MATTHEW MICHAEL

Founder, Financial Advisor and Income Tax Specialist
602-956-3032

Matt started his career as a Financial Advisor and Income Tax Specialist shortly before one of the worst markets any advisor has seen. It was during this time he learned the importance of proper planning, education, and communication. Matt has used this experience over the past 13 years to develop a strategic process that marries both personal income tax planning and wealth management. Through this process, he educates his clients and helps them formulate goals to make informed decisions about their future all while helping them reduce their tax burden.
Matt’s passion is to serve others through this process and to establish long-term relationships where trust is earned through communication, transparency, and accountability.
Keeping with the theme of starting new things in difficult environments, Matt founded Illuminate Wealth Advocates, LLC, and Illuminate Tax Advisors, LLC amidst the 2020 pandemic. These companies will serve as a pathway for Matt and his team to sincerely impact his client’s lives.

When not at the office, Matt spends most of this time with his beautiful wife Vanessa, and children Landon, Lilly, and Lucy. He enjoys playing golf and is active in serving the community around him. Matt is also currently on the board of Purpose Movement, a Christian, non-profit outreach that helps support those in Arizona experiencing various needs.

LANDON MICHAEL

Director of Ninja Activities

Landon specializes in all things “boy”, with an emphasis on testing the limits, and raising mom’s pulse. As the first born, he falls naturally into his leadership role, never backing down from a challenge, and really embracing the “take charge” mentality needed to excel in this very important position.

LILLY MICHAEL

Chief Happiness Officer

Lilly has a masters in “sweet dispositions” and “can do” attitudes, making her the ideal candidate for such an imperative position in our company. As the middle sibling, she radiates independence in everything she does, eager to help wherever she can. We can’t imagine a more qualified candidate to fill this role.

LUCY MICHAEL

Director of Office Smiles

Lucy has recently graduated to solid foods and joined the corporate world of walking. With a PhD in “getting her way”, her strengths include: eating snacks, laughing, and melting your heart on demand. She has big plans of getting more teeth soon, and the future looks bright for this girl with the million dollar smile!

Lawson Michael

Director of Mischief

Lawson, the self-appointed "Director of Mischief," Lawson takes the role seriously—or, as seriously as a toddler can! With an infectious giggle that can brighten the gloomiest days, Lawson is a master at turning ordinary moments into extraordinary adventures. From exploring uncharted territories in the backyard to launching covert stuffed animal operations, this little one's imagination knows no bounds.

VANESSA MICHAEL

Chief Inspiration Officer

Vanessa’s specialties include, but are not limited to: chaos coordinator, backyard safety, meltdown negotiator, rule enforcer, search and rescue of lost toys and other inconspicuous items, booboo repair specialist, and lead hug expert. With a background in caring for others, there isn’t anyone who could fill her shoes with so much love and grace so naturally.