The 9Innings Podcast

By Kevin Thompson, RICP®, CFP®

Kevin Thompson RICP®, CFP® is the founder of 9i Capital Group LLC is the registered investment advisor of 9Innings Capital Group LLc a marketing and consulting firm. On his podcast, he delves into

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FAQs about The 9Innings Podcast:

How many episodes does The 9Innings Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 156 episodes available.

The 9Innings Podcast episodes:

January 20, 2026 🎯 Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor and Red Flags to Watch For
In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, breaks down how to properly interview a financial advisor before entering a long-term relationship.
Kevin highlights the most common mistake he sees, clients not knowing what questions to ask, and walks through a practical framework covering tax advice, compensation, onboarding, specialties, and overall client fit.
The conversation focuses on transparency, alignment, and how to recognize red flags early, so investors can avoid costly mistakes and make confident, informed decisions.
The goal is simple: empower listeners to choose the right advisor and build a successful advisor-client relationship. Kevin wraps by inviting listener questions and sharing additional resources for deeper learning on the topic.
The Problem with Interviewing Advisors (00:00:57)
Why Proper Interviewing Matters (00:02:21)
Who Does the Advisor Work For? (00:05:35)
Understanding the Onboarding Process (00:06:55)
Advisor Specialties, Credentials, and Ideal Client Profile (00:08:38)
What Good Answers and Red Flags Look Like (00:09:52)
Empowerment and Closing Remarks (00:11:10)
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
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14min
January 06, 2026 Ep 160: 👉 “The Fee Debate: Transparency, Incentives, and Who Really Decides”
In this episode of "The 9innings Podcast," host Kevin Thompson and guest Sarah Grillo discuss the ongoing debate over fee structures in financial advising, focusing on flat fee versus assets under management (AUM) models. They explore the importance of transparency, fairness, and client communication, highlighting how different models impact advisor incentives and client relationships. Sarah shares insights from her Transparency Movement, while both agree that building trust and adapting to client needs are key. The episode emphasizes that multiple fee models can coexist, and success depends on clear communication, transparency, and a client-centered approach.
Fee Model Polarization Explained (00:04:56)
Fairness and Service Alignment in Fee Models (00:07:42)
Competitive Advantage Through Transparency (00:12:57)
Multiple Business Models in Practice (00:16:37)
Defining Best Interest and Flat Fee Variations (00:19:26)
Addressing Conflicts of Interest (00:21:12)
Sustainability and Capitalism in Fee Models (00:26:09)
Entrepreneurship and Social Media Echo Chambers (00:31:18)
Final Thoughts: Market Decides & Relationship Building (00:33:36)
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
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40min
December 16, 2025 👉 “2026 Retirement Planning: Tax and Medicare Changes You Can’t Ignore”
In this episode of the 9Innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, breaks down the most important financial planning considerations retirees need to understand heading into 2026. Kevin explains key tax changes, including the Enhanced Senior Deduction and the new above-the-line auto loan interest deduction, and outlines strategies for maximizing the standard deduction. He also discusses rising Medicare premiums, IRMAA exposure, and how to evaluate Medicare Advantage versus Original Medicare with Medigap. Throughout the episode, Kevin emphasizes proactive planning to manage taxes and healthcare costs, helping retirees make informed decisions and protect long-term retirement income.
Enhanced Senior Deduction (00:01:07)
Above-the-Line Car Loan Interest Deduction (00:03:12)
Stacking Deductions and Standard Deduction Planning (00:04:21)
Medicare Premiums and IRMAA (00:05:31)
IRMAA Triggers and Tax Coordination (00:07:55)
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare (00:08:52)
Medigap and Underwriting Considerations (00:10:39)
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
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16min
December 09, 2025 🔥 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
...more
29min
December 02, 2025 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
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26min
November 25, 2025 💰 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
...more
45min
November 18, 2025 🔥 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
...more
18min
November 11, 2025 🌍 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
...more
52min
November 04, 2025 🔥“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
...more
27min
October 28, 2025 🔥“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
...more
15min

FAQs about The 9Innings Podcast:

How many episodes does The 9Innings Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 156 episodes available.