Meet Jonathan Barfield

We were lucky to catch up with Jonathan Barfield recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Jonathan with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?

Work ethic steaming from my background, Grandmother/mother -upbringing, family. Being highly motivated and producing consistently high-quality results. Work ethic learned through early childhood experiences, including interactions with family, peers, and significant adults who teach values about work and responsibility. By setting personal goals, practicing self-discipline, and developing good time management skills. Work ethic and experiences from trail and error.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Jonathan Barfield, the Founder and CEO of Inspired Athletes, embarked on his path to success in the world of athletic training and youth development. Join us as Jonathan shares his experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided him along the way. On October 5, 2022, Jonathan officially formed Inspired Athletes, turning his dream into a thriving reality.

As the Owner and Founder of Inspired Athletes, Jonathan Barfield created a basketball skills development company that has worked with over 500 athletes in the Middle Tennessee area. Former Varsity Coach St.Paul Christian Academy, Saint Bernard Academy. Current 7th and 8th boys assistant coach Montgomery Bell Academy, Skills Trainer Vertical Gyms, Core Hoops, Basketball Skills Development Trainer ”Inspired Athletes”

Former Collegiate/EuroBasket Athlete. Former AAU Coach Upward Stars, EAB, New Level, Pro Skills Basketball, Middle Tennessee Soldiers.

Attributes to success /strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, time management, meticulous record-keeping, cost control, and a relentless focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences. Providing Athletes an platform and opportunity regardless of skill levels.

To inspire others, believing in being motivated himself and treating each person as an individual. Offering challenges, keeping team informed, creates an encouraging environment, and recognizes achievements. Understanding that results take time and patience is crucial for sustainable success.
Featured in multiple publications including Valiant CEO, Entrepreneur Impact, Shout-out Atlanta, Dallas Voyager, Good news Magazine, Thrive Times US, Main StreetMediaTenn, Stardom101, Bold Journey, Canvas Rebel, and Voyager Nashville.
Currently pursing gym owning facilities, NBA, Collegiate Levels.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Character, discipline, staying grounded while keeping God first. Be self motivated and contained ; Advises new entrepreneurs to find mentors, listen closely to customers, think long-term, and seek guidance from those with experience.

Encourages embracing change, asking questions, staying self-motivated, managing finances wisely, and using imagination to fuel growth. Emphasizes the importance of having a structured schedule and ensuring adequate rest to avoid burnout and maintain peak performance in both business and life.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

Inspired Athletes was founded was founded in honor of his grandmother, who passed away on October 5, 2022. My mother, family upbringing who installed work ethic at a young age. Athletic Director Kevin Connely who provided a coaching opportunity/ St.Paul Christian Academy and gym access. Pastor Tommy Clark, who allowed the church gym at West Nashville Church during the early days of the business.

In the early stages, finding available gym space posed a significant challenge. However, after building strong relationships with facility owners, Jonathan secured consistent access to training spaces, which he has now used for over three years. His dedication has come with personal sacrifices, including reduced family and social time, which he has willingly made to support his vision.

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