Stephen completed undergraduate studies at CSU, Sacramento in 1990 with an emphasis in Accountancy. He began work as a staff accountant for a mid-size accountancy firm in Stockton, California.

For five years, Stephen labored at the routine work of company audits and tax work, plus a specialized niche called peer review services. He became an auditor of the auditors.

In July 1995, Stephen followed his heart away from traditional CPA services to start with a growing organization. His new position was the Chief Financial Officer at a California Religious Nonprofit named Bethel Assemblies of God of Redding.

One week before Stephen’s arrival, Bethel’s board was faced with the sudden need to replace their senior leaders, Ray and Becky Larson. Six months and many interviews later, they hired Bill and Beni Johnson.

The following two years were a financial challenge as the congregation shifted to a new leadership vision. Stephen found himself in the exciting nexus where spontaneous faith meets practical financial demands.

As Bethel’s influence grew, so too did the complexity of this once simple church structure. Gross revenues exploded from $1 million in 1995 to over $40 million by 2016.

In 2016, Stephen felt God’s call to retire from Bethel and start his own non-profit, Prosperous Soul Ministries. Drawing from his own rich experience, training, and inspiration, Stephen educates, heals, and teaches families to adopt a fresh and biblical perspective around money, so they can build a financial legacy that lasts for generations.