The Greatness Machine

In a year of profound challenges and personal growth, Darius Mirshahzadeh takes a moment to reflect on the invaluable lessons learned and the power of resilience. In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, he dives into the importance of embracing life's preciousness, and the role rituals play in grounding us during uncertain times. Darius explores the friction we often encounter within ourselves, how it can lead to self-deception, and the reality that goals and dreams come with their own set of obstacles. He discusses the concept of humility, the Dunning-Kruger effect, and why it is vital to approach life with a sense of curiosity and openness. With a focus on empathy, Darius shares how shifting our mindset to see others as humans can deepen our connections.  In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Welcome to 2025: Reflections and Gratitude (02:22) The Importance of Rituals and Life's Preciousness (04:43) Navigating Friction and Self-Deception (08:02) Goals and the Reality of Life's Challenges (12:20) Embracing Resilience and Personal Growth (16:10) Lessons Learned: Humility and the Dunning-Kruger Effect (20:05) Seeing Others as Humans: The Outward Mindset (21:58) No Free Lunches: Understanding Costs and Commitments Sponsored by: Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.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

After an extensive career in the financial industry, Matthew now serves as a key figure at Pathstone, where he leads with a commitment to integrity, strategy, and client-first solutions. In this episode, Matthew shares insights from his journey at Pathstone, diving into the firm’s unique approach to wealth management and how they’re reshaping the financial landscape. He discusses the lessons he has learned about building trust with clients, leading teams with purpose, and adapting to the ever-evolving financial world. Matthew also reflects on how Pathstone's client-centric model continues to drive long-term success and create lasting impact for families and institutions alike. In this episode, Darius and Matthew will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Pathstone and Matt Fleissig (02:02) Matt's Journey: From Computer Nerd to Wealth Management (05:55) The Birth of Pathstone: Vision and Early Days (09:57) Understanding Family Offices and Pathstone's Unique Model (14:05) Client Profiles: Ultra High Net Worth and Family Offices (18:01) Innovative Services: Unbundling Wealth Management (21:47) Scaling the Business: Technology and Automation (26:00) Entrepreneurial Growth: Pathstone's Rapid Expansion (30:12) Maintaining Vision: M&A and Future Directions (30:42) Understanding Wealth Management Scale (34:06) The Evolution of Leadership in Growing Firms (35:15) Reinventing Leadership for Growth (38:32) The Role of Private Equity in Growth (40:28) Creating a Culture of Ownership (48:22) Integrating Diverse Talents and Cultures (54:34) Future Trends in Wealth Management Matthew Fleissig is the CEO and co-founder of Pathstone, The Family Office, serving families, family offices, and foundations. He leads the firm’s strategic vision and innovation and serves on the Investment Oversight Committee and Executive Leadership Team. Previously, Matt was President of Pathstone and held roles at Harris myCFO and The Ayco Company, advising high-net-worth clients on investments and financial planning. Connect with Matthew: Website: https://www.pathstone.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleissig/  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 steps can you take to turn your aspirations into reality and move from where you are right now to where you truly want to be? Reaching your desired destination from your current position is an exciting and transformative endeavor. It requires a combination of vision, determination, effective decision-making, and actionable techniques. Katy Milkman, through her book How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, introduces various psychological concepts, such as habits, motivation, and self-control, and explains how these factors impact our ability to make lasting changes. Drawing from her expertise as a behavioral scientist and professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Katy provides readers with practical insights and techniques for transforming their lives. Throughout the book, she highlights the significance of self-reflection and self-awareness in the change process. Katy also encourages readers to identify their own patterns, biases, and obstacles, offering strategies to overcome them and cultivate new habits that align with their aspirations. In this episode, Darius and Katy engage in a captivating conversation covering a range of topics. They explore how Katy's passion for research ignited during her undergraduate studies and delve into the motivations behind her pursuit of behavioral economics. Katy opens up about her purpose in writing her book, How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be. They discuss the power of fresh starts and how they can enhance motivation, the importance of well-planned methodologies and tools for achieving success, the benefits of temptation bundling, and the effectiveness of commitment devices in increasing productivity. Topics include: How Katy discovered her passion for research during her undergraduate studies What motivated Katy to pursue and embrace research and behavioral economics Katy shares her purpose for writing How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be The power of fresh starts and how they boost your motivation The importance of having a well-planned methodology and tools to achieve success Substantial benefits of temptation bundling Using a commitment device to get more things done And other topics… Connect with Katy: Website: https://www.katymilkman.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-milkman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katymilkman/ 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 Sponsored by: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Mint Mobile - Cut your wireless bill to $15 a month at MINT MOBILE.com/great. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-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

