Craig Jackson made over $80 Million in a Day: The High-Octane Journey
When you hear Craig Jackson, you might picture a man surrounded by million-dollar cars, auction paddles flying in the air, and roaring applause as the gavel slams. That’s because Craig is not just a car enthusiast—he’s the powerhouse CEO of Barrett-Jackson, the world’s premier collector car auction company. But behind the polished auction stage and staggering deals—like raking in $80 million in a single day—lies a story of grit, vision, and relentless determination.
The Early Days: A Passion Born in the Garage
Craig Jackson was practically raised with a wrench in one hand and a steering wheel in the other. The car culture was part of his DNA. His father, Russ Jackson, and family friend Tom Barrett co-founded Barrett-Jackson in 1971 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Young Craig grew up watching the classics roll by, observing how machines could become investments, status symbols, and works of art. This wasn’t just passion—it was a blueprint for the future.
Despite being surrounded by mechanical masterpieces, Craig struggled in traditional education. He was labeled a poor student and often misunderstood. Years later, he revealed he had ADD, a condition undiagnosed in his youth. Rather than seeing it as a setback, Craig reframed it as a superpower. “It gives me creativity, it gives me vision, it gives me energy,” he says. “I just had to surround myself with the right people—calm, focused, and driven—to balance me out.”
Steering Barrett-Jackson Into the Future
In 1995, following the passing of his father and co-founder, Tom Barrett, Craig Jackson took over as Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. Many questioned whether he could handle the pressure or maintain the legacy. Craig didn’t just preserve it—he transformed the company into a global brand.
Under his leadership, Barrett-Jackson events evolved into cultural phenomena. Live music, celebrity appearances, TV coverage, and world-class hospitality turned a niche auction house into the Super Bowl of car collecting. The Scottsdale auction in particular—Barrett-Jackson’s flagship event—grew into a multi-day spectacle that attracts enthusiasts from around the world.
And then came the day that changed everything…
Craig Jackson made $80 million in a Single Day
In a moment that made headlines and history, Craig Jackson led a record-breaking auction where Barrett-Jackson generated $80 million in a single day. That figure wasn’t just a business win—it was the result of decades of vision, risk-taking, and cultivating trust within the collector community.
“It’s not just about selling cars,” Craig explains. “It’s about creating an experience, a memory, a legacy.”
Barrett-Jackson had already built a reputation for authenticity and top-tier vehicles. But Craig’s approach to marketing, storytelling, and brand immersion catapulted them into the stratosphere. Buyers weren’t just bidding on cars—they were buying pieces of history. Whether it was a rare Shelby Cobra or a custom-built Corvette, each vehicle came with a story—and a price tag to match.
What School Couldn’t Teach
When asked about his education, Craig Jackson is refreshingly candid. “I was a horrible student. They didn’t know what ADD was back then. But I learned more outside of the classroom than inside it.”
Craig believes business is about adaptability. He shares a powerful lesson: “The world will teach you if you listen. Don’t wait for the perfect plan—take the shot. If you don’t swing, you’ll never hit a home run.”
He contrasts the boldness of Elon Musk launching rockets regularly with companies that spend five years planning one perfect launch that fails. Craig lives by the former—action over perfection.
Lessons for Entrepreneurs
Craig Jackson’s story isn’t just about cars—it’s a masterclass in entrepreneurship. Here are a few of his most powerful takeaways:
Take Big Swings
Whether you’re launching a product or entering a market, you’ll never know what’s possible unless you go for it. Craig’s $80 million day was the result of bold choices and trusting his instincts.Play to Your Strengths
Craig turned ADD from a perceived weakness into an entrepreneurial advantage. His creative bursts and high energy helped him scale a business that others would have played it safe.Build a Strong Team
“I surround myself with A-types—focused, calm, and structured,” he says. He understands that vision alone isn’t enough—you need implementers, analysts, and realists to make the dream work.Experience Matters
Barrett-Jackson isn’t just an auction—it’s an event. Entrepreneurs should think beyond product and look at how they can create immersive experiences for their audiences.Be Transparent & Authentic
In a world full of filters and fakery, Craig is a straight shooter. That’s why collectors, car lovers, and celebrities trust him. Business is built on trust, and Craig has earned it one gavel at a time.
Beyond the Auction House
While most know Craig Jackson from the booming voice at the auction block, his interests go far beyond business. He’s a vintage racer, collector, and restorer. He’s also a philanthropist, involved in multiple charitable initiatives through Barrett-Jackson events. From cancer research to veterans’ support, Craig believes in using his platform for good.
His Instagram offers glimpses into his world—behind the scenes of multimillion-dollar auctions, personal car collections, restoration projects, and moments of reflection. With over 67,000 followers, Craig uses his platform not just to promote, but to inspire.
The Road Ahead
As of 2025, Craig shows no signs of slowing down. With the 2025 Scottsdale Fall Auction set for October 15-18, he’s already gearing up for what could be another historic run. He’s actively encouraging consignments, noting that demand for rare and exotic cars is higher than ever.
But even amid the whirlwind, Craig remains grounded. “At the end of the day, I’m still that kid who loved cars,” he says. “Only now, I get to share that passion with millions.”
Notable Quotes
“If you don’t swing, you’ll never hit a home run.”
— Craig Jackson
“I surround myself with calm, focused, driven people who balance out my energy.”
— Craig Jackson
🔹 Business Lessons from Craig Jackson
Failing at school doesn’t mean failing at life.
Use your unique traits as superpowers.
Surround yourself with people who complement your weaknesses.
The world will teach you—if you listen.
Don’t wait for perfect. Take the shot.
Final Thoughts
Craig Jackson’s story is proof that you don’t have to follow the traditional path to build an extraordinary life. From struggling in school to becoming a titan in the collector car world, Craig has rewritten the rules of success. His $80 million day is just one highlight in a life fueled by purpose, passion, and an unapologetic love for the road.
If you’re looking for inspiration to bet on yourself, take risks, and build something remarkable, look no further than Craig Jackson. He’s not just driving cars—he’s driving a legacy. Click here for more!
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