The Greatness Machine

What if you could build an empire from scratch, navigate the world of private equity, and exit your business for millions? How would you make it happen? Imagine if you had the opportunity to earn the strategies and secrets of entrepreneurs who have successfully built empires, thrived in the competitive landscape of private equity, and eventually exited their businesses for significant wealth. These individuals have blazed a trail, overcoming obstacles, and achieving remarkable success. One such entrepreneur, Adam Coffey, founding partner of CEO Advisory Guru LLC, a best-selling author, and an acclaimed international speaker, has a story work exploring. His journey from startup struggles to navigating the intricacies of private equity and ultimately achieving his exit strategy serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished with determination, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Adam explore the world of entrepreneurship, private equity, and business success. Adam shares his journey from youthful exuberance to seasoned expertise, emphasizing the importance of mindset in overcoming challenges. They discuss building and exiting businesses, the power of embracing risk, and Adam's mission to mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs. This episode is filled with valuable insights for aspiring business leaders, regardless of their stage in the entrepreneurial journey. Topics include: How Adam’s journey into entrepreneurship and private equity began Adam looks back on the things he learned during his military service and GE tenure The importance of treating employees well and fostering a strong culture in today’s workforce Adam explains the importance of the lower middle market in private equity The strategy of “buy and build” in the private equity world Adam advises looking for opportunities to expand revenue streams and diversify offerings within the core business How youthful exuberance and energy can help you navigate challenges Adam shares what his newest book, Empire Builder, aims to educate and provide And other topics… Connect with Adam: Website: https://adamecoffey.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamecoffey/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/adam_coffey  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Chris Pronger, an NHL Hall of Famer, Stanley Cup Champion, NHL MVP, and 2x Olympic Gold Medalist (4x Olympian) who's building a travel company in the same mold as his professional hockey career. His boutique luxury travel company, Well Inspired Travels, caters to elite athletes, entertainers, C-level executives, and business owners. This has been a passion project for him and his wife, Lauren, for many years.  You'll discover the importance of continually moving forward, even after achieving your goals. You'll learn the factors that fuel people to keep pushing despite adversity. You'll also discover how to raise the bar higher by improving your strengths and weaknesses. Join Darius and Chris for this fascinating and inspiring discussion. Topics include: The importance of moving forward after achieving your goals Understanding what fuels people to keep pushing despite adversity Raising the bar higher by improving your strengths and weaknesses. And other topics… Connect with Chris: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechrispronger/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/chrispronger  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 seems the economy at the moment is in turmoil. We're seeing Bitcoin under 20,000. The markets are down. The Dow Jones has reached 30,000, S&P was around 3600. On top of this volatility, there's a housing boom happening all around us. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius goes solo to offer some insights on housing based on his past experience running one of the largest servicers and lenders in the United States. That business managed hundreds of billions of dollars of mortgages, and Darius uses that experience to offer his thoughts on the current boom.  Join Darius for this eye-opening discussion into the housing market and benefit from his insights and tips!  Topics include: Why we need to focus more on hard facts than on media speculation Data on the monthly supply of new houses in the US provided by the St. Louis Fed The "very short-term demand shock" that is causing much of the volatility we're seeing in the market. 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

Trigger Warning: Suicide Discussion This episode discusses suicide and its prevention. It may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know needs help, please seek professional assistance. Listener discretion is advised. Can a single conversation save a life? Kevin Hines, a renowned mental health advocate, author, and speaker, has dedicated his life to suicide prevention and promoting mental wellness. He works with organizations, schools, and communities to provide resources and support to those in need. Drawing from his personal journey, he became a leading voice in the fight against suicide, working tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide. His story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right support, recovery is possible, and every life is worth saving, In observance of National Suicide Prevention Week, Kevin joins us on The Greatness Machine to talk about his courageous journey from the edge of despair to becoming a global advocate for mental health. In this