Christ Centered Stewardship

Nino Villa & Maria Casillas

Christ Centered Stewardship by New Money Habits Welcome to Christ Centered Stewardship by New Money Habits, where biblical truth, practical financial skills, and real conversations come together to help you build a life of freedom, peace, and purpose. Hosted by Nino Villa and Maria Casillas, this show goes far beyond traditional personal finance. We believe that money isn’t just about numbers — it’s about identity, behavior, mindset, and what (or who) we trust. Most people never learn how to manage money in a way that aligns with their faith, their values, or the life God created them to live. We’re here to change that. Meet Your Hosts Nino Villa, an educator turned financial coach, brings clarity, structure, and biblically grounded wisdom. He specializes in helping people build new money habits that are simple, sustainable, and rooted in Scripture. His calm, practical coaching and his belief that God’s Word offers real answers make him a trusted guide for anyone seeking lasting financial transformation. Maria Casillas brings a creative, psychology-driven approach to money. After experiencing—and overcoming—more than $100k of debt fueled by fear, stress, and misaligned priorities, she now helps people understand why they do what they do with money and how to break the habits that keep them stuck. Her coaching style is fun, insightful, and rooted in behavior change and values alignment. Together, Nino and Maria create a dynamic, relatable, and faith-filled environment where listeners can grow, learn, and feel understood — no shame, no judgment, no overwhelm. What You’ll Find Here ✔ Biblical financial principles explained through real-life stories ✔ Practical tools and step-by-step guidance for building healthy money habits ✔ Honest conversations about the emotions, fears, and beliefs that shape our financial decisions ✔ Encouragement and hope for anyone feeling stuck, stressed, or unsure ✔ Weekly episodes and short-form content designed for teens, college students, young adults, and families ✔ A safe, Christ-centered space to explore money through the lens of stewardship Whether you’re navigating money for the first time or rebuilding after years of struggle… Whether you want to strengthen your marriage, deepen your faith, or break generational patterns… Whether you’re curious, confused, or simply ready for something different… You’re in the right place. This is more than a podcast. More than a YouTube channel. It’s a movement calling Christians back to God’s design for stewardship — a way of living that brings peace, freedom, and purpose to every area of life. Subscribe, listen, and grow with us as we learn to manage money God’s way. Because true financial freedom doesn’t start with a calculator. It starts with Christ at the center.

Episodes

  1. Knowledge Is Power: Inflation, Layoffs, and Making Informed Decisions | Ep. 011

    1D AGO

    Knowledge Is Power: Inflation, Layoffs, and Making Informed Decisions | Ep. 011

    In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore the phrase: knowledge is power. With inflation rising 26% since 2020, many households feel financial pressure — tighter budgets, side hustles, and difficult conversations about work. But instead of reacting emotionally, this episode encourages listeners to slow down, gather information, and make informed decisions rooted in wisdom. Topics include: What 26% inflation actually means for rent, groceries, and income Why many families feel like they “can’t keep up” Emotional versus objective financial decisions How to evaluate whether a second job truly makes sense Negotiating expenses and calling service providers Preparing emotionally and spiritually for a potential layoff Trusting God’s provision in uncertain seasons Through personal stories of layoffs and financial stress, Nino and Maria highlight the importance of faith, humility, and wisdom in moments of uncertainty. Rather than reacting in fear, this episode invites listeners to pause, gather information, and seek God’s guidance. Weekly Challenge Write down James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” Every time you face a decision this week — financial or otherwise — pause and ask God for wisdom before responding emotionally. Hosted by: Nino Villa and Maria Casillas Consider whether the communities you’re part of are helping you grow — and whether there may be a healthier space God is inviting you into. If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    30 min
  2. Contentment Through Gratitude: Breaking the Cycle of Unplanned Spending  | Ep. 010

    FEB 16

    Contentment Through Gratitude: Breaking the Cycle of Unplanned Spending | Ep. 010

