The Greatness Machine

How do successful people navigate their careers, overcome barriers, and strategically position themselves for success? It is often challenging to navigate the complexities of professional growth when embarking on a successful career path. From shifting industry landscapes to personal and social expectations, professionals face numerous challenges and success in careers is largely determined by how one strategically positions themselves. Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi, through their book Career Forward: Strategies from Women Who’ve Made It, provide strategic insights to define and achieve career aspirations. Aimed at millennials facing pivotal career decisions, this book highlights the importance of taking calculated risks early in a career to achieve outsized returns.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Grace and Christiana to discuss strategies for crafting a successful career, embracing resilience, and strategically navigating the ever-changing landscape of professional life. They also talk about Grace and Christiana’s upcoming book, Career Forward, set to launch on February 20, 2024. Topics include: The importance of leveraging network in finding a writing partner Christiana highlights the value of having a clear direction or “cardinal direction” Building professional networks and how it can be beneficial Path of least resistance vs. intentionality The concept of building professional equity by consistently demonstrating excellence The idea of having a “growth stock mentality” The concept of “operating at the top of your license” Grace and Christiana talk about the audience for their book Career Forward The idea of taking asymmetric risks in one’s career Understanding and advocating for one’s worth in the professional realm And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  Connect with Grace: Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/39999441.Grace_Puma  Connect with Christiana: Website: https://www.lovejoyadvisors.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/csshi  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

Is your financial advisor helping you build wealth or just selling you products? Today, I am flying solo to dive deep into the crucial process of selecting the right financial advisor, sharing valuable insights from my own experiences. Whether you are an entrepreneur preparing for a business exit or an individual with a growing nest egg, finding the right financial partner is key to securing your financial future.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will break down the three main types of financial advisors–wire houses, independent RIAs (Registered Investment Advisors), and insurance companies–detailing the pros and cons of each. I will also explain why it is essential to interview multiple advisors, understand how fees work, and ask the right questions about the firm’s planning capabilities, alt investment opportunities, and who you will really be dealing with on a day-to-day basis.  Topics include: Interviewing multiple advisors to find the best fit for your unique needs Working with advisors that offer comprehensive, in-house services The advantages of working with a lead (G1) advisor compared to a junior (G2) advisor Choosing a planning-centric firm over one focused solely on investments The importance of patience and avoiding hasty decisions during market dips And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  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

What if the hustle isn’t the way forward, but the thing holding you back? In this powerful episode of The Greatness Machine, Scott Donnell, founder of Fig & Eagle, shares his transformation from a high-achieving, hustle-driven entrepreneur to a fully surrendered husband, father, and leader. He and Darius unpack the deeper meaning of faith, family, and legacy, exploring what happens when you stop chasing success and start living with intention. Scott opens up about breaking free from the grip of “mammon”—money, status, and performance—and how that shift has changed everything. This conversation is a call to rethink what truly matters and how we lead the people who matter most. In this episode, Darius and Scott will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Scott Donnell (02:54) The Importance of Family Time (05:41) Defining Legacy Beyond Wealth (08:47) The Role of Heritage in Family Success (11:26) Understanding the Concept of Legacy (14:12) Building Strong Family Connections (17:28) The Impact of Overachieving on Family Dynamics (20:19) Healing Childhood Wounds and Their Effects (23:13) Spiritual Insights on Wealth and Control (30:44) The Power of Surrender (33:09) Living as a Steward (37:38) Transformative Experiences of Surrender (43:22) Raising Families with Purpose (48:56) Prioritizing Life and Work (54:07) The Legacy We Leave Behind Scott Donnell is a serial entrepreneur and passionate advocate for youth development. He’s the founder of Apex Leadership Co, Hapbee Technologies, and the GravyStack™ banking app, tools that have empowered over 6 million kids nationwide with leadership, fitness, and financial skills. Based in Phoenix with his wife Amy and their four “value creators,” Scott is also the co-author of “Value Creation Kid” and co-host of the Smart Money Parenting podcast. Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  Connect with Scott: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnell-scott  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imscottdonnell/ Twitter: https://x.com/imscottdonnell 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

