National Boss Day: One-on-One with NFM Publisher and Owner, Terry Barga

(NASHVILLE, Tenn) — This National Boss’s Day, we’re turning the spotlight on the man who keeps Nashville inspired, informed, and moving. Terry Barga, owner and publisher of Nashville Fit Magazine is known for his relentless work ethic, creative vision, and genuine heart for the local fitness community. Terry has built more than just a magazine, he’s built a movement. Under his leadership, NFM has grown into a trusted voice for wellness, showcasing the people, places, and stories that make Music City’s fitness scene so vibrant. Today, we celebrate the boss who leads with passion, purpose, and a whole lot of hustle. We cannot wait for you to meet him!

When it became time to purchase/invest in NFM, what was the deciding factor?

Honestly? It was a gut-check moment. I looked at where fitness media was going and asked myself, “Do I want to be a passenger or do I want to drive the bus?” NFM wasn’t just a business opportunity—it was a platform. A way to elevate voices, build bridges in our community, and create something that helps people live better lives. The deciding factor wasn’t money; it was mission. I believed this brand could do more—and I was either going to watch someone else do it or roll up my sleeves and lead it.

Tell me about your own fitness and wellness background and journey?

Let’s say I’ve been on both sides of the gym floor. I’ve been the guy who needed help and the guy who gave it. My journey started with pain, like most real stories do—physical, mental, emotional. I didn’t just find fitness; I fought for it. I’ve trained, competed, recovered, and rebuilt more times than I can count. But through it all, I learned that movement is medicine, and consistency is the real flex. Fitness didn’t just change my body—it changed how I show up for life, for my family, for my business.

What does a day in the life for Terry Barga, owner and publisher of NFM, look like?

Organized chaos with a shot of espresso. Mornings start early—usually before the sun. I like to get my mind and body right before the world gets loud. From there, it’s a mix of strategy calls, content reviews, podcast interviews, gym visits, and checking in with the team. I’m a publisher, sure, but I’m also the janitor, the hype man, and sometimes the therapist. I make time for movement daily, even if it’s a walk between meetings. And I always end the day asking: “Did I push something forward today?” If the answer’s no, I go back and find a way to do it.

What is the best piece of advice to someone hoping to launch their own brand/business?

Stop waiting for perfect. Start with real. Build from there. Most people get stuck in the idea phase because they’re afraid of failing. I say—fail fast, learn faster, and surround yourself with people who’ll tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear. Your brand isn’t your logo, your color palette, or your tagline—it’s your integrity in action. Stay consistent, stay curious, and stay in the room when it gets hard. That’s where the real stuff happens.

What does the future look like for NFM?

Big. Bold. Community-driven. We’re expanding beyond the magazine into other cities/states, a radio show, TV with ads, and fractional marketing services. I want NFM to be the connective tissue for Middle Tennessee’s health and wellness scene—where ideas grow, partnerships are built, and the people doing good work finally get the spotlight they deserve. And we’re not stopping here. Chattanooga, Memphis, Atlanta—we’ve got our eyes on you. The future of NFM is impact at scale, and we’re just getting warmed up.

Connect with Terry?

Give him a follow on his Instagram and check out Nashville Fit Magazine’s page for all your advertising, marketing and branding needs. He and his team cannot wait to serve you.