The 9Innings Podcast

The 9Innings Podcast

por Kevin Thompson, RICP®, CFP®
EmprendimientoSuperación personal

🔥 Breaking Barriers: A Financial Advisor’s Journey of Perseverance 💪

In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, host Kevin Thompson sits down with Chelsea Ransom-Cooper — CFP Board member and wealth advisor — to discuss her path in the financial advisory world. Chelsea opens up about her partnership with Jason Ray, the challenges of launching her own firm, and the significance of representation and the CFP® designation. The two dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, client relationship building, and the changing landscape of financial planning — offering insight and inspiration for both aspiring and seasoned advisors. Chelsea & Jason Ray: How They Met (00:01:51) Building the Partnership & Early Career Moves (00:03:33) The Value and Evolution of the CFP (00:06:24) First Steps as an Entrepreneur (00:13:02) Role as a CFP Board Ambassador (00:17:54) Advice for Young Advisors (00:22:25) Final Words of Wisdom & Closing (00:26:03) NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E158
9 dic 2025
28:38

FA Unfiltered: Ep 1: 🔍 Insurance Incentives: The Industry Truth w Rick Luchini

Welcome to FA Unfiltered, the show where we strip away the jargon, the sales scripts, and the corporate polish to reveal how financial advice really works. In our debut episode, I sit down with Rick Luchini of Luchini Financial to pull back the curtain on the insurance industry — from the recruiting pitch to the incentives that drive sales and the challenges of putting clients first. Whether you’re an investor trying to understand what motivates your advisor or a financial professional questioning the system, this conversation exposes how incentives shape behavior, trust, and transparency in our business. 🎙️ What You’ll Learn How insurance reps are trained to sell, not advise The hidden influence of commissions and production goals Why good advisors are walking away from (00:00:00) Introduction and Industry Beginnings (00:02:00) Recruiting, Training, and the Sales Machine (00:05:00) Culture, Kool-Aid, and Conflicts of Interest A candid discussion about the cult-like sales culture, pressure to perform, and how compensation structures drive recommendations that may not serve the client’s best interest. (00:08:30) Regulation, Titles, and the Fiduciary Fight (00:12:00) Sales vs. True Financial Planning (00:16:30) Insurance Models, Mis-Selling, and Lessons Learned (00:21:00) The Move to Fee-Only and Final Takeaways NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E1
2 dic 2025
25:10

💰 Avoid the IRMAA Trap: Smart Tax Moves for a Stress-Free Retirement w/ Paul Morrison

In this episode, we interview Paul Morrison, an IRMAA-certified planner from Lincoln, Nebraska. They discuss the impact of IRMAA (Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) on retirees’ Medicare premiums and Social Security benefits, highlighting how rising taxable income can trigger higher costs. Paul explains the complexities of IRMAA, the importance of proactive tax planning, and strategies like Roth conversions to minimize surcharges. The conversation also covers Medicare Advantage, the “widow’s penalty,” and the need for better financial education. The episode blends personal stories with practical advice for navigating retirement’s hidden tax challenges. (03:25) – From College Athletes to Retirees (04:10) – What Is IRMAA? (06:00) – The Tax Trigger (10:20) – How the Brackets Are Set (13:40) – Tax Planning & the SSA-44 Form (19:45) – Medicare Advantage & IRMAA (23:15) – Strategies to Reduce IRMAA (25:55) – The Widow’s Penalty (29:06) - Long-Term Care, RMDs, and IRMA (31:21) - IRMA Certification Details (34:57) - Roth Conversions and Standard Deduction NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E157
25 nov 2025
44:42

🔥 Don't Let Your 401(k) Turn into a Tax Time Bomb!

