Ahead In The Count

BIP Wealth
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On top of over 25 years of professional baseball experience, the BIP Wealth baseball division has established successful careers as financial advisors, helping newly drafted to recently retired players meet their financial goals. Take away something fresh, or find clarity on what was confusing before in the intersection of life on and off the field on Ahead in the Count, presented by BIP Wealth, with Nolan Alexander.

  1. MAR 6

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 117 - Baseball Tax Prep with Allie Powell

    Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth.   Tax season is here, and for professional baseball players, the stakes couldn't be higher. This timely episode welcomes BIP Wealth tax advisor Allie Powell and baseball division member John Hester to break down everything ball players—and their families—need to know about taxes in 2026. From the landmark changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBB) to SEP IRA strategies for college athletes earning NIL money, this episode is a must-listen for current and future MLB draft picks, minor leaguers, and their families.   •       What the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBB) means for baseball players' taxes •       The major SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction change from $10,000 to $40,000 •       How to optimize W-2 income vs. 1099 endorsement/NIL income •       Why a SEP IRA is a game-changer for college athletes with NIL deals •       Understanding estimated tax payments and the IRS Safe Harbor rule •       Tax planning strategies for MLB draft signing bonuses •       The power of donor-advised funds for charitable giving deductions •       Why compound growth in tax-deferred accounts over 40 years is "incredible"     To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

    18 min

  2. FEB 16

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 116 - CIO Eric Cramer's 2026 Annual Market Report: Investment Strategies for a Changing Global Economy

    Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth. In this must-listen episode of Ahead in the Count, BIP Wealth's Chief Investment Officer Eric Cramer delivers his highly anticipated 2026 Annual Market Report, breaking down the most important investment trends and opportunities for the year ahead. Hosts Nolan Alexander and the baseball division's Jeremy Hermida explore what last year's market performance means for investors and how to position portfolios for success in an evolving global economy. Discover how international markets performed relative to the S&P 500 in 2025, learn strategic shifts in fixed income investing, and understand how AI is reshaping corporate America. Whether you're a professional athlete managing career earnings or an investor seeking clarity in uncertain times, this episode provides actionable insights for building wealth in 2026.   Key Topics  2025 Market Performance Review  S&P 500 returns: Up 17.5% in 2025 International developed markets: Gained 32% (nearly 2x US performance) Emerging markets: Up 33%+ Tech stock volatility and recovery Cryptocurrency market challenges The Great International Outperformance  Why foreign markets crushed US returns Dollar weakness and currency effects How diversification paid off for BIP Wealth clients Compound returns from foreign equity and currency appreciation AI Revolution: From Hype to Reality  Shift from AI creators to AI users Valuation concerns for Big Tech Corporate America's AI adoption wave Why non-AI companies face unprecedented volatility 2026 Investment Themes & Strategies  Price-earnings ratios: Top 10 tech stocks vs. S&P 490  Global economic power structure transformation Tariff impacts and trade realignments Currency revaluation effects on sovereign debt Municipal Bonds: The New Safe Haven?  Why munis may replace treasuries for taxable accounts State balance sheets vs. federal debt concerns Tax-advantaged investing strategies Private credit opportunities yielding 8%+ Portfolio Construction in Volatile Times  The "Moneyball approach" to asset allocation Building portfolios with 50%+ probability strategies Private market flexibility and liquidity improvements Incremental gains philosophy Political & Economic Uncertainty Ahead  Midterm election implications National debt sustainability concerns Tax policy changes on the horizon Bipartisan cooperation potential To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

    26 min

  3. FEB 5

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 115 - Inside College Baseball's First Pitch

    Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth. Georgia Tech Hall of Famer and legendary college baseball coach Danny Hall, alongside former Yellow Jacket Chase Murray, discuss college baseball pre-season preparation, training strategies, and what it takes to succeed before the first pitch of the season. Biggest Preparation Challenges (Early Discussion) Pitchers: Managing throwing programs during December-January break Weather dependency affecting practice schedules and development Balancing between overworking and underworking during the off-season The importance of non-conference wins for NCAA tournament resume building Mental Game & Routine Building How fall ball differs from spring competition mindset Developing consistent daily routines before the season starts The psychology of seeing opponents in different uniforms Building confidence through process-driven preparation "Fall Stars" Phenomenon Why some players dominate in fall ball but struggle when games count The importance of coaching trust and patience during slow starts Managing the long season from mid-February through June Peaks and valleys throughout the baseball season Newcomer Integration Transfer portal players joining established programs How freshmen adjust to college baseball's elevated competition The reality check: "Nobody cares who you were before you got here" Building respect and earning playing time Importance of veteran leadership in setting team culture Academic Success Systems Managing class load during fall vs. spring semester Creating homework routines around travel schedules The value of academic advisors and support systems Chase's homework strategy Getting ahead of assignments to avoid late-night cramming before games NIL & Revenue Share Financial Planning Handling 1099 documents from NIL deals Tax implications for college athletes BIP Wealth's role in helping athletes manage money Working with tax advisors (Allie Powell) for proper planning Final Advice for First-Year Players Danny Hall: Learning to handle failure and bounce back quickly Chase Murray: Preparing for off-speed pitches and staying disciplined at the plate The transition from high school success to college competition To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

    22 min

  4. JAN 26

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 114 - Essential Spring Training Prep Checklist

    Getting ready to report to spring training? Former pro ballplayers Jeremy Hermida and Chase Murray share insider advice on preparing for spring training, from physical preparation to financial planning. Whether you're heading to Arizona or Florida, this episode covers everything minor leaguers need to know before packing their bags. Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth. Key Topics Covered Housing (Priority #1) Book early - Prices increase as spring training approaches Secure your housing in January, not February Costs rise significantly the longer you wait Transportation Ship your car vs. rent - Consider the $1,200-$1,500 cost each way Arizona complexes may require different planning than Florida Factor in where you'll be assigned for the season Having your own vehicle vs. finding a teammate with a car Financial & Tax Documents Set up mail forwarding or have someone collect mail at home Tax documents start arriving during spring training Send financial documents to your advisor immediately LLC expenses - Track them throughout the season, not just in December Business Considerations for Players Off-Season Income Baseball camps and clinics Part-time work (Uber, etc.) Track all business expenses if you have an LLC Keep receipts and notes throughout the season Expense Management Use a dedicated credit card for business expenses Write everything down, even if you're unsure it qualifies Let your financial advisor determine what's deductible Review credit card and bank statements during the off-season Mental Preparation Getting in the Zone Arrive at complex early to flip the switch mentally Separate from off-season distractions and noise Access to facilities, coaches, and weight rooms before official report date Nothing replicates actual on-complex preparation Setting Goals Review what you did last season Set personal and financial goals for 2026 Every season is a new chapter of your career Control your preparation, not the outcome "You're only as good as your next at-bat" Action Items Before You Leave ✅ Secure spring training housing ✅ Arrange transportation (ship car or rental) ✅ Set up mail forwarding ✅ Notify financial advisor of your spring training location ✅ Gather any outstanding tax documents ✅ Track off-season business expenses ✅ Ramp up baseball activities ✅ Set personal and professional goals for 2026 Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com,

    14 min

  5. JAN 15

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 113 - Important Ways to Close 2025 and Trump Accounts

    Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth. This podcast hits on items ballplayers should keep in mind as they close 2025 off the field. It also provides key details on the upcoming Trump investment accounts for children born starting in 2025. Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com,

    18 min

  6. 12/01/2025

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 112 - Mark Milam Talks Housing and Mortgage Rates

    Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth. Mark Milam returns to discuss the state of the mortgage and housing market, exploring how recent Fed rate decisions are impacting borrowers, what's on the horizon for 2026-2027, and practical strategies for homebuyers and those considering refinancing. Key Topics Discussed: - Current State of the Market - Fed Rate Cuts & Market Impact - Current Mortgage Rates (as of Nov 21, 2025) - Smart Borrowing Strategies - Innovative Mortgage Products - Market Outlook for 2026-2027 - Hot Topics Debunked Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com,

    18 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 111 - CIO Eric Cramer's Unique QMR

    Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth. In this episode, BIP Wealth Chief Investment Officer Eric Cramer gives an overview and insight into his quarterly market report.  Cramer highlights how revised economic data has shifted how he and others view the markets. Large changes in employment data now provide different signals than before, and how do these changes affect his outlook on the next quarter? Find out on this episode.  Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

    23 min

  8. 10/29/2025

    Ahead In The Count Ep. 110 - Welcome Danny Hall

    Welcome to "Ahead in the Count," presented by BIP Wealth. Our Baseball Division combines their collegiate and professional baseball playing experience with financial acumen to provide expertise in life on and off the field. We aim to give ballplayers and their families a better understanding about their unique lifestyle, the opportunities that come from playing this game, and insight into the complex financial world. This is "Ahead in the Count," hosted by Nolan Alexander, from BIP Wealth. In this episode, get to know the newest member of BIP Wealth! Danny Hall joined as Vice President of Strategic Growth. Hall has long been connected to BIP Wealth, first through Randy Carroll, BIP's Chairman, and has coached a total of 5 current BIP team members over the years who played baseball at Georgia Tech (Michael Sorrow, Kyle Schmidt, Chase Murray, Drew Byers, and John Giesler). Hall and his family have been clients of BIP's Baseball Division since 2007 and had the privilege of having Jim Poole as their Personal Wealth Advisor before he succumbed to ALS in 2023. During his career, Hall racked up 1,452 wins across 38 seasons as a head coach of which 32 seasons were spent at Georgia Tech. He ranked 10th in NCAA Division I history in career wins before deciding to step away from coaching after the 2025 season. While at Georgia Tech, Hall guided the team to 7 ACC regular-season championships, 5 ACC Tournament titles, 24 NCAA Tournament berths and 3 College World Series. Across 32 seasons, Hall saw 146 players selected in the Major League Draft, with 41 going on to play in the major leagues. Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

    16 min
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About

On top of over 25 years of professional baseball experience, the BIP Wealth baseball division has established successful careers as financial advisors, helping newly drafted to recently retired players meet their financial goals. Take away something fresh, or find clarity on what was confusing before in the intersection of life on and off the field on Ahead in the Count, presented by BIP Wealth, with Nolan Alexander.

Information

  • Creator
    BIP Wealth
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    149
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Ahead In The Count