Bruce Frederick Rutherford, born on November 30, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, was raised in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. From an early age, he developed a strong work ethic working on his father's farm. Despite facing hardships like his father's bankruptcy and imprisonment, Bruce excelled in both sports and academics, earning a place in the Mt. Vernon Sports Hall of Fame and a football scholarship to Georgia Tech. He graduated with honors in Industrial Management and later earned an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Bruce's professional journey is marked by entrepreneurial spirit and leadership. Starting in Masonite Corporation's accounting department, he co-founded a successful mortgage refinancing business before joining LaSalle Partners. His career highlights include opening LaSalle’s first California office, expanding operations on the West Coast, and leading Jones Lang LaSalle’s Tenant Representation business in Asia Pacific. Bruce's strategic vision and leadership culminated in the merger of Staubach's Houston office with Jones Lang LaSalle in 2007. Even after the 2008 financial crisis, he adapted and thrived, eventually investing in Flame Seal Products LLC, where he now serves as Vice Chairman.
Bruce's passion for rational governance and economic reform is the driving force behind “Common Sense for America,” a podcast inspired by Thomas Paine’s principles. His manifesto advocates for tax reform, economic stability, and protection of individual freedoms. Beyond his professional achievements, Bruce is committed to philanthropy, actively developing the “YOU CAN DO IT” lecture series for disadvantaged students and working on educational materials. Married to Terry Turner in 1974, with whom he has two children, Blake and Marin, Bruce remarried Betty in 2000. As he transitions into the next chapter of his life, he aims to travel, spend time with family, and continue his mission of promoting common sense governance and civic responsibility.
Bruce Frederick Rutherford is a senior scholar influenced by the writings of Thomas Paine, Milton and Rose Friedman, and other integral thought-leaders. From riches, to rags, and finally towards self-reliance, Rutherford brings passion and empathy to a bipartisan audience, and encourages an environment where we can discuss the ideas that have shaped this nation. History is Our Story, and our stories deserve to be told. Bond with Bruce and share YOUR story, questions, and ideas. He might just give you a shout out on our next episode.