The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

402 | Jason Shurka | Living in Flow: How Surrender and Higher Intelligence Transform Everything Jan 07, 2026

Show notes

What if letting go is the key to taking control of your life? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Jason Shurka joins Darius to dive into the power of surrender and the freedom that comes from realizing you are not the driver, but the one being guided by a higher intelligence. They explore how becoming a vessel for creation transforms the way you direct your energy, form relationships, and live intentionally.

Jason explains how anger is just energy at a different frequency, and how it can be transformed into joy and used as fuel for growth. They also unpack the science and spirituality of water, including how thoughts, words, and affirmations can influence your body at a molecular level, supporting flow, coherence, and overall well-being.

In this episode, Darius and Jason will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(02:50) Jason's Journey to Superhuman

(05:44) The Role of Adversity in Growth

(08:47) Understanding Life and Death

(11:44) The Concept of Karma and Balance

(14:37) The Power of Perspective

(17:15) Energy and Existence

(20:03) Technology and Wellness

(24:18) The Lifting of the Veil: Elevation of Consciousness

(33:04) Channeling Creativity: The Art of Writing

(43:10) Transmuting Energy: From Anger to Joy

(47:23) Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs

Jason Shurka overcame profound personal hardship to transform his life and step into a higher calling. After a severe physical and spiritual crisis, he committed himself to the Fundamental Laws of Creation and dedicated his life to awakening humanity to higher truth. He is now a bestselling author, film producer, entrepreneur, and the founder of UNIFYD World, a global faith-based organization using conscious media and innovative technologies to promote health, wellness, and human potential.

Connect with Jason:

Becoming Superhuman: https://www.jasonshurka.com/superhuman

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-shurka-145935232/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonshurkaofficial/

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

TGM Classic | Marko Gargenta | Being a Life Maximizer: Pushing Boundaries in Life and Work Jan 05, 2026

Show notes

How can you balance work and play while achieving unparalleled success? What are the keys to maximizing every moment of your life?

Balancing work and play while achieving unparalleled success is a delicate yet achievable feat, as demonstrated by Marko Gargenta's journey. Best known for his innovative ventures, he embodies the art of integrating work and play seamlessly into his life, highlighting several key strategies that anyone can adopt to maintain equilibrium and excel in both professional and personal realms.

Marko stresses the importance of setting clear priorities and boundaries. By defining what matters most in both work and personal life, individuals can allocate their time and energy effectively. For Marko, this means dedicating time to work tasks, utilizing technology and optimizing workflows to maximize output.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Marko as they delve into his remarkable journey—from immigrating from Serbia to Canada during the Yugoslav Wars, his transitions between tech and hospitality industries, to founding PlusPlus. Marko shares his inspirations for entering tech, including the creation of Marakana for tech training, and his pivotal decision to join Twitter. He discusses crafting a personal vision and actively pursuing it, advocating for living an epic life through joyous experiences.

Topics include:

Marko recalls immigrating from Serbia to Canada during the Yugoslav Wars
Marko talks about his professional journey and founding PlusPlus
What inspired Marko to transition to the tech industry
Transitioning from tech to hospitality and back
Creating Marakana as a sandbox for tech training and consulting
Marko reveals his inspiration for joining Twitter
Creating a vision for your life and actively working towards making it a reality
Embracing the concept of living an epic life and seeking out experiences that bring you joy
And other topics…

Connect with Marko:

Website: https://plusplus.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markogargenta/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/markog

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

401 | Donna Zajonc | The Power of TED* (*The Empowerment Dynamic) Jan 01, 2026

Show notes

Ever find yourself stuck in drama, reacting before you think, or feeling powerless in situations you care about?

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Donna Zajonc dives deep into the Drama Triangle and its positive alternative, The Empowerment Dynamic (TED). She and Darius explore how cultivating awareness, clarifying intention, and practicing self-compassion can turn automatic reactivity into conscious leadership and personal growth. Donna shares practical strategies for recognizing when we fall into victim, persecutor, or rescuer roles, and how to shift into creator, challenger, or coach roles that empower both ourselves and others. Whether in family life, friendships, or at work, these tools offer a roadmap to more meaningful, effective, and empowered interactions.

In this episode, Darius and Donna will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to the Empowerment Dynamic

(02:35) Donna Zajonc's Journey and Background

(05:34) The Drama Triangle Explained

(08:26) The Empowerment Dynamic Framework

(11:23) Understanding the Roles in the Drama Triangle

(14:15) Shifting from Drama to Empowerment

(16:50) The Importance of Awareness and Choice

(19:59) Leadership and the Empowerment Dynamic

(22:39) Challenging vs. Persecuting Roles

(27:29) The Power of Words and Personal Growth

(29:12) Understanding the Drama Triangle

(31:07) Shifting from Persecutor to Challenger

(33:06) The Role of Intention in Communication

(34:54) Curiosity as a Tool for Growth

(37:00) Navigating the Rescuer Role

(38:53) Empowerment Dynamics in Leadership

(40:57) The Importance of Self-Compassion

(42:50) Tools for Personal and Professional Growth

(44:37) Creating a Culture of Empowerment

Donna Zajonc, MCC, is the Director of Coaching at the Center for The Empowerment Dynamic, where she designs and facilitates coaching programs based on the TED* framework (The Empowerment Dynamic). A Master Certified Coach since 2013 and recipient of Washington State’s Excellence in Coaching Award in 2017, Donna has been dedicated to professional coaching since 2001. Alongside her business partner David Emerald, she helps coaches and leaders move from the Drama Triangle to the empowering roles of Creator, Challenger, and Coach. Donna lives in the Pacific Northwest, enjoying beach walks, good books, dark chocolate, microbrews, and time with her children and grandchildren.

Connect with Donna:

Website: https://theempowermentdynamic.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-zajonc-mcc-612455/

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

400 | My One Word for 2026 Dec 31, 2025

Show notes

What if the way you’ve been winning is actually costing you your freedom?

In this milestone 400th episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh goes solo to close out the year with a personal reflection on growth, self-worth, and alignment.

Darius shares his annual practice of choosing one word to guide the year ahead, reflecting on a year defined by challenge and revealing the word shaping how he’ll show up in 2026. Along the way, he unpacks patterns many high performers face, proving worth through achievement, contorting to win, and sacrificing sovereignty for success, and why choosing wholeness over hustle changes everything.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Celebrating Milestones: Episode 400 and New Year's Eve

(02:55) Reflecting on the Word of the Year: Challenge

(05:55) Embracing Sovereignty: A New Direction for 2026

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

TGM Classic | Shirl Penney | Living the American Dream Dec 29, 2025

Show notes

How does one go from financial struggle to creating a platform worth nearly $100 billion?

This question encapsulates the extraordinary journey of Shirl Penney, founder, president, and CEO of Dynasty Financial Partners. Beginning in rural Maine where financial stability was difficult to come by, his story is one of grit and determination.

Although Shirl had to overcome early hardships, his desire for education and self-improvement led him to prestigious institutions and eventually to the competitive world of finance. Having navigated and overcome numerous obstacles led to the establishment of Dynasty Financial Partners, a firm he founded with resilience and an innovative mindset.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Shirl Penney to share his compelling journey from the financial struggles of his upbringing in rural Maine to building a financial empire managing nearly $100 billion in assets. The conversation delves into the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the innovative strategies he employed to revolutionize the wealth management industry. Shirl also discusses the importance of resilience, leadership, and maintaining a clear vision in the pursuit of success.

Topics include:

Shirl looks back at being homeless to founding Dynasty Financial Partners
Improving financial literacy and providing independent financial advice
The origin and motivation behind the creation of Dynasty Financial Partners
The impact of Shirl’s upbringing and experiences on his approach to business
The value of maintaining a strong corporate culture and significant growth
And other topics…

Connect with Shirl:

Website: https://dynastyfinancialpartners.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirlpenney

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

399 | My #1 Advice for Building a Dream Client List Dec 26, 2025

Show notes

What if the key to unlocking your biggest opportunities wasn’t in the size of your audience—but in the conversations you choose to have?

In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh pulls back the curtain on one of his best-kept secrets: how to use a podcast to build powerful relationships, expand your network, and land your dream clients—without chasing downloads or going viral. He shares the origin story of The Greatness Machine, how it began as a live stream for a book launch, and why focusing on who you interview matters more than how many people are listening.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Podcasting for Networking

(02:08) The Journey of The Greatness Machine

(05:55) Building Relationships Through Podcasting

(11:56) Podcasting as a Sales Tool

(16:08) The Future of Podcasting and Networking

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

398 | Preston Smiles | Spiritual Millionaire - Amplify Your Life through Love, Self-Worth and Abundance Dec 24, 2025

Show notes

Are you ready to confront the stories you tell yourself and step into your fullest potential?

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Preston Smiles shares his journey of personal growth, from navigating childhood challenges to becoming a world-renowned coach and thought leader. He opens up about the patterns he had to unlearn, including addictive behaviors, identity struggles, and emotional disconnection, and how he learned to cultivate presence, healthy relationships, and leadership within his own family.

Preston breaks down how our nervous system, mindset, and body intelligence shape our experiences, and why capacity, not just knowledge, is key to creating lasting transformation. He also introduces “The Bridge Experience,” an immersive workshop designed to help people embody their growth in powerful, practical ways.

This conversation is raw, honest, and packed with insights about breaking cycles, expanding capacity, and living a life of love, purpose, and conscious leadership.

