The Greatness Machine

What makes a great business partner, and how can you actually measure it? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius continues his deep dive into The Best Partner Scorecard, a tool he created to help entrepreneurs, founders, and leaders assess the people they go into business with. After exploring the first five traits in part one, Darius now unpacks the remaining five qualities that separate great partners from good ones. He explains how these traits shape trust, communication, and alignment, and why overlooking them can lead to costly mistakes. Drawing from real experiences, Darius shows how the right partnership can accelerate growth while the wrong one can derail even the best ideas. Part 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/387-the-best-partner-scorecard-how-to-evaluate-your/id1555334180?i=1000734370314  In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the Good Partner Scorecard (02:29) Exploring the First Five Qualities of Great Partners (04:44) Integrity and Honesty in Partnerships (09:38) Building Trust and Loyalty (15:01) The Importance of Kindness in Business Relationships (20:05) Caring About Personal Lives: A Key to Partnership (24:34) Aligning Work Styles and Values for Success Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.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 your emotions, habits, and even your worldview are simply the result of where you’ve trained your mind to go? In this thought-provoking episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Hindu priest, entrepreneur, and former monk Dandapani for a powerful conversation about awareness, energy, reincarnation, and emotional mastery. Dandapani explains how most people live life unconsciously, letting their awareness drift into anger, distraction, or fear—when in truth, we can train our awareness to dwell in peace, gratitude, and purpose. In this episode, Darius and Dandapani will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Reconnection (04:12) The Journey to Monastic Life (09:37) Understanding Reincarnation and Past Lives (17:31) The Mind and Awareness (22:47) The Power of Unwavering Focus (25:07) Navigating the Mind Mansion (26:46) Awareness vs. Mind: A Parent's Lesson (29:14) Harnessing Anger: A Double-Edged Sword (32:04) Reincarnation and Historical Patterns (36:20) The Cycle of Anger and Energy (41:23) Teaching Resilience to the Next Generation (47:17) Finding Purpose Through Self-Reflection (51:41) The Challenge of Stillness and Self-Discovery (56:49) Accepting Ourselves: The Journey of Self-Compassion (01:02:56) Elevating Consciousness in Leadership (01:09:56) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness   Dandapani is a Hindu priest, entrepreneur, and former monk who spent ten years in a traditional monastery under the guidance of Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami. Blending ancient Hindu wisdom with practical modern tools, he helps people cultivate focus, discipline, and self-mastery. His book “The Power of Unwavering Focus” has been translated into 23 languages, and his teachings have reached audiences worldwide, from entrepreneurs to global organizations like Nike and Bloomberg. He currently lives in Costa Rica, where he’s creating a 33-acre spiritual sanctuary dedicated to reflection and transformation. Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Dandapani: Website: https://dandapani.org/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dandapanillc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DandapaniLLC/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Unwavering-Focus-Dandapani/dp/0593420454  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

How do you navigate the steepest slopes of mental health challenge and merge stronger than ever? Just like traversing a mountain, overcoming mental health obstacles requires preparation, resilience, and a solid support system.  Drew Peterson, a professional skier and mental health advocate, has faced some of the most treacherous terrains, but his toughest battles were fought within his own mind. His journey is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of addressing mental health with the same dedication and care as any physical challenge. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Drew to open up about his struggles with mental health, his near-suicidal experiences, and the pivotal moments that led him to seek help and ultimately, find a path to recovery. Drew will also talk about his newest film, “Feel It All,” which documents his successful ultramarathon attempt.  Topics include: Drew talks about his professional journey and becoming a skier at 15 Breaking the stigma around mental health and suicide through films Raising awareness and promoting mental health within the outdoor sports community Drew shares how his passion for storytelling started The importance of teamwork in creative endeavors Drew discusses his short film “Ups & Downs” and the message it aims to convey The importance of embracing the continuous cycle of ups and downs in life Drew gives a sneak peek into his newest film “Feel It All” And other topics… Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Drew: Website: https://drew-petersen.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewpeterski/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drewpeterski/ Campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1786995813/feel-it-all/  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 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. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Exploring Stoicism and Premeditatio Malorum (11:48) Resilience and the Journey of Starting Over (18:14) Embracing Risk and the Sweet Juice of Life Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.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 turn a struggling company into a global powerhouse? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with turnaround legend Peter Cuneo, the executive who helped lead Marvel Entertainment from bankruptcy to becoming one of the most successful entertainment empires in history. Peter opens up about the leadership principles that guided Marvel’s transformation, from rebuilding top creative talent and setting a clear strategic direction to fostering a culture of accountability and innovation. He shares how focusing on people, discipline, and long-term vision can turn even the most distressed companies into thriving, purpose-driven organizations. In this episode, Darius and Peter will discuss: Peter talks about rebuilding Marvel by bringing back top creative talent He emphasizes disciplined, strategic leadership in every turnaround The importance of a strong culture in driving long-term success Peter shares lessons on decision-making under pressure Developing future leaders through experience and mentorship The value of perseverance and clear purpose in business recovery And other topics… Peter Cuneo is an American businessman renowned for his leadership in corporate turnarounds across the media and consumer products industries. Best known for revitalizing major brands, he served as CEO of Remington Products and as Vice Chairman of Marvel Entertainment, where he helped steer the company from bankruptcy to a $4 billion sale to Disney. Over his career, Cuneo has successfully completed seven major business turnarounds, including at Clairol, Black & Decker, and Marvel. He later founded Cuneo & Company, an investment firm focused on consumer, media, and entertainment ventures, achieving notable successes such as a 13x return on the sale of Valiant Entertainment. He has also held leadership roles on several corporate boards and, in 2024, became Chairman of OCSiAl, a nanotechnology company based in Luxembourg. Sponsored by:  Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Peter: Website: https://www.petercuneo.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-cuneo/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Superhero-Leadership-Courage-Strength-Compassion/dp/1510783849  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/superhero-leadership-with-peter-cuneo/id1706007621  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

