Hi, I’m Crista

Since 2002, I have helped brands, businesses and entrepreneurs drive sales, build communities, and find ways to make a positive impact on the world. My diverse background in research, business and marketing fuels my high-level strategy and passion for creative problem-solving.

I’m the Founder & CEO of Dirtbag Runners, a published Academic Researcher in Sports & Positive Psychology, Adjunct Instructor of Social Media Marketing & Content Marketing Manager for The School of Business at Portland State University.

In 2015, I founded Dirtbag Runners (DirtbagRunners.com / Instagram: @DirtbagRunners), an online and in-real-life community of runners from around the world. What started out as a social media network and small apparel brand, bloomed into a successful eCommerce business, event company and community of over 150,000 runners worldwide. This led me to amazing opportunities to write and co-content alongside outdoor brands and publications including Patagonia, REI, Runner’s World Magazine, Trail Runner Magazine, Lululemon, Luna Sandals, and Adidas.

After five years of running my own business, I decided to take what I had learned in business and apply it to education. From 2019-2021, I worked at The School of Business at Portland State University as the Content Marketing Manager and Adjunct Instructor, teaching business social media strategy.

Most recently in the Winter of 2021, I returned to consulting by joining the Propeller Consulting team here in Portland, Oregon. I look forward to continued growth, development and education in business strategy, marketing and leadership.

When I’m not working, I love riding bicycles with my husband Michael around Portland, Oregon, thrift store shopping, gardening, cooking, hiking, photography, rollerskating and playing with our miniature dachshund, Penny.