    In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore the relationship between contentment, gratitude, and unplanned spending. Responding to a listener question about how to focus on contentment and avoid unnecessary spending, the conversation reframes the issue beneath financial behavior. Rather than treating overspending as a budgeting failure, Nino and Maria examine how a lack of contentment often leads to consumption, distraction, and self-sabotage. This episode reflects on: What contentment really is — and what it is not How gratitude reshapes our desires and decisions Why unplanned spending is often rooted in restlessness, not need The difference between consumption and stewardship How simple practices of gratitude can interrupt unhealthy financial patterns Rather than offering rules or quick fixes, this conversation invites listeners to consider how gratitude forms contentment, and how contentment supports faithful stewardship across daily life. Weekly Challenge Each day this week, pause and ask: What am I grateful for right now? What have I not thanked God for recently? Practice naming gratitude before making spending decisions, and notice how awareness begins to shape contentment. Hosted by: Nino Villa and Maria Casillas Consider whether the communities you’re part of are helping you grow — and whether there may be a healthier space God is inviting you into. If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    27 min
  3. What Is God’s Will for My Life? Obedience, Prayer, and Trusting His Plan | Ep. 009

    FEB 9

    What Is God’s Will for My Life? Obedience, Prayer, and Trusting His Plan | Ep. 009

    Many believers ask the same question at some point in their journey:“What is God’s will for my life?” In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Maria Casillas and Nino Villa explore the often-confusing relationship between God’s will, His purpose, and our individual calling. Through Scripture, personal testimony, and practical examples, they discuss why God’s will is often more about who we are becoming than the specific outcomes we are trying to control. This conversation addresses: The difference between God’s will, purpose, and calling God’s perfect will versus His permissive will Why obedience can feel intimidating but leads to growth How prayer shapes our understanding and trust The role of consequences, free will, and God’s faithfulness The episode also includes an “Ask the Coaches” segment reflecting on advice they would give their younger selves, emphasizing trust, patience, and cooperation with God’s provision over time. Rather than offering quick answers, this episode invites listeners into a deeper posture of prayer, obedience, and ongoing communication with God. Weekly Challenge The next time worry surfaces, pause and pray. Following Philippians 4:6–7: Bring your concern to God in prayer Tell Him what you need Thank Him for what He has already done Practice replacing worry with prayer and gratitude, trusting God to guard your heart and mind. Hosted by: Nino Villa and Maria Casillas Consider whether the communities you’re part of are helping you grow — and whether there may be a healthier space God is inviting you into. If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    42 min
  4. Finding Peace Through Christ in Life’s Storms | Ep. 008

    FEB 2

    Finding Peace Through Christ in Life’s Storms | Ep. 008

    Life comes with storms — unexpected loss, hardship, uncertainty, and seasons that feel overwhelming. Following Christ does not remove those storms, but it does change how we walk through them. In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore what it means to experience peace through Christ, even when circumstances are painful and unresolved. Drawing from Scripture and personal experience, they address the misconception that faith guarantees an easy life and instead point to a peace that exists within the storm, not apart from it. This conversation includes: Why faith does not eliminate suffering or hardship The difference between knowledge, understanding, and wisdom in the faith journey How surrendering to God’s will opens the door to peace Why wrestling with God is a normal and necessary part of faith Setting loving boundaries through difficult family conversations The episode also offers tangible ways to reflect on Scripture and seek God’s peace in seasons of loss, grief, or uncertainty. Weekly Challenge Each day this week, set aside five minutes to reflect on the truth that there is a peace that doesn’t make sense. Read and meditate on: Philippians 4:6–7 Isaiah 26:3 Ask God to reveal His peace to you, even if your circumstances remain unchanged. Hosted by: Nino Villa and Maria Casillas Consider whether the communities you’re part of are helping you grow — and whether there may be a healthier space God is inviting you into. If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    39 min
  5. Community That Supports Growth: Discernment, Boundaries, and Healthy Support | Ep. 007

    JAN 26

    Community That Supports Growth: Discernment, Boundaries, and Healthy Support | Ep. 007

