The Greatness Machine

What steps can you take to turn your aspirations into reality and move from where you are right now to where you truly want to be? Reaching your desired destination from your current position is an exciting and transformative endeavor. It requires a combination of vision, determination, effective decision-making, and actionable techniques. Katy Milkman, through her book How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, introduces various psychological concepts, such as habits, motivation, and self-control, and explains how these factors impact our ability to make lasting changes. Drawing from her expertise as a behavioral scientist and professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Katy provides readers with practical insights and techniques for transforming their lives. Throughout the book, she highlights the significance of self-reflection and self-awareness in the change process. Katy also encourages readers to identify their own patterns, biases, and obstacles, offering strategies to overcome them and cultivate new habits that align with their aspirations. In this episode, Darius and Katy engage in a captivating conversation covering a range of topics. They explore how Katy's passion for research ignited during her undergraduate studies and delve into the motivations behind her pursuit of behavioral economics. Katy opens up about her purpose in writing her book, How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be. They discuss the power of fresh starts and how they can enhance motivation, the importance of well-planned methodologies and tools for achieving success, the benefits of temptation bundling, and the effectiveness of commitment devices in increasing productivity. Topics include: How Katy discovered her passion for research during her undergraduate studies What motivated Katy to pursue and embrace research and behavioral economics Katy shares her purpose for writing How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be The power of fresh starts and how they boost your motivation The importance of having a well-planned methodology and tools to achieve success Substantial benefits of temptation bundling Using a commitment device to get more things done And other topics… Connect with Katy: Website: https://www.katymilkman.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-milkman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katymilkman/ 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

Imagine working in a business with no managers and, seemingly, no structure or hierarchy. A business run on that model would be an exercise in chaos ...or would it?  That's just one of the many misconceptions people have about holacracy, a new form of business management promoted and developed by today's guest. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Brian Robertson, seasoned entrepreneur, organization builder, recovering CEO, and developer of holacracy, a management practice that promises to embrace people's individual humanity, autonomy, and creative problem-solving capacities. You'll learn what holacracy is, along with some of the most common misconceptions people have about the system. You'll discover a little of Brian's background, as well as how holacracy works within an organization. You'll also learn about the concept of roles and why boundaries are so vital in a business run on the holacracy model. Join Darius and Brian as they explore this exciting new way to do business! Topics include: An explanation of what holacracy is, along with some of the most common misconceptions people have about the system A little of Brian's background, and how he came to develop his work with holacracy The concept of roles and why boundaries are so vital in a business run on the holacracy model And so much more… Connect with Brian: Website: https://www.holacracy.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-robertson-517182/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/h1brian 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

Many of you must have made ambitious New Year resolutions. The past year (2020) was a disaster and understandably you are keen to make up for the lost time. Before you start working towards your audacious goals, do take a moment to stop and think – will you be in a state of permanent bliss once you scale your mountaintop?  Will the air be better?   Will life be funnier?  And will people be nicer? No, right?  Then, if life is going to be the same once you achieve your big goal, what is the whole point of working tirelessly, day in, day out? In today’s show, Darius shares HOW discovering your core values and leading a purpose-filled life will resolve this conundrum for you. Topics include: Why your journey is more important than your destination How discovering your core values can help you lead a purpose-filled life How avoiding comparisons will lead to a more enjoyable, purpose-driven 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://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 individuals transform their expertise into a powerful force for positive change, shaping industries and leaving a lasting impact on the world? Henk Rogers, a video game icon turned climate change activist, is dedicated to creating positive change through technology and renewable energy. As the founder of the Blue Planet Foundation, he actively promotes the advancement of clean energy policies and technologies. He is a strong proponent of utilizing renewable sources like solar and wind power to combat climate change and achieve energy independence. In addition to his work in the renewable energy sector, Henk continues to be involved in the gaming industry. He co-founded The Tetris Company, which manages the intellectual property rights of Tetris, and has been instrumental in expanding the reach and influence of the game across various platforms. In this episode, Darius and Henk discuss the factors that contributed to the massive success of The Black Onyx as the pioneering role-playing game in Japan. They also delve into Henk’s four missions in life, emphasizing his commitment to creating positive change through technology, sustainability, and the power of human potential. Topics include: What contributed to the huge success of The Black Onyx as the first role-playing game in Japan The impact of discovering and acquiring the rights to the game Tetris How Henk got involved in the Tetris movie How a near-death experience has made Henk realize what he wants to accomplish Founding Blue Planet Foundation and building awareness for clean energy Henk shares his four missions in life And other topics… Connect with Henk: Website: https://blueplanetalliance.org/  Website: https://henkrogers.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henkrogers/ 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

