MoneyDad Podcast

Hold It in Your Hand: Using Physical Gold and Silver to Teach Kids About Real Money | Dana Samuelson

#087. What if the best way to teach your kids about money isn't a piggy bank or a savings account — but a silver coin they can hold in their hand? In this episode, Justin sits down with Dana Samuelson, president of American Gold Exchange and a 45-year veteran of the precious metals industry, for a conversation that will change the way you think about gold, silver, and how to pass real financial wisdom on to your kids. Dana and Justin cover: Why gold and silver aren't investments — they're a savings technology, and why that distinction matters The history of gold as money, and why most North Americans have lost touch with precious metals culture Why central banks around the world are buying gold at record levels — and what that signals for everyday families The macro forces currently driving gold and silver prices, including debt, de-dollarization, and geopolitical tension The growing counterfeit problem in the physical metals market and how to protect yourself Why a one-ounce silver coin is one of the most powerful financial teaching tools a parent can put in their child's hands Physical gold and silver vs. ETFs — and when each makes sense The stepped-up cost basis advantage of passing precious metals on to your heirs Justin also shares how this conversation inspired him to take his own kids to their local gold and silver dealer — and convert their savings into Canadian Silver Maple Leafs as a hands-on money lesson. Whether you're a seasoned precious metals investor or have never owned an ounce of gold in your life, this episode is essential listening for any parent who wants to raise financially literate kids. Connect with Dana Samuelson: American Gold Exchange — amergold.com | info@amergold.com Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session087 Support the show

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What Owning a Business Really Teaches Our Kids About Money | Jon Ostenson

#086. Most parents think about building wealth through savings, investments, or real estate. But what if one of the most powerful financial literacy tools you could give your kids was a business they could actually see working in real time? In this episode, Justin sits down with Jon Ostenson, founder of FranBridge Consulting and one of the top franchise consultants in the US, to explore how business ownership — specifically non-food franchising — can be both a wealth-building vehicle and a live classroom for the next generation. Jon shares how leaving the corporate world changed not just his income, but the money conversations he has with his kids. From paying his children through the business and building them a tax-advantaged nest egg, to teaching his son about the marketing funnel on the school run — Jon is doing exactly what MoneyDad is all about: making real money lessons part of everyday life. In this episode we cover: Why business ownership changes your relationship with money in ways investing alone never does The non-food franchise categories seeing the most momentum right now What "franchise stacking" is and how families are using it to build diversified income streams How some parents are buying franchises specifically for their kids to operate — acting as the capital partner while the franchisor provides the support system Franchise vs. buying an existing independent business The one money lesson Jon believes every parent should be teaching their kids right now Whether you're seriously considering business ownership or just starting to think about it, this conversation will challenge how you think about wealth, lifestyle, and what you're modelling for your children. Resources mentioned: FranBridge Consulting: franbridgeconsulting.com Free download: Non-Food Franchising by Jon Ostenson (available at franbridgeconsulting.com) Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session086 Support the show

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Job at 14, Confidence at 40: Building Financial Independence in Girls Early | Lisa Clements

#085. In this episode, Justin sits down with Lisa Clements, founder of Clear Springs Wealth and a former corporate HR leader at Meta and Accenture, who left a nearly 24-year corporate career to help single women build wealth on their own terms. Lisa brings both professional expertise and lived experience — she's built significant financial independence as a single woman herself, and that perspective shapes everything she teaches. We dig into why Lisa believes girls need the same expectation boys often get by default: get a job in high school, start managing your own money, and make your money mistakes while you're still under your parents' roof — not for the first time in a college dorm. Lisa shares real stories from her own family and clients about what happens when daughters are — or aren't — brought into financial conversations early, including why opening up the family budget at 14 can build confidence instead of anxiety. We also cover: Why Lisa sees "learned helplessness" show up differently in women around money — and how to tell if it's authentic or a self-protective story The decision-making frameworks she teaches clients (and her nieces and nephews) for big money choices — the timeline test, the flexibility filter, and the future-self test How everyday moments — a disputed grade, a tough coach conversation, friend drama — are actually financial advocacy training in disguise What the Stanford marshmallow experiment gets wrong, and what it means for how we build financial patience in kids Practical, low-pressure ways to start a money conversation with your daughter this week Whether you're raising a daughter, a son, or both, this conversation offers a clear-eyed look at where financial confidence really comes from — and how small, early experiences with money and self-advocacy compound over a lifetime. Connect with Lisa: Website: clearspringswealth.com Instagram/TikTok/YouTube: @clearspringswealth Email: lisa@clearspringswealth.com Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session085 Support the show