    Community matters — but not every community helps us grow. In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore why the right kind of community is essential for growth, and why some environments can quietly hold us back. Using the familiar “crabs in a bucket” analogy, they discuss how negativity, poor boundaries, and unhealthy dynamics — especially in large online spaces — can undermine progress rather than support it. This conversation explores: Why not all communities are healthy or helpful How to discern when a group is supportive versus toxic The limits of online communities and the value of real-time connection Why truth requires wisdom and nuance in application How healthy boundaries can be an expression of love The episode also addresses a listener question about managing stress from triggering family relationships, offering insight into responsibility, communication, and personal growth without shame. Rather than encouraging isolation, this episode invites listeners to seek intentional, life-giving community — where growth is supported, truth is handled with care, and people are committed to walking together. Weekly Challenge Take a few moments this week to reflect on your community. Ask yourself: Who is pouring into me? Who am I pouring into? Who am I learning alongside? Consider whether the communities you’re part of are helping you grow — and whether there may be a healthier space God is inviting you into. Hosted by: Nino Villa and Maria Casillas If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    34 min
  6. Count the Cost: Biblical Planning, Realistic Habits, and Faithful Stewardship | Ep. 006

    JAN 19

    Count the Cost: Biblical Planning, Realistic Habits, and Faithful Stewardship | Ep. 006

    As a new year begins, many of us feel the pressure to change everything at once. But Scripture invites us to a slower, wiser path. In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas reflect on Jesus’ words in Luke 14:28, where He calls us to count the cost before we begin. Together, they explore what biblical planning looks like when it’s rooted in realism, obedience, and faithful stewardship rather than pressure or perfection. This conversation touches on: Why overplanning often leads to discouragement The difference between worldly resolutions and God-led change Building habits slowly instead of trying to overhaul everything at once Stewarding time, health, family, and finances with wisdom Aligning our will with God’s instead of cultural expectations Rather than asking “What should I change?”, this episode invites a deeper question:“Lord, what are You inviting me to steward more faithfully right now?” Weekly Challenge This week, identify one simple rhythm you can establish in your life — in prayer, rest, or work. Rather than aiming for a drastic change, choose something small and realistic that you can sustain. Take time to consider the cost, ask the Lord for guidance, and begin with faithfulness rather than intensity. Scripture Reflection“For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” — Luke 14:28 If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    30 min
  7. Generosity as Worship: Time, Talent, and Treasure | Ep. 005

    JAN 12

    Generosity as Worship: Time, Talent, and Treasure | Ep. 005

    In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore generosity as an act of worship—not limited to money, but expressed through our time, talents, and resources. The conversation begins with an honest look at how easily generosity becomes transactional or automatic, rather than intentional and prayerful. Nino and Maria reflect on what it means to give—and receive—generously, recognizing that God uses both to bless His people. They share personal stories that highlight generosity in everyday life, from learning to graciously receive a blessing, to modeling generosity for children, to rethinking how we steward time in seasons of busyness. The discussion expands to include generosity with talents—discovering gifts we may not yet recognize—and how God often intertwines time, talent, and treasure in ways that shape our character and relationships. This episode challenges listeners to slow down, reflect, and choose intentional generosity rooted in gratitude and trust, rather than obligation or pressure. Weekly Challenge:Choose one intentional act of generosity this week—through your time, talent, or treasure—and step into it prayerfully and faithfully. If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    36 min
  8. Now That’s Some Stinkin’ Thinkin’ | Ep. 004

