The Greatness Machine

Today I’m talking with Michael Arrieta, who currently serves as the Founder and CEO of Garden City, a purpose-driven holding company that buys, grows, and permanently holds family-owned companies.  He was an early employee at DocuSign and served as Global Vice President, General Manager, and Chief of Staff to the CEO before he founded MAV Ventures in 2016. Michael also co-founded New Story, a non-profit organization that has built over 2,000 homes in developing countries.  Following his success as a young sales representative at Cutco and after seeking wise counsel, Michael made the decision to move to Silicon Valley, where he joined a startup called Wyse before his path led him to DocuSign in 2014.  With his passion to make small things flourish, Michael started investing in small companies with a mission to help them grow, which later resulted in the creation of Garden City. Michael, through the holding company, envisions enriching the lives of the working class by acquiring family-owned service businesses and putting a culture that’s all about purpose, belonging, and excellence.  In this episode, you will learn the advantages of seeking wise counsel, why hard work is necessary to be successful in life and business, and the importance of knowing your ‘why’ and purpose. Topics include: Michael looks back at his humble beginnings. How he landed a job at DocuSign in the early years of the company. The importance and benefits of mentorship. What made him take the path to become an entrepreneur. What they do in Garden City and the impact they want to make. Connect with Michael: Website: https://gardencityequity.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelarrieta Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikearrieta/  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

Do you believe that affirmations and goal-setting have the power to transform your life? Today, I am flying solo for a year-end episode where I unpack my thoughts on the transformative power of affirmations, highlighting a particular affirmation that stands out to me – growing a private equity business in the next 36 months.  This episode will delve into the unexpected success and challenges of this goal, showcasing the transformative journey from setting affirmations to realizing them. I will also underscore the belief in affirmations as a driving force, demonstrating the power of speaking intentions into the universe.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I embark on a soul-searching journey to encapsulate the essence of the transformative year that was 2023. I will also share some personal insights, scoring myself on affirmations, from being a loving father to the audacious goal of growing a private equity business.  Topics include: The transformative power of affirmations and goal-setting The importance of accountability and vulnerability Turning goals into reality 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 This episode is sponsored by the Harvard Business Review: Go to www.hbr.org/subscriptions and enter promo code: GREATNESS, for unlimited content starting at only $10 a month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered how burning the boats can lead to extracting more value than you ever thought possible? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, we welcome back Matt Higgins, the author of the groundbreaking book Burn the Boats: Toss Plan B Overboard and Unleash Your Full Potential.  Matt delves into the art of setting and achieving goals, sharing his unique four-step matrix. He emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from the right individuals when developing a business idea, highlighting how relationships can profoundly impact professional success.   During the conversation, Darius and Matt explore the transformative concepts from Burn the Boats, discussing how these principles can reshape one’s approach to challenges, turning them into stepping stones for unprecedented success. They also delve into the intricate dynamics of co-founder relationships, shedding light on both the challenges and strategies in navigating this crucial aspect of entrepreneurship. Join us for a discussion as Matt revisits the show, bringing forth a wealth of strategic wisdom, actionable insights and profound impact of Burn the Boats on your journey to success.  Topics include: Burning the boats for goals, not tactics Matt explains the four-step risk matrix he uses before committing to a goal The importance of consulting the right people when developing a business idea The concept of agenda-less supporters The critical aspect of choosing the right partners in business and personal life The impact of personal relationships on professional success The challenges of co-founder relationships Matt explains the purpose of his book Burn the Boats And other topics… Connect with Matt: Website: https://rseventures.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mhiggins/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mhiggins/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-higgins-rse 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 Check out Matt Higgins’ first interview: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/196-matt-higgins-burn-the-boats-toss-plan-b-overboard/id1555334180?i=1000611559474  This episode is sponsored by the Harvard Business Review: Go to www.hbr.org/subscriptions and enter promo code: GREATNESS, for unlimited content starting at only $10 a month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why are values important to succeed in business and in life? Today's guest shows us what really happens behind the scenes of a successful company and how values factor into the equation. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Matthew Stewart, co-founder and CEO of National Service Group (NSG), which operates College Works Painting, Empire Community Construction, Home Genius Exteriors, and SMJJ Investments. From a small Southern California company, NSG has grown into an international company with offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. Matthew currently serves on the boards of several organizations in addition to his role at NSG. In his past role, he was chairman of the global board of Entrepreneur's Organization (EO), a worldwide business network representing more than 142 chapters across 46 countries. In this episode you'll discover: - The entrepreneurial advice Matthew would give to his younger self. - How values help his company succeed. - The secrets to running a successful business. Join Darius and Matthew for this fascinating discussion as they explore how our values and even our mistakes provide lessons that we can use to create success. They also discuss the reasons why being patient and having a strategy are vital to achieving greatness. Topics include: The advice Matthew would offer to his younger self as an entrepreneur How values have become vital to making his company a success The inside scoop on running a successful business And other topics... Connect with Matt: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-stewart-5257314 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’s holding you back? What’s stopping you from achieving the life you have always wanted? Unfortunately, many people experience regret for the things they never did. Perhaps they rejected a wonderful job offer, passed up an opportunity to expand their business, or missed the chance to travel the world.  While there are plenty of reasons for missed opportunities, choosing to live a life in a box is what stops most people from dreaming big dreams.  Today, I am flying solo to talk about how constraints and limitations affect our way of life, how we see ourselves, and how they hold us back from becoming the best version of ourselves. I will also talk about my personal journey of finding success after removing the constraints I previously put around myself.  In this episode, I will discuss the benefits of having a no-constraints mindset and how it taught me to raise the bar higher every time I reach a goal without beating myself up.  Topics include: Breaking free from constraints The one thing that stops people from reaching their full potential The effects of having a no-constraints mindset What I achieved when I started living without constraints The two things I put no constraints around 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

