Your first $100,000 in investing feels impossible—until you see the math. Today, Nicole breaks down why the first $100K is the hardest money you’ll ever make, what changes mathematically once you cross it, and the path to get there… without a hot stock tip, crypto bro, or dumb luck.

Nicole walks through a real, doable five-year plan based on the average U.S. salary —including exactly how much to invest each month, where to put your money, and how the beautiful power of compound interest quietly accelerates behind the scenes. 

Try Nicole’s Compound Interest Calculator

Check out Nicole’s financial literacy course The Money School 

Find a Financial Advisor or Financial Coach from Nicole’s company Private Wealth Collective

Watch video clips from the pod on Money Rehab’s Instagram and Nicole Lapin’s Instagram

Here’s what Nicole covers today:

00:00 Are You Ready for Some Money Rehab?

00:18 Why Your First $100K Is the Hardest

02:53 Year-by-Year Investment Plan

03:05 Year 1: Building the Habit

04:00 Year 2: Gaining Momentum

04:33 Year 3: Growth Year

04:59 Year 4: Push Harder

05:37 Year 5: Reaching the Goal

06:00 Reality Check: Life Throws Curveballs

06:33 Passive Income

07:20 Your Next Steps and Resources

All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Always do your own research and consult a licensed financial advisor before making any financial decisions or investments.