The Invested Fathers
The Invested Fathers
131: Preparing Your Kids for Life, Not Just College with Stephen St. John
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How do you prepare your kids for adulthood without trying to control every step they take?
In this episode, Kenny sits down with longtime friend, financial advisor, and newly minted empty nester Stephen St. John for a conversation that goes far beyond money.
After helping hundreds of families navigate financial decisions over the past two decades, Stephen shares what he's learned about the investment that matters most: raising children with wisdom, responsibility, and a deep trust rooted in the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
Together, Kenny and Stephen discuss:
- Why your greatest investment may not be in your portfolio—but in your children.
- How to teach kids responsibility without simply handing them everything.
- Practical ways to prepare children financially for college while giving them ownership of the process.
- The power of milestones, father-son trips, and creating moments your children will never forget.
- Lessons learned from launching two sons into adulthood.
- What Stephen wishes every father would remember before his kids leave home.
One of the most powerful moments comes when Stephen answers a simple question:
"If your sons were sitting here today, what would you hope they say they learned from you?"
His answer has very little to do with money—and everything to do with faith, family, and living a life that points to Christ.
Whether your kids are toddlers, teenagers, or already grown, this episode is a reminder that the small investments you make today often become the greatest returns you'll ever experience.
If this episode encouraged you, share it with another dad who is trying to be intentional with his family. Sometimes one conversation can change the trajectory of generations.
Resources mentioned:
- The Intentional Father by Jon Tyson
- The Price You'll Pay for College by Ron Lieber
- Who Gets In and Why by Jeffrey Selingo
- Raising a Modern-Day Knight by Robert Lewis
- REAL Man program with 3 Gen Ministries
Follow Kenny Johnson on social media:
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