Two years ago, Stephen and Amanda Stockbridge sold their Huntsville home and hit the road for 2,000 miles to start mission work in Baja California, Mexico. In this inspiring episode of The 256 Investor Podcast, Stephen joins JD to discuss the importance of the biggest investment we can make. Stephen shares how selling his biggest asset—a home he once thought he'd never leave—became the key to early financial freedom and a new life of purpose.

Together, they explore what it means to redefine wealth, how homeownership can be both a financial and spiritual investment, and how major life transitions can open the door to deeper fulfillment. Stephen also opens up about his and his wife Amanda’s work combating domestic violence, providing medical outreach, and launching English language programs in underserved Baja communities.

Whether you're an investor thinking about your next move or someone seeking purpose beyond the paycheck, this story proves that smart financial decisions can lead to extraordinary impact.

Topics Covered with Timestamps:

00:01:15 | Meet Stephen Stockbridge – From Huntsville to BajaStephen shares his background, how he and his wife became missionaries in Baja California, and the nature of their work supporting local churches and communities.

00:03:00 | Challenges in Mexico & Domestic Violence AwarenessStephen discusses cultural challenges, including domestic violence in Mexico, and how their ministry is addressing these sensitive issues through education and outreach.

00:05:30 | The Turning Point – Selling Everything to ServeStephen and JD reflect on his life-changing decision to sell his house, retire early from landscaping, and fully commit to missionary work.

00:07:06 | Real Estate Insight – When Your Home Becomes an InvestmentJD connects Stephen’s story to Rich Dad Poor Dad principles—how a home can become a launching pad for new opportunities when viewed strategically.

00:09:45 | Timing the Market & Making the SaleStephen shares how perfect timing and the Huntsville housing boom doubled his home’s value, making his mission dream financially possible.

00:12:00 | Homeownership Lessons & Long-Term PayoffsThey reflect on the power of homeownership as a tool for stability and freedom—and how choosing to buy instead of rent made all the difference.

00:14:00 | Life in Baja – Language, Culture, and ServiceStephen talks about learning Spanish, starting English classes for locals, and creating programs that bridge educational and cultural gaps.

00:16:30 | Minimalism & Letting Go of Material ThingsHe describes the emotional process of downsizing—selling, donating, and keeping only what fit in a 16-foot trailer—and what it taught him about priorities.

00:18:53 | Redefining Wealth & HappinessStephen reflects on leaving behind the American “rat race” for a life defined by service, simplicity, and purpose in Mexico.

00:20:26 | Closing Thoughts & Call to ActionJD wraps up the conversation, sharing how listeners can support Stephen’s mission work and reminding investors that financial freedom isn’t just about money—it’s about meaning.