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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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],  

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected],

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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, discover what makes the AFL a premier opportunity for baseball's rising stars. Learn how the league brings together the best prospects from all 30 MLB organizations to compete in a unique six-week showcase that runs from early October through November. In this episode, you'll learn: How the Arizona Fall League works and which prospects get selected The logistics of AFL participation: housing, pay, and travel arrangements Why scouts from every MLB organization attend these games The laid-back yet competitive atmosphere that makes AFL special Behind-the-scenes stories from John Hester's AFL experience playing alongside future stars like Max Scherzer How the league has evolved to include more international prospects What the AFL means for player development and trade opportunities Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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.   Episode Description Former MLB pros Chase Murray and Jeremy Hermida share their firsthand experiences of what it's like to navigate the final stretch of a 162-game season. Key Topics Covered: "Angry August" Phenomenon The term that perfectly captures the late-season clubhouse dynamics Strategies to maintain professionalism and team chemistry when tensions run high Three Different Season Scenarios: Teams in playoff contention and the excitement of the hunt Clubs fighting for wild card spots and monitoring scoreboard watching Organizations out of contention  Mental Approaches to Season's End: The challenge of maintaining focus when some players are "raking" and others are struggling How playoff-bound teams shift from individual stats to team-first mentality The psychological boost that comes with a "fresh start" mentality in October Off-Season Preparation: Financial planning and budgeting for the months ahead Mapping out training, living arrangements, and social commitments The importance of evaluating what worked and didn't work during the season Navigating wedding season and family time during the off-season Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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. Kyle Schmidt and Chase Murray discuss consumer sentiment and its impact on the markets during July and August 2025. They provide key info from the latest market stats and trends, and offer insight into why. The podcast also gives listeners a take on historic facts, and provides guidance on looking ahead. Make sure to listen to this podcast to set the table for the next episode with CIO Eric Cramer!. Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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 [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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. We finish our annual MLB Draft series with the former MLB Draft picks John Hester and Chase Murray discussing how to make your draft a success. They lean on their own experiences, along with that of ballplayers that they have helped, to navigate the keys to July's big days. Listen to this podcast before the 2025 MLB Draft to make sure that you are prepared to make this draft a success! Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]

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 concludes a two-part conversation with former first-round MLB Draft pick Jeremy Hermida and his father, Larry, to discuss Jeremy's draft selection and how his life changed going pro. Larry provides a father's account of how he prepared his son for this massive financial change for not just his rookie season, but for the next three years. Don't miss the lasting advice on the final of this two-part conversation on how parents can help their son be equipped to go pro. They discuss what they would do again, differently, and how the approach could change based on being drafted out of high school or college. Please like, subscribe, and rate this podcast episode of Ahead in the Count! To contact the hosts, send an email to [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]