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September 8, 2025Turning Heritage Into Prosperity – One Kitchen at a Time – Isabella Santos, Abuela’s Kitchen
September 8, 2025"Changing Lives Daily Through Health and Fitness"
Jemerris Giles, The 55 Gym
What started in his parents' two-car garage has blossomed into a business that's changing his community from the inside out.
Jemerris Giles, the powerhouse behind The 55 Gym show's how an an ex-athlete's passion turned him into a full-time gym owner that has been transforming lives for fifteen years.
Jemerris embodies the spirit of perseverance and entrepreneurship. Despite facing injuries that ended his college athletic career, he channeled his love for fitness into something bigger than himself.
"His journey is one of faith, determination, and an unwavering commitment to giving back to his community, especially showing minorities that they too can be successful entrepreneurs."
Read on for our full interview with Jemerris, where he shares his inspiring journey from garage trainer to gym owner, the challenges he's overcome, and his vision for expanding his impact across communities.
Your Business Journey and Insights...
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early on, and how did you overcome them?
Just continuing to find different ways to build and improve the brand without seeming like I'm replicating something that's already been done. I'm big on finding different ways to grow my business each day and impact my clients and community, but also just doing more and doing what others won't do to get further ahead.
Describe a defining moment or turning point for you and your business.
Like I mentioned, it was me quitting my 9-to-5, working for someone else, and going full-time. That moment of growing my business and allowing God to use me and my purpose to grow and blossom more into an owner and fitness trainer - that was the real turning point.
What's one lesson you've learned through experience that you wish you had known earlier?
You can't rush success, and timing is everything when you are growing something that's bigger than you. That's something I really wish I had understood earlier in my journey.
What advice do you have for someone just starting out?
Always give your all and fully go all in on your grind in order to see the reward in the end. You can't half-step it - you've got to be fully committed.
How do you approach personal and professional growth?
I honestly start my week off each week with just fasting and self-reflection, just allowing myself to grow my mind, body, and spiritual mindset to attack all things. But also allow God to speak to me so I can be the best version of myself for me and those I encounter.
Community and Impact
Who has influenced your journey?
My biggest influence is my family and my community, hands down. Without them, I wouldn't be here and doing what I'm doing.
Why do you feel community is important in business? Is there a story you can tell us about this?
I've always been raised to give back time and knowledge every chance I get. So every chance I get, I'm always going to give wisdom and knowledge back to the next generation, but also keep my ears open to wisdom and knowledge to continue to grow. Community is everything because we lift each other up.
What impact do you want to have?
No matter what, I'm always going to help others. No matter how big or small the situation is, I'm always here to support and show genuine love and see others win. That's what it's all about for me.
Future Goals and Vision
What's next for you?
Opening more gyms and giving back more to my family and communities. I want to do more mentorships and invest in other businesses, opening up more opportunities for those around me.
How do you see the industry evolving, and where do you want to fit within that future?
I'm honestly just a person who wants to continue to grow and be the best I can be - to be the face of the Southside and put those in position to prosper. But also travel and speak more about my journey, open up other gyms in other states, and possibly create some impactful TV shows about business and fitness.
What's something unique or special about your journey that you'd like to highlight?
I'm just honestly a person who's been through the ups and downs in business and in life, but I continue to grow and persevere daily to grow and just allow God to bless me and guide my path to success. It's been a real journey of faith and determination.
Are there specific achievements, awards, or recognitions you'd like us to mention?
I'm a Master Fitness Trainer and I'm a Licensed Physical Therapist. I'm also a Certified Nutritionist, and I have a Doctoral Degree in Physical Science. I've been featured in multiple branding magazines like Voyage ATL, Shoutout Atlanta, and Bold Journey, just to name a few. I've also done multiple podcast interviews with "What's In My Bag," "Pay To Play TV," and "Voices Of The Village." These accomplishments represent years of hard work and dedication to my craft and my community.
Lastly, how can people reach you?
Contact Details:
The best way to reach me is through email at jemerrisgiles@yahoo.com or by phone at 770-841-2633
You can also connect with me on social media:
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Business Instagram: @The55Gym
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Personal Instagram: @Dr.JayGiles
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Facebook: Jemerris Giles
Whether you're looking to transform your fitness journey or just want to connect, I'm always here to help and support others in their goals.
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