In this episode, Nicole opens up about the hardest year of her life, balancing motherhood, money, and a messy business breakup, and how she found the strength to start over and build something entirely her own.0:48 Nicole’s start at Merrill Lynch 2:11 Defining what “ultra-high-net-worth” really means.3:26 Watching $100M+ exits up close early in her career.5:06 Leaving Merrill to go independent and start a firm.6:41 Early struggles learning how to build an RIA.8:01 Finding a niche with pro athletes and exonerees.9:46 First red flags about her business partner.11:41 Partner diverts company resources to other ventures.13:56 Realizing something feels off — considering leaving.15:36 Her baby’s stroke changes everything overnight.17:29 Balancing special-needs motherhood and running the firm.19:11 Discovering the profit over-distributions.20:51 Realizing her capital account is negative $20K.22:31 Quietly preparing her exit and seeking legal advice.23:56 The conversation — telling her partner she’s leaving.25:13 Negotiating the $20K down to $5K.26:06 Launching her own firm, PearlVest Capital.27:01 The shocking math: owning 100% pays more.27:51 Acquiring other firms and empowering women advisors.28:41 Final lessons and emotional close.