Fantasy Sports and Real Convictions
Dr. Jared Pincin rose from modest beginnings to become a Cedarville economics professor. Shaped by faith and personal experience, he now mentors students on wise living and warns against the spiritual risks of sports betting.
Some of the most lasting lessons in life don’t come from classrooms or textbooks but from watching the people closest to you do hard things without complaint. For Dr. Jared Pincin, those lessons were learned early by watching his college-educated father take whatever work was necessary to provide for his family, even when that meant working as a janitor at McDonald’s during a tough recession.
Pincin, associate professor of economics at Cedarville University since 2023, isn’t just an expert in market theory. He’s a man shaped by humble beginnings, hard-earned wisdom, and a heart for guiding young people well.
Born and raised in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, Jared grew up watching his parents navigate life’s ups and downs with grit and grace. His dad took that janitorial job during an economic downturn. He never showed bitterness or complained; he simply did what was needed to care for his family. That quiet determination left a lasting mark. Jared’s own first job, stocking shelves for Nabisco, became a lesson in humility and trusting God’s timing.
What Sparked Jared Pincin’s Passion for Economics
His journey into economics began in middle school, sparked by a visiting stockbroker on career day. That interest grew through high school internships and eventually led him to earn a PhD. Though he didn’t initially plan on teaching, the doors to academia opened, and he found joy in the classroom, especially in connecting with students and helping them think deeply about real-world choices.
The Hidden Dangers of Fantasy Sports and Sports Betting
On a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Jared shared more than just economic insight. He spoke candidly about his past involvement in fantasy sports and how it gradually led him to question the role of sports betting in his life. What started as a harmless March Madness bracket in high school ended with a suspension and a turning point. Over time, he began to see gambling not just as a financial risk but as a spiritual one.
Guiding Students with Conviction and Faith-Based Values
Today, alongside Cedarville colleague Colonel (Ret.) Greg Thompson, he speaks to students about the hidden dangers of sports betting, particularly how easy access and secrecy can foster habits with long-term consequences. It’s not about legalism, he says, but stewardship and wisdom.
Jared’s story is one of thoughtful faith, honest work, and a calling to prepare the next generation not just for the workforce but for life.
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio’s largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.