The Greatness Machine

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. What if understanding how we remember could influence what we choose to remember? Memory is more than just a mental archive of the past; it is a dynamic process that shapes the present and the future. Understanding how we remember-or fail to recall-can have a significant impact on how we choose to preserve and prioritize our experiences. Exploring the science of memory can help us not only understand why certain moments remain with us, but can also help us enhance our ability to remember important events. Charan Ranganath, a leading expert in cognitive neuroscience, shares how the science of memory can help us focus on what truly matters in our lives and improve our ability to retain meaningful experiences. Through his book, Why We Remember: Unlocking Memory’s Power to Hold on to What Matters, he discusses how memories shape our lives and how we can harness this understanding to preserve the moments that matter most.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Charan Ranganath to talk about the essence of memory and its impact on our lives. This conversation will also reveal how we can optimize our memory to focus on the most important things and events, from managing our digital lives to embracing curiosity.  Topics include: Charan discusses the imperfections of memory The connection between memory and emotion Charan debunks the myth of photographic memory The brain’s overlap between memory and imagination How social interactions can shape memory accuracy The role of intention in strengthening memory Memory as a reconstructed experience Reframing memories for personal growth Enhancing presence and focus by eliminating distractions And other topics… Connect with Charan: Website: https://charanranganath.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charan-ranganath-1a1aa41bb  Twitter: https://twitter.com/charanranganath/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thememorydoc/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Why-We-Remember-Unlocking-Memorys-ebook/dp/B0C5VBNG4Y  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 Sponsors: Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Go to Quince.com/greatness for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How would your life change if you committed yourself to a greater purpose? Living a committed life is like embarking on a thrilling adventure full of challenges, rewards, and self-discovery. It’s about making a solemn promise to ourselves or others to pursue a particular goal or purpose with passion and determination. Not only does it give us a sense of meaning or purpose, but it also enables us to become the best version of ourselves.  Lynne Twist, an award-winning speaker, author, and global activist, has made the conscious choice to answer her calling, pursue her purpose, and live a committed life.  In fact, she has dedicated her life to promoting environmental sustainability, social justice, and spiritual fulfillment. Her commitment to these causes has inspired millions of people around the world to become more conscious and compassionate global citizens. Having served as a longtime executive of The Hunger Project, Lynne remains a passionate advocate and spokesperson for the cause of eradicating world hunger and empowering women in diverse cultures across the globe. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Lynne talk about the importance of finding your calling, living a committed life, how gratitude can change the way you see the world, and why it matters to seek out opportunities to make an impact.  Topics include: How the Est training transformed Lynne’s life for the better Lynne explains the purpose of Erhard Seminars Training (EST) How gratitude can change your outlook in life The story behind the creation of The Hunger Project  Being committed and dedicated to your calling Lynne explains the term “Source” she used in her books  And other topics… Resource mentioned: Happy Money by Ken Honda: https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Money-Japanese-Making-Peace/dp/1501188372  The Path Made Clear by Oprah Winfrey: https://www.amazon.com/Path-Made-Clear-Discovering-Direction/dp/1250307503  Connect with Lynne: Website: https://soulofmoney.org/  Website: https://pachamama.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnetwist/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Committed-Life-Fulfillment-Yourself/dp/1523093099  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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. 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

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. Enduring intense physical and mental challenges, thriving under pressure, and leading in some of the most high-stakes situations imaginable—this is the life of a Navy SEAL.  But how does someone take those life experiences and transform them into riveting stories on the page? Jack Carr, a former Navy SEAL turned New York Times bestselling author, shares how he transitioned from the battlefield to the writing desk. With years of combat experience, he draws from his military roots to deliver gripping stories through his books “True Believer,” “The Terminal List,” “Red Sky Mourning” and more.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Jack Carr to talk about his journey from Navy SEAL to following his dream of becoming a writer. They discuss the mental and physical challenges of SEAL training, the role of teamwork, and the power of continuous growth as a leader. Jack also reveals his literary influences and how he manifests success through hard work and perseverance.  This conversation will uncover the mindset, discipline, and strategies that helped Jack overcome extreme adversity and ultimately succeed in two incredibly demanding arenas. Topics include: Jack reflects on his military roots and sources of inspiration Motivations that fueled Jack through the toughest moments of SEAL training Insights into SEAL missions involving direct combat operations Balancing mental and physical toughness during SEAL training How facing hardship and adversity builds resilience for real-life challenges The role of teamwork and mental strength in achieving success The importance of continuous improvement as both a leader and operator Jack’s transition to writing, influenced by books like The Most Dangerous Game Jack talks about his first nonfiction work Targeted: Beirut The impact of hard work in manifesting success And other topics… Connect with Jack: Website: https://www.officialjackcarr.