“`html
Inspiring Journeys: From Cancer to Marathons and Stock Success
In this year’s Gratitude episode of the Rule Breaker Investing podcast, a Motley Fool member recounts his remarkable recovery from cancer and his achievement in running marathons. He shares how investing in companies like Nvidia and Shopify changed his family’s future.
Listener stories come from near and far, featuring a school founder in Japan and an investor in Bangalore with a portfolio filled with 10-baggers. Throughout these narratives, Motley Fool co-founder David Gardner discusses the significance of community, the lessons learned from loss, and how a spirit of gratitude can enrich our lives.
To catch full episodes of all The Motley Fool’s free podcasts, visit our podcast center. To begin your investing journey, explore our beginner’s guide to investing in stocks. A complete transcript follows the video.
This Could Be Your Second Chance at Big Investment Opportunities
Are you worried you missed out on investing in top-performing stocks? Listen up.
Occasionally, our team of expert analysts shares a “Double Down” stock recommendation for companies they believe are on the verge of significant growth. If you think you’ve already missed your opportunity to invest, now might be the best time to buy before it’s too late. Here’s what the numbers indicate:
- Nvidia: If you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2009, you’d have $359,445!*
- Apple: If you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2008, you’d have $45,374!*
- Netflix: If you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2004, you’d have $484,143!*
Currently, we’re issuing “Double Down” alerts for three outstanding companies, and this opportunity may not come around again soon.
See 3 “Double Down” stocks »
*Stock Advisor returns as of December 2, 2024
This video was recorded on Nov. 27, 2024.
David Gardner: This week in the US, we celebrate Thanksgiving—a holiday centered around gratitude, reflection, and connection. I’m grateful to share this episode with you. Together, we will explore the power of kindness, the magic of community, and the incredible stories you have shared over the years, from marathon triumphs to meaningful investments. This is a celebration of appreciation for what we have and those who inspire us to grow.
Welcome back to Rule Breaker Investing during this special week. I’ve received many notes from listeners outside the US wishing us a happy Thanksgiving. Thank you to everyone who took the time to reach out; your thoughtful messages mean a lot. Remember, our email address is rbi@fool.com, and you can always share your thoughts with us, whether you agree or disagree.
This week’s mailbag is filled with warmth and kindness, likely due to my recent gratitude podcast. I always encourage important questions, which we feature at the end of every month. As this month comes to a close, let’s look back on what we discussed in November. We started with the 10th edition of our tips, tricks, and life hacks series, offering seven innovative strategies to make life easier and more enjoyable.
In the following week, we had “ChatGPT asks and I answer Volume 2,” where I tackled five intriguing questions posed by AI about Rule Breaker Investing. Those questions pushed me to reflect critically on our investing approach. I enjoyed engaging with those challenges and will likely continue this format in the future. Finally, last week, I tied everything together with my annual gratitude podcast, perfectly placed in November to celebrate appreciation.
The current market climate feels like a bull market, and many investors are experiencing a sense of gratitude as prices climb. It’s always more enjoyable being a Foolish investor when the market is trending up. Although I avoid making firm predictions, I remain optimistic about continued growth next year. Nonetheless, market fluctuations are inevitable, so we must stay prepared.
This week’s mailbag contains seven thoughtful contributions. The kindness expressed is powerful and resonates worldwide, not just in America. Embracing gratitude is essential; I believe it embodies a core American value. When someone shows gratitude, it’s crucial to acknowledge it, rather than brush it off. During this Thanksgiving week, let’s embrace the spirit of gratitude together. Thank you in advance for your continued engagement!
“““html
The Power of Encouragement in Investing: A Thanksgiving Reflection
Hi, David. Hope you’re well. Because of you, I’ve hit my second goal. I can’t thank you enough. Your advice to hold steady and avoid panic was exceptional. It was scary to follow, but I’m glad your words were in my head when it mattered most. Happy holidays!
I responded. I tweeted back my happiness to hear Lisa commit to investing for her entire life. Knowing that in one year, and even three years, the market may falter can be intimidating. Historically, once every decade, there will be significant downturns. Nonetheless, it’s reassuring to understand that you can expect to compound your investments at 9-10% annually, or even more through Rule Breaker Investing. I’m pleased to say Lisa echoed that sentiment in her reply.
Reflecting on that exchange, I notice the importance of encouragement and how it circulates among us. Social media can be a mixed bag, but in its best moments, positive exchanges shine through. I think that spirit is evident in this podcast and the encouraging notes we received this week. Here’s the idea:
At The Motley Fool, and through this podcast, we encourage you to save and invest your savings. Much like I did with Lisa, we hope to inspire lifelong investment journeys. The stock market can feel like a roller coaster, where fears of market dips can make people want to jump in and out. However, it’s crucial to stay on the ride for the long term, as the stock market has the potential to elevate you higher than you ever imagined by the end of your investing life.
This encouragement over more than 30 years is what drives me, and I am grateful for your notes and support. Each message acts as mutual encouragement that together, we can help countless others who are listening. It’s a cycle of uplift that fosters community.
This week’s podcast encapsulates that cycle. First, let’s highlight some of the tweets we received. @FergusCullen shared a great way to start Thanksgiving week with a 7.5-mile run in crisp 37 degrees while listening to our annual gratitude episode. Thanks, Fergus! If I were running with you, I might only manage a few miles, but it’s impressive to see your dedication.
Likewise, @ErikDeVore mentioned he was listening during a 12-mile bike ride. He was inspired by our discussion on the color blue in last week’s episode, which I appreciate. The gratitude truly flows both ways. Now, let’s turn to our Rule Breaker Investing Mailbag, starting with Item number 1 from Amit Somani.
Thank you, Amit. You wrote, “Hi David, like you, I am deeply grateful for the stock market. It is an unimaginable creation for creating passive wealth and participating in magnificent businesses worldwide.” I couldn’t agree more. Your perspective on the stock market as a wonderful tool for passive income resonates with many, and I appreciate your insights.
Amit further explained his experience investing successfully in large tech companies, noting the astounding growth of his capital over time. He credits platforms like this podcast for helping him feel empowered. Amit expressed gratitude towards the founders of companies such as Mercado Libre, CostCo, Trade Desk, NVIDIA, and Amazon, acknowledging their roles in his investment journey.
While he mentioned he has not yet seen a 100-bagger, he feels hopeful by following other successful investors. Amit beautifully states, “Sometimes it’s neither the journey nor the destination, but the fellow passengers that make it all worthwhile.” This sentiment captures the essence of our community at The Motley Fool. Happy Thanksgiving from Bangalore, India!
Amit’s note brings me joy, and I appreciate your shout-out to the individuals behind our investments. Without their vision, our investment opportunities wouldn’t exist. Together, we share the unbelievable chance to be partial owners in these visionary companies, which is truly something to be thankful for.
As we continue this discussion, I urge gratitude for fair, accessible stock markets around the world. Every citizen, whether in India, the United States, or beyond, deserves to engage with great ideas. The cycle of encouragement, like what Amit mentioned, strengthens our connections, reminding us that we are all in this together. This cycle fuels our community and empowers us all. Let’s continue this journey with enthusiasm and support.
Now, let’s proceed to Mailbag Item number 2.
“`
Gratitude for Investing Insights: A Look Back at Key Contributions
In a heartfelt message, Rich shares his appreciation for The Motley Fool. Here’s a recap of the key points he emphasizes.
1. Weekly Podcasts: A Valuable Resource
Rich expresses gratitude for the free weekly podcasts offered by The Motley Fool. He notes that the extensive range of award-winning investing content makes each week exciting and informative.
2. The Motley Fool 100 ETF: A Smart Investment
Rich highlights the TMFC ticker symbol, which represents The Motley Fool 100 ETF. He mentions that it has accurately followed the NASDAQ Composite and the QQQ over the past five years. Since its launch in 2018, it provides an accessible method for investors seeking Foolish stock picks through an ETF.
3. Insights from the Australian Fools
Rich also recognizes the Australian Motley Fool team. He appreciates their unique energy and valuable insights, which extend beyond the local market. The combination of relevant information and a free platform makes their podcasts an excellent resource for investors worldwide.
Rich reminds us that gratitude is especially important during the Thanksgiving season, extending his wishes to everyone in The Motley Fool community, regardless of their holiday plans.
Motley Fool’s Growing Podcast Variety
In response, David acknowledges Rich’s kind words. He points out the popularity of the Motley Fool Money podcast, both in the U.S. and Australia. This illustrates the global reach and influence of Motley Fool’s investing content.
For those interested in more financial insights, David introduces additional resources, such as the Breakfast News. This daily briefing, available for Motley Fool members, offers a quick overview of the market, including key earnings reports and noteworthy events each morning around 7:30 AM Eastern Time.
Exploring NVIDIA and Future Series Ideas
As the conversation progresses, Kevin McMahon expresses appreciation for insights on NVIDIA’s stock history. He suggests a new series focused on the stock performance of other notable companies like Amazon, Netflix, and Tesla.