Ever wondered what it takes to shift from a life of constant striving and grinding to one filled with purpose, balance, and true abundance? Choosing a life of purpose, balance, and true abundance over a life consumed by relentless striving and grinding is a profound journey of self-discovery. This shift challenges the conventional narrative that success is solely defined by external accomplishments and invites us to reflect on the deeper meaning of fulfillment. Ron “Omani” Carson, Founder and CEO of Carson Group, talks about his transformative journey that has taken him from a life of relentless work to a place of profound fulfillment and balance. His pursuit for holistic success has opened doors for him to explore unconventional paths, from psychedelic therapy to biohacking, red light therapy, and the transformative power of intentional living. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Ron joins Darius to talk about his personal transformation, highlighting a realization that no financial achievement could bring sustained happiness. The conversation also delves into the importance of living with intention, debunking the myth that grinding through life is necessary sacrifice for success. The discussion extends to mindfulness and the significance of self-care.  Topics include: What motivated Ron to pursue a career in financial planning The secret behind the success of Carson Group The importance of aligning the interests of consumers, employees, and shareholders in a conscious capitalism model The concept of abundance versus scarcity Finding and doing what one loves to avoid the myth of paying unnecessary dues The value of intentional living and aligning actions with a deeper purpose Overcoming the scarcity mindset by surrounding oneself with the best people And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  Connect with Ron: Website: https://www.carsonwealth.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roncarson1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roncarson6/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/rchusker  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

Do you compare your current decisions with an ideal outcome that did not happen? Today, I am flying solo to dive deep into the concept of comparison and its impact on our happiness and decision-making. I will explore how we often measure ourselves against idealized outcomes or imagined scenarios rather than focusing on our unique journeys. I will also introduce the “rewind button” exercise, encouraging you to reflect on your past decisions and consider whether you would make the same choice again, armed with the knowledge you have now.  This episode of The Greatness Machine will emphasize the importance of owning our choices, even when the outcomes aren’t what we expected. This will also highlight how cultivating gratitude for the lessons learned along the way can transform our perspective and foster personal growth.  Topics include: The downside of comparing yourself to idealized or imagined outcomes The rewind button exercise for gaining clarity on past decisions Owning your choices, regardless of the final outcome Cultivating gratitude in hindsight for both the challenges and successes Practicing conscious leadership by being aware of your decisions and their impact Focusing on the present moment and maximizing its potential And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  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

What if AI is more than a tool? What if it’s a toddler learning from us? In this mind-expanding episode of The Greatness Machine, futurist Elatia Abate joins Darius to explore the ethical and emotional dimensions of artificial intelligence. From the power of diverse voices shaping AI to how kindness in prompts can actually improve results, Elatia shares a bold vision of co-creating the future with technology. She also reflects on her personal journey—how pretending to be anything less than her full self held her back, and how authenticity unlocked her greatness. In this episode, Darius and Elatia will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Personal Background (03:05) Cultural Heritage and Identity (05:57) Career Journey and Transition to Futurism (09:04) The Impact of Technology on Work (11:55) Education and Influences (15:14) The Role of Humanity in Leadership (18:08) Exploring the Future of Work (20:59) Navigating the Age of AI (25:32) The Rise of AI and Its Impact on Employment (30:37) Navigating the Future of Work (34:55) The Velocity of Change and Workforce Displacement (38:40) Societal Implications of AI and Automation (41:57) Reimagining Value Creation in the Age of AI (48:04) Consciousness and AI: A New Frontier (53:57) The Importance of Diverse Voices in AI Development Elatia Abate is a globally recognized entrepreneur and futurist on a mission to revolutionize leadership in the Age of AI. Named a Forbes leading female futurist, she serves as Futurist in Residence at Paylocity and is the creator of Future-Led Leadership™️, a framework used by organizations such as Verizon, Deloitte, and GMAC. A sought-after keynote speaker and TEDx presenter, Elatia has shared insights on the future of work, leadership, and resilience with audiences from Citi to SHRM. Formerly an HR executive at Anheuser-Busch InBev and Dow Jones, she is also the author of Build a Career You Love and a featured expert in work with Tony Robbins and Trevor Noah. Elatia teaches at Stanford, the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and LinkedIn Learning. Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  Connect with Elatia: Website: https://elatiaabate.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elatiaabate  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elatiaabate/  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

Is more money the key to happiness? Or is there more to life than what meets the wallet? People often seek financial success in the pursuit of happiness, believing that a substantial income and material wealth is equivalent to a more fulfilling life. While money certainly plays a crucial role in meeting basic needs and providing a sense of security, the relationship between money and happiness is complex and multifaceted. Garrett Gunderson, through his book Money Unmasked: Unlearn, Unlock, and Take Back Control of Your Finances and Life, delves into the intricacies of financial well-being and challenges conventional wisdom about money. Beyond the punchlines and laughter, Garrett is a vocal advocate for financial education and literacy. In fact, he founded Wealth Factory, a company focused on providing education and coaching to help individuals and businesses optimize their financial strategies. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Garrett joins Darius to reflect on his venture into comedy and to talk about the motivation behind his book Money Unmasked, explaining the concept of money personas and shadow personas, and exploring the intricate relationship between money and happiness. The discussion will also touch upon the struggle to break free from busyness and confronting insecurities, along with various other compelling topics. Topics include: Garrett takes a look back into his spontaneous journey into comedy The inspiration behind Garrett’s book Money Unmasked The concept of money personas and shadow personas Relationship between money and happiness Garrett introduces the “Cycle of Creation” from Money Unmasked The challenges of recording audio books Escaping busyness and facing insecurities And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  Connect with Garrett: Website: https://garrettgunderson.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-gunderson-651359b3 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GarrettGundersonTV Twitter: https://twitter.com/gbgunderson/  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

What if your company’s biggest problem isn’t strategy, but a lack of soul? Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Mike Maddock and John Tobin on Your Seat at the Table Podcast for a deep dive into leadership, company culture, and what it really takes to build a high-performing team. In this candid conversation, Darius opens up about the hard lessons he’s learned as a CEO, the blind spots that hold leaders back, and why most companies get core values completely wrong. He shares the frameworks he’s developed to help organizations scale with clarity, authenticity, and purpose. In this episode, Mike, John, and Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Darius Mirshahzadeh (03:06) The Journey of an Entrepreneur (05:49) Lessons from Business Failures (12:00) The Impact of Entrepreneurship on Personal Life (17:53) Reflections on Success and Future Endeavors (26:15) The Pursuit of Financial Success (29:02) Understanding the Game vs. Real Life (33:54) The Art of Podcasting: Insights and Experiences (39:33) Balancing Work and Personal Relationships (45:16) Finding Purpose Beyond Success (49:50) Knowing When to Quit or Persist Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  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

What does it take to lead when lives are on the line? In this compelling episode of The Greatness Machine, former Navy SEAL Commander Rorke Denver joins Darius to explore what real leadership looks like under pressure. Drawing from years of leading special ops missions, Rorke shares how the same principles that guide elite warriors—clarity, discipline, and trust—can transform how we lead in business and life. He reveals why great leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but about staying calm in chaos, making tough decisions, and inspiring others through character. Whether you're leading a team, a company, or your own life, this episode offers powerful insights for anyone ready to lead with courage and purpose. In this episode, Darius and Rorke will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Special Occasions (03:00) Rorke's Origin Story and Path to Becoming a Navy SEAL (12:03) Leadership Lessons from Coaching and Military Experience (20:56) The Crisis of Masculinity and Modern Leadership (30:04) Experiences in BUD/S Training (32:15) Mindset and Resilience in Adversity (34:41) Embracing Challenges for Growth (36:39) The Role of Suffering in Strength (37:33) Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield (52:03) Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life Commander Rorke Denver is a decorated Navy SEAL, bestselling author, and leadership expert. He’s led over 200 combat missions, run SEAL training, and earned the Bronze Star with “V” for valor. Rorke is the author of “Damn Few” and “Worth Dying For,” and starred in the film Act of Valor and FOX’s American Grit with John Cena. A former All-American lacrosse player at Syracuse, he holds a master’s in Global Business Leadership and now leads EVER ONWARD, a leadership and performance brand. Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  Connect with Rorke: Website: https://rorkedenver.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCi7zKkoLnD-VszOJkmsX-YA  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rorketdenver/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rorkedenverauthor/  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

What if calories aren’t the whole story? In the realm of nutrition and health, the traditional belief has been that counting calories is the ultimate key to managing one’s diet effectively. But what if we told you calories might not be the key to a healthy diet? Delving beyond the calorie count, this question encourages us to explore the multifaceted elements that influence our health and well-being, such as food quality, nutrient content, and individual genetic factors. Giles Yeo, a biologist and professor of molecular neuroendocrinology at the Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, and scientific director of the Genomics/Transcriptomics Core at the University of Cambridge, challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding weight management.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Giles to shed light on the importance of food quality, nutrient partitioning, and the role of genetics in our individual responses to diet and exercise. His perspective invites us to reevaluate our approach to nutrition, weight loss, considering a more holistic view of health that goes beyond calorie counting. Topics include: What sparked Giles’ interest in the genetics of obesity and body weight Giles explains what influences body weight and health The importance of educating children about nutrition and healthy choices Giles shares the impact of bariatric surgery Why it matters to maintain muscle mass while losing weight The crucial role of resistance training to preserve muscle and overall health And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.  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.  Connect with Giles: LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/giles-yeo-2062969 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gilesyeo/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/GilesYeo  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/giles.yeo/  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