On this episode of Our American Stories Green Bay Wisconsin has a population of just over people It is smaller than many cities with minor-league baseball teams yet somehow it is home to one of the most famous and valuable franchises in professional sports Almost every other small industrial town that helped build the early NFL eventually lost its team So how did the Green Bay Packers survive and turn the city into Titletown USA This is the remarkable story of how community ownership championship football a new stadium the rise of Vince Lombardi and a strategic battle over nearby [... more]

Money has a way of reaching places in our lives that few other things do It touches our fears desires relationships priorities and sense of security That may be why Jesus spoke so often about money and possessions In Matthew He says For where your treasure is there your heart will be also Jesus understood something we often miss money issues are often heart issues Our financial choices can reveal what we trust what we desire and ultimately what we treasure Materialism Is a Heart ProblemYears ago Ron Blue once shared a story from his time in Kenya that profoundly [... more]

Where you bank may seem like a purely practical decision We often compare interest rates fees convenience and technology and those things matter But for Christians banking can also be viewed through the larger lens of stewardship Every financial decision gives us an opportunity to consider how faithfully we are managing the resources God has entrusted to us Aaron Caid Chief Marketing Officer at AdelFi Christian Banking joined the show today to discuss financial discipleship the role of Christian financial institutions and how everyday banking decisions can support work that advances the gospel Banking as an Act of Stewardship Biblical [... more]

Puritan poet Anne Bradstreet once wrote Wisdom without an inheritance is better than an inheritance without wisdom Every parent hopes the resources they leave behind will bless their children But a financial inheritance can have very different effects depending on the person receiving it That is why wise wealth transfer requires more than simply deciding how much to leave it requires careful thought prayer and an understanding of each child's unique circumstances Ron Blue co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and longtime teacher on biblical stewardship calls this the uniqueness principle Equal Love Doesn't Always Require Equal Treatment Studies show that many [... more]

Meta has agreed to pay North Carolina up to million over allegations that its social media platforms harmed children marking a major development in the state's efforts to hold technology companies accountable Meanwhile a new High Point University poll shows Roy Cooper and other Democratic candidates leading in several key North Carolina races heading toward November The program also examines newly released details surrounding Cooper's decision to delay announcing a school reopening plan during the COVID- pandemic including information that has emerged six years after the decision was made See omnystudio com listener for privacy information [... more]

Reverse mortgages have carried a negative reputation for years especially among Christians who are cautious about debt But as with any financial tool faithful stewardship calls us to understand how it works before deciding whether it belongs in a financial plan Harlan Accola leads the reverse mortgage team at Movement Mortgage a FaithFi underwriter He joined the show today to explain why reverse mortgages remain controversial how today's Home Equity Conversion Mortgage HECM differs from older products and when it might play a useful role in retirement planning Why Are Christians Hesitant About Reverse Mortgages For many believers the hesitation [... more]

Jesus ends the Sermon on the Mount with a familiar picture two men building two houses One builds on rock The other builds on sand When the storms come only one house remains standing The difference isn't the weather Both houses face the storm The difference is the foundation That picture from Matthew offers a helpful way to think about our financial lives Job losses medical expenses market declines and unexpected bills eventually test every household The question is whether our financial lives are built on something strong enough to withstand them John Cortines a Family Office Advisor with Blue [... more]

ESG investing promises to align your portfolio with your values But an important question remains Whose values are shaping the standards Environmental social and governance ratings are often presented as measures of corporate responsibility Yet the assumptions behind those ratings may not always align with biblical convictions Nick Schmitz Professor of Finance at The Catholic University of America and a Board Member of the Christian Investing Council CIC joined the show today to explain the differences between ESG and faith-based investing and why Christians should pay attention not only to what they own but also to how their shares are [... more]

Students from a Wake County public school traveled to China through an exchange program linked to the Chinese Communist Party raising questions about the program and its connections Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss a new report finding North Carolina's business tax climate remains among the strongest in the nation compared with key competitor states Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation reacts to Governor Josh Stein's veto of House Bill and the ongoing debate over the election reforms included in the legislation Plus AmeriCorps has awarded million to support volunteer and service programs across North [... more]

President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican Jennifer Balkcom in North Carolina's th Congressional District while new questions are emerging over campaign funds connected to outgoing Congressman Chuck Edwards and a Las Vegas trip Meanwhile North Carolina has secured nearly million in federal funding for rail safety improvements and track upgrades across the state Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a major court ruling finding that North Carolina has failed to meet its constitutional obligation to maintain and protect the state's fisheries Plus a judge has ruled that former Governor Roy Cooper will not be [... more]

Stewardship isn't a one-time decision It's an ongoing way of life a cycle that begins with gratitude moves through faithful growth and leads to generosity Tim Tassopoulos Former President and Chief Operating Officer of Chick-fil-A has seen that cycle at work throughout his life and career During his decades with the company he helped shape a culture known not only for operational excellence but also for servant leadership hospitality and investing in people For Tassopoulos faithful stewardship starts with a foundational truth God owns it all That includes our finances but it extends much further Our abilities relationships opportunities time [... more]

Governor Josh Stein signed four bills into law, including one that reduces his appointment powers and another that extends housing supplies and limits local zoning barriers across North Carolina. Meanwhile, North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson rejected a proposed settlement with Duke Energy Progress, citing a 6.8% rate hike as too high. Senator Ted Budd led an unsuccessful effort to amend the U.S. Senate's continuing resolution to delay federal restrictions on hemp products, while North Carolina lawmakers remain deadlocked over legislation that would incorporate federal hemp standards into state law. The North Carolina Department of Labor recovered a record $3.7 million in unpaid wages for workers across the state. [... more]

Bill Bright shares his experience with horse grooming and riding, highlighting the importance of regular grooming to ensure comfort for both the rider and the horse. He also discusses the lessons learned from horse ownership, including personal responsibility, control, and courage. [... more]

A budget is a plan for managing what God has entrusted to you, not a burden or source of shame. It's a tool for faithfulness, helping you live with biblical wisdom and generosity, and revealing patterns in your spending. Best practices include starting with giving, knowing your true income, giving every dollar a job, planning for irregular expenses, building margin, and reviewing and adjusting your budget regularly. [... more]

Christian investors are using their influence to confront exploitation and encourage companies to protect the vulnerable, with a focus on combating human trafficking and promoting faith-based investing principles. [... more]

For generations, owning a home has been central to achieving the American dream, but as many struggle with affordability, some are turning to alternative solutions, such as relocation incentives and innovative skincare products, while others are grappling with the impact of the AI economy on their communities. [... more]

The hosts discuss the potential lockout in baseball, the risks of scooter injuries, the value of prospects in trades, and the possibility of a traditional owner for the Packers. They also touch on the WWE and AEW, including the upcoming SummerSlam event and the potential for a Saudi Arabia-based WrestleMania. [... more]

Harlan Akola explains how a reverse mortgage can be a tax-efficient way to manage retirement income, while Rob West discusses strategies for building credit and managing debt, emphasizing the importance of God's wisdom in financial decisions. [... more]

Christ's redemptive death on the cross affirms that God is for the body and that the body is for the Lord. The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and Christ's redemption on the cross emphasize that believers are not their own, but are God's purchased possession, belonging to Him and having a new master who has a new will and purpose for their life called His law. [... more]

The Green Bay Packers' unique ownership structure is under scrutiny as the team faces financial challenges and pressure to adopt a more traditional ownership model. Critics argue that the team's refusal to sell naming rights to Lambeau Field is a missed opportunity for revenue, while others defend the team's commitment to its community and tradition. [... more]

The Democratic Socialists of America's platform includes abolishing the Senate, presidency, and Supreme Court, and replacing them with a parliamentary system. They also advocate for government ownership of corporations, defunding the Pentagon, and abolishing borders. Critics argue that these policies would lead to authoritarianism and a loss of checks and balances in the government. [... more]

College students need to learn how to manage their money effectively to avoid financial pitfalls and build a solid financial foundation. Dr. Kelly Rush shares practical budgeting advice and discusses the importance of understanding the time value of money, avoiding debt, and building credit. She also emphasizes the need for clear communication between parents and students when it comes to financial responsibility and independence. [... more]

God owns everything, and as stewards, we must surrender and trust in His plan for our finances. This biblical wisdom guides us in making wise decisions about money, giving, and investing, and Certified Kingdom Advisors can provide expert guidance and support. By prioritizing faith-based financial guidance, we can live out our values and make decisions that honor God. [... more]

The concept of stewardship is central to understanding human nature and the role of individuals in society, as taught in Scripture. The Bible emphasizes that humans are stewards of God's creation and resources, rather than owners, and that our actions have consequences. This understanding is often overlooked in modern discussions of economics and politics, which focus on changing systems rather than changing hearts. Christians are called to be faithful stewards of their resources and to recognize that true redemption comes through Jesus Christ, not through human systems or institutions. [... more]

