The Greatness Machine

What does it take to transform a single business purchase into a $300 million enterprise? Creating a $300 million enterprise from a single business purchase requires both strategic vision and effective management. Dave Lamont's journey exemplifies the key elements necessary for such a transformation.  As the CEO of Renfrew Business Group and president of Renfrew Chrysler, Dave emphasizes that success in business starts with mastering the fundamentals. This means understanding the basics of sales, operations, and financial management. For him, running a car dealership successfully involved creating a strong sales organization and not just reacting to market conditions. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Dave to talk about the importance of mastering business fundamentals, the power of mentorship, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge. They will also discuss Dave’s book, Crank It!: A Playbook for Succeeding in Business and Life, where readers will find actionable steps and resources to help them succeed professionally and personally.  Topics include: Dave talks about his background and passion for automotive Acquiring Renfrew Chrysler and thriving through the 2008 economic challenges The importance of being a management-driven rather than market-driven The evolving landscape of the automotive industry  The value of continuous learning and growth at any age Dave discusses his book “Crank It!” and the inspiration behind it Dave shares the challenges of having a learning disability in his youth And other topics… Connect with Dave: Website: https://renfrewchrysler.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-lamont-851a93aa/  Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Crank-Playbook-Succeeding-Business-Life/dp/1544543921  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What should be the next step? In uncertain times, it can be tempting to stand still and wait for things to clear up before making a decision on what your best step forward should be. However, it's important to remember that uncertainty is a natural part of life, and it can also present opportunities for growth and self-discovery. To help you through these times, it is important to practice mindfulness, create a supportive network, remain flexible, focus on progress, seek out new experiences, and maintain a positive outlook. Jeff Henderson, an entrepreneur, speaker, pastor, and business leader, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about his newest book, What to Do Next: Taking Your Best Step When Life is Uncertain. In this episode, Darius and Jeff talk about the power of language in leadership, the importance of networking for your career, and pursuing more meaning and purpose in life and work.  Topics include: What drove Jeff to write his new book What to Do Next The story behind building FOR Gwinnett The power of language to improve leadership Effective steps before taking a big leap Why networking is essential for your career Why it is important to leave your employers on good terms And other topics… Resources mentioned: Traction by Gino Wickman: https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Get-Grip-Your-Business/dp/1936661837 Connect with Jeff: Website: https://jeffhenderson.com/ Book: https://www.whattodonextbook.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefferyehenderson/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefferyhenderson/  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you could have a superpower, what would it be? While the ability to fly or have super strength might be exciting and thrilling, these powers are not necessarily practical or applicable to our everyday lives. So, what could it be? Reading is often referred to as a superpower because it has the potential to transform our lives in many positive ways. It is an incredible tool that can enable us to access knowledge, gain new perspectives, and open ourselves up to new experiences. One of the reasons reading is a superpower is that it allows us to learn from others. When we read books, articles, and other written materials, we are exposed to the thoughts, ideas, and experiences of others. We can learn about different cultures, explore new topics, and gain insights into complex concepts. Today, I am flying solo to talk about what I learned from reading James Altucher’s Skip the Line and how that book made me realize the life-changing benefits of reading. I will also discuss what motivated me to read more and how I actually find time for reading.  Topics include: The key takeaway Darius got from reading Skip the Line by James Altucher The life-changing benefits of reading books How to actually read more books  And other topics… Resource mentioned: Skip the Line by James Altucher: https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Line-Experiments-Surprising-Reaching-ebook/dp/B08BLLF3RD  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Burnout and stress seem like inevitable companions of success in today's fast-paced world. But what if there was a way to navigate the entrepreneurial roller coaster with greater ease and resilience? Meditation and mindfulness are ancient practices that have tremendous benefits on well-being and performance in the modern business landscape. Oksana Esberard, a seasoned expert in mindfulness and meditation, shares invaluable insights into how these practices can revolutionize your approach to work and life. Drawing from her own experiences and client interactions, she highlights the transformative power of mindfulness in managing stress, fostering emotional intelligence, and enhancing overall well-being. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Oksana to uncover practical strategies for seamlessly integrating mindfulness into one’s daily routine, unlocking the potential for a more balanced and fulfilling life. Together, they will share valuable insights into the power of breath work, the art of self-awareness, and the profound impact of these ancient practices on personal growth and holistic well-being. Topics include: Oksana talks about her personal journey to exploring mindfulness and meditation The importance of integrating holistic well-being practices into the business world Taking personal responsibility for creating moments of stillness and self-reflection The value of meditation as a way to disconnect from one’s current state of being The role of mantras in meditation The power of breathwork in meditation and mindfulness Developing awareness and emotional regulation The impact of collective consciousness and culture on individual behavior Implementing mindfulness in organizations And other topics… Connect with Oksana: Website: https://oksanaesberard.com/  Website: https://sattva.me/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindfulness-meditation-wellness  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sattvame/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sanaesberard/  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: Check out Demostack at https://sponsr.is/demostack_thegreatnessmachine and find out how Demostack can transform your entire demos operation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are the attributes that define an effective leader? Becoming an effective CEO requires a combination of strategic thinking, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of the industry and market you operate in. An effective CEO is a visionary who sets clear goals for the company and inspires their team to work together to achieve them. They are also able to make difficult decisions and navigate challenges with grace and confidence.  To become an effective CEO, it is important to continuously learn and grow, seeking out opportunities to improve your skills and stay ahead of industry trends. Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, including employees, customers, and partners, is also critical to success. Ultimately, an effective CEO is a dynamic leader who inspires success in their organization and drives positive change in their industry. Michael Caito, owner and CEO of Management Action Programs, Inc. (MAP), joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about the lessons he learned on the journey of becoming an effective leader. In this episode, Darius and Michael discuss what it takes to be a good CEO and what are the challenges that come with the job. Michael also reveals how having a business coach has helped him become the leader that he is right now.  Topics include: What Mike did to become a better CEO of Restaurants on the Run The power of focus in running a business The benefits of having a business coach The six mistakes that companies need to get right Mike shares the story behind buying MAP in 2017 And other topics… Connect with Mike: Website: https://www.mapconsulting.com/ Email: mc@mapconsulting.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcaitomap/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mapcaito/  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you showing up? Showing up for yourself is crucial for personal growth, self-awareness, and well-being. It means prioritizing your needs, desires, and goals, and taking intentional actions toward them. When you show up for yourself, you acknowledge your worth, and you create a foundation of self-love and self-respect.  It also means taking responsibility for your life, and not relying on others to fulfill your needs or make you happy. By showing up for yourself, you cultivate a sense of empowerment and agency, and you become more resilient and adaptable to life's challenges. So make it a habit to show up for yourself every day, in big and small ways, and watch how your life transforms for the better. Today I am flying solo to talk about who I am trying to be in the world and what I do to become that version of myself. In this episode, I will share a few tips I learned on how to become the best version of yourself and why it matters to show up and take action. I will also discuss the things I learned from two books I recently read, Atomic Habits by James Clear and The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. Topics include: My biggest takeaway from reading Atomic Habits The three things I’m trying to be in the world The importance of showing up And other topics… Resources mentioned: Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Not-So-Obvious-Guaranteed-Transform/dp/0979019710  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What motivates someone to turn their personal challenges into moments of laughter for thousands? For Sara Weinshenk, it was about turning darkness into light, creating punchlines out of pain, and transforming adversity into avenues of connection. Through her comedic lens, she not only navigates her own struggles but also invites others to laugh along with her, sharing in the universal experience of overcoming life’s obstacles.  As a stand-up comedian, writer, and podcaster, Sara managed to transform her trials into triumphs motivated by the catharsis of laughter, the power of storytelling, and the innate human desire to find joy amidst hardship.  