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Money Is a Game: Are You Teaching Your Kids the Right Rules? | Rebecca Irey

#084. What if everything we were taught about money was designed to keep you dependent — on debt, on social security, on a system that was never built for your family's success? Rebecca Irey grew up watching her family lose a 3,000-acre South Dakota ranch during the Farm Aid crisis of the 1980s — not because they didn't work hard, but because they didn't know the rules of the financial game. Her father was brilliant and driven, but when things went sideways, he didn't know how to pivot. Wealthy families do. And that one difference changes everything. Rebecca is the founder and CEO of Blue Sky Financial, a certified financial fiduciary, PhD, homeschooling mom of seven, and grandmother of six, who is on a mission to change the financial trajectory of American families — moving them away from dependence on broken systems and toward true legacy wealth and financial independence. In this episode, Justin and Rebecca cover: Why the financial system is designed to create workers — and how to raise kids who think differently The importance of building a financial foundation first, so everything above it can be aggressive, experimental, and bold Why there is almost no point in life where you cannot start over — and why starting early makes it nearly impossible to fail How Rebecca teaches her seven children to become their own safety net, and the vision-casting technique that makes saving feel exciting at any age Why debt is not the enemy — and how wealthy families use it as a tool to build wealth rather than spend it The testing strategy that can give your kids up to two years of college credit before they ever step on a campus — debt-free The retirement tax time bomb hiding in your IRA — and why Roth conversions may be the most important financial move you're not making Why the market always comes back — but why that's cold comfort if your timing is wrong The story behind the name Blue Skye Financial, and why every family deserves someone in their corner when life knocks them down Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session084 Support the show

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The Internet Changed Everything. Now Money Is Next | Matthew Le Merle

#083. What if the financial system your kids inherit looks nothing like the one you grew up with? According to Silicon Valley venture capitalist Matthew Le Merle, that's not a hypothetical - it's already happening. Matthew is the co-founder of Fifth Era and Blockchain Coinvestors, and has backed over 750 blockchain and AI companies, including 75+ unicorns. In this episode, he breaks down why the digitalization of money is the next great transformation — and what it means for parents raising kids today. We cover: Why blockchain is to finance what the internet was to communication - and why you don't need to understand the technology to benefit from it How to invest in innovation the right way, including why venture capital follows a power curve, not a normal distribution The money values Matthew and his wife Allison passed on to their five kids - and why "money is energy" is the framework that changed how he thinks about wealth Why the skills that will matter most in an AI-powered world aren't content-based - they are creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to keep learning The real reason your kids are better positioned for the future of finance than you are Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session083 Support the show

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Boring Investing Wins: What Every Parent Needs to Know | Robert Rolih

#082. What if the financial industry has been quietly working against you all along? In this episode, Justin sits down with Robert Rolih - international bestselling author of The Million Dollar Decision and long-term investing mentor to clients in over 73 countries — to unpack the hidden forces draining everyday investors' wealth and the refreshingly simple strategies that actually work. Robert shares his personal story of building a business from the ground up in Slovenia, only to lose most of his profits by blindly trusting financial advisors. That wake-up call sent him on a mission to master personal finance — and what he discovered changed everything. In this episode, you'll learn: Why a seemingly small 1% management fee can cost you over $1 million by retirement The only investment products worth your money (and the ones to avoid completely) Why the simplest investing strategy outperforms most professionals — including Warren Buffett How to build a stress-free, long-term portfolio without following the news Robert's practical framework for teaching your kids about money, investing, and delayed gratification Why keeping your children off social media might be one of the smartest financial parenting moves you make Whether you're just starting your investing journey or looking to simplify what you already have, Robert's message is clear: investing doesn't have to be complicated — and the industry's dirty secret is that it never was. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session082 Support the show

