The Layperson's Guide to Buying and Securing Your First Amount of Bitcoin

The Wealth Matters 3.0 Checklist for taking the intimidation and friction out of getting started and self-custody

Happy Friday! I have heard from countless readers who are interested in saving some of their long-term money in Bitcoin, but who feel confused (and maybe embarrassed) that they don’t know how or where to do it. DON’T WORRY. You are in the majority and not alone. So here's an attempt to give you a simplified, checklist-style guide for first-time Bitcoin investors with clear explanations of key terms:

The Wealth Matters 3.0 Bitcoin Starter Kit:

A Simple 7-Step Checklist

(With "Learn More" Sections for Curious Minds)

✅ Step 1: Pick Your Exchange
Choose one of the below regulated platforms:

• Coinbase (easiest interface)

• eToro (good for copy-trading and also stocks plus crypto)

• Binance.US (more coin options)

• Kraken (Best overall for traders IMHO)

Why regulated matters: These platforms verify identities, follow financial laws, and have been stress-tested.

✅ Step…