Imagine turning a modest $1,000 investment at 18 into a $1 million net worth by 28. Sounds like a fairy tale, right? But here’s where it gets real: Natasha Etschmann, better known as TashInvests, did exactly that—not through risky gambles or overnight schemes, but by following a simple, often overlooked strategy she calls “Get Rich Slow.” And this is the part most people miss: it’s not about flashy moves, but consistent, intentional choices. Let’s dive into her story and the rules she swears by, because if a former disability support worker pulling overnight shifts can do it, maybe there’s something here for all of us.
At 18, Natasha was far from a finance guru. She was working grueling hours, saving every dollar she could, and following one piece of advice her dad gave her: buy an S&P 500 ETF and hold it. Fast forward a decade, and she’s not just a social media sensation; she’s a living example of how patience and discipline can transform your financial future. With a share portfolio worth $310,000, ownership of both an apartment and a house, and a net worth exceeding $1 million, Natasha’s journey is a testament to the power of slow, steady growth.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Natasha’s philosophy flies in the face of the ‘get rich quick’ mindset that dominates much of today’s financial advice. Her approach? Buy, hold, and diversify. “I’m not trying to beat the market,” she admits. “I just want something that works for my lifestyle. I don’t want to sit there watching charts all day.” This simplicity is what makes her story so compelling—and so accessible. Starting with just $1,000 at 18, she consistently added to her investments, letting time and compound interest do the heavy lifting. Her “Get Rich Slow” rule isn’t about flashy returns; it’s about small, steady contributions that build wealth over time.
And this is the part most people miss: Natasha didn’t achieve this by sacrificing her life. She worked hard—sometimes pulling 56-hour weeks—but she also traveled the world on a budget, visiting over 40 countries. “It’s not really a balance,” she explains. “It’s just being intentional. Figure out what you care about and spend there—but be ruthless about cutting what you don’t.” This mindset allowed her to stay on track financially while still living a fulfilling life.
Of course, Natasha’s journey wasn’t without missteps. Her biggest mistake? Betting against the market during COVID. “I bought an inverse leveraged ETF because I thought there’s no way the market would recover that quickly,” she recalls. “It did. I lost $5,000 and decided never to bet against the market again.” Bold move, right? But it’s this honesty about her failures that makes her story so relatable. Her biggest gain, on the other hand, came from property. She bought her first apartment during the pandemic when competition was low, and it’s since doubled in value. Talk about timing!
Now, at 28, Natasha is giving back. She runs a podcast, writes books, and helps others—especially young women who feel excluded from financial conversations—get started on their own journeys. But here’s the reality check: while Natasha’s story is inspiring, past performance isn’t a guarantee of future results. Investing always carries risks, and it’s crucial to do your research and make decisions that align with your goals and circumstances.
Natasha’s story is featured on the 7NEWS Money Talks podcast, powered by Vanguard, where she joins host Tim McMillan to break down how simple, consistent investing can change your financial future. The podcast cuts through the jargon, offering practical insights from Australia’s leading financial minds and real stories from listeners about their money triumphs and struggles. It’s a refreshing take on financial advice—open, honest, and relatable.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: In a world obsessed with quick wins, is the ‘Get Rich Slow’ approach underrated? Or is it the only sustainable path to financial freedom? Let’s start the conversation in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
