Jon Barnes shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Jon, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day set the tone for everything that follows. I wake up early, make coffee, and spend some time in prayer and journaling. I follow that with reading and reflection before checking in on my sales and book performance. Then I review emails and set priorities for the day. After that, I go for a run, kettlebell and weights every other day, refuel with a protein shake, and either dive into my workday or shift into “Dad mode” to get the kids to their various places. My fitness has become non-negotiable- now with 5 kids and so much life and work happening. But the difference is huge (and I’m not a big workout/sports person- I do it because I feel so much more balanced and at peace the rest of my day!)
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jon Barnes — a speaker, marketer, coach, and author of How to Become a Marketing Consultant, my third book. It’s a practical, no-nonsense guide for marketing professionals who want to launch a profitable consultancy or side hustle. After years of working in marketing, I’ve made it my mission to help others unlock their “what’s next” — especially mid-to-senior level marketing pros who are ready to strengthen their position in the market, earn what they’re worth, and navigate the onslaught of AI in a climate of high-speed change. My passion is sharing with people how to build a rock-solid business foundation so they can thrive long-term, not just chase the latest trend. Right now, I’m focused on equipping creative and marketing professionals with the confidence, clarity, and tools to create a career — and life — they actually want.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
The biggest influence on how I think about work has been my study of the Bible. It’s given me a framework that puts capitalism and entrepreneurship into perspective with the broader story of life. Work is meant to be hard — there’s challenge in it by design — but it should also be fulfilling and aligned with your gifts. It’s something we do together, in community, not just on our own. And maybe most importantly, it’s taught me that while work can be deeply rewarding, it will always try to tempt you into making it your identity. Your true self is so much more than your job title or your achievements.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely — more than once. I’ve had seasons where the financial pressure was so intense I was literally moving less than 10 cents between bank accounts just to keep them out of the red for one more day. In those moments, it would have been easy to throw in the towel and go back to something “safe.” But each time I hit that wall, I reminded myself why I started — to help people, to use my gifts fully, and to follow my calling. That purpose pulled me forward, even when it felt like I was crawling, and taught me that perseverance and grit are often the real difference between giving up and breaking through.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
One cultural value I protect at all costs is giving respect and a listening ear to everyone — young and old, rich and poor, from every walk of life. I’ve learned that the best ideas, insights, and relationships often come from unexpected places, and you only find them when you’re willing to slow down, ask questions, and truly hear people. Titles, resumes, and bank accounts don’t determine the value of someone’s perspective — curiosity and respect do.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I understand — that many people, especially those just starting out in their careers often overlook — is that business is fundamentally about relationships. People hire people they trust. Great client relationships aren’t built solely on financials and deliverables; they’re built on connection. More often than not, decisions are made emotionally first, and then facts are used to justify them. That’s just human nature. If you want to succeed long-term, focus on becoming a relational professional, not just a technically competent one.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thejonbarnes.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thatjonbarnes/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejonbarnes
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/pumthuggee
- Other: https://www.themarketingconsultant.net/