This episode of The Greatness Machine will dive into the inspiring journey of Sara Weinshenk, who has mastered the art of turning struggles into motivation to pursue her passions. Darius and Sara will also talk about the relentless grind of stand-up comedy, the importance of repetition and refinement in perfecting their craft, and the highs and lows of the comedy world. Topics include: The importance of following one's passion despite setbacks and societal expectations Sara recalls the challenges of shifting from an unfulfilling job to pursuing comedy How the evolution of social media transformed the landscape for comedians Sara talks about her initial struggles when she began her stand-up career The migration of comedians to Austin during the pandemic Sara shares how her podcasting journey started And other topics… Connect with Sara: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/princessshenk/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/princessshenk/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sweinshenk  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shenk/id1396153950  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-bitch/id1593036777  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 This episode is sponsored by Demostack. To learn more about Demostack or see it in action, visit demostack.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How does one pull themselves up from struggling through addiction to become one of the top connectors in the World? Is it possible to break the link between pain and addiction? Joe Polish, Founder of Genius Network and considered one of the most influential connectors in the world, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about his new book, What’s In It For Them? 9 Genius Networking Principles To Get What You Want By Helping Others Get What They Want. In this episode, Darius and Joe explore the complex relationship between trauma, pain, and addiction. They delve into the concept of givers and takers and the importance of being someone who always gives. They also discuss the world of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the crucial role that mastering fundamental business skills plays in the industry. Topics include: Reasons why people resort to addiction as a solution to pain Joe looks back on how he battled drug addiction at such a young age What got Joe into entrepreneurship  The importance of learning the fundamental business skills Joe shares how Genius Network started Why you need to pay attention to what people complain about Ethics in life and business H.A.L.F. (Hard, Annoying, Lame, and Frustrating) versus E.L.F. (Easy, Lucrative, Fun) Joe explains what his new book What’s In It For Them is all about And other topics… Resources mentioned: The Five Love Languages: https://www.amazon.com/Love-Languages-Secret-that-Lasts/dp/080241270X Connect with Joe: Website: https://joepolish.com/  Book: https://whatsinitforthem.com/  Book: https://joesfreebook.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joepolish  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joepolish/  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder why some of the most successful people seem unfazed by rejection? Today I am flying solo to talk about the concept of “collecting nos” – a powerful mindset shift that can transform how you can approach challenges and opportunities. Discover why every “no” is a valuable step towards a “yes” and how it can fuel your growth and resilience.  This episode of The Greatness Machine will highlight the importance of seeking out rejection as a sign that you are pushing the limits of your comfort zone and striving for more. Join me as I share personal anecdotes and practical insights on how embracing the “nos” in life can lead you to unexpected yeses and monumental success. Topics include: The importance of learning how to embrace rejection Pushing your boundaries versus staying in your comfort zone The process of asking and receiving both “yeses” and “nos” Achieving success through persistence 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the darkest moments of your life could become the foundation for your greatest transformations? Imagine feeling hopeless, lost, and overwhelmed by the shadows of your own choices. Now, imagine that these very shadows, the darkest moments of your life, could be the foundation for your greatest transformations. A story such as Garrain Jones vividly illustrates the transformative power of adversity. His life took a dramatic turn when he found himself imprisoned in France for drug smuggling. At the time, Garrain was torn between a bright public image and a shadowy private life full of poor decisions and misguided priorities. But instead of succumbing to despair, he used his incarceration to reflect on his life. This episode of The Greatness Machine will delve into Garrain’s extraordinary journey from the depths of imprisonment in a foreign land to becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment. Through his harrowing experiences and transformative insights, Garrain shares how he turned his darkest moments into the foundation for his greatest transformations. Topics include: The disparity between appearance and actual success in the entertainment industry The lasting effects of childhood trauma in terms of decision-making and worldview The importance of building grit and resilience The impact of intergenerational trauma and the power of individual choice in breaking such cycles The concept of mindset and behavioral change Honoring one’s true self and addressing unmet needs from childhood Garrain reflects on his experiences of imprisonment in France Garrain talks about his company Artist Power and what they offer And other topics… Connect with Garrain: Website: https://garrainjones.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garrain.jones/  Membership: https://go.garrainjones.com/apply-artist-power-expressed LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrainjones  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices