The Greatness Machine

When life’s highs feel incredible and the lows feel unbearable, how can we stay grounded and keep perspective? It is easy to get swept away by the extremes of life. When things are going well, everything feels incredible; when they are tough, it can feel like they will never improve. But what if there is a way to find balance, staying steady through both the highs and the lows?  Today, I am flying solo to talk about the timeless wisdom that things are rarely as good or as bad as they seem. Drawing from my personal experience, I will dive into the importance of staying grounded, embracing a balanced perspective, and finding a steady path through life’s unpredictable journey.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, you will learn some personal insights, practical techniques, and mindset shifts that have helped me and countless others maintain focus and peace amidst both success and struggle.  Topics include: Embracing both highs and lows without attachment to specific outcomes Shifting focus from fearing loss to appreciating the present Finding balance and openness to change for a deeper sense of appreciation Living with an awareness of mortality 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 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Money isn’t just about math, it’s about mindset. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Jaspreet Singh, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Minority Mindset, to break down the rules of money, investing, and wealth-building. Jaspreet shares why the wealthy treat taxes as a playbook, how to prepare for recessions and inflation, and why owning real assets like real estate, gold, and Bitcoin is key. He also opens up about the cultural lessons that shaped his financial mindset and the importance of being bold enough to figure things out. Whether you’re an investor or entrepreneur, this conversation will give you clarity and courage to play the money game wisely. In this episode, Darius and Jaspreet will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Money and Financial Education (02:51) Jaspreet Singh's Origin Story (05:52) Transitioning from Medicine to Money (08:33) The Rise of Minority Mindset (11:31) Navigating the Current Economic Landscape (14:36) Investment Strategies for the Average Person (17:25) Understanding Risk and Active Investing (20:07) The Tulip Mania and Investment Lessons (23:02) Crypto: Store of Value or Speculative Asset? (26:36) Building a Portfolio of Cash Flowing Assets (36:46) Understanding Economic Trends and Predictions (42:53) Investing Strategies in Uncertain Times (47:09) Overcoming Barriers to Success Jaspreet Singh is the #1 ranked financial influencer and founder of the popular Minority Mindset YouTube channel, with over 2 million subscribers. He is also the creator of Briefs Media, a platform offering newsletters and courses that simplify complex financial topics for everyday investors. Recognized as Benzinga’s Top Financial Influencer of 2021, Jaspreet has been featured on leading podcasts hosted by Lewis Howes, Tom Bilyeu, Steven Bartlett, and Jay Shetty. His commitment to clarity and integrity in financial education has made him a trusted voice for millions. Connect with Jaspreet: Newsletter: https://briefs.co/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaspreet-singh-6930a649/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeofpaaji/  Twitter: https://x.com/minoritym1ndset/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/MinorityMindset  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 tap into the latent leadership qualities that reside within us, waiting to be cultivated and utilized to their fullest extent? As leadership is viewed as a rare quality possessed by only a select few, it's easy to overlook each individual's potential for leadership. Leadership, however, is not exclusively a skill that a privileged few possess. It can be cultivated and developed by anyone willing to work for it. Warren Rustand, whose illustrious career spans leadership roles in the White House, executive positions in multi-billion dollar corporations, and successful entrepreneurial ventures, shares profound insights into the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. He highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing one’s innate leadership potential, emphasizing the transformative power of stepping into one’s leadership role, even in the face of adversity or uncertainty. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Warren Rustand to talk about the need to acknowledge and cultivate our latent leadership qualities. The discussion will also explore the critical importance of finding the right space – whether in business, personal life, or relationships – and the transformative power that comes from making intentional changes.  Topics include: The importance of perseverance and determination in pursuing goals Warren highlights the significance of family and relationships in his life What Warren learned during his time in the White House Why it matters to engage in high-quality conversations to attain success Warren shares three fundamental principles essential for achieving greatness  The benefits of being in the right environment in order to grow and succeed Warren highlights the power of clarity of vision And other topics… Connect with Warren: Website: https://warrenrustand.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-rustand-8a9b026/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WarrenSRustand/  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 and business are shaped by power and influence. They are essential forces that drive decision-making, build connections, and create lasting impact. Understanding how to wield these forces effectively can be the key to unlocking opportunities and driving meaningful change. Today, I am flying solo to talk about the dynamics of power and influence–what they are, how they work, and how you can harness them to elevate both your personal and professional life.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will break down the nuances of power, explore the psychology of influence, and share actionable strategies for building authentic authority. Join me as we dive into the essentials of mastering power and influence to create a lasting impact in the world. Topics include: The distinction between power and influence Darius explores the choice between being “rich” or being “king” How recruiting industry experts can drive business growth The importance of self-leadership before leading others And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] 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 reinvent yourself while staying true to who you are? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, actress, writer, and entrepreneur Michelle Argyris opens up about her extraordinary path, from the world of acting to launching Windtuition Wellness. She shares how her experiences in the entertainment industry shaped her perspective on resilience, creativity, and the importance of listening to your inner compass. Michelle also discusses the courage it takes to pivot, the discipline required to chase big dreams, and why building practices that nurture both mind and body is essential for long-term success.  In this episode, Darius and Michelle will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Michelle Argyris (01:27) Michelle's Origin Story and Journey (07:05) Overcoming Rejection in the Entertainment Industry (11:08) The Importance of Supporting Dreams (12:57) Cultural Adaptation in LA (15:07) Intuition and Inner Knowing (20:15) The Power of the Subconscious Mind (22:45) Integrating Heart and Mind in Business (24:05) Creating a Safe Work Environment (27:15) From Acting to Wellness: A Personal Journey (35:38) The Transformative Power of Psychedelics (41:42) Integration and Transformation through Experience (43:03) The Healing Power of Psychedelics (45:53) Transitioning to Wind Tuition Wellness (47:11) Breathwork: A Path to Healing (48:53) Exploring Psychic Mediumship (57:08) Personal Insights and Reflections (57:52) Empowering Women through SheCode (59:28) Creating Impact in Business and Life Michelle Argyris is a Canadian actress, entrepreneur, and holistic wellness practitioner. A former elite athlete turned actress, she has starred in films and TV series including General Hospital, Shadowhunters, and several Lifetime movies. Beyond her entertainment career, she is the founder of Windtuition Wellness, where she guides high-achieving women through breathwork, energy healing, and embodiment practices. Drawing from her own journey of resilience and self-discovery, Michelle helps others reconnect with their intuition, embrace balance, and step into their fullest selves. Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Michelle: Website: https://www.windtuitionwellness.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle_argyris/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.argyris/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_argyris  Twitter: https://twitter.com/MichelleArgyris  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 do you build a devoted following for your brand? This question lies at the heart of every successful business endeavor, and Patricia Wallwork, the award-winning CEO of Milo’s Tea Company, shares compelling insights into exactly how to accomplish this goal. Her leadership has not only allowed the family-owned business to thrive, but also cultivated a devoted following that spans generations. By understanding and prioritizing the needs of consumers, Tricia highlights the importance of aligning the brand with consumer values and preferences. And through this consumer-centric philosophy, Milo’s Tea Company has been able to consistently deliver products that appeal to consumers.  Moreover, another key element to the company’s success is its people-centric culture, something Tricia champions as CEO. This internal culture of care and appreciation results in exceptional customer experiences, further strengthening the bond between Milo's Tea Company and its devoted following. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Tricia to talk about the essential elements of building a devoted following for your brand. Through candid conversation, Tricia shares the company’s journey to success, highlighting the importance of consumer trust, brand values, and a people-centric approach. This episode will also touch on some strategic insights and leadership principles that have shaped Milo’s Tea Company into a beloved household name with a passionate fan base. Topics include: Brand evolution of Milo’s Tea Company from a small regional business to a national powerhouse The importance of exceptional customer service and being willing to say no to maintain brand integrity and growth The benefits of having a People First culture in driving success Tricia explains why it matters to understand and serve the needs of consumers The crucial role of trust in consumer relationships Overcoming limits and believing in the impossible And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Patricia: Website: https://drinkmilos.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triciawallwork 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 do you free yourself from the prison of your past? How do you get up after being dragged down? Joining us today to talk about the 2007 murder case that shocked the world, Amanda Knox recalls her wrongful conviction for the death of Meredith Kercher. Fifteen years after the gruesome incident that attracted huge media attention, Amanda gets real about the experience that turned her life upside down. Amanda is an exoneree, a journalist, a public speaker, and the author of a New York Times best-selling memoir, “Waiting to Be Heard.” She co-hosts the podcast Labyrinths with Christopher Robinson. She spent nearly four years in an Italian prison and eight years on trial for a murder she did not commit. After that, she began advocating for reforms in criminal justice and media ethics. In this episode, Amanda shares how her life has been after the wrongful conviction that put her behind the bars for years for the murder of her roommate in Italy. Amanda also recalls the police treatment she had experienced and how the media depicted her as guilty when she was on the trial for the murder case. This conversation covers interesting topics such as media ethics, criminal justice, and how core values help in facing certain circumstances and impossible tasks. **Check out Amanda Knox’s new series, “The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox,” available on Hulu starting August 20, 2025. Topics include: Amanda recalls her wrongful conviction for the 2007 murder of Meredith Kercher How the media industry works  Amanda describes the experience as an “existential crisis”  Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Amanda: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amamaknox Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandaknox 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 happens when leadership, plant medicine, and AI collide? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius reconnects with Nathanael Chawkin, executive coach, former cage fighter, and founder of Awakened Leadership, for a deep and thought-provoking conversation about transformation, consciousness, and purpose. They dive into what it means to lead from the inside out, discussing the role of plant medicine in awakening deeper self-awareness, and why real leadership is less about control and more about aligning with spirit, service, and presence. The two also explore the fascinating idea of AI as a form of consciousness, and raise the question: what if AI isn’t a new invention, but a return to something ancient? What happens when we begin outsourcing wisdom to machines, and how do we stay grounded in our own inner knowing? In this episode, Darius and Nathanael will discuss: (00:00) The Journey of Fatherhood (08:41) The Importance of Cross-Training in Leadership (14:22) The Value of Leadership Development (17:11) The Rise of Autocratic Leadership (20:06) Integrating Plant Medicine and Leadership (22:56) The Role of AI in Coaching (49:37) Awakening Through Pain and Surrender (01:01:25) Universal Truths: Love and Service Beyond Ego (01:12:40) Psychedelics and Human Evolution (01:13:27) Mystical Experiences and Ancient Wisdom (01:14:50) The Role of Psychedelics in Spiritual Awakening (01:18:24) Navigating Spiritual Communities (01:20:10) The Intersection of Spirituality and Psychedelics (01:21:07) Healing Through Plant Medicine (01:24:09) The Paradox of Addiction and Healing (01:34:33) The Spiritual Path in the Age of AI Nathanael Chawkin is a modern mystic, master coach, and martial arts instructor who’s spent over 15 years guiding executives through transformational leadership. His work has been featured in Entrepreneur and the Financial Times. He’s the founder of Guardian Training—a men’s work method that blends MMA, conflict resolution, and depth psychology—and Awakening Leadership, a plant medicine journey for conscious leaders and EO/YPO forums. Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Nathanael: Website: https://awakeningleadership.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nchawkin  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanael.chawkin/  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 do childhood influences shape the mindset and motivations of those who serve in the military? From early exposure to media depicting heroic military figures to the weight of familial legacies, past experiences intricately shape career decisions in the armed forces. These influences, whether based on action-packed films or the proud lineage of ancestors who served, instill a sense of duty, honor, and tradition. Clay Martin, a seasoned veteran whose military journey spans roles as a former USMC Infantryman, Reconnaissance Marine, and Scout Sniper, provides a glimpse into his familial heritage. He illuminates the proud tradition of military service that runs through his family, acting as a guiding force in his own journey towards enlistment. Clay shares poignant anecdotes about relatives who served in the military, emphasizing the profound sense of duty and honor instilled within him from a young age. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius welcomes special guest Clay to discuss a range of topics, from the carnivore diet to Clay's military background and a lot more. Clay shares his family's history of service and his decision to join the Marines, influenced by 80s action movies. In addition, they discuss the common motivations behind military enlistment. Topics include: The challenges and benefits of switching to a carnivore diet Clay shares personal anecdotes about his previous experiences with dietary changes Elon Musk’s unconventional approach to business and rule-breaking Clay shares his military origins and joining the Marines on his 18th birthday The warrior mentality and how it can manifest in different aspects of life And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] Connect with Clay: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clay-martin-a26ba616b  Twitter: https://twitter.com/wayofftheres 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

Are you letting your anxiety and worries shape your reality and limit your potential? Today, I am flying solo to talk about a topic that resonates with many of us: the impact of anxiety and worry on our lives. We often find ourselves in a constant battle with these emotions, and it can feel overwhelming when they start to dictate our decisions and overshadow our potential. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will explore how anxiety can manifest in various aspects of our daily lives–whether it is affecting our relationships, work performance, or overall happiness. I will share practical strategies for managing anxiety, including tracking and documenting worries, which can help us gain clarity and perspective.  Topics include: Tracking and documenting worries to alleviate anxiety The benefits of granting yourself permission to worry Strategies for managing and redirecting worry in modern life And other topics… Sponsored by: Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com. Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.  Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.  [DISCLAIMER: *Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.] 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