Many retirees have spent decades building equity in their homes, but could that equity become a wise tool for stewardship in the next season of life? A reverse mortgage can be a flexible, optional payment loan that allows homeowners to use part of their equity without losing their home or having to sell it. However, some people feel unnecessary guilt when thinking about this option, and it's essential to understand the myths and realities of reverse mortgages to make informed financial decisions. [... more]

The Limited Liability Company has enabled companies to raise money from a large number of strangers, leading to major infrastructure projects like concrete skyscrapers and bridges. Meanwhile, the index fund has saved investors billions of dollars in fees by allowing them to invest in the market as a whole, rather than trying to pick individual stocks. In China, the country has poured more concrete than the US did in the entire 20th century, highlighting the importance of this versatile building material. [... more]

Busyness can be a spiritually dangerous distraction from financial faithfulness, leading to neglect of habits that build long-term stewardship. To stay financially faithful in a busy season, slow down, prioritize what matters most, simplify, remember that small acts of faithfulness matter, and keep the goal in view. Financial decisions should be guided by biblical wisdom, not just transactions, and every dollar earned, spent, saved, or given becomes an opportunity to express what we believe about God. [... more]

Nehemiah's prayer in the book of Nehemiah is a model for revival and awakening, emphasizing the importance of collective guilt, responsibility, and looking back to the promises of God. He confesses the sins of his people and takes ownership of their actions, demonstrating a willingness to seek God's mercy and forgiveness. [... more]

A discussion about the importance of local ownership in sports teams, with a focus on the Milwaukee Bucks and the potential impact of private equity ownership. The hosts also share their hypothetical plans for a week in Wisconsin before being traded to a new location, and explore the idea of a 'prime minister' to run the day-to-day operations of a sports team. [... more]

Faith-driven investors are seeking ways to align their investments with their values, and new tools are making it easier than ever. Mike Schnackenberg from Eventide Asset Management discusses the rise of faith-based ETFs and how they can help investors make a positive impact through their investments, while avoiding problematic areas that go against their Christian worldview. [... more]

The Milwaukee Bucks' draft lottery results are discussed, with the team staying at the 10th pick. The potential trade of Giannis Antetokounmpo is also explored, with various teams being considered as potential destinations. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers are having a successful season, sweeping the Yankees and sitting second in the NL Central division. [... more]

Helping adult children grow in responsibility and independence is a delicate balance for parents, requiring wisdom and grace. The way we offer support can shape not just their circumstances, but their character. Understanding what it means to define 'enough' and making room for maturity are key to strengthening our adult children, rather than sidelining them. [... more]

Peter Rosenberger, a caregiver, reflects on the hypocrisy in Washington and the media's credibility problem, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility and repentance. He shares his experience as a caregiver and the impact it has on his perspective, emphasizing the need to own one's actions and behavior. The conversation also touches on a faith-based program at a prison facility, where inmates are involved in creating prosthetic limbs for those in need. [... more]

The concept of wanting less is explored as a means to achieve financial freedom and a more intimate relationship with God. Bob Loddick shares stories and biblical examples, including the rich young ruler and Zacchaeus, to illustrate the importance of contentment and releasing possessions. He also discusses the comparison trap and how it can lead to a loss of freedom, and provides practical advice on how to start wanting less and living a more simple life. [... more]

Financial decisions are not just about money, but about what we value and trust. Scripture invites us to slow down and look deeper at our spending, revealing what we truly value. A fiduciary duty is essential when choosing a financial advisor, ensuring they act in our best interest. Trusts can simplify financial planning, but require careful management. A certified kingdom advisor can help navigate complex financial situations, aligning our values with our financial decisions. [... more]

The concept of the human condition is explored through the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis chapter 4, highlighting the struggle to let go of things that are considered 'mine' and instead see them as gifts from God, meant to be used and then released. [... more]

Peter Rosenberger discusses the importance of taking ownership and responsibility for one's actions, rather than blaming others or using language that creates distance. He explores how this concept is relevant in both personal and public life, using examples from his own experiences as a caregiver and observations of politicians and pundits. [... more]

Faith-based investors can use their ownership to influence companies for good through corporate engagement, a process of talking with company management to encourage better policies and practices on issues that align with their values. [... more]

Freedom is not the same as deliverance, and responsibility is the price tag of freedom. God maintains a balance between deliverance and responsibility, and we must take ownership of our actions to reach our destiny. [... more]

Christian financial advisors can help clients align their values with their financial decisions, leading to a more fulfilling and responsible approach to money management. By prioritizing stewardship and biblical principles, individuals can make informed choices about their finances and create a more secure financial future. [... more]