episode, Darius and Kevin engage in a profound discussion covering a wide range of topics related to mental health, suicide prevention, and personal resilience. They highlight dispelling misconceptions about suicide, nurturing human connections, and addressing the dangers of excessive screen time and instant gratification culture. Topics include: Three miracles that played a crucial role in Kevin’s survival from a suicide attempt How a passage in Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s book saved Kevin’s life The importance of taking suicide threats seriously The significance of dispelling misconceptions about suicide Why it matters to understand and attend to the needs of loved ones The erosion of face-to-face communication and its impact on human connections The dangers of excessive screen time for children’s developing brains Concerns surrounding instant gratification culture The importance of addressing suicide prevention at home Kevin advocates for age restrictions on social media platforms Why it is important to teach discipline and resilience to children through activities And other topics… Connect with Kevin: Website: https://www.kevinhinesstory.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinhinesstory  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinhinesstory/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYZeM7MIkXtU_--r9BlDTQA  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 This episode is sponsored by: Zbiotics: Head to ZBiotics.com/GREATNESS and use the code GREATNESS at checkout for 15% off Shopify: Go to shopify.com/darius to take your business to the next level Factor: Go to factormeals.com/greatnesspod50 and use code greatnesspod50 to get 50% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A marketing funnel is a fundamental part of many businesses. The concept is designed to illustrate the journey a person takes with your business, from a stranger just learning about your company, to an eventual purchase and beyond. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Ryan Levesque, CEO of The ASK Method® Company, entrepreneur, and #1 bestselling author of the books, 'Choose' and 'Ask.'  Ryan has made the Inc. 500 list five times and over 250,000 entrepreneurs subscribe to his email newsletter offering business advice. His work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USA Today, Forbes, Entrepreneur, and on NBC News and Fox. Additionally, he is the co-founder and an investor in bucket.io®, a leading quiz funnel software used by over 30 million people every year. Topics include: How Ryan’s life shifted when he was in China What it's like starting multiple digital businesses What the Ask Method Process and Ask Method Quiz Funnel actually are And other topics… Connect with Ryan: Website: https://askmethod.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanlevesque/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/askryanlevesque/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askryanlevesque/  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius does a deep dive into the concept of inflation and its effects on the economy, as well as the way it’s calculated, both now and in the past.  In this episode, you'll discover how inflation is truly calculated, how the Consumer Price Index factors in, why understanding inflation requires research... and patience, some of the biggest changes that have happened to the way inflation is calculated and presented.  Join Darius for this fascinating look into a subject we've all heard of, but probably don't understand as well as we'd like: inflation.  Topics include: How the Consumer Price Index factors into calculating the inflation rate Why patience and some degree of deep-digging is required to truly get a grasp on inflation as the government presents it Changes that have been made to the way inflation is calculated over time And other topics… Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can you leverage the power of content creation to not only connect with your audience but also uncover new business opportunities and solve their pressing needs? Ryan Pineda, a dynamic entrepreneur and content creator, has made waves in the business world with his innovative approach to real estate and digital media. His journey from flipping couches to flipping real estate properties showcases his relentless drive and adaptability. His story is a testament to the power of adaptation and identifying market demands. Through podcasts, courses, and platforms like WealthyWay.com, Ryan not only connects with his audience but also empowers them to improve their lives. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Ryan explore the importance of purpose and determination in achieving greatness. Ryan's entrepreneurial journey, marked by an "all in" attitude, takes center stage. They discuss his evolution from flipping furniture to real estate, dissect the fear of risk-taking, and stress the value of embracing risks for growth. Ryan also emphasizes the multifaceted nature of wealth, beyond finances, and shares insights on transitioning to the digital world, building a digital presence, and audience engagement. Topics include: The value of having a strong sense of purpose and determination when striving for greatness What pushed Ryan to pursue entrepreneurship and how he started his journey in the field Ryan explains his “all in” approach to everything he does How Ryan transitioned from flipping furniture to flipping houses The common causes of fear of taking risks Ryan emphasizes the benefits of taking risks and continuously seeking improvement The importance of wealth in various aspects of life beyond financial wealth Ryan discusses his transition from the real estate industry to the digital world The importance of building a digital presence and audience Understanding the needs and feedback of your audience And other topics… Connect with Ryan: Website: https://www.ryanpineda.com/ Website: https://www.wealthyway.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanpineda/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/RyanPineda YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanPineda  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

