This group, a melting pot of former Disney employees and individuals eager to support and engage, became a catalyst for my visibility. It wasn’t just a place to display skills; it became a network of shared experiences, talents, and a genuine camaraderie. Clients, for me, often find their way from this vibrant community or come as referrals, a testament to the trust and connection fostered within “Ear For Each Other.”

In a world that paused, this group not only sustained us but became a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of connections. The ripple effect of this community has been instrumental in shaping not just my career but the success of my business.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kwmediadesign.com