When Von Miller was 26 years old, he had a home, a wife, and a newborn baby when he unexpectedly lost his job. With a family to support and a mortgage to pay, Von became painfully aware that he lacked knowledge about managing finances effectively. This realization ignited a passion in him, prompting him to devour every book and magazine on personal finance he could find. He also sought out mentors and friends who could educate him on money and investing, sparking a lifelong interest in financial education.
Over the next 25+ years, Von earned a reputation among friends and family as a trusted source for financial guidance. Through these numerous conversations, he realized that many people had never been taught even the basic principles of personal finance. In 2021, Von decided to share his years of accumulated knowledge by creating a Personal Finance Crash Course which he taught to over 40 family members and friends in his home. Encouraged by the positive feedback, he approached his longtime friend Kelly Robbins with the idea of formalizing this knowledge into a financial education and coaching business.
Thus, in 2024, Solid Footing Finance was established.
BELIEFS
We believe that money is neither good nor bad, but simply a tool. And although money cannot buy happiness, it can increase options, decrease financial stress, and open up more opportunities in life. When used wisely and given generously, it can also enhance the lives of others in our families, neighborhoods and communities.
Solid Footing Finance was founded on the belief that a little financial knowledge, when combined with encouragement and accountability, can be life changing. Developing good financial habits early in life can give people the solid financial footing they need to achieve their life goals and pursue their dreams – no matter where they are starting from today.
Our Team
Co-founder, Instructor, Coach
Kelly Robbins
Kelly’s journey as an entrepreneur began in grade school, where he harvested vegetables from his parents’ garden and sold them door-to-door on his block. This early initiative expanded into mowing lawns, paper routes, and more. His entrepreneurial spirit persisted through various ventures, including real estate (both residential and commercial), electronic manufacturing, workforce recruiting, and even a quick-serve restaurant.
Alongside these pursuits, he pursued a traditional career in Automotive Engineering & Management while answering a calling to full-time Pastoral Ministry in the late 90s and early 2000s.
Combining this diverse background, Kelly possesses a unique ability to offer guidance and coaching to others. Whether it’s managing personal budgets, overseeing church finances, or leading a $100M annual automotive program, he excels at envisioning the big picture, navigating short and long-term goals, and providing gentle coaching to achieve results.
Married for nearly four decades, Kelly and his wife have raised two adult children. He actively participates in his faith community, cherishes moments with family and friends, enjoys home renovation and DIY projects, indulges in working on and driving classic cars, and prioritizes continued education and personal growth.
Co-founder, Instructor, Coach
Von Miller
Von graduated college with a degree in Electrical Engineering and began his career as a service technician and computer programmer for a medical equipment company and later for an automotive supplier, where he spent the first decade of his professional life.
At the age of 30, he transitioned into the real estate industry, honing his entrepreneurial skills as a real estate agent, investor, and owner/operator of income properties, including a 46-unit apartment complex. Additionally, he founded a home maintenance company which he eventually sold.
Throughout his life, Von has had a passion for teaching and helping others. Since the age of 22, he has consistently taught adult classes at his church and led home group Bible studies. Recently, he developed and taught a personal finance course to over 40 friends and family members.
Von and his wife have been happily married for over 30 years and have three adult children, a daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren. In addition to his professional and teaching endeavors, Von is an active member of the Michigan Angel Fund, investing in early-stage startup companies in Michigan. He also enjoys playing volleyball, camping, building things, making his own maple syrup and hot sauces, and of course, listening to audio books and podcasts on personal finance!