Tony Barnes

I’m Tony Barnes, and my journey has been anything but ordinary. I’m an Army veteran turned corporate coach, speaker, and author, and my life has been shaped by both the trials I’ve faced and the lessons I’ve learned. At my core, I believe in resilience, authenticity, and the power of transformation.

My story began in the U.S. Army, where I learned discipline, leadership, and how to face adversity head-on. Those years weren’t just about service; they were about shaping my character. Leading teams in high-stakes situations taught me what it means to make decisions under pressure, communicate effectively, and remain adaptable no matter the circumstances. Those lessons became my foundation—not just for surviving, but for thriving.

When I transitioned to civilian life, it wasn’t easy. Like many veterans, I faced a new battlefield—this time, within myself. I wrestled with self-doubt and the challenges of finding my purpose outside of the military. But I was determined not to let my past define me. Instead, I used it as fuel to rebuild, redefine, and redirect my life toward something meaningful.

My corporate career gave me the opportunity to lead diverse teams and grow professionally. But it was during this time that I realized my true calling: helping others unlock their potential. I saw too many people stuck—limited by their own “mind bullies,” those internal voices of doubt, fear, and insecurity. I knew what that felt like because I’d been there myself. And I knew I could help.

That’s when I decided to shift gears. I left the corporate world to become a full-time coach, dedicating my life to guiding others toward sustainable change. My approach is straightforward and practical because transformation isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about doing the work. I combine the discipline and focus I learned in the Army with a deep understanding of the emotional hurdles we all face.

This philosophy is what inspired me to write Do The Work: Conquer Your Mind Bullies & Transform Your Life. The book is personal because it’s my story too. It’s packed with the same strategies I’ve used to overcome my own obstacles and help countless clients do the same. I wrote it like I coach—direct, compassionate, and full of actionable steps.

Today, whether I’m working with individuals, speaking to audiences, or writing, my mission is the same: to empower people to break free from what’s holding them back. I believe everyone has the capacity to transform their life, but it takes commitment, courage, and, most importantly, doing the work.

My journey isn’t just about where I’ve been—it’s about where I’m going and who I can help along the way. If you’re ready to face your challenges head-on and step into your fullest potential, I’m here to walk that journey with you. Let’s do the work together.