In this episode, Darius and Preston will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction

(01:47) Preston's Origin Story and Transformation

(05:34) The Impact of Childhood Experiences

(09:21) Resilience and Adaptation in Adversity

(13:15) The Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery

(18:49) The Role of Authenticity in Relationships

(26:19) Surrendering to a Higher Power and Continuous Growth

(30:47) The Leadership Journey: Personal Accountability

(32:48) Addiction to Pain: Recognizing Patterns

(35:36) Attracting Light and Darkness: The Duality of Existence

(38:29) Building Capacity: The Key to Mastery

(41:17) The Observer: Identifying Beyond Titles

(46:52) The Bridge Experience: Transformative Workshops

(54:43) Overcoming Toxic Shame: The Path to Greatness

Preston Smiles is an Abundance Coach, transformational speaker, and bestselling author whose journey from surf instructor to multi-millionaire reflects his deep commitment to personal growth and humanity. Known for his high-energy presence and groundbreaking book Spiritual Millionaire: Unlock the 7 Inner Laws of Abundance, Preston has coached over 100,000 people since 2005 and leads global workshops with his wife, Alexi. His work centers on nervous system healing, embodied leadership, and expanded abundance. A former Millennial Mentor of the Year and cover feature of Inspired Coach Magazine, Preston has appeared on top platforms like Impact Theory and The School of Greatness. His bold messages and viral content continue to inspire millions—earning him praise from leaders like Jack Canfield and Michael Beckwith, who call him “unstoppable.”

Connect with Preston:

Website: https://prestonsmiles.com/

Workshop: https://www.thebridgemethod.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prestonsmiles/

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

TGM Classic | Darius Foroux | The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity Dec 22, 2025

Show notes

In our pursuit of wealth, what lessons can we learn from stoicism?

Darius Foroux, an investor, entrepreneur, blogger, podcast host, and writer, examines how to achieve lasting wealth and personal fulfillment by exploring stoicism's timeless wisdom. His newest book, The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity, serves as a practical guide for integrating stoic principles into financial strategies.

Rather than placing a heavy emphasis on external circumstances, Darius Foroux emphasizes the importance of emotional mastery in wealth-building. Through stoic teachings, he highlights moderation, gratitude, and meaningful experiences over material possessions as ways to transition from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset.

This episode of The Greatness Machine features Darius Foroux to give a sneak peek into his new book, The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity, and to delve into the transformation power of stoicism in the pursuit of wealth, emphasizing the emotional resilience and mastery as foundational to financial success. This conversation will also explore the intersection of philosophy and practical financial strategies, providing a compelling framework for enduring prosperity.

Topics include:

Darius Foroux talks about his motivation for book writing
The benefits of managing emotions to build wealth
Transitioning from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset
The importance of not being overly attached to money
Darius Foroux discusses living according to stoicism
Prioritizing meaningful experiences over material possessions
And other topics…

Connect with Darius Foroux:

Website: https://dariusforoux.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusforoux/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dariusforoux/

Book: https://members.dariusforoux.com/stoic-path

Connect with Darius Mirshahzadeh:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

397 | How to Be A Strong Person (Part 2) Dec 19, 2025

Show notes

What if real strength isn’t about power or dominance, but about generosity, courage, and who you stand up for when no one’s watching?

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh continues his series on How to Be a Strong Person, focusing on two defining traits: giving more than you take and standing up for the little guy. Darius challenges scarcity thinking and outrage-driven culture, encouraging listeners to lead with abundance, generosity, and integrity. Through personal stories and leadership lessons, he shares how true strength shows up in everyday actions, from supporting others to using influence responsibly.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) The Rise of Polarizing Content

(02:42) Giving More Than You Take

(11:01) Standing Up for the Little Guy

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

396 | Jennifer K. Hill | Decoding What Truly Drives People in Work and Life Dec 17, 2025

Show notes

What really drives people to succeed, and how can understanding it transform your teams and relationships?

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Jennifer Hill, author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of OptiMatch. Jennifer dives into the science of human motivation and connection, explaining how her OptiMatch system measures what drives people and how those motivators impact teamwork, business partnerships, and even personal relationships. She shares insights on how understanding team members’ motivational profiles can reduce friction, improve communication, and create more effective collaboration.

Darius and Jennifer explore practical applications of OptiMatch, including assessing startup teams, venture capital investments, and business partnerships. Jennifer also touches on how motivation alignment can predict compatibility beyond business, including in romantic relationships, and gives a sneak peek into her upcoming book, “Recovering Asshole.”

In this episode, Darius and Jennifer will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and First Impressions

(05:50) Entrepreneurial Beginnings

(08:52) The Road to Recruitment

(15:03) Personal Development and Transformation

(17:58) Understanding the Asshole Within

(20:48) The Impact of Humor and Public Perception

(23:52) Navigating Career Choices

(27:04) Reflections on Wealth and Responsibility

(29:55) Energetic Hygiene and Self-Care

(30:52) Exploring Sleep Aids and Personal Rituals

(33:30) Introducing OptiMatch: A New Business Venture

(39:34) Understanding Human Design and Team Dynamics

(52:31) The Importance of Motivation in Partnerships

(59:23) Overcoming Personal Barriers to Greatness

Jennifer K. Hill is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and thought leader in business and personal development. She co-founded OptiMatch, a platform that helps build high-trust relationships in business, and consults with CEOs to improve team alignment and productivity. Host of the Regarding Consciousness podcast, Jennifer has interviewed global leaders including Dr. Deepak Chopra and Dr. Bruce Lipton. She has authored two books, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Visioneers, and is passionate about giving back, having built two schools in developing countries.

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Connect with Jennifer:

Website: https://jenniferkhill.com/

Survey: https://om.app/survey

Email: jennifer@om.app

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/