A Vision Rooted in Transformation
The crowded gym buzzed with energy as Jason Lee watched a young trainer struggle to close a deal. The client hesitated, unsure if they should commit to a long-term fitness plan. Jason had seen this scenario countless times. Years ago, he might have stepped in with a hard sell, pushing for the close. But today, he knew better. Instead, he pulled the trainer aside and whispered, “Forget the sale. Ask them about their story.”
That moment reflected Jason’s own transformation. He started his career chasing numbers—sales, revenue, and business growth. But over time, he realized that true success wasn’t about transactions; it was about people, relationships, and building something that lasts. This mindset shift propelled him from the fitness industry into the world of wealth management and business advising, where he now helps entrepreneurs not just build businesses, but create legacies.
As Vice President of Exponent Prosperity Accelerator Advisors and a leader at Smart Group Houston, Jason is on a mission to equip business owners with the strategies they need to transform their success into sustainable wealth and long-term impact.
The Foundation: A Career Built on Leadership and Growth
Jason’s professional path is anything but conventional. He spent over 14 years in the fitness industry, first as a District Manager at 24 Hour Fitness, where he oversaw multiple locations, developed talent, and improved operational efficiency. His time in fitness management wasn’t just about running clubs; it was about building people, creating systems, and fostering a high-performance mindset.
His tenure at My Fit Foods as a District Manager further solidified his business acumen. Managing 18 retail locations and three kitchen facilities, he was responsible for operations, food safety, and revenue growth. These roles sharpened his ability to scale businesses, drive profitability, and cultivate strong leadership teams—skills that would later define his success in the financial sector.
The Pivot: From Health to Wealth
Transitioning from fitness to finance may seem like a leap, but for Jason, it was a natural evolution. His passion for helping people transform their lives extended beyond physical health to financial well-being. In 2015, he joined AXA Advisors, where he learned the intricacies of wealth management, tax strategies, and financial planning.
Jason quickly distinguished himself in the industry by bringing a fresh perspective to financial advising. He realized that most firms focused solely on asset accumulation, while neglecting the bigger picture: protecting wealth, minimizing tax liabilities, and ensuring financial security for future generations. This realization fueled his decision to co-found JLPCo Real Estate Investments in 2017, a venture specializing in foreclosure properties and distressed asset investments.
Leading at Exponent: A Wealth Strategy for Entrepreneurs
Recognizing the unique financial challenges faced by business owners, Jason took on a leadership role as Vice President of Exponent Prosperity Accelerator Advisors in 2019. The firm is built on the belief that entrepreneurs deserve more than just financial advice—they need a comprehensive strategy that aligns with their long-term business goals and personal legacy.
Exponent provides:
- Executive Retention Strategies – Helping companies retain top talent through innovative compensation and benefits structures.
- Tax Optimization Planning – Ensuring entrepreneurs maximize their earnings while minimizing tax burdens.
- Business Valuations and Capital Strategies – Helping business owners understand their company’s worth and leverage it for future success.
- Debt Elimination & Wealth Planning – Transforming financial burdens into opportunities for sustainable growth.
Jason’s approach is proactive rather than reactive. As he often says, “If your wealth manager only manages your investment account, then you have a partial wealth manager.” His goal is to give business owners full control over their financial future, so they can build something that outlasts them.
Beyond Business: Podcasting and Thought Leadership
Jason’s influence extends far beyond boardrooms and client meetings. As the host of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Podcast, he highlights industrial growth, capital investment, and business opportunities in Houston. His podcast serves as an advocacy platform, connecting business leaders, policymakers, and investors to drive economic development in the region.
Through his content and speaking engagements, Jason shares invaluable insights on legacy-building, financial independence, and business strategy. His thought leadership is a reflection of his own journey—a mix of personal growth, professional evolution, and an unshakable commitment to helping others succeed.
A Personal Philosophy of Continuous Growth
Jason doesn’t just teach financial strategies; he embodies the principles of growth, resilience, and self-improvement. In a recent post, he shared a personal breakthrough about the importance of mental clarity and self-care. After experiencing burnout, he learned to reset his mind through activities like cold plunging, meditation, and digital detoxing. “The key is to slow down, push the reset button, and make it happen,” he wrote.
His journey has been shaped by transformational experiences like these—from shifting his perspective on sales to embracing a more compassionate, relationship-driven approach to business. His evolution underscores his belief that success is not just about working harder, but about working smarter and living with intention.
The Road Ahead: A Legacy in the Making
As Jason continues to grow Exponent and Smart Group Houston, his focus remains clear: empowering business owners to create lasting financial legacies. His future plans include expanding his reach through more speaking engagements, educational content, and strategic partnerships that align with his mission.
Ultimately, Jason Lee’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and purpose. He has built a career that blends business expertise with human connection, proving that wealth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, relationships, and the impact we leave behind.
Five Key Questions for Reflection
Jason Lee’s journey offers profound lessons for business leaders and entrepreneurs. Here are five thought-provoking questions inspired by his story:
- Are you chasing transactions or building relationships? – Jason’s career shifted when he realized that true success comes from understanding people, not just closing deals.
- Is your financial strategy protecting your future or just accumulating assets? – Wealth isn’t just about making money—it’s about creating security, minimizing risks, and leaving a legacy.
- Are you working harder or working smarter? – Jason emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking and intentional growth over burnout and relentless hustle.
- How are you investing in your mental clarity and well-being? – From cold plunging to meditation, Jason highlights the power of resetting your mind to operate at peak performance.
- What impact will you leave behind? – Jason’s mission is about more than financial success—it’s about helping others build legacies that last beyond their lifetime.
Connect with Jason Lee on LinkedIn.
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