In a fast-paced world driven by ambition and endless to-do lists, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters. In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives deep into the power of forgiveness, gratitude, and living with intention. Sharing personal reflections, Darius introduces the transformative practice of the Ho’oponopono prayer—an ancient Hawaiian practice for forgiveness and reconciliation that fosters healing and inner peace. He explores how aligning our actions with our values can create meaningful impact and how embracing vulnerability allows us to show up fully for ourselves and others. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Reflections on 2024: A Year of Change (07:23) Navigating Relationships: The Importance of Showing Up (16:01) Practicing Forgiveness: The Ho'oponopono Prayer (19:24) Gratitude and Life's Little Moments Sponsored by: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Mint Mobile - Cut your wireless bill to $15 a month at MINT MOBILE.com/great. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-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

Don Jose Ruiz, a bestselling author and spiritual teacher, shares insights from his rich Toltec heritage, emphasizing personal transformation through ancient wisdom. He discusses the significance of breaking free from limiting beliefs and the journey of self-discovery. Key topics include the Four Agreements, the power of consciousness, and the importance of skepticism in fostering authenticity. Jose also touches on overcoming addiction, nurturing well-being, and the role of gratitude in leading a fulfilling life, inspiring listeners to embrace their true selves.

How can individuals transform their expertise into a powerful force for positive change, shaping industries and leaving a lasting impact on the world? Henk Rogers, a video game icon turned climate change activist, is dedicated to creating positive change through technology and renewable energy. As the founder of the Blue Planet Foundation, he actively promotes the advancement of clean energy policies and technologies. He is a strong proponent of utilizing renewable sources like solar and wind power to combat climate change and achieve energy independence. In addition to his work in the renewable energy sector, Henk continues to be involved in the gaming industry. He co-founded The Tetris Company, which manages the intellectual property rights of Tetris, and has been instrumental in expanding the reach and influence of the game across various platforms. In this episode, Darius and Henk discuss the factors that contributed to the massive success of The Black Onyx as the pioneering role-playing game in Japan. They also delve into Henk’s four missions in life, emphasizing his commitment to creating positive change through technology, sustainability, and the power of human potential. Topics include: What contributed to the huge success of The Black Onyx as the first role-playing game in Japan The impact of discovering and acquiring the rights to the game Tetris How Henk got involved in the Tetris movie How a near-death experience has made Henk realize what he wants to accomplish Founding Blue Planet Foundation and building awareness for clean energy Henk shares his four missions in life And other topics… Connect with Henk: Website: https://blueplanetalliance.org/  Website: https://henkrogers.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henkrogers/ 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 Sponsored by: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Mint Mobile - Cut your wireless bill to $15 a month at MINT MOBILE.com/great. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-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 find yourself grappling with the idea of exploring various opportunities versus staying committed to a single path for long-term success? In the third installment of this compelling series, join me as I focus on a crucial lesson: “The game is long, but you need to stay to win it.” Reflecting on my experiences as a CEO and entrepreneur, I discuss the pitfalls of job hopping and share insights on the power of consistency in the world of business and entrepreneurship. Drawing inspiration from legendary figures like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, known for their long-term thinking, I emphasize the importance of finding the right game to play in your career.  Tune in to uncover the secrets of creating exponential values, seizing opportunities, ang thriving in the long game of business.  Topics include: The importance of staying committed to a path for long-term success The value of consistency in personal and professional endeavors The benefits of staying in a chosen game or industry for an extended period The importance of aligning one’s personality with the characteristics of a chosen industry The necessity of continuously learning and adapting to changes in the chosen field 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://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine⁠  Book: The Core Value Equation ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Sponsored by: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Mint Mobile - Cut your wireless bill to $15 a month at MINT MOBILE.com/great. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-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