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackcarrusa/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jackcarrusa  Books: https://www.officialjackcarr.com/books/  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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. How do people see you, and more importantly, how do you see yourself? The way others treat us reflects their perception of us, but how we respond shows how we perceive ourselves. Being able to recognize and own this dynamic is key to building strong relationships - both personal and professional. Today, I am flying solo for the 300th episode of The Greatness Machine! To celebrate, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on a profound life lesson I recently learned. It is all about how people treat you based on their perception of you, and how your response is a mirror or your self-view. Despite being simple, this concept has the power to transform the way we engage with others and understand ourselves. In this episode, I explore the deep insights around power dynamics in relationships, the role of curiosity in self-reflection, and how we can better align our actions with the identity we wish to project. Through personal stories and practical wisdom, I challenge you to take stock of how you are showing up in your own life and how to leverage self-awareness for more authentic connections. Topics include: Darius talks about the power of perception in how others treat you The importance of self-awareness and curious responses Darius shares personal story about setting boundaries in business The value of authenticity in personal and professional relationships Darius encourages curiosity about how others perceive you The crucial role of authenticity in creating leverage and opening opportunities 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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. Gary Henderson, a seasoned digital marketing professional with over 10 years of experience in the industry, has worked with various clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, helping them grow their online presence and achieve their marketing goals. Joining us on The Greatness Machine, Gary shares his deep understanding of the latest digital marketing trends, and techniques, and how to use them to drive results. In this episode, Darius and Gary talk about digital marketing, building strong client relationships, the rise of digital currencies, and what the future looks like for the creator economy. Topics include: How Gary started helping creators monetize their personal brands  Understanding your audience and having a strategic approach to marketing Building strong client relationships by providing a concierge-style service Understanding the reasons why people buy How to get your marketing cut through the noise The benefits of stepping outside of your comfort zone What is Gary Coin and how it works Gary looks back on founding the Giraffe Tower NFT project What Gary thinks the creator economy looks like in the future The rise of digital currencies and the ability to operate in a global space around the clock The benefits of using tokens instead of fiat currency to pay for products and services And other topics… Resources mentioned: Steal Like An Artist: https://www.amazon.com/Steal-Like-Artist-Things-Creative/dp/0761169253  Layered Money: https://www.amazon.com/Layered-Money-Dollars-Bitcoin-Currencies/dp/1736110527  Connect with Gary: Website: https://gary.club/welcome  Website: https://www.digitalmarketing.org/  LinkedIn: https://pr.linkedin.com/in/garyhenderson 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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. What are you doing in your life to pour love into others and make a meaningful impact? We often focus on our own goals and challenges in the rush of daily life. But what if the key to unlocking true fulfillment and success lies in how we pour love and generosity into those around us? John Ruhlin, the mastermind behind Giftology, dedicated his life to revolutionizing the way we think about giving. Through his book, Giftology, and his company, Giftology Group, he taught us that gifting is not just about the object itself, but about the thoughtfulness and intention behind it. John’s philosophy emphasized the power of radical generosity to build deeper relationships and create lasting impacts. In this heartfelt episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius reflects on the profound influence of his late friend and mentor, John Ruhlin. John’s commitment to radical generosity not only transformed Darius’s life but also set a new standard for meaningful connections and impactful giving.  As we remember John’s legacy, Darius encourages listeners to examine their own lives and consider how they can pour love into others through acts of generosity. Join us in celebrating John’s memory and exploring the powerful effects of giving from the heart. Topics include: The impact of Giftology and its role in cultivating lasting connections Darius shares a personal story about John’s thoughtful replacement of a broken gift The importance of embracing radical generosity And other topics… Website: https://giftologygroup.com/  Giftology Book: https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332  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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. How does the wisdom and resilience of past generations shape our ability to succeed in today's rapidly changing world? In a world of rapid change and easy access to information, the younger generations often feel disconnected from the resilience forged by their predecessors. This disconnect raises important questions about how we can bridge the gap and keep the lessons of the past in mind as we move forward. Leonard Brody, a prominent entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author, shares his insights on the challenges faced by today’s generation, the importance of resilience, and the role of entrepreneurs in shaping a better future.  He opens up about his own journey and the ways in which his family’s experiences have shaped his worldview and approach to business. Leonard also discusses how the lack of direct experience with global-scale trauma in younger generations might affect their resilience and perspectives. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Leonard Brody to talk about the modern entrepreneurial landscape and the importance of bridging the gap between economic realities and personal resilience. The conversation touches on the role of entrepreneurs in addressing societal challenges and mitigating the risks of radicalization and economic disenfranchisement. Topics include: The profound impact of a knowledgeable mentor on one’s career Balancing authenticity with reputation management Leonard reflects on early entrepreneurial challenges The role of luck and timing in achieving success Aligning business goals with personal life objectives Generational differences in worldview between older and younger entrepreneurs The responsibility of successful entrepreneurs in addressing societal gaps And other topics… Connect with Leonard: Website: https://hellocaravan.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lbrody Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lbrody/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lbrody 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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. How far would you go to achieve your dreams? Are you willing to burn the boats and give it your all to get to where you want to be? Matt Higgins, an American entrepreneur, author, and Co-Founder and CEO of RSE Ventures, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about how he went from scraping gum off the chairs in a New York City McDonald's to becoming a successful entrepreneur, investor, and media executive.  Despite starting from humble beginnings, his hard work and determination led him to executive positions at major sports organizations, including the New York Jets and the NHL. In fact, Matt drew inspiration from his tough childhood in writing “Burn the Boats: Toss Plan B Overboard and Unleash Your Full Potential.” In his book, Matt explains how the strategy of fully committing to a goal and eliminating the option of retreat can create a sense of urgency and focus, driving individuals toward achieving their goals. It provides valuable insights and strategies for overcoming fear and uncertainty and taking bold action toward achieving one's goals. In this episode, Matt and Darius talk about the importance of finding our leverageable assets and using them to our advantage, the principle of compounding, the effects of family caregiving, and a lot more. Topics include: Matt explains what the term “burn the boats” means and its origin What “Burn the Boats” is all about and who it is written for Finding your leverageable assets and using them to achieve your goals Matt shares switching from the mayor’s office to law school The impact of becoming a family caregiver on Matt  Matt looks back on working as press secretary for Mayor Rudy Giuliani The magic of compounding in achieving professional success And other topics… Resource mentioned: The Power of One More: https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363  Connect with Matt: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-higgins-rse/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mhiggins/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Burn-Boats-Overboard-Unleash-Potential/dp/006308886X 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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. In this special episode of The Greatness Machine, I embark on a culinary journey with my mom, Susan, who is sharing the cherished family heirloom recipe for her remarkable red sauce pasta. This isn't just another cooking show; it's a heartwarming tale of preserving traditions and passing on a culinary legacy from one generation to another. Ingredients: Two 91-ounce cans of Carmelina whole peeled tomatoes  One small tomato paste One-pound ground turkey ½ of a slab of St. Louis pork ribs Three bone-in chicken thighs One medium white onion Six cloves of garlic ½ a bunch of Italian parsley Romano cheese (pulverized) ¼ cup of fennel seed ½ teaspoon of red pepper chili flakes Seven turns of the pepper mill ¼ cup of oregano 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 Sponsors: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/MACHINE and get on your way to being your best self. What if you had the power to save a life with just one decision? Imagine being given the opportunity to offer someone a second chance, to become a lifeline in their darkest hour. This act of generosity goes beyond mere kindness—it is a courageous decision that changes lives.  As the only organ in the human body that can regenerate itself, the liver allows living donors to donate part of their liver while still maintaining their own full liver function.  Joining us on The Greatness Machine is David Galbenski, an individual who has not only embraced this life-saving cause but has dedicated himself to advocating for it. His story is one of inspiration and purpose, and through his efforts with the Living Liver Foundation, David is making a profound impact on countless lives, inspiring others to consider the life-saving potential of becoming a living donor. In this episode, David takes us through his transformative journey from a successful entrepreneur to a passionate advocate for liver donation. He shares his personal story of becoming a living liver donor, the challenges he faced, and the profound impact it had on his life. We delve into the mission of the Living Liver Foundation, which David founded to raise awareness and support for those considering liver donation. Through candid reflections and powerful insights, David sheds light on the importance of organ donation, the lives it saves, and the enduring legacy of compassion it creates. Topics include: David reflects on his pivot from law to entrepreneurship and founding Lumen Legal The critical role of persistence and passion in entrepreneurial success Valuable lessons learned from navigating rapid growth and economic downturns The benefits of adopting an abundance mindset when facing challenges David highlights the importance of living in the moment David talks about the inspiration behind starting Living Liver Foundation Advocating for increased awareness and participation in living organ donation The significance of mindset in overcoming negativity And other topics… Connect with David: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgalbenski/ Website: https://livingliver.org/  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 Sponsors: Indeed - Just go to indeed.com/darius right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Timeline - Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GREATNESS. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices