The Greatness Machine

How do successful people navigate their careers, overcome barriers, and strategically position themselves for success? It is often challenging to navigate the complexities of professional growth when embarking on a successful career path. From shifting industry landscapes to personal and social expectations, professionals face numerous challenges and success in careers is largely determined by how one strategically positions themselves. Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi, through their book Career Forward: Strategies from Women Who’ve Made It, provide strategic insights to define and achieve career aspirations. Aimed at millennials facing pivotal career decisions, this book highlights the importance of taking calculated risks early in a career to achieve outsized returns.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Grace and Christiana to discuss strategies for crafting a successful career, embracing resilience, and strategically navigating the ever-changing landscape of professional life. They also talk about Grace and Christiana’s upcoming book, Career Forward, set to launch on February 20, 2024. Topics include: The importance of leveraging network in finding a writing partner Christiana highlights the value of having a clear direction or “cardinal direction” Building professional networks and how it can be beneficial Path of least resistance vs. intentionality The concept of building professional equity by consistently demonstrating excellence The idea of having a “growth stock mentality” The concept of “operating at the top of your license” Grace and Christiana talk about the audience for their book Career Forward The idea of taking asymmetric risks in one’s career Understanding and advocating for one’s worth in the professional realm And other topics… Connect with Grace: Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/39999441.Grace_Puma  Connect with Christiana: Website: https://www.lovejoyadvisors.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/csshi  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

Unconscious leaders are expert decision-makers and have a clear vision of what they want to achieve regardless of how their decisions or behavior can affect others. They tend to focus on the external environment and are driven by their emotional responses. Conscious leaders, on the other hand, are those who lead with full awareness, authenticity, intentionality and hold themselves accountable. Rather than focusing on oneself, conscious leadership underlines the purpose of the organization as a whole. Nathanael Chawkin, founder and CEO of Palæstra Leadership, takes us back to when he learned about conscious leadership and how his parents played a vital role in introducing him to meditation and consciousness. He also talks about his work with Palæstra Leadership, where he specializes in transforming organizational culture by coaching executive dynamics.  In this episode, Darius and Nathanael discuss the impact of conscious leadership in an organization, the benefits of meditation, the differences between spirituality and religion, and it is important for a leader to have a greater purpose. Topics include: Nathanael looks back on how he started conscious leadership How Nathanael started working for the Stagen Leadership Academy What is conscious leadership, and why it is important How Nathanael started meditating at a young age Understanding spirituality and religion Why it matters to have a higher purpose as a leader The benefits of higher intelligence in humans The importance of self-knowledge  Palæstra Leadership and what it offers Nathanael talks about Awakening Leadership and their upcoming plant medicine retreat in Costa Rica And other topics… Resources mentioned: How To Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan: https://www.amazon.com/Change-Your-Mind-Consciousness-Transcendence/dp/1594204225  Connect with Nathanael: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanael.chawkin/?hl=en  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nchawkin/  Palæstra Leadership: https://www.thepalaestra.com/  Awakening Leadership: https://awakeningleadership.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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if you could take your business or idea to the next level and achieve extraordinary success in a short amount of time? Today, I am flying solo to dive deep into the transformative power of partnerships and how they can help you 10x your cause, business, or idea. Drawing from my personal experience of raising $250 million for Rise Growth Partners, I will share invaluable insights and actionable strategies to unlock success through collaboration. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will talk about partnering for success, providing value to potential partners, and the benefits of seeking external perspectives. This episode will also explain why persistence and building relationships are crucial in enrolling others in your cause and achieving extraordinary results. Topics include: The benefits of enrolling the right person to help your cause or business Forging meaningful connections and partnerships The effect of providing value to potential partners 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

Ever wondered what it takes to shift from a life of constant striving and grinding to one filled with purpose, balance, and true abundance? Choosing a life of purpose, balance, and true abundance over a life consumed by relentless striving and grinding is a profound journey of self-discovery. This shift challenges the conventional narrative that success is solely defined by external accomplishments and invites us to reflect on the deeper meaning of fulfillment. Ron “Omani” Carson, Founder and CEO of Carson Group, talks about his transformative journey that has taken him from a life of relentless work to a place of profound fulfillment and balance. His pursuit for holistic success has opened doors for him to explore unconventional paths, from psychedelic therapy to biohacking, red light therapy, and the transformative power of intentional living. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Ron joins Darius to talk about his personal transformation, highlighting a realization that no financial achievement could bring sustained happiness. The conversation also delves into the importance of living with intention, debunking the myth that grinding through life is necessary sacrifice for success. The discussion extends to mindfulness and the significance of self-care.  Topics include: What motivated Ron to pursue a career in financial planning The secret behind the success of Carson Group The importance of aligning the interests of consumers, employees, and shareholders in a conscious capitalism model The concept of abundance versus scarcity Finding and doing what one loves to avoid the myth of paying unnecessary dues The value of intentional living and aligning actions with a deeper purpose Overcoming the scarcity mindset by surrounding oneself with the best people And other topics… Connect with Ron: Website: https://www.carsonwealth.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roncarson1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roncarson6/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/rchusker  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

Anger is often viewed as a negative emotion that is typically associated with violence. While aggression is destructive, anger is a normal human emotion that is designed to promote survival, provide a sense of control, motivate us to solve problems, make us aware of injustice, drive us toward our goals, and inject optimism. Awarded the 2013 Distinguished Early Career Researcher Award by the American Psychological Association, Todd Kashdan dives deep into the surprising benefits of anger and the many ways it pushes people to go beyond what they are capable of and pursue their desired rewards. Through his book “The Art of Insubordination,” Todd also offers an essential guide for those who are seeking to be heard, make a change, and rebel against an unhealthy status quo. In this episode, Darius and Todd discuss the value of anger, the advantages of giving and receiving critical feedback, the benefits of creating mental space, the demerits of social mobility, and the ways to bridge integrity and flexibility. Topics include: The challenges of growing up without a father figure How Todd got into writing at a young age Giving and receiving feedback effectively Curiosity and insubordination The surprising benefits of anger The three elements that can improve the quality of life in difficult situations The two forms of self-talk and their benefits Ways to create more psychological space Todd shares the story behind his new book “The Art of Insubordination” The consequences of social mobility on relationships and overall well-being Psychological flexibility with integrity And other topics… Connect with Todd: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddkashdan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toddkashdan/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/toddkashdan  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

How are you doing with those 2024 goals you set for yourself? Whenever a new year comes around, we have a natural tendency to reflect on the past and envision the possibilities that await. Our New Year’s resolutions serve us our compass, guiding us towards growth, achievement, and a brighter future. Today, I am flying solo to talk about the common pitfalls of overambitious New Year’s resolutions and the importance of conducting a one-month check-in. Drawing from my personal journey of having experienced a sense of overwhelm after setting several goals, I will share with you how I learned the value of focusing on a manageable number of goals, ensuring they align with my established habits for sustained success.  In this episode, I will reflect on my own goals, including journaling, running, dietary restrictions, reading, and meditation. I will also talk about my decision to pivot, narrowing down my goals into three key objectives that complement each other.  Topics include: The downside of setting too many goals The importance of regularly checking in on your goals Building habits is essential for long-term success in achieving goals Why it matters to pivot and reset when goals are not met 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

