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 151 episodes available.

The 9Innings Podcast episodes:

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
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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
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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
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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
October 21, 2025Ep 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
...more
33min
October 14, 2025 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
...more
17min
October 07, 2025Ep 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
...more
30min
September 30, 2025 🔥“ Fed’s 25 Basis Point Cut: What It Really Means for You”
In this episode of the "9innigns Podcast," Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, analyzes the Federal Reserve’s recent 25 basis point rate cut. He explains that while the cut aims to stimulate economic growth, its impact on consumers is minimal due to high borrowing costs and tight lending standards. Thompson highlights that the primary beneficiary is the U.S. government, which can refinance its debt more cheaply. He also clarifies that mortgage rates are unlikely to fall significantly, as they are driven by broader market forces rather than the Fed’s short-term rate adjustments.
Limited Consumer Impact of Rate Cut (00:02:35)
Government as Main Beneficiary (00:03:59)
Mortgage Rates and Market Forces (00:05:05)
Economic Contradictions and Realities (00:06:17)
Fed’s Balancing Act and Overheating Risks (00:07:39)
Summary and Sticky Inflation Warning (00:09:10)
Closing Remarks and Call to Action (00:11:51)
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
13min
September 23, 2025 Ep 148: Debunking Tax Myths That Could Cost You Thousands
In this episode, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, tackles five widespread tax myths popularized by social media influencers. He clarifies misconceptions about LLC tax benefits, the tax obligations of the wealthy, hiring children for tax savings, filing requirements for low-income earners, and reporting small amounts of income. Kevin emphasizes the importance of legitimate business practices, accurate income reporting, and always filing tax returns to maximize refunds and avoid IRS issues. He encourages listeners to seek reliable advice, subscribe to the podcast, and explore his book for further financial education.
Myth 1: Starting an LLC for Tax Benefits (00:00:54)
Myth 2: The Rich Don’t Pay Taxes (00:03:41)
How the Ultra-Wealthy Reduce Taxes (00:06:03)
Myth 3: Hiring Your Children for Tax Advantages (00:07:18)
Myth 4: No Need to File Taxes Below Standard Deduction (00:09:37)
Myth 5: Not Reporting Income Under $600 (00:10:57)
Conclusion and Thoughts on “Advanced Tax Planning” (00:12:13)
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
15min

FAQs about The 9Innings Podcast:

How many episodes does The 9Innings Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 151 episodes available.