David acknowledges the challenge of summarizing a 19-year investment journey through audio but appreciates Kevin’s enthusiasm. He reflects on the importance of sharing investment stories, emphasizing that long-term commitment to stocks often results in significant gains, a lesson that many new investors overlook.
Highlighting Long-Term Success with Data
David shares optimistic numbers from his past stock picks, noting that the 150 stocks picked on his podcast have risen by an incredible 233.2%. In contrast, the S&P 500 has increased by only 116.5%. This data highlights the effectiveness of long-term investing strategies and the importance of maintaining positions in high-quality stocks.
David reiterates his commitment to sharing these inspiring stories and possibly revisiting the five stock samplers that have performed exceptionally well over time. The podcast encourages listeners to adopt a patient and strategic approach to investing, something that defines The Motley Fool’s philosophy.
“`html
The Power of Gratitude in Investing: Insights from Our Community
It’s heartening to reflect on how nurturing investments over time can yield significant returns for investors. As Kevin mentioned in a recent email, it’s essential not to rush the process, much like a fine wine that requires aging. Thank you for your input, Kevin; it greatly enriches our discussions.
Before we delve into our next topic, I want to highlight a generous note from Kevin. He expressed that he wouldn’t mind if his input were overlooked in favor of another, understanding how much joy that could bring someone else. Such character truly stands out, and I appreciate your kindness, Kevin. Let’s move on, starting with Mailbag item number 4.
Thankfulness and Transformation: Jum’s Journey
This note comes from Jum: “I can’t believe Thanksgiving is just around the corner. I’ve been practicing gratitude daily, and I want to acknowledge that you—the Motley Fool community—are a huge part of what I’m thankful for this year.” Jum shared her experiences, mentioning various travels including trips to Thailand and Japan with family, which were made possible through financial independence. She credits the Motley Fool for providing great stock recommendations at a crucial moment in her life.
What stands out for Jum is the community aspect. “We can learn from one another, and even though my wealth could vanish, the knowledge I’ve gained allows me to help my friends and family build their wealth too.” She expressed deep appreciation for the Rule Breaker Investing podcast and eagerly awaits our annual “besties” recognition, coming up in two weeks!
Jum celebrates this platform that encourages sharing incredible ideas and allows everyone to learn together. Happy Thanksgiving, Jum! Your reflections remind us of the importance of community, especially during this season of gratitude.
Martin Triggs: A Journey of Learning and Investing
Next, we have a note from Martin Triggs: “Dear David and the Motley Fool team, I’m filled with gratitude for the work you do in providing high-quality investing insights through your podcasts, particularly the daily Motley Fool Money show.” Martin expresses thanks for the valuable resources that have enriched his understanding of investing, noting stocks such as Shopify and Mercado Libre that he owns and appreciates. He candidly acknowledges that while there have been losses, his winning investments far outweigh them.
Martin illustrates his transformation: “I’ve transitioned from Protestantism to Catholicism and adopted a focused approach to investing thanks to the Motley Fool.” His talent for recognizing truth and patterns has served him well. He writes about his journey from struggling in school to starting his own financial literacy center in Japan—a remarkable achievement.
It’s impressive how Martin’s portfolio surged right after the US election. If he can achieve this, he encourages others that they can too. “Thank you to America for making all this possible,” he concludes, recognizing the opportunities available to him.
I’d like to offer a friendly correction to Martin’s note. He stated that his winnings outweigh “any” losses, but I suggest we change “any” to “all.” In the journey of investing, recognizing that your winners can compensate for all losses is vital—not just for seasoned investors but also for newcomers. This key insight took me years to understand, and it emphasizes the importance of maintaining conviction in your investment choices.
Much like with investing in great companies, staying committed to your strategy can yield rewards that eclipse any setbacks. Thank you, Martin, for your inspiring words and for being a part of this community.
“`
Gratitude and Personal Triumph: Inspirations from the Rule Breakers Community
In this heartfelt episode, David shares meaningful reflections from listeners that highlight appreciation, resilience, and personal growth. These stories remind us of the power of community and the lessons learned from both triumphs and challenges.
Winners Can Outpace Losses
In a recent note, Martin emphasized a crucial financial insight: if you follow the right investment program, your successful investments can compensate for any losses you may encounter. This concept is particularly significant, as many investors focus on preventing losses, sometimes at the cost of missing out on substantial gains. David thanked Martin for his thought-provoking note and praised his dedication to promoting financial literacy, especially through his school in Japan. As November unfolds, David also expressed gratitude for America, likening it to a long-term investment that has faced both highs and lows but ultimately has more wins than losses.
