Faithful Finance

About Faithful Finance

Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach are the co-hosts of the Faithful Finance Podcast, where practical money management meets biblical wisdom. Emily is a Christian financial planner and author of Faithful Finance, and Alison is a seasoned communicator and ministry leader. Together, they offer honest conversations, real-life stories, and faith-filled guidance to help women navigate finances with clarity, confidence, and peace. Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member SIPC sipc.org

Publisher

Emily Stroud

Category

education · religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Dec 2025

Latest episode

2 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Jul 2026

   Episode 13: 10 Steps to Financial Freedom | Faithful Finance Workshop Part 3

   A Tuesday morning, a heart attack, and a wife who didn't have to worry about money in the middle of it. That's where this episode starts. This episode of the Faithful Finance podcast was recorded live at the Faithful Finance Workshop at Christ Chapel Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Emily and Alison walk through her 10 practical steps to financial freedom — the meaty, implementable framework from her best-selling book, condensed into one live session. From finding the right financial counsel to building your cash reserve to getting your final affairs in order, this episode covers the full roadmap, all through the lens of preparation, not perfection. Emily pulls from 25+ years as a Chartered Financial Analyst to walk through real numbers, real benchmarks, and real talk — including the full story behind that Tuesday morning, and why being prepared meant she never had to worry about the financial side while focusing on what mattered most. What You'll Learn: ➡️ How to find a financial advisor you can actually trust — and the free tool to check their credentials ➡️ Why your budget isn't a noose — it's the roadmap that gives you freedom ➡️ How much you actually need in your cash reserve (the simple math behind it) ➡️ Why automating your savings is the single best practice you can adopt ➡️ How to build an investment plan for retirement, college, and the big dreams ➡️ Why not all debt is bad — and the simple rule of thumb for telling good debt from bad ➡️ What it really means to be properly insured (and the difference between disability and long-term care coverage) ➡️ Why giving generously is one of the best antidotes to financial anxiety ➡️ The most common reason people put off getting a will — and how to finally get it done ➡️ Why every family needs a "house is on fire" binder — and what to put in it Resources: Download Emily's free budget worksheet and life insurance needs worksheet at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs a shame-free place to start their financial journey Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud (https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud (https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud) Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud (https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud) YouTube: /@faithfulfinancepodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast) Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ (https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/) Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com (https://www.greatlightcreative.com) Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

2. 

   18 Jun 2026

   Episode 12: What Are Your Money Beliefs Costing You? - Faithful Finance Workshop Part 2

   Your money habits tend to be rooted in your beliefs about money. This episode of the Faithful Finance podcast was recorded live at the Faithful Finance Workshop at Christ Chapel Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Emily and Alison walk through one of the most powerful exercises from the workshop: an honest self-assessment of the money beliefs driving your financial behavior — and a roadmap for replacing the unhealthy ones with something better. Emily pulls from 25+ years as a Chartered Financial Analyst to name what most people won't: avoidance isn't a neutral choice, it's making your anxiety worse. Whether you're lying awake at 3 AM over bills, arguing with your spouse about money, or telling yourself you'll get a will "someday" — this episode meets you exactly where you are, without judgment, and points you toward a healthier way forward. What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why avoidance is the one response that actually increases financial anxiety — not reduces it ➡️ How to do an honest self-assessment of your own money beliefs (without shame) ➡️ Why the budget isn't punishment — and how it's the thing that finally helps you sleep at night ➡️ What healthy money conversations with your spouse actually look like — and when to bring in a third party ➡️ Why your kids aren't the problem when it comes to entitlement — and what to do about it ➡️ The real reason most people don't have a will (hint: it's not the cost) ➡️ Why giving generously is one of the most powerful antidotes to financial anxiety — even when it doesn't make logical sense ➡️ How comparison is quietly keeping you stuck — and what to put first instead ➡️ Why getting your financial affairs in order is one of the most loving things you can do for your family ➡️ How freedom starts with understanding your own beliefs — and what to do with that once you do Resources: Download Emily's free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs a shame-free place to start their financial journey Connect With Emily: Facebook: / emilygstroud Instagram: / emilygstroud Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud YouTube: / @faithfulfinancepodcast Connect With Alison: Instagram: / amgengelbach Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

3. 

