Rule Breaker Investing - Archive

Can you quickly decide which AI companies deserve your attention—and which to skip? What do you believe that most people don’t? And is there a simple trick, learnable in one afternoon, that can delight kids (and maybe yourself) for a lifetime? This week, David returns with Volume 11 of one of our OG episodic series: Mental Tips, Tricks & Lifehacks. He shares seven small ideas that punch above their weight: from a clever $10 household fix, to a mindset shift borrowed from Kevin Kelly, to dialing down big ambitions into “little

Some truths are too good to say only once. This week, David re-blasts five timelessly powerful ideas from the past—about identity, investing, serenity, frameworks, and questioning—and brings them together in a fresh 2026 mix. One quietly powerful idea runs underneath: What you do, repeatedly, becomes who you are.Along the way: A single line that might rewire how you think about your own habits (and your portfolio) A Silicon Valley inversion that flips investing on its head Shakespeare, serenely out-investing most of Wall Street Why Warren Buffett shouldn’t have bought Amazon—and why

March Madness may be over, but the Mailbag is just beginning—and as always, you’re the star of the show. This month we hear from listeners who tracked the data on our Market Cap Game Show strategies (does “always disagree”… really work?), revisit a thoughtful challenge from Professor Jason Corso on whether Rule Breaker Investing is built on habits, recipes, or something closer to an algorithm, pick up a clever Google News hack that lets you see the world through another country’s headlines, and yes… return to Pet Peeves territory with a

The bracket is complete. The stakes are highest. And now… it’s time to crown a champion.This week on Rule Breaker Investing, defending champion Emily Flippen faces off against Cinderella challenger Loren Horst in the March Market Cap Madness World Championship. As always, you’re not just watching—you’re playing along. Ten companies. Ten chances to test your market cap intuition. Range it… and decide: in or out?From elevators to hotel loyalty programs to the strange ways we all think about “blood,” this one takes a few delightfully unexpected turns along the way. Throwdowns

The Madness continues! This week on Rule Breaker Investing, the second semifinal of March Market Cap Madness tips off as defending world champion Emily Flippen faces long-time Motley Fool advisor Bill Barker for a place in the championship round. It is a rematch of the epic Final Four game they played this very week one year ago. As always, the real game is for you: ten companies, ten market-cap ranges, and one simple question each round: Inside or outside? Play along and keep score as you listen—and see if your intuition

March Market Cap Madness tips off its Final Four this week on Rule Breaker Investing, and you’re not just watching—you’re playing. Past world champion Andy Cross (6–1 lifetime) squares off against Cinderella contender Loren Horst (1–0) in our first semifinal matchup, with a spot in the World Championship at stake. Grab a pencil, set your ranges, and see whether your market-cap intuition can outscore Andy, Loren… or both. The Madness is on, and the bracket is tightening. Companies mentioned: ACN, AMD, BA, CSU, GLOB, IDXX, INTU, SERV, TCEHY, WIX Sign up

This week’s Mailbag picks up where Pet Peeves left off—and then some. Listeners write in with their own linguistic grievances, from “10 straight unanswered points” to the curious inflation of words like “countless,” to the conversational reflex of “Right?” that may or may not actually validate anything. Along the way, we touch on Evernote in an AI world, foreign exchange risk from a Fool down under, and the eternal market phenomenon of buying the day before the drop. It’s playful, pointed, and a reminder that words shape how we think… and

It’s been 27 months since this series’s last installment, which means David has had time to quietly bottle up a fresh batch of entirely new irritations—all original, no repeats. This year’s edition takes aim at the slippery phrase “Buy Now, Pay Later,” the suspicious preface “If I’m being honest…,” and the curious cultural surrender embedded in “In my day…“.Along the way, there’s a certain Halloween-sized marketing sham, a conversational tic that may deserve early retirement, and a high-decibel train experience you may never un-hear again.Part humor, part language audit, part cultural

Ten years ago this week, in the teeth of a downturn, David picked five stocks under the banner “5 Stocks to Feed the Bear.” This week, he and longtime Fool Rick Munarriz revisit that full basket—not after a month, a quarter, or a year, but after a much better, truer timeframe for the Rule Breaker Investor: 10 years. To the very day.Which stocks did David get really right? Which ones really wrong? And why? As always, in this third installment of our new episodic series, it’s not about cherry-picking highlights—it’s about

Kevin Kelly—founding editor of Wired magazine and a lifelong observer of technology in motion—returns to Rule Breaker Investing for a conversation about how the future actually shows up. We don’t trade in predictions here. Instead, Kevin shares ways of noticing long arcs, understanding why certain platforms and ideas compound, and staying optimistic without getting swept up in hype. From AI working alongside other AIs to the power of patience and perspective, this episode is an invitation to slow down just enough to see what really matters as change unfolds. Sign up

This week’s Rule Breaker Investing Mailbag brings together beautiful questions and stories to start the new year. We wrestle with a values-alignment dilemma around owning Robinhood, explore what it looks like to turn investing into a real, score-kept game for kids (including outperforming Dad), consider a mischievous strategy for the Market Cap Game Show, and close with an inspiring note from a retired basketball coach whose patient, optimistic approach built lasting financial freedom. Along the way, we’re reminded that investing isn’t just about returns—it’s about judgment, temperament, family, and choosing to

Risk gets talked about a lot in investing—and often defined poorly. This week on Rule Breaker Investing, David is joined by Motley Fool analysts Alicia Alfiere and Yasser El-Shimy to walk through his full 25-point risk rating system, a framework he’s used for more than a decade to replace vague labels like “medium risk” with something concrete and measurable. Using Etsy and Duolingo as live 2026 case studies, the trio scores each company question by question—covering the business, financials, competition, leadership, and the investor’s own willingness to dig deeper. Along the

This week on Rule Breaker Investing, David is joined by Raj Sisodia and Nilima Bhat, co-authors of Healing Leaders, for a conversation about leadership burnout, meaning, and why wholeness may be a strategic advantage. Rather than treating healing as a “soft” idea, Raj and Nilima walk through the book’s seven steps and explore how inner state shapes judgment, patience, courage, and long-term thinking—in business, investing, and life. Along the way, they connect the “Wise Fool” archetype and the idea of Shakti to conscious capitalism, rule-breaking optimism, and the kind of leadership

As we open 2026, David looks backward to get clearer about what really matters going forward. In the eighth installment of Essays From Yesterday, he revisits four Rule Breaker essays written between 2006 and 2014—spanning market sell-offs, forgotten drawdowns, early buyouts, language that shapes behavior, and the enduring power of mindset. Along the way, we’re reminded that sharp declines happen more often than we remember, that short-term scorecards mislead, and that a handful of great winners can overwhelm many mistakes. This lesson-filled episode makes the case for capital “H” History as

It’s the final Rule Breaker Investing podcast of 2025, and the year ends as it always does—with your Mailbag. David shares his annual year-forward market call, then works through listener notes that capture the heart of the Foolish journey. We hear from a father investing alongside his seven-year-old son, an investor who audited his own selling history and discovered just how early he’d stepped off some great rides, and Fools thinking carefully about contribution timing, position sizing, and excellence that keeps winning. Along the way, David revisits core ideas like letting

It’s time once again for the Market Cap Game Show Holiday Edition, where intuition meets valuation and everyday life meets market caps. Bill Barker and Matt Argersinger take the stage, vying for the final spot in our 2026 March Market Cap Madness World Championships, as they test their mettle—and yours—across ten public companies. From Bubble Wrap and sidewalk robots to semiconductors, ski resorts, biotech pipelines, and online commerce platforms, the matchups span the familiar and the delightfully unexpected, with plenty of raucous banter along the way. Play along at home, challenge

t’s the 50th week of the year, which means it’s time once again for the Besties—a celebration of the episodes that educated, amused, and enriched us most in 2025. David highlights ten standout episodes from this year, revisiting the ideas, stories, and lessons that lingered long after the microphones were off. And all of the voices behind those moments return for brief cameos, reflecting on the year that was and looking ahead to what comes next. From Authors in August and a Market Cap Game Show world championship, to character, community,

This week, David returns to one of his favorite flexible formats: Old, New, Borrowed, Blue. In this tenth volume, he brings back a few personal lifehacks, peeves, and perks from past episodes; introduces a new financial holiday—“National Share Day”—imagining a country where every American becomes an owner; borrows a passage from his free downloadable book chapter to explore how AI may (or may not) fit into Rule Breaker investing; and closes with a blue reflection on the rise and fall of Bed Bath & Beyond—and asks, was this the very first

It’s that time of year again—our annual tabletop gift guide returns with Games, Games, Games, Vol. 7. From family-friendly favorites to rich, strategic adventures, David shares five “in case you missed it” classics and then moves through a curated list of 12 games, arranged from lightest to heaviest. Expect quick, joyful picks like Wavelength and Dorfromantik, followed by deeper journeys into titles such as Dune Imperium: Uprising and SETI. There’s something here for every level of gamer, gift-giver, and holiday gathering.Whether you’re choosing a reliable crowd-pleaser or hunting for a challenge

As November comes to a close and Thanksgiving arrives, our Mailbag is brimming! From Gratitude Challenge triumphs to a brand-new five-stock sampler, from Winter Soldier fortitude to navigating concentrated positions, inheritance questions, regrets, and remarkable investing wins—this month’s notes run deep and wide. David is joined by Andy Cross and Robert Brokamp to explore strategies for retirement withdrawals, building children’s portfolios, and managing dominant holdings, while also celebrating generosity, unity, and candle-lighting stories from across the Fool community. It’s a warm, thoughtful Mailbag to close the month—and a reminder of why

David is joined by George Khalaf, executive director of the Fool Community Foundation, for a special Weekend Extra featuring Gooding — musician, storyteller, and founder of Funding the Future. Together they explore Gooding’s mission to reach young people across America with dynamic, music-driven performances that make financial literacy not just understandable, but unforgettable. From inspiring students to pursue their dreams to equipping them with practical tools for money and investing, this conversation highlights the power of creativity, purpose, and education to change lives. Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast News

As the final months of 2025 ebb away, it is time once again to pause, reflect, and openly acknowledge the gratitude we feel. From great companies that make great stocks possible, to the unifiers who build bridges instead of walls, to the quiet power of candles and the people who share their flame — this episode celebrates them all. David even offers five simple ways you can build a bridge in your own life this week. This week’s podcast is an expression of thankfulness for what inspires us, what drives us,

We’re back with the second episode of a new series—10 Years Later—where we blast through time to peek in on a 5-Stock Sampler from 10 years in the past, then zoom back to the present to see what really happened. On the marquee today are 5 Lesser Known Rule Breakers (from 11/11/2015) that feature a company providing commercial kitchen solutions, a few big name changes, a couple of even bigger acquisitions, and a wood alternative decking company. Longtime contributing writer at the Fool, Anders Bylund, joins David on this trip through

In this 21st installment of one of our longest-running series, David shares five insightful quotes—really more like passages this time—particularly aimed at business and entrepreneurs. Whether it’s making your vision manifest, providing genuine help for free, or choosing the better story when faced with a decision, this episode offers food for thought on visualizing your goals, deepening your customer relationships, and leading a more interesting life. Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast News here:⁠⁠⁠www.fool.com/breakfastnews⁠⁠⁠ Order David’s Rule Breaker Investing book here:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1804091219/⁠⁠⁠ Host: David Gardner Producer: Bart Shannon Learn more

From Diwali’s lights in India to a “spiffy-drop” on Netflix, this Mailbag travels widely and thinks deeply. A listener celebrates the Rule Breaker habit of lighting candles, not fanning flames, while others ask how to “Add Up, Don’t Double Down” in practice, what makes a business cyclical, and how to think about price momentum. Plus, a 67-year-old Fool goes all-in, a Boilermaker misses Investor Island, and a Brit reminds us that some “periods of time” are best left to translation. Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast News here: www.fool.com/breakfastnews Order

By the pricking of my thumbs, something SPOOKY this way comes. That icy chill in the air tells us that it’s that season again. It’s that time of year when Robert Brokamp brings his ghoulishly chilling tales of frightful scams, legal guillotines, and savings depleting poltergeists. But, along with every tale of fright, comes a lesson and a warning, to help you beware these dark and malevolent pitfalls. Let the tales begin! (5:35) - The Chimera of Omaha(12:15) - The Vanguard Vanishing(16:55) - Helter Shelter(23:35) - Invasion of the Crypto Snatchers!(31:00)

Every stock tells a story. This week we gather around the campfire for five fresh tales—from silicon driving the AI era to supply-chain software that keeps retail humming, from a Latin American marketplace that became a fintech/logistics flywheel to a spicy franchiser scaling flavor by the bucket… and a legendary spiffy-pop that still makes us smile. Expect lessons in patience, optionality, moats—and why a single day can sometimes pay back an entire cost basis. Companies Discussed: AMD, AQNT, MANH, MELI, WING, Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast News here:⁠⁠www.fool.com/breakfastnews⁠⁠ Order

Today is that day—once every two years—when this podcast goes back to basics and we restate and recommit to the eternal verities David sees in business, in investing, and in Rule Breaker Investing. So put down those oars, join us aboard our sailboat, and let the winds guide you back toward these valuable core beliefs. Whether you’re well steeped in Foolishness or at the beginning stages of your investing journey, these are nine foundational truths not to be forgotten. Stocks Mentioned: AMZN, GOOG, HUBS, ISRG, MELI, MRNA, NFLX, PFE, SBUX Sign

David slips on his Fred Roger’s cardigan to revisit five valuable lessons, intertwined with the theme of “how to win in life.” Pulled from classic episodes spanning the last decade of weekly podcasts, David spotlights lessons that light candles—at a time when too many are busy fanning flames. The five growth-minded blasts from the past: Roy Spence on being a “For” Person “Do you have a ________ friend?” Accept responsibility; blame no one Judge yourself by your results, and others by their intentions Sam Horn’s “proactive grace” An oh-so-timely Blast from

It’s a Mailbag of gratitude as the reviews are rolling in for David’s new book. A listener invests $100 for each of his daughters’ birthdays, positioning them for success in their financial futures, as another listener follows David’s advice: “Add up, don’t double down.” David also shares some Strat-o-matic memories and reminds us that the math is always against you when it comes to sports betting. Plus, listener and host swap stories on selling Netflix (years ago) to build and buy their homes… Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast News

Welcome back to our quarterly Market Cap Game Show! Two past champions—Andy Cross and Yasser El-Shimy—take the stage to test their market-cap mettle (and yours) across ten public companies, vying for a spot in the 2026 March Market Cap Madness World Championships. From tech titans and international hotel brands to down home Texas fare and online car shopping, the matchups run from familiar to delightfully unexpected—plus plenty of banter. Can you outscore Andy, Yasser, or both? Play along, challenge your market cap intuition, and discover the surprising values of companies you

A 5-minute listen from Chapter 3 of the Rule Breaker Investing audiobook, out September 16. In “After Yesterday,” David tells the CNBC story of a co-host stunned that he still liked cloud stocks—after yesterday—and why Rule Breaker investors don’t let yesterday’s tape write tomorrow’s script. Enjoy the excerpt, then share it with a friend who could use a smarter, happier, richer mindset. Pre-order Rule Breaker Investing (hardcover, e-book, audiobook) wherever you buy books. Host: David Gardner Producer: Bart Shannon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All year long we’ve opened each episode with a “Page Breaker Preview” sneak peek from David’s forthcoming book. Today, we’ve stitched those 35 snippets into a single, chronological highlight reel—a mini-audiobook that traces the arc of Rule Breaker Investing: from first principles and habits, through stock-picking traits and portfolio rules, to the capstone ideas that tie it all together. With light context, lots of personality, and a lively tempo, this week’s one-of-a-kind episode plays like a curated mixtape of the book’s big ideas. It’s out next week! Pre-order Rule Breaker Investing:

We’re launching a new series—10 Years Later—where we open a time capsule, revisit a 5-Stock Sampler on its 10th birthday, and see what really happened. First up is our original (9/2/2015) sampler, 5 Stocks for the Next 5 Years: a motley mix that spanned Latin American e-commerce, rural convenience, blockbuster gaming, frontline cybersecurity, and kitchen-tech roll-ups. Longtime Fool Rick Munarriz joins as David’s sidekick to share the what, why, and when of these stocks’ march through the decade. How did each of these stocks do? How about the sampler’s overall outperformance?

