Intelligent Investment Today - The Warren Buffett Way

Hosted by David Coombs

Business Investing

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Learn timeless value investing strategies from Benjamin Graham, the father of value investing, and mentor to Warren Buffett, in this short and insightful podcast series. In each 10-15 minute episode, we break down Graham’s core investing principles, including concepts like 'Mr. Market' and 'Margin of Safety,' to help you make smarter investment decisions. Perfect for beginners looking to understand the stock market or experienced investors wanting to sharpen their strategy, this podcast simplifies classic value investing for today’s markets. Whether you're just getting started or refining your approach, you'll gain practical, actionable tips for long-term investing success. Tune in to build a solid foundation, invest wisely, and stay disciplined—no matter the market conditions. #ValueInvesting #StockMarketBasics #BenjaminGraham #InvestmentStrategies #WarrenBuffett

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 16, 202615 min

The Balance Sheet: Where Intelligent Investing Begins

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we return to the foundations of classic value investing and explore the discipline Benjamin Graham considered essential: balance sheet analysis. While modern markets obsess over stories, growth narratives, and technological excitement, Graham insisted that intelligent investing begins with something far more concrete — financial reality.Drawing directly from Graham’s principles, we break down why assets, liabilities, liquidity, and debt matter far more than market hype. You’ll learn:Why Graham prioritised downside protection and the margin of safetyWhat working capital, liquidity, and debt levels reveal about a company’s resilienceHow balance sheet strength can determine whether a business survives a downturnWhy tangible assets and conservative financing still matter in today’s marketsHow dilution, leverage, and weak financial structures quietly destroy shareholder valueThis episode is a reminder that before investors get excited about growth or disruption, they must first understand the financial structure supporting the business underneath.Support the show

June 9, 202619 min

Are Bonds Really Safe? Understanding Credit Risk and Yield

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we take a deep dive into the world of bonds and fixed income investing — and explore why Benjamin Graham believed many investors misunderstood the risks involved.While bonds are often presented as “safe” investments, the reality is far more complex. We examine the critical differences between government bonds, corporate bonds, secured debt, unsecured debt, senior debt, subordinated debt, and high-yield bonds.You’ll learn: What bonds actually are and how they work Why not all bonds carry the same level of risk The difference between secured and unsecured debt How capital structure and repayment hierarchy affect investors Why bond yields can sometimes signal hidden danger What liens, seniority, and subordinated debt mean in practice Why Benjamin Graham warned against reaching for yield How intelligent investors think about downside protection and credit risk This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in value investing, fixed income markets, portfolio construction, credit analysis, and long-term risk management.Support the show

June 2, 202613 min

The Subtle Art of Ignoring the Noise

What can a mindset book teach us about investing?In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, David Coombs explores the surprising connection between The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck and the principles of value investing.From ignoring short-term market noise to staying disciplined during volatility, this episode examines how selective focus, emotional control, personal responsibility, and long-term thinking can shape better investment decisions.Because successful investing is not about reacting to everything — it’s about focusing on what truly matters.Topics include:Why market noise leads to poor decisionsThe importance of emotional disciplineHandling volatility and uncertaintyLong-term thinking in value investingThe psychology behind successful investorsWhy simplicity often outperforms complexityA thoughtful exploration of mindset, behaviour, and the timeless principles of value investing.Support the show

May 26, 202612 min

“One Step Away from Poverty” — A Warren Buffett Warning

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we explore a powerful and often overlooked idea attributed to Warren Buffett:“If your salary is your only income, you are only one step away from poverty.”At first glance, the statement may seem extreme. But as we unpack it, a deeper message emerges — one about financial vulnerability, behavioural habits, and the true foundations of long-term wealth.This episode examines why relying on a single income source creates risk, regardless of how much you earn, and how building additional streams of income can provide stability, flexibility, and peace of mind.We also explore the behaviours that stand in the way — from lifestyle inflation and impulse spending to the challenge of delayed gratification — and why financial independence begins not with investing, but with how we manage what we already have.Because the real lesson behind Buffett’s quote is not about fear.It is about control.About reducing dependence, building resilience, and making decisions that support your future — not just your present.Support the show

May 19, 202613 min

Growth, Quality, and Compounding: The Fisher Framework

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we explore Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits by Philip Fisher — a book that takes investing beyond the numbers and into the heart of the business itself.While traditional value investing, as taught by Benjamin Graham, focuses on valuation and margin of safety, Fisher introduces a different perspective: the importance of business quality, long-term growth, and exceptional management.This episode examines Fisher’s distinctive approach, including his famous “scuttlebutt” method, his focus on qualitative insight, and his framework for identifying companies with the potential to compound value over time.We also explore how these ideas influenced Warren Buffett, shaping the evolution of his philosophy into a blend of discipline and insight — combining Graham’s quantitative rigour with Fisher’s focus on great businesses.Because the most powerful investing approach is not choosing between value and growth.It is understanding how the two work together.Support the show

May 12, 202614 min

Coca-Cola: A Great Business, But Is It a Great Investment?