In this episode of the 9Innings Podcast, I break down the hidden tax traps inside your 401(k). Most people think pre-tax contributions are an automatic win—but the tax bill eventually comes due. We walk through how RMDs, rollover mistakes, and poor documentation can trigger unexpected taxes, higher Medicare premiums, and even push more of your Social Security into the taxable column. I also share real-life examples of how a simple error—like a tax professional misreporting Form 8606 basis—can cost retirees thousands. This episode is all about avoiding land mines: understanding IRS rules, tracking your paperwork, and being proactive so you can keep more of what you’ve earned. (00:00:00) Introduction & Why 401(k)s Create Hidden Tax Traps (00:00:58) Pre-Tax Contributions & The Future Tax Bill (00:03:46) RMD Shock: How Distributions Raise Taxes & Medicare Premiums (00:06:16) The Rollover Minefield: After-Tax vs. Pre-Tax vs. Roth (00:07:38) Real Case Study: The Form 8606 Basis Error (00:12:39) The Widow’s Penalty & Timing Risks in Retirement (00:14:54) How to Avoid 401(k) Tax Traps NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E156
18 nov 2025
17:35

🌍 Running Your Own Race: Global Perspectives in Financial Planning w/ Mark Hedderman 🇮🇪

In this episode, I sit down with Mark Hedderman of Hedderman Financial Solutions in Ireland. We talk about how we met at the Future Proof Festival and what stood out about the culture there—real collaboration, transparency, and advisors actually helping each other grow. Mark shares the evolution of financial planning in Ireland and how the profession has shifted from product sales to real, client-centered advice. We discuss the importance of ongoing education, mentorship, and developing as both a professional and a person. We also get into what it means to be an advisor today—showing up for clients not just with numbers, but with empathy, support, and clarity through life’s major transitions. At the core of our conversation is the idea that success in this business isn’t about being the biggest or loudest—it’s about authenticity, meaningful relationships, and helping people live better lives. (00:00) Future Proof & First Impressions (02:00) Openness Over Competition (04:00) Mentorship & Collective Growth (06:00) Accessibility of Industry Leaders (09:30) Founding Hedderman Financial Solutions (12:45) CFP Standards & Raising the Bar in Ireland (16:00) Regulation: Ireland/EU vs. United States (20:30) Real-World Financial Planning (28:15) Human Connection, Media Noise & Mental Health (34:50) Legacy, Balance & Advice to Younger Advisors NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E155
11 nov 2025
51:58

🔥“From Paychecks to Purpose: Redefining Retirement for a Meaningful Life

In this episode, host Kevin Thompson and Certified Financial Planner Practitioner Joy Slabaugh dive into a holistic approach to retirement planning—one that goes far beyond the numbers. They explore the emotional, psychological, and social challenges many retirees face, including the loss of identity, isolation, and shifting purpose. Joy shares how nurturing relationships, staying engaged in the community, and creating purposeful routines can help individuals thrive in retirement. Together, Kevin and Joy challenge the traditional definition of “retirement readiness,” reminding listeners that true fulfillment in retirement isn’t just about financial security—it’s about connection, meaning, and living intentionally. Planning to Retirement vs. Planning for Retirement (00:02:09) Challenges Beyond Money: Emotional and Family Concerns (00:06:01). Warning Signs of Struggling with Retirement Transition (00:08:49) Evolutionary Perspective on Work, Community, and Well-being (00:10:53) Loss of Community & Impact on Well-being (00:12:34) Intentional Community Building in Retirement (00:15:48) Practical Advice: Relationship Inventory (00:21:31) Conclusion & Final Thoughts (00:22:49) NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E154
4 nov 2025
26:02

🔥“Your Emergency Fund Can Save Your Life — and Your Marriage 💔💰”

In this episode of "9innings Podcast," host Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, discusses the critical importance of emergency funds in today’s uncertain economy. He explains what an emergency fund is, why it matters, and recommends saving 9 to 12 months of expenses in liquid, low-risk accounts—challenging the traditional 3 to 6 months’ advice. Kevin emphasizes that a robust emergency fund provides financial stability, peace of mind, and flexibility during job loss or unexpected expenses, empowering listeners to make better decisions without fear or desperation. Why Emergency Funds Matter in Today’s Economy (00:00:59) The Emotional and Relationship Impact of Emergency Funds (00:03:26) How Much Should You Save? (00:05:39) Where to Keep Your Emergency Fund (00:06:58) Adjusting Financial Priorities to Build Your Fund (00:08:01) The Psychology of Financial Security (00:10:12) Call to Action: Assess and Build Your Emergency Fund (00:12:32) Closing Remarks and Final Advice (00:13:30) NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 f acebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E153
28 oct 2025
14:26

