The Unfair Advantage EP 047 | Chris Goulard on Navigating Personal Finances as a Pastor
In this episode of The Unfair Advantage, David Hibiske sits down with Chris Goulard to tackle a topic many pastors and church planters quietly struggle with: personal finances. Drawing from decades of experience in both Wall Street and church ministry, Chris shares why financial stewardship is not just a practical necessity but a pastoral responsibility. Together, they explore the unique financial realities pastors face, from housing allowance and Social Security decisions to retirement planning and budgeting, while emphasizing the importance of theological clarity, discipline, and long-term vision. This conversation offers pastors practical wisdom to care for their families well today while preparing responsibly for the future.
Welcome to Episode 047 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with David Hibiske.
EPISODE LINKS
christianstewardshipnetwork.com
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stewardship-leader/id1479428446
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WHO IS CHRIS GOULARD?
Chris Goulard, CFP®, MML, serves as Vice President of Stewardship Initiatives at Financial Planning Ministry (FPM), where he helps churches develop estate planning ministries as a cornerstone of their stewardship initiatives. With over 25 years dedicated to promoting biblical financial stewardship, Chris also chairs the Christian Stewardship Network and frequently teaches on stewardship and generosity. After a successful financial services career as a Vice President at Fidelity Investments, MFS, and Prudential Financial, he joined Saddleback Church in 2004 as Pastor of Stewardship. Over 20 years on staff, he led initiatives such as Financial Freedom Workshops, Estate Planning, and a $50 million giving campaign, fostering a culture of generosity. Chris holds a BA in Economics from Dartmouth, a CFP® designation, and a seminary master’s degree. He and his wife, Jenifer, have been married for 35 years and have two adult sons and two amazing daughters-in-law.
SPONSORS
Thanks to our sponsor: Generis.
A generous church is a healthy, growing church. So, if you're ready to advance your mission, visit
Generis.com/getstarted today!
Thanks to our sponsor: MOHI.
Partnering with MOHI helps churches establish a culture of outward-focused discipleship early on. By connecting your congregation to Kingdom work in Africa, you foster generosity, compassion, and a vision for serving beyond your local community—values that help shape your church’s identity for years to come.