Look for any podcast host, guest or anyone
Showing episodes and shows of

Darius Mirshahzadeh

Shows

The Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine364 | Eric Jorgenson (Part 2) | Why Some Stories Stick Forever—and How to Craft Ones That DoWhat does it take for an idea to stand the test of time and shape generations? In this episode, Eric Jorgenson returns on The Greatness Machine to explore the enduring power of timeless ideas and transformative storytelling. Joining host Darius Mirshahzadeh, they dive into what makes certain books iconic and how mystics like Rumi and Jesus continue to influence modern philosophy. The conversation touches on Peter Thiel’s strategic takedown of Gawker and its broader implications for media. They also discuss Ryan Holiday’s approach to reviving Stoicism for today’s audience and challenge the no...2025-06-251h 21The Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine363 | How to Bring Your Core Values to Life in Your CompanyWhat if your core values weren’t just words on a wall—but the driving force behind every decision, meeting, and moment of accountability? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into practical, powerful ways to bring core values to life—turning them into living, breathing parts of your team’s daily rhythms. From family meetings to executive sessions, he shares the strategies he’s used to help over 50 organizations make their values matter—and how you can do the same in your business and life. If you want to build a culture where values drive action...2025-06-2020 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine362 | Elsa Moreck | How to Attract What You Truly Want in RelationshipsWhat if everything you’ve been taught about dating is only half the story? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by dating and relationship coach Elsa Moreck for a powerful deep dive into the psychology of attraction, emotional intelligence, and modern masculinity. Together, they explore what it means to be truly self-aware in your relationships, how to break free from toxic dating patterns, and why your energy speaks louder than words. Elsa shares practical insights on building trust, creating emotional safety, and tapping into your au...2025-06-181h 10The Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine361 | Who Do I Want to Be in the WorldWhat if the secret to a better life is simply choosing people and habits that calm your nervous system? In this deeply personal solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh opens up about a recent experience that forced him to slow down and re-evaluate what truly matters. After facing some unexpected health challenges, he found clarity in reconnecting with meditation, breathwork, and the power of aligned energy. Tune in as Darius shares insights on how to create space for stillness, prioritize meaningful relationships, and stay anchored in the things that bring long-term fulfillment.2025-06-1331 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine360 | Robert Edward Grant | Leveraging Your Sacred Mystical Power to Create GreatnessWhat if everything we believed was limiting us… is actually the key to unlocking our full potential? In this fascinating episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by polymath and visionary thinker Robert Edward Grant for a deep dive into consciousness, human potential, and the illusions that keep us stuck. From the telepathic abilities of children with autism to the duality of light and darkness within us all, Robert challenges conventional thinking and invites us into a conversation about radical authenticity, spiritual awakening, and the physics of the soul. ...2025-06-111h 03The Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Investing 101: How Entrepreneurs Should Approach Investing DifferentlyEver wondered how exiting a successful business can turn your financial world upside down? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I am flying solo to share some hard-earned lessons from my own journey through entrepreneurship and investing.  I dive into the unexpected challenges that hit after you exit a business and how they can impact your financial future. After my own business exit, I faced a critical realization: just because you are great at making money does not mean you are automatically skilled at managing it. I will a...2025-06-0626 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The World’s Greatest Word: NOEver wonder why some of the most successful people seem unfazed by rejection? Today I am flying solo to talk about the concept of “collecting nos” – a powerful mindset shift that can transform how you can approach challenges and opportunities. Discover why every “no” is a valuable step towards a “yes” and how it can fuel your growth and resilience.  This episode of The Greatness Machine will highlight the importance of seeking out rejection as a sign that you are pushing the limits of your comfort zone and striving for more. Join...2025-05-3017 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | What Advice Would PAST You Give to You TODAY?Did you ever wish you could go back in time and get some advice from your younger self? We can all relate to this sentiment, prompting reflection on the paths we have taken and the wisdom we have gained. Today, I am flying solo to unpack the profound implications of seeking guidance from our past selves. Drawing from my personal experiences and the wisdom of others, I will discuss the complexities of emotional intelligence and decision-making. This episode of The Greatness Machine will also...2025-05-2323 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Build Your Relationship Balance SheetAre your relationships lifting you up or weighing you down? Today, I am flying solo to illustrate how positive relationships can make a big difference in life.  Drawing from my own experiences and insights, this episode prompts listeners to consider the true value of the relationships they nurture. Just as assets contribute to financial prosperity, positive relationships propel us forward on our journey towards greatness. Similarly, liabilities–such as toxic friendships, draining business partnerships, or unsupportive environments–impede progress and hinder personal development.  This episod...2025-05-1620 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Bigger Conversations = Bigger SuccessDo you ever think about how the conversations you engage in affect the trajectory of your life? Each interaction leaves an indelible mark on our journey, shaping our perspectives, decisions, and ultimately, our trajectory. We shape our paths towards personal and professional fulfillment in a profound way by the quality and content of our dialogues, whether it is sharing insights with colleagues, seeking guidance from mentors, or sharing heartfelt conversations with loved ones.  