    JAN 9

    Now That’s Some Stinkin’ Thinkin’ | Ep. 004

    In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore how our thoughts shape our behavior, relationships, and spiritual growth — and why transforming our thinking is essential for lasting change. Anchored in Romans 12:2, the conversation unpacks what the hosts often call “stinkin’ thinkin’” — deeply rooted beliefs formed early in life that quietly influence our decisions, emotions, and habits, especially around money, relationships, and self-worth. Maria shares personal stories about evolving family traditions and gift-giving, illustrating how unexamined beliefs can lead to stress, obligation, and disconnection. Together, Nino and Maria discuss how intentional thinking leads to healthier outcomes and how God’s Word plays a central role in renewing our minds. The episode also includes an Ask the Coaches segment, where listener questions about low-spend living, impulsive spending, and financial anxiety become real-world examples of how beliefs drive behavior. The episode concludes with a practical weekly challenge designed to help listeners identify recurring thoughts and begin aligning them with Scripture and truth. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, examine what you believe, and allow God’s truth to reshape how you live. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why beliefs formed early in life are so powerful How “stinkin’ thinkin’” influences spending and behavior The connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions How Scripture renews the mind and reshapes identity Practical steps to reprogram unhealthy thinking patterns A weekly challenge to align your thoughts with biblical truth If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in faithful living.

    36 min
  9. Are Your Decisions Driven by Faith or Circumstances? | Ep. 003

    JAN 7

    Are Your Decisions Driven by Faith or Circumstances? | Ep. 003

    In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore how fear and faith influence the decisions we make — especially during seasons of financial pressure and uncertainty. Drawing from Scripture and personal testimony, the conversation invites listeners to examine whether their choices are being shaped by circumstances or grounded in trust in God’s provision. Nino shares several pivotal moments from his own career journey, illustrating how stepping forward in faith — even when outcomes were unclear — led to unexpected provision and growth. Maria adds insight on the balance between faith and action, emphasizing that trusting God does not mean passivity, but rather cooperating with His will through wise, intentional decisions. Together, they unpack how control, fear, and self-created circumstances can distort our perspective, while faith opens the door to peace and clarity. The episode also features an Ask the Coaches segment, where a listener wrestling with debt and the possibility of bankruptcy becomes a real-world example of how fear can cloud judgment — and how truth, perspective, and wise counsel can restore confidence. The episode concludes with a simple but powerful weekly challenge: before making decisions, pause and ask what would honor God. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The difference between faith-driven and fear-driven decisions Why circumstances should not determine faithfulness How God provides in unexpected and unconventional ways The role of wise counsel in stewardship decisions How gratitude and perspective reduce fear A weekly challenge to align decisions with God’s will If you want to continue these conversations in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in living faithfully.

    40 min
  10. Do You Own It? Or Is It God’s to Entrust? | Stewardship Over Ownership | Ep. 002

    JAN 5

    Do You Own It? Or Is It God’s to Entrust? | Stewardship Over Ownership | Ep. 002

    In this episode of the Christ Centered Stewardship podcast, Nino Villa and Maria Casillas explore one of the most foundational questions of faith and daily living: Do you own what you have — or has God entrusted it to you? This conversation reframes stewardship beyond finances and into every area of life God has placed in our care. Through Scripture, reflection, and practical examples, Nino and Maria unpack how an ownership mindset often creates pressure, fear, and anxiety — and how embracing stewardship brings freedom, peace, and clarity. Rather than asking, “What’s mine?” this episode invites a better question:“How is God inviting me to faithfully manage what He has entrusted to me?” In this episode, we explore: Ownership vs. StewardshipWhy this distinction matters — especially at the beginning of a new year. How Culture Shapes an Ownership MindsetThe subtle ways our environment trains us to claim control rather than trust. What Scripture Teaches About BelongingA biblical foundation for stewardship rooted in God’s sovereignty. Stewardship Beyond MoneyHow our time, bodies, work, relationships, and decisions are also entrusted by God. Why Ownership Creates PressureHow saying “this is mine” often leads to stress, fear, and striving. The Freedom of StewardshipWhat changes when responsibility is held with God instead of apart from Him. Practical Ways to Practice Stewardship DailySimple shifts you can begin making right now. Weekly Stewardship ChallengeA reflective invitation to release ownership and walk in trust. This episode continues the foundation laid in the premiere and prepares the way for deeper exploration of Christ-centered stewardship in the weeks ahead. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by responsibility, burdened by control, or unsure how faith connects to everyday decisions, this conversation offers a gentler, more faithful way forward. Walk the Journey in Community We invite you to continue the conversation and reflect with others: • Join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group• Follow the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Page for updates and new episodes

