Justin Henriksen started in the design business as a freelancer who, in 2008, couldn’t find work that was incredibly meaningful. Although he had no intention of starting a business at that time, it was his long-term goal and when he couldn’t find a job he was excited about, he decided the time must be right. He now has a small flourishing design company, Nouvo Design, and a tech start-up that he is a part of. Nouvo Design specializes in apps, web apps, mobile web design and websites.
Tell us a little about your family. – Currently it’s my wife, my dog and myself. My wife and I have been married just over three years now. She has been so very patient. She thought she knew what she was getting into, so did I, but I don’t think she “really” knew what it would take to get this off the ground. I adopted my dog about 6 1/2 years ago from my hometown of Yankton.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – There are so many. High school, college, college the second time, moving, starting a business, meeting my wife. You name it, I can see where there’s been a pivot in my life that’s lead me to do what I am doing.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Umm, day off? Ha, ha. I really don’t have much time off. I really hate to admit that. Right now, it’s 9:30pm and I’m still working. I love to get outdoors. Smell some fresh air.
What are you the most proud of? – My marriage. It’s not perfect, but it’s far better than I ever thought I could do as a husband. It’s taught me a lot about business, and life.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Don’t trust all advice.
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish? – To leave a legacy for my kids (that I will someday have). Something they would be proud to say they were a part of as a kid and be honored to talk about as adults.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Flight. I know we all have dreams about it, but I think it would be really cool. Maybe not practical, but cool.
Which talent would you most like to have? – To be a better people-person. I really want to add value to people, and sometimes it’s a talent I don’t have, but have to force a bit from day to day.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Seth Godin’s Linchpin. I really enjoyed the valuable information that book had for me. Before that it was 25 Ways to Win with People by John C Maxwell.
What is your favorite movie? – A River Runs Through It — cheesy, I know. But, it’s a great movie with a ton of great acting, and emotionally the most memorable movie I can think of right at this moment in time.
What is your favorite TV show? – History Channel’s The Universe. I am a space nut. Love it.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – I am not originally from Omaha, so I don’t have a favorite yet.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – They can call me: 402-915-0639, or email me: justin@nouvodesign.com (There’s always Twitter and Facebook too ;) )