Since 1896, when his great-grandfather became the first Jewish settler in Miami, Michael and his family have been living and serving Floridians for 5 generations. When he got his first job, he remembers his dad telling him “10% in the bank, always put 10% in the bank!”. He’s carried the importance of saving and financial stability with him throughout his career. Michael is a husband to Nyrka, a father to Anya, and a dog father to Coco. He spends most weekends coaching his daughter’s soccer teams or watching her dance performances. On his ‘off’ days, Michael can be found somewhere in Florida playing golf.
Michael’s interest in finance and accounting started in high school after taking an accounting class but was cemented after an impactful conversation with the FBI during a college job fair. Discussing alternative CPA careers, like being a Special Agent in their white-collar crimes unit, encouraged Michael to continue working toward his CPA. After years of experience at a large public accounting firm, Michael realized that his real passion was being able to provide clients with one-on-one personal financial planning. The biggest reward for Michael is seeing his clients gain peace of mind of knowing their family is taken care of by saving money, building wealth, and improving their overall financial health.
Michael received his degree in Business and Economics from Lehigh University and earned his Master’s in Taxation from Florida International University. He is a Florida CPA, a CFP®, and has achieved the Personal Financial Specialist designation through the AICPA. Michael has been a speaker at FICPA’s state conference and MEGA conference, as well as several educational institutions including Florida Southern College, Southeastern University, Keiser University, and Polk State College.
Michael’s passion for education and leadership development is reflected in his community involvement. A graduate of Leadership Lakeland Class XXIX and a founding member of the youth soccer academy, Florida Tropics Academy, Michael has served or is currently serving on the boards of the Florida Southern College Masters of Accountancy Program, Florida Southern College Fraud Conference, Kiwanis Club of Lakeland, EMERGE Serves, Estate Planning Council of Polk County, FICPA – Polk County Chapter, Florida Tropics Academy, All Saints Academy, Campfire Sunshine Central Florida, AMI Kids, and Temple Emanuel.