What I Stand For:
My life’s passion is helping people, from assisting clients in solving problems and reaching their goals to serving on charitable boards, mentoring younger people, being an active Rotarian and supporting our company’s various charitable activities. I specialize in helping my clients achieve their vision of an ideal life by acting as a resource for honest, accurate information, perhaps even helping them think differently about life, and encouraging effective implementation of their life choices.
Outside of Work, You’ll Find Me:
My wife Sandy and I have four children (plus their spouses) and nine natural grandchildren, plus two more from a family merger. I enjoy cooking, grilling, swimming, golf, tennis, pickleball, socializing with friends, hanging out with my kids and grands as well as experiencing the world through international travel (33 countries so far). I have completed 16 marathons across the world, including one in Antarctica.
Favorite Quote:
One of Michael’s favorite quotes, attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt, encapsulates his philosophy: “Happiness is not a goal…it’s a by-product of a life well lived.”
Professional Affiliations:
Michael actively contributes to various professional organizations and initiatives. He serves on the Review Committee for the Center for Fiduciary Studies, a division of fi360, Inc. Michael has held leadership positions in the Kansas City Chapter of the Financial Planning Association, including President and Vice President of Education and Training. Additionally, he has been an adjunct faculty member for the College for Financial Planning and the University of Missouri at Kansas City. Michael has also been involved in the Kansas City Chapter of the Institute of Certified Financial Planners and served on the advisory board for the National Committee of the International Association for Financial Planning.
Education and Certifications:
With a commitment to professional excellence, Michael holds several certifications, including:
- CFP® – CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional
- ChFC® – Chartered Financial Consultant®
- AIFA® – Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst
In the Community:
Beyond his professional endeavors, Michael remains deeply engaged in community service. He has been an active Rotarian since 1995, contributing as a Paul Harris Society Member and a Benefactor. Michael serves on the board of the Institute for International Medicine and has been involved with organizations such as the International Association of Advisors in Philanthropy, St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf, Downey Side Adoption Agency, and SAFEHOME. His commitment to community leadership was recognized when he was selected for the Leadership Collier Class of 2020, a program dedicated to addressing current societal and economic challenges.
In the Media:
Michael is a recognized expert in the financial industry, frequently providing insights and commentary for national publications and books. He authored the book “Searcy on Educated Investing” and continues to share his expertise through guest columns in local and national publications. Michael’s contributions have earned him recognition as a “Five Star Wealth Professional” in 2012, 14, 15, and 2017-2024.