How can you align your values with wealth management, lead authentically in business and navigate life's challenges with resilience? Joe Duran, a known figure in the field of wealth management, is highly regarded for his approach that goes beyond traditional financial strategies. As the founder and former CEO of United Capital, he consistently emphasizes the significance of aligning one's values with wealth management, recognizing that true prosperity extends beyond measures. His philosophy surpasses wealth management by integrating values, authenticity and resilience into an approach. Through this approach, Joe not only revolutionizes people's perception of wealth, but also empowers them to lead more fulfilling lives rooted in their genuine aspirations and values. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Joe joins Darius to share his journey from Zimbabwe to becoming an entrepreneur. He highlights the importance of kindness and belief in the universe, discusses his experience building and selling United Capital, leaving Goldman Sachs for impact as well as providing insights on wealth management and personal growth. Additionally, Joe delves into topics such as aligning choices with values, bridging the gap between personal and professional identities, and the significance of leadership. Topics include: The power of choosing to believe in a kind universe Joe emphasizes creating conditions where individuals can shine Joe talks about the lessons he learned from being on the rugby field Money as fuel, not the end goal Joe looks back selling United Capital to Gold Sachs in 2019 Embracing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning Closing the gap between ideal and real self Breaking down the separation between personal and professional identities Joe introduces the concept of working at the top of your license Persistence, adaptability, and optimism as key elements to succeed And other topics… Connect with Joe: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-duran-711167 Twitter: https://twitter.com/duranmoney/ 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