   4 Jun 2026

   Episode 11: Money is Not Evil - Faithful Finance Workshop Part 1

   What does money have to do with your faith? More than most churches are talking about — and that's exactly why Emily Stroud took the stage at Christ Chapel in Fort Worth to say the quiet part out loud. This episode of the Faithful Finance podcast was recorded live at the Faithful Finance Workshop at Christ Chapel Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Emily opens with a bold reframe: managing money isn't just a financial issue — it's a spiritual one. And if you've ever felt guilt, shame, or anxiety around your finances, this episode is the reset you didn't know you needed. Emily draws on 25+ years as a Chartered Financial Analyst to walk through the emotional roots of our money beliefs, why avoidance is a slippery slope, and what it actually means to steward your resources in a way that honors God — and blesses the people you love most. What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why this workshop isn't about getting rich fast — and what it actually is about ➡️ How money affects your spiritual life and discipleship, whether you realize it or not ➡️ Why nearly everyone — regardless of income — has an emotional issue tied to money ➡️ How your family of origin shaped your money beliefs and behaviors more than you think ➡️ Why your kids already know how you feel about money — and what legacy you're passing down ➡️ How to identify the core money myths that are keeping you stuck ➡️ Why "money is the root of all evil" is a misquote — and what the Bible actually says ➡️ The difference between loving money and stewarding it wisely ➡️ Why financial freedom and generosity go hand in hand ➡️ How to stop letting money manage you — and start managing it with intention and peace Resources: Download Emily's free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs a shame-free place to start their financial journey Connect With Emily: Facebook:  / emilygstroud Instagram:  / emilygstroud Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud YouTube:  / @faithfulfinancepodcast Connect With Alison: Instagram:  / amgengelbach Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

4. 

   7 May 2026

   Episode 10: How To Make An Estate Plan

   If the thought of writing a will or setting up an estate plan keeps getting pushed to the bottom of your to-do list — this episode is the one that finally gets you to do something about it. In this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach wrap up the "10 Secrets" series with Secret #10: How to Create an Estate Plan. Emily makes the case that estate planning isn't morbid — it's one of the most loving, practical things you can do for the people you care about most. From wills and guardianship to powers of attorney, beneficiary designations, and trusts, Emily breaks down what you actually need, when to get professional help, and how to organize everything so your family isn't scrambling in the middle of grief. She also shares deeply personal stories about caring for her own parents — using financial and medical powers of attorney in real-time — that make this conversation feel urgent, not theoretical. She also walks through her legendary "house is on fire binder" and shares what Warren Buffett and Shaquille O'Neal have taught their kids about money, work ethic, and inheritance. What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why estate planning isn't just for the wealthy — and why it's one of the greatest gifts you can leave your family ➡️ What a will does (and doesn't) control — and why you absolutely need one if you have children ➡️ How to name a guardian for your kids and why separating the guardian from the trustee is often the wisest move ➡️ Why beneficiary designations on life insurance and retirement accounts override your will — and the costly mistake people make by never updating them ➡️ What a financial power of attorney and medical power of attorney are — and how Emily used both when caring for her parents ➡️ How to organize everything into one "house is on fire binder" your family can grab and go in any crisis ➡️ Why most people won't owe estate tax — but still need a thoughtful plan ➡️ What the unlimited marital deduction means and when estate tax actually becomes a concern ➡️ When a simple will and online forms are enough — and when you need an estate planning attorney, CPA, and financial advisor working together ➡️ How trusts let you "manage from the grave" — setting conditions that encourage work ethic, maturity, and wise stewardship ➡️ What Warren Buffett and Shaquille O'Neal's approaches to inheritance can teach the rest of us ➡️ How to think about funeral expenses and pre-planning so your family isn't scrambling financially on the hardest day Resources: Download Emily's free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who keeps putting off their estate plan Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ (https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud (https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud)/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud (https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast) Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ (https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/) Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com (https://www.greatlightcreative.com) Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

5. 

