The 9Innings Podcast

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: In this episode, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, breaks down the recent changes to Texas property tax laws, with a focus on the 2024 homestead exemption updates and what I call the “Texas Two Step.” We walk through how stricter enforcement is impacting homeowners—especially those who have placed their homes into trusts—and I use my parents’ situation as a real-world example. The key takeaway: you need to make sure your trust documents are structured correctly, respond to appraisal district notices on time, and stay proactive. If you don’t, you risk losing one of the most valuable tax benefits available to Texas homeowners. This is one of those areas where a small oversight can cost you thousands, so working with the right professionals matters. Texas Two-Step and Homestead Exemption Changes (00:00:55) Trust Transfers and Homestead Exemption Risks (00:02:13) Importance of Trust Language Post-2024 Law (00:04:26) Reapplication Notices and Legislative Background (00:06:54) Fraud Prevention and Systemic Impact (00:08:21) Texas Requirements for Homestead Exemption (00:10:44) Conclusion and Final Advice (00:13:02) 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: / 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

In this episode of Facts Over Feelings, on the 9innings Podcast Channel, Kevin Thompson breaks down the chaos of tax season—what he calls “1099 Madness.”He dives into how the Social Security Fairness Act is impacting retirees, and why many are facing unexpected tax bills due to unadjusted withholdings. He also clears up a major misconception around larger refunds, explaining that most are simply the result of over-withholding—not new tax breaks.Lastly, Kevin highlights a time-sensitive opportunity to reclaim late filing penalties and interest from 2019–2024.The message is simple: tax season isn’t just about filing—it’s about understanding what’s actually happening and planning ahead.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

In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, breaksdown the recent “O3B” tax bill and what it actually means for taxpayers. He explains that much of the legislation simply extends provisions from the 2017 tax cuts, rather than creating entirely new ones, meaning most Americans shouldn’t expect dramatic changes to their tax bill.Kevin also addresses the larger refunds some taxpayers are seeing, explaining that many of them are the result of over-withholding earlier in the year after the law was passed mid-2025, not necessarily new tax savings. The episode highlights where the real benefits are concentrated—primarily among seniors, business owners, and higher-income households—and reinforces a key takeaway: real tax savings usually come from proper tax planning, not just changes in legislation.Introduction & Episode Overview (00:00:00) Are the Tax Cuts Actually Saving Money? (00:01:00) .Why Refunds Look Bigger (00:04:55) Who Actually Benefits from the Bill (00:07:17) Why Tax Planning Matters More Than the Law (00:11:24) 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.comHit the subscribe button to get new content notifications. Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: In this episode of the "9innings Podcast" host Kevin Thompson welcomes Dr. John T. Harvey for an in-depth discussion on the U.S. national debt, inflation, and economic policy. They examine the implications of America’s $39 trillion debt, compare it to Japan’s situation, and discuss the roles of demographics, immigration, and government spending. The conversation explores the effectiveness of monetary policy, the importance of education and social safety nets, and the challenges of economic inequality, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on the complexities facing the modern U.S. economy. 00:00 — Introduction & Why the Debt Conversation Matters 01:49 — U.S. vs. Japan: Debt, Demographics, and Economic Reality 03:35 — Immigration, Labor, and Social Security Sustainability 08:10 — Inflation, Interest Rates, and Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) 15:08 — Mainstream vs. Alternative Economic Thinking 23:19 — Government Spending, Deficits, and the Private Sector 32:17 — Privatization, Public Goods, and Economic Data Reliability 45:25 — Technology, Marx, and the Future of Work 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

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS ECON 101: the host analyzes the U.S. housing affordability crisis, focusing on the government’s directive for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to buy $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities. The discussion explains why this move is unlikely to meaningfully lower mortgage rates or improve affordability, emphasizing that rates are driven by broader market forces. The episode also highlights the limited impact of compressing mortgage spreads, the offsetting effect of the Federal Reserve’s actions, and the need to address deeper issues like housing supply and wage growth to solve affordability challenges. Government Action and Its Immediate Impact (00:01:14) How Mortgage Rates Are Determined (00:02:32) The Role of Risk Premiums and Market Trust (00:04:13) Understanding Mortgage Spreads (00:05:37) Potential for Policy to Backfire (00:06:44) Risks and Unintended Consequences (00:08:03) Key Takeaways for Buyers, Homeowners, and Investors (00:09:29)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

In this podcast episode, Altruists' Jason Wenk discusses the launch and impact of Hazel, their AI-driven tax planning and wealth management software. The conversation explores Hazel’s development, strategic release timing, and advanced features—such as real-time data integration, automated tax analysis, and personalized financial planning. Hazel streamlines advisor workflows, reduces reliance on multiple tools, and democratizes sophisticated planning for clients. The episode also covers Hazel’s role in boosting firm efficiency and valuation, its transparent AI-driven recommendations, and the competitive edge Altruist offers over traditional custodians, highlighting Hazel’s transformative potential in the wealth management industry.Altruist Introduction To Tax Planning (2:10)How Is Altruist Disrupting The Indsutry (5:42)What Should We Expect From Hazel Moving Forward (10:20)Hazel and Altruist..The All-in-One Tool? (20:30)Is Ai Accretive to Enterprise Value? (29:20)The Adjustment for Major Custodians (34:00)NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageFollow Us: youtube: / @9icapLinkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428facebook: / mlb2cfp Buy MLB2CFPHere: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.comHit the subscribe button to get new content notifications.Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.comDisclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure

On this episode of the 9Innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson sits down with Derrick Kinney — former financial advisor, successful practice owner, and now coach and speaker to entrepreneurs nationwide.Derrick walks through his journey from grinding it out early in his career to building — and ultimately selling — a thriving advisory firm. He breaks down how authentic community engagement attracted million-dollar clients, why specialization beats commoditization, and how integrity builds long-term enterprise value.The conversation also dives into the emotional side of selling a business, overcoming revenue plateaus, avoiding shiny object syndrome, and why comparison can quietly kill growth.At its core, this episode is about ownership, sacrifice, and running your own race — with practical lessons for advisors and entrepreneurs who want to build something that actually lasts.From Humble Beginnings to Betting on Himself (00:03:24) Community Over Cold Calls (00:04:37) Specialize or Stay Stuck (00:09:46) The Emotional Reality of Selling a Business (00:15:29) The “You Know How” Framework (00:24:00) The Non-Negotiables for Growth (00:32:20) Breaking Revenue Plateaus (00:37:20) Comparison vs. Celebration (00:43:10) 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

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: In this episode of the 9innings Podcast," host Kevin Thompson and guest Tyrone Ross Jr. analyze the recent turmoil in Bitcoin and the broader crypto market. They discuss causes of the downturn, institutional involvement, regulatory uncertainty, and the shift toward permissioned blockchains. Tyrone critiques the dilution of crypto’s original vision, warns of speculative risks, and calls for a market “washout” to eliminate weak projects. The conversation covers blockchain transparency, misconceptions about Bitcoin ownership, and the future of digital assets, emphasizing the need for education, better infrastructure, and a more sustainable crypto ecosystem. Recent Bitcoin Liquidations and Market Downturn (00:01:28) Institutional Involvement and Co-opting of Crypto (00:03:50) Crypto’s Original Sins and Market Narratives (00:06:47) Altcoins, Scams, and Market Washout (00:08:11) Problems with Crypto Trading and Market Structure (00:11:43) Regulatory and Custody Challenges (00:14:53) Venture Capital, Founders, and Retail Burnout (00:17:36) Blockchain Transparency and Traceability (00:22:16) Long-Term Vision for Crypto and Blockchain (00:25:27) High Interest Rates in Crypto and DeFi Risks (00:28:36) 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

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage. ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: In this episode of 9innings Podcast, host Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, explores the rising costs of homeowner’s insurance, focusing on Texas but noting nationwide trends. He explains why premiums and deductibles—especially for wind and hail—are increasing, often based on inflated home replacement values. Kevin shares personal policy details, highlights the financial strain on homeowners, and discusses the lack of true competition in the insurance market. He urges listeners to shop around, be proactive, and understand the broader affordability challenges facing both homeowners and renters today. Rising Homeowner’s Insurance and Deductibles (00:01:05) Replacement Value vs. Tax Base (00:02:25) Escrow, Mortgage Payments, and Cost Increases (00:03:32)Financing High Deductibles (00:04:35) Wind and Hail Deductible Trends in Texas (00:06:53) Personal Policy Example and Financial Impact (00:08:18) Insurance Market Competition and Lobbying (00:11:03) Market Structure and Profits (00:13:25) 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

Can you really use your 401(k) to buy a house — and would that actually make housing more affordable?There’s growing discussion around a proposal tied to Donald Trump that would allow Americans to tap their 401(k) retirement savings for a home purchase, potentially without early withdrawal penalties. On the surface, it sounds helpful. But Econ 101 tells us the second-order effects matter.In this show Kevin Thompson, CFP®, EA, RICP®, founder of 9i Capital Group explains how this would actually work from a tax perspective, how it compares to first-time homebuyer IRA rules, and why increasing access to retirement money could ultimately push home prices higher.You’ll learn:▶️ How 401(k) withdrawals are taxed (penalty vs taxable income)▶️ Why housing affordability is more about price than interest rates▶️ How increased demand impacts home values▶️ The long-term risk of pulling from retirement accountsThis is financial education — not political commentary.👍 Like, subscribe, and share if this helped you think differently.Full video:https://youtu.be/ptT9MlsmO5INEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageFollow Us: youtube: / @9icapLinkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428 facebook: / mlb2cfpBuy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.comHit the subscribe button to get new content notifications.Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure

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

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: / @9icapLinkedin: / 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

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

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 MLB2CFPHere: 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