PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
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Over 20 years of experience in business and financial consulting
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Extensive background in Financial Management, Entrepreneurial Coaching, Tax Strategy, and Business Development, and Operational Systems
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Led strategic initiatives for individuals, entrepreneurs, athletes, and entertainers to achieve financial growth and independence
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Known for delivering practical solutions that promote economic empowerment
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Chairman of The Maleka C. Stephens Foundation, dedicated to advancing financial literacy and closing the racial wealth gap
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Serves on the College of Business Advisory Board at SUNY Old Westbury, supporting curriculum development and entrepreneurial engagement
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Speaker and coach specializing in resilience, financial freedom, and turning life challenges into success
LET'S CONNECT
PROFESSIONAL OVERVIEW
A kid from the South Bronx, Gary Stephens turned a foundation in Pre-Law and a Master’s in Accounting & Financial Management into a decades-long journey through entrepreneurship. In 2001, he founded SMG Consulting Group—a multi-division firm dedicated to helping individuals and businesses gain clarity, structure, and long-term success in their financial and entrepreneurial goals.
Over the years, Gary has worked with high achievers—including entrepreneurs, athletes, and entertainers—while navigating the real-life challenges of building and sustaining a business. After the devastating loss of his wife and immediate family, his mission deepened. That personal experience now fuels his passion to educate, empower, and uplift others through strategic consulting and transformational speaking.
From the South Bronx to Business Ownership and Beyond, Gary’s journey continues to shape the values, vision, and impact behind SMG Consulting Group.
BOOK GARY AS A SPEAKER
Gary’s speeches draw from over two decades of experience as a business and financial consultant, working with entrepreneurs, athletes, entertainers, and individuals from all walks of life. He delivers powerful, experience-based presentations that inspire action and transformation. His journey of resilience, shaped by the devastating loss of his immediate family, fuels a compelling message of turning pain into purpose, learning how to pivot in life, and building a life of financial freedom. Through impactful stories of entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and high-performance coaching, Gary empowers audiences to pursue freedom, clarity, and lasting success. He built a life of financial freedom—and aims to inspire others to do the same.
SNAPSHOTS FROM THE JOURNEY
Tomeka Lee
Partner - Trizen, LLC
“We have worked with Gary for over 10 years. His expertise, advice, and humor has been critical to the growth of our business and our financial success. With his attention to detail & knowledge of our unique needs, Gary has been an instrumental partner in our journey to success and prosperity.”
Shawn Vardi
COO - Think Hotel Group
"Gary and his company provided my companies with the tools and resources to grow from a start-up to a $100 million dollar hotel company within 5 years."
Juan Perez
President
Roc Nation Sports
"Gary's business advice and leadership of starting a recording studio (Baseline Studios) turned out to be an epic springboard into my sports & entertainment career."
Stephen A. Smith
Sports TV Personality
"Gary is one of my trusted ears and voices. People like Gary are important in today’s society because individuals, business owners, & athletes can benefit from his business & financial knowledge because it keeps us informed and empowers others."
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Jocelyn D. Wright
Managing Partner
PF Wealth Management
“Gary has an impeccable attention to detail, a straightforward approach to communication, and the unique ability to convey concepts in a manner that perfectly aligns with your level of understanding along with a witty sense of humor. His expertise and personable nature make the experience of working with him both informative and enjoyable.”