411 Motley Fool Co-Founder David Gardner on Rule Breaker Investing, Long-Term Thinking, and Leadership That Lasts

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with David Gardner—legendary investor, co-founder of The Motley Fool, and author of Rule Breaker Investing. Over the past three decades, David has not only beaten the market—he’s reshaped how long-term investing is understood and practiced.

David’s track record is extraordinary:

• He recommended Amazon in 1997 (up 86,000% since)
• Tesla in 2012 (up 80,000%)
• Netflix in 2004 (up 937,000%)
• And NVIDIA in 2005 (up a staggering 1.2 million percent)
  
  

But what’s even more compelling is how he did it—and how those principles translate far beyond investing. David shares a deeply thoughtful approach to decision-making, pattern recognition, and long-term conviction that applies to business leaders, not just individual investors.

The conversation ranges from why “indexing is the new active,” to how embracing joy, optimism, and curiosity has made him a better investor, entrepreneur, and human being. For CEOs and leaders navigating uncertainty, David’s blend of rigor, irreverence, and wisdom offers valuable takeaways on strategy, innovation, and leadership mindset.

Whether you’re responsible for growing an organization or stewarding your own portfolio, this is a rare chance to learn from someone who’s played the long game—successfully, repeatedly, and with purpose.

Actionable Takeaways 

• Hear why most people invest backward—and how a “Rule Breaker” mindset flips the script.
  
  
• Learn the six traits David looks for in exponential companies—and how those same traits show up in standout leaders and teams.
  
  
• See why long-term thinking is the ultimate competitive moat—for investors and CEOs alike.
  
  
• Explore how optimism, when grounded in conviction, becomes a leadership advantage—not a liability.
  
  
• Understand how joy and playfulness build trust, culture, and long-term performance.
  
  
• Hear how David picked Amazon, Tesla, Netflix, and NVIDIA early—and why the key wasn’t spreadsheets, but belief in innovation and people.
  
  
• Discover why bold action beats cautious consensus—and how to reframe fear of failure into fuel for success.
  
  
• Get a behind-the-scenes look at how The Motley Fool disrupted financial services—and what it taught David about culture, mission, and momentum.
  
  
• Why the best investors and leaders ignore the crowd—and how to strengthen your internal compass.
  
  
  

Connect with David Gardner

David Garnder LinkedIn 

David Gardner X 

Rule Breaker Investing: How to Think Long Term in a Short-Term World 

Rule Breaker Investing Podcast 

Connect with Mahan Tavakoli:

Mahan Tavakoli Website

Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn

Partnering Leadership Website