The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

442 | Derin McMains | How to Have Competitive Freedom Aug 05, 2026

Show notes

Host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Derin McMains, a former professional baseball player turned elite mental performance coach. Derin spent years building mental performance programs for the San Francisco Giants (three-time World Champions), the Seattle Mariners, and the University of Notre Dame, and currently serves as Director of Mental Performance at global cybersecurity company ReliaQuest. In this wide-ranging conversation on The Greatness Machine, Derin and Darius explore what separates good performers from great ones, the psychology of competitive freedom, the role of spirituality in peak performance, and why mastering the fundamentals is the foundation of elite achievement.

In this episode, Darius and Derin will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Background

(01:57) Derin’s Origin Story and Journey

(04:47) The Search for Competitive Edge

(09:00) Mastery and Normalization in Performance

(15:06) Embodiment and Mental Performance

(20:10) Paths to Unshakable Belief

(24:06) Mental Toughness and Spirituality

(31:45) The Game of Life vs. Real Life

(32:30) Embodiment and Mental Health

(33:57) The Need for Mental Performance Training

(35:27) Intentional Relationships and Self-Selection

(37:39) The Impact of Surroundings on Behavior

(39:19) High Challenge, High Support Dynamics

(41:33) Leadership and Capacity Building

(43:50) Pushing Past Capacity in a Healthy Way

(49:51) Seasons of Life and Intentional Downtime

(54:29) Overcoming Perfectionism

Derin McMains is a leading Mental Performance Coach who works with elite athletes, business executives, and high-performing teams. A former professional baseball player and manager, he has spent more than 14 years developing mental performance programs for organizations including the San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, and the University of Notre Dame. A three-time World Series champion with the Giants, McMains also serves as a mental performance consultant for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Beyond sports, he leads the Mental Performance team at ReliaQuest, where he coaches leaders across four countries, and hosts the No Show Dogs podcast, recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 5 podcasts for Leadership and Wellness.

Connect with Derin:

Website: https://reliaquest.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derin-mcmains-cmpc-09158662

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

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 Begelman (Part 1) | The Mayor Effect: How to Dominate Any Niche You Choose Aug 03, 2026

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.

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.

Darius Classic | The Truth About Inflation Jul 31, 2026

Show notes

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius does a deep dive into the concept of inflation and its effects on the economy, as well as the way it’s calculated, both now and in the past.

In this episode, you'll discover how inflation is truly calculated, how the Consumer Price Index factors in, why understanding inflation requires research... and patience, some of the biggest changes that have happened to the way inflation is calculated and presented.

Join Darius for this fascinating look into a subject we've all heard of, but probably don't understand as well as we'd like: inflation.

Topics include:

How the Consumer Price Index factors into calculating the inflation rate
Why patience and some degree of deep-digging is required to truly get a grasp on inflation as the government presents it
Changes that have been made to the way inflation is calculated over time
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

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

441 | Raj Sisodia | Healing Leaders: 7 Steps to Recovery of Self Jul 29, 2026

Show notes

Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Raj Sisodia, Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Conscious Capitalism Inc. and New York Times bestselling author, to explore the origins of the conscious capitalism movement, the flawed assumptions embedded in modern business education, and Raj's powerful new book “Healing Leaders: 7 Steps to Recovery of Self”. Raj shares his extraordinary personal journey, from a small village in India without electricity to Columbia University and ultimately to co-founding a global movement alongside Whole Foods CEO John Mackey. The conversation spans the philosophy of human nature, the systemic forces working against conscious business, and the deeply personal inner work every leader must do to become truly effective and whole.