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we analyse The Coca-Cola Company through the lens of value investing.Often regarded as one of the most recognisable and durable businesses in the world, Coca-Cola offers a powerful case study in simplicity, brand strength, and competitive advantage. But as every disciplined investor knows, a great business is not always a great investment.Drawing on principles popularised by Warren Buffett and Benjamin Graham, we explore: Why Coca-Cola is such an understandable business The true nature of its competitive moat How brand, distribution, and habit reinforce its dominance And why valuation remains the most important part of the equation A thoughtful discussion on quality, price, and the discipline required to invest wisely.Support the show

May 5, 202615 min

Before Berkshire: The Early Decisions That Shaped Warren Buffett

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we explore the early life and formative experiences of Warren Buffett — one of the most influential investors in history.From his childhood fascination with numbers and small entrepreneurial ventures in Omaha, to his first lessons in the stock market and the pivotal influence of Benjamin Graham, Buffett’s journey is a masterclass in the development of disciplined, long-term thinking.We examine the investments that shaped his philosophy — including early successes, costly mistakes, and the defining moment of his GEICO investment — as well as the principles that would later underpin the rise of Berkshire Hathaway.This episode is not just a biography. It is an exploration of how great investors are made: through curiosity, patience, and a commitment to continuous learning.Whether you are new to investing or refining your own approach, Buffett’s early story offers timeless lessons in value, discipline, and rational decision-making.Support the show

April 28, 202613 min

The Moustache Test: What Graham Teaches Us About Judging Management

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we explore a subtle but critical question for investors: how much should we trust management?Drawing on the insights of Benjamin Graham, the father of value investing, we examine why even the most disciplined investors must be cautious when evaluating the people running a business.From Graham’s famous “moustache” anecdote to the challenges of assessing leadership from the outside, this episode uncovers the hidden role of bias, perception, and overconfidence in investment decisions. We also explore how Warren Buffett built on Graham’s thinking—emphasising strong businesses that can succeed regardless of who is in charge.You’ll learn: Why judging management is far more difficult than it appears How unconscious biases influence investment decisions The importance of margin of safety when uncertainty is high Why integrity matters more than charisma How to avoid costly mistakes when evaluating CEOs In an age of constant access to executives through earnings calls, interviews, and social media, it’s easy to believe we understand management better than we do. This episode is a timely reminder that what we see is often incomplete—and sometimes misleading.If you’re serious about long-term investing, this discussion will help you stay grounded, disciplined, and focused on what truly matters.Support the show

April 24, 202615 min

Beyond The Intelligent Investor: Storage and Stability Explained

In this episode of Intelligent Investment Today, we take a deeper dive into one of the most overlooked works by Benjamin Graham — Storage and Stability.While Graham is best known for The Intelligent Investor and Security Analysis, this lesser-known book reveals a broader and more ambitious side of his thinking—one focused not just on investing, but on economic stability itself.We explore Graham’s concept of “storage” as a mechanism for stabilising commodity prices, his proposal for a commodity-backed currency system, and his concern with the damaging effects of price volatility on markets and society.More importantly, we connect these ideas back to modern investing: What does “stability” really mean in today’s markets? Can volatility ever be reduced—or should it be embraced? How does instability create both risk and opportunity for value investors? What can Graham’s economic thinking teach us about portfolio construction and resilience? In an era of rapid market movements, inflation shocks, and global uncertainty, Graham’s insights remain surprisingly relevant. His work reminds us that while we cannot eliminate volatility, we can prepare for it—through discipline, patience, and a margin of safety.Whether you’re a long-term investor or a dedicated student of value investing, this episode offers a unique perspective on how markets function beneath the surface—and how to navigate them more effectively.Support the show

April 17, 202613 min

The Illusion of Safety: Why Cash Isn’t Risk-Free

When markets turn volatile, many investors do the same thing: sell, step back, and move into cash. It feels safe. It feels smart.But what if that instinct is quietly working against you?In this episode, we unpack the rush to cash during times of crisis — and reveal the less visible risks that come with it, including inflation, missed opportunities, and long-term wealth erosion.A must-listen for anyone looking to think more clearly and invest more intelligently during uncertain times.Support the show