If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to lead a creative business, this episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes with Justin Tollefson is a must-listen. As Principal at Pearson Design Group, an award-winning architecture firm based in Bozeman, Montana, Justin opens up about the leadership lessons, hiring philosophies, and team culture practices that drive a successful creative company.
This episode is part of our Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes podcast series, where we uncover the real stories behind running and growing a business.
🧠 Episode Highlights: What It Takes to Lead a Creative Business
Evolving as a Leader in a Creative Firm
Justin reflects on his journey from young architect to business owner—and how his approach to leadership has shifted from “proving” himself to listening and mentoring others.
“Leadership isn’t about proving yourself—it’s about listening, synthesizing, and supporting others.”
Hiring for Character, Training for Skill
A key part of what it takes to lead a creative business is hiring the right people. Justin shares how PDG looks for honesty, character, and energy—then trains for technical skills like software and project workflows.
“You don’t really know if someone’s a fit until they’re in it—but if they have character and honesty, you can train for everything else.”
Creating a Culture of Patience and Growth
With a team of 17–22 people, PDG thrives on collaboration, mentorship, and patience. Justin explains why patience is essential for both leaders and younger staff in architecture.
“If people are patient, they tend to find more meaning in the work. That’s where the real growth happens.”
🌱 Developing People & Building Sustainable Practices
Another big theme in this episode is developing people in a profession where leadership training isn’t formally taught. Justin also shares his excitement about the future—especially pushing sustainability further with innovative clients and projects.
This ties back to our episode on building a team that grows with you where we also explore hiring philosophies for small businesses.
🗣️ Memorable Quotes from Justin Tollefson
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“Design is easy. People are harder—and that’s where leadership lives.”
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“Leadership kind of just emerges as we do things together.”
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“Balancing creativity with management is how you earn the space to do more of the fun stuff.”
📝 Key Takeaways from This Episode
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Hire for character, train for skill
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Team culture matters more than hierarchy
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Patience is key to meaningful work and growth
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Leadership is about supporting people, not proving yourself
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Sustainable practices are the next big frontier for creative businesses
🔗 Featured Guest
Justin Tollefson
Principal at Pearson Design Group
📍 Bozeman, Montana
🌐 pearsondesigngroup.com
📸 @pearsondesigngroup
🎧 Listen Now
🎙️ Listen to the full episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes
Want more? Check out our related episodes on:
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📣 Final Thought from Justin
“Balancing the things that seem unmanageable with the things that are—that’s what it takes to lead a creative business.”
