He is the author of Better is Better (Classic Day Publishing, 2011), which explores an approach to financial decision-making based on what is most important to each person rather than simply defaulting to “more is better.” Jim graduated with a BS degree in Computer Science from Whitworth University and an MS degree in Financial Services from the American College.

He has achieved the designations of Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Life Underwriter and is a member of the Estate Planning Council of Seattle. An avid pilot, Jim flies as a volunteer for Angel Flight West delivering patients and medical supplies to and from remote areas and for LightHawk in support of various environmental projects.

He also enjoys windsurfing, back-country skiing, fly fishing, and any gathering involving food and wine. He lives with his wife, Carla, on Mercer Island.

Travis has adopted a true Pacific Northwest lifestyle. In his spare time he is likely to be found sailing, skiing, cycling, or swimming. He is an avid traveler and has visited over 30 countries on five continents.

Travis and his wife, Chelsea, live in Kirkland where they can often be found hosting various combinations of friends, neighbors, and family members at their home. They are enjoying the thrill and challenge of raising three young children.

She shapes the quality of service that the firm provides to ensure that clients feel simply ecstatic that they have chosen to work with the Smith/Richards Group.

After years cheering on their daughter, Maura, through club and collegiate athletics, Lori and her husband, Michael, are emerging empty-nesters. Instead of the softball field, they now spend their time hiking, cycling, and photographing the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Some of Michael’s stunning photographs adorn the walls of the Smith/Richards Group offices.

Originally from the Southwest, Lori graduated from the University of New Mexico with a BA in Economics and is licensed in both securities and insurance.

Chris’s people skills, empathy and communication shine through her daily interactions with clients and co-workers, and she enjoys being a part of such a supportive and genuine team.

A “people person” through and through, Chris is passionate about spreading positivity and sharing her Christian beliefs.

Josiah was born outside of Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the St. Louis metro area. Josiah graduated from Hickey College with a B.A. in Applied Management with an emphasis in Accounting.

Josiah now lives in Port Ludlow with his wife Jennifer and their children Jaxson and Zoey. Josiah and his family are enjoying the Pacific Northwest and exploring everything it has to offer.

Leann lives in Bellevue with her husband, Roland, and their two young children. Leann loves cooking and delights in baking with her daughter. As a family, they enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, reading, and constructing LEGOs.

Sue’s big shift in career started after she chose to stay home after the birth of her second child. During that time, she learned bookkeeping, working part time in collaboration with a friend, and involved herself deeply at her children’s school. She has held board positions during her son’s preschool years as well as at their current elementary school’s PTA.

Sue grew up in Houston, Texas and earned her masters of Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University. She moved to Brooklyn, NY after her schooling to practice physical therapy and fell in love with the city. She stayed for 14 years and worked in a variety of settings, including Harlem Hospital. She later took on an administrative role with the Visiting Nurse Service, where she learned to balance the needs of a large, evolving client base.

She loves exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, reading, discovering new restaurants and local wineries, and spending time with her husband and two active boys.

Danu grew up in Oakland, California. While a California girl at heart, she is happy to call the PNW home. She attended Gonzaga University and earned her Master in Teaching degree from Seattle University. Danu lives in Kenmore with Riley, Luke, and Lucy- her teenage twins and beloved mutt. She loves to travel (especially where there is sunshine), attends her kids’ soccer games, and explore new restaurants and coffee shops.

Laura currently supports multiple teams at the firm to help deliver an excellent client experience.

Laura grew up in the Seattle area and is happy to be staying close to family and friends. Laura enjoys going to concerts with friends, spending time camping in the summer, and going snowboarding in the winter. While Laura enjoys staying busy, she can also be found baking or reading a good book.

Kirt and his wife Shelley recently moved full-time to a small town outside of Palm Springs, CA. Along with their faithful pup, they can be found traveling up and down the West Coast in their Airstream trailer.