Today, I am flying solo to navigate the intricate web of conversations, unveiling their significance in shaping our destinies. I will also h...2025-05-0916 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine354 | Top 4 Things I Learned During My 46th Year On EarthLife doesn’t always shout its lessons—sometimes it whispers them in moments you almost miss. In this special solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh unpacks four hard-earned lessons from a year marked by deep personal transformation. Stepping away from the polished highlight reel, he explores the quieter, in-between moments where lasting growth often begins. Through honest reflection and lived experience, Darius dives into themes of clarity, surrender, and identity—offering a raw look at what it means to truly do the inner work. This episode invites you to pause, reflect, and consider what life might...2025-05-0224 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine351 | How I Became a Happy Person (Part 2)What does true happiness look like when you're at the top of your game? In this powerful solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh picks up where he left off in Part 1, sharing the next chapter of his journey to becoming a happier person. From a transformative week in Oaxaca, Mexico, to discovering “Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself” by Dr. Joe Dispenza, Darius dives into how he began rewiring his emotional state, embracing joy, presence, and gratitude—and how meditation helped him break free from fear. Don’t miss this deeply personal and insp...2025-04-2527 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine349 | How I Became a Happy Person (Part 1)Sometimes, the greatest breakthroughs come not in moments of triumph, but in the quiet unraveling of everything we thought we had figured out. In this powerful solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh takes us deep into a personal journey that reshaped his life. For the first time, Darius opens up about a transformative moment in the summer of 2022—when he confronted a lifelong battle with anxiety head-on during a 30-day stay in Oaxaca, Mexico. Despite achieving financial success and building a dream life, Darius found himself overwhelmed by...2025-04-1827 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine347 | My #1 Advice for Building a Dream Client ListWhat if the key to unlocking your biggest opportunities wasn’t in the size of your audience—but in the conversations you choose to have? In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh pulls back the curtain on one of his best-kept secrets: how to use a podcast to build powerful relationships, expand your network, and land your dream clients—without chasing downloads or going viral. He shares the origin story of The Greatness Machine, how it began as a live stream for a book launch, and why focusing on who you interview matters more than how ma...2025-04-1124 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The Journey is NOT the GOALDo 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...2025-04-0417 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine344 | 11 Things To Do To Live Your Best LifeWhat if the secret to a fulfilled life was as simple as following a set of care instructions — not for a product, but for yourself? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh shares powerful reflections on what it means to care for yourself and live wholeheartedly. Inspired by a simple yet profound list of "care instructions for humans," Darius dives into the importance of self-love, growth, and surrounding yourself with people who bring joy and inspiration. From embracing vulnerability and trusting yourself to dancing like no one's watching, this episode is a heartfelt reminder to nurture yo...2025-03-2823 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Action Organized: Why You Should Take Imperfect Action to Realize Your DreamsHave 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 le...2025-03-2121 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine341 | Where Your Attention Goes Your Energy FlowsEver feel like your life is overflowing—with tasks, possessions, or even relationships? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh unpacks a game-changing lesson from Dandapani, a Hindu priest and former monk, on attention management and the true cost of clutter. From cleaning out his closet to evaluating friendships and business ventures, Darius shares how simplifying life leads to greater focus, less stress, and smarter decisions. If you’re feeling stretched too thin, this episode is your wake-up call! In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) The Power of Attention Management 2025-03-1426 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How To 10X Your Business By Enrolling The Right Person In Your CauseWhat 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...2025-03-0722 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine338 | Loyalty is a GiftLoyalty—do you give it freely, or do you expect it to be earned? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives deep into the complexities of loyalty, sharing a pivotal lesson that reshaped his perspective. From early business partnerships to navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, he explores how loyalty can be both a gift and a test. Tune in for raw insights, personal stories, and a thought-provoking take on what it truly means to stand by those around you. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) The Na...2025-02-2826 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine336 | How to Deal with The Worst Case Scenarios in LifeWhat if the key to overcoming fear wasn’t avoiding worst-case scenarios, but facing them head-on with a simple yet powerful mental shift? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and the practice of Premeditatio Malorum—the premeditation of potential misfortunes. He shares a personal story of navigating a high-stress business crisis and how working with a cognitive behavioral therapist led him to the transformative "And Then" exercise. Discover how this mindset shift can help you break free from anxiety, regain control, and embrace resilience in the face of uncertainty. 2025-02-2127 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine334 | 7 Things Stoics Say You Should Never DoLife is unpredictable, but what if you could face every challenge with unshakable strength and clarity? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and shares seven key lessons from the ancient philosophy, inspired by Ryan Holiday and “The Daily Stoic.” From avoiding unnecessary suffering to breaking free from the victim mindset, Darius unpacks timeless wisdom from Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and more. Tune in for a deep dive into how Stoic principles can help you navigate life with resilience, self-awareness, and purpose. In this episode, Darius will discuss: 2025-02-1427 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine332 | The Stoics Response to AnxietyIn a world filled with distractions and endless desires, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But what if the answers to living a more meaningful life were already written in ancient wisdom? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh delves deep into the teachings of Stoicism and how they can help us live with intention and purpose. Drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of figures like Marcus Aurelius, he shares insights on how to reduce anxiety, focus on what truly matters, and show up as the best version of...2025-02-0728 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Are You A Success or A Failure?Have you ever experienced a moment where success brought praise and recognition, only to find yourself alone when faced with failure? Today, I am flying solo to delve into a profound quote that encapsulates the essence of these contrasting moments: “Success has many fathers, failure is an orphan.” Drawing from my entrepreneurial journey, I will dive deep into the dynamics of success, failure, and the impact these have on personal identity. In this episode, I will embark on a personal narrative, recounting the highs and lows of starting a mort...2025-01-3120 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine329 | How to Play Big - A Tribute to Rick SapioIn a world of few true visionaries, Darius Mirshahzadeh honors the life of Rick Sapio, a man who redefined living with purpose and passion. In this heartfelt episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius celebrates Rick’s legacy as a mentor, entrepreneur, and founder of the Gathering of Titans at MIT. Rick’s humor, resilience, and commitment to growth shaped Darius’s life and teachings, encouraging others to play big, take risks, and live by core values. Even in the face of terminal illness, Rick’s unwavering courage continues to inspire. Darius challenges listeners to reflect on whether they, too, are embr...2025-01-2426 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Find Your IkigaiWhat is something that gives you a sense of purpose and a reason for living it?Whether it is a career path, a creative pursuit, a commitment to a cause, or nurturing meaningful relationships, purpose serves as a driving force that gives you a reason for living. Similarly, the Japanese concept of Ikigai offers a comprehensive perspective on discovering one’s purpose in life.Essentially, Ikigai is the convergence of four core elements; what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be p...2025-01-1717 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Would You Trade Your Life For Someone Else’s Life?In the grand theater of life, each of us has our own script. But how often do we find ourselves peeking at the script of others, wondering if their lines are better written?In a world that often values success, happiness, and fulfillment as measurable commodities, the tendency to measure our own worth against the apparent achievements and joys of others becomes all too common.What we often fail to recognize in the midst of comparison is that every individual’s journey is unique, marked by a complex interplay of...2025-01-1015 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine325 | Top Lessons I Learned in 2024In a year of profound challenges and personal growth, Darius Mirshahzadeh takes a moment to reflect on the invaluable lessons learned and the power of resilience. In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, he dives into the importance of embracing life's preciousness, and the role rituals play in grounding us during uncertain times. Darius explores the friction we often encounter within ourselves, how it can lead to self-deception, and the reality that goals and dreams come with their own set of obstacles. He discusses the concept of humility, the Dunning-Kruger effect, and why it is vital to approach...2025-01-0330 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine323 | The Ho'oponopono Prayer - Improve all Your Relationships with this PrayerIn a fast-paced world driven by ambition and endless to-do lists, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters. In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives deep into the power of forgiveness, gratitude, and living with intention. Sharing personal reflections, Darius introduces the transformative practice of the Ho’oponopono prayer—an ancient Hawaiian practice for forgiveness and reconciliation that fosters healing and inner peace. He explores how aligning our actions with our values can create meaningful impact and how embracing vulnerability allows us to show up fully for ourselves and others.In this...2024-12-2727 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 20 (Part 3)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 Buff...2024-12-2021 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 20 (Part 2)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...2024-12-1321 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 20 (Part 1)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 l...2024-12-0621 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine318 | The Currency of VulnerabilityIn a world where we are pressured to put up walls, learning to be truly open can transform our relationships, fuel personal growth, and even shift how we view ourselves. In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh explores the powerful role vulnerability plays in building trust, forging real connections, and living authentically. Through personal stories and moments of self-reflection, he reveals how embracing vulnerability allows us to show up more fully—both for ourselves and others. He also delves into the difference between "scuba divers" and "snorkelers" when it comes to connection, offering valuable insights on how to balance authenticity wi...2024-11-2927 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine317 | JP Newman | How to Turn Purpose into ProfitCan a business truly thrive when its purpose extends beyond profit?In a world where success is often measured by financial gains, it is easy to forget that thriving is not just about the numbers. True growth comes when businesses align their goals with a purpose that resonates beyond profit or when their work fuels something bigger than themselves. JP Newman embraces this mindset. As a real estate entrepreneur and founder of Thrive FP, JP believes that businesses can be both profitable and purposeful. His real estate firm is d...2024-11-271h 20The Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | What Does Success Look Like After Starting 21 BusinessesEver wondered what the path to success looks like after launching a string of business ventures?Today I am flying solo to look back and take you through how I started my entrepreneurial journey with a candy business that my brother and I launched in fourth grade, converting a one-pound block of chocolate into a lucrative enterprise. Over the years, I have initiated or invested in 21 businesses, resulting in $46.272 million in investments and generating over $1.4 billion in revenue, adjusted for today's values. After years of venturing into business, I h...2024-11-0119 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine300 | Episode 300! How Do You Show Up In the World?This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.How do people see you, and more importantly, how do you see yourself?The way others treat us reflects their perception of us, but how we respond shows how we perceive ourselves. Being able to recognize and own this dynamic is key to building strong relationships - both personal and professional.Today, I am flying solo for the 300th...2024-09-2521 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine299 | My Tribute to John Ruhlin: Why You Should Be Radically GenerousThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.What are you doing in your life to pour love into others and make a meaningful impact?We often focus on our own goals and challenges in the rush of daily life. But what if the key to unlocking true fulfillment and success lies in how we pour love and generosity into those around us?John Ruhlin, the mastermind...2024-09-2020 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Make My Family’s World-Famous Red Spaghetti SauceThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.In this special episode of The Greatness Machine, I embark on a culinary journey with my mom, Susan, who is sharing the cherished family heirloom recipe for her remarkable red sauce pasta. This isn't just another cooking show; it's a heartwarming tale of preserving traditions and passing on a culinary legacy from one generation to another.Ingredients: Two 91-ounce cans of Carmelina whole...2024-09-1329 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | What Are You Attached to That You Are Willing to Let Go Of?This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.What do you hold onto tightly? What are the things you find yourself most attached to?We often find ourselves clinging to certain things, ideas, or identities, developing attachments that shape our perceptions and influence our actions. But have you ever paused to reflect on what exactly you’re attached to? What are the things that hold immense significance in your life?2024-09-0615 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Live a Fearless LifeThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self.How can one break free from fear and live a fearless life?Fear has a remarkable ability to hold us back, trapping us within the confines of our comfort zones. But what if we could break free from the shackles of fear and live a truly fearless life? Imagine the possibilities that would unfold if we could face challenges head-on, pursue our dreams with...2024-08-3017 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Design the Perfect DayWhat does your perfect day look like?Imagine a day where work is not a burden but a fulfilling pursuit. You engage in meaningful tasks that bring you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Whether you are pursuing a career you love or making a difference in your own business, your work feels like an extension of your passions.But it’s not all about work. Your perfect day includes time for self-care and well-being. You prioritize your physical and mental health, engaging in activities that rejuvenate and energize yo...2024-08-1614 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Lessons From Jack Welch - What Every CEO and Leader Needs to Hear TodayAre you building a championship team or a recipe for failure?Jack Welch, the legendary business executive and former CEO of General Electric (GE), understood the critical importance of people and values in building successful organizations. He believed that the key to a thriving company lies in having the right people who not only possess the necessary skills and competencies but also align with the core values of the organization.For Jack, there is no middle ground when it comes to values. In fact, he emphasized that competency in...2024-08-0920 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Part 1: Top 4 Things I Learned In My 44th Year On EarthIs it really possible to achieve more by doing less?In the pursuit of doing more, we often find ourselves entangled in a labyrinth of busyness, where productivity becomes a mere illusion. We chase after every opportunity that comes knocking, and our plates overflow, spilling over with commitments and aspirations, leaving us no room to savor life’s simple pleasures.But amidst this flurry of constant motion, we fail to realize that doing more doesn’t always equate to achieving more. In fact, that is one of the things I le...2024-08-0217 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How To Get Off The Hedonic TreadmillAre you running on the hedonic treadmill?The hedonic treadmill refers to the phenomenon where people's expectations and desires for pleasure and happiness increase over time, but their actual level of happiness and satisfaction remains relatively constant. In other words, people constantly strive for more and more pleasure and happiness, but they never really reach a state of lasting satisfaction or contentment.Getting off the hedonic treadmill can be achieved by changing one's mindset and approach to life, focusing on things that provide deeper meaning and fulfillment rather than...2024-07-2620 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Build Your Reading Superpower (Part 3) - Set and Hit Your Annual Reading GoalAre 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 st...2024-07-1922 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine288 | Darius Foroux | The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring ProsperityIn our pursuit of wealth, what lessons can we learn from stoicism?Darius Foroux, an investor, entrepreneur, blogger, podcast host, and writer, examines how to achieve lasting wealth and personal fulfillment by exploring stoicism's timeless wisdom. His newest book, The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity, serves as a practical guide for integrating stoic principles into financial strategies.Rather than placing a heavy emphasis on external circumstances, Darius Foroux emphasizes the importance of emotional mastery in wealth-building. Through stoic teachings, he highlights moderation, gratitude, and meaningful...2024-07-1755 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic l How to Build Your Reading Superpower (Part 2) - Diversify Your Reading ChoicesWhy 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 d...2024-07-1222 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Build Your Reading Superpower (Part 1) - Read 1 Book Per WeekHow 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 rea...2024-07-0523 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The World's Most Important Superpower You Can Get RIGHT NOW!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....2024-06-2816 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Show Up to Become The Best Version of YOUAre you showing up?Showing up for yourself is crucial for personal growth, self-awareness, and well-being. It means prioritizing your needs, desires, and goals, and taking intentional actions toward them. When you show up for yourself, you acknowledge your worth, and you create a foundation of self-love and self-respect. It also means taking responsibility for your life, and not relying on others to fulfill your needs or make you happy. By showing up for yourself, you cultivate a sense of empowerment and agency, and you become more resilient and a...2024-06-2119 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | My Miracle Morning Routine - How I Went From Being A Night Owl To Waking Up Before 5:30 AM And Having An Amazing Morning RoutineIs it true that maintaining a habit of going to bed and waking up early can result in good health, wealth, and wisdom?Waking up early can be a powerful tool to boost productivity throughout the day. By starting your day earlier, you give yourself extra time to accomplish important tasks, prioritize your to-do list, and set a positive tone for the rest of the day.One of the key benefits of waking up early for productivity