Is more money the key to happiness? Or is there more to life than what meets the wallet? People often seek financial success in the pursuit of happiness, believing that a substantial income and material wealth is equivalent to a more fulfilling life. While money certainly plays a crucial role in meeting basic needs and providing a sense of security, the relationship between money and happiness is complex and multifaceted. Garrett Gunderson, through his book Money Unmasked: Unlearn, Unlock, and Take Back Control of Your Finances and Life, delves into the intricacies of financial well-being and challenges conventional wisdom about money. Beyond the punchlines and laughter, Garrett is a vocal advocate for financial education and literacy. In fact, he founded Wealth Factory, a company focused on providing education and coaching to help individuals and businesses optimize their financial strategies. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Garrett joins Darius to reflect on his venture into comedy and to talk about the motivation behind his book Money Unmasked, explaining the concept of money personas and shadow personas, and exploring the intricate relationship between money and happiness. The discussion will also touch upon the struggle to break free from busyness and confronting insecurities, along with various other compelling topics. Topics include: Garrett takes a look back into his spontaneous journey into comedy The inspiration behind Garrett’s book Money Unmasked The concept of money personas and shadow personas Relationship between money and happiness Garrett introduces the “Cycle of Creation” from Money Unmasked The challenges of recording audio books Escaping busyness and facing insecurities And other topics… Connect with Garrett: Website: https://garrettgunderson.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrett-gunderson-651359b3 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GarrettGundersonTV Twitter: https://twitter.com/gbgunderson/  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 ScentAir: Go to ScentAir.com/greatness to save 25% off your first Whisper MAX diffuser. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Communication is complex. While most people associate it solely with talking or speaking, a good communicator must also have the ability to listen, question, and provide constructive input. The act of communicating not only allows one to convey information but also helps build relationships, enhances engagement, fuels innovation, and fosters trust. But just like any other skill, learning to be better at communicating comes with challenges.  Matt Abrahams, author of “Speaking Up without Freaking Out” and host of the “Think Fast, Talk Smart” podcast, names anxiety as one of the challenges on why it can be hard for some people to express their thoughts and ideas. He believes that it is normal to be nervous and goes on to share some helpful tips and routines that can help manage public speaking anxiety. In this episode, Darius and Matt discuss the types of communication, the ways to become a great communicator, the challenges of public speaking and how to overcome them, the importance of structuring communication plans, and how to leverage and manage public speaking anxiety. Topics include: How Matt realized his passion for communication at an early age Leveraging and managing speaking anxiety How Ted Talks encourages effective good communication Tips on how to level up speaking Things to learn from neuroscience to communicate better The power of communication when it comes to status How to leverage communication to elevate status The importance of listening skills in communication Structuring communication plans Hacks for public speaking with confidence The story behind the creation of Matt’s book “Speaking Up Without Freaking Out” Hosting “Think Fast, Talk Smart” podcast Ways for communicating successfully with remote teams And other topics… Connect with Matt: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maabrahams/ Website: https://nofreakingspeaking.com/  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-fast-talk-smart-communication-techniques/id1494989268  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

Have you ever experienced a moment where success brought praise and recognition, only to find yourself alone when faced with failure? Today, I am flying solo to delve into a profound quote that encapsulates the essence of these contrasting moments: “Success has many fathers, failure is an orphan.” Drawing from my entrepreneurial journey, I will dive deep into the dynamics of success, failure, and the impact these have on personal identity. In this episode, I will embark on a personal narrative, recounting the highs and lows of starting a mortgage lending business at a young age, the emotional rollercoaster, the attachment to success, and what I have come to realize after facing a severe setback during the 2007-2008 financial crisis. Topics include: The importance of understanding that success attracts recognition and praise The disadvantages of having a personal attachment to success The value of learning from failures and seeing them as opportunities The key mindset for navigating both success and failure 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 calories aren’t the whole story? In the realm of nutrition and health, the traditional belief has been that counting calories is the ultimate key to managing one’s diet effectively. But what if we told you calories might not be the key to a healthy diet? Delving beyond the calorie count, this question encourages us to explore the multifaceted elements that influence our health and well-being, such as food quality, nutrient content, and individual genetic factors. Giles Yeo, a biologist and professor of molecular neuroendocrinology at the Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, and scientific director of the Genomics/Transcriptomics Core at the University of Cambridge, challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding weight management.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Giles to shed light on the importance of food quality, nutrient partitioning, and the role of genetics in our individual responses to diet and exercise. His perspective invites us to reevaluate our approach to nutrition, weight loss, considering a more holistic view of health that goes beyond calorie counting. Topics include: What sparked Giles’ interest in the genetics of obesity and body weight Giles explains what influences body weight and health The importance of educating children about nutrition and healthy choices Giles shares the impact of bariatric surgery Why it matters to maintain muscle mass while losing weight The crucial role of resistance training to preserve muscle and overall health And other topics… Connect with Giles: LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/giles-yeo-2062969 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gilesyeo/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/GilesYeo  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/giles.yeo/  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