For summer’s final Mailbag, a listener shares how he dropped sports betting and picked up investing, while another wants to know how to allocate portfolios as a Rule Breaker. David brings back Motley Fool Chief Investment Officer, Andy Cross, to discuss tools for tracking your portfolio against the S&P 500, thinking briefly about dividend allocation, then answering the question, “If you were investing your first $1,000 today, what would your approach be?” Those gems, along with Author in August Sam Horn—like a river—running through it! Sign up for The Motley Fool’s

To close out the 2025 Authors in August series, we flip the script—and the mic. Chris Hill, longtime Fool and creator of Motley Fool Money (and host of Money Unplugged) returns as guest host to grill David about his forthcoming book, “Rule Breaker Investing.” David reveals his first-ever Rule Breaker stock (before he’d even coined the phrase), the inspiration for his discipline… he names names on current dark clouds investors may be able to see through, and brings Rule Breaker thinking across diverse topics, from portfolio construction to sports betting. Finally,

Continuing our eighth annual Authors in August series, David welcomes Sam Horn, renowned communications strategist and founder and CEO of the Intrigue Agency, based in Austin, Texas. Sam gamely plays a little book roulette. She starts by detailing how to nail a sixty-second pitch, then walks us through how to handle rude people, blamers, shamers, complainers, non-stop talkers, people who refuse to cooperate, and those who ignore rules or boundaries. They also reveal the word that David is trying his best to avoid saying, and finish with a raucous round of

In this inaugural episode of our eighth annual Authors in August series, David welcomes back bestselling author, Harvard professor, and Atlantic columnist Arthur Brooks. Arthur brings along counterintuitive ideas about happiness as a habit, the difference between joy and happiness, public vs. anonymous philanthropy, and how the pursuit of money can sometimes… reduce freedom?! David and Arthur also dive into what makes feedback actually helpful, and finish with a spirited round of Buy, Sell, or Hold: Happiness Edition. Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast Newshere: www.fool.com/breakfastnews Pre-order David’s upcoming Rule

Grab the popcorn—this Mailbag goes well beyond beach talk. A listener uses Rule Breaker tactics, keeps adding as the stock climbs, and lands their first spiffy-pop. David retells the term’s origin and brings back analyst Yasser El-Shimy, whose original pick sparks a rocket-themed chat. Another listener feeds Keats’s “On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer” to AI for a Rule-Breaker remix full of wild surmise. Those nuggets—plus the new Authors in August lineup—power this week’s breezy, idea-packed summer episode. Companies mentioned: RKLB, SBUX Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast Newshere: www.fool.com/breakfastnews

Fresh off of his mixed doubles title at Wimbledon, Sem Verbeek sits back down with David (three years later) to share his journey from professional tennis player, facing a career crossroads, to becoming a Wimbledon champion. He compares the similarities in mindset between tennis and financial strategies, and even turns the tables by becoming the interviewer, asking David some thought-provokingquestions of his own. Sem Verbeek, a man of many talents, on and off the court. Host: David Gardner Guest: Sem Verbeek Producer: Bart Shannon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

As summer in the Northern Hemisphere kicks into second gear, David unveils the second volume in this episodic series. He explores the four types of capital, speaks to the importance of embracing good ol’ “R”eality, brings back an honest-to-goodness pet peeve, and unravels a spool of cool words that rhyme with “Fool.”Grab your lemonade, find a comfy spot in the shade, and join us under the summer sun! Companies Discussed: AMZN, NVDA Host: David Gardner Producer: Bart Shannon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re approaching the 10-year anniversary of the dawn of our 30 five-stock samplers, picked from 2015 to 2021. In this special episode, David reflects on the fully updated results, sharing 10 fresh lessons from both the wins and the whiffs. How’d we do? Discover the highs and lows, the reversals in just a year’s time… and the enduring principles of Rule Breaker Investing. Companies Discussed: AXON, IRBT, ISRG, LYV, MELI, NVDA, PAC, PEGA, PI, RMD, W, Z Host: David Gardner Producer: Bart Shannon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Independence Week in the United States is the perfect time to explore financial freedom. This week’s podcast highlights nine key points leading to financial independence, featuring insights from Greek Philosophers, Rule Breaker listeners, and David himself. Rediscover Ask For a Raise Day and living below your means. Learn from listener stories about the importance of resilience, avoiding debt, multiplicands or multiplican'ts, and when your kids begin to see the financial light. Real stories and inspiration helping you achieve financial freedom, American-style. Host: David Gardner Producer: Bart Shannon Learn more about your

June brings us another motley mailbag, where your notes nudged David to share, among other things: *his top quantitative traits for a great stock *summary thoughts a few years later on Michael Hebb’s Let’s Talk About Death (over Dinner) *consideration of a Peacock streaming road trip show with Fools that never happened *a trip back in our time machine to see what was Amazon’s market cap in 1999! Companies mentioned: AMZN, BRK.A, BRK.B, WMT Sign up for The Motley Fool’s Breakfast News here www.fool.com/breakfastnews Pre-order David’s upcoming Rule Breaker Investing book

The penultimate Wednesday of every quarter… it’s time again for the Market Cap Game Show! This time around, longtime Fool Jason Moser and podcast debutant Loren Horst step into the ring to guess (and second-guess) the value of some amazing (some of them amazingly boring) stocks. As always, you’re invited to play along at home: Can you beat our talented Foolish guest stars? Companies Discussed: SFIX, ISRG, U, TXNM, ODFL, JPM, FIX, TDG, TREX, DIS Host: David Gardner Guests: Jason Moser, Loren Horst Producer: Bart Shannon Engineer: Dan Boyd Learn more