Building a Supportive Community
Turning to listener feedback, Jason Moore shared his appreciation for the podcast and the vibrant Motley Fool Community. He noted how connections fostered through the podcast have enriched his life significantly. This community encourages open discussions about personal values, growth, and even market mistakes, creating a supportive space for all members.
Jason also reflected on deep conversations he had with his father before his passing earlier this year. These meaningful discussions were inspired by previous episodes of Rule Breaker Investing, particularly those dealing with life and loss. It highlighted the importance of cherishing relationships and carrying forward those lessons learned from loved ones.
Encouraging Acts of Gratitude
As a special mention, Jason acknowledged Craig Hawkins, who initiated a November gratitude challenge with his children. This simple yet powerful practice encourages daily reflections of gratitude, reinforcing the sense of community and the joy found in everyday life.
From Adversity to Achievement
Next, Boyd Dunleavy from Canada shared an inspiring story of resilience. A Motley Fool member since 2018, Boyd has overcome blood cancer twice and even completed the Boston Marathon. His journey began dramatically in 2011 when he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and told he had less than six months to live. After a rigorous treatment process and a lifesaving stem cell transplant, Boyd emerged victorious, ultimately becoming a marathon runner. His journey reflects not only survival but the importance of financial planning during difficult times.
Having faced mortality, Boyd sought a way to ensure financial stability for his family. Through his research, he discovered The Motley Fool Investment Services, which he initially approached with caution. Nevertheless, he experienced significant success with investments in companies like Nvidia, Shopify, and the Trade Desk. Now fully engaged in self-directed investing, Boyd expressed satisfaction with his decision to take control of his finances rather than relying on traditional investment management.
As we conclude this episode, both listeners remind us that gratitude can transform lives and that connection with others can create a supportive community where everyone continues to grow together. Thank you to all who contributed their stories, enhancing our understanding of resilience and hope.
Transforming Financial Futures: Boyd’s Journey with The Motley Fool
From Panic Selling to Profound Gains
In a recent reflection, Boyd described his initial struggles with investing, noting how he sold several stocks too soon. Thankfully, some investments—like Nvidia, which soared 2,000% for him—made his journey worthwhile. He highlighted how listening to podcast hosts, who often share their own mistakes with humor, helped him learn valuable lessons about investing for the long term, particularly in quality companies.
A Life-Changing Move and Financial Victory
In 2021, Boyd and his family took a significant step by relocating from Ontario to New Brunswick, Canada. This decision allowed them to pay off their home by their mid-40s, an achievement that has changed their financial outlook dramatically. While Boyd remains discreet about the specific gains from his investments through The Motley Fool, he believes that adding a zero or two to one’s net worth can indeed be life-altering.
Cultivating Success with the Gardner-Kretzmann Continuum
Currently, Boyd holds about 45 stocks, with a Gardner-Kretzmann Continuum score just under one. He shared an enlightening conversation with a friend who owned shares in Apple, revealing that Apple is among his top stock picks. For listeners unfamiliar with the Gardner-Kretzmann Continuum, Boyd encourages a quick online search to better understand its significance. As an English literature major with a love for creative expression, he enjoys playing with language, which adds a unique flair to his communication.
Overcoming Life’s Challenges
Boyd expressed gratitude for a sentiment shared years ago about persistence and self-belief, citing personal accomplishments such as completing multiple Boston Marathons and overcoming health challenges. Recently, he ran his 17th marathon, reaching out to the doctor who once predicted his limited time left with an uplifting email. He acknowledges that guidance from David—presumably a podcast host—has had a substantial impact on his life, enriching not only his journey but also that of his wife and children.
Sharing Gratitude and Encouragement
After narrowly surviving a car accident the previous year, Boyd has committed to living his best life and expressing appreciation to those who have made a positive impact. He emphasized the wider community’s collective journey, recognizing that listeners of the podcast come from varying circumstances—some facing hardships while others celebrate their investment successes. His message resonates as an encouragement to continue striving toward personal goals and sounding a note of gratitude this Thanksgiving.
John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Randi Zuckerberg, a former director of market development and spokeswoman for Facebook and sister of Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Costco Wholesale, Intuitive Surgical, MercadoLibre, Meta Platforms, Netflix, Nvidia, Shopify, Tesla, and The Trade Desk. The Motley Fool recommends Sweetgreen. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.