---
title: Mastering Creativity and Commerce with Doug Nordberg of Nordberg Furniture
description: We’re joined by an incredible panel of creative entrepreneurs to explore the challenges and rewards of turning passion into a successful business.
---

[Insights](https://planningalt.com/insights)

# [Mastering Creativity and Commerce with Doug Nordberg of Nordberg Furniture](https://planningalt.com/insights/mastering-creativity-and-commerce-with-doug-nordberg)

 Written by [Planning Alternatives](https://planningalt.com/insights/author/planning-alternatives) | March 18, 2025

| <https://open.spotify.com/episode/0tEtmxH4Z8KEalz5SHk1sz> | <https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mastering-creativity-and-commerce-with-doug/id1376400571?i=1000699452771> | <https://youtu.be/0ILkrBONUbw> |
| --- | --- | --- |

 

We’re joined by Doug Nordberg, Furniture Designer at Nordberg Furniture, on this episode. Doug started crafting furniture at age 12 and has become a celebrated designer in Cody, Wyoming. He reflects on the challenges of balancing art and business, the lessons learned from slow times, and the importance of financial planning in building a sustainable creative career. From embracing strong emotional reactions to his work to creating opportunities for innovation, Doug offers advice on living a fulfilling life as an artist.

 

Key Takeaways:

- (01:37) Doug’s journey into furniture design began at age 12.
- (02:23) The annual antler shedding cycle and its role in Doug’s work.
- (05:07) Using early financial advice to shape an entrepreneurial path.
- (07:16) Balancing artistry and business as both a designer and gallery owner.
- (08:13) The importance of embracing strong reactions, even rejection, in art.
- (10:55) Viewing slow business periods as opportunities for creativity and growth.
- (13:59) The challenges of balancing passion with practicality.
- (15:30) Advice for young artists: focus on passion and develop strong business skills.
- (17:27) Defining true wealth as the freedom to focus on what truly matters.

 

> “ Somebody not liking what you do is not necessarily a bad thing.”  
> \-  Doug Nordberg

 

Resources Mentioned:

- [Nordberg Gallery website](https://nordberggallery.com/)
- [Western Design Conference](https://www.westerndesignconference.com)

 

Connect with Doug Nordberg, Furniture Designer at Nordberg Furniture

LinkedIn: [www.linkedin.com/in/doug-nordberg-8221a474/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-nordberg-8221a474/)

 

Connect with Nathan Mersereau:   
Phone: 248-645-1520   
Email: [nathan.mersereau@planningalt.com](mailto:nathan.mersereau@planningalt.com)  
Twitter: [@NathanMersereau](https://twitter.com/nathanmersereau)  
LinkedIn: [Nathan Mersereau](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-mersereau-cfp%C2%AE-a984761/)  
Address: 255 S Old Woodward, Suite 310  
Birmingham, MI 48009

 

[View full post](https://planningalt.com/insights/mastering-creativity-and-commerce-with-doug-nordberg)

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