Here's an experiment: Take a young artist with no interest in investing, no financial savvy, and a ton of debt, and then drop him into the deep end of Foolishness. Wait 25 years, and what do you get? A Fool for life! This week, producer Rick Engdahl comes to the other side of the glass to reflect on what he's learned from 10 years of RBI and a career at The Motley Fool. Host: David Gardner Guest: Rick Engdahl Producer: Bart Shannon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week our old friend Shirzad Chamine is back to remind us who we are and who we've always been. Embrace your superpowers and defeat your saboteurs, because you have everything you need to be happy right now! Host: David Gardner Guest: Shirzad Chamine Producers: Rick Engdahl, Bart Shannon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're taking another lap around the sun, buying to hold for decades, or literally running for miles on end, life is more than a marathon. Where you come from matters. Where you're going matters more. How you'll get there? Well, as your mailbag contributions showcase, that's the fun part! Sign up for The Motley Fool's Breakfast News here www.fool.com/breakfastnews Pre-order David's upcoming Rule Breaker Investing book here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1804091219/ Host: David Gardner Guest: Randi Zuckerberg Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI, marketing, brand, creativity... just a few of the subjects that Seth Godin can talk about with eloquence and insight. This week the "Purple Cow" author is here with David and guest-host Andy Cross to shed light on what earns attention, transaction, and loyalty. Hosts: David Gardner, Andy Cross Guest: Seth Godin Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The best gifts are the ones that keep on giving, and that's what this episode is all about! Today's show highlights the things you've told us that you learned from David, called out and amplified to help us all navigate another challenging year. Now that's an awesome birthday present. Thanks! Companies mentioned: AAPL, ACHR, AMZN, CMG, DIS, MELI, MSFT, NFLX, NVDA, ODFL, SHOP, TSLA Host: David Gardner Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If knowledge is power, today's show will give you superpowers! Our all-Fool cast is here to help you understand some common and not-so-common investing terms, so that you can leap tall buildings, swing from a web, and more importantly, be better investors! Are we heroes? Are we zeros? Keep score and let us know. Host: David Gardner Guests: Nick Sciple, Yasser El-Shimy, David Meier Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tariffs, corruption, political posturing... it's no wonder that the market is crashing! But wait, is it? Back up that graph a bit and the market is still near all-time highs. In today's mailbag we strive to find happiness, maintain rational optimism, and see through the dark clouds plaguing the headlines. Plus, some tips on diversifying your portfolio, voting with your wallet, and challenging the umpire. Companies mentioned: DUOL, GE, ISRG, MELI, NFLX, PLTR, RKLB, TOST Host: David Gardner Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In remembrance of the life of George Foreman, we've gone back to the Motley Fool Radio Show vault to bring you this interview with the former heavyweight champion. From poverty to fame, sport to business, cattle to annuities, Foreman was fully invested in a life well-lived. A world-beater, a rule breaker, and by our measure, a true Fool. Host: David Gardner Guest: Mac Greer Guests from the Vault: Tom Gardner, George Foreman Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We don't break the rules to cheat; we break them to improve. When conventional wisdom grows stale and unhelpful, it's the contrarians who lead the way to make investing, business, and life better. And the same is true in sports. Punting? Bunting? It's time we take a look, with the help of sports journalist, Kimball Crossley, at some sports rules that need breaking. Host: David Gardner Guest: Kimball Crossley Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jacks, because we're back at the ol' ball game with some softball, hardball, curveball, screwball, and knuckleball questions from ChatGPT. David is at the plate, taking swings at these pitches and batting you home to a smarter, happier, and richer future. Companies mentioned: AMZN, ISRG, NFLX, NVDA Host: David Gardner Guest: ChatGPT Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today David hosts the founder and CEO of Fair Trade USA, Paul Rice, who explains how trade can be more effective than aid in improving the world's economic issues. As consumers become more aware and more discerning about what they buy, companies that embrace conscious capitalism will enjoy an ever-growing competitive edge over those which simply look to grow profits and any cost. Companies mentioned: AMZN, SBUX, WMT Host: David Gardner Guest: Paul Rice Producers: Heather Horton, Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's time once again to dust off David's old writings and pull some lessons forward into the light of today. We discuss re-recs and buying stocks that you already own, annual predictions, risk ratings, and keeping a record of your investment decisions. We look back to be smarter about looking forward! (5:52) Introduction to May 2003 Issue (16:00) New Year's Resolution (24:47) Risk Ratings For New Members (32:35) What is in Front of One's Nose Companies Discussed: AMZN, BIDU, FSLR, GILD, NVDA Host: David Gardner Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about

March 2025 Mailbag: Chalkboard Wisdom and Our Favorite Words March Madness isn’t just for basketball—it’s taken over Rule Breaker Investing too! In this month’s mailbag, David Gardner fields your questions and reflections with trademark Foolishness. Should you use forced rankings to evaluate your portfolio? Can AI help guide investment decisions? Is Elon good or evil? Why does following the simplest of instructions matter so profoundly? And what’s the one company name David’s been hilariously mispronouncing? Answers, insights, and even a lesson or two about telematics await—so jump in, it’s Mailbag Madness!

It all comes down to this... the final event of March Market Cap Madness! Defending Champion Andy Cross has held off all contenders and pretenders, but young phenom and game show survivor Emily Flippen is not one to back down from a challenge. Who will win the crown for 2025? We're betting on you to come out smarter, happier, and richer as we all play and learn together! Companies discussed: BRZE, WIX, KMI, PTON, AMAT, HHH, ARE, RHP, NDAQ, VKTX Host: David Gardner Guests: Andy Cross, Emily Flippen Producer: Rick Engdahl

We hope you've filled out your bracket because we're back with the second match of the March Market Cap Madness Final Four. Today it's the birthday boy, Bill Barker up against the survivor, Emily Flippen! Who will make it to next week's final? You will, Fool! Companies discussed: OKTA, UBER, WAL, AMGN, FUN, RKLB, GOOG, CARG, DIS, META, NOW Host: David Gardner Guests: Bill Barker, Emily Flippen Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Olympics. The World Cup. The Super Bowl. These competitions bring the world together to back their favorite teams as they compete for the ultimate title. But March Market Cap Madness has an even bigger draw, because you not only get to root for your favorite; you get to compete! Strap in and get your pencils ready, it's go time! Companies discussed: DAVA, DUOL, GXO, UA, JNJ, SMMT, AX, ROKU, DDOG, IOT, FICO Host: David Gardner Guests: Andy Cross, Matt Argersinger Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

