Marlon C. Smith is a bestselling author, International Keynote Speaker and legacy wealth consultant with more than 30 years of professional experience in youth leadership, personal development, and financial education. A Certified Financial Education Instructor & Legacy Wealth Strategist, Smith has spoken in 45 states and 18 countries, and served as a lead presenter for the Tony Robbins Global Youth Leadership Summit for more than two decades.

Smith's career began as a Systems Engineer for two fortune-100 corporations, and then on January 15, 1992, he listened to his heart and resigned from his corporate position to start Success By Choice, Inc. This pivot allowed Smith to apply his analytical skills to inspire others to maximize their potential and live with purpose. Between 1999-2005, he launched three offices in South Africa, with a 67-person staff, to develop a curriculum and global Train-the-Trainer model designed to amplify and educate millions on HIV prevention and treatment. His work has been profiled by Essence Magazine and other print, radio, and televised media, leading to Smith being a semifinalist for Oprah’s BIG GIVE.

Smith is the host of the "Breaking Barriers" podcast, and the co-host of the "Breakthrough Millionaire" podcast alongside Michael Quan. He is a published author of seven books, including "Living with Purpose-40 Days to Empowering You and Your Family" (2007) and an Amazon #1 Bestseller, "Voices of Inspiration" (2015). A contributing author to the international bestseller “Chicken Soup for the Soul” (1995), Smith has continued to empower people of all ages to interrogate and apply a winning mindset to their personal and professional endeavors. His forthcoming book, "Break-Up, Break-Down, Break-Through" (2025), explores strategies for acknowledging and overcoming life's biggest challenges. Smith earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Virginia.