The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

195 | How to Build Your Reading Superpower (Part 3) - Set and Hit Your Annual Reading Goal Apr 28, 2023

Show notes

Are you tired of falling short on your reading goal?

If falling short on your reading goal is becoming a recurring pattern, it might be helpful to step back and assess your reading habits and patterns. Are you setting unrealistic goals for yourself? Are you choosing books that don’t capture your interest or challenge you enough?

Today, for the third part of this series on How to Build Your Reading Superpower, I will share some more tips that helped me improve my reading habits. If you are still struggling to finish a book or make progress on your reading goal, then maybe you need to make adjustments and set more attainable goals for yourself.

One helpful strategy to stay motivated and on track with your reading goals is to create a reading schedule or routine. Another way to approach falling short on your reading goal is to see it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Use it as a chance to reflect on your reading preferences, explore new genres or authors, or deepen your understanding of the books you do read.

In this episode, I will share why it is important to go deep and understand the books better if you want to improve your reading superpower. I will also reveal some tips on how to get through books a little faster.

Part 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/189-how-to-build-your-reading-superpower-part-1-read/id1555334180?i=1000607829669

Part 2: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/193-how-to-build-your-reading-superpower-part-2-diversify/id1555334180?i=1000610064076

Topics include:

Setting goals and going deep on books to improve reading
The importance of finding narrators with interesting voices
Taking notes, summarizing chapters, and discussing books with others
Choosing a book you know you can finish in the time frame you set
Finding the best situation that makes you more engaged
And other topics…

Resources mentioned:

The Power of One More:

How Leadership Actually Works:

Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself:

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

194 | Nyesha Arrington | Manifesting Your Dreams: Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef Co-Host Tells Us How She Did It Apr 26, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if your dreams come 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

TGM Classic | Jim McCormick | Understanding the Power of Risk Apr 24, 2023

Show notes

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Jim McCormick, Director of Development at the International Skydiving Museum and Hall of Fame, as well as the founder and president of the Research Institute for Risk Intelligence.

He's a motivational speaker, author, coach, and consultant, helping organizations and individuals improve performance through intelligent risk-taking and the creation of a culture of innovation. In 2006, Jim was part of a team of skydivers representing thirty-five countries that successfully established the current world record by creating the largest skydiving formation ever built in the skies above Udon Thani, Thailand.

The record was set when 400 skydivers, exited five C-130 Hercules military transports flying at 25,000 feet, and linked together into a precisely designed formation in the colors and patterns of the Thai flag. You'll learn about Jim's record-breaking skydiving experience in Thailand and the insights he gained from that experience.

You'll discover how a book on commando training Jim read in grade school got him interested in skydiving. You'll also learn about our unique relationship with risk and how we perceive it, both individually and as a society. Join Darius and Jim for an inspiring and eye-opening discussion on risk and how it affects our lives and our businesses.

Topics include:

Jim's record-breaking skydiving experience in Thailand
How Jim got interested in skydiving in the first place
Our unique relationship with risk and how we perceive it, individually and as a society
And other topics…

Connect with Jim:

Website: http://www.risk-institute.com/en/

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

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

193 | How to Build Your Reading Superpower (Part 2) - Diversify Your Reading Choices Apr 21, 2023

Show notes

Why is it important to read books from different genres?

Each genre offers unique insights and knowledge that can be applied to various aspects of life. Whether it is fiction, non-fiction, biographies, self-help, or any other genre, diversifying your reading choices will help you open yourself up to new and exciting stories that keep you engaged and eager to read more.

In addition, reading books from different genres can help you break out of reading ruts and challenge yourself to read outside of your comfort zone. You may even discover new authors or genres that you would have never explored before, broadening your literary horizons.

Today, I am flying solo for part two of this series on How to Build Your Reading Superpower. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to finish every book you have started. That is what I learned from reading tons of books in the past. So in this episode, I will explain this helpful tip that helped me reached my reading goal last year.

