Taking the “Awkward” out of financial conversations with family

Some of the most important conversations in a family are often the ones we avoid.

Money. Generosity. Stewardship. Legacy.

Not because we don't care—but because they can feel awkward.

Pam and I realized that while our kids had watched us live out many of our values over the years, we'd never intentionally sat down and explained the why. We hadn't shared many of the family stories that shaped our beliefs about stewardship, generosity, and the responsibility that comes with what God has entrusted to us.

So this past week, we invited our family together.

Four generations around one table.

Our goal wasn't to talk about inheritances or investments. It was to pass on a blessing, honor Pam's parents, and begin passing along the values we hope will outlive us.

We shared stories. We talked about the principles that guide our family's giving. We introduced a vision for how our kids and grandkids can become active participants in generosity in the years ahead.

Was it perfect? Not even close.

But perfection wasn't the goal.

Starting the conversation was.

If you're waiting for the "perfect time" to talk with your kids or grandkids about stewardship, generosity, and the values you hope define your family, don't wait. The first conversation may feel a little awkward—but it opens the door to a lifetime of meaningful ones.

A special thank you to Jack Hansen and the Hansen Wealth Management Group for walking alongside us during this conversation, and to Bill High of https://legacystone.com/ for helping us think deeply about building a family legacy rooted in values, faith, and stewardship.

The greatest inheritance we leave our family may not be what we accumulate—but the values we intentionally pass on.