A Legacy of Care: Michael Lee's Award-Winning Dedication to Financial Empowerment

Retirement planning can often feel like a complex maze, but with the proper guidance, it becomes a journey of confident decision-making. We recently spoke with Michael Lee, a Principal Wealth Advisor and Focus Team Lead at Farther, who won the 2025 Rising Star award from Investment News. 

Michael's journey into financial advising is deeply personal, rooted in his experience helping his first-generation immigrant mother navigate the overwhelming complexities of retirement paperwork. This heartfelt beginning, in which he translated over 200 pages of legalese, instilled in him a profound passion for simplifying financial decisions and a commitment to ensuring that every client feels empowered and understood, regardless of their background.

His unique approach, which emphasizes breaking down complex concepts into everyday language and treating every individual with equal respect, sets him apart. Michael fosters a team culture built on camaraderie and a flat hierarchy, inspired by his rowing background, in which everyone works together toward a common goal. 

His philosophy of camaraderie extends to his client interactions, where he prioritizes understanding each person's unique story, including their career paths through corporate mergers and acquisitions, to provide truly personalized advice.

This dedication to client-centricity, his ability to demystify finance, and his commitment to mentoring other advisors in a supportive environment are the driving forces behind his success and ultimately contributed to his recognition as a 2025 Rising Star. He believes that retirement planning is an ongoing investment, much like one's health, and advocates for consistent engagement, especially as retirement approaches. His most rewarding moments come from seeing clients gain confidence in their financial futures, knowing that his expertise and care have made a tangible difference. 

To learn more about Michael and how he can help you with your financial journey, visit his bio page. There, you can explore his experience, book a consultation, or connect with him via LinkedIn, email, or phone.

Watch Michael’s interview with InvestmentNews TV: