Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage.

ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: Kevin describes why he decided to open his own RIA, and what lead to his move. He also talks about what he discovered after the move was made, and talk some "Fact vs Fiction". Companies will often make you feel as if you cannot live without them, Kevin takes you on his journey and why that "may" not be true. Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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