The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

Darius Classic | How to Write and Publish Your First Book - An Inside Look Into How I Wrote My Book The Core Value Equation in 90 Days Nov 24, 2023

Show notes

Is writing a book hard?

Today I’m flying solo to talk about the process of writing my first book, “The Core Value Equation,” where I tackled how core values create the ultimate decision-making engine for an organization that consistently produces spectacular results.

Writing and publishing my own book has been on my bucket list for a long time until I made it happen in 2020. Now, looking back at the experience made me realize that anyone can write and publish their own book. It may sound like a daunting task, but it was personally one of the coolest projects I have ever done.

In this episode, I will be taking you behind the scene on how The Core Value Equation was born. You will also learn several tips on how to write your own book and the challenges and benefits of publishing one.

Here are some of the things I get into:

What pushed me to write The Core Value Equation.
How I started the writing process by dictation.
Why consistency matters in writing a book.
The power of editing in creating and fine-tuning a book.
Why most people write a book.

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

241 | Gay Hendricks | Finding Your Genius Zone: Embracing Your Genius Zone Daily Transformation Nov 22, 2023

Show notes

Ever wondered how to unleash your inner genius and transform your life?

This innate desire to tap into our fullest potential often leads us on a journey of self-discovery, where we explore the depths of our abilities and aspirations.

Renowned psychologist and personal development guru Gay Hendricks has dedicated much of his work to addressing precisely this question. Through his insightful teachings and the concept of the “Zone of Genius,” he guides individuals on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. He believes that within each person lies a unique set of talents, passions, and abilities.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Gay joins Darius to talk about his enlightening journey, reminiscing an “out of Hendricks” moment triggered by an unexpected fall on ice. Gay candidly discusses his personal struggles with obesity, emphasizing the profound impact of conscious food choices on one’s transformation.

The conversation unravels the intricacies of identifying and transforming limiting beliefs, highlighting the pivotal role of openness to learning. Gay also offers insights into cultivating genius and finding your unique “genius zone,” a place where passion and contribution intersect.

Topics include:

Gay looks back experiencing “out of Hendricks” moment after a fall on ice
Gay opens up about his personal struggles with obesity
The importance of choosing actions that align with a deeper sense of consciousness
Gay underlines the transformative power of conscious food choices
Family influence on body image and shame
Gay shares a method of replacing shame with positive affirmations
Family influence and overcoming past conditions
Identifying and transforming limiting beliefs
The significance of being open to learning
Cultivating genius and finding your “genius zone”
Gay details his upcoming book Your Big Leap Year
And other topics…

Connect with Gay:

Website: https://hendricks.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gay-hendricks-195a90

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hendricks.gay/

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

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

This episode is sponsored by Uncommon Goods. Go to uncommongoods.com/greatness to get 15% off your next gift.

TGM Classic | Gina Mollicone-Long | Understanding the Mechanics of the Mind for Engineering Change Nov 20, 2023

Show notes

In today’s show, Darius interviews Gina Mollicone-Long, co-founder of Greatness U, a multinational training, team-building, and personal development company. Gina teaches the mechanics of the mind to help coaches and business leaders get better results faster.

In today’s show, Gina gives us some interesting insights into different mechanistic mind models.

First, she walks us through her “Process of Change”.

A willingness to change is the first step in this evolution. Can you be successful in changing a person with zero willingness? On the flip side, can you stop a person who is hell-bent on change? Listening to this segment of the show will make you realize that change can be turned into an engineered process.

This serves as a good segue to our next topic where we discuss the nuances of NLP or Neuro-Linguistic Programming. You will get some interesting insights into this result-oriented technology which involves the assimilation of your conscious and unconscious thinking.

Another simple but extremely powerful topic that we discuss is the importance of persistence and never-ending practice.

Constant change is exhausting. Failures are exhausting. And those who manage to keep at it despite all the setbacks will surely find success at the end of it all. We all know that there is light at the end of the towel. But, yet, most of us throw in the towel midway and slide into a life of mediocrity. This segment of the show will surely rejuvenate and inspire you all over again.

Other topics discussed in this show include the need to balance art and science, how a crisis brings out the best in us, and dealing with co-workers who see things differently.

Topics include:

Techniques that you can practice to communicate better with people
How to deal with co-workers who see things differently
How to balance art and science
Importance of persistence and continuous learning
And other topics…

Connect with Gina:

Website: https://ginamollicone.com/

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/ginamollicone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gina.mollicone/

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

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

240 | Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 20 (Part 3) Nov 17, 2023

Show notes

Do you find yourself grappling with the idea of exploring various opportunities versus staying committed to a single path for long-term success?