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Discover Your Investor DNA: The Framework That Stops Kids From Making Your Money Mistakes | Russ Morgan

#081. What if the best investment for your kid has nothing to do with what worked for you? In this episode, Justin sits down with Russ Morgan, co-founder of Wealth Without Wall Street and host of the Wealth Without Wall Street Podcast, to unpack one of the most overlooked concepts in building family wealth — Investor DNA. Russ grew up in a home where money was scarce, watched his mom freeze her credit cards in a block of ice to avoid spending, and stumbled into the financial advisory world just in time to have everything he thought he knew blown up by the 2008 financial crisis. That reset sent him on a mission to find a better path — one that doesn't require waiting 30 years to start living. In this conversation, Justin and Russ explore: Investor DNA — why every person, including your kids, is wired to invest in different ways, and how discovering that early can prevent decades of costly mistakes The financial freedom formula — passive income greater than monthly expenses, and how to use that simple scoreboard to make smarter decisions with every dollar The "just try" mindset — why imperfect action beats perfect paralysis, and why the best investors hit singles, not home runs Real-world passive income for kids — from vending machines to short-term rentals, how to get your kids building income streams before they even leave high school Why passive doesn't mean hands-off — the front-end work that separates successful investors from disappointed ones The family time you can't get back — why financial freedom isn't just a money goal, it's a parenting one Whether you're just starting to think about building passive income or you're already on that path, this episode will give you a fresh framework for how to think about money — and how to pass the right lessons on to your kids before the wrong ones take hold. Resources mentioned: WealthwithoutWallStreet.com/moneydad Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session081 Support the show

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The Mars Method: The Saving Habit That Helped Her Son Buy a House at 24 | Deb Kierstead

#080. In this episode, Justin sits down with Deb Kierstead - educator, homeschooling pioneer, and creator of the Live Skills Money programs — to talk about why most kids graduate without the financial skills they actually need in life, and what parents can do about it right now. Deb shares her framework for building real money confidence in kids of any age, the three saving strategies she teaches (including the Mars Method — her favourite), and why budgeting is actually about freedom, not restriction. Her son used these habits to buy his own home at 24. This episode is the playbook. What you'll learn: Why financial habits start locking in by age 7 The three-question spending test that eliminates guilt How to model healthy money habits even if you didn't grow up with them Why good debt and bad debt are conversations worth having with your 8-year-old Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session080 Support the show

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Work Less, Parent Better: How AI Is Freeing Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurs | Peter Swain

#079. In this episode, Justin sits down with Peter Swain — serial entrepreneur, AI strategist, and dad of two — to explore how artificial intelligence is radically reshaping the world of business, parenting, and financial freedom. Peter has spent his career at the cutting edge of disruptive technology, from building some of Europe's earliest websites and working directly with Steve Jobs, to now advising entrepreneurs and organizations around the world on harnessing AI without losing their humanity. And his message is clear: when it comes to AI, there is no middle ground. There's a thrive option and a die option — and the clock is ticking. In this episode, you'll learn: Why AI is not optional for entrepreneurs and what "thrive or die" really means for your business and your family's financial future The four levels of AI adoption — and how to move from using it as a glorified Google to building end-to-end businesses that run without human intervention How Peter is building a business he projects could generate over $100 million a year with zero human employees — and the jaw-dropping math behind it Why context matters more than prompting — and the 500-to-1 ratio that will immediately improve everything you get out of AI Peter's simple 15-minute-a-day prescription for any parent or entrepreneur who doesn't know where to start with AI The concept of "whole life decision making" — how Peter feeds AI his spiritual, financial, family and personal goals so every business decision serves his whole life, not just his bottom line What 30% unemployment could actually look like — and the three solutions being discussed at the highest levels of government and business Why Peter is focused entirely on soft skills when raising his kids — empathy, adaptability, resilience and communication — and why those are the skills AI still can't replicate How Peter's kids are already learning entrepreneurial thinking at home — with debit cards, chores, and pitching dad for what they want This episode will challenge the way you think about work, freedom, technology and what it means to set your kids up for a future that looks nothing like today. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session079 Support the show

