The 9Innings Podcast

The 9Innings Podcast

by Kevin Thompson, RICP®, CFP®
EntrepreneurshipSelf-Improvement

(Ep.130): Top 3 Financial Designations: CFP®, CFA, CPA – What’s the Difference? #fiduciary

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: In this episode of the 9Innings Podcast we explore the "alphabet soup" of financial industry designations: CFP, CPA, and CFA. Kevin explains that CFPs are the gold standard in financial planning, emphasizing their fiduciary duty to act in clients' best interests. CPAs are highlighted for their expertise in tax preparation and financial reporting, with an additional credential for financial planning. CFAs are recognized for their investment analysis mastery, requiring extensive study and experience. Understanding these designations helps consumers make informed decisions about their financial advisors. Overview of Financial Designations (00:01:02) CFP: The Gold Standard (00:03:42) Role of CFP Professionals (00:05:05) Importance of CFP Credentials (00:06:00) CPA: Certified Public Accountant (00:07:00) CPAs and Financial Planning (00:08:34) CFA: Chartered Financial Analyst (00:09:58) Understanding Industry Designations (00:12:48) Conclusion: Choosing the Right Professional (00:14:06) 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
E130
May 20, 2025
15:11

Episode 129: 🚨 Feds Under Fire: What Government Employees Must Know 🚨

In this podcast episode, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, discusses three significant proposals impacting government employees. He explains the potential elimination of the FERS pension supplement, which could financially strain early retirees. Kevin also addresses the proposed shift from a high-3 to a high-5 pension calculation, potentially reducing pension benefits and complicating financial planning. Lastly, he explores the reinstatement of Schedule F, which could reclassify certain federal employees as at-will, removing civil service protections and increasing job insecurity. Kevin emphasizes the importance of staying informed and engaged with these critical issues. Overview of Proposals (00:01:06) Discussion of three main proposals affecting government employees: FERS pension supplement, pension calculation changes, and Schedule F. Elimination of the FERS Pension Supplement (00:02:29) Kevin explains the potential impact of eliminating the pension supplement for new retirees under 62. Impact of Changing from High-3 to High-5 (00:05:21) Details on how changing the pension calculation from the highest three to five years will affect benefits. Reinstatement of Schedule F (00:12:19) Discussion on the implications of reclassifying federal employees to at-will status and loss of job protections. Conclusion and Support for Government Employees (00:16:41) Kevin emphasizes the importance of government employees and expresses support against the proposed changes. 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
E129
May 13, 2025
18:42

Ep 128: From MLM to IUL: The Unfiltered Reality of Financial Product Promotion

In this episode of the "9 Innings Podcast," host Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, and guest Andy Panko from Tenon Financial discuss the impact of market volatility on the promotion of Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance products. Kevin emphasizes the importance of financial education and empowerment, while Andy critiques the aggressive sales tactics used by some IUL promoters, particularly those from multi-level marketing backgrounds. They highlight the misconceptions surrounding IULs and stress the need for consumers to be well-informed and cautious when evaluating financial products. Promoting IUL Products (00:02:09) Critique of Salesperson Expertise (00:05:13) Multi-Level Marketing Dynamics (00:07:59) Training and Recruitment Issues (00:09:05) Critique of 401(k) Comparisons (00:13:41) Personal Experiences with IUL Advocates (00:17:17) Market Volatility and Financial Products (00:21:08) Permanent Life Insurance Considerations (00:25:37) Industry Incentives and Ethics (00:30:00) Term vs. Permanent Insurance (00:34:17) Closing Remarks and Takeaways (00:35:40) 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 Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E128
May 6, 2025
36:59

Ep 127: 🔥 "The Hidden MVPs of Tax Planning: Above-the-Line Deductions!" 🎙️💰

In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson delves into the topic of "above the line deductions" to help listeners lower their adjusted gross income (AGI). Using relatable analogies like baseball, Kevin breaks down complex tax concepts into understandable and actionable steps. He covers common deductions such as educator expenses, retirement contributions, student loan interest, and Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions. Kevin also highlights additional deductions for self-employed individuals. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the importance of understanding these deductions to maximize tax savings and keep more money in one's pocket. Understanding Above the Line Deductions (00:01:05) Importance of Adjusted Gross Income (00:02:30) Common Above the Line Deductions (00:03:43) Health Savings Account Contributions (00:06:17) Self-Employment Tax Deductions (00:07:31) Unique Deductions and Wild Cards (00:08:58) Action Steps for Tax Savings (00:10:14) Conclusion and Wrap Up (00:11:17) 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
E127
Apr 29, 2025
11:52

Ep 126: “Did Trump Break The Economy... Or Was It Already Cracked?” w/ Andrea Kennedy CFP®

In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, hosted by Kevin Thompson, the discussion focuses on pressing economic issues with guest Andrea Kennedy from Wiser Wealth. Key topics include significant market declines, the end of economic cycles, and their relationship to inflation and monetary policy. The conversation delves into the inflationary impact of tariffs, the implications of proposed tax cuts, and the urgency of reshoring manufacturing. Andrea shares insights on strategic investment shifts towards commodities and the global trade dynamics concerning the U.S. dollar. The episode underscores the need for clarity in policy-making to foster investor confidence and economic stability. End of Economic Cycle (00:02:39) Reshoring and Economic Policy (00:06:44) Investor Sentiment and Market Reaction (00:10:12) Legislative Rumors and Tax Implications (00:14:09) Housing Market Dynamics (00:18:15) Impact of Tariffs on Agriculture (00:20:12) Dollarization and Global Trade (00:25:52) Historical Context of Economic Policies (00:29:38) Investor Advice (00:33:15) Closing Remarks (00:34:10) NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2ei... 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-... 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
E126
Apr 22, 2025
35:14

Ep 125: Tax Season Survival: Mastering the Art of Strategic Planning

In this podcast episode, We converse with Catherine Tindall, a CPA and partner at Dominion Enterprise Services, about the critical importance of proactive tax planning. They discuss common mistakes business owners make during tax season, such as waiting until the last minute and not engaging in ongoing tax planning. Catherine highlights audit triggers and the significance of profit management. They also explore how financial advisors can build better relationships with CPAs to enhance client outcomes. The episode aims to educate and empower listeners to optimize their tax strategies effectively. Common Tax Mistakes (00:02:11) . Profit Management Discussion (00:05:32) . Audit Triggers for Business Owners (00:08:11) Challenges in Tax Filing (00:10:08) Understanding Tax Professionals (00:12:48) Avoiding Overly Complex Interactions (00:16:40) Practical Strategy for Client Situations (00:16:54) Biggest Tax Pet Peeve (00:18:26) Client Expectations from Tax Professionals (00:21:35) Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:22:50) 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: https://www.facebook.com/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
E125
Apr 15, 2025
26:22

Episode 124: Money & Emotions! How Emotions Shape Our Financial Decisions?

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson, founder of 9i Capital Group, and Joy Slabaugh MTax, MA, LACMH CFP®, explore the emotional and psychological dimensions of financial decision-making. Kevin shares a personal story about a client’s emotional distress due to financial losses, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' emotional experiences with money. Joy discusses her focus on the behavioral aspects of finance, highlighting how attitudes and beliefs about money impact happiness and financial decisions. The episode underscores the need for financial advisors to engage deeply with clients to foster better financial well-being. Joy's Background and Focus (00:03:34) Consumerism and Society (00:06:40) Client Case Study (00:08:29) Shifts in Client Behavior (00:11:12) Psychological Manipulation in Marketing (00:12:35) Approaching Financial Conversations (00:14:42) Emotional Responses in Decision-Making (00:16:28) Advisors' Growth Cycle (00:18:09) Importance of Emotional Relationships (00:22:02) 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: https://www.facebook.com/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
E124
Apr 8, 2025
23:33

Ep 123: 🚀 Can Elon Truly Balance the National Budget? Let's Dive Into The Numbers!

In this episode of the 9Innings Podcast, I, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, explore the possibility of balancing the U.S. federal budget. I break down the national deficit, government spending, and tax revenue, proposing potential solutions like budget cuts and tax reforms. I use hypothetical scenarios, including significant spending cuts and implementing tariffs, to illustrate paths to a balanced budget. I emphasize the complexities of economics versus simple math, highlighting the potential impacts on the economy. The episode aims to educate and engage listeners on this critical financial issue, encouraging informed discussions about the nation's fiscal future. Creative Budget Cuts Scenario (00:02:05) Tax Cuts and Revenue Impact (00:03:19) Tariffs and Revenue Generation (00:04:27) Final Revenue Calculations (00:05:45) Elon’s Budget Cuts Revisited (00:07:07) Economic Growth Considerations (00:10:21) 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 Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure
E123
Apr 1, 2025
13:58

Ep 122: Tax Cuts! A Good Deal or A Bitter Pill?

In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, The Cost of Tax Cuts - Who Really Pays the Bill?", host Kevin Thompson, critically analyzes three bipartisan tax proposals: no tax on tips for service workers, no federal tax on the first $150,000 of income, and eliminating social security taxation. Kevin argues that while these proposals may seem beneficial, they could lead to negative outcomes such as increased deficits and reduced employer incentives to raise wages. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the long-term consequences and who ultimately bears the cost of these tax cuts. No Tax on Tips (00:02:06) No Federal Tax on First $150,000 of Income (00:04:40) Eliminating Social Security Tax (00:08:04) Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:10:18) 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 My Book: 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/d/15bCWFaRZx75o5TU9b0Z9BiW3snRi-xhJ/p/1zofijMGt0S0jtmKcQL9m-quQgzbbS3xj/edit?pli=1
E122
Mar 25, 2025
12:23

Ep 121: The Hidden Dangers of Unqualified Financial Experts: How to Protect Yourself

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: In this podcast episode, Kevin Thompson and Ryan Hughes of Bull Oak Investments, discuss the financial advisory industry's challenges, particularly for smaller Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs). They explore the difficulties in talent acquisition due to industry consolidation and financial constraints. The conversation also highlights the rise of unqualified individuals claiming to be financial experts, stressing the need for stronger enforcement and consumer education. Additionally, they touch on current market conditions, inflation, and economic policies, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships and maintaining integrity within the industry. The episode provides valuable insights into the complex financial landscape. Challenges of Talent Acquisition (00:01:42) Hiring Experiences and Lessons (00:04:00) Social Media and Misleading Financial Claims (00:06:36) Need for Stronger Enforcement (00:09:36) Proposed Solutions for Identifying Experts (00:12:13) Contrarian Views on Inflation (00:15:15) Pandemic's Impact on Inflation (00:18:32) Investor Sentiment and Market Trends (00:20:49) American Innovation vs. European Pessimism (00:22:58) Closing Thoughts on American Values (00:24:06) 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 My Book: 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/d/15bCWFaRZx75o5TU9b0Z9BiW3snRi-xhJ/p/1zofijMGt0S0jtmKcQL9m-quQgzbbS3xj/edit?pli=1
E121
Mar 18, 2025
27:05
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