I’m Bard Nielsen, born and raised, and now raising my own family – right here in Golden, Colorado. I have a wife and two awesome kiddos, too many dogs, and a passion for all things Colorado living ~ snowboarding/skiing, hiking, camping, outdoors, craft beer, Red Rocks, patio season, and more. We live and call home Genesee, in the foothills outside of downtown Golden. We are passionate about Colorado, the lifestyle, and everything that makes this amazing place home.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career/accomplishments. What do you love most about what you do?
As a home inspector, I love being able to help provide peace of mind and confidence for my clients in a fresh and friendly way. Over time, home inspectors often garnered a reputation of being negative, difficult, and “deal breakers”. My approach is to provide every client a top-notch service and a positive experience during what is often a stressful time. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture and Environmental Design and worked for many years in the residential design and construction industry.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants or breweries in our community?
D’Deli and Woody’s are two long-time favorites places to eat. New Terrain and Cannonball Creek are my favs for beer!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Nearly my entire life. I grew up in Golden and have lived in Genesee for the past 8 years with my wife and kids. My parents still live in Golden as well as my sister and her family.
Q: What is one of your favorite hiking or biking trails?
That’s as difficult as picking my favorite brewery, there are so many great local options. Apex, Beaver Brook, Mt Falcon, Matthews Winters…how about whichever one I’m on is my favorite!
Q: What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
Always be ready and willing to adapt to anything life throws your way.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
My favorite place in Golden as a kid was called the Five and Dime. It was on Washington, where Baby Doe’s Clothing is now. They had candy, including 1 cent bubble gum, little toys, and sports cards. Anytime I had earned or found some money, I’d ride my bike there to spend it on whatever I could.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I think Golden has a really good vibe and identity which make it such a nice place to live and spend time in. Plenty of access to the outdoor activities, a vibrant small-town feel, with friendly people. I think that’s why so many people I grew up with have stayed or moved back and why many others wish they could live here.
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m a Leadville Trail 100 finisher and a GABF Gold Medal winner.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My wife Krista. She does it all – she’s an incredible partner and mom, who’s also super driven and successful in her professional career.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family. Foothills. Golden.