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

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 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

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

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

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