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John Larson is the CEO of Bestop, the largest manufacturer of soft tops for Jeep Wrangler and CJ’s in the world. They are the sole supplier of factory soft tops for Jeep Wranglers since 1986. They have a long history of innovative and high-quality products. John worked at General Motors Corporation in several significant positions including General Director of Finance for U.S. Sales and General Manager of the Buick, Pontiac, and GMC Divisions. He was the CEO of Escort, a leading manufacturer of radar detectors and other automotive electronics accessories. John’s lectured at Purdue’s Krannert School of Management’s Executive Leadership series and is a guest lecturer at Northern Illinois University’s School of Business. He also serves as the Lead Director for the Board of KAR Auction Services, voted a top public company in Indiana.
SHOW SPONSORS
Christopher Kimball Financial Services
SUCCESS QUOTE
“Follow your passion, embrace the opportunity, and have fun while you’re doing it.”
CAREER & LIFE CHALLENGES
Discovering at 27 years old he had aggressive lymphoma.
AH-HA MOMENTS
Dealing with the financial challenges in the automotive industry right after the 911 attacks.
FIRST SPECIAL CAR
A Classic Roadster Austin Healey
BEST AUTOMOTIVE ADVICE
Treat the vehicle like a brand, and not a piece of hardware. Make sure you don’t oversupply the marketplace with it, and make sure it delivers exactly what the customer needs.
USEFUL RESOURCES
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
Crash Course by Paul Ingrassia
PARTING WORDS OF ADVICE
Follow your passion and have fun while you’re doing it.
WHERE TO FIND JOHN
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