The Greatness Machine

What qualities set apart a legendary rock photographer whose work resonates with the soul of a generation and captures the spirit of an entire era? In the heart of rock 'n' roll's whirlwind, Michael Zagaris emerges as an iconic figure, the man behind the lens who documented the defining moments of music history. With a camera as his tool, he captured the raw energy, vulnerability, and unadulterated authenticity of the legends that graced the world's most legendary stages.  His photographs transcend mere visuals, serving as sonic snapshots that pulse with the rhythms of a bygone era. Yet, beyond the photographic frame, Michael remains a mystic seeker of life's hidden melodies, an artist with a relentless drive for the extraordinary. His story is an intricately woven tapestry of artistic integrity, the allure of adventure, and a relentless pursuit of authenticity that defined the rock 'n' roll era.  This episode of The Greatness Machine explores Michael's transition from law school to rock 'n' roll photography, his work with iconic musicians, and his role as a documentarian during the civil rights movement, highlighting the inspiring journey of an artist who followed his true calling against conventional expectations. Topics include: Michael looks back at how he started taking pictures at a very young age Michael shares what it was like working with Robert Kennedy What introduced Michael to rock ‘n’ roll photography Michael reflects on the meaning of life Michael spills the craziest experiences he had as a rock photographer And other topics… Connect with Michael: Website: https://morrisonhotelgallery.com/collections/michael-zagaris   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-zagaris-011b857 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelzagaris/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.zagaris/  Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Field-Play-Years-NFL-Photography/dp/1951836766  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

On today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Derek Coburn, the author of 'Networking Is NOT Working' and the co-founder and CEO of CADRE, an un-networking community in Washington, DC, which currently supports over 100 CEOs and business leaders.  Derek began his career in the financial services industry. When the economy took a turn for the worse, he had to devote more attention to his existing clients and had less time for "traditional networking". He began to experiment with his own ideas, which included creating an informal 'un-networking' group consisting of his best clients and other top professionals. Derek's passion for connecting remarkable professionals led him to start CADRE and write his first book.  You'll discover how Derek overcame childhood trauma and made his personality stronger. You'll learn how both Derek and Darius started their books and how it changed their lives. You'll also discover the importance of creating value in our lives and living for the present. Join Darius and Derek as they discuss the drawbacks of traditional networking, living for the present and building rejection muscles. Topics include: How Derek overcame childhood trauma, made his personality stronger, and built his 'rejection muscles’ How Derek and Darius started their books and how it changed their lives Creating value in our lives and living for the present And other topics… Connect with Derek: Website: https://www.cadredc.com Website: https://www.derekcoburn.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekcoburn  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 ever look back and think about the things that you could have done differently? Maybe you have done and said something that you wish you could take back. Maybe you wish you hadn’t worked so hard or wish you could have done better.  Most of us, if not all, have regrets. It could be things you did that you hoped you hadn’t or things you wish you had done but didn’t. Today, I am flying solo to share a list of things I would tell my younger self. Looking back, I remember being scared of a lot of things, worrying about what could happen, and spending my time thinking about the future. What I failed to realize was we can never take back whatever time and effort we have expended in the past.  In this episode, I will discuss the things I wish I had known when starting out in life and business, the biggest mistake I made as an entrepreneur dad, my realizations looking back in the past, and the things I wish to do now that I am in my 40’s. Topics include: List of things I would tell my younger self The pros of mental time travel  Why you should never stress about your businesses, clients, and team members The importance of spending time with your family and friends Why you shouldn’t wait to live your life Living in the now but also preparing for the future Why you should never sweat the small stuff The one big mistake I should never have made in the past Why it matters to live a life of intent 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 wisdom lies in an entrepreneur’s journey from startups to strategic business acquisitions? Robert Brooker has traversed a multifaceted career path marked by entrepreneurship, strategic business acquisitions, and a profound commitment to a fulfilling life. Starting with odd jobs worldwide, he ventured into real estate and later transitioned to acquiring businesses.  Robert’s impact extends beyond business by serving on BetterInvesting’s board and held roles at esteemed institutions. Now, he focuses on diverse investments, emphasizing family and personal fulfillment.  In this episode, Robert joins Darius for yet another episode of The Greatness Machine to talk about his latest book, Albert Kner: Icon, Legend. He also discusses crucial insights for entrepreneurs and investors, emphasizing the significance of aligning business ideas with current market conditions and delves into the value of peer groups within these communities. A pivotal aspect of the discussion revolves around Robert’s personal journey, specifically the transition from being a business owner to dedicating his focus to full-time investing. Topics include: The importance of aligning business ideas with the current market conditions The value of peer groups in the entrepreneurial and investing communities The need to explore opportunities and hustle in a competitive market Robert shares an important criteria for business acquisition Robert discusses two models for managing acquired businesses The responsibility of entrepreneurs to ensure the business’s viability Robert talks about the transition from being a business owner to full-time investing And other topics… Connect with Robert: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbrooker/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Albert-Kner-Artist-Discovering-Industrial/dp/9631369234  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 today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Jessica Lawson, a self-taught chef and baker. Food is her creative release and being in the kitchen keeps her centered.  Jessica started a blog to share recipes, favorite gadgets, and products with her friends and family. She's fiercely passionate about good quality ingredients, healthy-ish living, and sharing her original well-tested recipes. You'll discover why you must 'start by starting' and readjust your thinking You'll learn the power of pursuing what you love and are passionate about. You'll also discover tips for organically growing your following. Join Darius and Jessica for this exciting (and delicious!) discussion. Topics include: Start by starting: readjusting your thinking The power of pursuing what you love. Tips for growing your following, organically. And other topics… Connect with Jessica: Website: https://bigdeliciouslife.