If asked, most entrepreneurs would describe themselves as mavericks, rebels, or even ‘unemployable.’ They possess a unique combination of drive, ambition, and intelligence that makes working for someone else difficult if not impossible. This burning desire to go their own way means that entrepreneurs tend to take an unusual approach to education. Such is the case with today's guest. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with David Osborn, a self-proclaimed 'chaotic entrepreneur' and principal owner of the 6th largest real estate company in the US, with 4,500+ agents responsible for over 19,000 transaction sides and $10 billion in sales in 2017. Born in the US but raised in Europe, David was selected as a National Merit Scholar, he attended the University of Texas and graduated with an economics degree. You'll discover a little about David's unusual background and his belief that entrepreneurs often have an aggressive father in their background to inspire them. You'll find out why he started working in real estate with his mother almost as an afterthought, with no plans to stay in the career. You'll learn what it truly means to 'pivot' as an entrepreneur and how he's used it to achieve great success. You'll also discover the power of investing in passive income vehicles as a way to ensure success and weather crises. Join Darius and David as they map out the unusual path of an entrepreneur, and discuss why money should be more of a means to a goal rather than a goal in and of itself. Topics include: How growing up in Europe gave David an appreciation for the US, and how he ended up working in real estate almost by accident What it means to ‘pivot’ as an entrepreneur The importance of investing in passive income vehicles. And other topics… Connect with David: Website: https://www.davidosborn.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrosborn/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdavidosborn/  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

What do you hold onto tightly? What are the things you find yourself most attached to? We often find ourselves clinging to certain things, ideas, or identities, developing attachments that shape our perceptions and influence our actions. But have you ever paused to reflect on what exactly you’re attached to? What are the things that hold immense significance in your life? Today, I am flying solo to reflect on the attachments I used to hold toward titles, power, and respect. I will also shed light on the realization that attachments can both empower and restrict personal growth.  Join me in this captivating episode, where I explore the emotional rollercoaster of success, failure, and the unexpected changes that exposed the depth of my attachments. Prepare to delve into the depths of self-reflection and gain valuable insights into the potential limitations and opportunities that arise from our attachments. Topics include: Embracing meditation and the positive impact it has on a person’s overall well-being How my attachment as a CEO and entrepreneur affected my relationships The importance of releasing attachments and finding true happiness The value of self-reflection and self-improvement 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

Have you ever wondered how you can unlock your full potential and create a life of purpose and fulfillment? In a world filled with endless possibilities, many of us find ourselves longing for a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. We yearn to unlock our full potential and live a life that truly aligns with our passions and values. But how do we bridge the gap between where we are now and where we want to be? Sean Magennis, CEO of a 29-year-old private, multi-faceted Financial Services Firm, Mutual Capital Alliance, joins us on the Greatness Machine to discuss the significance of perspective, moving beyond survival mode, and leaving room for making a difference in various aspects of life. In this thought-provoking episode, Darius and Sean delve into the importance of recognizing our responsibilities and the impact we can have on society and ourselves. They also share some insights into the transformative power of resilience and reinvention, especially during challenging times, and how support networks can make all the difference. Topics include: The benefits of living in the present and reflecting on the past Why it is important to choose the right people to collaborate with The significance of hard work, humility, and leadership in creating a successful environment Taking risks and venturing into unfamiliar territories for business Embracing an eclectic lifestyle and finding beauty in the environment Recognizing the value of receiving help from others and building trusted relationships The importance of early childhood education and the impact it has on an individual's potential Understanding personal responsibilities as a citizen, spouse, parent, and member of the community Moving beyond survival and finding ways to make a positive difference in various aspects of life And other topics… Connect with Sean: Website: https://seanmagennis.com/  Website: https://www.ypo.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanmagennis/  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

