The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

Darius Classic | How To 10X Your Business By Enrolling The Right Person In Your Cause Mar 07, 2025

Show notes

What if you could take your business or idea to the next level and achieve extraordinary success in a short amount of time?

Today, I am flying solo to dive deep into the transformative power of partnerships and how they can help you 10x your cause, business, or idea. Drawing from my personal experience of raising $250 million for Rise Growth Partners, I will share invaluable insights and actionable strategies to unlock success through collaboration.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will talk about partnering for success, providing value to potential partners, and the benefits of seeking external perspectives. This episode will also explain why persistence and building relationships are crucial in enrolling others in your cause and achieving extraordinary results.

Topics include:

The benefits of enrolling the right person to help your cause or business
Forging meaningful connections and partnerships
The effect of providing value to potential partners
And other topics…

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

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

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

339 | Ryan Begelman (Part 1) | The Mayor Effect: How to Dominate Any Niche You Choose Mar 05, 2025

Show notes

Networking is more than just exchanging business cards—it’s about cultivating meaningful, lasting connections that open doors to new opportunities and mutual growth. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Ryan Begelman shares his proven strategies for building relationships with intention, hosting impactful events, and using curiosity to forge deeper connections. He reveals how adding value to every interaction can help you stand out and create a network that fuels both personal and professional success. From practical tips to mindset shifts, this conversation explores how to transform your approach to networking and turn it into a powerful tool for growth and influence.

In this episode, Darius and Ryan will discuss:

(00:00) Ryan Begelman's Background and Early Influences

(02:58) The Journey into Entrepreneurship

(05:54) The Birth of Summit and Bisnow

(08:48) Navigating the Corporate World and Side Hustles

(12:12) Lessons from Early Career Experiences

(14:49) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

(17:58) The Evolution of Summit Series

(29:07) Challenges and Triumphs in Event Planning

(35:32) The Shift from Summit to New Ventures

(46:04) Networking Strategies for Entrepreneurs

(49:32) Inspiring Figures and Lessons Learned

Ryan Begelman is an executive coach, entrepreneur, and investor. As CEO of Bisnow Media, he grew the company from $1 million to $20 million in revenue before its sale in 2016. He co-founded Summit, described by Forbes as “The Davos of Generation Y,” and has invested in startups like Uber, Warby Parker, and Coinbase. A mindfulness practitioner based in NYC, Ryan is passionate about cycling, cooking, and lifelong learning.

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Connect with Ryan:

Website: https://www.ryanbegelman.com/

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

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

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 | Kevin Hines | Hope, Healing, and Resilience: A Path to a Better Life Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

Trigger Warning

This episode discusses self harm and its prevention. It may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know needs help, please seek professional assistance. Listener discretion is advised.

Can a single conversation save a life?

Kevin Hines, a renowned mental health advocate, author, and speaker, has dedicated his life to suicide prevention and promoting mental wellness. He works with organizations, schools, and communities to provide resources and support to those in need.

Drawing from his personal journey, he became a leading voice in the fight against suicide, working tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide. His story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right support, recovery is possible, and every life is worth saving.

In observance of National Suicide Prevention Week, Kevin joins us on The Greatness Machine to talk about his courageous journey from the edge of despair to becoming a global advocate for mental health.

In this episode, Darius and Kevin engage in a profound discussion covering a wide range of topics related to mental health, suicide prevention, and personal resilience. They highlight dispelling misconceptions about suicide, nurturing human connections, and addressing the dangers of excessive screen time and instant gratification culture.

Topics include:

Three miracles that played a crucial role in Kevin’s survival from a suicide attempt
How a passage in Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s book saved Kevin’s life
The importance of taking suicide threats seriously
The significance of dispelling misconceptions about suicide
Why it matters to understand and attend to the needs of loved ones
The erosion of face-to-face communication and its impact on human connections
The dangers of excessive screen time for children’s developing brains
Concerns surrounding instant gratification culture
The importance of addressing suicide prevention at home
Kevin advocates for age restrictions on social media platforms
Why it is important to teach discipline and resilience to children through activities
And other topics…

Connect with Kevin:

Website: https://www.kevinhinesstory.com/

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

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYZeM7MIkXtU_--r9BlDTQA

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

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

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

338 | Loyalty is a Gift Feb 28, 2025

Show notes

Loyalty—do you give it freely, or do you expect it to be earned? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives deep into the complexities of loyalty, sharing a pivotal lesson that reshaped his perspective. From early business partnerships to navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, he explores how loyalty can be both a gift and a test. Tune in for raw insights, personal stories, and a thought-provoking take on what it truly means to stand by those around you.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) The Nature of Loyalty

(02:55) Loyalty as a Gift

(06:12) Lessons from Business Experiences

(11:50) Reframing Expectations of Loyalty

(18:00) Understanding Self-Interest in Relationships

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius.

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.

337 | Paige Mycoskie | Turning Dreams into a Global Lifestyle Fashion Brand Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

After transforming her love for vintage clothing and 1970s surf culture into the globally recognized brand Aviator Nation, Paige Mycoskie has become a symbol of passion-driven entrepreneurship. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Paige shares the story of building a brand that not only celebrates creativity but also fosters a culture of community and adventure. Paige delves into the importance of staying authentic in a fast-paced world, the value of stepping away from technology to spark inspiration, and the lessons she’s learned from her journey as a leader.

In this episode, Darius and Paige will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Background

(02:4) Paige's Origin Story and Early Influences

(06:03) The Birth of Aviator Nation

(09:00) Initial Success and Market Fit

(11:59) Scaling the Business and Production Challenges

(15:05) Leadership Journey and Team Dynamics

(26:54) Embracing Challenges and Team Growth

(28:48) Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

(30:58) The Creative Process and Authenticity

(37:04) Maintaining Company Culture During Growth

(42:45) Finding Your Ikigai

(45:43) Sibling Success: Learning from Each Other

Paige Mycoskie is the founder of Aviator Nation, a 70's-inspired, Made-in-America lifestyle brand with 17 U.S. retail locations and a factory in Los Angeles. Recognized as GQ Magazine's Designer of the Year and a Forbes-featured entrepreneur, Paige combines fashion, music, and philanthropy through partnerships with festivals like SXSW and nonprofits like Charity Water. From hand-sewing her first garments to creating immersive retail experiences, Paige continues to champion American manufacturing and inspire a new era of design and entrepreneurship.

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius.

Connect with Paige:

Website: https://www.aviatornation.com/

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

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-mycoskie-17a9b56

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paigemycoskie/

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 | Ryan Pineda | The Wealthy Way: Don’t Go Broke Trying to Look Rich Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

How can you leverage the power of content creation to not only connect with your audience but also uncover new business opportunities and solve their pressing needs?

Ryan Pineda, a dynamic entrepreneur and content creator, has made waves in the business world with his innovative approach to real estate and digital media. His journey from flipping couches to flipping real estate properties showcases his relentless drive and adaptability.

His story is a testament to the power of adaptation and identifying market demands. Through podcasts, courses, and platforms like WealthyWay.com, Ryan not only connects with his audience but also empowers them to improve their lives.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Ryan explore the importance of purpose and determination in achieving greatness. Ryan's entrepreneurial journey, marked by an "all in" attitude, takes center stage. They discuss his evolution from flipping furniture to real estate, dissect the fear of risk-taking, and stress the value of embracing risks for growth. Ryan also emphasizes the multifaceted nature of wealth, beyond finances, and shares insights on transitioning to the digital world, building a digital presence, and audience engagement.

Topics include:

The value of having a strong sense of purpose and determination when striving for greatness
What pushed Ryan to pursue entrepreneurship and how he started his journey in the field
Ryan explains his “all in” approach to everything he does
How Ryan transitioned from flipping furniture to flipping houses
The common causes of fear of taking risks
Ryan emphasizes the benefits of taking risks and continuously seeking improvement
The importance of wealth in various aspects of life beyond financial wealth
Ryan discusses his transition from the real estate industry to the digital world
The importance of building a digital presence and audience
Understanding the needs and feedback of your audience
And other topics…

Connect with Ryan:

Website: https://www.ryanpineda.com/

Website: https://www.wealthyway.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RyanPineda

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

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

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius.

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

336 | How to Deal with The Worst Case Scenarios in Life Feb 21, 2025

Show notes

What if the key to overcoming fear wasn’t avoiding worst-case scenarios, but facing them head-on with a simple yet powerful mental shift? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and the practice of Premeditatio Malorum—the premeditation of potential misfortunes. He shares a personal story of navigating a high-stress business crisis and how working with a cognitive behavioral therapist led him to the transformative "And Then" exercise. Discover how this mindset shift can help you break free from anxiety, regain control, and embrace resilience in the face of uncertainty.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Exploring Stoicism and Premeditatio Malorum

(11:48) Resilience and the Journey of Starting Over

(18:14) Embracing Risk and the Sweet Juice of Life

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius.

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.

335 | Wayne Hoffman | The Hidden Power of the Mind: What Top Mentalists Don’t Want You to Know Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

What if your mind could be read in an instant, and every thought you had was predicted before you even spoke it? In this episode, Wayne Hoffman, a master mentalist, takes us behind the curtain to explore the mysterious art of reading minds and influencing thoughts. From his groundbreaking performances to his insights into overcoming fear and embracing rejection, Wayne shares how the ability to control perception has shaped his career and personal growth. He also reveals why embracing the word "no" is key to unlocking greatness in both life and business.

In this episode, Darius and Wayne will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Wayne Hoffman

(03:04) Wayne's Origin Story

(05:51) The Journey of a Mentalist

(08:57) The Importance of Passion in Show Business

(11:47) Overcoming Adversity and Naysayers

(15:06) The Power of Collecting No's

(17:54) Setting Specific Goals for Success

(20:48) The Coin Analogy: Yes and No

(24:07) Real-Life Applications of Asking for What You Want

(27:00) Pitching a TV Show: The Process

(29:49) Conclusion and Key Takeaways

(34:03) The Genesis of a New Project

(35:01) The Power of Connections

(36:25) Networking and Its Importance

(39:10) The Art of Mentalism

(40:19) Demonstrating Mentalism

(45:57) Understanding Mentalism Techniques

(52:22) The Future of Mentalism

(54:10) Connecting with Wayne Hoffman

(56:22) Overcoming the Fear of No

Wayne Hoffman is a world-renowned mentalist, award-winning performer, and best-selling author of Mind Candy. Known for his captivating stage shows and keynote speech, The Power and Potential of the Human Mind, Wayne combines mentalism, psychology, and illusions to inspire and entertain audiences globally. His high-energy presentations challenge perceptions and drive personal and professional growth, making him a sought-after speaker and coach for top leaders worldwide.

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius.

Connect with Wayne:

Website: https://waynehoffman.com/

Website: http://conjurorscabinet.com/

Website: http://ilovehoffman.com/

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

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

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 | Dr. Kevin Hoffarth | Redefining Wellness: The Keys to Thriving in Modern Life Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

How can you transform your health, defy conventional wisdom, and embrace a life of vitality and purpose?

Dr. Kevin Hoffarth, founder and owner of BioFIT Medicine, is a distinguished expert in the field of functional medicine and a passionate advocate for optimal health and longevity. With over two decades of experience in the medical field, Dr. Kevin has emerged as a leading figure in redefining traditional healthcare approaches and promoting proactive well-being.

His extensive knowledge spans various aspects of health, including nutrition, hormone replacement therapy, metabolic disorders, and the vital connection between mind and body. Through his book, Functional Medicine: The New Standard, Dr. Kevin provides invaluable insights and practical guidelines to individuals seeking to transform their health.

Joining us on The Greatness Machine, Dr. Kevin talks about his journey of switching from traditional medicine to functional medicine, which was driven by a deep commitment to improving health and providing patients with more effective, comprehensive solutions to their health challenges.

In this episode, Darius and Dr. Kevin explore various topics, including Dr. Kevin’s upbringing in a medical family, his transition from traditional to functional medicine, the founding of BioFit Medicine, challenges faced by doctors, the distinctions between functional and traditional medicine, the importance of healthspan, and the transformative effects of hormone replacement therapy on brain function and overall well-being.

Topics include:

What it was like for Dr. Kevin to grow up with medical influences in his family
What pushed Dr. Kevin to transition from traditional medicine to functional medicine
What inspired Dr. Kevin to establish BioFit Medicine
The most common challenges and limitations doctors face
How functional medicine differs from traditional medicine
The importance of extending healthspan rather than focusing on longevity
The benefits of hormone replacement therapy in both men and women
How hormones affect a person’s brain function, executive functioning, and mood regulation
And other topics…

Connect with Dr. Kevin:

Website: http://www.biofitmedicine.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-hoffarth-md-ifmcp-2829598b

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biofitmedicine/

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

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius.

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

334 | 7 Things Stoics Say You Should Never Do Feb 14, 2025

Show notes

Life is unpredictable, but what if you could face every challenge with unshakable strength and clarity? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and shares seven key lessons from the ancient philosophy, inspired by Ryan Holiday and “The Daily Stoic.” From avoiding unnecessary suffering to breaking free from the victim mindset, Darius unpacks timeless wisdom from Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and more. Tune in for a deep dive into how Stoic principles can help you navigate life with resilience, self-awareness, and purpose.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Stoicism and Personal Journey

(01:27) Seven Stoic Principles for a Better Life

(02:48) The Importance of Not Complaining

(05:14) Avoiding Comparison with Others

(07:37) The Power of Listening

(10:29) Judgment and Empathy

(12:51) Finding Balance and Temperance

(16:45) Energy and Living a Good Life

(18:39) Reflections on Life Experiences

Sponsored by:

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.