Biography
Raised on a farm in small town Michigan, Barb Tobias had no idea of what life held for her. She fought her way to a college degree then stepped into the fashion world. Knowing that her career as a runway model would be short lived; she started a dog obedience school called Trainers Academy. Stories abound as she merged her fashion work with the many talented dogs in her care. Then, a 7 year stint in the corporate world left her high and dry when the company folded in the 2007 real estate crash. What should have been her sunny autumn years became a question of what now? “Reinvention” became her mantra. Barb has successfully transformed herself from farm girl, to fashion model, to influential speaker and ultimately, award winning author, columnist and thrift specialist.
“It’s not an issue of whether we’ve been tossed around in life; it’s all about finding ourselves again.” ~ Barb Tobias
Industry Expertise (3)
Professional Training and Coaching
Business Services
Women
Areas of Expertise (3)
Business
Women
Motivational
Links (1)
Testimonials (8)
Judith Briles, Founder of Author U - Award winning Author, Speaker & Book Shepherd | Various
‘WOW ‘ is what you think when Barb Tobias speaks … you’ll listen, be intrigued, amazed, and enthusiastic as you set out to find the “gold” that others have tossed. Her book, Tossed & Found, is perfect for anyone seeking bargains—be they high end or just everyday stuff. Barb has a delightful sense of humor. She’s highly recommended for any program and specializes in women-based formats.
Donna Evans, CEO of Marketing, Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce | Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce
Dear Barb, On Behalf of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, I want to thank you for speaking at our North Luncheon. It was a tremendous success and we have enjoyed wonderful feedback from attendees. We are so excited to have you speak again at our Downtown Luncheon in August. Our luncheons are a great way for members to hear an inspirational and motivational story from a woman in the community such as you. Everyone enjoyed your presentation very much. We applaud your commitment in helping to provide our members with the opportunity to form business partnerships.
Katherine Carol, Author, Coach, Speaker & Transformation Specialist w/Tango Results | Various
Professional speaker and author of Tossed & Found, Barb’s energetic and enlightening presentations drill into the core of limiting beliefs, procrastination and indecision, and exposes the culprits that rob us of our inherent magic. This engaging gal is a perfect fit anyone who wants to renew their lives or their homes.
Orvel Ray Wilson, Guerilla Selling, Author, Professional Speaker | Various
Barb Tobias brings fun, humor and innovative ideas to her entertaining and thought provoking stage. She is undeniably the mistress of innovation and insight; identifying and overcoming the obstacles that plague us all. I highly recommend her as one of the top people to hire for your next event.
Lisa Shultz, Author, Speaker & Founder of Women, Wine & Wellness | Women, Wine & Wellness
Barb Tobias, America’s “Thrift Talk” Diva, is an inspiration! She was the speaker for Women, Wine, and Wellness, and she was fantastic. Her presentation was polished, professional, interactive, entertaining, and her topic was well received and valuable to our group. I highly recommend hiring her for speaking engagements. She will exceed your expectations!
Sharlene Douthit, Founder of Financially Fit Females | Financially Fit Females & other events
Barb Tobias is a Hoot! She spoke at our Financially Fit Females meeting and was a HUGE SUCCESS … one of the largest crowds we have ever drawn! Her energy, enthusiasm and passion for home and wardrobe fashion had my guests and members on the edge of their seats! Her presentation was fun and informative and left us all with a desire to head out to the nearest thrift store and snap up some amazing bargains! We will definitely have her back to speak in the future!
Nancy Walsh, Member Services Director, Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce | Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce
Barb was our featured February luncheon speaker for the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce. She was a great motivator and shared her tricks of thriftiness. The audience was in awe of how capable she was at living so beautifully in such a frugal manner. We had so many compliments about her talk that we have booked her for our Downtown August 17th luncheon at Maggiano’s. This is one you will not want to miss! February 8, 2011
Betty Anderson, Owner, Fun Finds and Designs, Inc. | Tossed & Found Book Tour
Barb Tobias’ presentation at Fun Finds Consignments in Canton Georgia exceeded all expectations. Her new book Tossed & Found highlights her life-changing foray into the world of thrift and consignment. Her journey parallels one woman’s progression from small town farm girl, to fashion model, radio and TV personality, corporate executive to author and keynote speaker. Her message is profound and delivered in the most entertaining and thought provoking way. She brings out the “Diva” in every woman and leaves you with a smile on your face and renewed hope. She was a delight.
Event Appearances (6)
Tossed & Found
International Association of Administrative Professionals Regional Conference Double Tree - Stapleton
2011-03-12
Be Brave
eWomen Luncheon Denver Tech Center
2012-12-13
MC for Fashion Show Fundraiser
"Breast" of Colorado Englewood
2012-10-18
Be Brave
Financially Fit Females Denver
2013-02-07
Be Brave
Speaking Event Arapahoe County Library District
2012-09-08
Tossed & Found
Speaking event Arapahoe Library District
2012-10-20
Sample Talks (1)
Be Brave - Motivational Topic
Barb Tobias always hated New Year’s resolutions. Pooh-poohed goal setting. She simply charged through life bumping into walls like Ms. Pac Man. Then one year Barb wrote down and committed to one resolution … “Be Brave”. That one contract, made to herself, changed her life. She implores others to invest in its power. Her energy is infectious, inspiring people to go beyond their boundaries, to get uncomfortable, to strive and push … all the while being gentle with themselves.
Style
Availability
- Keynote
- Moderator
- Panelist
- Workshop Leader
- Host/MC
- Author Appearance
- Corporate Training
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