Ep 152: 🔥 Small But Mighty: Building a Lean, Independent RIA

In this episode of the 9Innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson sits down with Andy Panko of Tenon Financial to reflect on their experiences at the Future Proof Festival — an innovative outdoor conference designed for the next generation of financial advisors. They dive into: The event’s unique format and open-air networking vibe The collaborative, rising-tide culture of the RIA community The power of specializing in client niches and knowing your lane Real-world strategies for adopting technology without getting overwhelmed The impact of mentorship, mastermind groups, and shared knowledge Why authenticity, intentional growth, and intentionality matter more than “hustle culture” Conference Participation & Value (00:02:17) Collaboration in the RIA Industry (00:04:09) Niching Strategies in Advisory Firms (00:06:39) Debate on the value of niching, how niches develop naturally, and different approaches to specialization. Technology in Advisory Practices (00:08:39) Tech Choices and Compliance (00:11:04) Mentorship and Community Support (00:16:15) Knowing Your Why & Defining Success (00:18:30) Cyclical Nature of Advisory Business (00:23:41) Intentionality and Running Your Own Race (00:29:10) NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E152
21 oct 2025
32:39

Ep 151: 🔥 Are You Making These Costly 401(k) Mistakes?

In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, host Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, discusses six common mistakes people make with their 401(k) retirement plans. He covers misunderstandings about plan rules, improper rollover techniques, unnecessary fees, risk tolerance, financial advisor affiliations, and advisor compensation. Kevin offers practical tips to help listeners avoid costly errors and maximize their retirement savings. Mistake 1: Not Knowing 401(k) Rules (00:00:53) Mistake 2: Improper Rollover Techniques (00:04:18) Mistake 3: Paying More for Less Value (00:06:26) Mistake 4: Misunderstanding Risk Tolerance (00:07:27) Mistake 5: Influence of Financial Advisor Affiliations (00:10:33) Mistake 6: Understanding Advisor Compensation and Rollover Comparisons (00:13:33) NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E151
14 oct 2025
16:37

Ep 150:🔥 “The AI Revolution Is Just Getting Started — Ivana Delevska on What’s Coming Next”

In this episode of the 9Innings Podcast, I sit down with Ivana Delevska, founder and CIO of Spear Invest, to talk about the current state — and the future — of artificial intelligence. We dig into: The market fundamentals driving AI’s rapid rise The U.S.–China tech rivalry and what it means for investors Energy and infrastructure challenges that could shape the next decade The growing role of government in AI development and oversight Ivana shares why adaptability and continuous learning will be critical for young professionals and how AI will transform productivity across industries. She also highlights where the biggest investment opportunities lie as this new era unfolds. We wrap up on an optimistic note — that AI isn’t just about replacing jobs, but about creating new value, industries, and opportunities for those ready to evolve. AI Market Outlook vs. Dot-Com Bubble (00:01:10) China’s Role in AI Chip Manufacturing (00:03:17) Capacity and Investment Bottlenecks (00:06:33) Data Centers and Energy Costs (00:07:43) Consumer Benefits and Market Dynamics (00:08:34) Speculation, IPOs, and Market Risks (00:11:46) Government Intervention in AI Companies (00:14:05) Market Run-Up and Potential Downside (00:16:28) AI’s 5-10 Year Outlook (00:19:01) AI’s Impact on Jobs and Education (00:22:32) Siri, Alexa, and the Future of AI Assistants (00:25:12) Closing Thoughts and Optimism for AI (00:27:14) NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4 Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E150
7 oct 2025
29:29
5 de 20