In this episode, Darius and Raj will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction

(01:16) Raj Sisodia's Background and Journey

(04:17) The Negative Consequences of Traditional Business Practices

(05:42) The Pillars of Conscious Capitalism

(06:54) The Origin of Conscious Capitalism and Its Founders

(08:33) Challenges in Bringing Consciousness to Finance

(10:35) Understanding Human Nature and Its Role in Business

(13:47) The Wisdom Traditions and Conscious Capitalism

(15:42) Egalitarian Roots and Capitalism's Evolution

(17:01) Leadership and Systemic Change

(18:23) Changing Education and Systemic Beliefs

(22:23) The Current Moment and Future of Conscious Business

(26:01) Power, Virtue, and Leadership at Scale

(31:05) Scaling Conscious Business and Systemic Challenges

(34:38) Personal Transformation and Leadership Healing

(42:13) The Journey of Self-Healing and Inner Work

(48:07) The Seven Steps to Self-Healing and Leadership Recovery

(53:45) Where to Learn More and Final Thoughts

Raj Sisodia is the FEMSA Distinguished University Professor of Conscious Enterprise at Tecnológico de Monterrey and Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Conscious Capitalism Inc. He holds a PhD in Business from Columbia University and is the author of sixteen books, including the New York Times bestseller Conscious Capitalism and Firms of Endearment. A globally recognized thought leader in conscious business and leadership, Raj has advised leading organizations such as IBM, Walmart, Whole Foods Market, Siemens, and AT&T.

Connect with Raj:

Website: https://rajsisodia.com/

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

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 | Paige Mycoskie | Turning Dreams into a Global Lifestyle Fashion Brand Jul 27, 2026

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.

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.

Darius Classic | Are We in a Housing Bubble? Jul 24, 2026

Show notes

Are we in a housing bubble? Could the events of 2008 be happening all over again? These are questions that are being asked by both experts in the housing market and those in the media. The temptation is to assume that history is repeating itself, and the same factors that created the 2008 crash are once again at work.

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius wades into the debate with his own insights on the current housing market. He believes that talk of a 'return to 2008' is simply untrue and shows a lack of understanding of the industry.

In this episode you'll discover:

- How Darius' own experiences working in the mortgage industry in 2008 informs his current views.

- The various elements that contributed to the 2008 housing crash, such as the banking crisis.

- Why the challenges of the current housing market are nothing like the ones seen 15 years ago.

Join Darius as he cuts through the media noise and brings some clarity to this subject.

Enjoy!

What You'll Learn in this Show:

Darius' experience working in the mortgage industry during the 2008 crash.
Some of the factors that, at the time, helped create the crisis.
Why "it's another 2008n housing crisis" represents flawed thinking.
And so much more...

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.

440 | Lea Llovio | The Doc Whisperer: Why Your Healing Depends on Your Thoughts Jul 22, 2026

Show notes

In this enlightening conversation on The Greatness Machine, host Darius sits down with Lea Llovio, private advisor to elite leaders, globally sought-after keynote speaker, and creator of the Conscious Wellness for Conscious Leadership framework. Lea shares her journey from growing up across diverse Los Angeles neighborhoods and working in entertainment, to becoming a trusted advisor to top physicians and high-profile change makers worldwide. The conversation dives deep into the power of thought management, radical self-acceptance, the sacredness of the human body, and why optimizing yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually is the foundation of true greatness, and genuine service to others.

In this episode, Darius and Lea will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Sacred Medicine

