
The Investing for Beginners Podcast - Your Path to Financial Freedom
We make the complicated stock market simple. We show you how to take advantage of the emotions in the market with lessons from successful strategies such as value investing and dividend growth investing, with a few elements of growth investing and trend following.
Latest episodes

Jan 8, 2024 • 39min
IFB325: Activist Investors: Reshaping Companies like Crown Castle
Welcome to The Investing For Beginners Podcast, I'm Dave, and with me is the astute investor, Andrew. In episode IFB325, we're unpacking the substantial yet sometimes stealthy impact of activist investors on key players like Crown Castle and PayPal. We'll discuss the role of renowned investors like Bill Ackman and George Soros in driving, or derailing, a company's success.We'll explore what happens when activist investors begin calling the shots, the transformation they can bring, their potential for value destruction, and the delicate balance of corporate governance they disrupt. Plus, we'll talk about the implications of founder control, citing examples like Elon Musk at Tesla.00:00 Leverage buyouts and activism affect investments.04:45 Activist investors force change in companies' strategies.09:39 Shareholders' influence on company and board structure.12:47 Elliot drove change amid PayPal's struggles.15:28 Activist investors focus on short-term value.19:01 Change of heart, motivations, and company impact.23:11 Depend on majority owners, simplicity of businesses.25:50 Success of tech companies depends on leadership.29:57 Understanding activist investing: motivations, impact, and outcomes.For more insight like this into investing and stock selection for beginners, visit stockmarketpdf.com Find great investments at Value SpotlightHave questions? Send them to newsletter@einvestingforbeginners.comToday's show is sponsored by:Get a 30-day free trial at www.shipstation.com/investing. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring the show!Get 55% off at Babbel.com/BEGINNERS.Compare and find smarter credit cards, savings accounts, and more today at NerdWallet.com. SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOWApple | Spotify | Google | Amazon | Tunein Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 4, 2024 • 42min
Wisdom from Buffett and Munger: Brian Feroldi Talks Quality Investing
Brian Feroldi, special guest, explores capital efficiency through investments like See's Candy. Munger's influence on Buffett's value investing strategy and the importance of capital light businesses is discussed. The risks and considerations of averaging down in the stock market are explored, along with the complex relationship between a company's story and market perception. Brian emphasizes business fundamentals over market noise and advocates for limiting capital allocation. Tech stocks driving the market and the impact of narrative on stock price are also analyzed.

Jan 1, 2024 • 47min
IFB324: The Art of Portfolio Diversification and Stock Picking Frequency
Hello, investors! Welcome to episode 324 of The Investing For Beginners Podcast. I'm Dave, here with Andrew. Today, we're answering a listener's question on how to smartly invest $100 a week in top-tier companies like Apple and Google. We're discussing the power of consistent investing, strategic compounding, and aligning your retirement goals with your investment plan.We'll talk about the merits of investing a set amount monthly versus investing as much as you can when you can. Andrew shares his insights on creating a solid checklist for evaluating businesses, while I weigh in on when to sell stocks based on business fundamentals.Expect to learn about crafting your own investing checklist with tips from investment legends, dive into the complexities of capital gains taxes, and the significance of getting professional tax and investment advice. Don’t miss our thoughts on diversification and the stress of frequent stock picking. Ready to boost your investing IQ? Let's jump into the mix!00:00 Retirement costs vary based on lifestyle choices.04:47 Consistency in investing is key for progress.06:53 Monthly stock picking provides valuable research time.12:22 Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard in all-cash deal.16:05 Broker helps simplify capital gains tax process.19:23 Key questions drive understanding of Amazon business.21:11 Understanding business models simplifies complex technology.27:17 Evaluating investments: checklist, numbers, business dynamics, competition.31:42 Focus on business fundamentals for investment decisions.33:22 Balancing opportunities while avoiding constant change.36:26 Prioritize risk factors to identify opportunities faster.For more insight like this into investing and stock selection for beginners, visit stockmarketpdf.com Find great investments at Value SpotlightHave questions? Send them to newsletter@einvestingforbeginners.comToday's episode is sponsored by:Get a 30-day free trial at www.shipstation.com/investing. Thanks to ShipStation for sponsoring the show!Get 55% off at Babbel.com/BEGINNERS.SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOWApple | Spotify | Google | Amazon | Tunein Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 28, 2023 • 45min
Investing in Financial Knowledge with Val Agostino of Monarch Money
Val Agostino, co-founder and CEO of Monarch Money, discusses the importance of financial security and the risks of free apps. He shares insights from his experience at Mint and the mission of MonarchMoney.com. Topics include building emergency funds, setting goals, collaborating in money management, and the advantages of paid platforms. The benefits of treating investing as a multiplayer game are explored, along with the ease and simplicity of using Monarch Money for financial health improvement through consistent actions.

