Meet the Author
Dr. Mark L. Teague, PHD.
Husband, Working Class Advocate, Business Executive, Author.

With a farm and ranch background as a rock-solid foundation, I pursued higher education in Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University. This academic path opened doors to the corporate world, where I faced a new set of challenges and opportunities.
Throughout my career, I’ve held management and executive roles, including American Express, Toyota and Lexus Financial Services and a private equity venture. These experiences have given me a unique perspective on the power and importance of applying traditional values within modern realities.
Old America values with modern applications. This is a powerful combination that I know will serve you well. Life does not suffer fools. Do not be counted among the foolish. I believe I can help you prepare and succeed.
As an author, I’m eager to share my insights and stories with you. My book, A Working Man’s Guide: Strong Values, Strong Life, Strong Legacy, reflects lessons learned and wisdom gained along the way. Whether you’re seeking guidance, inspiration, or a fresh perspective, I believe my book will provide you with valuable takeaways.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and my story. I look forward to sharing more with you soon.
Dr. Mark L. Teague, PHD.
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“America is, and has always been, a working-class nation. We must embrace policies that reflect this truth — and when we do, we will find prosperity”
About Mark
Dr. Mark L. Teague is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, author, and advocate for America’s working class. With over three decades of experience in credit risk, operations, portfolio strategy, and leadership, his career spans top roles at major institutions like American Express, Sears Credit, Toyota Financial Services, and Barri Financial Group. He is widely known for driving innovation, measurable results, and cultural impact in both corporate and entrepreneurial environments.
Career Highlights
MT Squared Publications, LLC
Founder & Author (2022–present)
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Advocates for public policy rooted in working-class values
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Creator of AWorkingMansGuide.com and affiliated social platforms
Lone Star Munitions / Teague Tactical, LLC
Co-Founder (2015–2022)
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Small arms ammunition manufacturer based in Texas
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Built a brand grounded in American values and 2nd Amendment rights
Barri Financial Group
Chief Credit & Operating Officer (2010–2020)
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Executive team member overseeing growth strategy, operations, and credit risk
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Drove over $300M in shareholder value and established Barri Finance as a leading provider of financial services to the Hispanic community
Toyota Financial Services
National Manager, Portfolio Risk & Collections (2003–2010)
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Managed credit strategy and operations on a $61B auto loan portfolio
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Introduced data-driven risk management tools including the Delinquency Movement Matrix (DMM)
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Achieved $60M+ in annual credit loss reduction
Metris Companies
VP, Risk Management & Marketing (2002–2003)
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Oversaw a $12B consumer credit portfolio
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Generated $40M in net income from optimized marketing programs
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Reduced contingent liabilities by $50M through targeted risk strategies
Sears Credit / Sears Roebuck & Co.
Director, Portfolio Strategy & Modeling (1997–2001)
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Led $1.7B credit loss P&L on a $24B portfolio
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Developed the Acquisition Decision System (ADS) with a 5-year NPV of $71M
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Spearheaded scoring system upgrades, balance growth strategies, and collections redesign
Academic Credentials
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Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics – Oklahoma State University
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B.S. in Agricultural Business & Economics – West Texas A&M University
Professional Recognition
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Business Partner of the Year – Sears Credit
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Graduate Research Excellence Award – Oklahoma State University
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Numerous academic fellowships, scholarships, and honors
Professional Development
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Completed Leadership & Modeling coursework taught by Stanford faculty
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Participated in Gallup’s Great Managers Program
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Continued education in risk management, analytics, and executive operations