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Inside a Classroom Economy Where Kids Pay a Mortgage | Robert Coutts

#078. In this episode, Justin sits down with educator Robert Coutts, who has built a real-life “classroom economy” where students earn income, pay expenses, run businesses, and even pay a mortgage on their desks. Instead of just teaching financial literacy, Robert creates an environment where kids experience money decisions every single day—learning lessons about saving, spending, investing, and responsibility in a hands-on way. From classroom jobs to business fairs, and even dealing with debt and consequences, this system is helping students build real-world money skills long before adulthood. We chat about how a classroom economy system actually works, the power of delayed gratification and early money habits, why ownership and accountability are important skills, and practical ways to teach money lessons at home. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session078 Support the show

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Gold, Silver and the Lessons Your Kids Will Remember | David Morgan

#077. In this episode, Justin sits down with David Morgan, author of The Silver Manifesto, publisher of The Morgan Report, and creator of the documentary Silver Sunrise, for a wide-ranging conversation on money, family, and legacy. David explains why we are living through the late stages of a debt-based, fiat monetary system—and why inflation is not an accident, but a built-in feature of the system. He breaks down the critical difference between currency and real money, and why families—not institutions—bear the greatest risk when currencies lose purchasing power. The conversation dives deep into why gold and silver have served as stores of value for thousands of years, how they function differently within a family’s asset base, and why silver plays a uniquely important role in the modern, energy- and technology-driven world. David also shares practical guidance on how families can think about saving with hard assets, portfolio balance, and safe storage—without panic or complexity. A major focus of the episode is financial education for kids. David and Justin discuss how parents can teach children to think independently about money, avoid debt-driven consumer habits, and understand concepts like inflation, purchasing power, and real assets through simple, tangible experiences—like holding silver or learning the history of money. The episode closes with reflections on legacy, freedom, and resilience. David shares personal lessons from decades in the markets, the inspiration behind Silver Sunrise, and why true wealth goes beyond money to include health, wisdom, and personal freedom. This is a conversation for parents who want to: Protect their family’s purchasing power Raise financially resilient kids Understand why gold and silver matter right now Learn how to think clearly about money in an uncertain system Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session077 Support the show

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Flint, Not Fire: Raising Kids with Connection Before Correction | Mike McCarthy

#076. What does it really mean to build generational wealth — and how do you pass it on without losing your kids in the process? In this episode, I sit down with Mike McCarthy — serial entrepreneur, co-founder of GoBundance, former leader in the growth of Keller Williams, and author of The Miracle Morning for Parents and Families. Mike has helped scale businesses doing billions in sales, but what sets him apart is how intentionally he applies leadership, discipline, and values inside his own home. At the heart of this conversation is a powerful idea: give kids the flint, not the fire. Instead of simply handing down money or opportunity, Mike explains why parents must focus on preparing the heir — teaching responsibility, stewardship, and self-mastery — long before wealth ever changes hands. We also explore one of the most important parenting principles you’ll hear: connection before correction. Especially with adolescents, Mike shares why maintaining trust, presence, and relationship is the foundation that makes guidance, discipline, and financial lessons actually stick. This episode is filled with practical frameworks parents can implement immediately, including: How to teach financial responsibility through skin in the game, not handouts Why you need to prioritize connection before correction Why preparing heirs matters more than preparing estates A weekly family meeting that becomes the operating system for your home A simple daily routine — CHARMS — to help kids build discipline, confidence, and self-mastery How to raise money-smart kids without entitlement, control, or burnout This is a conversation for parents, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want their success to strengthen their family — not come at its expense. If you’re focused on raising grounded, capable kids and building a legacy that goes far beyond money, this episode with Mike McCarthy is a must-listen. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session076 Support the show