(01:29) Lea's Origin Story and Intuition

(04:38) Cultural Diversity and Human Connection

(06:48) The Role of Visibility in Leadership

(10:08) Healing Through Thought Processes

(11:44) Embodiment and Energy Management

(15:41) Reverence for Life and Service

(17:22) The Duality of Human Nature

(20:32) Stalking Your Thoughts for Growth

(28:47) Radical Self-Acceptance and Amusement

(31:36) Understanding Energy and Empathy

(34:54) Cultural and Spiritual Influences

(39:27) The Role of Physicians in Healing

(44:54) The Intersection of Science and Spirituality

Lea Llovio is a Thought Leader, creator of Conscious Wellness™ for Conscious Leadership™, and a globally sought-after keynote speaker who serves as a private advisor to visionary founders, industry-leading doctors, and culture-defining change agents whose decisions shape markets, medicine, and policy. Known as the "Doc Whisperer," she is the person elite leaders turn to when something is blocking their progress or healing and no one else can identify what it is. Lea's work centers on elevating purpose and accelerating healing by helping high achievers dissolve the self-imposed and external interference, mental, emotional, and energetic, that drains their power and distracts from their impact. Her signature framework, Conscious Wellness™ for Conscious Leadership™, integrates Scientific Medicine and Spiritual Medicine into a practical, results-driven approach that helps leaders return to their core and live what she calls the Blessing Way™.

Connect with Lea:

Website: https://leallovio.com/

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

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

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

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 | Wayne Hoffman | The Hidden Power of the Mind: What Top Mentalists Don’t Want You to Know Jul 20, 2026

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.

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.

Darius Classic | How to Make the Unconscious Become Conscious Jul 17, 2026

Show notes

Today, Darius offers up a fascinating discussion around a quote from psychiatrist Carl Jung that has rocked his world and may just change your life as well!

You'll discover the quote that rocked Darius' world and how it could change your life.

You'll learn what happened at his MIT event and some of the amazing people and ideas he encountered there.

You'll also discover the pivotal question he was asked by a former guest that opened up a whole new avenue of thought.

Join Darius as he shares some life-changing ideas from his MIT event.

Topics include:

The quote that rocked Darius' world and how it could change your life
What happened at his MIT event and some of the amazing people and ideas he encountered there
The pivotal question he was asked by a former guest that opened up a whole new avenue of thought.
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

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

439 | Jon Irvine (Part 2) | The Future of Housing: How One Law Could Cut Home Prices in Half Jul 15, 2026

Show notes

In Part 2 of this conversation on The Greatness Machine, host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down again with real estate developer and former mortgage industry executive Jon Irvine to dive deep into America's housing affordability crisis and the groundbreaking California legislation that could reshape how homes are built across the country. Jon shares a pivotal personal moment, selling a modest 2,000 sq ft Beverly Grove home for $3.35 million, that crystallized why younger generations are being priced out of homeownership. From there, the conversation explores California Senate Bill 1123 (SB 1123), a transformative zoning law that could allow developers to build up to 10 homes where only one previously stood, at price points 30–50% below comparable market properties. The episode also touches on the role of AI in streamlining permitting, the lingering impact of the LA wildfires on housing policy, and Jon's ambitious plan to build 500–1,000 homes in the Los Angeles basin over the next three to four years.

In this episode, Darius and Jon will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Recap of Part One

(02:53) The Future of Housing and Home Ownership

(05:47) Transitioning from Lending to Development

(08:12) The Challenges of Affordability in Housing

(11:16) California's New Housing Law: SB 1123

(13:50) Understanding the Housing Shortage Crisis

(16:50) The Transformative Impact of SB 1123

(19:37) Navigating the Development Process

(22:00) The Realities of Building in California

(25:21) Challenges in Real Estate Development

(29:43) Streamlining the Entitlement Process

(32:29) The Impact of SB 1123 on Development

(36:59) Addressing California's Housing Shortage

(42:30) Creating Affordable Housing Solutions

Jon Irvine is the Founder and CEO of Westcove Development, a Southern California real estate development firm specializing in design-forward, small-lot single family homes in high-demand, supply-constrained markets. Drawing on California's evolving housing legislation — including SB 1123 — Westcove manages the full development lifecycle from acquisition and entitlement through construction and sale. Jon brings nearly three decades of senior executive experience in residential finance, having held leadership roles at Change Lending, Banc of California, OneWest Bank (under CEO Steven Mnuchin), and Mr. Cooper/Nationstar, where he led initiatives across capital markets, production, and strategic growth. Through Westcove, he channels deep institutional finance expertise into scalable residential development built to meet California's urgent housing needs.

Connect with Jon:

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Westcove-Development-61572683421911/

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.