The 2014 Breakthrough
In 2014, Men’s Health magazine launched a nationwide search to find America’s top personal trainer. Out of thousands who auditioned, I was one of just eight finalists who was selected. But let’s rewind.
At that time, my belief in myself as an elite personal trainer wasn’t rock solid. I had been a part-time trainer for about 5 years at this point. I had designs on opening a performance training gym.
But I had to start all over after a former business associate backed out of the plan to open this gym. That was a powerful body shot put me down on the mat. I ended up at a small personal training studio in Philadelphia. I had only four independent clients at the time. I was working at three different gyms and cutting hair (I’m a licensed barber) out of my apartment. I was broke and not anywhere close to where I wanted to be.
When I saw the ad for Next Top Trainer, my first reaction wasn’t excitement. It was fear and trepidation. I watched some of the early audition videos, and in my eyes, those trainers were ahead of me. They had bigger platforms, flashier styles, and more credentials. I didn’t think I measured up at the time.
So, I called three people: My Mom who always tells it straight. My future wife, Shekhinah B., who believed in the vision before it was visible. And my brother from another mother, Jazmane, who was in the trenches with me as a fellow personal trainer.
All three said the same thing: “Are you crazy? You HAVE to enter this competition!” Sometimes, you need others to believe in you before you believe in yourself. So, I entered and the grind began.
The Philly live audition got cancelled. So, I took the train to New York City two weeks later. I was beyond nervous, but I knew I had one shot to prove I belonged and fulfill my destiny.
What took the pressure up to game 7 levels was that I was the first trainer to audition that day. I brought the energy, the knowledge, and the presence. And the judges felt it. They told me so.
That moment earned me my place as the first finalist selected. I didn’t win the title that year. But I gained something even more valuable: Belief, experience, and a fire to come back sharper next year. You can watch my audition at the 15:38 mark.
Don’t Call It A Comeback
I’m not built to lose and just accept it. In 2015, I hit the road and drove seven hours from Philly to Columbus, Ohio for another shot at winning the title of America’s Top Trainer.
The pressure was different this time. The judges remembered 2014. They expected more. The bar was higher. And while my performance was stronger, sharper, and more seasoned, not all of the judges were sold. Some questioned if I had the fire to truly compete at the highest level.
But I didn’t fold. I showed up and delivered. And despite their doubts, my presence couldn’t be ignored. I was selected as a finalist for the second straight year. I was one of only two trainers in the country to earn that distinction.
I didn’t take home the crown in 2015. But I didn’t fold either. I jumped from a quiet 7th place finish in 2014 to a hard-earned 4th place in 2015. That kind of leap doesn’t come from luck. It comes from consistency, patience, and a relentless drive to level up. You can watch my audition at the 5:24 mark.
The Bigger Picture
Competing in Men’s Health Next Top Trainer was an incredible honor. I gained exposure, wisdom, and respect from leaders in the fitness industry. But most importantly, I learned that what I do matters. And that real coaching leaves a mark.
Today, I bring that same energy, preparation, and high-level standard to every athlete, bodybuilder, and client I work with. Whether you’re chasing the stage or looking to get into the best shape of your life, know this: I’ve been battle-tested. I’ve stood among the best. And I’m ready to help you build your best body.
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You’ve seen the story. You’ve watched the journey. Now it’s time to write your own.
If you’re serious about changing your body, building elite discipline, or stepping on stage, don’t wait. I’m not just a guy with a story. I’m a master trainer who helps real people get real results.
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The People’s Trainer,
Fitman