The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

263 | Guy Kawasaki | Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference Feb 28, 2024

Show notes

What sets remarkable individuals apart from the rest?

Dive into the heart of this question with Guy Kawasaki, a trailblazer in the realms of entrepreneurship and innovation, as he talks about his newest book Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference.

Combining his 40 years of experience with the wisdom from 200 noteworthy individuals, including luminaries like Jane Goodall and Steve Wozniak, Guy revealed the key qualities that set remarkable individuals apart from the crowd. Through anecdotes and reflections, he highlights the importance of growth, resilience, leadership, and graciousness as foundational elements for achieving remarkable success.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Guy to talk about his experiences at Apple during the Steve Jobs era, recounting the demanding yet transformative nature of working alongside the visionary leader. The conversation transitions to the creative process and grit required to succeed in entrepreneurship, drawing parallels between the processes of writing and entrepreneurship as they relate to endurance and refinement. This episode also underscores the importance of empowering others and making a difference as the essence of greatness, encapsulating the core message of Guy’s newest book Think Remarkable.

Topics include:

Guy reveals what motivated him to pursue a life of wealth and success
Envy as a positive force to achieve greatness and make a difference
Three key traits of remarkable people: growth, grit, grace
The benefits of using success to empower others and make a positive impact
Finding purpose and fulfillment in work
The influence of tough teachers and bosses on one’s personal growth and success
Guy shares insights into the writing process of Think Remarkable
And other topics…

Connect with Guy:

Website: https://guykawasaki.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GuyKawasaki

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

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Remarkable-Paths-Transform-Difference/dp/139424522X

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

TGM Classic | Rene Rodriguez | Amplifying Your Influence As A Leader Feb 26, 2024

Show notes

What is influence, and why do we want to have it?

Influence is so much more than persuasion. The art of influence is having the ability to make an impact and affect how other people behave, think, and make decisions. Those who master the art of influence are often adept at tapping into people's emotions and motivating them to act. To put it simply, influence is the ability to get those around you to act on your ideas.

Rene Rodriguez is often described as “powerful,” “thought-provoking,” and “authentic” by his clients. He has researched and applied behavioral neuroscience as a dynamic keynote speaker, leadership advisor, world-class sales expert, and renowned speaker coach. His book, Amplify Your Influence, became a Wall Street Journal bestseller, earning the second spot.

In this episode, Darius and Rene talk about overcoming rejection and embracing suffering, the power of influence and how to leverage it, and the importance of authenticity in business. Rene also discusses negative bias and why humans give more psychological weight to unpleasant news and information.

Topics include:

Why Rene gave up basketball to become a salesperson at a young age
The value of embracing suffering
Rene shares the story behind his Wall Street Best Seller book, Amplify Your Influence
Understanding the importance of influence
Defining the AMPLIFII Formula and how it works
The 3 P’s of AMPLIFII Formula
Understanding Aristotle’s Rhetorical Triangle to gain maximum influence
Why people are hardwired for negativity
How to leverage core values in influencing others
The secret keys to staying fully authentic in the digital world
And other topics…

Resources Mentioned:

Amplify Your Influence by Rene Rodriguez: https://www.amplifiibook.com/

Connect with Rene:

Website: https://www.meetrene.com/

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

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

262 | The Journey is NOT the WIN Feb 23, 2024

Show notes

Do you feel as if you are stuck on a treadmill, chasing goals without truly experiencing the journey?

We live in a fast-paced, achievement-driven society, and most of us are caught up in the whirlwind of pursuing goals, focusing on the goal rather than enjoying the steps along the way. Oftentimes, we invest all our energy on reaching certain milestones, only to find that satisfaction is fleeting once we have achieved them. But what if there is another way?

Today, I am flying solo to discuss the difference between a goal-oriented mindset and a journey-oriented thinking. Drawing from my personal experiences and insightful reflections, I will unpack the importance of creating optional conditions, living by core values, and setting intentions to cultivate a fulfilling life journey.

This episode of The Greatness Machine will encourage listeners to explore the richness of the journey, finding meaning, and fulfillment in every step taken. I will also highlight the benefits of breaking free from the treadmill of goal-chasing and cultivating a more fulfilling journey.

Topics include:

Creating optimal conditions versus obsessing over goals or outcomes
The importance of living according to core values
The crucial role of setting intentions in achieving personal fulfillment
Why it matters to consistently embody who you strive to be in the world
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

261 | Rebecca Homkes | Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times Feb 21, 2024

Show notes

What can businesses do to not just survive, but thrive in today’s volatile market?

Today’s market is highly volatile, and the winning formula is having not just staying afloat but rather growing in uncertain times. Businesses can achieve this by adopting a proactive and adaptable mindset. Rather than seeking stability in an inherently unpredictable environment, companies must embrace change as a constant and prepare to be able to respond quickly to changing market conditions.

Rebecca Homkes, a high-growth strategy specialist, sheds light on some basic principles and actionable steps to help in navigating the unpredictable landscape of modern markets. Drawing from her extensive experience in strategy consulting, she emphasizes the importance of proactive adaptation for businesses not just to survive but to thrive. Through her newest book, Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times, advocates for a shift from rigid planning to dynamic preparation, where leaders focus on aligning beliefs, testing assumptions, and making strategic choices based on evolving circumstances.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Rebecca to delve into strategies for thriving in today’s volatile market, addressing common misconceptions about uncertainty and offering practical advice for businesses to identify their unique strengths and leverage them to capitalize on emerging opportunities while mitigating risks.

Topics include:

What inspired Rebecca to start her strategy journey
The importance of having an alignment on performance and growth goals
Why it matters for a company to have a clear vision and direction
Having a balance between setting aspirational targets and providing a realistic roadmap
Aligning agility with a clear strategic direction
Rebecca talks about her new book Survive, Reset, Thrive
What it takes for a business to survive through market shocks
The benefits of continuous learning and seeking to improve and adapt
And other topics…

Connect with Rebecca:

Website: https://www.surviveresetthrive.com/

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Reset-Thrive-Implementing-High-Growth/dp/1398607886

LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-homkes

Twitter: https://twitter.com/rebeccahomkes/

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

TGM Classic | Mike McCarthy | How Do You Build an Amazing Legacy Feb 19, 2024

Show notes

What will you leave behind?

Leaving a great legacy is one of the most powerful things you can do in your career and personal life. It's about creating something enduring that has lasting and multi-generational effects. This isn't about how people will remember you; it's about creating something strong enough to make a powerful ripple impact. Mike McCarthy is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and their families increase collaboration and connection and create shared values and goals that will leave a lasting legacy.

Mike McCarthy is a husband, a father, and a serial entrepreneur who has played an integral role in helping Keller Williams become the #1 real estate company in the world. He also spearheads GoBundance Mastermind as the Co-Founder and CEO. Mike co-authored The Tribe of Millionaires, The Miracle Morning for Parents and Families, and its accompanying book, Family Playbook.

In this episode, Darius and Mike discuss the pros and cons of family businesses, the importance of workplace and family core values, the fascinating benefits of living in the present, the downside of hustle culture, and the advantages of abundant thinking.

Topics include:

How Mike became a real estate entrepreneur
What advice Mike would give his younger self
The expense of living in the future
Why mindfulness and being in the present make people happier
How he became a Co-Founder and CEO of GoBundance
How core values promote accountability within GoBundance
Mike shares the story behind co-writing The Miracle Morning for Parents and Familieswith Hal Elrod and wife, Lindsay
What motivated Mike to build FamBundance for families
Mike’s family core values and their definition
The benefits of holding family meetings
And other topics…

Resources Mentioned:

The Miracle Morning: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Parents-Families-Yourself/dp/1942589344/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1662114360&refinements=p_27%3ALindsay+McCarthy&s=books&sr=1-1&text=Lindsay+McCarthy

The Miracle Morning Playbook: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Parents-Families-Playbook/dp/1942589360/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1662114672&refinements=p_27%3ALindsay+McCarthy&s=books&sr=1-2&text=Lindsay+McCarthy

GoBundance

FamBundance

Connect with Mike:

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

Website: www.gomikemccarthy.com

Book: www.miraclemorning.com/pfplaybook

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

260 | Action Organized: Why You Should Take Imperfect Action to Realize Your Dreams Feb 16, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever been in a situation where you were second-guessing yourself because you believed that the right moment to act was yet to come? But what if imperfection was the key to unlocking your full potential?

Today, I am flying solo to share a personal journey and reflect on my post-exit from my company The Money Source (TMS). I will also talk about my collaboration with renowned coach Dr. Jeff Spencer, where I learned a valuable lesson: action is not just about doing something; it’s about how it organizes our thoughts and leads to valuable insights.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will reveal the importance of embracing imperfect action, rather than waiting for the perfect moment, as a catalyst for growth. This discussion will also highlight the importance of adaptability, clarifying goals, balancing priorities, and viewing failures as learning opportunities.

Topics include:

Taking imperfect action versus waiting for the perfect moment or plan
Being open to change and optimizing based on feedback and data
The importance of having clarity on personal and professional goals
Embracing uncertainty and and using failures as learning opportunities
Balancing priorities for a more fulfilling life
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

Episodes with Dr. Jeff Spencer:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/201-jeff-spencer-learning-from-the-coach-of-the/id1555334180?i=1000613647234

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/19-jeff-spencer-pursuit-excellence-towards-winning/id1555334180?i=1000524616706

259 | Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi | COO of Pepsi and Nike President of Retail Tell Us How to Succeed Feb 14, 2024

Show notes

How do successful people navigate their careers, overcome barriers, and strategically position themselves for success?

