The Greatness Machine

Latest Episodes:

188 | Rick Sapio | The Art of the Exit: Balancing Vision, Opportunity, and Practicality Apr 05, 2023

Show notes

What happens when a company exits?

When a company exits, it means that ownership of the company changes hands, either through a sale or transfer of ownership. The specific details of what happens when a company exits depend on the type of exit and the terms of the agreement.

Having an exit strategy is crucial for any business because it helps the company plan for the future and ensures a smooth transition of ownership. Without a proper exit strategy, a company may be forced to sell under unfavorable terms, or it may be difficult to find a buyer or successor.

Rick Sapio, CEO of Mutual Capital Alliance (MCA), Inc., joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about his entrepreneurial journey and what he aims to achieve in working with private companies.

In this episode, Darius and Rick discuss the importance of building core values and business exit reasons and strategies. Rick also talks about the Exit Concierge Service and what they do to help privately-owned & PE-backed companies through the often grueling and difficult Exit Process.

Topics include:

How Rick’s entrepreneurial journey started
How Rick helps his kids build their values
What they do at Mutual Capital Alliance (MCA)
How the MCA Exit Concierge Service helps companies through the exit process
Differences between strategic and financial buyers
And other topics…

Connect with Rick:

Website: https://mutualcapitalalliance.com/

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

Email: rsapio@mutualcapitalalliance.com

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 | Brian Scudamore | Why You Need to Surround Yourself with the Best People Apr 03, 2023

Show notes

Building and growing a successful business is about more than just having a great idea or product. It's largely about having the right people around you, particularly as you scale. Today's guest discovered this simple truth and is here to share his insights. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Brian Scudamore, a serial entrepreneur probably best known for pioneering the professional junk hauling industry through 1-800-GOT-JUNK.

Since conquering that market, he's gone on to apply his O2E (ordinary to exceptional) formula to the painting and home-detailing industry with Wow 1-Day Painting and Shack Shine. You'll learn exactly what goes into being a so-called "overnight success." You'll discover the one mistake that a great many entrepreneurs make at some point in their journey.

You'll also learn why it's vital to be surrounded by people in your business who share your vision and core values. Join Darius and Brian for this amazing and eye-opening discussion!

Topics include:

The reality of the "overnight success”
One common mistake most entrepreneurs make
The importance of having the right people in business
And other topics...

Connect with Brian:

Website: https://brianscudamore.com/

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

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

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

187 | The World's Most Important Superpower You Can Get RIGHT NOW! Mar 31, 2023

Show notes

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

While the ability to fly or have super strength might be exciting and thrilling, these powers are not necessarily practical or applicable to our everyday lives. So, what could it be?

Reading is often referred to as a superpower because it has the potential to transform our lives in many positive ways. It is an incredible tool that can enable us to access knowledge, gain new perspectives, and open ourselves up to new experiences.

One of the reasons reading is a superpower is that it allows us to learn from others. When we read books, articles, and other written materials, we are exposed to the thoughts, ideas, and experiences of others. We can learn about different cultures, explore new topics, and gain insights into complex concepts.

Today, I am flying solo to talk about what I learned from reading James Altucher’s Skip the Line and how that book made me realize the life-changing benefits of reading. I will also discuss what motivated me to read more and how I actually find time for reading.

Topics include:

The key takeaway Darius got from reading Skip the Line by James Altucher
The life-changing benefits of reading books
How to actually read more books
And other topics…

Resource mentioned:

Skip the Line by James Altucher: https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Line-Experiments-Surprising-Reaching-ebook/dp/B08BLLF3RD

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

186 | James Altucher | Skip the Line: Why the 10,000 Hours Rule is a Myth and How You Can Get Ahead Sooner Mar 29, 2023

Show notes

Why are some people better at certain things than others?

There are many factors that can contribute to why some individuals are naturally better at certain things than others. These factors can include genetics, environmental influences, upbringing, education, and life experiences.

When you become good at something, you start to see the nuances of that skill that beginners may miss. As you gain more experience, you begin to understand the intricacies and subtleties of the task that may have been previously invisible to you.

This increased awareness allows you to see why others struggle with the skill and what they may be doing wrong. You can recognize common mistakes that beginners make, understand why certain techniques are more effective, and identify patterns that lead to success.

Furthermore, being good at something often requires a deep understanding of the underlying principles that govern the skill.

James Altucher, a Top 10 Linkedin Influencer, prolific writer, successful entrepreneur, chess master, and venture capitalist, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about his motivation in writing Skip the Line: The 10,000 Experiments Rule and Other Surprising Advice for Reaching Your Goals.

In this episode, Darius and James dive deep into the pros and cons of having multiple interests and hobbies, the meaning of Idea Sex and how it can be used in all areas of life, and the interesting concept of using conspiracy numbers in choosing the right idea.

Topics include:

How James became an accidental entrepreneur while working for HBO
How to handle multiple interests and hobbies
What motivated James to write his new book Skip the Line
James explains the meaning of Idea Sex
Using conspiracy numbers in choosing the right idea
The concept of plus minus equals
James shares some pieces of advice for podcast creators
And other topics…

Connect with James:

Website: https://jamesaltucher.com/

Website: https://notepd.com/

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

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Line-Experiments-Surprising-Reaching/dp/0062998927

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 | Monique Rhodes | Want A Happier Life? Perhaps It‘s Time To Change Your Mind Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Monique Rhodes, singer/songwriter and mindfulness meditation expert with The 10-minute Mind. She brings her unique insights, calm, cool demeanor, and infectiously positive outlook on the world to this discussion.

