I’m Steven Schlegel and I founded our firm in 2005, but there’s a lot more to my story. I was born in Amarillo, Texas, and am proud to have lived in Texas ever since. While I own a shotgun I would much rather be taking aim with a 9-iron on a golf course. Glad we have Brent around here to hunt and fish for us if we get hungry.
I am married to my wonderful wife, Jamie. We have two amazing boys, Luke and Landon. When you have a last name as fun as Schlegel, you sigh with relief when you realize you can pass that spelling challenge on to the world for another generation.
Even in high school, I wanted to be a financial advisor (fun guy, huh?). Pursuing that goal, I graduated from Abilene Christian University with degrees in accounting and finance. After working for other firms and gaining valuable experience, I left a larger group to find the independence to do what is best for each client, without other pressure. I have now been in this profession for more than 20 years. Along the way, I became a Certified Public Accountant and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.
I do love numbers and investments, but if that is where my interest stopped, I would have stayed in the accounting profession. Or even better, I would have become an actuary! What I like about the numbers is how they represent someone’s life. There is so much at stake in all the critical money decisions we must make. There is an amazing difference in the quality of life for the person who has a well-executed financial plan, avoids common investing mistakes, and is well-prepared for possible surprises. I have been able to help clients through decisions that literally changed their lives. For example, remaining calm during a scary market, or realizing there is a pathway to financial independence that is achievable for them. This is where the passion for numbers becomes my passion for people. I love seeing the “light bulb” turn on as we help educate and coach our clients, who often become good friends.
While I enjoy working, I also enjoy playing golf. With a young family, I don’t find myself on the course that often. Instead, I am involved with my kids’ sports, listening to them play piano, or building amazing architectural achievements…with Legos.
I also love to run. I’ve completed one marathon and I loved every minute of it. Really. There are so many lessons to learn from training for and accomplishing a goal. Even the painful steps are beautiful. I think the marathon teaches a lot about life. Lots of parallels to the ups and downs we all experience, as well as the benefit gained if we stick with it. I still run but have a few more nagging injuries and a long run for me is 6 miles now, instead of 26.
Over the last few years, I have tried to commit to more reading. I’ve rotated through classic novels (the books I was supposed to have read in high school), business-related books, history books, and spiritual books. I’ve now made the habit of regular reading a more serious part of my life and I am becoming a better person because of it.
No introduction to myself is complete without a word about my faith. In my Christian faith, I find my ultimate foundation for truth and stability in life. I am reminded every day of the miracle of God’s love for us, shown through His amazing grace.
There’s a bit about me. I love what I do, I love my family, and I get to work with my twin brother and another of my best friends. I’d love the chance to get to know you, too. Please contact us if you think an introduction would be worthwhile.