The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

300 | Episode 300! How Do You Show Up In the World? Sep 25, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

How do people see you, and more importantly, how do you see yourself?

The way others treat us reflects their perception of us, but how we respond shows how we perceive ourselves. Being able to recognize and own this dynamic is key to building strong relationships - both personal and professional.

Today, I am flying solo for the 300th episode of The Greatness Machine! To celebrate, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on a profound life lesson I recently learned. It is all about how people treat you based on their perception of you, and how your response is a mirror or your self-view. Despite being simple, this concept has the power to transform the way we engage with others and understand ourselves.

In this episode, I explore the deep insights around power dynamics in relationships, the role of curiosity in self-reflection, and how we can better align our actions with the identity we wish to project. Through personal stories and practical wisdom, I challenge you to take stock of how you are showing up in your own life and how to leverage self-awareness for more authentic connections.

Topics include:

Darius talks about the power of perception in how others treat you
The importance of self-awareness and curious responses
Darius shares personal story about setting boundaries in business
The value of authenticity in personal and professional relationships
Darius encourages curiosity about how others perceive you
The crucial role of authenticity in creating leverage and opening opportunities
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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

TGM Classic | Gary Henderson | The Future is Here: How to Leverage NFTs to Build Your Brand and Business Sep 23, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

Gary Henderson, a seasoned digital marketing professional with over 10 years of experience in the industry, has worked with various clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, helping them grow their online presence and achieve their marketing goals. Joining us on The Greatness Machine, Gary shares his deep understanding of the latest digital marketing trends, and techniques, and how to use them to drive results.

In this episode, Darius and Gary talk about digital marketing, building strong client relationships, the rise of digital currencies, and what the future looks like for the creator economy.

Topics include:

How Gary started helping creators monetize their personal brands
Understanding your audience and having a strategic approach to marketing
Building strong client relationships by providing a concierge-style service
Understanding the reasons why people buy
How to get your marketing cut through the noise
The benefits of stepping outside of your comfort zone
What is Gary Coin and how it works
Gary looks back on founding the Giraffe Tower NFT project
What Gary thinks the creator economy looks like in the future
The rise of digital currencies and the ability to operate in a global space around the clock
The benefits of using tokens instead of fiat currency to pay for products and services
And other topics…

Resources mentioned:

Steal Like An Artist: https://www.amazon.com/Steal-Like-Artist-Things-Creative/dp/0761169253

Layered Money: https://www.amazon.com/Layered-Money-Dollars-Bitcoin-Currencies/dp/1736110527

Connect with Gary:

Website: https://gary.club/welcome

Website: https://www.digitalmarketing.org/

LinkedIn: https://pr.linkedin.com/in/garyhenderson

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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

299 | My Tribute to John Ruhlin: Why You Should Be Radically Generous Sep 20, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

What are you doing in your life to pour love into others and make a meaningful impact?

We often focus on our own goals and challenges in the rush of daily life. But what if the key to unlocking true fulfillment and success lies in how we pour love and generosity into those around us?

John Ruhlin, the mastermind behind Giftology, dedicated his life to revolutionizing the way we think about giving. Through his book, Giftology, and his company, Giftology Group, he taught us that gifting is not just about the object itself, but about the thoughtfulness and intention behind it. John’s philosophy emphasized the power of radical generosity to build deeper relationships and create lasting impacts.

In this heartfelt episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius reflects on the profound influence of his late friend and mentor, John Ruhlin. John’s commitment to radical generosity not only transformed Darius’s life but also set a new standard for meaningful connections and impactful giving.

As we remember John’s legacy, Darius encourages listeners to examine their own lives and consider how they can pour love into others through acts of generosity. Join us in celebrating John’s memory and exploring the powerful effects of giving from the heart.

Topics include:

The impact of Giftology and its role in cultivating lasting connections
Darius shares a personal story about John’s thoughtful replacement of a broken gift
The importance of embracing radical generosity
And other topics…

Website: https://giftologygroup.com/

Giftology Book: https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332

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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

298 | Leonard Brody | The Grit Gap: Bridging Generational Differences in a Changing World Sep 18, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

How does the wisdom and resilience of past generations shape our ability to succeed in today's rapidly changing world?

In a world of rapid change and easy access to information, the younger generations often feel disconnected from the resilience forged by their predecessors. This disconnect raises important questions about how we can bridge the gap and keep the lessons of the past in mind as we move forward.

Leonard Brody, a prominent entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author, shares his insights on the challenges faced by today’s generation, the importance of resilience, and the role of entrepreneurs in shaping a better future.

He opens up about his own journey and the ways in which his family’s experiences have shaped his worldview and approach to business. Leonard also discusses how the lack of direct experience with global-scale trauma in younger generations might affect their resilience and perspectives.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Leonard Brody to talk about the modern entrepreneurial landscape and the importance of bridging the gap between economic realities and personal resilience. The conversation touches on the role of entrepreneurs in addressing societal challenges and mitigating the risks of radicalization and economic disenfranchisement.

Topics include:

The profound impact of a knowledgeable mentor on one’s career
Balancing authenticity with reputation management
Leonard reflects on early entrepreneurial challenges
The role of luck and timing in achieving success
Aligning business goals with personal life objectives
Generational differences in worldview between older and younger entrepreneurs
The responsibility of successful entrepreneurs in addressing societal gaps
And other topics…

Connect with Leonard:

Website: https://hellocaravan.com/

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lbrody

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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

TGM Classic | Matt Higgins | Burn the Boats: Toss Plan B Overboard and Unleash Your Full Potential Sep 16, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

How far would you go to achieve your dreams? Are you willing to burn the boats and give it your all to get to where you want to be?

Matt Higgins, an American entrepreneur, author, and Co-Founder and CEO of RSE Ventures, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about how he went from scraping gum off the chairs in a New York City McDonald's to becoming a successful entrepreneur, investor, and media executive.

Despite starting from humble beginnings, his hard work and determination led him to executive positions at major sports organizations, including the New York Jets and the NHL. In fact, Matt drew inspiration from his tough childhood in writing “Burn the Boats: Toss Plan B Overboard and Unleash Your Full Potential.”

In his book, Matt explains how the strategy of fully committing to a goal and eliminating the option of retreat can create a sense of urgency and focus, driving individuals toward achieving their goals. It provides valuable insights and strategies for overcoming fear and uncertainty and taking bold action toward achieving one's goals.

In this episode, Matt and Darius talk about the importance of finding our leverageable assets and using them to our advantage, the principle of compounding, the effects of family caregiving, and a lot more.

Topics include:

Matt explains what the term “burn the boats” means and its origin
What “Burn the Boats” is all about and who it is written for
Finding your leverageable assets and using them to achieve your goals
Matt shares switching from the mayor’s office to law school
The impact of becoming a family caregiver on Matt
Matt looks back on working as press secretary for Mayor Rudy Giuliani
The magic of compounding in achieving professional success
And other topics…

Resource mentioned:

The Power of One More: https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363

Connect with Matt:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-higgins-rse/

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

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Burn-Boats-Overboard-Unleash-Potential/dp/006308886X

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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

Darius Classic | How to Make My Family’s World-Famous Red Spaghetti Sauce Sep 13, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

In this special episode of The Greatness Machine, I embark on a culinary journey with my mom, Susan, who is sharing the cherished family heirloom recipe for her remarkable red sauce pasta. This isn't just another cooking show; it's a heartwarming tale of preserving traditions and passing on a culinary legacy from one generation to another.

Ingredients:

Two 91-ounce cans of Carmelina whole peeled tomatoes
One small tomato paste
One-pound ground turkey
½ of a slab of St. Louis pork ribs
Three bone-in chicken thighs
One medium white onion
Six cloves of garlic
½ a bunch of Italian parsley
Romano cheese (pulverized)
¼ cup of fennel seed
½ teaspoon of red pepper chili flakes
Seven turns of the pepper mill
¼ cup of oregano

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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

297 | David Galbenski | Save A Life by Becoming a Living Donor Sep 11, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

What if you had the power to save a life with just one decision?

Imagine being given the opportunity to offer someone a second chance, to become a lifeline in their darkest hour. This act of generosity goes beyond mere kindness—it is a courageous decision that changes lives.

As the only organ in the human body that can regenerate itself, the liver allows living donors to donate part of their liver while still maintaining their own full liver function.

Joining us on The Greatness Machine is David Galbenski, an individual who has not only embraced this life-saving cause but has dedicated himself to advocating for it. His story is one of inspiration and purpose, and through his efforts with the Living Liver Foundation, David is making a profound impact on countless lives, inspiring others to consider the life-saving potential of becoming a living donor.

In this episode, David takes us through his transformative journey from a successful entrepreneur to a passionate advocate for liver donation. He shares his personal story of becoming a living liver donor, the challenges he faced, and the profound impact it had on his life. We delve into the mission of the Living Liver Foundation, which David founded to raise awareness and support for those considering liver donation. Through candid reflections and powerful insights, David sheds light on the importance of organ donation, the lives it saves, and the enduring legacy of compassion it creates.

Topics include:

David reflects on his pivot from law to entrepreneurship and founding Lumen Legal
The critical role of persistence and passion in entrepreneurial success
Valuable lessons learned from navigating rapid growth and economic downturns
The benefits of adopting an abundance mindset when facing challenges
David highlights the importance of living in the moment
David talks about the inspiration behind starting Living Liver Foundation
Advocating for increased awareness and participation in living organ donation
The significance of mindset in overcoming negativity
And other topics…

Connect with David:

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

Website: https://livingliver.org/

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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Just go to indeed.com/darius right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

TGM Classic | Nyesha Arrington | Manifesting Your Dreams: Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef Co-Host Tells Us How She Did It Sep 09, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if your dreams came true?

What if your dream was to have a TV Show with Gordon Ramsay? What would you do to make it happen?

Nyesha Arrington, an American chef, television star, activist, and entrepreneur, joins us on the Greatness Machine to share her story of figuring out what she wanted to do in life and how she realized her purpose at a very young age.

Nyesha has long admired Gordon Ramsay as a culinary icon and mentor and dreamed of working alongside him, learning from his expertise, and gaining valuable insights into the art of cooking.

Fast forward to 2022, and that dream became a reality when she said yes to joining “Next Level Chef,” where she, Gordon Ramsay, and Richard Blais serve as mentors to the chosen home cooks, social media chefs, and culinary professionals.

In this episode, Darius and Nyesha talk about the keys to achieving goals, the many benefits of doing what you really love, and why it is important to go above and beyond when doing something.

Topics include:

How reverse engineering has helped Nyesha reached her goals
Nyesha looks back at the epiphany moment when she realized her dream
Why Nyesha decided to go on TV
How Nyesha used the power of manifestation to achieve her dreams
The story behind how Nyesha ended up working with Gordon Ramsay
Nyesha explains the premise of “Next Level Chef”
The importance of being an effective communicator
Nyesha describes her death meal
And other topics…

Resource mentioned:

Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain: https://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-Confidential-Adventures-Culinary-Underbelly-ebook/dp/B002UM5BXW

War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Steven-Pressfield-ebook/dp/B007A4SDCG

Grit by Angela Duckworth: https://www.amazon.com/Grit-Passion-Perseverance-Angela-Duckworth/dp/1501111108

Connect with Nyesha:

Website: https://www.nyeshaarrington.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nyeshajoyce

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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Just go to indeed.com/darius right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

Darius Classic | What Are You Attached to That You Are Willing to Let Go Of? Sep 06, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

What do you hold onto tightly? What are the things you find yourself most attached to?

We often find ourselves clinging to certain things, ideas, or identities, developing attachments that shape our perceptions and influence our actions. But have you ever paused to reflect on what exactly you’re attached to? What are the things that hold immense significance in your life?

Today, I am flying solo to reflect on the attachments I used to hold toward titles, power, and respect. I will also shed light on the realization that attachments can both empower and restrict personal growth.

Join me in this captivating episode, where I explore the emotional rollercoaster of success, failure, and the unexpected changes that expose the depth of my attachments. Prepare to delve into the depths of self-reflection and gain valuable insights into the potential limitations and opportunities that arise from our attachments.

Topics include:

Embracing meditation and the positive impact it has on a person’s overall well-being
How my attachment as a CEO and entrepreneur affected my relationships
The importance of releasing attachments and finding true happiness
The value of self-reflection and self-improvement
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

Sponsors:

Indeed - Just go to indeed.com/darius right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast.

Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS.

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

296 | Shahira Marei | The Recipe for Success: How a Mindset of Abundance Baked Dirty Cookie’s Success Sep 04, 2024

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.

What if the recipe for success was a blend of mindset, words, and a pinch of creativity?

Shahira Marei, founder and CEO of Dirty Cookie, reflects on her journey from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance, revealing how this shift not only changed her personal outlook but also fueled the remarkable growth of her business.

Through her unique and innovative company known for its delicious “cookie shots,”Shahira has transformed the cookie experience. Her cookies, presented in edible shot glasses, add a unique twist to traditional treats, making them a popular gift. As a result of her dedication to creating meaningful and unforgettable gifts, Shahira's brand has achieved significant success and recognition.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Shahira Marei to explore her fascinating journey of transforming her mindset and achieving remarkable success with her innovative business, Dirty Cookie. Shahira also explores how a shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance and positivity has played a pivotal role in her entrepreneurial success.

Topics include: