We recently had the chance to connect with Joe Coursey and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Joe, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Simplified Training Solutions, my online and in-person coaching business, is bringing me joy because it aligns deeply with my purpose and passions. I’m creating something meaningful—helping others grow, improve, and simplify their journey to success. It allows me to share my expertise in a way that feels authentic and impactful. The process of building it up, watching it evolve, and connecting with clients both online and face-to-face is fulfilling. I’m not just building a business—I’m trying to build a legacy, and that sense of growth, alignment, and contribution is a powerful source of my joy. lately.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Joe Coursey, owner of Simplified Training Solutions, an online and in-person coaching business based around the Dickson and Fairview area. I offer customized training programs and coaching for a wide range of clients—from those seeking general fitness and wellness to competitive strength athletes aiming to reach elite levels.
With over a decade of experience in powerlifting and a 2,210lb total in competition (903.8 squat, 507.1 bench, 826.7 deadlift), my passion for lifting began at 14 and has evolved into a purpose-driven career. While many know me for powerlifting, I coach clients of all backgrounds, building personalized strategies to help them look, feel, and perform their best—safely and effectively.
What brings me joy in this journey is the ability to truly impact lives. Whether it’s helping someone feel stronger and more confident or guiding an athlete to a new PR, the fulfillment comes from watching people transform. My approach is grounded in adaptability, continuous learning, and a commitment to giving each client the best experience possible.
I currently hold a NASM-Corrective Exercise Specialist certification and am continuing my education with certifications in Sports Nutrition and Performance Enhancement. My goal is simple: help others reach theirs through smart, sustainable training.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My wife, Samantha, has been one of the biggest driving forces behind both my personal growth and the evolution of Simplified Training Solutions. As a Senior Director in home health and hospice, her work ethic is second to none—and being around that level of dedication challenged me to level up in my own way.
In the past, I struggled with self-doubt and perfectionism, unsure of where or how to begin building the life and business I envisioned. Samantha not only believed in me—she helped me recognize my strengths and, just as importantly, my weaknesses, so I could improve and move forward with confidence.
Her support and belief in my ability to impact others helped me shift my mindset and truly lean into the mission behind Simplified Training Solutions. Her work ethic bled into mine, and that’s what ultimately pushed the envelope to get this business moving in the direction we always knew it could go.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Fear of the unknown and the “what-ifs.” I think those are two things many people struggle with—especially entrepreneurs. There’s no real “job security,” your reputation is always on the line, and you’re influencing people’s lives—not just in the gym, but outside of it as well.
That fear held me back a bit when I first started out. But as I began to find myself and grow, it transformed into a passion I didn’t fully realize was there.
I believe now, that fear has subsided and inspired me to take action against the unknown and the what-ifs. Making it somewhat exciting rather than fearful.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Getting fast results or finding a quick fix for your physique is still one of the biggest lies in the fitness industry today.
When I first started, all I wanted was to look like the guys in Flex magazine. But what I didn’t realize at the time was that there were some “special supplements” involved—lol. Still, I put in the work. I cleaned up my eating, added a few basic supplements to support it, and trained relentlessly.
Time—that word—is so overlooked nowadays. It takes time to go from A to B to C and beyond. Even with the best supplements, training plans, or “shortcuts,” the truth is, nothing replaces hard work and consistency.
I think we all need to slow down and set realistic expectations for what our bodies can do in the time we give them. It’s not about the destination—it’s about the journey.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
What will always remain are my integrity, values, and morality—being a good person not just to others, but to myself as well.
I take pride in my dedication, my commitment to pursuing hard but realistic goals, and the respect I’ve earned from my peers. My role, my name, and material possessions don’t define me—and they never will.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://simplifiedtrainingsolutions.net/
- Instagram: @simplifiedtrainingsolutions
Image Credits
Samantha Coursey
