Next Level 315: From Being in a Near Death Coma to Real Estate Investor at 16 with Nick Prefontaine

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Resilience is often forged in life’s most difficult moments. For Nick Prefontaine, a devastating snowboarding accident at just 14 years old became the defining event that transformed his perspective on life, success, and personal growth. In this inspiring episode of the Next Level Income Podcast, Nick shares how he overcame unimaginable challenges and turned tragedy into a mission to help others unlock their full potential.

Nick’s journey began with what seemed like an impossible setback. After a life threatening snowboarding accident left him in a coma, doctors warned his family that he might never walk, talk, or eat independently again. Faced with overwhelming uncertainty, his future appeared bleak. Yet Nick refused to let those predictions define his life. Through relentless determination, rehabilitation, and an unwavering commitment to taking one step at a time, he gradually rebuilt his life.

Rather than allowing adversity to become his identity, Nick used it as fuel. His recovery taught him that success is rarely achieved through giant leaps. Instead, meaningful progress comes from consistently taking the next right step. This philosophy ultimately became the foundation of the STEP System, a practical framework designed to help people overcome obstacles, regain confidence, and move toward their personal and professional goals.

One of the most remarkable chapters of Nick’s story is his introduction to real estate investing. At just 16 years old, while many teenagers were focused on typical high school activities, Nick was already building wealth through real estate. His early success demonstrates that age is never the determining factor in achieving financial freedom. Instead, discipline, education, perseverance, and the willingness to learn create opportunities regardless of life’s circumstances.

Throughout the conversation, Nick emphasizes that setbacks are not permanent. Every challenge presents an opportunity to grow stronger, develop resilience, and discover capabilities that may have otherwise remained hidden. His personal experience serves as powerful proof that even the darkest moments can become the foundation for extraordinary success.

Nick also discusses his work as the founder of Common Goal, a movement dedicated to helping individuals identify their purpose and take meaningful action toward achieving it. Whether someone is facing personal hardship, business challenges, or uncertainty about their future, his message remains consistent: progress begins by focusing on the next achievable step instead of becoming overwhelmed by the entire journey.

Listeners will also gain insight into the mindset required to overcome fear, embrace uncertainty, and continue moving forward despite obstacles. Nick’s story is not simply about surviving a tragic accident. It is about choosing growth over defeat, purpose over pain, and action over excuses.

This episode offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, investors, professionals, and anyone navigating difficult seasons in life. Nick Prefontaine reminds us that resilience is not something we are born with. It is something we build through consistent action, unwavering belief, and the courage to keep moving forward one step at a time.

If you are searching for inspiration, practical strategies for overcoming adversity, or motivation to pursue your next level of success, this episode delivers an unforgettable conversation that will leave you ready to take your own next step.

Resources & Links

🌐 http://www.nickprefontaine.com/
🌐 http://smartrealestatecoach.com/

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I hope you found this episode valuable. Check out https://chris-larsen.mykajabi.com/coachingprogram to learn more about our coaching program and read some testimonials from our previous students. You can also book a call with us to learn more and find out if this program is good fit for you.

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Christopher Larsen is the founder and Managing Partner of Next-Level Income. Since “retiring” after 18 years in the medical device industry he dedicates his time to helping others become financially independent through education and investment opportunities. Chris has been investing in and managing real estate for over 20 years.

While completing his degree in Biomechanical Engineering and M.B.A. in Finance at Virginia Tech, he bought his first single-family rental at age 21. Chris expanded into development, private-lending, buying distressed debt as well as commercial office, and ultimately syndicating multifamily properties. He began syndicating deals in 2016 and has been actively involved in over $500M of real estate acquisitions.

In addition to real estate, Chris has invested in equities, oil & gas, and small business lending, as well as being active in Venture South, one of the nation’s Top 10 Angel Investing groups. Chris lives with his wife and two boys (and Viszla, Lucy!) in Asheville, NC where he loves spending time with them in the outdoors and enjoying the food and culture that the region has to offer.

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