Jeremy L. Spratling, known as "J," hails from Talladega, Alabama, where his mother and grandmother instilled in him the values of entrepreneurship and ethics. After high school, he briefly considered the Air Force but instead took a music scholarship to Alabama State University (ASU). Jeremy later served in the Alabama Army National Guard for six years while pursuing a degree.

Transferring to Auburn University at Montgomery to major in Economics, he balanced both work in the financial services sector and academics. Inspired by his bank president’s career path, Jeremy graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor’s in Economics and further honed his skills at the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University in 2004. With over 15 years in financial services, his expertise spans roles in financial planning, commercial banking, and private wealth management, along with multiple professional licenses.