Whitfield Bailey

05 Oct Whitfield Bailey

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now?

I don’t want to see Knoxville turn into the next Nashville! I cringe when I hear people say that. I would like to see our outdoor adventure community expand. We have a great community and have not outgrown our city. I sincerely believe that too much growth, too fast is not a good thing and cities have to be careful about their infrastructure.

What are you reading that is on your nightstand?

Born to Run, Co-Piloting, The Untethered Soul

What is your favorite Knoxville memory?

There are many, the first Boomsday, winning the ’96 Webb Football State Championship my senior year, both of my children were born in Knoxville, marrying my second wife in my parents’ yard,

What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor?

My Grandfather and parents have always taught me to give back to my community. Whether it be your time, money or both time and money. The significance of giving back cannot be understated and the only way a community improves upon itself is the people living in it, have a stake in it. I don’t think there are truer words.

What advice would you give to your 16 year old self?

Work and study harder in school, have better judgement as you get into your late teens and 20’s. Make sure the woman you want to marry is the right one and if you have doubts, walk away! Allow yourself to be vulnerable to learning new things and learn from past mistakes.