My life story epitomizes resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams despite facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. My journey from incarceration to entrepreneurship is not just a tale of personal redemption but also a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance in the face of adversity. After spending a decade behind bars, I emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to rebuild my life and provide for my family. My wife, Cyndy Barnes, stood steadfastly by my side throughout my incarceration, embodying the true meaning of unconditional love and unwavering support. Together, we embarked on a journey fraught with obstacles, but fueled by a shared vision of success.
I dove headfirst into the fitness industry, leveraging my passion for health and wellness to carve out a niche for myself. However, just as our dreams were beginning to take shape, tragedy struck when our newly purchased home was flooded up to the second floor, threatening to wash away everything we had worked so hard to achieve.
Under Todd’s leadership, Cyndy and I embarked on a journey of growth and expansion, laying the foundation for our own fitness business. With Todd’s mentorship, we navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship, learning invaluable lessons along the way. Our perseverance paid off as we successfully opened five locations in just four years, a testament to our unwavering commitment to success. My journey serves as a reminder that success is not measured by the absence of challenges but rather by one’s ability to overcome them. My resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of possibility have not only propelled me to new heights of success but have also inspired countless others to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. In a world fraught with uncertainty, I stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding others that no obstacle is insurmountable in the pursuit of their dreams.
The following important points were discussed:
- My journey from incarceration to entrepreneurship, supported by my wife Cyndy Barnes.
- Facing setbacks such as job loss and a devastating flood, but remaining resilient and determined.
- Seeking guidance and mentorship from Todd Durkin in the fitness industry.
- “It is not the strongest of a species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives, but the one most adaptable to change.
Timestamps:
3:53-5:09
Asked “where are you at?” at our franchisee
Opened five locations in 4 years and wanted to return to the world with the same approach but the world is not the same anymore after the pandemic of 2020.
6:21-7:40
Asked franchisee an important question “Will you climb up to the mountain top even when you can’t see the path?”
7:45-9:20
I shared about their franchisees when they’ve chosen to open up locations, they were also previous business owners.
9:20-10:25
Shared about Jeremy. Jeremy changed the Journey Logo, since the journey fitness was already a trademark. It became Journey 333.
10:41-11:55
Asked franchisees a question “Who do you want to be a hero to?” I also answered this question, I wanted to be a hero for my franchisees.
12:47-13:17
Talked to franchisee about what a big industry it is.
13:36-16:00
Shared about how the world is going and what the world is interested in
17:15-17:29
Shared a quote from Charles Darwin “It is not the strongest of a species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives, but the one most adaptable to change.”