From redefining comic book storytelling with “Spawn” to revolutionizing the toy industry, Todd McFarlane's creative journey is nothing short of legendary. In this episode, Todd shares the incredible story of how he built a global empire by breaking industry rules and trusting his vision. Todd dives into the challenges he faced while disrupting both the comic and toy industries, the lessons he learned as an entrepreneur, and the passion that drives his storytelling. He also opens up about the importance of perseverance, staying true to your creative instincts, and the mindset required to succeed in any venture. In this episode, Darius and Todd will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Todd McFarlane (02:04) Todd's Journey into Comic Books (08:03) The Birth of Image Comics (14:24) Challenges of Starting a New Venture (19:50) Reflections on Success and Independence (21:48) The Bold Move: Leaving Marvel for Independence (27:34) The Rise of Image Comics and Spawn (33:12) Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Art (39:21) The Impact of AI on the Creative Industry (44:49) The Power of Focus and Longevity (49:39) Navigating the Giants: Finding Your Niche (52:13) The Importance of Personality in Entrepreneurship (57:04) Embracing Fearlessness and Authenticity (1:01:03) Advocating for Yourself and Taking Risks Todd McFarlane is a Canadian comic book creator and entrepreneur best known for his work on “The Amazing Spider-Man” and as the creator of “Spawn.” A co-founder and President of Image Comics, he revolutionized the industry by championing creator-owned properties. Todd’s “Spawn” debuted in 1992, selling a record 1.7 million copies and cementing his legacy as a visionary in comics and entertainment. Sponsored by: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Mint Mobile - Cut your wireless bill to $15 a month at MINT MOBILE.com/great. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Connect with Todd: Website: https://mcfarlane.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liketoddmcfarlane/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toddmcfarlane/ 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

Jack Daly, an expert sales trainer and coaching professional, shares his incredible journey from entrepreneurship to leading authority on personal growth. He discusses the importance of designing a life that aligns with one's aspirations. Jack emphasizes goal-setting, the transformative power of self-talk, and balancing ambition with personal fulfillment. Through personal anecdotes, he highlights resilience in overcoming challenges and the significance of nurturing intentional choices for lasting success. Tune in for insights on crafting a life you love!

Have you ever stopped to ponder how the roles you play in life shape your identity and, ultimately, the mark you leave on the world? How we define our identity is a complex and ever-evolving process. It is not merely a single label or job title, but a multifaceted tapestry of experiences, roles, and characteristics that make us who we are. How we define our identity ultimately shapes our perspective on life, influences our choices, and guides our interactions with the world.  In this second installment of our series, I will draw upon my personal experiences to delve into the concept of identity and its pivotal role in our lives. I will share how I have navigated the intricate landscape of self-discovery, highlighting moments that have shaped my understanding of identity.  Together, we will explore the diverse facets that make up our identities and learn from my experiences how to embrace the complexity of who we are.  Topics include: What makes up your identity and true essence as a person Why it matters to explore and invest in other interests and passions beyond your business 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://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine⁠  Book: The Core Value Equation ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Sponsored by: Constant Contact - Go to ConstantContact.com and start your FREE trial today. Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Mint Mobile - Cut your wireless bill to $15 a month at MINT MOBILE.com/great. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-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