About True North Financial Group
Hi, I’m Gary Barney, founder of True North Financial Group. I started this firm with a clear goal: to offer hands-on, personalized financial planning that goes beyond just managing investments. Our mission is simple: make financial planning understandable and actionable, so our clients can move forward with clarity and confidence.
After earning my degree from Wayne State University, I began my career as an entrepreneur, gaining hands-on experience by building and leading businesses. I worked with local and state agencies to launch new ventures—securing funding, learning negotiation tactics, and guiding teams through both everyday challenges and unforeseen events. Along the way, I also learned the importance of managing capital wisely: setting aside reserves for rainy days, investing efficiently for future growth, and using solid accounting and forecasting to make informed business decisions. These experiences taught me the value of planning ahead, staying adaptable, and thinking strategically.
Today, I’m honored to bring that heart and experience to the families and business owners I serve—helping them feel confident, prepared, and focused on what matters most. My mission has always been to provide clear, practical support not only with investments, but also with tax planning, estate strategies, business succession, and overall financial education. Above all, I genuinely enjoy helping people. I believe financial planning goes far beyond numbers—it's about serving others and using the gifts God gave us to make a meaningful difference. Scripture reminds us of this calling: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). We each have unique talents, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to use mine to walk alongside others on their financial journey.
My life is rooted in faith, family, and purpose, and I’m proud to call St. Clair home, where I live with my wife. Together, we have four incredible children. Faith is the foundation of my life—it shapes who I am and how I show up for the people I serve. Health and fitness are more than just habits—they reflect a belief that helps me stay energized, focused, and fully engaged in life. I also stay involved in the community through the St. Clair Art Association, the St. Clair Chamber of Commerce, and as a vessel safety examiner with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. One cause especially close to my heart is supporting retired greyhounds. Our boy Brock, who we adopted through Greythounds of Eastern Michigan, is a daily reminder of how special this breed truly is. I’m a strong advocate for greyhound adoption and love helping others discover the joy these dogs can bring into a home.
These personal values—faith, service, and compassion—carry through in how I approach my work: with perspective, care, and a deep commitment to helping others live well and plan with purpose.
After earning my degree from Wayne State University, I began my career as an entrepreneur, gaining hands-on experience by building and leading businesses. I worked with local and state agencies to launch new ventures—securing funding, learning negotiation tactics, and guiding teams through both everyday challenges and unforeseen events. Along the way, I also learned the importance of managing capital wisely: setting aside reserves for rainy days, investing efficiently for future growth, and using solid accounting and forecasting to make informed business decisions. These experiences taught me the value of planning ahead, staying adaptable, and thinking strategically.
Today, I’m honored to bring that heart and experience to the families and business owners I serve—helping them feel confident, prepared, and focused on what matters most. My mission has always been to provide clear, practical support not only with investments, but also with tax planning, estate strategies, business succession, and overall financial education. Above all, I genuinely enjoy helping people. I believe financial planning goes far beyond numbers—it's about serving others and using the gifts God gave us to make a meaningful difference. Scripture reminds us of this calling: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). We each have unique talents, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to use mine to walk alongside others on their financial journey.
My life is rooted in faith, family, and purpose, and I’m proud to call St. Clair home, where I live with my wife. Together, we have four incredible children. Faith is the foundation of my life—it shapes who I am and how I show up for the people I serve. Health and fitness are more than just habits—they reflect a belief that helps me stay energized, focused, and fully engaged in life. I also stay involved in the community through the St. Clair Art Association, the St. Clair Chamber of Commerce, and as a vessel safety examiner with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. One cause especially close to my heart is supporting retired greyhounds. Our boy Brock, who we adopted through Greythounds of Eastern Michigan, is a daily reminder of how special this breed truly is. I’m a strong advocate for greyhound adoption and love helping others discover the joy these dogs can bring into a home.
These personal values—faith, service, and compassion—carry through in how I approach my work: with perspective, care, and a deep commitment to helping others live well and plan with purpose.
