Ahead In The Count

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.

Ahead In The Count Ep. 116 - CIO Eric Cramer's 2026 Annual Market Report: Investment Strategies for a Changing Global Economy 02/16/2026

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 , , or /episode/index/show/bipwealth/id/40124315

Ahead In The Count Ep. 115 - Inside College Baseball's First Pitch 02/05/2026

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 , , or /episode/index/show/bipwealth/id/39998385

Ahead In The Count Ep. 114 - Essential Spring Training Prep Checklist 01/26/2026

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 , , /episode/index/show/bipwealth/id/39877570

Ahead In The Count Ep. 113 - Important Ways to Close 2025 and Trump Accounts 01/15/2026

Ahead In The Count Ep. 112 - Mark Milam Talks Housing and Mortgage Rates 12/01/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 111 - CIO Eric Cramer's Unique QMR 11/17/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 110 - Welcome Danny Hall 10/29/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 109 - Arizona Fall League: Inside Baseball's Prospect Showcase 10/14/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 108 - Private Investment News with Mark Flickinger 09/30/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 108 - Private Investment News with Mark Flickinger 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, Mark Flickinger returns to discuss why the fall of 2025 presents a unique opportunity for investing in private markets. The conversation covers current market dynamics, the importance of manager selection, and new accessibility options for private market investments. Key Topics Discussed Why Now Is an Attractive Time for Private Markets Valuation opportunities Buy low strategy Market fundamentals Current Market Dynamics Capital constraints Opportunity zone Consolidation potential The Private Market Shakeout Market correction: Approximately 50% fewer venture funds active compared to recent peak years Discipline matters Long-term perspective: Removing the COVID-era bubble reveals a consistent growth trajectory from 2017-forward Increased Accessibility to Private Markets Evergreen funds and BDCs 401(k) developments IRA options: Self-directed IRAs already enabling private market participation with tax advantages Investment Considerations for Ballplayers Manager selection is critical: Not all private equity returns are equal - performance varies significantly by manager Portfolio fit: Best investment available isn't always the right one for individual circumstances Professional guidance: Importance of working with experienced managers who evaluate deals daily Tax efficiency: Private credit investments work well in tax-advantaged accounts Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to , , or /episode/index/show/bipwealth/id/38402100

Ahead In The Count Ep. 107 - Depths of MLB Realignment 09/17/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 107 - Depths of MLB Realignment 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 episode features a comprehensive discussion about Major League Baseball's potential realignment and expansion plans, featuring insights from former professional players Kyle Schmidt and Jeremy Hermida. Key Topics Discussed MLB Realignment Plans Commissioner Rob Manfred has been discussing realignment for approximately a decade Plans potentially tied to the upcoming Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) expiration in December 2026 Balancing tradition and history with modernization needs Recent rule changes (pitch clock, bigger bases) have been well-received, suggesting fans can adapt to changes Expansion Possibilities Potential new cities mentioned: Nashville (most frequently discussed) Salt Lake City Raleigh Montreal (return) Two additional teams would create 50 new roster spots New teams would require complete farm system development Player Perspective on Travel & Schedule Current 162-game schedule creates significant wear and tear Cross-country flights after late games (finishing at 10:30-11:00 PM) followed by 2:00 AM departures Potential schedule reduction to 156 games being considered Geographic realignment could reduce travel burdens Collective Bargaining Implications Realignment may be a negotiating tool for owners ahead of 2026 CBA talks Salary cap discussions: Players' opinions Would potentially hurt middle-tier players most Baseball's historically strong players union Revenue sharing and competitive balance Tax Implications for Players Players taxed based on where games are played (prorated basis) Realignment could significantly impact players' take-home pay Financial Considerations Franchise valuations at all-time highs Revenue sharing already addresses some competitive imbalance Tax implications could influence free agent decisions Middle-tier players most vulnerable under potential salary cap Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to , , or /episode/index/show/bipwealth/id/38257130

Ahead In The Count Ep. 106 - Overcoming Angry August 09/05/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 105 - CIO Eric Cramer's QMR 08/19/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 105 - CIO Eric Cramer's 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. Key Topics Covered with Chief Investment Officer Eric Cramer: Economic Update & Market Analysis Recent employment data revisions and their economic implications Federal Reserve interest rate policy and anticipated cuts in September Impact of tariff policies on inflation and market performance Strong second-quarter market performance across global markets Financial Planning for Athletes Unique challenges facing young baseball players with significant early-career earnings Why traditional financial planning timelines are accelerated for professional athletes The importance of maintaining long-term investment strategies despite market volatility Risk tolerance assessment for younger, high-income earners Advanced Tax Strategies: 529 Plans Deep Dive Expanded uses beyond college tuition (K-12, vocational training, professional credentials) Strategic funding techniques, including the 5-year gifting rule Multi-generational wealth transfer strategies using 529 plans Converting 529 assets to Roth IRAs for additional flexibility Real-world examples of tax-free compounding over multiple decades Estate Planning Updates New higher estate tax exemption limits Long-term wealth preservation strategies for high earners Multi-generational investment planning considerations Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to , , or /episode/index/show/bipwealth/id/37876255

Ahead In The Count Ep. 104 - Consumer Sentiment in Summer 2025 08/07/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 103 - Investing in Sports Teams 07/22/2025

Ahead In The Count Ep. 103 - Investing in Sports Teams 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. John Hester and Chase Murray dive into a popular topic amongst clients and pro ballplayers - investing in professional sports teams! They explore the shift in sports ownership, driven by high-profile transactions like the Los Angeles Lakers' $10 billion valuation, evolving regulations, and relaxed ownership restrictions that now allow private equity and individual investors to acquire stakes in teams across baseball, basketball, football, and even eSports. The conversation highlights the appeal of sports franchises as valuable investments due to diverse revenue streams like TV deals, ticket sales, and merchandise. They discuss how ownership groups, rather than single owners, are becoming the norm, and how celebrities like Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, and Ryan Reynolds are entering the sports investment space. The Atlanta Braves stand out as a publicly traded team, offering accessible investment opportunities, though most opportunities remain geared toward high-net-worth individuals. The episode also touches on potential conflicts of interest, particularly for active MLB players, and the importance of due diligence when considering sports investments. The hosts note the emerging trend of private equity in college athletics and the need for investors to carefully evaluate these opportunities. Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to , , or /episode/index/show/bipwealth/id/37505320