Coaching Sessions are FREE to Residents of Pittsfield, MA and the Surrounding Areas

About Me

Learn a little bit about Me

Hi, I’m Michael Einstein, your Financial Coach

Why I Coach

I started Simple Financial Coach because I care deeply about helping people take control of their financial lives. After years of offering informal financial advice to friends and family, I realized just how many people are overwhelmed by money matters — and how much I enjoy helping them.

Several years ago, I began volunteering with my county’s Elder Services department as a Money Manager, helping people organize their bills and budgets right in their homes. That experience inspired me to reach even more people in my local community.

Like many others, I’ve made my share of financial mistakes. But over time, I’ve studied, practiced, and refined what works. I have seen how financial stress can impact not only individuals but entire families. My goal is to help others build healthier relationships with money so they can live happier, more independent lives.

How I Coach

My first job as a coach is to listen — because everyone’s financial situation is different.

Some people come to me drowning in debt. Others are trying to create a budget that finally works. Some need help setting savings goals. And others just don’t know where to begin.

With a background in finance, technology, and project management, I bring a practical, organized approach to each client’s challenges. I also focus on using simple tools and automation to make money management easier and less stressful.

My financial philosophy is inspired by experts I deeply admire — Dave Ramsey, Ric Edelman, John Bogle, and Dr. Burton Malkiel. They all emphasize the same core principles: live below your means, eliminate debt, follow a budget (or “money plan”), save consistently over time, and keep your finances and investing simple yet diversified.

I understand that there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution to financial struggles. While knowledge and tools are important, lasting financial change usually comes down to behavior and mindset. Just like with diet or exercise, knowing what to do is one thing, but actually building repeatable habits is what leads to real, lasting results.

My goal isn’t to lecture or shame, but to support your journey — offering encouragement, teaching practical skills, and celebrating the small wins that add up to lasting change.

My Background

I spent over 30 years working in customer service, software, procurement, and supply chain roles for large, global companies. Much of my work focused on designing technology solutions, leading large projects, and improving business processes.

I hold a Doctorate in Business (DBA), a Master's in Business Administration (MBA), and a Bachelor's in Computer Science (BS). I also hold several certifications in software, procurement, supply chain, and project management.

These days, I teach online for the MBA programs at several universities and also work as a project management trainer and consultant throughout the Northeast. I also serve on the Steering Team of the Information Overload Research Group and volunteer with Elder Services of Berkshire County’s Money Management program.

A Bit About Me

I grew up in New York — originally in New York City, and then in Westchester County. I went to college in upstate New York, where I met my spouse. After living in New York City and then Westchester County after college, we moved to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where we worked and raised our family. We have now relocated to the beautiful Berkshires in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

We enjoy a mix of part-time teaching and consulting work, volunteering, and making the most of the outdoors. I love hiking, skiing, sailing, snowshoeing, fishing, and spending time by the water. My hobbies include photography, yoga, stained glass, exercise, and home projects.

You can learn more about my professional background on my LinkedIn page.