Check out the first part of this series here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/189-how-to-build-your-reading-superpower-read-1-book/id1555334180?i=1000607829669

Topics include:

The importance of reading more than one genre
What books I would recommend others to read
Why it is okay not to finish a book
Helpful tips on reading more books
And other topics…

Resource mentioned:

The Game by Neil Strauss: https://www.amazon.com/Game-Penetrating-Secret-Society-Artists/dp/0060554738

The Surrender Experiment by Michael Alan Singer: https://www.amazon.com/Surrender-Experiment-Journey-Lifes-Perfection/dp/080414110X

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Winning-Creative-Battle-audio-cd/dp/1501260626

Happy Money by Ken Honda: https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Money-Japanese-Making-Peace/dp/1501188372

The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist: https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Money-Reclaiming-Wealth-Resources/dp/039332950X

Richer, Wiser, Happier by William Green: https://www.amazon.com/Richer-Wiser-Happier-Greatest-Investors/dp/1501164856

The Storyteller by Dave Grohl: https://www.amazon.com/Storyteller-Tales-Life-Music/dp/0063076098

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

192 | Hal Elrod | How to Transform Your Life with the Miracle Morning Routine Apr 19, 2023

Show notes

How do you change your life for the better?

Starting your day on the right foot is crucial in setting the tone for the rest of your day. By engaging in positive habits and activities in the morning, you can cultivate a sense of motivation, focus, and energy that can carry you through the day ahead.

By waking up early and engaging in activities such as meditation, exercise, journaling, and reading, you can nourish your mind, body, and soul and set yourself up for success. Whether you are a morning person or not, creating a morning routine that works for you can help you start your day with a positive mindset and a sense of direction, ultimately leading to a more productive and fulfilling life.

Hal Elrod, an international keynote speaker and bestselling author of 14 books, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about the Miracle Morning routine and how it changed his life and the lives of millions of people around the world.

In this episode, Darius and Hal share their personal stories on how the Miracle Morning routine has turned their lives around. They also talk about the importance of visualization and the power of mindset.

Topics include:

What changed in Hal’s life when he started a morning routine
Hal explains the 6-step morning routine using S.A.V.E.R.S.
Helpful tips for waking up early in the morning
The most important part of the visualization
Hal shares a piece of advice for those who want to change their life
And other topics…

Resources mentioned:

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

Connect with Hal Elrod:

Website: https://halelrod.com/

Website: https://miraclemorning.com/

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

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 | Chris Schelling | The Psychology of Investing Apr 17, 2023

Show notes

How do you make your investment choices? What philosophies or beliefs do you rely on to select a suitable investment? Everyone seems to have their own way of determining the answer to those questions, and today's guest is here to provide his own insights!

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Christopher M. Schelling, an educator, Director of Alternative Investments for Venturi Private Wealth, and the author of "Better Than Alpha." He holds degrees in psychology, business, and finance and is an expert at incorporating insights from behavioral finance into investment decision-making.

You'll learn how Chris made his way into the world of finance after receiving a degree in psychology, as well as a primer on the various philosophies people use to choose funds. You'll discover the differences between stocks and "alternative" investments (hedge funds, private equity, private real estate, etc.) You'll also learn about the ins and outs of private equities. Join Darius and Chris as they discuss everything you need to know about investing, stocks, funds, and so much more!

Topics include:

A little of Chris' background and the different philosophies that go into investing in funds
Stock market investments vs. alternative investments
The ins and outs of private and public equities
And other topics…

Connect with Chris:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-schelling/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/schelling_chris

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

191 | Devin Johnson | Trading Kicks for Code: How to Use LinkedIn to Generate Leads and Hire Top Talents Apr 14, 2023

Show notes

How can you turn LinkedIn into a money-making machine?

In today's digital age, LinkedIn has emerged as a powerful platform for networking, job searching, and professional growth. However, many are still unaware of its potential as a money-making tool.

By leveraging LinkedIn’s features and building a strong online presence, you can tap into lucrative opportunities and use the platform to help you grow your business.

Devin Johnson, CEO and Co-Founder of Kennected, a company that provides SaaS-based marketing services with a focus on automating the prospect and outreach process, joins us on the Greatness Machine to take us into his entrepreneurial journey from selling sneakers and making over $100,000 to founding a SaaS startup that now makes $15 million per year.

In this episode, Darius and Devin dive deeper into entrepreneurship, lead generation, marketing, and sales. They also talk about the importance of having the right mindset and knowing what you really want to achieve success.

Topics include:

How and why Devin started selling sneakers at a young age
Why Devin decided to distance himself from his family to find himself
Devin looks back on founding Kennected in 2018
The primary growth driver of the Kennected product
How to generate leads and sales on LinkedIn
Devin explains Kennected subscription and implementation pricing
The number one issue most businesses encounter
And other topics…

Resources mentioned:

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

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

Connect with Devin:

Website: https://kennected.io/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-title-necessary/id1677020306?ign-itscg=30200&ign-itsct=podtail_podcasts

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

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

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

190 | Rand Stagen | The Future of Leadership: A Deep Dive into Conscious Leadership Apr 12, 2023

Show notes

What makes conscious leaders different and more effective?

Conscious leadership is a leadership style that prioritizes self-awareness, emotional intelligence, purpose, and compassion. Unlike traditional leadership styles that focus on power and control, conscious leaders aim to create a positive impact on their organizations, communities, and the world at large.

Conscious leaders make decisions with mindfulness and consideration for all stakeholders involved. They listen to their intuition and take into account the impact of their decisions on everyone involved, including the broader community. They also prioritize building a culture of trust, transparency, and psychological safety, where team members feel valued, heard, and supported.

Rand Stagen, CEO of the Stagen Leadership Academy, joins us on the Greatness Machine for the second time around to talk about leadership and the importance of having great leaders to move forward.

In this episode, Darius and Rand discuss conscious leadership, the benefits of seeing struggles as opportunities, and how fear can affect good leadership.

Topics include:

The birth of Stagen Leadership Academy started in 1999
How great leadership keeps people moving forward
Overcoming fear to become an effective leader
The use of gender pronouns in the workplace
The importance of seeing your hardships as gifts
And other topics…

Connect with Rand:

Website: https://stagen.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rand-stagen-3398b/

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

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 | Yanik Silver | Don‘t Hit Snooze On Your Cosmic Alarm Clock Apr 10, 2023

Show notes

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Cosmic Catalyst, Maverick Mischief-maker and Galactic Goofball Yanik Silver. He's redefining how business is done in the 21st century, and he's doing so at the intersection of evolutionary growth, impact and fun.

You'll discover the path Yanik took to becoming an entrepreneur. You'll learn the benefits of removing our attachment to results. You'll also discover how Yanik's Cosmic Journal came into existence. Join Darius and Yanik for this wide-ranging, fun and inspiring discussion on growth and answering the "cosmic alarm clock!"

Topics include:

Yanik's path to becoming an entrepreneur
The benefits of removing our attachment to results
How Yanik started his Cosmic Journal
And other topics…

Connect with Yanik:

Website: https://yaniksilver.com/

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

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

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

189 | How to Build Your Reading Superpower (Part 1) - Read 1 Book Per Week Apr 07, 2023

Show notes

How do you find time to read when you’re extremely busy?

Reading one book per week is an achievable goal that can lead to significant benefits. By committing to reading consistently, you can expand your knowledge, improve your focus, and enhance your critical thinking abilities. This reading habit can also improve your vocabulary and writing skills, which can be beneficial in various aspects of life.

Additionally, exploring different genres and topics can broaden your perspective and help you see the world in new ways. If you're having trouble reading regularly, start with shorter books or audiobooks, and gradually build up your reading stamina. However, it's important to remember that the quality of the reading experience is more important than the number of books you read.

Today, I am flying solo to kick off the series How to Build Your Reading Superpower. In this episode, I will share a few tips on how I manage to read books despite my busy schedule. I will also talk about some of the books that helped me improve my mindset and lifestyle.

Check out the previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/187-the-worlds-most-important-superpower-you-can-get/id1555334180?i=1000606724968

Topics include: