NASHVILLE, Tenn. — What started as a shared passion for fitness and community has grown into one of the most anticipated wellness events in the region.

In a recent episode of the Ground Up Podcast, hosts Terry Barga and Roy Mangrum sit down with Derek Shelton and Trevor Baker, co-owners of the River City Fit Expo, to discuss how the event came to life and what attendees can expect from the rapidly growing fitness experience.

Shelton and Baker share the story behind launching the River City Fit Expo, explaining how their long-standing friendship naturally evolved into a business partnership. What began as conversations around fitness and community quickly turned into a clear vision: to create an event that unites fitness, wellness, competition, and connection under one roof.

Throughout the episode, the duo breaks down the intentional planning behind the expo—from curating vendors and athlete competitions to designing interactive experiences for both fitness enthusiasts and industry professionals. The River City Fit Expo aims to be more than just a trade show; it’s built to be an immersive environment where attendees can engage with brands, learn from experts, and experience the culture of fitness firsthand.

Barga and Mangrum bring their own expertise to the conversation as co-owners of the Music City Fit Expo, offering insight into the challenges and realities of building and scaling a successful fitness event. Together, the four discuss the behind-the-scenes work that goes into sustaining an expo, balancing growth with authenticity, and building something that lasts.

The episode offers a candid look at entrepreneurship within the wellness industry, highlighting the importance of relationships, adaptability, and community-driven vision.

For anyone interested in fitness expos, event production, entrepreneurship, or the business of wellness, the conversation delivers practical insight from leaders who have truly built their brands from the ground up.

This episode of the Ground Up Podcast is presented by OptimizeU, U.S. Navy, B2 Wellness Suites, Level Wellness, ChillN, and Well Pro Thrive.

Listeners are encouraged to like, subscribe, and share for more conversations centered on fitness, business, and building something meaningful.

New episodes drop every Wednesday. 

Author: Tala Shatara