Christopher McClintock’s journey into business ownership has been marked by one thing: a passion for people. After nearly two decades of running a successful fitness business, McClintock transitioned into a new venture with Comfort Keepers®, a leading national provider of senior home care services. Today, his expansion into Chattanooga and the broader Tennessee market is a testament to his entrepreneurial drive and passion for improving lives.
A Journey of Self-Made Success
McClintock’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2003 when he founded Personal Best Fitness, a personal training studio in Brentwood, Tennessee. “I bootstrapped this start-up and managed all operations, including marketing, accounting, cleaning, answering phones, training and hiring — occasionally stopping for sleep,” McClintock said. His dedication to his business and community helped the gym thrive, and he eventually ran it with the support of a strong team.
However, after 20 years in the fitness industry, McClintock started to look for new opportunities. His venture into commercial real estate brought him face-to-face with a home health care business for sale, which immediately piqued his interest. “It reminded me of what I was doing for so many years as a fitness coach — helping people,” McClintock said. This passion for community service and desire for a new challenge led him to Comfort Keepers.
The Decision To Join Comfort Keepers
In January 2023, McClintock purchased a Comfort Keepers franchise in Nashville. “The team was already strong when I took over because the business has been built with proven systems that help franchisees succeed,” he said.
Comfort Keepers' hands-on approach to franchising resonated deeply with McClintock. “The team at Comfort Keepers is truly invested in helping franchisees grow,” he said. “They have every resource under the sun to help you expand in any area you want to improve in. They aren’t overbearing, but they are incredibly supportive.”
Expanding in Chattanooga and Beyond
This year, McClintock’s expansion into Chattanooga has been a significant milestone in his Comfort Keepers journey. “Chattanooga was a green space for Comfort Keepers, and it was the perfect opportunity for me to make my mark in the market,” McClintock said. He also leveraged Comfort Keepers’ brand-wide Pinnacle Project, which aimed to sell corporate territories to franchisees, making room for growth in areas like Knoxville.
Since acquiring the business, McClintock has expanded his footprint significantly throughout Tennessee. “The team in Middle Tennessee was so strong that it allowed me to look up and identify new opportunities,” McClintock said. The success of his expansion has been built on the solid foundation established by Comfort Keepers’ proven systems and strong team members.
A Passion for Giving Back
Beyond business, McClintock is passionate about giving back to his community. Over the years, he has founded and organized community events, races, and triathlons, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities. As head coach for the Tennessee Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s “Team In Training,” he helped raise nearly $20 million for cancer research. He has also participated in over 80 marathons and triathlons, including an Ironman and the Boston Marathon while raising funds for causes like Alzheimer’s and ALS.
“Being able to positively impact others, whether through fitness, home care, or charitable work, has always been what drives me,” McClintock said. “Comfort Keepers allows me to continue that mission, but now I’m helping people differently.”
The Comfort Keepers Difference
For McClintock, Comfort Keepers is more than just a business — it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on his community. “Comfort Keepers is the perfect mix for someone like me,” he said. “It offers proven systems and a supportive network, but it also allows for personal growth and independence. You get the support you need, but you still have the autonomy to shape your own business and impact.”
His experience as a fitness business owner has equipped him with the resilience and determination necessary for success. Yet, he finds that being part of the Comfort Keepers network has been a game-changer.
“I no longer feel like I’m on an island,” McClintock said. “The relationships with other franchisees and business owners have been invaluable. We share best practices, cheer each other on, and know we’re all in this together.”
Looking Ahead
As McClintock continues to expand his Comfort Keepers franchise, he remains focused on his community impact.
“We’re growing because we’re making a real difference in people’s lives,” he said. “At the end of the day, that’s what drives us — the ability to serve and support others.”
With a proven business model, extensive support network, and a strong sense of community, Comfort Keepers provides the perfect platform for entrepreneurs like McClintock to thrive and expand.