John Cerasani is one of those rare business minds who didn’t just follow a roadmap—he created his own. From his early days in Chicago to building a multi-million-dollar empire, John’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. He’s not just an entrepreneur. He’s also a published author, podcast host, venture capitalist, and a family man who’s made smart moves in the world of business.
Let’s explore his journey, his ventures, and how he built his $12 million fortune.
Early Life and Roots in Chicago
Born in 1985, John Cerasani is 40 years old as of 2025. He grew up in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. His childhood wasn’t full of privilege, but it was filled with possibility. His parents encouraged him to dream big and stay focused on education. That mindset would become the backbone of his success.
From a young age, John showed an unusual interest in business. While most kids were playing outside, he was diving into books about entrepreneurship and money management. This early spark later turned into full-blown ambition.
Education That Fueled His Vision
John took his goals seriously and earned a degree in Business Management from the University of Notre Dame. But he didn’t stop there. He later went on to study at Northwestern University, where he graduated with a degree in Education and Social Policy.
This mix of business and social understanding gave him a unique advantage. He could think like a businessman and act like a mentor—something that would define his leadership style later in life.
Early Career and The Big Leap
John’s first job wasn’t flashy. He started in business-to-business sales, which taught him valuable lessons in understanding people, solving real-world problems, and negotiating. These weren’t just skills. They were stepping stones to something much bigger.
In his late twenties, John made a bold move. He launched Northwest Comprehensive, an insurance brokerage. Many young founders struggle in their first venture, but John’s startup didn’t just survive—it thrived. His clear focus on customer satisfaction and innovative marketing helped the company grow fast.
Eventually, he sold Northwest Comprehensive to a private equity firm. That deal not only gave him a financial boost but also credibility in the business world.
Founding Glencrest Global
After selling his first company, John could have taken it easy. But that’s not who he is. Instead, he founded Glencrest Global, a venture capital firm that invests in high-growth startups.
John isn’t just the guy who writes the checks. He’s the managing partner and often takes a hands-on approach in mentoring the startups he backs. Glencrest Global has invested in several innovative businesses, and many of them have credited John’s mentorship as a key factor in their success.
Other Ventures and Leadership Roles
John is also a board member at Quicket Solutions, a tech company that offers cloud-based tools for government agencies. His business instincts have helped the company navigate tough decisions and scale up smartly.
He believes in staying ahead of market trends and is known for spotting potential in areas others overlook. Whether it’s fintech, software, or consumer brands—he brings strategy and heart into every investment.
A Family Man Behind the Scenes
While his business achievements are impressive, John’s personal life is equally balanced. He’s a proud father and lives a grounded lifestyle despite his success. He often talks about the importance of family, and how being present at home helps him stay centered in his professional life.
Books, Podcast & Personal Branding
John also shares his business wisdom through writing. He’s the author of “2000 Percent Raise” and “Paid Training: Learn the Industry, Leave Your Job, Win on Your Own.” Both books aim to empower people who want to take control of their careers and build something of their own.
On top of that, he hosts a podcast called “2000 Percent Raise”, where he chats with business leaders, athletes, and creators. The podcast isn’t just about motivation—it offers practical insights that help listeners take action.
John Cerasani’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, John Cerasani’s net worth is estimated at $12 million. That number comes from a combination of smart business moves, profitable exits, investment returns, book royalties, and podcast monetization.
Here’s a quick breakdown of his income sources:
- Entrepreneurship: Proceeds from Northwest Comprehensive and ongoing involvement in Glencrest Global
- Venture Capital: Equity gains from startups funded by Glencrest
- Books & Podcast: Royalties, sponsorships, and branding deals
- Board Roles: Compensation from companies like Quicket Solutions
John’s strategy is clear—never rely on just one stream of income. He believes in diversification, long-term growth, and building value that lasts.
Why His Story Matters
What sets John apart isn’t just the numbers—it’s his mindset. He focuses on long-term wins, empowers others through mentorship, and lives with a sense of purpose. His leadership style is built on three key principles:
- Empower your team
- Stay curious and keep learning
- Always look ahead
In a world that often chases quick results, John’s steady climb reminds us that success is a journey. His story isn’t just for business buffs—it’s for anyone looking to turn ideas into action.
Whether you’re starting a new business, launching a side hustle, or just figuring things out, there’s a lot to learn from how John Cerasani built his path—one bold step at a time.
