Influential Woman · OTC Pharmaceuticals
Rachel N. Larson
Lead Designer, Kobayashi Healthcare International
Niles, IL 60714
Her Story
About Rachel
I've always been drawn to creative problem solving. What started as a love for design has grown into a career centered around building—building brands, building trust, and helping people communicate with confidence.
In my role as Lead Designer at Kobayashi Healthcare International, I create packaging, branding, advertising, digital marketing, and retail materials for nationally recognized healthcare brands. Working in healthcare has taught me that great design isn't just about looking good—it's about helping people make informed decisions by presenting information in a way that's clear, approachable, and trustworthy.
That same passion led me to found White Star Studio, where I work directly with entrepreneurs and small businesses to build brands from the ground up. One of my favorite parts of the process is uncovering what makes each business unique and translating that into a visual identity that feels authentic and built to grow alongside them.
When I look back on my career, I realize the projects I'm most proud of all have one thing in common—they've allowed me to build something meaningful. Sometimes that's a nationally recognized product launch, sometimes it's a small business finding its voice, and sometimes it's mentoring another designer as they grow in their own career. Those opportunities have reinforced my belief that thoughtful design can create lasting impact, not just beautiful work.
Whether I'm collaborating with a global team or volunteering within my local equestrian community, my goal is always the same: to leave people, brands, and organizations stronger than I found them.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Rachel
01What do you attribute your success to?
Curiosity has probably been the biggest contributor to my success.
I've never wanted to stop learning. Whether it's exploring new design tools, adapting to new technologies, or simply asking more questions, I've found that staying curious opens the door to better ideas and stronger relationships. I also believe success comes from being dependable, treating people with kindness, and remembering that the best creative work is almost always a team effort.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning.
The design industry is constantly evolving, and I've realized that the people who continue to grow are the ones who stay curious. Every project, every challenge, and every piece of feedback is an opportunity to improve. That mindset has helped me adapt to new technologies, build confidence in my work, and continue growing as both a designer and a leader.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't wait until you feel "ready."
Be willing to put your work out into the world, ask questions, and learn from every opportunity. Build a portfolio that reflects who you are instead of trying to create work you think people expect to see.
The creative industry is changing quickly, especially with AI becoming part of our everyday workflow. Rather than being intimidated by it, I'd encourage designers to stay curious and learn how these tools can make them more efficient. Technology will continue to evolve, but creativity, empathy, communication, and strategic thinking will always be the skills that set great designers apart.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I think one of the biggest opportunities right now is learning how to thoughtfully integrate AI into the creative process.
AI has already changed the way designers brainstorm, prototype, and create, but I don't see it replacing creativity—I see it giving us more time to focus on the parts of our work that matter most: strategy, storytelling, and solving real problems.
The designers who will thrive are the ones who embrace change, stay adaptable, and continue building the human skills that technology can't replace.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, curiosity, kindness, and authenticity are values I try to bring into everything I do.
I believe in showing up prepared, treating people with respect, and doing work I'm proud to stand behind. I've also learned that some of the best ideas come from listening, collaborating, and being open to different perspectives.
Whether I'm working with a national healthcare brand, helping a small business build its identity, or volunteering in my local equestrian community, I want people to feel heard, supported, and confident that I'm invested in their success just as much as my own.
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