Todd Finkle: A Fresh Take on Warren Buffett

Sep 18, 2024

Todd Finkle, Pigott Professor of Entrepreneurship at Gonzaga University and author, shares his deep insights on Warren Buffett's life and philosophies. He reflects on his personal connections with the Buffett family, including memories with Buffett’s son, Pete. The discussion dives into Buffett's investment approach, the influence of mentors like Charlie Munger, and the significance of resilience gained from his childhood during the Great Depression. Finkle stresses the importance of critical thinking and avoiding toxic relationships for entrepreneurial success.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Lessons from Buffett and Munger

01:33 • 26min

Warren Buffett: Early Lessons in Resilience

28:01 • 22min

Warren Buffett's Entrepreneurial Management Style and Influential Philosophies

49:52 • 4min

Warren Buffett's Strategic Moves during Financial Crisis

53:23 • 2min

Faith in Capitalism Amidst Uncertainty

55:00 • 2min

Lessons from Warren Buffett's Mistakes

56:40 • 18min

Warren Buffett: Decisions and Dynamics

01:15:00 • 9min

The Art of Entrepreneurship and Critical Thinking

01:24:11 • 3min

In this episode of Insight is Capital, Pierre welcomes Dr. Todd Finkle, esteemed Pigott Professor of Entrepreneurship at Gonzaga University and author of 'Warren Buffett: Investor and Entrepreneur.' Dr. Finkle draws on nearly two decades of research and personal experiences and notably, his connection to the Buffett family (he shares his memories of friendship and hanging around at school with Buffett’s son, Pete, and his friendship with both he and Susie), of taking students to meet Warren Buffett in Omaha, to explore Buffett's investment philosophy, entrepreneurial spirit, and the lasting impact of Buffett's childhood during the Great Depression. The discussion highlights the influence of key figures like Charlie Munger and Phil Fisher in Buffett's life, the importance of critical thinking, and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. Dr. Finkle shares the challenges of writing his book and the invaluable lessons learned from Buffett's mistakes while providing unique insights about the importance to Buffett and Munger of avoiding toxic people and embracing continual, lifelong learning.

Timestamped Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Todd Finkle and His Unique Insights on Warren Buffett

01:31 Dr. Finkle's Personal Connection to Warren Buffett and family

02:49 Warren Buffett's Philosophy and Influence

07:08 Buffett's Humble and Positive Character

10:20 Family Ties and Early Life in Omaha

28:04 The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Young Warren Buffett

35:27 Dr. Finkle's Journey to Writing the Book

38:05 Meeting Warren Buffett: A Professor's Experience

41:33 Meeting Warren Buffett: A Life-Changing Experience

42:39 Exploring Omaha: The Heart of Buffett's Investments

44:27 Buffett's Investment Philosophy and Local Business Support

46:02 The Humble Life of Warren Buffett

56:40 Buffett's Mistakes and Lessons Learned

01:10:09 The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Warren Buffett

01:17:31 The Future of Berkshire Hathaway

01:24:10 The Importance of Critical Thinking and Entrepreneurship

01:25:59 Final Thoughts and Best Advice