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicarlawson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigdeliciouslife/ 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 writing a book hard? Today I’m flying solo to talk about the process of writing my first book, “The Core Value Equation,” where I tackled how core values create the ultimate decision-making engine for an organization that consistently produces spectacular results. Writing and publishing my own book has been on my bucket list for a long time until I made it happen in 2020. Now, looking back at the experience made me realize that anyone can write and publish their own book. It may sound like a daunting task, but it was personally one of the coolest projects I have ever done.  In this episode, I will be taking you behind the scene on how The Core Value Equation was born. You will also learn several tips on how to write your own book and the challenges and benefits of publishing one. Here are some of the things I get into: What pushed me to write The Core Value Equation. How I started the writing process by dictation. Why consistency matters in writing a book. The power of editing in creating and fine-tuning a book. Why most people write a book.  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 how to unleash your inner genius and transform your life? This innate desire to tap into our fullest potential often leads us on a journey of self-discovery, where we explore the depths of our abilities and aspirations. Renowned psychologist and personal development guru Gay Hendricks has dedicated much of his work to addressing precisely this question. Through his insightful teachings and the concept of the “Zone of Genius,” he guides individuals on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. He believes that within each person lies a unique set of talents, passions, and abilities.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Gay joins Darius to talk about his enlightening journey, reminiscing an “out of Hendricks” moment triggered by an unexpected fall on ice. Gay candidly discusses his personal struggles with obesity, emphasizing the profound impact of conscious food choices on one’s transformation.  The conversation unravels the intricacies of identifying and transforming limiting beliefs, highlighting the pivotal role of openness to learning. Gay also offers insights into cultivating genius and finding your unique “genius zone,” a place where passion and contribution intersect.  Topics include: Gay looks back experiencing “out of Hendricks” moment after a fall on ice Gay opens up about his personal struggles with obesity The importance of choosing actions that align with a deeper sense of consciousness Gay underlines the transformative power of conscious food choices Family influence on body image and shame Gay shares a method of replacing shame with positive affirmations Family influence and overcoming past conditions Identifying and transforming limiting beliefs The significance of being open to learning Cultivating genius and finding your “genius zone” Gay details his upcoming book Your Big Leap Year And other topics… Connect with Gay: Website: https://hendricks.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gay-hendricks-195a90  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hendricks.gay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gayhendricks/  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 Uncommon Goods. Go to uncommongoods.com/greatness to get 15% off your next gift. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s show, Darius interviews Gina Mollicone-Long, co-founder of Greatness U, a multinational training, team-building, and personal development company. Gina teaches the mechanics of the mind to help coaches and business leaders get better results faster. In today’s show, Gina gives us some interesting insights into different mechanistic mind models.  First, she walks us through her “Process of Change”.  A willingness to change is the first step in this evolution. Can you be successful in changing a person with zero willingness? On the flip side, can you stop a person who is hell-bent on change? Listening to this segment of the show will make you realize that change can be turned into an engineered process. This serves as a good segue to our next topic where we discuss the nuances of NLP or Neuro-Linguistic Programming. You will get some interesting insights into this result-oriented technology which involves the assimilation of your conscious and unconscious thinking.  Another simple but extremely powerful topic that we discuss is the importance of persistence and never-ending practice.  Constant change is exhausting. Failures are exhausting. And those who manage to keep at it despite all the setbacks will surely find success at the end of it all. We all know that there is light at the end of the towel. But, yet, most of us throw in the towel midway and slide into a life of mediocrity. This segment of the show will surely rejuvenate and inspire you all over again. Other topics discussed in this show include the need to balance art and science, how a crisis brings out the best in us, and dealing with co-workers who see things differently. Topics include: Techniques that you can practice to communicate better with people How to deal with co-workers who see things differently How to balance art and science Importance of persistence and continuous learning And other topics… Connect with Gina: Website: https://ginamollicone.com/  LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/ginamollicone Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gina.mollicone/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GinaMollicone/  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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can we foster a culture of "unreasonable hospitality" and go above and beyond conventional standards to deliver exceptional experiences? Will Guidara, a distinguished figure in the world of hospitality and fine dining, has not only earned numerous accolades but has also revolutionized the way people perceive dining experiences.  His journey teaches us that creating a culture of "unreasonable hospitality" is all about pushing the boundaries, rewriting the script, and delivering extraordinary experiences. It is a testament to the idea that success transcends ordinary standards and is marked by a relentless commitment to exceeding expectations. Will is recognized for his role as a co-owner of Eleven Madison Park, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City, which under his leadership, earned the title of the "World's Best Restaurant" in 2017. Beyond his restaurant endeavors, he is a passionate advocate for the 'extra mile' mentality, inspiring individuals and businesses to prioritize people and deliver exceptional experiences. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Will joins Darius to share insights on his inspiration for prioritizing others, drawing from his experiences with Danny Meyer. He underscores the importance of financial management in the restaurant industry and creating a culture of unreasonable hospitality. Will also touches on personal growth, leadership, and lessons learned from pursuing excellence in the culinary world and writing a book. Topics include: What inspired Will to embrace the idea of serving and prioritizing others Will looks back at his experience working with Danny Meyer Will discusses the importance of managing your finances carefully Creating a culture of unreasonable hospitality The importance of owning up to your mistakes and vulnerabilities as a leader Will talks about their pursuit of becoming the number one restaurant in the world The importance of separating one's identity from their work Will shares the lessons he learned while writing a book And other topics…  Connect with Will: Website: https://unreasonablehospitality.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willguidara Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wguidara/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/wguidara Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillGuidara/  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