How can you go from just being a leader to being a truly inspirational leader? To transition from merely being a leader to one who truly inspires, it is necessary to understand the dynamics of influence and impact. Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, a luminary in the realm of leadership and executive coaching, discusses key principles that can facilitate this transformation. It starts with recognizing the power of intentionality in communication and decision-making. Inspirational leaders, as Marshall highlights, pause to consider whether their actions align with the goal of making a positive difference. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Marshall to delve into the nuances of effective leadership. Through insightful anecdotes and practical wisdom, Marshall elucidates the importance of making a positive difference, fostering trust, and embracing self-awareness on the journey toward greatness in leadership. Topics include: Influencing decisions through understanding and addressing the needs of others Making positive difference rather than proving oneself right The crucial role of honoring other people’s perspectives Embracing the uncertainties in business and being open to other possibilities Being ready to adapt and willing to acknowledge mistakes Being cautious about out-of-hours emails or messages The importance of purposeful communication Recognizing and de-stigmatizing self-interest in business Encouraging long-term planning but understanding the practical challenges And other topics… Sponsored by:  Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Marshall: Website: https://marshallgoldsmith.com/ Website: https://marshallgoldsmith.ai/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshallgoldsmith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachgoldsmith/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/coachgoldsmith/ 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 makes a business partnership work, and what quietly tears it apart? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into the hidden dynamics that can build or break partnerships. He explains that success isn’t just about shared goals or profits but about true alignment. Through the idea of “scorecards,” Darius shows how partners can unknowingly measure success in completely different ways. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial experiences, he highlights why clarity, transparency, and shared values are key, and how defining a common scorecard can keep partnerships strong and thriving. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Scaling a Business (02:56) The Importance of Choosing the Right Partners (06:11) Characteristics of Great Business Partners (11:56) Generosity in Partnerships (14:48) Staying in Your Swim Lane (19:06) Understanding Give and Take in Partnerships (22:49) Seeking Consensus in Decision Making Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.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 stay strong, sharp, and healthy for life? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, fitness entrepreneur and transformation coach Dan Go joins Darius to share how discipline, mindset, and strength training can change not just your body, but your entire life. From quitting his corporate job to building a 7-figure coaching business, Dan breaks down the principles of lasting fitness: why building muscle is key to longevity, how nutrition is deeply psychological, and why success in health (and life) starts with consistency over perfection. He also reveals the surprising connection between leg strength and brain power, his no-BS take on mobility work, and the “infinite game” mindset that keeps him growing no matter how far he’s come. In this episode, Darius and Dan will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Fitness Goals and Transformation (09:15) Dan Go's Personal Journey and Transformation (14:32) The Evolution of Fitness Coaching and Social Media (22:23) Target Audience and Coaching Philosophy (26:35) The Role of AI in Fitness Coaching (31:16) Aging and Its Impact on Fitness (34:35) Emerging Technologies in Health and Wellness (39:55) The Importance of Muscular Health (47:10) Nutrition: The Key to Body Transformation (53:39) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Dan Go is a fitness entrepreneur, performance coach, and founder of High Performance Founder, where he helps entrepreneurs optimize their health to match their ambitions. With over two decades in the fitness industry, he’s known for his practical, no-nonsense approach to training and lifestyle design, empowering high achievers to boost energy, focus, and longevity so they can thrive in both business and life. Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Connect with Dan: Website: https://www.dango.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danfounder/ Twitter: https://x.com/FitFounder/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEzSFZRs8zJb5x5depOtUHA  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 balance the adrenaline rush of hurtling down a bobsled track with the discipline of military service, all while aiming for Olympic gold? Riley Tejcek, a support specialist at Expeditionary Warfare School at the Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia, exemplifies resilience, ambition, and unwavering dedication as she navigates the dual worlds of elite athletics and military service.  While striving to become the first female Marine to compete in the Olympics, Riley navigates the challenges of training, competition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, all while breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Riley to talk about her journey as an athlete and a captain in the Marine Corps. This episode will also explore her path to becoming an Olympic hopeful, overcoming self-doubt, and achieving greatness in both sports and military service. Topics include: The importance of pushing boundaries, taking risks, and embracing challenges The most common challenges for athletes pursuing niche sports Riley provides a concise overview of bobsledding, the intense speeds, and danger Riley looks back at the adrenaline-filled experience of her first time in a bobsled The physical toll of bobsledding and the effects of G-Forces on the body Riley talks about the rigorous selection process to secure a spot on the Olympic team Riley discusses her unexpected path into the military Riley reflects on her experience participating in the Miss Military 2023 pageant The benefits of overcoming self-doubt by taking bold steps And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  Connect with Riley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/riley-tejcek-b264902b9  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riley.tejcek/ 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

Life 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: (00:00) Introduction to Stoicism and Personal Journey (01:27) Seven Stoic Principles for a Better Life (02:48) The Importance of Not Complaining (05:14) Avoiding Comparison with Others (07:37) The Power of Listening (10:29) Judgment and Empathy (12:51) Finding Balance and Temperance (16:45) Energy and Living a Good Life (18:39) Reflections on Life Experiences Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  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