The Greatness Machine

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/treytylorTwitter: 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/whoompdarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel as if you are stuck on a treadmill, chasing goals without truly experiencing the journey?We live in a fast-paced, achievement-driven society, and most of us are caught up in the whirlwind of pursuing goals, focusing on the goal rather than enjoying the steps along the way. Oftentimes, we invest all our energy on reaching certain milestones, only to find that satisfaction is fleeting once we have achieved them. But what if there is another way?Today, I am flying solo to discuss the difference between a goal-oriented mindset and a journey-oriented thinking. Drawing from my personal experiences and insightful reflections, I will unpack the importance of creating optional conditions, living by core values, and setting intentions to cultivate a fulfilling life journey.This episode of The Greatness Machine will encourage listeners to explore the richness of the journey, finding meaning, and fulfillment in every step taken. I will also highlight the benefits of breaking free from the treadmill of goal-chasing and cultivating a more fulfilling journey.Topics include: Creating optimal conditions versus obsessing over goals or outcomes The importance of living according to core values The crucial role of setting intentions in achieving personal fulfillment Why it matters to consistently embody who you strive to be in the world 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://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Managing money shouldn’t be complicated—but for many high earners, the traditional wealth management system feels more like a maze than a roadmap to success. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Adam Dell, founder of Domain Money, to explore how financial planning can be simplified for high-earning professionals. Adam shares insights on why traditional wealth management often falls short, the importance of a clear financial roadmap, and how Domain Money is transforming the industry with a transparent, flat-fee approach.In this episode, Darius and Adam will discuss:(00:00 Introduction to Adam Dell and His Journey(04:45) The Evolution of Entrepreneurship(10:12) Navigating Exits and Corporate Transitions(14:58) The Importance of Feedback and Iteration(19:55) Diverse Ventures and Problem Solving(24:50) Wealth Management and Domain Money's Mission(27:20) The Evolution of Wealth Management(30:06) Understanding Domain Money's Target Audience(33:47) Differentiating Domain Money from Traditional Advisors(40:11) The A La Carte Approach to Financial Planning(44:55) Navigating Investment Decisions and Market Trends(49:12) Future Aspirations for Domain MoneyAdam Dell is the Founder and CEO of Domain Money and a serial entrepreneur with four successful exits, including Clarity Money (Goldman Sachs), MessageOne (Dell), Buzzsaw (Autodesk), and Civitas Learning (Francisco Partners). Previously a partner at Goldman Sachs, he led product development for Marcus by Goldman Sachs, launching Marcus Invest, Marcus Checking, and Marcus Insights. Adam has also served as an adjunct professor at Columbia Business School and the University of Texas School of Law. He holds a B.A. from Tulane University and a law degree from the University of Texas.Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Connect with Adam:Website: https://www.domainmoney.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamdell/ Twitter: https://x.com/adamdell Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can a deeper understanding of sex and sexuality empower individuals to enrich their intimate lives and build healthier relationships?Developing a deeper comprehension of human sexuality and intimate connections can pave the way for more fulfilling and healthier relationships, nurturing greater emotional and physical closeness.That is why, Dr. Sadie Allison, a renowned expert in the field of sexual health and wellness, is on a mission to inform and educate about the realm of sexual well-being and relationships. With a diverse portfolio of ventures aimed at enhancing intimacy and pleasure, Dr. Sadie is committed to empowering individuals in their intimate lives.In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius engages in an insightful conversation with Dr. Sadie, exploring her innovative ventures and extensive expertise in the realm of sexual health and wellness. They also delve into the pervasive stigma linked to male vulnerability and sexual performance concerns, emphasizing the need for open dialogues to dispel these issues.Topics include: What inspired Dr. Sadie to write her debut book in 2001 Dr. Sadie discusses the stigma around vulnerability and expressing concerns about sexual performance for men Understanding and exploring your partner's desires and needs is essential for improving sexual experiences The importance of open communication and exploration in intimate relationships to improve sexual experiences The role of sex education and how understanding female anatomy, preferences, and open communication can help bridge the orgasm gap And other topics… Connect with Dr. Sadie:Website: https://golovecbd.com/Website: https://www.ticklekitty.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsadieallisonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sadie.rapsidy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsadieallison/ Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoompdarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the secret to a fulfilled life was as simple as following a set of care instructions — not for a product, but for yourself? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh shares powerful reflections on what it means to care for yourself and live wholeheartedly. Inspired by a simple yet profound list of "care instructions for humans," Darius dives into the importance of self-love, growth, and surrounding yourself with people who bring joy and inspiration. From embracing vulnerability and trusting yourself to dancing like no one's watching, this episode is a heartfelt reminder to nurture your well-being.In this episode, Darius will discuss:(00:00) Introduction and Personal Reflections(02:49) Care Instructions for Self-Care(06:01) The Importance of Love and Connection(08:53) Growth Through Environment and Relationships(11:48) Emotional Expression and Self-TrustCare Instructions: Sit in the sunlight.  Keep hydrated. Move. Walk. Run. Stretch. Raise the beat of your heart. Rattle your lungs. Gasp for breath. Love yourself and others. Love hard and soft. Kiss your family. Hold your best friend’s hand. Make sure to place yourself in an environment that will stimulate growth. If broken or badly damaged, put your pieces back together in a different way. Some pieces will no longer fit where or how they used to. Pain changes the mold of who we once were, but this change can be good. We will be less likely to break apart again at the hands of the same people. We will be less likely to allow the same things to deeply damage us again. Listen to music that will lift your soul. Dance in front of the mirror. Dance with others. Surround yourself with people who will make you laugh from your stomach and smile from your heart. Allow yourself to feel everything. Cry. Be angry. Scream. Smash things. Tell people how you feel. Tell people how they have made you feel. Take responsibility of how you are feeling. Do not stay in these feelings. Speak it, don’t store it. Stop doubting yourself. Set your goals and conquer them. Sponsored by:Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when AI eliminates the need for apprenticeships and reshapes entire industries? In this thought-provoking episode of The Greatness Machine, Taylor Welch dives deep into the evolving landscape of work, the role of AI in eliminating experience gaps, and why creators hold the key to the future. He explores the shift from consulting to education, the rising value of data and attention, and how time wealth is becoming the ultimate currency. If you’re looking to stay ahead in a world where automation is rapidly changing the game, this conversation is a must-listen.In this episode, Darius and Taylor will discuss:(00:00) Introduction to Taylor Welch(01:45) Taylor's Origin Story and Early Career(05:58) Overcoming Overwhelm and Life Lessons(10:30) Bringing in a CEO: The Process and Lessons Learned(15:46) Scaling Consulting Businesses: Strategies and Models(20:25) The Role of AI in Business Scaling(24:40) Optimizing Team Performance and Talent Acquisition(30:25) The Importance of KPI and Performance Management(36:45) The Future of AI in Sales and Consulting(44:01) Understanding Time Wealth and Personal FulfillmentTaylor Welch is an entrepreneur, business consultant, and coach known for his impact in the online training and education industry. As the founder of Welch Equities, he leads a portfolio of businesses focused on driving economic growth through value-driven initiatives. His ventures span sales, marketing, finance, and operations, while also investing in small training and education brands. Committed to making people smarter, happier, and healthier, Taylor combines business success with a strong emphasis on family and personal fulfillment.Sponsored by:Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.Connect with Taylor:Website: https://taylorawelch.com/ Website: https://wealthyconsultant.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorawelch/Twitter: https://x.com/taylorawelch/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/taylorawelch Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. This episode is a paid partnership with The Wealthy Consultant. Sponsored content helps support our podcast and continue bringing valuable insights to our audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is a physician and author specializing in nutritional science and geriatrics, advocating for muscle health and longevity. In this enlightening discussion, she reveals her science-based strategies for aging well, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and protein metabolism for overall health. Dr. Lyon addresses the complexities of dietary information and the phenomenon of 'skinny fat,' stressing that healthy muscle is crucial regardless of appearance. Listeners gain practical insights on building strength and resilience through balanced nutrition and exercise.

