What if true financial freedom isn’t about chasing more, but about choosing better? In this episode of Seek Go Create, host Tim Winders sits down with Dr. Nicholas Michels—former pro basketball player, faith-filled leader, and author of "Rich by Choice." From a childhood shaken by sudden loss to building wealth rooted in faith and values, Dr. Michels shares his journey and the power of aligning money with what matters most. Discover how purpose, clarity, and intentional choices can change your life and legacy. If you’re ready to rethink money and leadership, this conversation is for you.
"Align your money with what’s most important—true happiness comes from that." - Dr. Nicholas Michels
Access all show and episode resources HERE
About Our Guest:
Dr. Nicholas Michels is an elite wealth strategist, author of the book Rich by Choice, and a former professional basketball player. From growing up in a trailer park to turning down an $8 million deal to preserve his core values, Dr. Michels brings a unique, purpose-driven perspective to financial leadership. He is a trusted advisor who helps families build wealth with clarity and peace, not pressure. Driven by his deep faith and commitment to integrity, he’s passionate about empowering others to achieve not just financial abundance, but true richness in all areas of life.
Reasons to Listen:
- Uncover the true meaning of financial freedom—Dr. Nicholas Michels shares why aligning your money with your values leads to happiness, drawing from his own dramatic life story and professional experience.
- Gain actionable strategies to build wealth with peace, not pressure—Learn practical tips and family-tested exercises to achieve “richness” in both finances and life, including how Dr. Michels and his wife overcame money challenges together.
- Get a behind-the-scenes look at leading with faith and purpose—Hear how faith, resilience, and intentional choices helped Dr. Michels rise from hardship to success, and why financial clarity is a vital form of leadership everyone should embrace.
Episode Resources & Action Steps:
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Book: "Rich by Choice" by Dr. Nicholas Michels: Dr. Michels’ book focuses on aligning money with personal values, creating wealth with purpose, and finding true happiness through intentional financial choices. (Free gift and additional resources available)
- Website: RichByChoiceBook.com: The official website for Dr. Michels' book, offering free chapters, compounding resources, and options for further learning and connecting with Dr. Michels.
- Marriage and Money Devotionals/Books (John Gottman’s resources mentioned): Dr. Michels referenced using marriage devotionals and John Gottman’s books to foster better communication and connection around finances with his spouse.
Action Steps for Listeners
- Create a Family Vision Statement: Sit down with your partner or family and write out detailed visions for your life—including financial goals, experiences, and the values you want to prioritize. Share and discuss to align on a common vision.
- Intentionally Schedule Financial Check-ins: Set regular times to communicate about money with open-ended, honest questions. Use resources or devotionals (such as those by John Gottman) to guide your conversations and strengthen the partnership.
- Download and Apply the Compounding Resource: Visit