Today we’d like to introduce you to Reshell Smith.
Reshell, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
After graduating High School, I moved to Atlanta, GA to attend Morris Brown College, where I obtained a degree in Accounting. I was and still am a “numbers girl,” so Accounting seemed like the right major for me. But just like many college students, I was not happy with my major and decided not to pursue a career in Accounting. Instead, I started in banking as a teller and haphazardly ended up in Financial Services. Over the last 24 years, I’ve worked my way through different channels in the Financial Services industry.
Along the way, I obtained many securities licenses, which allowed me to serve High Net Worth clients and at one point, I managed over $100 million in assets. That was such a rewarding period of time in my life and I loved what I was doing, but I felt there was a different calling for me. I believe I am called to teach financial literacy and serve underserved females, which brings me to my current role. I am the owner of AMES Financial Solutions, which is a virtual financial planning firm. I offer comprehensive financial planning services that include budgeting, retirement planning, investment management, risk management and more.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been a smooth road. I am an African-American female in a Caucasian male-dominated industry. When people think of a Stock Broker, Financial Advisor or really any role in this industry, a white male tends to come to mind. It’s getting better, but the financial services industry has not always looked like an industry where women can be successful. One of the biggest challenges I had to overcome was finding my unique lane. The other challenge is narrowing down and attracting my target market. I know exactly who I want to work with. They just don’t know that I’m here and available to serve them. Financial Planners have not always been visible to my niche market, so I have to do a better job of getting the word out.
Please tell us about AMES Financial Solutions.
AMES Financial Solutions is a virtual financial planning firm. I offer comprehensive financial planning including Budgeting, Retirement Planning, Investment Planning, Risk Management and more. My mission is to help women build wealth, live in abundance and leave a legacy for at least two generations. I believe that focusing on the relationship with my clients and being relatable is what sets me apart. I try to be transparent about my own financial challenges and successes. This helps my clients feel at ease and not feel judged because they made past money mistakes.
I am a teacher at heart and promoting financial literacy is one of my primary focuses. To help with the promotion of financial literacy, I created “She’s So Wealthy Academy,” and I wrote a book. My academy offers courses, checklists and downloads that individuals can use to improve their personal finances and learn about the Stock Market. My book “A Woman’$ Worth: 7 Key Essentials to Financial Independence” is a guide to help individuals make smart money decisions so they can transition from financial chaos and clutter to financial independence and flexibility.
Of all the work I do, I am most proud when I can reach the masses and help them make an immediate mindset shift. Whether it be through television, radio or social media, I am always proud when someone gets an a-ha moment based on information I shared.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t believe in luck. I believe every success and challenge is meant to be a part of my journey. I am spiritual, I believe in God and as much as possible, I lean on my faith in God.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1746 E. Silver Star Road #190
Ocoee, FL 34761 - Website: www.reshellsmith.com
- Phone: 407-258-1062
- Email: info@reshellsmith.com
- Instagram: @reshellsmith
- Facebook: @reshellssmith
- Twitter: @reshellsmith
- Other: https://reshellsmith.teachable.com/
Suggest a story: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
