The Greatness Machine

Every entrepreneur will experience adversity at one time or another - that's a fact of life. Whether it be business related or personal, how we respond to the presence of these challenges is vital to determining whether we will triumph over them. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Ben Woodward, speaker, strategist, coach and best-selling author. Ben is no stranger to adversity, having had to send his father to prison, struggle with undiagnosed bipolar disorder and endure a corporate crisis throughout his life. The wisdom he gained from these experiences has been outlined in his book, The Empowerment Paradox. You'll discover a little of Ben's journey - Moving from New Zealand to the UK with only 50 pounds in his pocket to live with his father - who turned out to be a sex offender who had never been brought to justice. You'll learn how Ben was forced to confront his father, a process that resulted in a prison sentence and a new perspective on their relationship. You'll discover how Ben's life has been shaped by undiagnosed bipolar disorder, offering him unique insights into the concept of surrender and becoming a victor over one's circumstances. Join Darius and Ben for a deeply personal and powerful discussion that will change the way you look at adversity in life and in business. Topics include:  Ben's journey from living in New Zealand to, at just 22, taking a one-way trip to the UK to live with his father - who he hadn't seen since he was 14 How his father turned out to be a sex offender who had never been brought to justice, and how Ben was forced to testify against his father and send him to prison How undiagnosed of bipolar disorder has shaped Ben's life and offered him unique insights into the concept of surrender The importance of becoming the victor over your circumstances, no matter what they may be And other topics… Connect with Ben: Website: http://www.ben-woodward.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/BenWoodwardEP  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 stopped to ponder how the roles you play in life shape your identity and, ultimately, the mark you leave on the world? How we define our identity is a complex and ever-evolving process. It is not merely a single label or job title, but a multifaceted tapestry of experiences, roles, and characteristics that make us who we are. How we define our identity ultimately shapes our perspective on life, influences our choices, and guides our interactions with the world.  In this second installment of our series, I will draw upon my personal experiences to delve into the concept of identity and its pivotal role in our lives. I will share how I have navigated the intricate landscape of self-discovery, highlighting moments that have shaped my understanding of identity.  Together, we will explore the diverse facets that make up our identities and learn from my experiences how to embrace the complexity of who we are.  Topics include: What makes up your identity and true essence as a person Why it matters to explore and invest in other interests and passions beyond your business 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 how million-dollar deals happen behind closed doors? CL Turner, III, Founder and Managing Partner of Crescendo Capital Partners, underlines the critical role of building personal connections with founder-owner operators in private equity transactions, making it clear that it is more than just business; it is personal. He explains how the private equity industry goes beyond simply closing deals and focuses on building personal relationships.  Drawing from his own life experiences and the firm’s winning formula, CL reveals their unique strategy at Crescendo Capital Partners of convincing business owners to sell below market rates, offering them a second bite at the apple.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and CL talk about the dynamic world of private equity and the art of thriving in it, highlighting the significance of hard work and determination in becoming a successful figure in the industry. The interview takes an unexpected turn as CL shares his passion for creating music and the joy he finds in serendipitous moments.  Topics include: What inspired CL to start Crescendo Capital Partners CL talks about his passion for music and his plans to release songs every year Transitioning from an intermediary to a principal in the investment world Why it is important to assess the malleability of founder-operators  CL shares three key elements to succeed in private equity And other topics… Connect with CL: Website: https://crescendocap.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-l-turner-iii-07915a2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cl.turneriii/  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

Leaving an established corporate gig to branch out on your own can seem daunting, and for many, the risk remains too high.  In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Jeffrey Schox, general partner at Trucks Venture Capital, and the founder of Schox Patent Group, a boutique patent firm focused on startups. Jeffrey started his career as an engineer on the original electric vehicle at General Motors before becoming a patent attorney for two of the largest patent law firms and eventually founding his own firm. You'll learn about Jeffrey's unusual background, from following his parents in the automotive industry to eventually striking out on his own as a patent attorney. You'll discover the power of giving and accepting help, and why passing a potential client to a more-qualified friend resulted in a flood of much-needed business for his struggling new firm. You'll learn why timing is an essential tool in determining the viability of an investment, whether it be in an invention or a company.  