Sometimes, the best ideas come from the most unexpected places.

Thanks for visiting A Little Messed Up—where it’s perfectly fine to laugh, be real, and maybe even ask for help along the way. Here’s how we got started!

For John Nolterieke, the founder of A Little Messed Up, it all started with a lighthearted moment with his Doctor, and subsequently his Therapist.

John, a successful HVAC business owner in New York, had just gotten a clean bill of health from his Doctor. But when he later chatted with his therapist, he was told there were still a few things he needed to work through to achieve the next phase of his life goals. Taking it all in stride, John thought, Why not make a little fun out of this? And that’s when the idea struck—he designed a t-shirt as a playful nod to the conversation with his therapist.

When John wore the shirt outside, a lot of people he knew couldn’t help but ask where they could get one. Inspired by the positive reactions, he started coming up with more sayings—funny, real, and a little offbeat. This sparked the beginning of A Little Messed Up, a brand that celebrates the ups and downs of life with humor and honesty.

But it’s not just about the shirts and mugs. John believes in building a community where it’s okay to admit you sometimes might need a hand or a little encouragement. A big part of A Little Messed Up is about breaking the stigma for those seeking mental wellness, and reminding people that seeking help is not just normal—it’s healthy.

To support this mission, a portion of every purchase goes to mental health organizations, helping others get the support they need. So, whether you’re grabbing a mug for your morning coffee or a tee to show off your sense of humor, know that you’re also making a difference.