Faith Meets Finance at Packed Events
Life Surge, a series of Christian-themed financial seminars, has rapidly expanded since its 2021 debut. With over 250,000 attendees across 70 events, the one-day conferences feature Christian celebrity speakers such as Tim Tebow and Priscilla Shirer. The events promise spiritual inspiration and financial empowerment under the banner of “Kingdom impact.”
Yet attendees report being caught off guard by aggressive sales pitches sandwiched between worship sessions. Classes are marketed for $97, but many lead to upsells costing tens of thousands in mentorship programs.
Financial Promises, Real-World Consequences
Don Speer and Cassie Cox invested over $60,000 in Life Surge programs. The financial strain led to marital breakdown and deep regret. “They manipulate and lie to you,” Cox said. Others emptied retirement accounts or went into debt. Some cite emotional pressure using religious language to secure sales.
While Life Surge posts disclaimers warning of potential losses, many say those come too late to matter.
Supporters Credit Life Surge With Real Change
Not all stories are negative. Danielle Umpierre, a single mother, said her investment in Life Surge’s trading program more than doubled in months. She credits the experience with lifting her family out of debt and enabling her to support others.
Aprille Balangue, another supporter, quit her engineering job after finding success in trading and now volunteers extensively. Life Surge leaders point to such stories as proof of “Kingdom impact.”
Other supporters highlight the sense of purpose and community that the events foster. They believe the classes provided tools that aligned with their faith and changed their lives financially and spiritually.
Leadership’s Troubled Past Raises Questions
Founder Joe Johnson and President Shawn Marcell have past ties to companies accused of fraud and ethics violations. Welfont Group, once led by Johnson, was ordered to pay $7 million in damages for fraudulent property deals. Johnson says these legal issues are unrelated to Life Surge’s mission.
A former employee also sued Life Surge in 2025, alleging religious discrimination and deceptive marketing practices targeting Christians. Johnson disputes the claims, asserting that Life Surge operates transparently and delivers on its promises.
Debate Over Mixing Ministry With Money
Supporters view Life Surge as a bold attempt to merge faith with financial empowerment. Critics see spiritual manipulation used to market overpriced programs. Life Surge insists it’s offering an educational experience aligned with Christian values, but many remain skeptical about the methods and messaging used to reach the faithful.
Source:
Life Surge: Christian Wealth-Building or High-Pressure Sales with a Christian Veneer?
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