You'll learn the value of taking time to truly reevaluate what's serving you and what isn't) during this "slow-down." You'll discover how shifting our habits is vital to shifting our minds.

You'll also learn some team mediation practices you can implement for your organization. Join Darius and Monique for this fun, thoughtful, and inspiring discussion.

Topics include:

Taking time to reevaluate during the "slow-down”
How to shift our habits in order to shift our minds
Team meditation practices you can try
And other topics…

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Connect with Monique:

Website: https://moniquerhodes.com/

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

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

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

185 | Amy Morin | 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do Mar 24, 2023

Show notes

How do you handle tough situations in life?

Building mental strength is a critical aspect of achieving success and living a fulfilling life. It involves developing a mindset that allows you to overcome obstacles and setbacks, and maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity.

It requires a strong sense of self-awareness, which involves understanding your strengths and weaknesses and being willing to take risks and step outside of your comfort zone. This can involve setting realistic goals, practicing self-reflection, and seeking feedback from others.

Amy Morin, editor-in-chief of Verywell Mind, the biggest mental health website in the world, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about her new book, 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do.

In this episode, Darius and Amy talk about the importance of building mental strength to help manage our thoughts and emotions. Amy explains the difference between knowing and doing, and why people often fear solitude and silence.

Topics include:

What changed Amy’s mind about becoming a doctor
What motivated Amy to learn about building mental strength and toughness
The challenges of knowing versus doing
The benefits of having a pros-and-cons list
Amy recalls writing 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do
How to stop dwelling in the past and move on for good
The three parts of mental strength
Ways to stop expecting immediate results
Why people fear the quiet and being alone
Amy talks about The Verywell Mind Podcast
And other topics

Resources mentioned:

The War of Art by: https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/

Connect with Amy:

Website: https://amymorinlcsw.com/

Website: https://www.verywellmind.com/

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

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Things-Mentally-Strong-People-Workbook/dp/0063252236

Podcast: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-verywell-mind-podcast-5113058

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

184 | Giovanni Marsico | Living The Dream: Turning Your Talents And Gifts Into Your Life’s Work Mar 22, 2023

Show notes

What’s stopping you from turning your dreams into reality?

Turning your dreams into reality is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences you can have in life. It is about taking that idea or goal that you've had in your head for so long and making it a tangible, real-life accomplishment. It is about taking the necessary steps to pursue the life you have always wanted.

Making your dream a reality requires organization, flexibility, positivity, and support. By staying focused on your vision, being adaptable in the face of challenges, maintaining a positive attitude, and seeking out support when needed, you can turn your dream into a reality and reach your full potential.

Giovanni Marsico, the founder of Archangel, a community of superhero entrepreneurs, leaders, and game changers, joins us on the Greatness Machine to share his personal story of living his dream and helping others achieve theirs.

In this episode, Darius and Giovanni talk about overcoming the challenges of chasing your dreams, combating imposter syndrome, and the benefits of stepping outside of your comfort zone. Giovanni also reveals the inspiration behind the “Dreamer” documentary, where they tell the story of entrepreneurs who never gave up on their dreams despite the hurdles.

Topics include:

Giovanni recalls the beginning of Archangel Academy
How starting Archangel helped Giovanni cope with depression
Why he initially chose real estate instead of carrying out the idea of Archangel
The challenges of curating an event
Giovanni shares how he succeeded in inviting Gary Vaynerchuk to speak to his first big summit event
Overcoming imposter syndrome
What inspired the “Dreamer” documentary
And other topics…

Connect with Giovanni:

Website: https://archangel.cc/

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

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

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 | Ville and Kristen Jokinen | One Epic Journey, A Lifetime of Experiences Mar 20, 2023

Show notes

Imagine hiking and cycling from the northernmost point in Alaska, all the way down the coast to the southernmost tip of Argentina. Now imagine doing it with no experience, little research and no real plan. It sounds crazy, but today's guests decided to embark on that very adventure and are anxious to share their experiences!

It's a story of incredible revelations, unforgettable encounters (like being six feet from a mother black bear and her cubs!) human connections and lessons learned. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Ville and Kristen Jokinen, a dynamic traveling duo who have made the conscious choice to travel. They've just completed a 20-month, 18,000-mile cycling odyssey from Alaska to Argentina - with zero experience.

You'll learn what sparked the decision to give up their traditional lifestyles and travel the world, often in conditions many of us would find impossible. You'll discover why Ville and Kristen believe that life should be lived without hesitation - it's too short not to chase adventure and discovery. You'll also learn why people with the least to give are often the most generous, while those with wealth tend to be more guarded, and what that says about our society. Join Darius, Ville and Kristen as they discuss their epic journey and the revelations they made along the way!

Topics include:

The many lessons Ville and Kristen learned on their epic cycling journey from Alaska to Argentina
Why we should all strive to live without hesitation and embrace the brevity of life
How people who have more tend to be more guarded, while those with nothing are often the most generous and giving people you'll meet
And other topics…

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