As the Founder + CEO of Valve+Meter Performance Marketing, Marcia Barnes knows a thing or two about leading and serving. This woman of influence has made a career out of reinventing herself and helping others become the best version of themselves. Born as a farmer’s daughter in southeast Indiana, Marcia learned many life lessons on the family farm. “I discovered that ability, combined with a strong work ethic, has transferred to my business and personal life,” quips Marcia. “These lessons helped me move from occasional states of brokenness, poverty and debt to health, confidence and success. Because of this, I consistently reinvent myself using these fundamental tools and I have a passion for helping others do same.” Marcia has a rich history in leading and serving performance-based marketing organizations with nationwide impact. In addition to leading multiple marketing agencies, she has received notable recognition for her leadership as President and CEO at Indianapolis-based Defender Direct (now called DEFENDERS). Over the course of her 14 year tenure with the company, Defender Direct experienced exponential growth from $2MM in annual revenue to more than $400MM. Marcia believes everyone has a ‘here to there’ story unfolding in their lives, so she focuses her business leadership and personal stewardship on efforts to help others thrive. “As a Christian, I think my role is less about telling others what to believe, and more about showing them what believers do.” Marcia lives in Indianapolis and serves on many local boards including Truth at Work, St. Vincent Hospital Foundation and Elevate Indianapolis. She is passionate about youth and mission work and enjoys reading, golf and running.