It is often challenging to navigate the complexities of professional growth when embarking on a successful career path. From shifting industry landscapes to personal and social expectations, professionals face numerous challenges and success in careers is largely determined by how one strategically positions themselves.

Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi, through their book Career Forward: Strategies from Women Who’ve Made It, provide strategic insights to define and achieve career aspirations. Aimed at millennials facing pivotal career decisions, this book highlights the importance of taking calculated risks early in a career to achieve outsized returns.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Grace and Christiana to discuss strategies for crafting a successful career, embracing resilience, and strategically navigating the ever-changing landscape of professional life. They also talk about Grace and Christiana’s upcoming book, Career Forward, set to launch on February 20, 2024.

Topics include:

The importance of leveraging network in finding a writing partner
Christiana highlights the value of having a clear direction or “cardinal direction”
Building professional networks and how it can be beneficial
Path of least resistance vs. intentionality
The concept of building professional equity by consistently demonstrating excellence
The idea of having a “growth stock mentality”
The concept of “operating at the top of your license”
Grace and Christiana talk about the audience for their book Career Forward
The idea of taking asymmetric risks in one’s career
Understanding and advocating for one’s worth in the professional realm
And other topics…

Connect with Grace:

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/39999441.Grace_Puma

Connect with Christiana:

Website: https://www.lovejoyadvisors.com/

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

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

TGM Classic | Nathanael Chawkin | The Art Of Conscious Leadership Feb 12, 2024

Show notes

Unconscious leaders are expert decision-makers and have a clear vision of what they want to achieve regardless of how their decisions or behavior can affect others. They tend to focus on the external environment and are driven by their emotional responses.

Conscious leaders, on the other hand, are those who lead with full awareness, authenticity, intentionality and hold themselves accountable. Rather than focusing on oneself, conscious leadership underlines the purpose of the organization as a whole.

Nathanael Chawkin, founder and CEO of Palæstra Leadership, takes us back to when he learned about conscious leadership and how his parents played a vital role in introducing him to meditation and consciousness. He also talks about his work with Palæstra Leadership, where he specializes in transforming organizational culture by coaching executive dynamics.

In this episode, Darius and Nathanael discuss the impact of conscious leadership in an organization, the benefits of meditation, the differences between spirituality and religion, and it is important for a leader to have a greater purpose.

Topics include:

Nathanael looks back on how he started conscious leadership
How Nathanael started working for the Stagen Leadership Academy
What is conscious leadership, and why it is important
How Nathanael started meditating at a young age
Understanding spirituality and religion
Why it matters to have a higher purpose as a leader
The benefits of higher intelligence in humans
The importance of self-knowledge
Palæstra Leadership and what it offers
Nathanael talks about Awakening Leadership and their upcoming plant medicine retreat in Costa Rica
And other topics…

Resources mentioned:

How To Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan: https://www.amazon.com/Change-Your-Mind-Consciousness-Transcendence/dp/1594204225

Connect with Nathanael:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanael.chawkin/?hl=en

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

Palæstra Leadership: https://www.thepalaestra.com/

Awakening Leadership: https://awakeningleadership.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

258 | How To 10X Your Business By Enrolling The Right Person In Your Cause Feb 09, 2024

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

257 | Ron “Omani” Carson | Living a Wealthy Life: A Journey to True Abundance Feb 07, 2024

Show notes

Ever wondered what it takes to shift from a life of constant striving and grinding to one filled with purpose, balance, and true abundance?

Choosing a life of purpose, balance, and true abundance over a life consumed by relentless striving and grinding is a profound journey of self-discovery. This shift challenges the conventional narrative that success is solely defined by external accomplishments and invites us to reflect on the deeper meaning of fulfillment.

Ron “Omani” Carson, Founder and CEO of Carson Group, talks about his transformative journey that has taken him from a life of relentless work to a place of profound fulfillment and balance. His pursuit for holistic success has opened doors for him to explore unconventional paths, from psychedelic therapy to biohacking, red light therapy, and the transformative power of intentional living.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Ron joins Darius to talk about his personal transformation, highlighting a realization that no financial achievement could bring sustained happiness. The conversation also delves into the importance of living with intention, debunking the myth that grinding through life is necessary sacrifice for success. The discussion extends to mindfulness and the significance of self-care.

Topics include:

What motivated Ron to pursue a career in financial planning
The secret behind the success of Carson Group
The importance of aligning the interests of consumers, employees, and shareholders in a conscious capitalism model
The concept of abundance versus scarcity
Finding and doing what one loves to avoid the myth of paying unnecessary dues
The value of intentional living and aligning actions with a deeper purpose
Overcoming the scarcity mindset by surrounding oneself with the best people
And other topics…

Connect with Ron:

Website: https://www.carsonwealth.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roncarson1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roncarson6/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/rchusker

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