is that it allows you to establish a routine. When you wake...2024-06-0727 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Overcome Resistance to Create GreatnessHow can you overcome resistance to change?Overcoming resistance is often a key factor in achieving greatness, whether that means excelling in your career, creating a work of art, or achieving a personal goal. Resistance can take many forms, such as self-doubt, fear of failure, or a lack of motivation. However, by recognizing and overcoming these obstacles, you can tap into your full potential and create something truly great.One of the keys to overcoming resistance is to develop a growth mindset. This means embracing challenges and setbacks as...2024-05-3129 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Why Loyalty Is A Gift You Should NOT ExpectWhy is the loyalty of others such a blessing?Loyalty can be seen as a gift in the sense that it is something that is given freely, without expecting anything in return. It demonstrates a genuine commitment and a sense of caring for someone or something. It is often a key ingredient in successful personal and professional relationships, as it helps to foster a strong bond and promote stability.Whether it is demonstrated in personal relationships, communities, or larger social and cultural contexts, one could argue that loyalty is...2024-05-2418 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The First Time I Followed My Calling When I Was 16 Years OldWhat are you meant to be doing?Following your calling often means pursuing a career or path that is not necessarily conventional or typical, but that aligns with your unique talents and passions. It may involve taking a leap of faith and leaving a stable job to start your own business, or leaving behind a familiar community to explore new opportunities.Pursuing your calling can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. It will require you to stay true to your own values, beliefs, and passions. At the same time...2024-05-1726 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The Greatest Lesson I Ever Learned; How I Discovered The Gift Of GratitudeWhat are you grateful for the most?Gratitude leads to greater happiness and joy in life. It allows us to reflect upon our accomplishments and appreciate the things that we have at the moment. The act of gratitude allows us to embrace everything that makes our lives meaningful.Today, I am flying solo to talk about my journey of discovering the gift of gratitude and how it changed my life for the better.In this episode, I will talk about how I managed to...2024-05-1027 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How I Went From HATING Meditation To Becoming Its Biggest FanPracticing meditation can enhance a person's mental and physical well-being in many ways. Research suggests that meditation can help ease anxiety, improve sleep quality, reduce negative emotions, and increase imagination, creativity, patience, and tolerance.There is also evidence that states people who meditate are more likely to be able to avoid destructive habits. Today, I am flying solo to take a look back at that one moment in my life that made me a believer of meditation and its many benefits.In this episode, I...2024-04-2624 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The Only 5 Questions That Matter In Your BusinessIt is common for customers to return to your brand when they feel valued and enjoy the overall experience.Having that culture of appreciation within your business, where your team members or your internal customers feel valued and recognized for their great work, will also reflect on your external customers’ experience. Today, I am flying solo to share with you the secret to building a perfect customer experience. In this episode, I will talk about the most important questions to ask your internal and exte...2024-04-1927 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How To Get On The TED StageEver wondered how to land a TED talk and make your message matter?Today, I am flying solo to walk you through the process of how I hosted a TEDx event back in 2012. With a theme of The Pursuit of Passion, the one-day event focused on the fire that drives people to pursue their passions. It was about how one finds the strength to follow their heart and intuition despite rejection, lack of support, challenges, or even outright failure.In this episode, I will talk about the process of...2024-04-1224 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Part 1: How I Overcame My Lifelong AnxietyDo you often find yourself thinking about the “what ifs” of life? Are you someone who worries about the worst things that could happen?If you are, then you are probably wondering if there are ways to stop these negative thoughts from filling your mind. The good news is that there are tools, habits, and strategies that can help you avoid anxiety spirals. Today, I am flying solo to share something very personal to me; my journey of dealing with and overcoming chronic worrying and anxiety. ...2024-04-0530 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Life Hack: 10X How Many Books You Read Per YearHow do you make time for the things you want to do when you have too much on your plate?Most of us, if not all, wish there were more hours in a day to grind and make time for what brings us joy. Any business owner or entrepreneur can attest to that. Finding a balance between work and life is easier said than done. But when done right, it can make the impossible possible.Today, I am flying solo to share a few tips on how I managed...2024-03-2930 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Are You Building A Life Of Competition Or A Life Of Gratitude?Success does not necessarily equate to happiness and contentment. We often think that it is by grinding day in and day out that we would find fulfillment. Most of us think of happiness as a destination, one that we can only truly experience when we reach a certain level in our job or hit a certain number in our business. Unfortunately, that is not the case. While it can be rewarding to achieve our goals, it is also true that sometimes success will only give us momentary happiness before it leaves us feeling empty.2024-03-0121 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How To Live A Life Without ConstraintsWhat’s holding you back? What’s stopping you from achieving the life you have always wanted?Unfortunately, many people experience regret for the things they never did. Perhaps they rejected a wonderful job offer, passed up an opportunity to expand their business, or missed the chance to travel the world. While there are plenty of reasons for missed opportunities, choosing to live a life in a box is what stops most people from dreaming big dreams. Today, I am flying solo to talk about...2024-01-1224 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Do You Give Yourself The Gift Of Dreams vs. Goals?Are you giving yourself the gift of dreaming? Or are you only grinding hard towards your goals?Many people think that dreams will take you nowhere unless you embrace the grind and take action towards achieving them. However, they allow you to see the future with optimism and to see what’s impossible become possible. Today, I am flying solo to talk about dreams and goals and their big differences, how they affect our disposition towards success, and what it means to allow ourselves to just dream and stop bea...2024-01-0518 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Where Will You Be In 3 Years?A lot can change in just a couple short years….your dreams may be just around the corner!These changes, whether they are good or bad, can happen in a blink of an eye. It may seem like every day is the same, but when you look back, everything is different from how it used to be, and you are different from who you used to be. Change offers new opportunities and experiences. It keeps life exciting and ensures that bad situations don’t last. It helps you move on, s...2023-12-1520 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Is Life Happening For You Or To You?Why is this happening to me? OrWhy is this happening for me? Do you ask yourself these questions when faced with adversities? Although both are true, what you focus on will determine how well you react when push comes to shove.After all, life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. And one of the only things we can control is our attitude toward things that happen to us. We can either be happy ab...2023-12-0819 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineTGM Classic | Derek Coburn | Building Rejection MusclesOn today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Derek Coburn, the author of 'Networking Is NOT Working' and the co-founder and CEO of CADRE, an un-networking community in Washington, DC, which currently supports over 100 CEOs and business leaders. Derek began his career in the financial services industry. When the economy took a turn for the worse, he had to devote more attention to his existing clients and had less time for "traditional networking". He began to experiment with his own ideas, which included creating an informal 'un-networking' group consisting of his best c...2023-12-041h 02The Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | What Advice Would Future You Give You TodayDo you ever look back and think about the things that you could have done differently? Maybe you have done and said something that you wish you could take back. Maybe you wish you hadn’t worked so hard or wish you could have done better. Most of us, if not all, have regrets. It could be things you did that you hoped you hadn’t or things you wish you had done but didn’t.Today, I am flying solo to share a list of things I would tell my...2023-12-0121 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Write and Publish Your First Book - An Inside Look Into How I Wrote My Book The Core Value Equation in 90 DaysIs 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...2023-11-2436 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine234 | What Does Success Look Like After Starting 21 BusinessesEver wondered what the path to success looks like after launching a string of business ventures?Today I am flying solo to look back and take you through how I started my entrepreneurial journey with a candy business that my brother and I launched in fourth grade, converting a one-pound block of chocolate into a lucrative enterprise. Over the years, I have initiated or invested in 21 businesses, resulting in $46.272 million in investments and generating over $1.4 billion in revenue, adjusted for today's values. After years of venturing into business, I h...2023-10-2719 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Why We Are NOT in a RecessionWhat is a recession, and are we in one now?Today I’m flying solo to talk about the US economy, its current state, and what to expect during the second half of the year. A recession is generally characterized by negative gross domestic product (GDP), rising unemployment, falling retail prices, and contracting measures of income and manufacturing lasting months or years. Recessions are often classified as two consecutive quarters of plummeting GDP growth, which the US economy is currently experiencing. GDP fell at an a...2023-10-2021 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Who's Living In Your Emotional House?In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is flying solo during his mini-sabbatical/pseudo vacation in Mexico to discuss who's living in your emotional house and what we're doing about our past. In this episode you'll discover how a chance encounter with Ed Mylett and his book, 'The Power of One More,' changed Darius' thinking, the concept of 'cleaning your emotional house' and identifying what type of emotional house you have, the importance of dreaming with imagination and dreaming about a compelling future for yourself. Join Darius as...2023-10-0622 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Overcome the Tests of Life to Level UpAre you aware of the tests you've had to endure throughout your life? As we move through life, leveling up and growing, we all experience various tests designed to help us expand and meet the new challenges the future brings, even if we're not aware of it. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is recording from Wahaca, Mexico to discuss the tests we all have to pass in order to level up in our lives. Join Darius as he discusses the tests we all must face as we...2023-09-2927 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Housing Market Truths from an InsiderIt seems the economy at the moment is in turmoil. We're seeing Bitcoin under 20,000. The markets are down. The Dow Jones has reached 30,000, S&P was around 3600. On top of this volatility, there's a housing boom happening all around us.In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius goes solo to offer some insights on housing based on his past experience running one of the largest servicers and lenders in the United States. That business managed hundreds of billions of dollars of mortgages, and Darius uses that experience to offer his thoughts on the...2023-09-2222 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The Truth About InflationIn 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...2023-09-1521 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Make the Unconscious Become ConsciousToday, 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.2023-09-0825 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Turn $1,500 into $15,000,000In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is flying solo at MIT Endicott house, outside Boston, Massachusetts. In it he shares the story of how he launched his first company and the hustle required to make it successful.You'll discover a little about Darius' early days in business.You'll learn what happened when he moved to San Francisco at 23 with $1,500 to his name and $10,000 of credit card debt.You'll also discover how he was able to turn that $1,500 into $15 million of gross revenue...2023-09-0126 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The Only Three Things Leaders Need to Know to WinIn today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius discusses a top near and dear to his heart - leadership and the things every leader needs to know in order to be the best leader they can be, no matter their field. You'll discover a little about Darius' background and his long-standing desire to be a leader in all his endeavors. You'll learn the three things that every leader 'owns' in their business. You'll also discover how those three things apply to your business and how you leverage them to yo...2023-08-2517 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Overcome a Massive FailureIn business, failure on some level is inevitable. Whether it be a small stumble or a huge mistake, often the greatest business lessons can be found in those dark moments.In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius shares the story of one of his biggest triumphs, which ultimately led to his biggest failure and the lessons he learned along the way. You'll discover the story of Darius' first big success that led to his first really big failure.You'll learn the lessons he t...2023-08-1834 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The Three Most Important Questions For Any Entrepreneur"If you build it, they will come."Most of us know that line from the film, 'Field of Dreams.' It's inspirational, but not a great strategy when building a business - especially when it applies to the core values of your business.In June of 2008, Darius attended an event in which he experienced a "gut punch" that completely changed the trajectory of his life and forced him to rethink the way he ran his business.In this quick solo outing, Darius shares the...2023-08-1115 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | How to Make the Perfect Cup of CoffeeAre you feeling bogged down by the monotony of your daily life?On today’s show, Darius talks about enjoying the journey rather than incessantly worrying about the end results. Like many of us, Darius loves his cup of morning coffee. And he obsesses about getting the right beans, the temperature, and adding the correct amount of milk. Recently, a friend of Darius’s bought an expensive coffee machine that automated the entire process. While this made it extremely easy to make the perfect cup of...2023-08-0425 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | Getting Ahead By Cultivating An Ownership MindHow can you foster an ownership mindset within your organization that catapults you miles ahead of the competition?In today’s show, Darius shares how the Core Equation Value Equation Process can help you cultivate this much-prized mindset which will have your employees treating your business as if it was theirs.When you do so, you can extract that extra 20% - that extra bit that separates the winners from the losers.Learn how you can discover, design, and roll out your own core equation va...2023-07-2115 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineDarius Classic | The Biggest Lie in the Whole WorldMany of you must have made ambitious New Year resolutions. The past year (2020) was a disaster and understandably you are keen to make up for the lost time.Before you start working towards your audacious goals, do take a moment to stop and think – will you be in a state of permanent bliss once you scale your mountaintop? Will the air be better? Will life be funnier? And will people be nicer?No, right? ...2023-07-1421 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine179 | Darius’s Interview on the 7-Figure Millennial Podcast w/ Brandon FongDarius Mirshahzadeh has spent two decades building high-growth companies from startups to hundreds of employees, and during that span of time, he realized what it takes to grow his companies exponentially and how to build a core-value-driven organization from zero to one thousand employees.Darius is a core value evangelist, a serial entrepreneur, and a culture-building mad scientist who was ranked #9 on Glassdoor’s list of Top CEOs of Small and Medium Companies in the US.Topics include: The story behind my “pink unicorn” symbol What made me realiz...2023-03-031h 14The Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine118 | Darius Interview on Young and Profiting Podcast with Hala TahaToday I had the opportunity to appear on the Young and Profiting Podcast hosted by Hala Taha, where I talked about the entrepreneurial lessons I learned from my father, my experience working at the White House, how I built and grew my businesses through partnerships, my reason for stepping down as CEO of Money Source, and the importance of running a core value-driven organization. After realizing I was unemployable during my internship at the White House, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming my own boss and built my first business, Twin Capital Mortgage, with my twin brother...2022-07-261h 19The Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine113 | How to Overcome the Tests of Life to Level UpAre you aware of the tests you've had to endure throughout your life? As we move through life, levelling up and growing, we all experience various tests designed to help us expand and meet the new challenges the future brings, even if we're not aware of it. In this episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius is recording from Wahaca, Mexico to discuss the tests we all have to pass in order to level up in our lives. In this episode you'll discover: - Why the most successful people are always focused on the next goal, an...2022-07-0830 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine102 | Are We in a Housing Bubble?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. I...2022-05-2026 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness MachineSpecial 100th Episode! | How to Make the Unconscious Become ConsciousWelcome to the 100th episode of The Greatness Machine! 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...2022-05-1329 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine97 | How to Turn $1,500 into $15,000,000In today's episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius is flying solo at MIT Endicott House, outside Boston, Massachusetts. In it, he shares the story of how he launched his first company and the hustle required to make it successful. You'll discover a little about Darius' early days in business. You'll learn what happened when he moved to San Francisco at 23 with $1,500 to his name and $10,000 of credit card debt. You'll also discover how he was able to turn that $1,500 into $15 million of gross revenue in his business between 2001 and 2007. Join Darius as he offers advice...2022-04-2627 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine88 | The Only Three Things Leaders Need to Know to WinIn today's episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius discusses a top near and dear to his heart - leadership, and the things every leader needs to know in order to be the best leader they can be, no matter their field. You'll discover a little about Darius' background and his long-standing desire to be a leader in all his endeavors. You'll learn the three things that every leader 'owns' in their business. You'll also discover how those three things apply to your business and how you leverage them to your full advantage. Join Darius as he o...2022-03-0819 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine86 l How to Overcome Massive FailureIn business, failure on some level is inevitable. Whether it be a small stumble or a huge mistake, often the greatest business lessons can be found in those dark moments. In today's episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius shares the story of one of his biggest triumphs, which ultimately led to his biggest failure, and the lessons he learned along the way.  You'll discover the story of Darius' first big success that led to his first really big failure. You'll learn the lessons he took from that failure and how it informed his future decisions.  You'll...2022-03-0134 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine84 | The Core Value Equation: Why Your Core Values = Your ResultsIn today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius dives deep into a subject close to his heart: core values. From a bucket list item in 2010 that spoke of writing a best-selling book to today, Darius has made incorporating core values into business one of his key pieces of advice for entrepreneurs. But it wasn't always that way... You'll discover a little about his book, The Core Value Equation, and its origin in a bucket list he created in 2010. You'll learn why he felt he needed to write it and why core values are so important to him. You'll also dis...2022-02-2231 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine82 | Elon Musk the Serial Killer EyesOn today's episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius is flying solo, sharing a unique story he experienced about the time a chance get-together with a friend lead to an encounter with Elon Musk... a meeting that still leaves him with deep questions. You'll discover a little of Darius' background growing up in Fullerton, California around the time that serial killer Richard Ramirez was active. You'll learn why we need to really think about how we speak to people we don't know, because a chance meeting with an influential person could happen at any time. You'll als...2022-02-1537 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine80 | Becoming an Entrepreneur: How I almost got fired from the White HouseOn today's episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius is flying solo, offering a rare glimpse into his own backstory - how he became an entrepreneur, and the moment he knew he'd never work for anyone else ever again. You'll discover a little of Darius' background and his time as a White House intern for the Clinton Administration... the last "job" he would ever have. You'll learn how he nearly lost his job due to a poorly thought out email. You'll also discover the three vital lessons he learned during his internship in the White House. Join...2022-02-0829 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine78 | How to Make the Perfect Cup of CoffeeAre you feeling bogged down by the monotony of your daily life? On today’s show, Darius talks about enjoying the journey rather than incessantly worrying about the end results. Like many of us, Darius loves his cup of morning coffee. And he obsesses about getting the right beans, the temperature, and adding the correct amount of milk. Recently, a friend of Darius’s bought an expensive coffee machine that automated the entire process. While this made it extremely easy to make the perfect cup of coffee, Darius realized that he enjoyed the process of making his cup of coffee...2022-02-0128 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine75 | Derek Coburn | Building Rejection MusclesOn today's episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius chats with Derek Coburn, the author of 'Networking Is NOT Working' and the co-founder and CEO of CADRE, an un-networking community in Washington, DC, which currently supports over 100 CEOs and business leaders.  Derek began his career in the financial services industry. When the economy took a turn for the worse, he had to devote more attention to his existing clients and had less time for "traditional networking". He began to experiment with his own ideas, which included creating an informal 'un-networking' group consisting of his best clients an...2022-01-111h 05The Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine47 | How to Get Your Team Focused On Working On The BusinessStrategic planning is a skill that every business can use to accomplish tasks from one quarter to the next and create growth. However, like any system, when misused, strategic planning can create an endless cycle of never-finished projects that can have the opposite effect. In today's solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius shares some of his early experiences with strategic planning, the challenges he discovered, and how he's looking to make the system work much more smoothly. You'll learn how his team began to repackage/rename uncompleted projects and resubmit them from one planning session to the next, on...2021-09-2822 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine15 | The Three Most Important Questions For Any Entrepreneur"If you build it, they will come." Most of us know that line from the film, 'Field of Dreams.' It's inspirational, but not a great strategy when building a business - especially when it applies to the core values of your business. In June of 2008, Darius attended an event in which he experienced a "gut punch" that completely changed the trajectory of his life and forced him to rethink the way he ran his business. In this quick solo outing, Darius shares the story of his life-altering experience - and it all came down to three simple questions, sta...2021-05-1116 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine9 | How to Make the Perfect Cup of CoffeeAre you feeling bogged down by the monotony of your daily life? On today’s show, Darius talks about enjoying the journey rather than incessantly worrying about the end results.  Like many of us, Darius loves his cup of morning coffee. And he obsesses about getting the right beans, the temperature, and adding the correct amount of milk.  Recently, a friend of Darius’s bought an expensive coffee machine that automated the entire process. While this made it extremely easy to make the perfect cup of coffee, Darius realized that he enjoyed the process of making his cup of coffee way mo...2021-04-0625 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine9 | How to Make a Cup of CoffeeAre you feeling bogged down by the monotony of your daily life? On today’s show, Darius talks about enjoying the journey rather than incessantly worrying about the end results.  Like many of us, Darius loves his cup of morning coffee. And he obsesses about getting the right beans, the temperature, and adding the correct amount of milk.  Recently, a friend of Darius’s bought an expensive coffee machine that automated the entire process. While this made it extremely easy to make the perfect cup of coffee, Darius realized that he enjoyed the proces...2021-04-0622 minThe Greatness MachineThe Greatness Machine0 | Welcome To The Greatness MachineToday’s show is a special one as Darius Mirshahzadeh shares his incredible backstory, and his big WHY that has inspired him to launch The Greatness Machine.  Back in 2006, Darius was riding on a high as his first business, Twin Capital Mortgage became the 40th fastest growing company in the United States. However, the economic crisis of 2007 wiped out all his hard-earned gains. The next five years were particularly tough. And by the end of 2011, Darius was distraught, in a bad place, and in a business that he did not love. That’s when he decided to pivot to do somet...2021-02-2511 min