The Greatness Machine

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

On today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Derrick Kinney, CEO of Good Money Framework and host of the popular Good Money podcast, which inspires you to make more money and use it for good. Derrick's belief that money is not bad and good people should possess more of it is designed to change your perspective.  Having applied these proven principles with thousands of clients, he's sold his multimillion-dollar business to teach you these success steps. He's been a sought-after guest on local and national media, where he has been interviewed by CNBC, FOX News, CNN, FOX Business, PBS, Cheddar News, and the Wall Street Journal, among others. You'll discover Derrick's journey to becoming an entrepreneur. You'll learn about rejection and how to overcome it. You'll also discover the experience that led Derrick to an epiphany. Join Darius and Derrick as they discuss ways to change your perspective on money! Topics include: Derrick's journey to becoming an entrepreneur Rejection and how to overcome it An experience that led Derrick to an epiphany And other topics… Connect with Derrick: Website: https://www.goodmoneyframework.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derricktkinney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DerrickTKinney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derricktkinney/  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 is flying solo at MIT Endicott house, outside Boston, Massachusetts. In it he shares the story of how he launched his first company and the hustle required to make it successful. You'll discover a little about Darius' early days in business. You'll learn what happened when he moved to San Francisco at 23 with $1,500 to his name and $10,000 of credit card debt. You'll also discover how he was able to turn that $1,500 into $15 million of gross revenue in his business between 2001 and 2007. Join Darius as he offers advice on chasing a dream and what happens when you truly hustle. Topics include: A little about Darius' early days in business What happened when he moved to San Francisco at 23 with $1,500 to his name and $10,000 of credit card debt How he was able to turn that $1,500 into $15 million of gross revenue in his business between 2001 and 2007 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

Ever realized how storytelling goes beyond marketing, actually influencing product value, brand perception, and the triumph of company exits? The benefits of storytelling contribute to the long-term growth and success of a business by shaping its identity, influencing how it is perceived, and building a loyal customer base. People are drawn to stories that resonate with their experiences, values, and aspirations. And by crafting a unique and authentic narrative, businesses can differentiate themselves and leave a lasting impression on consumers.  Clay Hebert, a visionary in this real, delves into the art of weaving narratives that define the trajectory of businesses. As a renowned entrepreneur, storyteller, and marketing strategist, he has a proven track record of helping companies craft compelling narratives that not only drive growth but also resonate with their target audience.  His insights into the art of storytelling have been shared on stages worldwide, inspiring countless individuals to leverage storytelling for business success.  Today, he is joining us n The Greatness Machine to look back on how it started, who inspired him, and how he became the man that he is right now.  In this episode, Darius and Clay explore Clay's journey from selling candy bars to embracing entrepreneurship and creative marketing. They emphasize the power of personal connections over sales pitches, the influence of Seth Godin, strategic customer selection, and the creation of the "Perfect Intro" framework. The conversation underscores how storytelling shapes product value, brand perception, and company success, encapsulating Clay's expertise in marketing, entrepreneurship, and storytelling dynamics. Topics include: How Clay learned an early lesson in marketing by selling candy bars What inspired Clay to shift towards entrepreneurship and creative marketing The importance of creative thinking and adapting to different environments in overcoming creative blocks The value of personal connection over sales pitches How Seth Godin played a vital role in Clay’s entrepreneurial journey Clay explains why strategic customer selection matters in a business Clay recalls his encounter with Matt Mullenweg and how that meeting led to the idea of the “Perfect Intro” framework How the power of storytelling impacts a company’s life cycle And other topics… Resources mentioned: Purple Cow: https://www.amazon.com/Purple-Cow-Transform-Business-Remarkable/dp/014101640X  This is Marketing: https://www.amazon.com/This-Marketing-Cant-Until-Learn/dp/0241370140/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 Creative Act: https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Act-Way-Being/dp/0593652886/ref=sr_1_1  Connect with Clay: Website: https://clayhebert.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayhebert/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/clayhebert  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 Tucker Max, co-founder of Scribe Media, a company that helps you write, publish, and market your book. He's written four New York Times Best Sellers (three that hit #1), which have sold over 4.5 million copies worldwide.  Tucker has been credited with being the originator of the literary genre, “fratire,” and is only the fourth writer (along with Malcolm Gladwell, Brené Brown and Michael Lewis) to have three books on the New York Times Nonfiction Best Seller List at one time. He was nominated to the Time Magazine 100 Most Influential List in 2009. You'll discover the concept of the 'ultimate reality' and how you can better understand it. You'll learn the importance and impact of community and having a group. You'll also discover why it's vital to choose the right people to surround yourself with. Join Darius and Tucker for this fascinating look into the state of the world, and how we're headed for disruption, whether we realize it or not. Topics include: The concept of the 'ultimate reality' and how to understand it The importance and impact of community and having a group Choosing the right people to surround yourself with And other topics… Connect with Tucker: Website: https://www.tuckermax.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuckermax/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtuckermax/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TuckerMax/  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