LEVERAGE
STUDY GUIDE
Stories
Crawford Loritts shares powerful lessons learned about generosity, inspired by his parents’ example of giving even during financial hardship. He reflects on his own practice of giving during college, connecting it to worship and faith. Using a theological illustration, Crawford emphasizes the significance of giving and trusting God as the ultimate provider.
John and Jessica Gibson share their transformative journey from poverty to wealth, shaped by their humble beginnings and Christian faith. As their financial status grew from $10,000 to millions, they embraced tithing as a spiritual obligation, inspired by a spiritually mature spouse. Reflecting on past struggles, they credit teachings from Blue Trust with helping them navigate life’s challenges and find joy in giving.
Brian Shepler, President & CEO of Blue Trust
Brian’s journey began with a college music scholarship, but a sense of regret led him to seek a new direction. A call from the financial aid office about a trust with specific criteria prompted a switch to math and economics. After an internship at Goldman Sachs, he joined a firm in Chicago with a kingdom-focused vision. Throughout his journey, Brian has continually sought God’s guidance through personal time, scripture, friendships, and life’s circumstances.Dave and Barb Emrich
Dave and Barb share their journey from non-believers to committed Christians, where they found financial unity through faith. They reflect on the challenges of living on a single income, building wealth, and planning for retirement, while emphasizing the importance of using their talents beyond just financial giving. Active in marriage mentoring and helping others, they also collaborate with the Everyday Steward group and are excited about their future investments.Anehita Chie shares her journey from growing up in Nigeria to her role at Blue Trusts, where she transitioned from compliance to working directly with high-net-worth families. She emphasizes the vital role advisors play in managing wealth and encourages a broader, more purposeful perspective. For Anehita, working at Blue Trusts provides the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Marshall and Janice Potter’s journey from living paycheck-to-paycheck in Puerto Rico to financial stewardship was shaped by a friend at the University of Illinois and their parents’ simple lifestyle. Inspired by Austin Pryor’s book and an internship at Ronald Blue and Company, they now focus on generosity and using their resources for kingdom work, finding joy in giving.
Evan Longstreth, Managing Director, Eastern Division, Blue Trust
Evan shares his journey from high school to becoming a financial advisor, focusing on the power of generosity. He discusses his mission to help clients unpack their financial plans and increase their giving through donor-advised funds. Highlighting a success story, Evan demonstrates the positive impact of generosity, while emphasizing the importance of teaching others about giving and the training provided by his firm.
John and Teri Hall
A couple in ministry shares their story of financial struggles and how they overcame them. They learned to determine necessary expenses and give beyond their needs, experiencing blessings from the Lord. They emphasize the importance of setting an example, having an eternal perspective, and using resources for God’s work.
Erik Daniels shares his life story, beginning with his upbringing in a large Catholic family and his transformative travels in Europe during college. His conversion to Christianity profoundly shaped his life and career choices, leading him to join Blue Trust. Erik reflects on the challenges of financial security and emphasizes the importance of giving. He advocates for serving clients with purpose, passion, and generosity.
Claiborne Haw,
Family Legacy Advisor, Blue Trust
Claiborne assists ultra high net worth families with complex resources. Coming from a family business background, she focuses on family dynamics, empathizing with the third generation in wealthy families. Claiborne encourages the next generation to excel in areas beyond wealth and emphasize the importance of intentionality in fostering stronger relationships, connections, and generosity.
Bill and Alison Ibsen share their journey with money, from a childhood marked by scarcity to a life of generosity shaped by Christian principles. They reflect on experiences of poverty, the support from their church and grandfather, and the challenges of balancing identity with job and faith. Grateful for the financial wisdom they received, they’ve found freedom in managing wealth for giving. Their story highlights the importance of generosity and the complexities of navigating finances and identity.
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