Peter Lynch taught us to buy what we know. Can successful investing be that simple? And if we know and love the companies we own, how should we go about selling them? How are we supposed to remember why we bought these stocks in the first place? All this and more in month's mailbag! Companies Mentioned: TTD, AXON, COST, AAPL Host: David Gardner Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Little things can make a big difference. From spotting hidden competitive advantages in investing to rediscovering the joy in work, this episode is packed with moments that brighten our days. David shares fresh “pet perks” across investing, business, and life—including seeing through dark clouds, the thrill of entrepreneurship, and the simple magic of a car wash. Tune in to celebrate “the small joys that make everything better”! Companies Mentioned: NFLX, TSLA, WMT Host: David Gardner Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every stock tells a story; it takes humans to find the meaning in it. This week, five Fools gather around our suddenly snowy campfire once more to share remarkable stock stories featuring lessons on patience, transformation, and long-term success. From a legendary auto auction company to the footwear brand everyone underestimated, we hope these stories send off fiery sparks to ignite your interest in Rule Breaker Investing. Plus, a look back at Apple’s historic journey from its 1980 IPO to becoming one of the most valuable companies in history. Host: David

Some ideas stand the test of time. Others push us forward into an exciting, ever-changing future. This week, we revisit an old lesson about building bridges instead of walls, explore five cutting-edge innovations reshaping our world, dive into the power of social capital, and reflect on the hidden strength of habits—through the lens of a world-renowned board game designer. Whether it’s investing, relationships, or daily life, this episode will challenge how you think about connection, progress, and the routines that define us. Host: David Gardner Producer: Heather Horton Learn more about

How do you get kids not just thinking about investing, but actually doing it? One Foolish father shares a brilliant approach—turning investing into a game with real-world stakes, and in the process, teaching lifelong lessons about money, patience, and ownership. Plus, we talk incentives, engagement, and Rule Breaker stocks that seem “boring” but have quietly built fortunes. It’s a Mailbag filled with insights for investors of all ages—only on this week’s Rule Breaker Investing! Host: David Gardner Producer: Heather Horton Companies Mentioned: CMG, CPRT, NFLX, SPOT, TREX, TSLA Learn more about

What happens when you bring together three storytellers, three themes, and a podcast devoted to making you smarter, happier, and richer? You get Three Fools, our newest episodic series! This week, David is joined by superstar guests Randi Zuckerberg and Morgan Housel as they each share three stories—one to educate, one to amuse, and one to enrich. From investing lessons that last a lifetime to laugh-out-loud anecdotes and heartwarming life insights, these nine stories are packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Host: David Gardner Guest Stars: Morgan Housel, Randi Zuckerberg Producer:

In this episode, eight years later David welcomes back game designer and publisher Jamey Stegmaier for a lively conversation about scaling a creative venture, building a mission-driven culture, and fostering community in a niche that’s far bigger than most people realize. Discover how Jamey’s focus on crafting delight, coupled with a transparent approach to both fans and collaborators, has fueled Stonemaier Games’ growth and influence. Whether you’re a dedicated board gamer or just interested in entrepreneurial insights, you’ll walk away with fresh perspectives on innovation, purposeful leadership, and the power of

In this 20th installment of one of our longest-running series, David shares five fresh quotes from the likes of Sir Philip Sidney, Danny Meyer, Raj Sisodia, Confucius, and Jeff Bezos. Across these stirring lines, we explore themes of authentic self-expression, continuous reinvention, the power of seeing people as wellsprings of creativity, and the urgency that comes from recognizing we only have one life. If you’re ready to think deeper, act bolder, and craft a richer story for yourself, this episode offers both inspiration and challenge—Rule Breaker style. Host: David Gardner Producer:

David kicks off 2025 by revisiting five timeless lessons drawn from classic episodes spanning nearly a decade of weekly podcasts—now approaching 500 consecutive weeks of fresh content. Reaching back to 2016 and beyond, he rediscovers core investing principles: the surprising advantage of never selling, the folly of waiting for dips, the power of choosing stocks of stellar employers, and how great leaders transform intuition into intentional culture. Revisiting stories of Warren Buffett, Danny Meyer, and exceptional stock picks like Amazon and Nvidia, this episode delivers valuable, enduring truths for investors both

From a preschool teacher newly inspired to invest at 73 to a lifelong Fool whose Microsoft shares became a 500-bagger, this year-end Mailbag brims with transformational stories. Listeners wrestle with rebalancing versus “never sell,” explore “layering in and out” of big winners like Tesla, and reflect on optimism as both delicate and powerful. David highlights multigenerational lessons—like gifting You Have More Than You Think to a nephew-turned-advisor—and celebrates that it’s never too late to start making smarter, happier, and richer choices. This holiday season, embrace the joy of learning from each

The Market Cap Game Show returns! David welcomes Motley Fool favorites Emily Flippen and Mac Greer to the stage as they test their knowledge—and yours—on the true price tags of 10 public companies. From semiconductor giants to convenience store champions, from cutting-edge cybersecurity firms to energy drink dynamos, the competitors tackle stocks both familiar and surprising. Will you outscore Emily, Mac, or both? Play along, challenge your market cap intuition, and discover the surprising values of companies you know and love (and maybe a few you’ve never heard of). Host: David

What were the 10 “Bestie” Rule Breaker Investing podcasts of 2024? From timely and timeless optimism, to risk-rating frameworks, to cutting-edge AI-driven Q&A, plus a first-ever Market Cap Game Show World Championship, this week’s Besties extravaganza highlights 10 remarkable episodes that defined Rule Breaker Investing in 2024. And all the stars are back! Cameos a-plenty in this fifth annual year-end blockbuster, capped by a redux of the community-centric 100th Mailbag, featuring longtime listeners showcasing the power of shared learning. Here’s to another year of smarter, happier, and richer! (6:48) Bestie #1:

From family-friendly fun to complex strategies for seasoned gamers, David shares his annual tabletop gift guide in Games, Games, Games, Vol. 6! Starting with light, accessible games like That’s Not a Hat and Medium, and moving into deeper, richer titles like Ticket to Ride Legacy and Civolution, this year’s list features 13 curated picks for every type of gamer. Whether you’re shopping for a casual game night or looking to challenge your game-loving friends, these recommendations are strategically timed to help you make this holiday season unforgettable. Sixth in its annual

