Available to book

Speaker, journalist & ICF coach

Marcus Barnes

Mental Health

Creativity

Transform storytelling and leadership communication with Marcus Barnes, speaker, journalist and ICF coach-in-training. Marcus works with executives and teams to unlock creativity, enhance digital presence and drive personal growth, delivering expertise featured in Forbes, The Guardian and Cambridge University Press.

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Trusted by Forbes, The Guardian, Cambridge University Press

Marcus Barnes

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

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Instant quote

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No upfront fee

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Vetted speaker

Marcus Barnes's biography

Journalist

Author

Music Business

At a glance

A seasoned industry professional with two decades experience as a journalist, copywriter, editor, and author.
Author of "Around The World In 80 Raves" and "Around The World In 80 Record Stores"
Has been published in Forbes, The Guardian, The Independent and TimeOut

Marcus Barnes is a highly respected journalist, copywriter, author, and ICF coach-in-training, with over two decades of experience shaping narratives in leading global publications. An interviewer and public speaker, he has been published in Cambridge University Press, Thames & Hudson, Forbes, The Guardian, The Observer, The Independent, TimeOut, and many more. Beyond his media career, Marcus has spent over a decade studying and applying self-development techniques—integrating writing, storytelling, and neuroscience-backed coaching methods to help individuals and teams gain clarity, shift their mindset, unlock creativity, and enhance communication. Through thoughtfully designed sessions, tailored coaching, speaking engagements, and bespoke workshops, Marcus helps professionals and executives master writing as a transformational tool—whether for refining storytelling, amplifying digital presence, enhancing leadership communication, or driving personal growth.

Topics, sessions and talks

The Write Way To Boost Mental Clarity And Wellbeing

Many people struggle with writing, believing they’re “not good at it.” But the truth is, writing is a universally powerful tool for processing thoughts, organising ideas and enhancing mental clarity. In this session, Marcus Barnes walks participants through proven, practical writing techniques designed to reduce overwhelm, enhance focus and improve emotional resilience. Attendees will leave with a renewed confidence in writing and the ability to use it as a strategic tool for wellbeing and self-leadership.

Storytelling for Influence

Great leaders, brands and professionals don’t just communicate - they connect. In this session, Marcus Barnes breaks down the core principles of high-impact storytelling, helping participants refine their personal or business narratives to engage, persuade and inspire. Through interactive exercises and real-world examples, attendees will learn how to structure compelling stories, master messaging and elevate their communication skills to command attention.

Communicate With Confidence And Precision As A Leader

In today’s fast-paced world, clarity is power. This session with Marcus Barnes explores how effective written communication - from emails to reports to thought leadership content - can set professionals apart. Marcus shares frameworks for clear, concise and compelling writing, helping leaders and teams increase their influence, avoid miscommunication and drive better decision-making. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to enhance their written presence and executive communication.

Using Writing To Shift Mindset And Encourage Growth

In this session, Marcus Barnes teaches participants how to identify, deconstruct and reframe limiting beliefs through the power of writing. By using narrative-shifting techniques and affirmations, attendees will transform negative self-talk into growth-oriented, empowering stories. Through practical writing exercises, individuals will reprogram their mindset, gaining the tools needed to boost confidence, overcome self-doubt and unlock personal growth.

Unlock Innovation And Problem-Solving Through Writing

Writing isn’t just for communication - it’s a gateway to breakthrough thinking and problem-solving. This interactive session explores how writing can spark creativity, generate new ideas and unlock innovative solutions. With Marcus Barnes, participants will engage in guided exercises designed to shift perspective, challenge assumptions, spark new concepts and cultivate idea generation - a vital skill for entrepreneurs, executives and creative professionals.

Why we recommend booking Marcus

Marcus Barnes equips teams and individuals with a fresh, high-impact approach to communication, creativity and self-leadership through the power of writing. His extensive background in journalism, coaching and self-development makes him a dynamic, engaging speaker for corporate and professional audiences.

Check Marcus's availability

Trusted by Forbes, The Guardian, Cambridge University Press

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What topics does Marcus Barnes specialise in?

Marcus Barnes specialises in discussing storytelling, writing and journalism, sparking creativity and more.

What is Marcus Barnes's speaking style like?

Marcus delivers insightful and engaging sessions, blending storytelling with coaching techniques. His workshops empower individuals and teams, enhancing communication and fostering personal growth through tailored, transformative experiences.

How can I book Marcus Barnes for my next event?

Email marcus.barnes@getapeptalk.com or call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience. As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure Marcus Barnes for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Marcus Barnes's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Marcus Barnes directly.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. We work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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Yes. PepTalk books commercial podcast guests every week of the year. A high-profile voice can boost your podcast's reach and deliver ideas to your audience at scale. Fees typically start from £1,200 / $1,500, depending on the expert. Our network includes bestselling authors, industry leaders, and cultural figures who have appeared on leading global podcasts — and many host their own. Whether you want bold insights, candid stories, or deep expertise, we'll help you find the right guest to elevate your show. Contact us today to book your next podcast guest.

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Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

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