Josh Varner is a trauma-informed speaker, and author, passionate about helping people better understand stress, trauma, mental health, and healing. Over the course of his career, Josh has delivered more than 500 engaging presentations across the country, equipping educators, healthcare professionals, parents, and organizations with practical, science-backed strategies to support emotional well-being and resilience. Josh’s professional experience spans community-based mental health, school counseling, and leading programs for at-risk youth, giving him firsthand insight into the lasting impact of childhood trauma and chronic stress.

Through his work, he has helped thousands better understand how experiences shape behavior, relationships, and emotional health. Known for blending research, storytelling, humor, and practical tools, Josh specializes in helping people understand how stress affects the mind and body—and what it truly takes to move from survival mode toward healing and thriving. Whether speaking to educators, supporting families, or writing about emotional well-being, Josh’s mission remains the same: to help people create healthier, more connected lives by understanding the needs of both the mind and body. Josh lives in Missouri with his wife and three children, where life is often busy, meaningful, and occasionally chaotic—providing plenty of real-life reminders that thriving is a practice, not perfection.