Every advisory relationship starts with a conversation. We take the time to understand your goals, concerns, and priorities so guidance is thoughtful, personal, and grounded in what matters most to you.
Below, you can learn more about our team and easily schedule time to connect by phone or in person. Whether you are an existing client or exploring an introductory meeting, we look forward to the conversation.
Sam Howard, CFP®
Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor
Sam takes a problem-solving approach to wealth management with an emphasis on advanced planning and risk management. He began his career in the financial industry in 2006 at A.G. Edwards & Sons Inc in Midland after a 15-year career in the plastics industry. Sam is a 1991 graduate of the University of Dayton where he played basketball for the Flyers for 4 years and graduated with a Communications Management degree.
In 2019, Sam joined Baird Private Wealth Management along with his team. “It is the relationships with my clients that I enjoy the most. I am fortunate to have clients from which I derive so much personal and professional enjoyment throughout my workday."
Sam is currently the Associate Branch Manager of the Midland Baird Branch. He holds the Series 7 General Securities License, Series 9 and 10 General Securities Sales Supervisor, Series 66, as well as the State Insurance Exam. Proudly, Sam also holds the Certified Financial Planner designation (CFP®™) earned in September 2013. Sam states, “Planning and problem-solving form the bedrock of our financial services practice.”
Sam and his wife, Sharon, reside in Midland. They have 2 grown daughters; Madison and Skylar whom both live in Grand Rapids. In their free time, Sam and his family like to travel and spend time together. When not surrounded by the amazing women in his life, Sam likes to spend quiet time on a river trying to fool a fish or two.
Brian White
Financial Advisor
Gregory Porath, CFP®
Financial Advisor
Greg joined Baird in 2023 and works with individuals and families to help bring clarity, structure, and intention to their financial lives. He holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designation and maintains the appropriate securities and insurance licenses to serve his clients. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Economics from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Greg takes a planning‑first approach to advising, focusing on understanding each client’s unique circumstances before offering guidance. His goal is to make financial planning approachable and productive, helping clients connect day‑to‑day decisions with long‑term goals through a thoughtful, disciplined process. He values long‑term relationships built on trust, clear communication, and shared accountability.Originally from Saginaw and having lived in Grand Rapids for many years, Greg is happy to call the Midland area home and to be closer to family. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, cooking, camping, spending time near the water, and spoiling his dogs.
Lynn MacLean
Senior Client Specialist
Lynn began her career in the securities industry in 2009 with joining the Hilliard Lyons office in Midland. She has attained the FINRA Securities license Series 7 and the State securities licenses 63 and 66. She then transitioned to Baird during the merger in 2019.
Lynn works on the administration side of the team, helping with any service needs. You can count on Lynn to answer any questions clients might have or connecting them with the member of the team that is best to assist.
Lynn is a proud Central Michigan University graduate with a degree in Sociology. She practiced as a social worker for many years and then stayed home to care for her children when they were young. She and her two daughters live in Saginaw Township. When not helping Baird clients, Lynn can be found exercising, reading, singing, and enjoying family time.