The Greatness Machine

What if the key to overcoming fear wasn’t avoiding worst-case scenarios, but facing them head-on with a simple yet powerful mental shift? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and the practice of Premeditatio Malorum—the premeditation of potential misfortunes. He shares a personal story of navigating a high-stress business crisis and how working with a cognitive behavioral therapist led him to the transformative "And Then" exercise. Discover how this mindset shift can help you break free from anxiety, regain control, and embrace resilience in the face of uncertainty. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Exploring Stoicism and Premeditatio Malorum (11:48) Resilience and the Journey of Starting Over (18:14) Embracing Risk and the Sweet Juice of Life Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. 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 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 does it take to turn a struggling company into a global powerhouse? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with turnaround legend Peter Cuneo, the executive who helped lead Marvel Entertainment from bankruptcy to becoming one of the most successful entertainment empires in history. Peter opens up about the leadership principles that guided Marvel’s transformation, from rebuilding top creative talent and setting a clear strategic direction to fostering a culture of accountability and innovation. He shares how focusing on people, discipline, and long-term vision can turn even the most distressed companies into thriving, purpose-driven organizations. In this episode, Darius and Peter will discuss: Peter talks about rebuilding Marvel by bringing back top creative talent He emphasizes disciplined, strategic leadership in every turnaround The importance of a strong culture in driving long-term success Peter shares lessons on decision-making under pressure Developing future leaders through experience and mentorship The value of perseverance and clear purpose in business recovery And other topics… Peter Cuneo is an American businessman renowned for his leadership in corporate turnarounds across the media and consumer products industries. Best known for revitalizing major brands, he served as CEO of Remington Products and as Vice Chairman of Marvel Entertainment, where he helped steer the company from bankruptcy to a $4 billion sale to Disney. Over his career, Cuneo has successfully completed seven major business turnarounds, including at Clairol, Black & Decker, and Marvel. He later founded Cuneo & Company, an investment firm focused on consumer, media, and entertainment ventures, achieving notable successes such as a 13x return on the sale of Valiant Entertainment. He has also held leadership roles on several corporate boards and, in 2024, became Chairman of OCSiAl, a nanotechnology company based in Luxembourg. Sponsored by:  Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Peter: Website: https://www.petercuneo.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-cuneo/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Superhero-Leadership-Courage-Strength-Compassion/dp/1510783849  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/superhero-leadership-with-peter-cuneo/id1706007621  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 Write 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 go from just being a leader to being a truly inspirational leader? To transition from merely being a leader to one who truly inspires, it is necessary to understand the dynamics of influence and impact. Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, a luminary in the realm of leadership and executive coaching, discusses key principles that can facilitate this transformation. It starts with recognizing the power of intentionality in communication and decision-making. Inspirational leaders, as Marshall highlights, pause to consider whether their actions align with the goal of making a positive difference. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Marshall to delve into the nuances of effective leadership. Through insightful anecdotes and practical wisdom, Marshall elucidates the importance of making a positive difference, fostering trust, and embracing self-awareness on the journey toward greatness in leadership. Topics include: Influencing decisions through understanding and addressing the needs of others Making positive difference rather than proving oneself right The crucial role of honoring other people’s perspectives Embracing the uncertainties in business and being open to other possibilities Being ready to adapt and willing to acknowledge mistakes Being cautious about out-of-hours emails or messages The importance of purposeful communication Recognizing and de-stigmatizing self-interest in business Encouraging long-term planning but understanding the practical challenges And other topics… Sponsored by:  Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Marshall: Website: https://marshallgoldsmith.com/ Website: https://marshallgoldsmith.ai/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshallgoldsmith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachgoldsmith/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/coachgoldsmith/ 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 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 makes a business partnership work, and what quietly tears it apart? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into the hidden dynamics that can build or break partnerships. He explains that success isn’t just about shared goals or profits but about true alignment. Through the idea of “scorecards,” Darius shows how partners can unknowingly measure success in completely different ways. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial experiences, he highlights why clarity, transparency, and shared values are key, and how defining a common scorecard can keep partnerships strong and thriving. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Scaling a Business (02:56) The Importance of Choosing the Right Partners (06:11) Characteristics of Great Business Partners (11:56) Generosity in Partnerships (14:48) Staying in Your Swim Lane (19:06) Understanding Give and Take in Partnerships (22:49) Seeking Consensus in Decision Making Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  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 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 does it take to stay strong, sharp, and healthy for life? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, fitness entrepreneur and transformation coach Dan Go joins Darius to share how discipline, mindset, and strength training can change not just your body, but your entire life. From quitting his corporate job to building a 7-figure coaching business, Dan breaks down the principles of lasting fitness: why building muscle is key to longevity, how nutrition is deeply psychological, and why success in health (and life) starts with consistency over perfection. He also reveals the surprising connection between leg strength and brain power, his no-BS take on mobility work, and the “infinite game” mindset that keeps him growing no matter how far he’s come. In this episode, Darius and Dan will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Fitness Goals and Transformation (09:15) Dan Go's Personal Journey and Transformation (14:32) The Evolution of Fitness Coaching and Social Media (22:23) Target Audience and Coaching Philosophy (26:35) The Role of AI in Fitness Coaching (31:16) Aging and Its Impact on Fitness (34:35) Emerging Technologies in Health and Wellness (39:55) The Importance of Muscular Health (47:10) Nutrition: The Key to Body Transformation (53:39) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Dan Go is a fitness entrepreneur, performance coach, and founder of High Performance Founder, where he helps entrepreneurs optimize their health to match their ambitions. With over two decades in the fitness industry, he’s known for his practical, no-nonsense approach to training and lifestyle design, empowering high achievers to boost energy, focus, and longevity so they can thrive in both business and life. Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Connect with Dan: Website: https://www.dango.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danfounder/ Twitter: https://x.com/FitFounder/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEzSFZRs8zJb5x5depOtUHA  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 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered what it takes to balance the adrenaline rush of hurtling down a bobsled track with the discipline of military service, all while aiming for Olympic gold? Riley Tejcek, a support specialist at Expeditionary Warfare School at the Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia, exemplifies resilience, ambition, and unwavering dedication as she navigates the dual worlds of elite athletics and military service.  While striving to become the first female Marine to compete in the Olympics, Riley navigates the challenges of training, competition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, all while breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Riley to talk about her journey as an athlete and a captain in the Marine Corps. This episode will also explore her path to becoming an Olympic hopeful, overcoming self-doubt, and achieving greatness in both sports and military service. Topics include: The importance of pushing boundaries, taking risks, and embracing challenges The most common challenges for athletes pursuing niche sports Riley provides a concise overview of bobsledding, the intense speeds, and danger Riley looks back at the adrenaline-filled experience of her first time in a bobsled The physical toll of bobsledding and the effects of G-Forces on the body Riley talks about the rigorous selection process to secure a spot on the Olympic team Riley discusses her unexpected path into the military Riley reflects on her experience participating in the Miss Military 2023 pageant The benefits of overcoming self-doubt by taking bold steps And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  Connect with Riley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/riley-tejcek-b264902b9  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riley.tejcek/ 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 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life is unpredictable, but what if you could face every challenge with unshakable strength and clarity? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and shares seven key lessons from the ancient philosophy, inspired by Ryan Holiday and “The Daily Stoic.” From avoiding unnecessary suffering to breaking free from the victim mindset, Darius unpacks timeless wisdom from Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and more. Tune in for a deep dive into how Stoic principles can help you navigate life with resilience, self-awareness, and purpose. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Stoicism and Personal Journey (01:27) Seven Stoic Principles for a Better Life (02:48) The Importance of Not Complaining (05:14) Avoiding Comparison with Others (07:37) The Power of Listening (10:29) Judgment and Empathy (12:51) Finding Balance and Temperance (16:45) Energy and Living a Good Life (18:39) Reflections on Life Experiences Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  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 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 greatest investment you could ever make isn’t in your retirement account, but in the people you love most, right now? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Derek Coburn, financial advisor, author of “Let’s Retire Retirement: How to Enjoy Life to the Fullest―Now and Later,” and USA Today bestselling author, to challenge the conventional idea of “saving life for later.” Together, they explore why waiting until 65 to finally live is a flawed plan, and how small, everyday choices like family dinners, workouts with your kids, or even junk time on the couch can become priceless $50,000 moments you’ll wish you could buy back one day. In this episode, Darius and Derek will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Clubhouse Connections (02:24) Derek's Book Journey and Success (05:31) The Art of Asking for Support (09:23) Writing Process and Midlife Reflections (15:05) The Concept of Retirement Revisited (18:10) The Tale of Two Tonys (23:31) Challenging Traditional Retirement Norms (26:22) The Importance of Social Networks in Work Life (27:43) Engagement and Longevity: The Case for Never Retiring (29:30) Purpose vs. Happiness: The Science Behind Meaningful Living (32:12) Serving Others: A Path to Fulfillment (36:19) Finding Balance: Work, Purpose, and Personal Satisfaction (38:31) The Financial Equation: Extending Your Runway (40:36) The Entrepreneurial Perspective on Retirement (43:40) Regret Minimization: Making the Most of Time (48:10) Creating Meaningful Moments with Family (54:54) Final Thoughts: Embracing Life Now and Later Derek Coburn is an entrepreneur, financial advisor, and USA Today bestselling author of “Let’s Retire Retirement: How to Live Your Life to the Fullest—Now and Later.” With over 27 years of experience, he challenges the traditional retirement model and offers a new vision for building a life so fulfilling you’ll never want to retire. He is also the co-founder of CADRE, an exclusive community for CEOs and entrepreneurs, and the author of the #1 Amazon bestseller “Networking Is Not Working.” Featured in Forbes, Derek is a passionate advocate for investing in experiences and relationships over material success. He lives in Virginia with his wife Melanie and their two sons. Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  Connect with Derek: Website: https://www.derekcoburn.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekcoburn/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cadredc/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Lets-Retire-Retirement-Enjoy-Fullest_Now/dp/1774585065  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 Write 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 we embrace artificial intelligence without losing our humanity in the process? The use of AI has revolutionized the way we work, communicate, and live. But despite this, there is a growing concern that technology will undermine our sense of humanity and lead to a loss of human connection. Embracing technology without sacrificing human values requires a balanced approach, helping us to create a future where AI serves as a tool to improve lives rather than a force that dehumanizes our experiences. Brian Evergreen, through his book Autonomous Transformation: Creating a More Human Future in the Era of AI, dives deep into how AI can be harnessed to drive efficiency and innovation while keeping human needs and values at the forefront. He highlights practical frameworks and methodologies for leaders and organizations to implement AI responsibly, ensuring that the shift to autonomous technology is guided by human-centered principles. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Brian to discuss the evolving landscape of AI and autonomous technology. They explore the potential of AI to reshape industries, eliminate inefficiencies, and create new opportunities, while also addressing concerns about the deflationary impact of automation. Topics include: Brian dives deep into his book Autonomous Transformation Brian talks about his chess background and the lessons he learned from it Learning critical and creative thinking skills through chess What makes chess different from other games The impact of autonomous AI on professional services The benefits of having a more human-centered approach to technology And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  Connect with Brian: Website: https://brianevergreen.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianevergreen Book: https://www.amazon.com/Autonomous-Transformation-Creating-Artificial-Intelligence/dp/1119985293  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 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a world filled with distractions and endless desires, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But what if the answers to living a more meaningful life were already written in ancient wisdom? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh delves deep into the teachings of Stoicism and how they can help us live with intention and purpose. Drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of figures like Marcus Aurelius, he shares insights on how to reduce anxiety, focus on what truly matters, and show up as the best version of ourselves every single day. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Anxiety and Stoicism (02:46) Marcus Aurelius on Perception and Anxiety (06:07) Epictetus: Imagined Anxieties vs. Real Problems (09:04) Seneca: The Power of Imagination (11:53) Living in the Present: True Happiness (14:48) Nature's Control and Personal Responsibility (17:47) Practical Tools for Managing Anxiety The 10-Second-Rule Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/307-the-10-second-rule/id1555334180?i=1000673543121  Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.  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 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices