About this episode
In this insightful episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, host Jamie Seeker talks with Justin Tollefson, Principal at Pearson Design Group, a boutique architecture firm based in Bozeman, Montana known for designing stunning, story-driven homes. Justin opens up about his 20+ year journey with the firm, how his leadership style has evolved, and what it really takes to run a design-focused business with heart. From building creative culture and hiring for character to developing young talent and navigating the less glamorous parts of leadership, this conversation gets real about the human side of architecture.Whether you're leading a team, managing creatives, or just trying to build something meaningful, this episode is full of grounded insights and wisdom for business owners in any industry.? Show Notes:Guest: Justin Tollefson, Principal at Pearson Design GroupLocation: Bozeman, MontanaInstagram: @pearsondesigngroupWebsite: pearsondesigngroup.comTopics Covered:Justin’s evolution from young designer to firm principalHiring for character and training for skillBalancing creativity with accountability in a team environmentWhy patience is critical in the architecture worldDeveloping people when you were never formally trained to do soThe leadership shift from “me” to “we”The dream of pushing sustainable architecture furtherWhat it truly takes to run a business with creative integrity? Memorable Quotes:“The older I get, the more I realize leadership isn’t about proving yourself—it’s about listening, synthesizing, and supporting others.” — Justin Tollefson“You can want to design a cool building, but if you lose sight that it’s for real people, you’ve missed the point.” — Justin Tollefson“You don’t really know if someone’s a fit until they’re in it—
