Podcast Episode 34: Start with Why: Michelle’s Story
by Financial Design Studio, Inc. / January 8, 2024In this episode we interviewing the CEO of FDS! Michelle shares her passion for lifelong relationships with money, what led to starting FDS, and how to start with why. What you care about will shape how you live. As financial advisors, we want to hear what matters to our clients! This shapes the plans we design.

Behind the Designs Ep. 34: Start with Why: Michelle’s Story
Take a listen right here, or head over to your favorite steaming platform!
Key Moments
1:05 Meet Michelle!
3:24 What led you to start FDS?
6:53 What gets you out of bed every morning?
16:26 What matters to you?
24:54 How to identify what matters to you?
28:48 How do you live it out through your calendar and checkbook?
34:36 What does it take to stick with your plan?
40:05 Who’s voice is worth listening to?
45:50 Closing thoughts
Links for Start with Why: Michelle’s Story
Learn more about how FDS was started in Episode 1: Designed for Life.
Stay Connected!
If you want to hear even more episodes, like this one, be sure to subscribe to the Behind the Designs podcast on your favorite streaming platform! The Behind the Designs podcast shares with you an inside perspective at how financial advisors think about certain topics. We’ll see you in the next episode.
Credits for Episode 34
Executive Producer and Host : Anna Lewis
Guest : Michelle Smalenberger, CFP®
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Financial Design Studio, Inc.
We are financial advisors in Deer Park and Barrington, IL. A team with a passion for helping others design a path to financial success — whatever success means for you. Each of our unique insights fit together to create broad expertise, complete roadmaps, and creative solutions. We have seen the power of having a financial plan, and adjusting that plan to life. The result? Freedom from worrying about the future so you can enjoy today.