Have you ever been in a situation where you were second-guessing yourself because you believed that the right moment to act was yet to come? But what if imperfection was the key to unlocking your full potential?Today, I am flying solo to share a personal journey and reflect on my post-exit from my company The Money Source (TMS). I will also talk about my collaboration with renowned coach Dr. Jeff Spencer, where I learned a valuable lesson: action is not just about doing something; it’s about how it organizes our thoughts and leads to valuable insights. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will reveal the importance of embracing imperfect action, rather than waiting for the perfect moment, as a catalyst for growth. This discussion will also highlight the importance of adaptability, clarifying goals, balancing priorities, and viewing failures as learning opportunities. Topics include: Taking imperfect action versus waiting for the perfect moment or plan Being open to change and optimizing based on feedback and data The importance of having clarity on personal and professional goals Embracing uncertainty and and using failures as learning opportunities Balancing priorities for a more fulfilling life 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://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Episodes with Dr. Jeff Spencer:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/201-jeff-spencer-learning-from-the-coach-of-the/id1555334180?i=1000613647234https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/19-jeff-spencer-pursuit-excellence-towards-winning/id1555334180?i=1000524616706 Sponsored by:Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building wealth isn’t about shortcuts—it’s about strategy. Adam Coffey, bestselling author, private equity expert, and CEO, shares his proven strategy for buying and scaling companies the right way. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Adam returns to break down why paying fair market value leads to bigger wins, the power of roll-ups, and why buying strong companies beats chasing distressed assets. With over 58 acquisitions under his belt, Adam’s insights are a must-listen for business owners, investors, and anyone looking to scale with integrity.In this episode, Darius and Adam will discuss:(00:00) Introduction and Background of Adam Coffey(05:03) Transitioning from CEO to Consultant(09:59) Key Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs(15:03) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs(19:53) The Impact of Technology and AI on Business(29:51) Navigating Change in a Rapidly Evolving Landscape(34:36) The Future of Autonomous Driving and Insurance(37:19) Navigating Private Equity: The Sparkle Process(39:06) Ethics in Private Equity Transactions(46:47) The Importance of Fair Market Value(51:01) Eliminating Risk for Entrepreneurs(56:18) Believing in Yourself: The Key to GreatnessAdam Coffey is a visionary empire builder, CEO coach, and top 1% speaker with three #1 bestselling books. As a founding partner of CEO Advisory Guru, he provides expert consulting to PE portfolio companies, founders, family offices, and elite executives. With over two decades as a CEO, he led three national private equity-backed service companies, generating billions in value and averaging 5X MOIC at exit. A Forbes Business Council member since 2021, Coffey specializes in growth strategy, M&A, and exits. A proud U.S. Army veteran and pilot, he and his family reside in Texas.Listen: 228 | Adam Coffey | Empire Builder: Strategies for Thriving in the World of Private EquitySponsored by:Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.Connect with Adam:Website: https://adamecoffey.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamecoffey/Twitter: https://x.com/AdamECoffey1 Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07NLL55ZC Connect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can you redesign your second adulthood for greater fulfillment and purpose?Drawing inspiration from the wisdom shared by Christine Sperber, this transformation begins with a deep understanding of your values, desires, and the unique contributions you can make. Her remarkable journey from the world of professional snowboarding to her pivotal role at the Modern Elder Academy (MEA) is a testament to the power of reinvention and lifelong learning.Having spent her early years as an elite athlete, Christine realized the importance of embracing change and continuous personal growth. Her transition from the slopes to the world of personal development reflects her deep commitment to helping others navigate life's transitions with grace and intentionality.Joining us on The Greatness Machine, Christine shares her inspiring story of how one can harness their diverse life experiences to create positive change, both for themselves and those they touch through their work.In this episode, Darius and Christine delve into her remarkable journey, transitioning from a career in professional snowboarding to her pivotal role at the Modern Elder Academy (MEA). They discuss MEA's mission to redefine second adulthood, emphasizing the importance of community and shared wisdom in personal growth. Christine's authentic passion and transformative experiences come to light, illustrating her role in guiding others toward greater fulfillment and purpose.Topics include: How Christine shifted from being a pro snowboarder to her current role at MEA What ignited Christine’s passion for experiential education and adventure What made Christine leave her pro athlete career and work on the business side of the snowboarding industry Christine looks back on starting a hotel business in Baja, Mexico Christine shares what MEA is all about and what the program offers The importance of genuine hospitality and care in the MEA culture Viewing the team as the first customer to ensure a positive experience for guests Christine shares her personal challenge with imposter syndrome and underlines the importance of self-confidence And other topics… Connect with Christine:Website: https://www.modernelderacademy.com/ LinkedIn: https://mx.linkedin.com/in/sperbercConnect with Darius:Website: https://therealdarius.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoompdarius/YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtubeBook: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708Sponsored by:Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices