This second iteration of Calm’s topic-based content feature shifted from broad content discovery to a more focused, guided experience. Users selected one topic from Stress and Anxiety, Work Stress, Better Sleep, Self-Care, or Grief and Loss, and moved through a structured path designed to build momentum and keep them engaged.

I led the design of the new progression framework, mapping how users would move through the journey, what they would unlock, and how each piece of content reinforced their chosen topic. The goal was to make each journey feel purposeful and clearly tied to user intent.

I also co-led the design of the visual experience in collaboration with Calm Studios. We created immersive miniature worlds that evolved as users progressed. Each unlockable item was linked to the content and theme of the journey, and a Sloth companion added moments of delight through context-aware animations that responded to progress and time of day. Subtle sound design reinforced the evolving world and added texture to the experience.

I introduced the Rive animation platform to the team and led its creative and technical integration. I built early prototypes, evaluated feasibility, onboarded a contract Rive animator, and partnered with engineering to ensure the experience performed smoothly across platforms.

After launch, I worked with project leads to explore a potential standalone version of the feature. I mapped the information architecture for a dedicated app and collaborated with Studios to concept features like progress maps, badge collection, and personalization.

While the feature didn’t produce the engagement lift we hoped for, it pushed Calm’s creative and technical execution forward. It remains one of the most immersive product experiences we’ve built and laid the groundwork for future experiments in world-based design.