   23 Apr 2026

   Episode: 9 How to Save for College

   If paying for college feels like a mountain you're not sure you can climb — or one you haven't started climbing yet — this episode is exactly for you. In this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach dive into Secret #9: How to Save for College, Emily brings both professional wisdom and personal experience to this conversation — she's currently navigating college with her own daughter — and breaks down how to think about college savings strategically, faithfully, and without the fear. From 529 plans to scholarship strategy, from managing your kids' expectations to making sure retirement doesn't take a back seat, Emily makes one of the biggest financial decisions of your life feel a whole lot more approachable. She also shares the full story of how her daughter ended up at the University of Kentucky — and why turning down a near-full ride to a smaller school was actually the right call. What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why education is "the great equalizer" — and how the "teach them to fish" principle applies to college planning ➡️ Why retirement savings must come before college savings — and the one thing you can't get a loan for ➡️ How to have the college money conversation with your kids early (and why managing expectations is a gift, not a letdown) ➡️ What a 529 plan is, how it works, and why it's one of the best tax-advantaged tools available for education savings ➡️ The new 529 rules that let you use funds for private K–12 tuition (up to $10,000/year) ➡️ What to do if your child doesn't use all their 529 funds — including the new option to roll up to $35,000 into a Roth IRA ➡️ How to calculate how much you actually need to save using savingforcollege.com ➡️ Why "the first letter isn't the final offer" — and how everything in the college admissions process is negotiable ➡️ How to give your kids "skin in the game" through scholarships, part-time work, and ownership over their own future ➡️ Why AP classes in high school can shave semesters (and serious money) off your college bill ➡️ How to evaluate colleges like a business decision — weighing cost, major fit, logistics, and scholarship potential ➡️ Why there's no single right path — trade school, community college, conservatories, and the military are all valid options ➡️ Why starting to save at birth is the ideal — and what to do if you're starting later Resources: Download Emily's free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who's feeling overwhelmed about paying for college Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

6. 

   9 Apr 2026

   Episode 8: Is It Ever Too Late To Save For Retirement?

   If the word "retirement" makes you want to close the tab and deal with it later, this episode is exactly for you. In this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach dive into Secret #8: The Faithful Invest for Retirement. Emily breaks down the intimidating world of retirement investing into clear, practical steps anyone can take — whether you're 25 or 55. From compound interest to dollar cost averaging, from 401(k) matching to the 10-10-10-70 budget model, Emily makes retirement planning feel less like a trip to the principal's office and more like a conversation around the kitchen table. She also covers estate planning essentials — including the "house is on fire" binder every family needs — and reminds listeners that your financial past does not have to define your financial future. What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why your 30s and 40s are exactly the right time to start thinking about retirement ➡️ The 10-10-10-70 budget model and how to use it to build real financial momentum ➡️ The difference between compound interest and capital appreciation — and why it matters ➡️ What dollar cost averaging is and why it's one of the most powerful investing strategies ➡️ How to use diversification to protect your portfolio from volatility ➡️ Why 401(k) and 403(b) plans are one of the best wealth-building tools available to you ➡️ What to do if you're 45 with nothing saved — and why today is still the right day to start ➡️ How to build a retirement budget that reflects your actual lifestyle (not your current one) ➡️ The 4% rule and how to turn your savings into a sustainable income stream ➡️ Why owning your home free and clear before retirement is a game-changer ➡️ The emotional side of retiring — and how to transition well from accumulation to annuitization ➡️ Why "fun jobs" in retirement can protect your health, your mind, and your budget ➡️ How to create an estate plan and why beneficiary designations trump your will ➡️ The "house is on fire" binder — and why every family needs one Resources: Download Emily’s free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily’s Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement about debt Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated.Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA’s BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

7. 

   26 Mar 2026

   Episode 7: Investing In Real Estate

   What if the key to building lasting wealth is already sitting right under your roof? In this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach dive into Secret #7: The Faithful Invest Wisely in Real Estate. With a blend of humor, personal stories, and deep financial expertise, Emily walks listeners through exactly how to buy a home with wisdom, discipline, and confidence — without letting emotion drive the decision. Drawing from her banking background and years of buying, renovating, and selling homes, Emily makes one of life's biggest financial decisions feel approachable, practical, and grounded in biblical truth. From the 25% affordability rule to the tax-free wealth-building potential of your primary residence, this episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking about buying, selling, upgrading, downsizing, or simply wanting to understand how to steward real estate well. What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why you should never look at a house you can't afford — and what to do first ➡️ How to determine exactly how much house you can realistically afford ➡️ The 25% rule for housing costs and why it protects your entire financial plan ➡️ What property taxes, HOA fees, and utilities actually add to your monthly payment ➡️ How to evaluate a fixer upper vs. a new build — and why you always need a cushion ➡️ The major tax advantages of your primary residence ($250K–$500K tax-free profit) ➡️ When renting makes more sense than buying — and when it doesn't ➡️ The difference between a 30-year mortgage, 15-year mortgage, and an ARM ➡️ How to avoid becoming "house poor" and what that actually looks like ➡️ Why you should never buy a new home before selling your current one ➡️ How Emily and her husband used real estate repeatedly to build wealth tax-free ➡️ The biblical principle of counting the cost before you build — straight from Luke 14:28 Resources: Download Emily's free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who is thinking about buying a home Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

8. 

   12 Mar 2026

   Episode 6: The Risk Nobody Talks About

   What if preparing for the worst is actually one of the most loving things you can do for your family? In this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach dive into Secret #6: The faithful insure themselves against disaster. Through deeply personal stories—Emily's mother's decade-long battle with dementia, her father's heart attack, and her husband's emergency heart surgery—this conversation makes the case that insurance isn't about fear. It's about love, stewardship, and protecting the people you cherish most before a crisis arrives. Emily breaks down the three pillars of disaster protection: disability insurance (often the most overlooked), life insurance (for both spouses—including stay-at-home parents), and long-term care insurance (the one that can quietly wipe out a lifetime of retirement savings). She explains exactly what Medicare does—and critically, what it doesn't—cover, and why waiting until you "need" insurance is often too late. The episode closes with a reminder that while earthly insurance protects our finances, there's an even deeper assurance available through faith in Christ—an eternal insurance that provides hope no matter what storms come. What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why disability insurance is often more critical than life insurance ➡️ How disability can be more financially devastating than death ➡️ When and how to sign up for short-term and long-term disability at work ➡️ The difference between term life and permanent life insurance—and which fits most families ➡️ Why stay-at-home parents absolutely need life insurance too ➡️ How to calculate how much life insurance your family actually needs ➡️ What long-term care insurance covers—and why it matters so much in your 50s and 60s ➡️ Why Medicare does NOT pay for assisted living, nursing homes, or memory care ➡️ How Emily's mother's 11-year dementia journey illustrates the real cost of care ➡️ Why getting insurance when you're young and healthy is always the right move ➡️ How proper planning lets you focus on loved ones—not finances—during a crisis ➡️ The spiritual anchor: faith in Christ as our ultimate "eternal insurance" Resources: Download Emily’s free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily’s Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement about debt Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA’s BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

9. 

   26 Feb 2026

   Episode 5: Is All Debt Bad?