What does your "ideal" life look like? It's different for each person, but what you're imagining is your version of uncommon success. In today's episode of "The Greatness Machine," Darius talks with John Lee Dumas, founder and host of Entrepreneurs on Fire, an award winning podcast that has featured over 2700 guests, a million monthly listens and 18 million in revenue since 2012. Through EoF, JLD has interviewed inspiring, successful entrepreneurs including Tony Robbins, Barbara Corcoran, Tim Ferriss, Seth Godin, Gary Vaynerchuck and more to help entrepreneurs "fire up" their journey. You'll learn how JLD shifted from a military background to running a multi-million dollar business. You'll discover The one single question you must ask yourself in order to be successful in the podcast world. You'll also learn the two key steps for creating uncommon success taken from his new book, The Common Path to Uncommon Success. Join Darius and JLD as they light the spark that will help you ignite your business and take it to new levels! Topics include: How John went from a military background to running a multi-million dollar company The ONE question you need to ask yourself in order to make it big in the podcast world Two key steps for finding uncommon success straight from his book, The Common Path to Uncommon Success And other topics… Connect with JLD: Website: https://www.eofire.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eofire/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnleedumas/  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered what it takes to revolutionize the snack food industry and create a lasting impact with boldness and innovation? Stacy Madison, a trailblazer in the food industry, has carved a remarkable path to success with her unwavering determination and innovative approach. From humble beginnings, she took the risk and had her breakthrough with the creation of Stacey’s Pita Chips, a product that revolutionized the snacking landscape. With her keen business sense and commitment to quality, she turned a simple homemade recipe into a nationwide sensation. Embracing change and staying true to her entrepreneurial spirit, Stacy later sought to create a snack that not only satisfied cravings but also prioritized health and convenience with BeBOLD Bars. In this episode, Darius and Stacy delve into her inspiring journey from clinical social worker to food cart entrepreneur. They discuss Stacy's bold transition and the challenges she faced attracting customers despite the negative perception of carts. They explore the secrets of successful brand-building and the importance of customer understanding during pivotal moments.  Topics include: How Stacy transitioned from being a clinical social worker to pursuing her passion for food by starting a food cart The negative perception of carts before and how it made it challenging to attract customers The benefits of gathering feedback from customers The secret to a successful brand-building The importance of taking a step back, recognizing strengths, and focusing on customer understanding during a pivot How the COVID-19 Pandemic affected Stacy’s food cart business Why it matters to expect and be prepared for the challenges that come with entrepreneurship What happened when Stacy’s company take on Trader Joe’s as a client What drove Stacy to sell her company to Pepsi in 2006 What the future looks like for BeBOLD Bars And other topics… Connect with Stacy: Website: https://beboldbars.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beboldbars/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_stacymadison/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-madison-09430a7  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 do your working relationships influence both your happiness and success? When we think about the amount of time we spend at work and the significant role our colleagues play in our daily lives, it becomes clear that fostering positive and supportive relationships is crucial. Building strong working relationships, however, can sometimes be challenging. Conflicts, differing perspectives, and personality clashes are inevitable in any workplace.  Michael Bungay Stanier, a renowned author, speaker, and leadership coach, provides invaluable insights and practical strategies for navigating the complexities of working with diverse personalities in his newest book, How to Work with (Almost) Anyone: Five Questions for Building the Best Possible Relationships.  Best known for his expertise in coaching, workplace relationships, and organizational development, he explores the nuances of different personalities and provides strategies to bridge gaps, manage differences, and find common ground. In this episode, Darius and Michael reveal the secrets behind building strong working relationships, the power of coaching to drive behavior change, and the art of navigating organizational change. Michael will also share insights from his new book, How to Work with (Almost) Anyone, offering valuable strategies for creating impactful connections and embracing transformation. Topics include: How Michael won the Rhode Scholarship and made it to Oxford University What Michael learned while working at an innovation company How Michael got into entrepreneurship after a job offer fell through The most common challenges of publishing and selling books Building safe, vital, and repairable working relationships Writing for people who interact with others Michael explains his new book How to Work with Almost Anyone How to make change happen in an organization The effects of coaching on a person’s behavior Embracing change and saying “no” to certain situations And other topics… Connect with Michael: Website: https://www.mbs.works/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Almost-Anyone-Michael-Bungay-Stanier/dp/1774582651  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbungaystanier/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbs_works/  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