Age: 31
Occupation: Chick-fil-A owner/operator
Email: isaac.freeman@cfafranchisee.com
Education: Bachelor of Arts, public relations, Middle Tennessee State University
Family: Wife, Abby; son, Oliver, 4; daughter, Lily, 2
Affiliations/community activities: Springfield Sunrise Rotary Club, president; member of Cherry Hills Church
What is your guiding principle in life?
To glorify Jesus Christ by serving others, promoting growth and providing care.
What led you to your career?
I began working at Chick-fil-A at 16 years old in Tennessee. I worked from 2012 to 2019 in one restaurant, then worked for Chick-fil-A Inc. until 2022 when I was given the franchise opportunity in Springfield.
What would you like your life to look like in five or 10 years?
I’d like to see our restaurant continue to provide great experiences for our guests and provide great careers for people in our community. I hope that we can continue to raise our children in Springfield and plant firm roots here.
What would you like to give back to your community?
My hope is that I serve the Springfield community through great food and service each time they visit us. I hope every person who comes to our restaurant feels a sense of belonging and individual care. My goal is to care for my team members to help them reach their own goals, so that they lead and enrich our community as well as their own lives.
What do you wish your younger self had known when you started on this path?
Focus on getting 1 percent better each day. If that’s the goal, you’ll reach places you never think you could.
What has been your greatest professional achievement?
Owning and operating Chick-fil-A White Oaks is the greatest achievement and honor I’ve had in my professional career.
What’s the worst career advice you’ve ever received?
“Selling chicken might not be for you.”
This article appears in July SBJ 2026.