   Short answer, no. In this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach bring clarity to one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of money management. Emily shares a balanced, nuanced perspective: not all debt is bad, but it must be approached with wisdom, discipline, and a realistic plan. She explains the difference between wealth-building debt (like a responsibly purchased home or a business loan that produces income) and consumer debt that quietly drains your future (credit cards, car loans, “cash-quick” paycheck advances, and store credit cards). You’ll hear practical examples—from buying a dental practice to building credit intentionally—and why “if it floats or has wheels, it’s not an investment.” Emily also walks through six healthy habits to help you stop impulse spending, avoid debt traps, and create freedom with a budget, savings, and smart boundaries (including her famous “freeze the credit card in a block of ice” strategy). If debt has you feeling stuck, ashamed, or overwhelmed, this conversation will help you trade fear for confident control—one faithful step at a time. What You’ll Learn: ➡️ Why Emily believes not all debt is bad—and when it can be wise ➡️ The difference between good debt (leverage) and bad debt (consumer traps) ➡️ Why mortgages and some business loans can build long-term stability ➡️ Why cars, boats, and dinners are expenses—not investments ➡️ How to approach student loans responsibly after graduation ➡️ How credit cards can help (or hurt) depending on how you use them ➡️ Why paying your credit card in full every month is non-negotiable ➡️ How to build credit wisely (including the “authorized user” strategy) ➡️ Why payday loans and cash advances can create a vicious cycle ➡️ Six healthy habits to conquer debt and stop impulse spending ➡️ Why Emily says: never cosign a loan—even for family ➡️ How to help a loved one financially without harming the relationship Resources: Download Emily’s free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources) Buy Emily’s Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement about debt Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ (https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ (https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/) Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud (https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud)YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast) Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ (https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/) Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com (https://www.greatlightcreative.com) Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA’s BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

10. 

    12 Feb 2026

    Episode 4: If You're Afraid To Start Giving, Listen To This.

    Giving when money is tight sounds crazy, right? But in this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and Alison Gengelbach tackle one of the most misunderstood and controversial topics in personal finance: tithing and generous giving. Emily reframes giving not as a religious obligation or prosperity gospel, but as an act of worship and faith. Grounded in biblical principles, she explains why tithing is less about rules (10% net vs. gross?) and more about the posture of your heart toward God and others. You'll hear honest conversation about the blessings of generosity, why you can't outgive God (and what that really means), and how to start giving even when your budget feels tight. Emily and Alison share personal stories—including a powerful reflection on the woman with the alabaster box—and tackle the hard questions: What if I can barely pay my bills? Does volunteering count as tithing? What about giving to nonprofits beyond the church? What You'll Learn: ➡️ Why tithing is an act of worship, not a religious tax ➡️ The biblical foundation for generous giving ➡️ How to start giving when your budget is tight ➡️ Whether to tithe on gross or net income ➡️ The difference between tithes and offerings ➡️ How to include giving in your monthly budget ➡️ Why automating contributions builds consistency ➡️ The blessings of giving (and why they're not always monetary) ➡️ How to give as a couple with unity and intentionality ➡️ What to do when you're the one who needs to receive help ➡️ Why giving of your time can feel more sacrificial than money Resources: Download Emily's free budget worksheet and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement about giving Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

11. 

    29 Jan 2026

    Episode 3: Creating a Budget and Cash Reserves

    If more money is going out than coming in, it's time to take a good look at your spending. In this episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, Emily Stroud and her dear friend Alison Gengelbach tackle one of the most foundational and misunderstood tools in personal finance: the budget. Emily reframes budgeting not as punishment or restriction, but as clarity and freedom. Grounded in Proverbs 21:5, she explains why planning isn’t just practical, it’s biblical. Together, Emily and Alison normalize the discomfort people feel around money conversations and replace shame with honesty, grace, and actionable steps forward. You’ll hear a step-by-step breakdown of how to build a realistic budget that reflects real life, from housing and groceries to pets, vacations, Christmas, hobbies, and even Botox. Emily shares why every dollar needs an assignment, how discretionary spending can actually reduce conflict in marriage, and why couples must build a budget together to improve communication and unity. The conversation gets especially practical as Emily explains how to calculate a proper cash reserve, why three months of living expenses (not income) is the goal, and how automating savings and tithing “off the top” changes everything. Emily also walks through what to do when the math doesn’t work, when spending exceeds income, and outlines the hard but hopeful path forward: spending less, earning more, or a combination of both. From negotiating utility bills and grocery audits to side hustles, leftovers, and family dinners around the table, this episode is packed with real-life examples that make budgeting feel doable, not daunting. This episode is a powerful reminder that financial peace doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through awareness, discipline, faith, and a plan—so you can move from anxiety and overwhelm to confidence, margin, and peace. What You’ll Learn: ➡️ Why a budget is a roadmap—not a restriction ➡️ The biblical foundation for planning and diligence ➡️ How to start a budget when you don’t know where your money is going ➡️ Why couples should create a budget together to reduce conflict ➡️ How to calculate a proper cash reserve (and why it’s based on expenses, not income) ➡️ Why you should “pay yourself first” and automate savings ➡️ How tithing fits into a faithful financial plan ➡️ Common budget blind spots like dining out, credit cards, holidays, and vacations ➡️ What to do when you’re spending more than you make ➡️ Practical ways to cut expenses without lowering your quality of life ➡️ How boundaries around money improve marriages and family peace Resources: Download Emily’s free budget worksheet (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources) and other practical tools at: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources) Buy Emily’s Book: Purchase Faithful Finance (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who feels overwhelmed by money Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ (https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ (https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/) Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud (https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast) Connect With Alison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ (https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/) Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com (https://www.greatlightcreative.com/) Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative. Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA’s BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org | www.FINRA.org (http://www.finra.org/) | www.SIPC.org (http://www.sipc.org/) | Form CRS