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Raising Sovereign Kids: Money, Mindset & Self-Reliance | Jon Stenstrom

#075. In this powerful episode, Justin sits down with Jon Stenstrom—father of two, entrepreneur, creator of Cast & Spear, and author of My First Bitcoin Book. Together they explore how to raise kids who are independent thinkers, financially literate, and empowered to thrive in a world that’s rapidly changing. From entrepreneurship, negotiation, and health habits… to Bitcoin, sovereignty, and the future of money… this conversation is packed with practical insights that every parent needs to hear. You’ll learn about: How Jon’s upbringing shaped his entrepreneurial mindset The skills kids naturally possess—and how to strengthen them How to instill hard work and money literacy in young children Core money lessons young kids can learn Health as wealth: Building lifelong physical habits Jon’s Bitcoin awakening Why Bitcoin matters for families How My First Bitcoin Book helps parents AND kids build curiosity, financial independence, and self-sovereignty The three core values Jon wants to pass down to his children If you care about preparing your kids for the real world, this episode will challenge how you think about money, family, responsibility, and teaching children foundational life skills. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session075 Support the show

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How to Turn $100 into $1 Million: Raising Biz Kids | Jeannine Glista

#074. In this episode, Justin sits down with Jeannine Glista, the Emmy award-winning creator and executive producer of Biz Kid$, the hit TV series that’s inspired millions of kids to learn about money, entrepreneurship, and investing. She’s also the co-author of the best-selling children’s book How to Turn $100 into $1,000,000: Earn It, Save It, Invest It, and Give It. You’ll hear: Why it is so important to get kids interested in entrepreneurship at a young age, Hw entrepreneurship can act as the hook into the world of money for our kids How the Biz Kid$ series came to life The strategies she found worked in making financial literacy engaging to her audience What motivated her to write her best selling book What she’s learned about teaching money to kids in fun and practical ways and how you could learn from her experience with your own kids The importance of having the proper money mindset We dive into the difference between earning and saving, how to help kids build confidence as entrepreneurs, and why starting small — even with just $100 — can spark a lifelong journey toward wealth and independence. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session074 Support the show

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The PowerDad Blueprint: Balance, Freedom, and Impact | Mike Gillespie

#073. In this episode, Justin sits down with Mike Gillespie, real estate investor, entrepreneur, and founder of Epic Living Academy. Mike’s mission is to help dads break free from the grind, create more time for their kids, and live with purpose. We dive into Mike’s journey from delivering papers as a kid to building a thriving real estate portfolio, leaving a secure government job, and ultimately discovering that true success isn’t about more properties or promotions—it’s about balance, freedom, and impact. You’ll hear: How Mike transitioned from “golden handcuffs” in government work to building a life on his terms. Why chasing more money or more doors in real estate doesn’t always equal more freedom. The life balance framework Mike uses to help dads design the life they actually want. Practical ways to be a role model for your kids when it comes to money, health, and fulfillment. How to foster abundance and financial confidence in your kids by involving them in real-life money lessons. If you’ve ever wondered how to provide for your family and actually enjoy the time you have with them, this episode will inspire you to rethink success and design your own PowerDad Blueprint. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session073 Support the show

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What's the Problem? | Joe Bryan

#072. In this powerful episode, Justin sits down with Joe Bryan, the creator of the viral short film “What’s the Problem?”—a video that has reached millions by exposing the flaws in our financial system. Joe shares his personal awakening to the corruption baked into modern money and explains how today’s economic challenges all trace back to the broken foundation of fiat currency. We dive into the concept of currency debasement, why prices should actually be falling over time, and the uncomfortable truth that the purchasing power of all fiat currencies trends toward zero. Joe also unpacks why this matters for families, what the future of money might look like, and most importantly, how parents can prepare their kids to navigate—and even thrive in—a rapidly changing financial world. If you’ve ever wondered what’s really wrong with money, and what we can do about it, this episode will challenge your perspective and leave you thinking differently about the future. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session072 Support the show