You'll also discover Jeffrey's knack for taking a complicated idea, product, etc. and teasing out the differences to determine its future value. Join Darius and Jeffrey as they discuss the entrepreneurial path, timing and the power of giving and receiving. Topics include: A little of Jeffrey's background, including his work on the original electric car at General Motors and his eventual shift to patent law How handing over a potential client to a more qualified friend ended up being paid back in spades for his struggling firm Why an understanding of timing is vital when assessing a company / product to invest your resources in And other topics… Connect with Jeff: Website: https://www.schox.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jschox Twitter: https://twitter.com/jschox 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: .Go to https://incogni.com/greatness and Use code greatness to get an exclusive 60% off on the annual Incogni plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered if your quest for short-term gain might be hindering your long-term dreams? In the pursuit of long-term rewards, taking risks is the compass guiding us through uncharted territory. While risks can be intimidating, they also carry the potential for great rewards. It is the decision to invest in tomorrow, even if it means sacrificing short-term comfort.  In this inaugural episode of a 12-part series, I draw inspiration from a recent presentation I gave at the University of Texas in Austin, where I shared the valuable lessons I wished I had known as a 20-year old entrepreneur. Today, we are delving into the concept of taking risks, especially in your 20s. I firmly believe that when you are young, it is the perfect time to embrace what I call “asymmetric risk.” Why? Because the lessons you gain from such experience will benefit you for a lifetime. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I encourage listeners to find a balance between short-term goals and long-term vision. This episode sets the stage for an engaging 12-part series exploring valuable life lessons for entrepreneurs of all ages. Topics include: The importance of taking risks early in life Why it matters to explore the world and take on adventures The significance of aligning your business pursuits with your passions 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 how to reboot your life’s operating system for boundless success and purpose? In a world filled with challenges, demands, and distractions, many of us have experienced moments when we yearn for a fresh start, a way to unleash our full potential and discover true success and purpose. But how can one truly reboot their life's operating system to reach new heights and fulfill their dreams? The answer might lie in a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. Mike Koenigs, a bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, speaker, and interactive online personality and influencer, takes a look back at that time when he had a transformative experience that turned his life around. He emphasizes the importance of shedding limiting beliefs, and seeking coaching and also underlines the significance of fostering connections with remarkable people. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Mike Koenigs cover essential topics, including maximizing value creation, understanding personal strengths, transformative experiences, and the power of storytelling. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and building a strong personal brand. Topics include: Maximizing value creation and avoiding unnecessary work The importance of understanding one’s strengths and tendencies Mike shares his transformative experience that changed his life The importance of seeking coaching, being part of groups, and attending events to expand horizons Mike talks about Dan Sullivan’s DOS Framework The value of having a strong personal brand before exiting a business Mike reveals one key to personal growth and happiness The power of crafting a compelling story and how it can transform your life Upgrading your identity and operating system to eliminate self-imposed limitations And other topics… Connect with Mike: Website: https://www.mikekoenigs.com/ Website: https://www.paidforlife.com/ Website: https://www.referralparty.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekoenigs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikekoenigs/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeKoenigsReal  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 "To you know your "why?" Are you clear about what drives you and gets you up in the morning?  he Greatness Machine," Darius talks with acclaimed speaker, best-selling author and CEO whisperer Cameron Herold about his amazing body of work, life and what his plans are now that he's retired. You'll learn a little about Cameron's journey, from his beginnings as an entrepreneur in school to becoming a CEO whisperer and a business growth guru. You'll discover why it's so vital to understand and fully embrace your "why," your Vivid Vision. You'll learn the dangers of getting your identity caught up in a brand and why you should focus on simply being yourself. You'll also discover why the best companies in the world are run by leaders who are focused on a vision, driving towards goals, praising people, and creating momentum. Join Darius and Cameron in this wide-ranging discussion on life, business, and the power of an effective second in command. Topics include: A little about Cameron's background, from being groomed as an entrepreneur in his youth, to coaching some of the best entrepreneurs in the world The importance of understanding and fully embodying your "why”  Why you should focus on being yourself and never let your identity get wrapped up in a brand Why the best companies are run by leaders who are actually leading 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  Sponsers: • Go to https://incogni.com/greatness and Use code goodhumans to get an exclusive 60% off on annual Incogni plan • Go to shopify.com/darius to take your business to the next level • Head to ZBiotics.com/GREATNESS and use the code GREATNESS at checkout for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered what the path to success looks like after launching a string of business ventures? Today I am flying solo to look back and take you through how I started my entrepreneurial journey with a candy business that my brother and I launched in fourth grade, converting a one-pound block of chocolate into a lucrative enterprise.  