How do you thank someone for saving your life? In this year’s Gratitude episode, Boyd Dunleavey shares his extraordinary journey from beating cancer to running marathons—and how investing in companies like Nvidia and Shopify changed his family’s future. Listener stories span the globe, from a school founder in Japan to a Fool in Bangalore with a portfolio full of 10-baggers. Along the way, David reflects on the power of community, the lessons of loss, and why gratitude is the ultimate fuel for a richer life. This is Thanksgiving, Rule Breaker-style. Host:

As another year winds down, it’s time to pause and reflect on the year of 2024 and the gratitude we feel. From groundbreaking achievements in business (artificial intelligence) to investing home runs (Nvidia, and the S&P 500 overall) to the meaningful connections that enrich our lives, this week’s podcast is an expression of thankfulness for what inspires us, supports us, and keeps us moving forward… and reminds us why we invest. Let’s feel grateful together — let’s call it out! And find sparks of inspiration for the year ahead. Host: David

This June, ChatGPT took its first swing with five big questions about Rule Breaker Investing, and a new episodic series was born. Now, we’re back for Volume 2—with a baseball twist! ChatGPT pitches David five questions, each a unique pitch type: 1. Hardball: What separates Rule Breakers built to last from those destined to fizzle out? 2. Softball: Can David sum up Rule Breaker Investing in one sentence? 3. Curveball: What would make him rethink a long-term winner? 4. Screwball: Is there a traditional investing rule David (begrudgingly) respects? 5. Knuckleball:

Ever felt the chill of a silent room after asking for questions, only to be met with zero raised hands? Or maybe you’ve found yourself buried in commercials, losing valuable family moments during the big game. This week, David shares his latest volume of Mental Tips, Tricks, and Lifehacks with seven unique strategies to make life smoother, smarter, and a bit more joyful. From the Hemingway Bridge to transforming “FAILURE” into an unexpected love message, get ready for a dose of elegance, insight, and a little Rule Breaker flair — this

Mailbag! This week, David welcomes back an expert as we open up focusing on risk... in its prominent forms of tolerance and also capacity. Then, a non-partisan look at the upcoming election: “What truly drives America forward—regardless of political tides?” Some chicken soup for American souls..... At close, a special missive from a Foolish investor who shares his Magnificent Seven score along with a story that cannot fail to inspire. Producer: Desirée Jones Host: David Gardner Guest: Amanda Kish Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you want to hear something really scary? The kind of scary that could drain your accounts and seize your assets? Do not adjust your podcatcher, Fool! Robert Brokamp is back to shock, scare, and surprise you with stories from the dark side of finance. But fret not! He will also give you the keys to your survival. (7:08) There's No Theft Like Home (13:19) A Broker Making You Broker (20:40) The Silence of the Hams (29:36) Scamazon Prime (37:32) The Perfect Storm (47:48) Guardians of the Graceland Host: David Gardner

You're already pretty smart, but let's go for even smarter! Our all-Fool cast is here to help you understand some common and not-so-common investing terms, so that you can be more fun at cocktail parties — and more importantly, be a better investor! Are we heroes? Are we zeros? Keep score and let us know. Host: David Gardner Guests: Amanda Kish, Andy Cross, Sanmeet Deo Producer: Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Rule Breaker Investing, David welcomes Elaine Hungenberg, Senior VP of Partnerships & Impact at XPRIZE. Elaine explains how XPRIZE’s unique competition model sparks world-changing innovations, from space exploration to clean water solutions. In this lively conversation, discover how prize-driven innovation accelerates breakthroughs, hear about some of the most exciting XPRIZE projects, and learn valuable lessons from Elaine’s journey as a thoughtful disrupter. Tune in for a deep dive into creating impact, followed by our always fun, signature round of Buy, Sell, Hold! Host: David Gardner Guest: Elaine Hungenberg

Every stock tells a story. This week on Rule Breaker Investing, we gather around the campfire for the ninth time to share our best stock stories. From Meta Platforms’s long arc of growth to Warner Bros. Discovery’s debt-ridden saga, these stories aren’t just tales of companies; they are lessons for life and investing. David and his Motley Fool friends—Dave Meier, Mary Long, Nathan Alderman, and Tracy Dahl—recount their most memorable stock experiences. Join us at the campfire! (3:17) The Long Arc (11:52) Catching Flies with Honey (22:22) David and Goliath but

On the road and looking at a light mailbag, David writes his own beautiful question this month, using it as an opportunity to highlight five favorite moments from the Rule Breaker Investing podcast in 2024. Companies Discussed: AAPL, AMZN, GOOG, META, MSFT, NVDA, TSLA Host: David Gardner Producer: Desirée Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to our quarterly Market Cap Game Show! This week, two past champions, Matt Argersinger and Yasser El-Shimy, face off in a battle of wits and estimates, each vying for the coveted seat in our 2025 “March Market Cap Madness” World Championships. With 10 stocks on the line and two throwdown rounds, who will come out on top? And how will you fare against our contestants? Whether it’s semiconductors, space exploration, or the future of sound systems, we’ve got an exciting lineup of companies for you to test your market

Investing rewards those who play the long game. While short-term trading can capture gains, true wealth comes from thinking in years, even decades. This applies not just to investing, but also in business, leadership, and life. This week, David interviews Rand Stagen, Managing Director of Stagen Leadership Academy, and one of David’s favorite people in business. Rand shares his wisdom on the long-term development of leaders and organizations, why conscious leadership is crucial for businesses today, and the lessons we can all learn from playing the long game in every aspect

