Imagine winning a whopping $22 million in a multi-state lottery drawing.

Most people would be over the moon and would want to share the news with everyone they know.

However, for John, a resident of Louisville, Kentucky (name and place changed for his personal security), that wasn't the case on the Dave Ramsey Show.

In a candid conversation with financial expert and podcaster Dave Ramsey, John shares in this video why he's chosen to keep his lottery win a closely guarded secret and the lessons he hopes to instill in his teenage children.

The Decision to Keep Quiet

John's decision to keep his lottery win under wraps was not taken lightly. He confided in only his wife and one sibling, keeping the news from everyone else.

His main concern was the well-being of his family and himself.

John had done his research and found that many lottery winners faced financial ruin or unwanted attention when their windfalls became public knowledge. He was determined to avoid these pitfalls.

Dave Ramsey: "John, it's not every day someone wins $22 million in the lottery. Why have you kept it such a secret?"

John: "Well, Dave, when I found out about the win, I did some research. People often say that winners end up losing their money or facing financial difficulties.”

“I read that one reason is telling too many people and having them come asking for handouts. So, we decided to keep it quiet."

Protecting His Children's Future

One of John's main reasons for keeping the secret even from his teenage children was to shield them from the burden of expectations.

He didn't want his kids to grow up relying on their potential inheritance.

John believed that by not revealing the extent of his wealth, he could encourage his children to pursue their own passions and ambitions.

Dave Ramsey: "Your decision to keep your kids in the dark about your wealth, that's unique. Why?"

John: "Dave, we didn't want our kids to wait for us to pass away just to inherit our wealth. We want them to find their own paths in life."

Creating a Cover Story

To explain his financial generosity without revealing the true source of his wealth, John and his wife used a clever cover story.

They used a genuine inheritance from a great uncle as the reason behind their ability to assist friends and family financially.

This allowed them to help others without exposing their lottery win.

Dave Ramsey: "You mentioned helping people without revealing your lottery win. How do you do that?"

John: "We tell them it's from my wife's great uncle. It's a way to help others without them knowing the truth."

Dave Ramsey's Perspective

Dave Ramsey, the financial expert, praised John's decision to keep his secret.

He emphasized the importance of gradually introducing the concept of wealth to his teenage children, ensuring they understand that money doesn't define their identity.

Ramsey also suggested that John increase his enjoyment of the money over time, creating lasting memories with his family and increasing his generosity systematically.

Dave Ramsey: "John, you're doing a great job of managing this, but remember, you can also enjoy it. Create some memorable experiences with your family."

John: "You're right, Dave. I need to find a balance between safeguarding our future and enjoying the present."

Navigating Generosity and Responsibility

John's story raises important questions about the responsibility that comes with wealth.

While he's been cautious about sharing his windfall, he also recognizes the importance of using his newfound resources for good.

In his show, Dave Ramsey encouraged everyone to take steps towards generosity, starting with small acts of kindness that can have a significant impact on others.

Dave Ramsey: "John, you have a remarkable opportunity to teach your children about the power of generosity. Consider taking them out to dinner and showing them how a small act of kindness can brighten someone's day."

John: "That's a great idea, Dave. It's important for us to instill these values in our children."

John's decision to keep his $22 million lottery win a secret might seem unusual to many of us, but he wanted to protect his family and instill important life lessons in his children.

By managing his wealth wisely, teaching his kids about financial responsibility, and gradually introducing them to the concept of wealth, John hopes to ensure that his windfall has a positive and lasting impact on their lives.