12. 

    15 Jan 2026

    Episode 2: Seek Wise Counsel

    Financial worry is loud. But it doesn’t have to be the voice leading your life. In this episode, Emily Stroud and her dear friend Alison Gengelbach  answer a big question: what is a financial adviser… and how do you know who to trust? Emily frames the conversation around "wise counsel" as a biblical principle rooted in Proverbs: plans fail without counsel, but succeed with many advisers. Together, Emily and Alison normalize asking for help, both from God and from qualified professionals, so you can stop spiraling about the future and start building a plan with peace. You’ll hear practical guidance on how to find the right adviser, what credentials actually matter, and how to do a quick background check through FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Emily also shares why she views herself as the “quarterback” of your financial team, doing things like coordinating insurance, estate planning, and long-term strategy so you’re not trying to piece it all together alone. The heart of the episode turns personal as Emily and Alison talk candidly about grief, loss, and life’s “fire seasons,” including Emily’s husband’s sudden heart attack and how having protections in place (like life and disability insurance) gave her the freedom to focus on family—not financial panic. This episode sets the foundation for the series: shame-free, faith-filled, and practical—so you can move from confusion and fear to clarity, confidence, and rest. What You’ll Learn: ➡️ What a financial adviser actually does (and why you don’t have to do this alone) ➡️ The biblical case for “wise counsel” and how it reduces financial anxiety ➡️ How to find a trustworthy adviser, starting with referrals from people you trust ➡️ How to use FINRA BrokerCheck to verify licenses and check for complaints or lawsuits ➡️ Which credentials matter (MBA, CFA, CFP) and what they typically indicate ➡️ When you should reach out for help: new seasons, new beginnings, and “wake-up moments” ➡️ Why insurance and foundational planning must happen before a crisis hits ➡️ How a financial plan can reduce stress and strengthen communication in marriage ➡️ Why there’s “no shame in this game” and how small choices add up over time Resources: Visit faithfulfinance.com for free tools and practical guides to help you take your next step: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources) Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who could use peace around their finances Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ (https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ (https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/) Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud (https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast) Connect With Allison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ (https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/) Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com (https://www.greatlightcreative.com/) Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated.Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA’s BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org www.FINRA.org (http://www.finra.org/) | www.SIPC.org (http://www.sipc.org/) | Form CRS

13. 

