Michael’s path into financial services has been anything but traditional. He earned his Master of Arts in Classical and Contemporary Text Performance from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where his studies focused on dramatic literature, production, and performance. With a professional background spanning performing arts, education, client service, and consumer banking, Michael brings a thoughtful and people-centered perspective to his work.
Before entering the financial industry, Michael built his career around connecting with people, listening closely, and communicating with care — skills that continue to shape the way he serves clients today. His experience in personal banking and customer service also gave him a firsthand look at how overwhelming the financial world can feel for many people, and how valuable it is to have someone help make it feel more clear and manageable.
Michael strongly believes his role is not to tell clients what to do, but to walk with them. To him, putting clients first means meeting people where they are, understanding what matters most to them, and helping create a path toward where they want to go. His areas of focus include budgeting, accumulation, and retirement strategies.
Growing up in Chicago with modest means, Michael understands how meaningful financial confidence can be when you are building something from the ground up. That perspective continues to drive his work and his desire to help people protect what they have earned and make informed, educated decisions with their money.
Outside of work, Michael enjoys trying new restaurants, playing guitar, and staying connected to his roots in performance as a Shakespearean actor. He is also an aspiring mountaineer and has already trekked peaks including Schiehallion, Arthur’s Seat, and Ben Nevis, with hopes of one day conquering Mont Blanc. In addition, he is involved with Restoration Inc., an organization that aims to reduce gun violence and heal trauma through community restoration.
One of his favorite quotes is from William Butler Yeats: “Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking.”
Michael is insurance licensed in Illinois.