People dream about the glamorous world of spying all the time, though sadly the reality never lives up to the fantasy. However, many of the skills used by real spies could help you in your everyday life. If only there was a way for a civilian to learn those skills... In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with someone who has created resources to do just that! Andrew Bustamante is a former covert CIA intelligence officer, decorated military combat veteran, and Fortune 10 corporate advisor. Having led human and technical intelligence operations for corporate and government clients for over 20 years, Andrew launched EverydaySpy.com, the first online platform designed to teach elite spy skills to everyone.  Media outlets in the United States and around the world have praised Andrew's work for its innovative, authentic, and life-changing content. When he isn’t giving interviews, running spy exercises, or supporting private intelligence contracts around the world, Andrew lives with his wife (also an ex-CIA Officer) and two children in Florida. Topics include:  How Andrew's life shifted from that of a normal guy to that of an ‘accidental spy’ Why MISinformation and DISinformation are two distinct and different concepts What inspired Andrew to create EverydaySpy And other topics… Connect with Andrew: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-bustamante-mba-89812a10b/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/EverydaySpy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayspy/ 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

Today, Darius offers up a fascinating discussion around a quote from psychiatrist Carl Jung that has rocked his world and may just change your life as well! You'll discover the quote that rocked Darius' world and how it could change your life. You'll learn what happened at his MIT event and some of the amazing people and ideas he encountered there. You'll also discover the pivotal question he was asked by a former guest that opened up a whole new avenue of thought. Join Darius as he shares some life-changing ideas from his MIT event. Topics include: The quote that rocked Darius' world and how it could change your life What happened at his MIT event and some of the amazing people and ideas he encountered there The pivotal question he was asked by a former guest that opened up a whole new avenue of thought. And other topics… Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can you transform your health, defy conventional wisdom, and embrace a life of vitality and purpose? Dr. Kevin Hoffarth, founder and owner of BioFIT Medicine, is a distinguished expert in the field of functional medicine and a passionate advocate for optimal health and longevity. With over two decades of experience in the medical field, Dr. Kevin has emerged as a leading figure in redefining traditional healthcare approaches and promoting proactive well-being. His extensive knowledge spans various aspects of health, including nutrition, hormone replacement therapy, metabolic disorders, and the vital connection between mind and body. Through his book, Functional Medicine: The New Standard, Dr. Kevin provides invaluable insights and practical guidelines to individuals seeking to transform their health. Joining us on The Greatness Machine, Dr. Kevin talks about his journey of switching from traditional medicine to functional medicine, which was driven by a deep commitment to improving health and providing patients with more effective, comprehensive solutions to their health challenges.  In this episode, Darius and Dr. Kevin explore various topics, including Dr. Kevin’s upbringing in a medical family, his transition from traditional to functional medicine, the founding of BioFit Medicine, challenges faced by doctors, the distinctions between functional and traditional medicine, the importance of healthspan, and the transformative effects of hormone replacement therapy on brain function and overall well-being. Topics include: What it was like for Dr. Kevin to grow up with medical influences in his family What pushed Dr. Kevin to transition from traditional medicine to functional medicine What inspired Dr. Kevin to establish BioFit Medicine The most common challenges and limitations doctors face How functional medicine differs from traditional medicine The importance of extending healthspan rather than focusing on longevity The benefits of hormone replacement therapy in both men and women How hormones affect a person’s brain function, executive functioning, and mood regulation And other topics… Connect with Dr. Kevin: Website: http://www.biofitmedicine.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-hoffarth-md-ifmcp-2829598b Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/biofitmedicine/  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