In the third installment of this compelling series, join me as I focus on a crucial lesson: “The game is long, but you need to stay to win it.” Reflecting on my experiences as a CEO and entrepreneur, I discuss the pitfalls of job hopping and share insights on the power of consistency in the world of business and entrepreneurship.

Drawing inspiration from legendary figures like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, known for their long-term thinking, I emphasize the importance of finding the right game to play in your career.

Tune in to uncover the secrets of creating exponential values, seizing opportunities, ang thriving in the long game of business.

Topics include:

The importance of staying committed to a path for long-term success
The value of consistency in personal and professional endeavors
The benefits of staying in a chosen game or industry for an extended period
The importance of aligning one’s personality with the characteristics of a chosen industry
The necessity of continuously learning and adapting to changes in the chosen field
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

239 | Will Guidara | Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect Nov 15, 2023

Show notes

How can we foster a culture of "unreasonable hospitality" and go above and beyond conventional standards to deliver exceptional experiences?

Will Guidara, a distinguished figure in the world of hospitality and fine dining, has not only earned numerous accolades but has also revolutionized the way people perceive dining experiences.

His journey teaches us that creating a culture of "unreasonable hospitality" is all about pushing the boundaries, rewriting the script, and delivering extraordinary experiences. It is a testament to the idea that success transcends ordinary standards and is marked by a relentless commitment to exceeding expectations.

Will is recognized for his role as a co-owner of Eleven Madison Park, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City, which under his leadership, earned the title of the "World's Best Restaurant" in 2017. Beyond his restaurant endeavors, he is a passionate advocate for the 'extra mile' mentality, inspiring individuals and businesses to prioritize people and deliver exceptional experiences.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Will joins Darius to share insights on his inspiration for prioritizing others, drawing from his experiences with Danny Meyer. He underscores the importance of financial management in the restaurant industry and creating a culture of unreasonable hospitality. Will also touches on personal growth, leadership, and lessons learned from pursuing excellence in the culinary world and writing a book.

Topics include:

What inspired Will to embrace the idea of serving and prioritizing others
Will looks back at his experience working with Danny Meyer
Will discusses the importance of managing your finances carefully
Creating a culture of unreasonable hospitality
The importance of owning up to your mistakes and vulnerabilities as a leader
Will talks about their pursuit of becoming the number one restaurant in the world
The importance of separating one's identity from their work
Will shares the lessons he learned while writing a book
And other topics…

Connect with Will:

Website: https://unreasonablehospitality.com/

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wguidara

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

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 | Ben Woodward | How to Claim Victory Over Your Circumstances... by Surrendering Nov 13, 2023

Show notes

Every entrepreneur will experience adversity at one time or another - that's a fact of life. Whether it be business related or personal, how we respond to the presence of these challenges is vital to determining whether we will triumph over them.

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Ben Woodward, speaker, strategist, coach and best-selling author. Ben is no stranger to adversity, having had to send his father to prison, struggle with undiagnosed bipolar disorder and endure a corporate crisis throughout his life. The wisdom he gained from these experiences has been outlined in his book, The Empowerment Paradox.

You'll discover a little of Ben's journey - Moving from New Zealand to the UK with only 50 pounds in his pocket to live with his father - who turned out to be a sex offender who had never been brought to justice.

You'll learn how Ben was forced to confront his father, a process that resulted in a prison sentence and a new perspective on their relationship.

You'll discover how Ben's life has been shaped by undiagnosed bipolar disorder, offering him unique insights into the concept of surrender and becoming a victor over one's circumstances.

Join Darius and Ben for a deeply personal and powerful discussion that will change the way you look at adversity in life and in business.

Topics include:

Ben's journey from living in New Zealand to, at just 22, taking a one-way trip to the UK to live with his father - who he hadn't seen since he was 14
How his father turned out to be a sex offender who had never been brought to justice, and how Ben was forced to testify against his father and send him to prison
How undiagnosed of bipolar disorder has shaped Ben's life and offered him unique insights into the concept of surrender
The importance of becoming the victor over your circumstances, no matter what they may be
And other topics…

Connect with Ben:

Website: http://www.ben-woodward.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BenWoodwardEP

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

238 | Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 20 (Part 2) Nov 10, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever stopped to ponder how the roles you play in life shape your identity and, ultimately, the mark you leave on the world?

How we define our identity is a complex and ever-evolving process. It is not merely a single label or job title, but a multifaceted tapestry of experiences, roles, and characteristics that make us who we are. How we define our identity ultimately shapes our perspective on life, influences our choices, and guides our interactions with the world.

In this second installment of our series, I will draw upon my personal experiences to delve into the concept of identity and its pivotal role in our lives. I will share how I have navigated the intricate landscape of self-discovery, highlighting moments that have shaped my understanding of identity.

Together, we will explore the diverse facets that make up our identities and learn from my experiences how to embrace the complexity of who we are.

Topics include:

What makes up your identity and true essence as a person
Why it matters to explore and invest in other interests and passions beyond your business
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

237 | CL Turner | Negotiating Beyond the Numbers: The Personal Touch in Private Equity Nov 08, 2023

Show notes

Ever wondered how million-dollar deals happen behind closed doors?

CL Turner, III, Founder and Managing Partner of Crescendo Capital Partners, underlines the critical role of building personal connections with founder-owner operators in private equity transactions, making it clear that it is more than just business; it is personal. He explains how the private equity industry goes beyond simply closing deals and focuses on building personal relationships.

Drawing from his own life experiences and the firm’s winning formula, CL reveals their unique strategy at Crescendo Capital Partners of convincing business owners to sell below market rates, offering them a second bite at the apple.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and CL talk about the dynamic world of private equity and the art of thriving in it, highlighting the significance of hard work and determination in becoming a successful figure in the industry. The interview takes an unexpected turn as CL shares his passion for creating music and the joy he finds in serendipitous moments.

Topics include:

What inspired CL to start Crescendo Capital Partners
CL talks about his passion for music and his plans to release songs every year
Transitioning from an intermediary to a principal in the investment world
Why it is important to assess the malleability of founder-operators
CL shares three key elements to succeed in private equity
And other topics…

Connect with CL:

Website: https://crescendocap.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-l-turner-iii-07915a2

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cl.turneriii/

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 | Jeff Schox | From Electric Cars to Patent Law - Finding Your Entrepreneurial Path Nov 06, 2023

Show notes

Leaving an established corporate gig to branch out on your own can seem daunting, and for many, the risk remains too high.

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Jeffrey Schox, general partner at Trucks Venture Capital, and the founder of Schox Patent Group, a boutique patent firm focused on startups. Jeffrey started his career as an engineer on the original electric vehicle at General Motors before becoming a patent attorney for two of the largest patent law firms and eventually founding his own firm.

You'll learn about Jeffrey's unusual background, from following his parents in the automotive industry to eventually striking out on his own as a patent attorney.

You'll discover the power of giving and accepting help, and why passing a potential client to a more-qualified friend resulted in a flood of much-needed business for his struggling new firm.

You'll learn why timing is an essential tool in determining the viability of an investment, whether it be in an invention or a company.

You'll also discover Jeffrey's knack for taking a complicated idea, product, etc. and teasing out the differences to determine its future value.

Join Darius and Jeffrey as they discuss the entrepreneurial path, timing and the power of giving and receiving.

Topics include:

A little of Jeffrey's background, including his work on the original electric car at General Motors and his eventual shift to patent law
How handing over a potential client to a more qualified friend ended up being paid back in spades for his struggling firm
Why an understanding of timing is vital when assessing a company / product to invest your resources in
And other topics…

Connect with Jeff:

Website: https://www.schox.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jschox

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:

.Go to https://incogni.com/greatness and Use code greatness to get an exclusive 60% off on the annual Incogni plan.

236 | Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 20 (Part 1) Nov 03, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever wondered if your quest for short-term gain might be hindering your long-term dreams?

In the pursuit of long-term rewards, taking risks is the compass guiding us through uncharted territory. While risks can be intimidating, they also carry the potential for great rewards. It is the decision to invest in tomorrow, even if it means sacrificing short-term comfort.

In this inaugural episode of a 12-part series, I draw inspiration from a recent presentation I gave at the University of Texas in Austin, where I shared the valuable lessons I wished I had known as a 20-year old entrepreneur.

Today, we are delving into the concept of taking risks, especially in your 20s. I firmly believe that when you are young, it is the perfect time to embrace what I call “asymmetric risk.” Why? Because the lessons you gain from such experience will benefit you for a lifetime.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I encourage listeners to find a balance between short-term goals and long-term vision. This episode sets the stage for an engaging 12-part series exploring valuable life lessons for entrepreneurs of all ages.

Topics include: