The Greatness Machine

Ever wondered how million-dollar deals happen behind closed doors?CL Turner, III, Founder and Managing Partner of Crescendo Capital Partners, underlines the critical role of building personal connections with founder-owner operators in private equity transactions, making it clear that it is more than just business; it is personal. He explains how the private equity industry goes beyond simply closing deals and focuses on building personal relationships. Drawing from his own life experiences and the firm’s winning formula, CL reveals their unique strategy at Crescendo Capital Partners of convincing business owners to sell below market rates, offering them a second bite at the apple. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and CL talk about the dynamic world of private equity and the art of thriving in it, highlighting the significance of hard work and determination in becoming a successful figure in the industry. The interview takes an unexpected turn as CL shares his passion for creating music and the joy he finds in serendipitous moments. Topics include: What inspired CL to start Crescendo Capital Partners CL talks about his passion for music and his plans to release songs every year Transitioning from an intermediary to a principal in the investment world Why it is important to assess the malleability of founder-operators  CL shares three key elements to succeed in private equity And other topics… Connect with CL:Website: https://crescendocap.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-l-turner-iii-07915a2Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cl.turneriii/ Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoompdarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 anxiety, unable to enjoy the present, and haunted by fears of the future and regrets of the past. Stripped of his usual distractions, he was forced to sit with his thoughts and emotions—leading to a profound realization about ego, identity, and the illusion of control.In this episode, Darius will discuss:(00:00) Introduction to Personal Transformation(02:49) The Struggle with Anxiety(06:10) The Turning Point in Oaxaca(11:58) Discovering New PerspectivesSponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.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://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Howard Behar, former President of Starbucks International, delves into the essence of people-first leadership. He shares insights on authenticity and vulnerability, highlighting their importance in fostering strong teams. Howard reflects on his immigrant roots and the lessons learned from community values that shaped his leadership style. He emphasizes the need for patience and long-term thinking in business, while also addressing the challenges of rapid organizational growth. With his wealth of experience, Howard offers a masterclass in impactful leadership.

Ever wondered how to reboot your life’s operating system for boundless success and purpose?In a world filled with challenges, demands, and distractions, many of us have experienced moments when we yearn for a fresh start, a way to unleash our full potential and discover true success and purpose.But how can one truly reboot their life's operating system to reach new heights and fulfill their dreams?The answer might lie in a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. Mike Koenigs, a bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, speaker, and interactive online personality and influencer, takes a look back at that time when he had a transformative experience that turned his life around. He emphasizes the importance of shedding limiting beliefs, and seeking coaching and also underlines the significance of fostering connections with remarkable people.In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Mike Koenigs cover essential topics, including maximizing value creation, understanding personal strengths, transformative experiences, and the power of storytelling. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and building a strong personal brand.Topics include: Maximizing value creation and avoiding unnecessary work The importance of understanding one’s strengths and tendencies Mike shares his transformative experience that changed his life The importance of seeking coaching, being part of groups, and attending events to expand horizons Mike talks about Dan Sullivan’s DOS Framework The value of having a strong personal brand before exiting a business Mike reveals one key to personal growth and happiness The power of crafting a compelling story and how it can transform your life Upgrading your identity and operating system to eliminate self-imposed limitations And other topics… Connect with Mike:Website: https://www.mikekoenigs.com/Website: https://www.paidforlife.com/Website: https://www.referralparty.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekoenigsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikekoenigs/Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeKoenigsReal Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoompdarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. 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 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 many people are listening.In this episode, Darius will discuss:(00:00) Introduction to Podcasting for Networking(02:08) The Journey of The Greatness Machine(05:55) Building Relationships Through Podcasting(11:56) Podcasting as a Sales Tool(16:08) The Future of Podcasting and NetworkingSponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.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://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you raise children to think beyond limits and create meaningful change? Visionary entrepreneur Naveen Jain joins Darius on The Greatness Machine for a fascinating conversation on leadership, innovation, and the power of exponential thinking. He shares how a simple promise led to a $5 billion stock surge, the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship, and why curiosity is the key to solving the world’s biggest challenges. Naveen also reveals his unique approach to parenting—raising children to be problem-solvers rather than rule-followers—and how this mindset has shaped his own success.In this episode, Darius and Naveen will discuss:(00:00) Introduction to Purposeful Living(02:59) Naveen Jain's Journey and Philosophy(06:13) Personalized Health and Nutrition Insights(09:08) Parenting and Raising Entrepreneurial Children(12:00) The Role of Exposure in Child Development(15:00) Fostering Curiosity and Critical Thinking(18:09) Redefining Success and Self-Worth(20:50) The Nature vs. Nurture Debate in Success(33:07) Wealth and Parenting: The Balance of Privilege(35:59) Teaching Kids the Value of Money and Contribution(38:51) Instilling a Sense of Purpose and Service(41:57) Fostering Intellectual Curiosity and Creativity(44:07) The Role of Unconditional Love in Parenting(49:02) Navigating Work-Life Integration as a Parent(51:59) Lessons on Partnerships and Decision-Making(55:04) Final Thoughts: The Importance of Intellectual CuriosityNaveen Jain is an Indian-American entrepreneur and business executive known for founding InfoSpace, which was once one of the largest internet companies in the American Northwest. Following the dot-com bubble crash, he shifted his focus to groundbreaking ventures in space exploration and health technology. He co-founded Moon Express in 2010, where he serves as Executive Chairman, and later founded Viome in 2016, where he is currently the CEO.Listen to the first episode here:https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/304-naveen-jain-part-1-moonshots-and-mindset-why-big/id1555334180?i=1000672328585 Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Connect with Naveen:Website: https://naveenjain.com/Website: https://www.viome.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveenjaininteliusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/naveenjainceo/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Naveen_Jain_CEO Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write 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 how the most successful leaders ignite greatness in their teams?Trey Taylor, a multi-faceted leader holding titles such as Managing Director of Threadneedle, CEO of Taylor Insurance Services, Managing Director of Trinity Blue, and Founding Partner of Ascend Partners, is a living testament to the power of great leadership and the success it breeds. Over his illustrious career, Trey has had to navigate a plethora of challenges on his path to becoming a top-tier CEO.His book, A CEO Only Does Three Things, is a revelatory guide that demystifies the complex role of a Chief Executive Officer. Trey’s work provides a blueprint for achieving leadership excellence and organizational success. He delves into the critical areas that CEOs should focus on to drive their organizations to greater heights. He also offers a fresh perspective on the priorities that truly matter, helping leaders to cut through the noise and clutter that often surround their roles.In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Trey delve into the often challenging journey of achieving greatness as a CEO. They also highlight the importance of managing concentration risk, and the importance of values and culture in attaining success. Topics include: Trey emphasizes the effort and work that goes into making things look easy The importance of letting go of grudges and negative emotions Trey discusses the dangers of concentration risk in business Trey looks back into taking over the family business and becoming the CEO The challenges of becoming a CEO and the lack of resources and guidance available  What motivated Trey to write A CEO Only Does Three Things The importance of defining and tracking results or numbers in an organization The crucial roles of values and culture in achieving success  And other topics… Connect with Taylor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/treytylorTwitter: https://twitter.com/treytylor Book: https://www.amazon.com/CEO-Only-Does-Three-Things/dp/1544517270 Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoompdarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. 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 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 a goal-oriented mindset and a journey-oriented thinking. Drawing from my personal experiences and insightful reflections, I will unpack the importance of creating optional conditions, living by core values, and setting intentions to cultivate a fulfilling life journey.This episode of The Greatness Machine will encourage listeners to explore the richness of the journey, finding meaning, and fulfillment in every step taken. I will also highlight the benefits of breaking free from the treadmill of goal-chasing and cultivating a more fulfilling journey.Topics include: Creating optimal conditions versus obsessing over goals or outcomes The importance of living according to core values The crucial role of setting intentions in achieving personal fulfillment Why it matters to consistently embody who you strive to be in the world And other topics… Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Managing money shouldn’t be complicated—but for many high earners, the traditional wealth management system feels more like a maze than a roadmap to success. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Adam Dell, founder of Domain Money, to explore how financial planning can be simplified for high-earning professionals. Adam shares insights on why traditional wealth management often falls short, the importance of a clear financial roadmap, and how Domain Money is transforming the industry with a transparent, flat-fee approach.In this episode, Darius and Adam will discuss:(00:00 Introduction to Adam Dell and His Journey(04:45) The Evolution of Entrepreneurship(10:12) Navigating Exits and Corporate Transitions(14:58) The Importance of Feedback and Iteration(19:55) Diverse Ventures and Problem Solving(24:50) Wealth Management and Domain Money's Mission(27:20) The Evolution of Wealth Management(30:06) Understanding Domain Money's Target Audience(33:47) Differentiating Domain Money from Traditional Advisors(40:11) The A La Carte Approach to Financial Planning(44:55) Navigating Investment Decisions and Market Trends(49:12) Future Aspirations for Domain MoneyAdam Dell is the Founder and CEO of Domain Money and a serial entrepreneur with four successful exits, including Clarity Money (Goldman Sachs), MessageOne (Dell), Buzzsaw (Autodesk), and Civitas Learning (Francisco Partners). Previously a partner at Goldman Sachs, he led product development for Marcus by Goldman Sachs, launching Marcus Invest, Marcus Checking, and Marcus Insights. Adam has also served as an adjunct professor at Columbia Business School and the University of Texas School of Law. He holds a B.A. from Tulane University and a law degree from the University of Texas.Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Connect with Adam:Website: https://www.domainmoney.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamdell/ Twitter: https://x.com/adamdell Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can a deeper understanding of sex and sexuality empower individuals to enrich their intimate lives and build healthier relationships?Developing a deeper comprehension of human sexuality and intimate connections can pave the way for more fulfilling and healthier relationships, nurturing greater emotional and physical closeness.That is why, Dr. Sadie Allison, a renowned expert in the field of sexual health and wellness, is on a mission to inform and educate about the realm of sexual well-being and relationships. With a diverse portfolio of ventures aimed at enhancing intimacy and pleasure, Dr. Sadie is committed to empowering individuals in their intimate lives.In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius engages in an insightful conversation with Dr. Sadie, exploring her innovative ventures and extensive expertise in the realm of sexual health and wellness. They also delve into the pervasive stigma linked to male vulnerability and sexual performance concerns, emphasizing the need for open dialogues to dispel these issues.Topics include: What inspired Dr. Sadie to write her debut book in 2001 Dr. Sadie discusses the stigma around vulnerability and expressing concerns about sexual performance for men Understanding and exploring your partner's desires and needs is essential for improving sexual experiences The importance of open communication and exploration in intimate relationships to improve sexual experiences The role of sex education and how understanding female anatomy, preferences, and open communication can help bridge the orgasm gap And other topics… Connect with Dr. Sadie:Website: https://golovecbd.com/Website: https://www.ticklekitty.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsadieallisonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sadie.rapsidy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsadieallison/ Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoompdarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices