Meet Tanya Barnett, wife coach and triathlete

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Photo courtesy of Tanya Barnett

Tanya Barnett is a speaker, wife coach and author of Being a Wife Just Got Real. She founded the Real Wife Movement™ to equip women with tools for creating healthy relationships.


She is a marathoner, triathlete and a book lover. She and her husband, Don, have three children.


Please describe your leadership style 

I like to lead with my team assisting with some of the decision making. When everyone feels like they are a part of something, they are more willing to give their best. I also believe in thanking people publically. In today’s world, some people just need to be acknowledged or praised for their efforts. Too often we point out the negative. I choose to do the opposite.


Finish the sentence, teamwork is important because …

Teamwork is important because one person cannot effectively do everything. Personally, I would go crazy trying to do everything. I opted to hire a virtual assistant who is amazing. We work well together and she likes to see how the finished product is changing the lives of the women we serve. Since she feels like she adds value, she gives The Real Wife Movement™ her best work. This also frees me up to work on other aspects of our movement.

What social media platforms do you engage in the most?

I’m a Twitter and Facebook chick. I use Instagram but not as much as I would like to. I tried Snapchat but I just can’t wrap my brain around it.

What professional organizations do you support?

I am a member of and support The BOSS Network, Women Veterans Interactive, The National Association of Professional Women, NAACP, Congressional Black Caucus, etc. I am also an adult Girl Scout and have been for a long time.

Describe your networking style?

I am the one who asks women what their story is. Since I love to hear about what other women are doing, I am usually the one who is listening to other women’s stories. Once they find out that I am a relationship coach, it turns into a mini coaching session no matter where I am.

Name three business leaders who inspire you.

Maggie Lena Walker was the first female bank president of any race to charter a bank in the United States.

Oprah Winfrey

Cathy Hughes

A favorite quote that motivates you?

My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. ~Maya Angelou

-Twitter handle

@RealWifeCoach

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