In this sixth installment of Essays from Yesterday, David takes us on a journey back through time to revisit some of his earliest (and sometimes prophetic) investment writings from his days as a Motley Fool newsletter contributor. From reflections on the volatility of 2007-8, to introducing new terms like “Big Dumb Money,” and thoughts on building mental frameworks for investing, David reacts to his past essays with fresh insights for today’s markets. Join us as we explore the lessons learned from history and how they continue to guide our investing journeys

Light mailbag as we pre-recorded early in the month. But always a few things to talk about. Small things come in good packages! Happy Labor Day Weekend to all USA Fools. Host: David Gardner Producer: Desirée Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Games have always been central to the human experience, shaping the way we think, interact, and understand the world. This week, as part of our Authors in August series, David welcomes back philosopher C. Thi Nguyen to explore the deeper implications of games in our lives. From ancient pastimes to modern video games, we delve into why games matter, how they reflect our agency, and what they teach us about ourselves. With his book Games: Agency as Art, Nguyen reveals the profound ways games act as a form of artistic expression

This week on Rule Breaker Investing, David welcomes neuroscientist and bestselling author David Eagleman for a mind-expanding conversation about his book Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives. As part of the ongoing Authors in August series, David dives into Eagleman’s fascinating exploration of life, death, and the possibilities beyond. What can a neuroscientist’s perspective on creativity and storytelling teach us about how we live our lives today? Plus, a speculative look at the future of AI, the neuroscience of rule-breaking, and what it means to leave a lasting legacy. And… does

Continuing our 7th annual Authors in August series, David welcomes John Mackey, co-founder of Whole Foods Market, for a deep dive into his 2024 book, The Whole Story. Reflecting on the journey from Safer Way to Whole Foods to Amazon.com to Love.Life, John shares how passion, purpose, and unexpected surprises shaped a company that’s transformed the way America eats. With a nod to their 2020 conversation on Conscious Leadership, this episode explores the intersection of purpose and profit, and the enduring joy of playing the game of life—and business. Companies Discussed:

Kicking off our 7th annual Authors in August series, David pivots from an unexpected cancellation to a special Poetry of Rule Breaker Investing episode. Herein, a selection of eight original poems from fellow Fools inspired by market movements, Rule Breaker principles, and financial freedom, plus a surprise world-premiere musical tribute! Join us for a whimsical and thought-provoking journey into the art of investing, with a nod to the enduring impact of classic literature. Companies Discussed: AAPL, AMZN, NFLX Host: David Gardner Producer: Desirée Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

In this, our 105th consecutive monthly Mailbag episode, we explore the power of asking beautiful questions, the importance of engaging sincerely with all questions, and the journey of finding one’s platform of value. Companies Discussed: PTON, ROKU, SEA, TDOC, ZOOM Host: David Gardner Producer: Heather Horton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With August imminent, David reminds listeners of the three authors we’re hosting next month and gives one great quote from each of their books as a teaser. But this 19th episode of Great Quotes then starts in earnest with five powerful quotes from past featured August authors Seth Godin, Priya Parker, Amor Towles, Shirzad Chamine, and Warren Berger — with many other books and quotes peppered in. How does the wisdom from each of these brilliant thinkers break the rules, and what do they teach us about investing, business, and life?

“Where my whimsy takes me.” It’s summer in the Northern Hemisphere! Pretty hot, too. In this new episodic series, David shares a five-thought sampler of musings to make you smarter, happier, and richer. This includes seeing investment opportunities with new eyes, understanding the two types of failure, and recognizing an additional benefit of investing in other countries. Grab your lemonade and join us under the summer sun! Companies Discussed: AMZN, NVDA Host: David Gardner Producer: Desirée Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this landmark episode, David reviews and shares perspectives and learnings from the entire collection of 30 five-stock samplers picked from 2015 to 2021, and reviewed into 2024. Using his special 10 1/2 chapter format, David reflects on the themes, results, and lessons from six years of stock picking. How’d we do?! Discover the highs and lows, the glory and the pain, and the enduring principles of Rule Breaker Investing. Companies Discussed: AAPL, AMZN, BKNG, DIS, GOOG, IPGP, MELI, NFLX, NVDA, PTON, SE, TDOC, TSLA, TWOU Host: David Gardner Producer: Desiree

Independence Week in the United States is the perfect time to explore financial freedom. This week’s podcast highlights five key points leading to financial independence, featuring insights from American history, Rule Breaker listeners, and David himself. Rediscover Ben Franklin’s wisdom, the Diderot Effect, and Yankee ingenuity. Learn from listener stories about frugality, teaching financial literacy, and entrepreneurial success. Stories and inspiration helping you achieve financial freedom, American-style. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Rule Breaker Investing’s first-ever outtake — what stock could we NOT feature on last week’s Market Cap Game Show, and why? Bill Barker joins in for a few laughs. David closes out “5 Stocks Pursued by a Bear,” explores with Jim Mueller if The Motley Fool gives options advice, and welcomes a visit from Sean Milliken, head of the Fool’s latest fund. Mailbag! Companies Discussed: AAPL, AXON, DAVA, NFLX, PTON, SNBR, TTD, U, Z Host: David Gardner Guests: Bill Barker, Sean Milliken, Jim Mueller Producer: Desiree Jones Learn more about

The first of the new season, this week’s Market Cap Game Show features an epic showdown between two Bills full of humor, precision(!), wild guesses, and a miss by the thinnest of margins. (Ever!) Can you outscore one… or both… Bills? Companies Discussed: QCOM, CHWY, SNBR, CAVA, MANH, IT, VZ, TGTX, QRVO, TMDX Host: David Gardner Guests: Bill Barker, Bill Mann Producer: Desiree Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the second week in a row, David launches Volume 1 of a new episodic series. This time it’s “Pet Perks,” a celebration of the small joys that enhance our investing, business, and life. What little things make a big difference? Tune in for practical tips and a touch of humor as we explore the finer points of living a Foolish life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices