ABOUT GARY | garystephensjr.com

GARY STEPHENS JR

Entrepreneur | Strategic Consultant | Author | Speaker

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Over 20 years of experience in business and financial consulting

Extensive background in Financial Management, Entrepreneurial Coaching, Tax Strategy, and Business Development, and Operational Systems

Led strategic initiatives for individuals, entrepreneurs, athletes, and entertainers to achieve financial growth and independence

Known for delivering practical solutions that promote economic empowerment

Chairman of The Maleka C. Stephens Foundation, dedicated to advancing financial literacy and closing the racial wealth gap

Serves on the College of Business Advisory Board at SUNY Old Westbury, supporting curriculum development and entrepreneurial engagement

Speaker and coach specializing in resilience, financial freedom, and turning life challenges into success

MY JOURNEY

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.

Today, Gary focuses on helping people build financial freedom by sharing the personal lessons and professional frameworks that shaped his own journey—equipping others with the tools, guidance, and confidence to achieve their goals.

From the South Bronx to business ownership and beyond, Gary’s story continues to shape the values, vision, and impact behind SMG Consulting Group.

A FEW WORDS ABOUT GARY

Juan Perez

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 and entertainment career

Tomeka Lee

Partner - Trizen, LLC

We have worked with Gary for over 10 year. 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.

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 everyone can benefit from his business & financial knowledge because he delivers it with honesty and accountability, which keeps us informed and empowered

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 valued Hotel company within 5 years.

Jocelyn D. Wright

Certified Financial Planner

Gary has an impeccable attention to detail, a straight forward 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.