The Little Book of Common Sense Investing

This narration explores a calm, practical approach to investing inspired by John C. Bogle’s index-fund philosophy. Rather than treating the market like a casino where constant action is rewarded, Bogle encourages investors to step back, reduce unnecessary costs, and focus on long-term ownership of businesses through broadly diversified index funds.

Across these chapters, the focus stays on what tends to be within an investor’s control—costs, taxes, turnover, and emotional decision-making. You’ll also hear why many active strategies fall short after fees, why “hot” performance rarely lasts, and how a simple plan can feel almost too easy—yet still be powerful when paired with patience and consistency.

• Anyone who feels overwhelmed by stock picking, market news, or the pressure to time buys and sells—and wants a steadier, simpler long-term plan.
• Investors who suspect fees, taxes, and frequent trading are quietly eroding returns, and want to understand how low-cost index funds may help.
• People looking for a supportive, realistic mindset around investing—one that reduces emotional decisions and emphasizes discipline over excitement.

John C. Bogle was the founder of Vanguard and a leading advocate for low-cost, long-term index fund investing. He argued that minimizing fees, turnover, and speculation can help investors keep more of the returns the market provides over time. His work influenced generations of investors and helped popularize index funds as a mainstream investing tool.