From Rock Bottom to Real Leadership w/ Mike Barnhart
What happens when your lowest moment becomes the foundation for your greatest growth?
In this episode of Business From Scratch, Abbye sits down with Mike Barnhart, owner of Axis Fitness, to talk about the journey that reshaped his life from serving 87 months in federal prison to building a multi-location gym business rooted in discipline, character, and relentless self-development.
We unpack how adversity can become your greatest teacher, why the “hard stuff” is actually the point, and what true leadership looks like when no one is watching. Mike’s story is raw, honest, and a powerful reminder that growth isn’t accidental, it’s earned.
If you’ve ever faced a setback or questioned your next chapter, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.
Listen to the full episode now.