In this compelling episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, host Kyle Matthews sits down with Will Bartholomew, the founder and CEO of D1 Training. From his early days as a three-sport high school athlete to playing football alongside Peyton Manning at the University of Tennessee, Will shares his incredible journey. After a series of knee injuries ended his NFL career with the Denver Broncos, Will channeled his passion and drive into creating D1 Training, a leading fitness franchise now with over 152 locations and an additional 250 in development. Listen as Will discusses his entrepreneurial spirit, the importance of passion, and the disciplined mindset that has led him to where he is today. Will also delves into balancing family life while building multiple businesses, the impact of NIL on youth sports, and the invaluable lessons learned from both successes and setbacks. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on achieving dreams, overcoming adversity, and the pivotal role of perseverance. Like, share, and subscribe for more insightful episodes.
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Find Will:
Twitter: x.com/d1sports
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-bartholomew-35b60789/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d1sports/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willbartholomew/
Website: https://www.d1training.com/
Youtube: @D1training
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Find Kyle:
https://www.matthews.com
https://www.thematthewsmentalitypodcast.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylematthewsceo
Twitter: https://x.com/kylematthewsceo
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-matthews-ceo/
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00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:58 Meet Will Bartholomew: From Athlete to Entrepreneur
01:42 The Birth of D1 Training
02:08 Early Challenges and Growth
04:06 Building a Lifestyle Company
05:56 The Importance of Passion and Persistence
10:26 Expanding the Vision
17:53 Lessons from Adversity
24:46 Franchising and Future Plans
28:08 The Real Estate Journey
28:25 Franchising the Concept
28:56 Exiting the Therapy Business
30:02 Rebuilding the D1 Model
31:15 The Impact of NIL on Business
33:43 Teaching Character Through Sports
35:58 The Growth Mindset
43:09 Advice for Entrepreneurs
45:54 Balancing Business and Family
51:13 Intentionality and Success
56:33 Final Thoughts and Reflections