Raising Entrepreneurs: Lessons from The World's Most Disciplined Man | Craig Ballantyne, Episode 71

#071. In this episode, Justin sits down with Craig Ballantyne - bestselling author, entrepreneur, and high-performance coach — to explore how discipline, integrity, and mentorship shape the next generation of business leaders. Unlike our typical money tactics and strategy episodes, this episode takes a deeper dive into Craig’s entrepreneurial journey and the lessons parents can apply to raise confident, resilient kids. From growing up on a farm in Stratford, Ontario, to building multiple 7-figure businesses, Craig shares how real-world experiences, strong standards, and saying “no” to the wrong yeses shaped his path. If you’re a parent who wants to model entrepreneurial thinking, strong character, and long-term success for your kids — this one is a must-listen. Topics Covered: Craig’s early work experience and how it sparked his entrepreneurial mindset Why young people should work for great mentors before starting businesses Why discipline is about prioritizing your biggest problem, not cold showers Why you need to get clear on your “Big Why” before saying yes to anything The importance of standards and personal operating systems Craig’s philosophy on parenting with consistency, structure, and purpose Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session071 Support the show

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Meet CoPi: The AI Money Mentor Built For Gen Z and Alpha | Nejeed Kassam

#070. In this episode, Justin sits down with Nejeed Kassam — entrepreneur, father, and co-founder of Snowball 72 — to dive deep into how we can equip the next generation with the financial skills they desperately need. Nejeed shares his entrepreneurial journey, from launching his first business at age 14 to building and exiting a successful fintech company, and now launching CoPi — a groundbreaking AI-powered financial assistant designed to help young people take control of their money. We cover: How Nejeed’s immigrant family story shaped his drive and entrepreneurial grit Why most kids (and many adults) still lack basic financial literacy What inspired him to launch Snowball 72 and pivot from a video game to an AI-based assistant How CoPi empowers youth to learn, plan, and take action with their finances — judgment-free Real-world advice on how parents can model money habits at home Simple strategies Nejeed and his wife use to teach their own kids about money Whether you're a parent, entrepreneur, or someone passionate about the future of financial education, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical inspiration. Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session070 Support the show

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How Selling His House Led to Financial Freedom Through Campgrounds with Kevin Thueson

#069. Kevin Thueson was a CPA with a comfortable career, a house, and the kind of life that looks stable from the outside. But he knew he wanted more: ownership, time freedom, and the ability to model something different for his kids. In this episode, Kevin shares the bold move that changed everything—selling his house to buy a campground. That first leap launched him into full-time entrepreneurship, a growing real estate portfolio, and a new way of raising financially empowered kids. This episode dives deep into mindset, legacy, and the power of taking calculated risks for long-term freedom. You’ll Learn: What drove Kevin to leave his 10-year CPA career How he bought his first RV park—and why he believes it's a hidden gem asset class The importance of teaching kids about ownership and money from a young age Why “burning the boats” forced growth and created generational momentum How to normalize money and entrepreneurship at home—even if you weren’t raised that way Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session069 Support the show

From Shifts to Shares: Ownership, Wealth, and Raising Financially Confident Kids with Emily May

#068. In this episode, I sit down with Emily May—former registered nurse, real estate investor, and now the owner of M&M Roofing—to talk about her bold leap into entrepreneurship through business acquisition. Emily shares how she went from long nursing shifts to owning and scaling a roofing company 10x in one year. You'll also hear how she’s intentionally involving her kids in real estate, business, and money conversations—giving them a front-row seat to financial literacy in action. Whether you're exploring entrepreneurship, investing, or raising kids with money smarts, Emily’s story is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. You’ll Learn: Why Emily left nursing after 17 years to acquire a business How she grew her company through seller financing and community presence Mindset shifts that helped her step into ownership with no prior roofing experience How she models money confidence and entrepreneurship for her kids The importance of involving your children in real-life money decisions Show notes and more at: https://moneydadpodcast.com/session068 Support the show

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