    31 min
  11. Christ Centered Stewardship: Living as Stewards, Not Owners | Ep. 001

    JAN 1

    Christ Centered Stewardship: Living as Stewards, Not Owners | Ep. 001

    In this premiere episode of Christ-Centered Stewardship, hosts Nino Villa and Maria Casillas introduce the heart and vision behind the show. This conversation begins with their personal journeys and the calling that led them to create a space where faith, stewardship, and everyday life meet. Together, they explore what stewardship truly means from a biblical perspective — not just in relation to money, but in every area God has entrusted to us. Throughout the episode, Nino and Maria share the foundational values that will guide every conversation in the weeks ahead. These include living as stewards rather than owners, choosing faith over circumstances, renewing our thinking through Scripture, and understanding the role of generosity, planning, community, obedience, and gratitude in a Christ-centered life. This episode sets the tone for a journey focused on clarity, peace, and purpose — rooted in biblical truth and lived out through practical, everyday faith. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, seeking deeper alignment, or simply longing to live with Christ at the center of your life, you are invited to walk this path with us. What We Cover in This Episode What Christ-centered stewardship means Why stewardship extends beyond finances Stewardship over ownership Faith above circumstances Transformation through renewed thinking Generosity as worship The importance of planning Community as a catalyst for growth Peace through Christ Obedience to God’s will Contentment through gratitude If you’d like to walk this journey in community, we invite you to join the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Group, where we reflect on Scripture, discuss each episode, and encourage one another in living faithfully. → Join the Facebook Group You can also follow the Christ Centered Stewardship Facebook Page for updates and new episode releases. → Follow the Facebook Page

    21 min

About

Christ Centered Stewardship by New Money Habits Welcome to Christ Centered Stewardship by New Money Habits, where biblical truth, practical financial skills, and real conversations come together to help you build a life of freedom, peace, and purpose. Hosted by Nino Villa and Maria Casillas, this show goes far beyond traditional personal finance. We believe that money isn’t just about numbers — it’s about identity, behavior, mindset, and what (or who) we trust. Most people never learn how to manage money in a way that aligns with their faith, their values, or the life God created them to live. We’re here to change that. Meet Your Hosts Nino Villa, an educator turned financial coach, brings clarity, structure, and biblically grounded wisdom. He specializes in helping people build new money habits that are simple, sustainable, and rooted in Scripture. His calm, practical coaching and his belief that God’s Word offers real answers make him a trusted guide for anyone seeking lasting financial transformation. Maria Casillas brings a creative, psychology-driven approach to money. After experiencing—and overcoming—more than $100k of debt fueled by fear, stress, and misaligned priorities, she now helps people understand why they do what they do with money and how to break the habits that keep them stuck. Her coaching style is fun, insightful, and rooted in behavior change and values alignment. Together, Nino and Maria create a dynamic, relatable, and faith-filled environment where listeners can grow, learn, and feel understood — no shame, no judgment, no overwhelm. What You’ll Find Here ✔ Biblical financial principles explained through real-life stories ✔ Practical tools and step-by-step guidance for building healthy money habits ✔ Honest conversations about the emotions, fears, and beliefs that shape our financial decisions ✔ Encouragement and hope for anyone feeling stuck, stressed, or unsure ✔ Weekly episodes and short-form content designed for teens, college students, young adults, and families ✔ A safe, Christ-centered space to explore money through the lens of stewardship Whether you’re navigating money for the first time or rebuilding after years of struggle… Whether you want to strengthen your marriage, deepen your faith, or break generational patterns… Whether you’re curious, confused, or simply ready for something different… You’re in the right place. This is more than a podcast. More than a YouTube channel. It’s a movement calling Christians back to God’s design for stewardship — a way of living that brings peace, freedom, and purpose to every area of life. Subscribe, listen, and grow with us as we learn to manage money God’s way. Because true financial freedom doesn’t start with a calculator. It starts with Christ at the center.