Ahead In The Count

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 hits on three critical financial market challenges shaping 2026: the private credit bubble, AI-driven SaaS disruption, and the massive 'dry powder' capital deployment problem. BIP Ventures COO and General Partner Mark Flickinger explains why the headlines are misleading, how to separate good investments from bad ones, and why disciplined investors positioned in the right segments will thrive in this volatile environment. 1. The Private Credit Bubble: Two Triangles Model Flickinger explains the core problem: 90% of private credit capital is concentrated in the top 50 firms, while deal flow remains limited. This creates a 'race to the bottom' where funds lower interest rates, remove covenants, and increase leverage to deploy capital. 2. Why Not All Private Credit Is Bad Opportunities exist at the "bottom of the pyramid" where less capital concentration creates better risk-adjusted returns. BIP's private credit strategy focuses on senior-secured, covenant-heavy credits in underserved segments. 3. SaaS Pocalypse: The AI Disruption Reality AI is rapidly displacing SaaS businesses with rules-based processes. However, SaaS companies with proprietary data or in complex workflows are seeing AI as a tailwind, not a threat. The market isn't distinguishing between companies that will thrive and those that won't survive AI displacement. 4. Liquidity Crisis: Dry Powder & The Deployment Challenge Since early 2022, hundreds of billions in private equity capital remains undeployed due to macro uncertainty (interest rates, tariffs, AI disruption). This creates a cyclical pattern: years without exits followed by 2-3 years of heavy activity. Companies that create value through downturns are best positioned for future liquidity events. CONTACT For more information: jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, jhermida@bipwealth.com Visit: BIPWealth.com

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 Opening Day episode of Ahead in the Count, former professional baseball players Chase Murray and John Hester discuss strategies for joining a new clubhouse. Whether you're gearing up for Opening Day, promoted from the minors, traded mid-season, or navigating a new organization for the first time, this episode provides insider advice on building relationships, understanding competition, and making a strong first impression. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN • How to assimilate quickly into a new clubhouse environment • Proven strategies for building teammate relationships during spring training • How to handle in-season promotions and trades • Balancing friendship with healthy competition among position groupmates • The role of professionalism and performance in earning respect • Why cultural awareness (like learning Spanish) matters in baseball • How to view trades and mid-season changes as a fresh start • Managing expectations when joining a winning organization Even though MLB rosters appear stable on paper, significant turnover happens annually. With a 26-man roster, many players are new each year. Spring training provides an essential opportunity to cultivate relationships through casual interactions, like breakfast conversations, weight room time, batting cage sessions, with different work groups. Getting to know teammates before camp breaks builds familiarity that carries into the season and helps when players move between organizations. The best approach when entering a new clubhouse is simple: be yourself and play the game the way you know how. Don't overthink new surroundings or try to be someone you're not. Whether promoted to the majors or traded mid-season, teams acquired or called up players for a reason. Your job is to execute your role without overanalyzing the situation. Every game matters, especially in the big leagues. Wins count in April just like September. Each organization has unique pre-game routines, celebratory traditions, and locker room customs. Embrace these differences. Be open to team music, celebration styles, and clubhouse dynamics. Having fun and not taking yourself too seriously (while maintaining professional focus on your craft) helps create social connections that build stronger team chemistry. Here's baseball's uncomfortable truth: your teammates are also your competition. Position groupmates directly compete for playing time. While they become best friends, their performance impacts your opportunities. This dynamic is unique in professional sports, but it's manageable through professionalism. Understanding that performance on the field determines outcomes, and that stats don't lie in baseball, helps maintain a healthy perspective. You can't hide in baseball; the jumbotron displays your batting average. Learning Spanish is valuable for any ballplayer working with Latin American teammates. Making effort to communicate in their language, even imperfectly, builds respect and relationships. Latin players bring infectious positivity, high energy, and strong personalities that can elevate an entire clubhouse. Organizations are increasingly teaching English to international players, but showing cultural awareness goes a long way toward integration. Getting traded mid-season feels jarring—you might go from the West Coast to the East Coast overnight. The key is checking your ego and remembering that performance speaks louder than anything else. A trade signals that your new organization values...

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

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:International developed markets:Emerging markets: The Great International Outperformance AI Revolution: From Hype to Reality 2026 Investment Themes & Strategies Price-earnings ratios: Municipal Bonds: The New Safe Haven? Portfolio Construction in Volatile Times Political & Economic Uncertainty Ahead To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

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) Mental Game & Routine Building "Fall Stars" Phenomenon Newcomer Integration Academic Success Systems NIL & Revenue Share Financial Planning Final Advice for First-Year Players Danny Hall:Chase Murray: To contact the hosts, send an email to jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

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 Transportation Ship your car vs. rent Financial & Tax Documents Set up mail forwardingTax documents start arrivingLLC expenses Business Considerations for Players Off-Season Income Track all business expenses Expense Management Mental Preparation Getting in the Zone Arrive at complex early Setting Goals Every season is a new chapter 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,

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,

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,

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

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 10 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

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: 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

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 Current Market Dynamics The Private Market Shakeout Increased Accessibility to Private Markets Investment Considerations for Ballplayers 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

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 Expansion Possibilities Potential new cities mentioned: Player Perspective on Travel & Schedule Collective Bargaining Implications Salary cap discussions: Tax Implications for Players Financial Considerations 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

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 Three Different Season Scenarios: Mental Approaches to Season's End: Off-Season Preparation: 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

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 Financial Planning for Athletes Advanced Tax Strategies: 529 Plans Deep Dive Estate Planning Updates 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

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 jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

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 jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

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 jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

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 jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com

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. Former first-round MLB Draft pick Jeremy Hermida sits down with 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 finanical change for not just his rookie season, but for the next three years. Don't miss the first part 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 jhester@bipwealth.com, kschmidt@bipwealth.com, cmurray@bipwealth.com, or jhermida@bipwealth.com