Competent Investor Podcast - Tom Bodrovics

“What's your broad analysis of the recent [market event, e.g., sell-off in miners]?”

This is his typical opening move to get a high-level overview of a timely topic.

“Can we start with the fundamentals in the [precious metals] market?”

He asks this to ground the conversation in data and production costs, steering away from hype.

“How is [current geopolitical event] impacting the Federal Reserve's policy?”

This question connects major world events directly to central bank decision-making.

“You recently advised [a specific action]; what was your rationale?”

References the guest's public market calls to understand their strategic process.

“How do factors like [central bank demand] and [energy prices] interact?”

Probes the relationship and second-order effects between two major market forces.

“How are rising input costs like [energy] affecting [miners'] profitability?”

Connects macro trends to the microeconomics and profitability of a specific sector.

“What's your price expectation for [oil/gold] over the next couple of years?”

Asks the expert for a specific, forward-looking and quantifiable outlook.

“If [hypothetical event] happens, would it solve the underlying economic issue?”

Explores the potential long-term impact of future resolutions to current problems.

“What do you see as the main catalyst for a potential market crash?”

Seeks to identify and weigh the primary systemic risk factors in the market.

“How would a market crash constrain the Federal Reserve's policy options?”

This explores the Fed's limitations and potential responses in a crisis scenario.

“Can you explain the mechanics of [a policy like the SPR] and its remaining capacity?”

Asks for a technical explanation of a specific government policy or market mechanism.

“What's your take on the valuation of [a hyped asset like SpaceX]?”

Used to get a contrarian or grounded expert view on a popular market story.