Dec 25, 2023 • 35min
IFB323: Understanding the World of Utilities - Analyzing Southern Company from a Beginner's Perspective
Welcome back to the Investing for Beginners Podcast! In today's episode, Dave and Andrew dive into some thought-provoking listener questions. They start off by addressing the popular query: "Is Robinhood a good starter investment?" The hosts engage in a comprehensive discussion about the investment potential and risks associated with the company.They proceed to tackle a captivating question from a college student seeking advice on investing in their late 20s. The hosts offer valuable insights on how to approach investment opportunities with limited funds and ample time.Lastly, they break down the nuances of analyzing utilities as investment options, shedding light on the specific characteristics of these companies and the reasoning behind their investment appeal.00:00 Investing for Beginners podcast, episode 323, Q&A.05:51 Learning fundamentals for sound investment decisions, ratios, earnings.09:15 "New investors should be cautious and patient."10:39 Consider stock choice beyond low share price.16:47 Southern Company likely a steady, income-focused investment.20:00 Utilities face challenges in funding and margins.21:07 Utility investments require significant financial support.25:40 Utility investment, long-term, with renewable potential.For more insight like this into investing and stock selection for beginners, visit stockmarketpdf.com Find great investments at Value SpotlightHave questions? Send them to newsletter@einvestingforbeginners.comSUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOWApple | Spotify | Google | Amazon | Tunein Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 21, 2023 • 34min
Remembering Charlie Munger: Personal Reflections on a Legendary Investor's Impact
Remembering Charlie Munger, a legendary investor with a profound impact on the investing world. Hosts discuss his perseverance, mental models, love for learning, and valuable lessons. Delve into his underrated but impactful nature. Explore inversion in investment strategy and delve into topics like Bitcoin and diet experimentation. Summarize Costco's enduring strength and challenges. Highlight Munger's curiosity and never-ending quest for knowledge.

Dec 18, 2023 • 27min
IFB321: Getting Started with Investing in Stocks - Easy Steps for New and Tight Budgets
In this podcast, Dave and Andrew discuss getting started with stock investing on a tight budget, the pros and cons of ETFs versus individual stocks for long-term investing, and the importance of teaching children about investing and financial skills from a young age.

Dec 14, 2023 • 40min
IFB320: The Art of Analyzing Stock Price Drops and Investment Fundamentals
Learn how to invest smartly in company assets, analyze stock price drops, and understand investment fundamentals. Topics covered include reading annual reports, deciphering ownership structures, investing in yieldcos, minimizing taxes, and evaluating stock falls based on fundamentals. The hosts stress the importance of understanding tax implications, exploring different investment structures, and reevaluating why a stock was bought. They also provide safety reminders and recommend resources for investing with confidence.

Dec 11, 2023 • 52min
The Investing Journey: Insights from Jeff & Jason of Investing Unscripted
Welcome back to another episode of The Investing For Beginners Podcast – I’m Dave, here with Andrew, and today we're thrilled to chat with two ace investors from the Smattering Show (now changed to Investing Unscripted) – Jeff Santoro, known on Twitter as Market Musician, and Jason Hall, whose handle is @_TheSmattering. Both are esteemed contributors at Motley Fool and bring a wealth of experience and unique perspectives to our discussion.In this episode, Jeff talks about his evolution from a music teacher to an astute investor, emphasizing his research-intensive strategy and a careful approach that values input from diverse sources. He’s transparent about his growing investments and his significant stake in index funds.On the flip side, Jason stresses the need to question investment theses rigorously and his preference for a mix of stable, dividend-paying companies and growth stocks. His narative on an investment that didn’t pan out provides a sobering lesson on risk and resilience.Together, they’ll touch upon the psychological aspects of investing, the importance of having a disciplined strategy to avoid rash decisions, and the role of technology in today’s investing landscape.This episode is not just about stock picks and strategies—it also delves into the critical topic of financial literacy, reflecting on its current state within the educational system.Prepare for a mix of engaging stories, seasoned advice, and thoughtful reflections on the world of investing. Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation with Jeff and Jason. Let's dive in!Jason Hall Twitter(X) @TheSmatteringJeff Santoro Twitter(X) @marketmusicianInvesting Unscripted Twitter(X) @InvestingPodInvesting Unscripted 00:00 Realized lack of savings, found passion writing.05:46 Morgan Household inspires through transformative business ventures.09:10 Investing in familiar, big brand stocks over time.11:56 Circuit City, CarMax stock surprise, profitable discovery.14:33 Work busier = less urge to trade.16:57 Managing urge to take action as investor.21:17 Lesson in unexpected outcomes, diversification as protection.23:58 Overbought stocks at high prices, learning from mistakes.28:27 New to business, seeking input for growth.31:39 Investing in stocks, diversifying, and focusing on stability.35:36 Diminishing returns on knowing everything about business.38:57 Wishing I knew the importance of starting early.40:52 Supports teaching financial literacy in school and at home.43:45 Podcast helped start investing journey during pandemic.For more insight like this into investing and stock selection for beginners, visit stockmarketpdf.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOWApple | Spotify | Google | Amazon | TuneinQuestions? Send them to newsletter@einvestingforbeginners.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 7, 2023 • 37min
IFB319: Cutting Losses: A Guide to Exiting Bad Investments
In this episode, the hosts answer listener questions on spin offs and quitting bad investments. They discuss the impact of market fluctuations, the hidden potentials of spin offs, and signs that indicate it's time to sell. They also explore growth industries like EV, AI, and Internet Security, and share personal investing tales.