D1 Training Founder Will Bartholomew Recognized as Top Entrepreneur in Southeast | D1 Daily

D1 Daily is a curated list of anecdotes and links with an eye towards training. The suggestion box is open.

As D1 Training continues to gain recognition as a top fitness franchise, D1 CEO Will Bartholomew was named as one of the top entrepreneurs in the southeast by Ernst & Young.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year Southeast Awards celebrations took place last week at the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre in The Battery district of Atlanta.

The event celebrates bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world’s most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities.

Bartholomew was one of 36 finalists honored by EY. An independent panel of judges selected the finalists for their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and lasting impact in building long-term value. 

Bartholomew founded D1 Training in 2002 and has grown the business to 152 franchise locations throughout the United States, as of June 2025.

"Our company's making a positive impact by serving one athlete at a time," he said. "Every time an athlete comes in, we're pouring our heart and souls into them."

Bartholomew pointed out a story about how one franchisee helped change his community for the better.

"One of our franchisees just recently raised over $100,000 to rebuild the inner city school weight room," he said. "Just giving back to the community, helping those athletes reach their goals."

Franchise Focus

D1 Merrillville hosted professional basketball players Jarrod Jones, Dree Gholston and Rob Howard Jr. for a workout.

Light Lifts

• 7 Easy High-Protein Meals That Aren't Chicken (GQ)

• Paige Bueckers Talks Favorite NIL Deals (Front Office Sports)

• Meet The 'Short Sleepers' Who Thrive On Just Four Hours Of Sleep (Women's Health)

D1 Daily is produced by Dom Bonvissuto & Ty Wellemeyer