Today I’m talking with John Jackson, Director of Correctional Partnerships for Hustle 2.0, an evidence-based, trauma-informed curriculum used in more than 450 jails and prisons across the country. He is a co-author of ten books, a TEDx speaker, and a keynote speaker for multiple organizations advocating for second chances. After spending 18 years incarcerated, John earned four SHU terms before coming to one of California's most notorious supermax prisons, Pelican Bay. He also earned his GED, a Baylor University certificate, and led networking events for top executives and investors in prison.  His life changed when he was hired to work for Hustle 2.0 in 2019, where they help corrections departments to effectively program more of their population with minimal impact on facility staff and space resources. Now, John works with gang leaders nationwide to interrupt generational cycles of violence and incarceration. In this episode, you will learn how John was subjected to crimes at an early age, how he became a gang member in prison, and how the “worst of the worst” found a second chance in life.  Topics include: Experiences that led John to prison at a very young age Structure of prison gangs and how he became a member of one The turning point that made him want to turn his back on his gang and change his life The challenges and discriminations John had to face after he was paroled from Pelican Bay How he stumbled upon Hustle 2.0 And other topics… Connect with John: Website: https://www.hustle20.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjackson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmjacksonca/ 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 giving yourself the gift of dreaming? Or are you only grinding hard towards your goals? Many people think that dreams will take you nowhere unless you embrace the grind and take action towards achieving them. However, they allow you to see the future with optimism and to see what’s impossible become possible.  Today, I am flying solo to talk about dreams and goals and their big differences, how they affect our disposition towards success, and what it means to allow ourselves to just dream and stop beating ourselves up when things don’t turn out right. In this episode, I will discuss what Ed Mylett’s book The Power of One More made me realize about my dreams and goals. I will also talk about my motivation for starting my podcast, The Greatness Machine, and what I aspire to achieve for the show.  Topics include: The key difference between dreams and goals The realizations I got after reading The Power of One More by Ed Mylett Why I decided to start The Greatness Machine podcast Why you need to give yourself the gift of dreaming 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

In a world full of challenges, how can technology be a force for good? As we navigate the complexities of the modern era, it becomes increasingly evident that the role of technology extends far beyond innovation for innovation’s sake; it is a formidable force capable of catalyzing positive change. Marga Hoek, a visionary three-time CEO and sustainability advocate, unravels the transformative potential of technology in her latest book, Tech for Good: Imagine Solving the World’s Greatest Challenges. Her perspective invites the readers to reconsider the potential impact of technology on society, urging us to shift our focus from mere profit-driven endeavors to initiatives that prioritize the greater good. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius talks with Marga to delve into the significance of ethical business practices and leadership's role in instigating change, touching on the European sustainability approach and challenges like trust and short-termism. Marga highlights the positive impact of technology and stresses the essential balance between tech and human engagement. The conversation covers the interaction of humans and technology, anticipating future professions, and the value of envisioning technology for good and conquering inner fears. Topics include: Setting up the Dutch Sustainable Business Association and the Sustainable Science Association The difference in perspectives on sustainability between Europe and the United States The importance of recognizing liabilities and expenses in business The potential role of technology in forcing disruption and bringing about change The collective impact of individuals, companies, and business leaders in driving change The crucial role of leadership in driving change and overcoming challenges  The interconnectedness of sustainability and innovation The role of purpose-driven companies and their potential for scaling up Leveraging technology for sustainability And other topics… Connect with Marga: Website: https://margahoek.com/ Books: https://margahoek.com/order/ LinkedIn: https://nl.linkedin.com/in/margahoek Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margahoek/  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 living the life you want to live, or the one you want others to see? That was the question on the mind of today's guest when he hit his first year of university. At the time. life seemed good. He had an academic scholarship to a top-tier school and a dream of making the U-19 Canadian Rugby Team had become a reality. But then it all came crashing down... In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Ben Nemtin, a #1 New York Times bestselling author of 'What Do You Want To Do Before You Die?,' co-founder of The Buried Life movement and inspirational keynote speaker. He has delivered over 500 keynotes to brands and Fortune 500 companies around the globe.  In this episode you'll discover: How Ben overcame crippling depression, including his list of 100 things to do before he dies (of which he has achieved 96!) How a poem called 'The Buried Life' led him to a TV show on MTV, where he played basketball with President Obama among other things Answers to questions such as: 'What do you want to do before you die?' And 'What are the top five things people regret on their deathbeds?' Join Darius and Ben as they discuss creating the life you want for yourself - not the one you want others to see. Topics include: How Ben conquered depression in his youth to create a list of 100 things to do before he dies Why a 150 year-old poem called 'The Buried Life' by Matthew Arnold led Ben to create a show for MTV How to discover what you want to do before you die, and how you can avoid having regrets at the end of your life And other topics... Connect with Ben: Website: https://www.bennemtin.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennemtin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennemtin/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nemtin/  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