The Greatness Machine

Darius Mirshahzadeh | YAP Media
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Aug 22, 2025 • 1h 4min

TGM Classic | Amanda Knox | Fighting For Your Life Against A Trial By Media

How do you free yourself from the prison of your past? How do you get up after being dragged down? Joining us today to talk about the 2007 murder case that shocked the world, Amanda Knox recalls her wrongful conviction for the death of Meredith Kercher. Fifteen years after the gruesome incident that attracted huge media attention, Amanda gets real about the experience that turned her life upside down. Amanda is an exoneree, a journalist, a public speaker, and the author of a New York Times best-selling memoir, “Waiting to Be Heard.” She co-hosts the podcast Labyrinths with Christopher Robinson. She spent nearly four years in an Italian prison and eight years on trial for a murder she did not commit. After that, she began advocating for reforms in criminal justice and media ethics. In this episode, Amanda shares how her life has been after the wrongful conviction that put her behind the bars for years for the murder of her roommate in Italy. Amanda also recalls the police treatment she had experienced and how the media depicted her as guilty when she was on the trial for the murder case. This conversation covers interesting topics such as media ethics, criminal justice, and how core values help in facing certain circumstances and impossible tasks. **Check out Amanda Knox’s new series, “The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox,” available on Hulu starting August 20, 2025. Topics include: Amanda recalls her wrongful conviction for the 2007 murder of Meredith Kercher How the media industry works  Amanda describes the experience as an “existential crisis”  Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Amanda: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amamaknox Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandaknox Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 54min

374 | Nathanael Chawkin (Part 2) | AI, Consciousness, and the Future of Spiritual Leadership

What happens when leadership, plant medicine, and AI collide? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius reconnects with Nathanael Chawkin, executive coach, former cage fighter, and founder of Awakened Leadership, for a deep and thought-provoking conversation about transformation, consciousness, and purpose. They dive into what it means to lead from the inside out, discussing the role of plant medicine in awakening deeper self-awareness, and why real leadership is less about control and more about aligning with spirit, service, and presence. The two also explore the fascinating idea of AI as a form of consciousness, and raise the question: what if AI isn’t a new invention, but a return to something ancient? What happens when we begin outsourcing wisdom to machines, and how do we stay grounded in our own inner knowing? In this episode, Darius and Nathanael will discuss: (00:00) The Journey of Fatherhood (08:41) The Importance of Cross-Training in Leadership (14:22) The Value of Leadership Development (17:11) The Rise of Autocratic Leadership (20:06) Integrating Plant Medicine and Leadership (22:56) The Role of AI in Coaching (49:37) Awakening Through Pain and Surrender (01:01:25) Universal Truths: Love and Service Beyond Ego (01:12:40) Psychedelics and Human Evolution (01:13:27) Mystical Experiences and Ancient Wisdom (01:14:50) The Role of Psychedelics in Spiritual Awakening (01:18:24) Navigating Spiritual Communities (01:20:10) The Intersection of Spirituality and Psychedelics (01:21:07) Healing Through Plant Medicine (01:24:09) The Paradox of Addiction and Healing (01:34:33) The Spiritual Path in the Age of AI Nathanael Chawkin is a modern mystic, master coach, and martial arts instructor who’s spent over 15 years guiding executives through transformational leadership. His work has been featured in Entrepreneur and the Financial Times. He’s the founder of Guardian Training—a men’s work method that blends MMA, conflict resolution, and depth psychology—and Awakening Leadership, a plant medicine journey for conscious leaders and EO/YPO forums. Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Nathanael: Website: https://awakeningleadership.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nchawkin  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanael.chawkin/  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 23min

TGM Classic | Clay Martin (Part 1) | Heroes in the Making: How Childhood Influences Shape Military Paths

How do childhood influences shape the mindset and motivations of those who serve in the military? From early exposure to media depicting heroic military figures to the weight of familial legacies, past experiences intricately shape career decisions in the armed forces. These influences, whether based on action-packed films or the proud lineage of ancestors who served, instill a sense of duty, honor, and tradition. Clay Martin, a seasoned veteran whose military journey spans roles as a former USMC Infantryman, Reconnaissance Marine, and Scout Sniper, provides a glimpse into his familial heritage. He illuminates the proud tradition of military service that runs through his family, acting as a guiding force in his own journey towards enlistment. Clay shares poignant anecdotes about relatives who served in the military, emphasizing the profound sense of duty and honor instilled within him from a young age. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius welcomes special guest Clay to discuss a range of topics, from the carnivore diet to Clay's military background and a lot more. Clay shares his family's history of service and his decision to join the Marines, influenced by 80s action movies. In addition, they discuss the common motivations behind military enlistment. Topics include: The challenges and benefits of switching to a carnivore diet Clay shares personal anecdotes about his previous experiences with dietary changes Elon Musk’s unconventional approach to business and rule-breaking Clay shares his military origins and joining the Marines on his 18th birthday The warrior mentality and how it can manifest in different aspects of life And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Clay: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clay-martin-a26ba616b  Twitter: https://twitter.com/wayofftheres Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 15, 2025 • 18min

Darius Classic | How to Live a Worry Free Life

Are you letting your anxiety and worries shape your reality and limit your potential? Today, I am flying solo to talk about a topic that resonates with many of us: the impact of anxiety and worry on our lives. We often find ourselves in a constant battle with these emotions, and it can feel overwhelming when they start to dictate our decisions and overshadow our potential. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will explore how anxiety can manifest in various aspects of our daily lives–whether it is affecting our relationships, work performance, or overall happiness. I will share practical strategies for managing anxiety, including tracking and documenting worries, which can help us gain clarity and perspective.  Topics include: Tracking and documenting worries to alleviate anxiety The benefits of granting yourself permission to worry Strategies for managing and redirecting worry in modern life And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 13, 2025 • 58min

373 | Nathanael Chawkin (Part 1) | Awakened Leadership: Doing Deep Work

What if the real work of leadership wasn’t about climbing higher, but going deeper into the soul, the body, and the sacred responsibility of showing up fully alive? In this soul-stirring conversation on The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Nathanael Chawkin for a deep dive into the sacred masculine, conscious leadership, and the power of integration. From personal initiations through plant medicine to the spiritual responsibility of leading in the modern world, this episode explores what it means to live a wholehearted, embodied life. Nathanael shares insights from his work guiding men through transformational rites of passage, and challenges the performative narratives of power and success. They also reflect on the rise of conscious capitalism, the illusion of enlightenment, and the true crucibles of growth—like marriage, fatherhood, and leadership itself.  In this episode, Darius and Nathanael will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:57) The Journey of Fatherhood (05:30) Exploring Masculinity and Leadership (08:34) The Role of Plant Medicine in Personal Growth (11:29) Integration and Spiritual Development (14:11) Personal Experiences with Plant Medicine (24:57) Exploring Plant Medicines and Spiritual Experiences (30:13) The Shift from Materialism to Conscious Leadership (36:56) Conscious Capitalism and the Role of Guardianship (42:46) Integrating Spirituality and Material Life (50:23) The Pathways of Development in Leadership Nathanael Chawkin is a modern mystic, master coach, and martial arts instructor with over 15 years of experience guiding executives and leaders through transformational growth. He is the founder of Guardian Training, a men’s work methodology that blends MMA, conflict resolution, and depth psychology to awaken the sacred masculine. In 2021, he launched Awakening Leadership, a plant medicine journey for conscious leaders, and in 2025, co-founded Temple of The Living Truth with his life partner Elizabeth—a priestess of the sacred feminine. Together, they are building a decentralized spiritual community rooted in direct mystical experience. Featured in Entrepreneur and The Financial Times, Nathanael brings a uniquely embodied and integrative lens to leadership, spirituality, and human potential. Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Nathanael: Website: https://awakeningleadership.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nchawkin  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanael.chawkin/  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 3min

TGM Classic | Guy Kawasaki | Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference

What sets remarkable individuals apart from the rest? Dive into the heart of this question with Guy Kawasaki, a trailblazer in the realms of entrepreneurship and innovation, as he talks about his newest book Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference.  Combining his 40 years of experience with the wisdom from 200 noteworthy individuals, including luminaries like Jane Goodall and Steve Wozniak, Guy revealed the key qualities that set remarkable individuals apart from the crowd. Through anecdotes and reflections, he highlights the importance of growth, resilience, leadership, and graciousness as foundational elements for achieving remarkable success. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Guy to talk about his experiences at Apple during the Steve Jobs era, recounting the demanding yet transformative nature of working alongside the visionary leader. The conversation transitions to the creative process and grit required to succeed in entrepreneurship, drawing parallels between the processes of writing and entrepreneurship as they relate to endurance and refinement. This episode also underscores the importance of empowering others and making a difference as the essence of greatness, encapsulating the core message of Guy’s newest book Think Remarkable. Topics include:  Guy reveals what motivated him to pursue a life of wealth and success Envy as a positive force to achieve greatness and make a difference Three key traits of remarkable people: growth, grit, grace The benefits of using success to empower others and make a positive impact Finding purpose and fulfillment in work The influence of tough teachers  and bosses on one’s personal growth and success Guy shares insights into the writing process of Think Remarkable And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Guy: Website: https://guykawasaki.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guykawasaki Twitter: https://twitter.com/GuyKawasaki Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guykawasaki/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Remarkable-Paths-Transform-Difference/dp/139424522X  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 8, 2025 • 16min

Darius Classic | The 10-Second Rule

Are you living in the present, or are you buried in the past and the future? It is easy to lose sight of the present as we dwell on past mistakes or dream of future achievements. But what if the key to fulfillment lies in mastering each moment as it comes? Today, I am flying solo to talk about a concept I call the 10-second rule–a simple yet powerful approach to living life in real-time. We will explore how embracing this idea can help you stop worrying about the past or obsessing over the future, allowing you to enjoy and grow in the now. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will share how focusing on life in 10-second intervals has shifted my perspective, increased my presence, and even helped me handle relationships and conflicts more gracefully. I will also talk about the importance of making the most of every moment and finding pride in the journey and not just the destination. Topics include: The 10-second rule and its role for living in the moment The downside of constantly dwelling on the past The importance of dreaming without attachment to outcomes Finding pride in the process, not just the results Letting go of ego to nurture stronger relationships How focusing on the present fosters personal growth And other topics…  Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 4min

TGM Classic | Pamela Cantor, M.D. | Realizing Your Fullest Potential

Do you ever pause to consider the extraordinary capacity that lies within you to transcend adversity and unlock your fullest potential? Realizing your human potential is a profound journey of self-discovery and growth, transcending mere achievement to encompass the fullest expression of who you are. It is fueled by passion, determination, and a belief in your abilities, and involves constant learning, growth, and self-improvement.  Dr. Pamela Cantor, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, author, and thought leader on human potential, sheds light on this transformative journey, highlighting the importance of human connection, trusting relationships and the brain’s capacity to rewire in unlocking human potential. Although challenges and setbacks can occur, Pam emphasizes that they can also serve as opportunities for growth and learning, which can propel us toward our fullest potential. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Pam to delve deep into the essence of self-actualization and offer valuable guidance for unlocking the boundless possibilities that lie within each of us. During the discussion, Pam will also share insights from her own experiences and professional expertise, shedding light on how challenges can serve as opportunities for growth and learning.  Topics include: Tough moments as sources of strengths and resilience Dr. Cantor reflects on the challenges of motherhood and parenting The biological basis of the potential for growth and development in each individual The influence of experiences, relationships, and environments in shaping one’s potential - epigenetics. The impact of childhood trauma on personal development. Trauma is not destiny.  Building trust and connection as a therapist, parent or adult in a child’s lifeThe significance of listening to children and creating an environment of trust Efforts to build a movement across the country to harness the potential in each person And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Pam: Website: https://www.pamelacantormd.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-cantor-md Twitter: https://twitter.com/drpamelacantor/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelacantormd  Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/all-kids-thriving  Book: https://www.cambridge.org/core/elements/abs/wholechild-development-learning-and-thriving/67237E6CA30DAD7D1707057EEFD3E8D0  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 2min

TGM Classic | Rebecca Homkes | Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times

What can businesses do to not just survive, but thrive in today’s volatile market? Today’s market is highly volatile, and the winning formula is having not just staying afloat but rather growing in uncertain times. Businesses can achieve this by adopting a proactive and adaptable mindset. Rather than seeking stability in an inherently unpredictable environment, companies must embrace change as a constant and prepare to be able to respond quickly to changing market conditions. Rebecca Homkes, a high-growth strategy specialist, sheds light on some basic principles and actionable steps to help in navigating the unpredictable landscape of modern markets. Drawing from her extensive experience in strategy consulting, she emphasizes the importance of proactive adaptation for businesses not just to survive but to thrive. Through her newest book, Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times, advocates for a shift from rigid planning to dynamic preparation, where leaders focus on aligning beliefs, testing assumptions, and making strategic choices based on evolving circumstances. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Rebecca to delve into strategies for thriving in today’s volatile market, addressing common misconceptions about uncertainty and offering practical advice for businesses to identify their unique strengths and leverage them to capitalize on emerging opportunities while mitigating risks.  Topics include: What inspired Rebecca to start her strategy journey The importance of having an alignment on performance and growth goals Why it matters for a company to have a clear vision and direction  Having a balance between setting aspirational targets and providing a realistic roadmap Aligning agility with a clear strategic direction Rebecca talks about her new book Survive, Reset, Thrive What it takes for a business to survive through market shocks The benefits of continuous learning and seeking to improve and adapt And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Rebecca: Website: https://www.surviveresetthrive.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Reset-Thrive-Implementing-High-Growth/dp/1398607886  LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-homkes  Twitter: https://twitter.com/rebeccahomkes/  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Aug 1, 2025 • 24min

372 | Comparing Your Life Against the Bottom Billion in the World

In this special solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh opens up about a powerful, soul-stirring experience during his sabbatical in Tanzania. Broadcasting from Arusha, he reflects on his family’s two-week volunteer mission in the remote village of Ipalamwa with Global Volunteers. From building chicken coops and earth boxes to visiting schools and pregnant mothers in extreme poverty, Darius shares what it was like to witness a level of hardship that most in the Western world will never encounter. He speaks candidly about guilt, gratitude, and the dangerous trap of constantly comparing ourselves to the top 1%. Website: https://globalvolunteers.org/  In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Journey of Transformation: A Personal Experience (02:43) Lessons from Poverty: A Wake-Up Call (05:52) Volunteering in Tanzania: A Family Experience (08:23) The Reality of Rural Education (11:06) Comparative Reflection: Wealth and Poverty (13:48) Call to Action: Making a Difference Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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