In this episode of the 9innings Podcast, Kevin Thompson, founder and CEO of 9i Capital Group, breaks down how to properly interview a financial advisor before entering a long-term relationship.

Kevin highlights the most common mistake he sees, clients not knowing what questions to ask, and walks through a practical framework covering tax advice, compensation, onboarding, specialties, and overall client fit.

The conversation focuses on transparency, alignment, and how to recognize red flags early, so investors can avoid costly mistakes and make confident, informed decisions.

The goal is simple: empower listeners to choose the right advisor and build a successful advisor-client relationship. Kevin wraps by inviting listener questions and sharing additional resources for deeper learning on the topic.

The Problem with Interviewing Advisors (00:00:57)

Why Proper Interviewing Matters (00:02:21)

Who Does the Advisor Work For? (00:05:35)

Understanding the Onboarding Process (00:06:55)

Advisor Specialties, Credentials, and Ideal Client Profile (00:08:38)

What Good Answers and Red Flags Look Like (00:09:52)

Empowerment and Closing Remarks (00:11:10)

NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap

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Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4

Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com

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Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com

Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure

Welcome to the 9Innings Podcast where we Educate, Empower and Engage.

ON THIS WEEKS PODCAST: Kevin describes why he decided to open his own RIA, and what lead to his move. He also talks about what he discovered after the move was made, and talk some "Fact vs Fiction". Companies will often make you feel as if you cannot live without them, Kevin takes you on his journey and why that "may" not be true. Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com

In this episode of "The 9innings Podcast," host Kevin Thompson and guest Sarah Grillo discuss the ongoing debate over fee structures in financial advising, focusing on flat fee versus assets under management (AUM) models. They explore the importance of transparency, fairness, and client communication, highlighting how different models impact advisor incentives and client relationships. Sarah shares insights from her Transparency Movement, while both agree that building trust and adapting to client needs are key. The episode emphasizes that multiple fee models can coexist, and success depends on clear communication, transparency, and a client-centered approach.

Fee Model Polarization Explained (00:04:56)

Fairness and Service Alignment in Fee Models (00:07:42)

Competitive Advantage Through Transparency (00:12:57)

Multiple Business Models in Practice (00:16:37)

Defining Best Interest and Flat Fee Variations (00:19:26)

Addressing Conflicts of Interest (00:21:12)

Sustainability and Capitalism in Fee Models (00:26:09)

Entrepreneurship and Social Media Echo Chambers (00:31:18)

Final Thoughts: Market Decides & Relationship Building (00:33:36)

NEWSLETTER (WHAT NOW): https://substack.com/@9icapital?r=2eig6s&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page

Follow Us: youtube: / @9icap

Linkedin: / kevin-thompson-ricp%c2%ae-cfp%c2%ae-74964428

facebook: / mlb2cfp

Buy MLB2CFP Here: https://www.amazon.com/MLB-CFP%C2%AE-90-Feet-Counting-ebook/dp/B0BLJPYNS4

Website: http://www.9icapitalgroup.com

Hit the subscribe button to get new content notifications.

Corrections: Editing by http://SwoleNerdProductions.com

Disclosure: https://sites.google.com/view/9idisclosure/disclosure