When you understand that it’s not how much money you make but how much money you keep, then you will be firmly on your way to a solid financial future. As a financial planner with Couch and Russell, Michael Smith focuses on educating and planning with clients to ensure that they have the best financial future possible. With almost a decade of experience in the industry, Michael has built an exemplary practice through attentive listening skills, understanding investment strategies, and conscientiously managing risk and client expectations.
Michael is a native of Lubbock, later moving with his family to Fort Worth. He learned at a very early age the values of strong character and hard work. At the age of 16, Michael was the victim of a tragic traffic accident, where he suffered severe injuries and was paralyzed for life. This event was life-changing for him. Instead of looking back at how life was, he energetically embraced the future and how amazing his life could be. He quickly learned to adapt his drive and energies towards the future by attending the University of Texas at Arlington, where he completed his bachelor’s degree in finance and earned numerous honors and awards.
Drawn to the financial industry and the vision of making a positive change in people’s lives, he interned with the Defense Contract Management Agency, where he served his country through civil service. Michael began his professional career in financial services, where he cut his teeth with Edward Jones. Throughout his early service, he worked diligently to be the most knowledgeable advisor possible while honing his client service skills. His hard work quickly paid off as he became a fully licensed advisor and grew his book of business to over 150 clients with over $10M in assets.
His hard work, dedication, and focus on client relationships earned him his current role with Couch and Russell. Michael is actively engaged with a full portfolio of clients and assets under management of over $150M. He especially enjoys working with the 55+ market and small business entrepreneurs, guiding their financial futures.
Michael also devotes a significant part of his time to giving back to his community. Because of his life-changing experiences, Michael actively seeks out other accident victims who suffer paralysis, offering his time, experience, and mentorship to show them what an amazing future they can have ahead of them and how to negotiate the challenges of their situations.
Michael also serves the community of Burleson through the Chamber of Commerce as a member and ambassador. That work also carries over to the City of Burleson, where he serves on the Advisory Committee on People with Disabilities, whose goal is to advise and guide city planning efforts to ensure appropriate access to facilities as the city grows.
With Couch and Russell, he gives back to the community through various sponsorships, community functions, and charitable events. In his free time, Michael enjoys spending time with his loving wife Joanna and their German Shepherd, Franklin. He is an avid poker player, movie buff, foodie, and travel enthusiast.