About Jason Mayden

Origins and Creative Foundations

Jason Mayden's career began as the first design intern at Jordan Brand, rising to Senior Footwear Designer where he contributed to iconic projects like the Air Jordan XVII Mule.[1][5] A Stanford GSB MSx ’11 alum from Oakland, he credits his parents as his 'first seed investors' for fueling his journey through hard work and imagination.[10][20][22] His early path highlights branding's role in engendering 'distinction' and analysis impacting design.[11]

Design Philosophy: Playfulness and Superhero Mindsets

Mayden views design as empowering the next generation of 'superheroes' through playfulness, believing it fosters heroism in all.[3][12][14] As former Nike Senior Global Design Director and Super Heroic CEO, he prioritizes curiosity, humility, and preserving imagination amid sneaker culture's influence.[6][7][14] He reshapes creative lives by urging play together to solve problems, inspired by his children.[12][14]

Entrepreneurship and Ownership

Mayden embodies entrepreneurship, founding Super Heroic (backed by Magic Johnson, shaping his business acumen) after corporate life where 'Dad' wasn't valued.[13][19][21] He stresses ownership to protect Black creativity, evolving from corporate design to independent ventures like Super Heroic toys for heroic play.[8][12][16][17][18] Stories like missing Orlando and 'One Day It'll All Make Sense' reveal his resilient 'why'.[16][17]

Social Impact and Youth Advocacy

A designer, entrepreneur, teacher, and hoop fanatic, Mayden advocates for children, speaking on fashion's way forward and cultural alchemy.[2][10][18] He protects youth imagination, influences sneaker culture humbly, and nurtures creative classes at places like Claremont Colleges.[4][7][9] Fatherhood drives his superhero ethos, prioritizing family over titles.[13][19]

Cultural Influence and Leadership

Now Jordan Brand's Chief Design Officer, Mayden leads with optimism, sharing leadership lessons from Magic Johnson and crediting parental support.[6][21][22] His talks cover creative rises, unexpected connections, and triumph of the willing, blending music/arts, design, and impact.[11][15][18]