Chris Brennan
Financial Literacy Advocate
Personal Notes
When I look back on my own financial education, I often wish someone had pulled me aside and taught me how money really works—how it shapes opportunity, how it reflects values, and how it can be stewarded with purpose.
I had the most involved, well-intentioned, caring parents, yet when it came to finances, I was kept in the dark. Consequently, I made horrendous financial decisions even before I’d left for college, and unwittingly internalized bad practices that took decades to fix. That avoidable gap in learning inspired me to devote my career to helping others build the confidence and skills to navigate financial choices wisely.
As a Certified Financial Education Instructor, my mission is to make money conversations accessible, practical, relatable, and enjoyable. I bring to this work 13 years as a classroom teacher and curriculum designer, along with my current role as Wealth Education Specialist at ArchBridge Family Office. Every day, I see how knowledge and empowerment change the trajectory of families, especially across generations.
Whether you are a young adult just starting out, a parent guiding children, or part of a family planning for the future, I believe financial education is one of the most important gifts you can give to the rising generation. And as part of my role at ArchBridge, I’m here to help you approach that journey with clarity and confidence.
Bio
Chris Brennan is an NFEC Certified Financial Education Instructor℠ (CFEI®) and Wealth Education Specialist at ArchBridge Family Office (formerly St. Louis Trust & Family Office). In this role, he develops and delivers innovative financial literacy curricula designed to prepare the next generation of high-net-worth families for the responsibilities of wealth by integrating cognitive development research with real-world financial scenarios. Drawing on his background in teaching, curriculum design, and cross-cultural education, Chris integrates developmental psychology with practical financial skills to create programs that resonate across ages 10 to 25.
Before transitioning into the wealth education space, Chris spent 13 years as a lead teacher and curriculum developer at Mary Institute St. Louis Country Day School (MICDS), where he held a Chair of Distinguished Teaching and received multiple Merit Awards. He has also presented internationally and directed global leadership programs in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Chris holds a B.S. in International Business and Spanish from Washington University in St. Louis, an M.A. in Education & Innovation from Webster University, and certification in Admissions & Enrollment Programs (CAEP). He is a published author, experienced speaker, and coach who brings energy, creativity, and storytelling to financial education. His work reflects a simple but powerful belief: knowledge builds confidence, and confidence shapes a meaningful financial future.
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