Over the years, I have initiated or invested in 21 businesses, resulting in $46.272 million in investments and generating over $1.4 billion in revenue, adjusted for today's values. After years of venturing into business, I have learned invaluable lessons that extend beyond dollars and cents. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I challenge conventional notions of success and encourage you to reflect on what success truly means to you as you navigate the opportunities and challenges of entrepreneurship. Furthermore, this episode discusses the concealed value in the wisdom gained through struggles, emphasizing that lessons from failures serve as stepping stones to future success. Topics include: Darius reflects on his entrepreneurial journey and the concept of success and failure The importance of considering the value of your time when evaluating the success of a business venture Darius shares an exercise tracking each business venture, including investments, inflation-adjusted revenue, staffing, and success status Darius discusses how the lessons learned from failures contribute to long-term success Darius explains how struggles can be seen as paying the tuition for success 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 how the most successful leaders ignite greatness in their teams? Trey Taylor, a multi-faceted leader holding titles such as Managing Director of Threadneedle, CEO of Taylor Insurance Services, Managing Director of Trinity Blue, and Founding Partner of Ascend Partners, is a living testament to the power of great leadership and the success it breeds. Over his illustrious career, Trey has had to navigate a plethora of challenges on his path to becoming a top-tier CEO. His book, A CEO Only Does Three Things, is a revelatory guide that demystifies the complex role of a Chief Executive Officer. Trey’s work provides a blueprint for achieving leadership excellence and organizational success. He delves into the critical areas that CEOs should focus on to drive their organizations to greater heights. He also offers a fresh perspective on the priorities that truly matter, helping leaders to cut through the noise and clutter that often surround their roles. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Trey delve into the often challenging journey of achieving greatness as a CEO. They also highlight the importance of managing concentration risk, and the importance of values and culture in attaining success.  Topics include: Trey emphasizes the effort and work that goes into making things look easy The importance of letting go of grudges and negative emotions Trey discusses the dangers of concentration risk in business Trey looks back into taking over the family business and becoming the CEO The challenges of becoming a CEO and the lack of resources and guidance available  What motivated Trey to write A CEO Only Does Three Things The importance of defining and tracking results or numbers in an organization The crucial roles of values and culture in achieving success  And other topics… Connect with Taylor: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/treytylor Twitter: https://twitter.com/treytylor  Book: https://www.amazon.com/CEO-Only-Does-Three-Things/dp/1544517270  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

It's a simple truth: 'business as usual' simply doesn't apply anymore... and not just because of the pandemic. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Jay Wilkinson, entrepreneur, author, speaker, angel investor, CEO of Firespring, and self-proclaimed "geek with social skills" about the rapidly shifting world of business. Hailing from Nebraska, the "middle of everywhere," Jay realized at a young age that he simply wasn't suited to taking instructions from others and became an entrepreneur, starting eight businesses by the time he left college - most of which failed. Undaunted, he took the lessons from those failures and, in 1986, helped launch Campus Connection magazine in NYC which caught on, eventually expanding to 350 college campuses.  You'll discover how Jay realized he was 100% unemployable, and how that set him on the path to becoming an entrepreneur. You'll learn about B Corps - what they are and how they're changing the way business is done by focusing on making a positive impact in the community and even the world. You'll discover why businesses need to expand their worldview and focus on a "stakeholder capitalism" mentality if they're going to survive the next decade.  You'll also learn about the Do More Good Movement (of which Jay is the founder) and its mission to educate, empower and amplify companies and business leaders doing more good. Join Darius and Jay for a fascinating conversation about making a positive impact through business and why Jay believes that, in its highest form, capitalism can be a force for good. Topics include: Jay's path to becoming an entrepreneur growing up in Nebraska and why he felt he was "100% unemployable” The definition of a B Corp, as well as the strict standards that must be met to become certified Why Jay believes that businesses must develop a 'stakeholder capitalism' mentality in order to survive the next decade and beyond The origins of the Do More Good Movement and its goal to inspire purpose-based businesses and reclaim capitalism And other topics… Connect with Jay: Website: https://jaywilkinson.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaywilkinson 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