Not soon after the sun rises over Texas, Todd Barnes is up at it—coffee in hand, a grateful heart, and a busy calendar, just the way he likes it. It’s this steady rhythm of faith, grit, and follow-through that’s defined the life of the entrepreneur who’s made a career out of investing in what he calls “the people business.”
“I learned early on that if you’re willing to work hard, treat folks fairly, and know how to sell— well, you won’t be broke for long,” Todd says with a grin of a quiet wisdom. That wisdom? It started back in Tyler, Texas, under the steady influence of his grandfather, a man who taught him not just how to work—but how to *care* for those who work for you. “Being an employer isn’t about a paycheck,” Todd says. “It’s about taking responsibility for people who put their trust in you.”
It’s that belief that’s driven every decision Todd has made over the last two-and-a-half decades. After earning his degree from Texas Tech, and a stint back home with his grandfather's insurance company, Todd set out on his own and entered the human capital industry—first as a reliable hand in the world of PEOs (Professional Employer Organizations), and later as a full blown entrepreneur. Payroll services, Human Resources, contract staffing, employment solutions—if it involves people, Todd’s probably led it. And led it well.
But Todd’s not one to rest on past successes, he’s always looking for ways to turn ideas into solutions. His latest venture, *The Social Hive*, was born from his talented team simply managing their own social media. During a regular team meeting, discussing the needs for updated social media marketing for one of his businesses, someone mentioned that someone on their own staff excelled in that area. “It turned out that Kristine Barrera geeked out over that sort of thing. She really understood it. So, we asked her if she’d be interested in helping out and she just lit up! We were doing reels for ourselves—nothing fancy,” Todd recalls. “But clients noticed. They started asking us to help with theirs. One thing led to another, and here we are.”
“Here” is a brand-new, 5,000-square-foot space in Prosper—laying the foundation for a state of-the-art podcast and video studio, creative suites, and the kind of laid-back vibe where innovation doesn’t feel like work. The Social Hive is already buzzing—serving clients hungry for authentic, engaging content. But true to form, Todd sees it as more than a business. “It’s a platform to grow people, to develop their gifts and help them tell their stories.”
The Barnes Group comprises Barnes Employment of Texas, Barnes HCM (Human Capital Management), Barnes Medical Staffing, Barnes Contract Management, Route 2 Motoring, West Range Capital and the aforementioned Social Hive. A visionary with a can-do mindset makes for a dynamic skill set, eager to dig in and see what happens. His path has not always been as easily paved path to success. Life has had its lessons, for sure but Todd definitely feels what he calls God's Favor. “I am not sure what I’ve done to deserve it, but God has certainly shown me
Off the clock, which is rare for this self-professed workaholic, Todd is just as grounded. He’s been married to his bride, Amy for 20 years—a partnership built on faith, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, they’ve raised two active kids who make them proud. When he's not enjoying his family, you’ll find Todd out at the ranch, riding his Harley, or enjoying a slow cigar on a Texas porch.
“I love the outdoors. I love horsepower—whether it’s a Quarterhorse, V8 or a Harley. And I love time with my people,” Todd says. “Simple as that.”
That simplicity—rooted in values, not flash—is what makes Todd such a respected figure in his community. But don’t mistake “simple” for small-minded. His heart is big, and it shows in the causes he supports. From breast cancer awareness in honor of his mother, to the prevention of human trafficking, Todd doesn’t just write checks—he shows up. He supports the Boot Campaign to care for families left behind by war. And as a Founding Director of Rodeo Celina, he’s committed to preserving local heritage and bringing the community together. As a Navy brat he looks forward to riding that beautiful shiny Harley with the local Patriot Guard Riders to honor fallen service members.
Being active within the community is deeply meaningful to Todd Barnes, as if being CEO of The Barnes Group was not enough. "You know, helping people find employment, or finding the right employees for companies. As a Founding Director of Rodeo Celina, Todd lives what he believes—that giving back to the community and building a stronger future for others, especially youth, is simply the right thing to do. He has made this belief a foundational principle in how The Barnes Group conducts business. In addition to his work with Rodeo Celina, Todd has also served on the board of the Greater Celina Chamber of Commerce and remains an active member there as well as the Little Elm and Prosper Chambers of Commerce.
Ask Todd what being a gentleman means in today’s world, and he won’t talk about tailored suits, social status, or formal etiquette. “Sure, open the door for ladies and elders, know how to act in public and not embarrass yourself or your family,” he chuckles. “But being a gentleman? It’s more about how you treat people… with respect and kindness. It’s putting others first. It’s a lifestyle.”
In a world where success is often measured by dollars and flash, Todd Barnes reminds us that the true mark of a man lies in his consistency, his character, and the care he gives to others.
From the boardroom to the backwoods, Todd walks the talk. He builds things—businesses, relationships, trust. And he leaves everything just a little better than he found it.
Now that’s a gentleman.
"Success isn’t about money—it’s about how you care for those who put their trust in you."
"In a world where success is often measured by dollars and flash, true greatness lies in faith, hard work, and in leaving everything a little better than you found it."