Episode 56: Start with Why: Steve’s Story
by Financial Design Studio, Inc. / November 27, 2024In this episode, we interview Steve Smalenberger, the CFO and tax specialist at FDS. Get to know the man behind the scenes as he talks about his experiences caddying, starting his own company, and training new accountants.
Take a listen right here, or head over to your favorite steaming platform!
Related Links
Episode 34: meet Michelle the CEO
Episode 42: meet Trevore, the COO
Episode 47: meet Rob, the CIO
Timestamps
1:28 What’s your role at FDS?
8:53 How did you get into accounting?
15:08 Why is golf so impactful in your story?
21:35 What were your early experiences as an accountant like?
29:27 How did you get into tax planning?
37:07 Why did you decide to start your own business?
43:26 Why do you keep doing what you do?
52:57 Bonus question: what are your favorite golf courses?
Credits for Episode 56
Host: Michelle Smalenberger, CFP®
Guest: Steve Smalenberger, EA
Executive Producer: Anna Lewis
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 money.
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule a quick call with our financial advisors.
Recommended Reading
Ep 75: How to Decide When to Move into a Retirement Community
In this episode, Michelle interviews Royce on the process of downsizing, picking the community, and what her family's experience has been.
Ep 74: Is Your Marriage Ready for Retirement?
In this episode, Michelle interviews Dave and Diane about how they built their finances together and are now preparing to retire together.
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.