    1 Jan 2026

    Episode 1: Why Faithful Finance Matters

    Financial stress has become epidemic, but it doesn’t have to define your life. In this episode, Emily Stroud practices what she preaches by inviting listeners into her home and into the heart behind the Faithful Finance podcast. Every financial journey has a story. In this opening episode, Emily shares hers: how more than 25 years in financial services, countless conversations over coffee, and one life-altering medical crisis shaped her conviction that crisis is the worst time to start financial planning. Through the story of her husband’s sudden heart attack, Emily explains why financial planning isn’t theoretical; it’s deeply personal. Because foundational protections were already in place, she was able to focus on her family instead of financial panic. That moment clarified her mission: to help people move from fear and confusion around money to peace, clarity, and confidence before life falls apart. This episode sets the tone for the entire season and invites listeners into a practical, shame-free approach to money rooted in wisdom, stewardship, and faith. What You’ll Learn: ➡️ Why financial stress feels overwhelming for so many people. ➡️ Why crisis is the worst time to start financial planning. ➡️ The foundational protections every family needs. ➡️ How to move from fear to confidence around money. ➡️ Why your financial past doesn’t define your future. ➡️ How to begin finding trustworthy financial counsel. Resources: Visit faithfulfinance.com for free tools and practical guides to help you take your next step: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources Buy Emily's Book: Purchase Faithful Finance (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) by Emily Stroud on her website: https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/ Support the Show: ✅ Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode ✍️ Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share this episode with someone who could use peace around their finances Connect With Emily: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/ (https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ (https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/) Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud (https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast) Connect With Allison: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/ (https://www.instagram.com/amgengelbach/) Credits: A Faithful Finance production. Executive Producer: Emily Stroud Produced by Greatlight Creative: https://www.greatlightcreative.com Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated.Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA’s BrokerCheck: BrokerCheck.FINRA.org www.FINRA.org | www.SIPC.org | Form CRS

14. 

    22 Dec 2025

    Faithful Finance Podcast: Finding Peace and Confidence With Money

    Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or uncertain when it comes to your finances? In this introductory episode of the Faithful Finance podcast, financial advisor Emily Stroud shares why so many families struggle with fear around money and how faith-centered financial planning can bring clarity, peace, and confidence. With more than 25 years of experience as a financial advisor, Emily walks alongside families navigating real-life financial concerns such as protecting loved ones if something unexpected happens, planning for children’s education, preparing for disability or loss of income, and supporting aging parents. As a wife and mom herself, Emily understands that financial decisions are never just about numbers. They are about people, purpose, and peace of mind. This episode introduces the heart behind the Faithful Finance podcast and the principles Emily shares in her best-selling book, Faithful Finance. Together with her dear friend Alison Ginglebach, Emily invites listeners into honest, practical, and faith-filled conversations about stewarding money wisely while trusting God fully. If you are looking for Christian financial guidance, biblical money principles, or a more peaceful approach to personal finance, this podcast is for you. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Why financial anxiety is so common for families today The most common money fears that keep people awake at night How faith and financial planning can work together Why you do not have to live in fear when it comes to money What to expect from future episodes of the Faithful Finance podcast Who This Podcast Is For: Christians seeking faith-based financial guidance Parents planning for their family’s future Individuals worried about income protection, insurance, or disability Families caring for aging parents Anyone who wants peace, clarity, and confidence with money Resources: Faithful Finance book by Emily Stroud (https://faithfulfinance.com/resources/) Subscribe and Connect: Subscribe to the Faithful Finance podcast for weekly conversations on Christian money management, biblical stewardship, and practical financial planning. Share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement and remember that you do not have to navigate money alone. Follow Emily Stroud: On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/ (https://www.instagram.com/emilygstroud/) On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud (https://www.facebook.com/EmilyGStroud) On Threads: https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud (https://www.threads.com/@emilygstroud) On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast (https://www.youtube.com/@faithfulfinancepodcast) © COPYRIGHT 2025 | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Emily G. Stroud, LLC Emily G. Stroud, MBA, CFA is a Registered Representative Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC to residents of: TX, UT, WV, NY, OK, PA, SC, TN, AR, AZ, GA, ID, IL, KY, MT, and NC. Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated. Cambridge and Emily G. Stroud, LLC are also not affiliated. Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA’s BrokerCheck: (http://brokercheck.finra.org/)BrokerCheck.FINRA.org (https://brokercheck.finra.org/) www.FINRA.org (https://www.finra.org/#/) | www.SIPC.org (https://www.sipc.org/) | Form CRS (https://www.joincambridge.com/investors/cambridge-disclosures/form-crs/)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

8 ratings