The Greatness Machine

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius discusses a top near and dear to his heart - leadership and the things every leader needs to know in order to be the best leader they can be, no matter their field.  You'll discover a little about Darius' background and his long-standing desire to be a leader in all his endeavors. You'll learn the three things that every leader 'owns' in their business.  You'll also discover how those three things apply to your business and how you leverage them to your full advantage.  Join Darius as he offers his take on leadership, both inside and outside business. Topics include:  A little about Darius' background and his long-standing desire to be a leader in all his endeavors The three things that every leader 'owns' in their business How those three elements apply to your business How you leverage them to your full advantage 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

Is college really the only pathway to success? Shayla Gifford, entrepreneur, loan officer, Branch Manager at Guild Mortgage, VP of Sales Development, and national coach, has proven that a college diploma is not the only key to success.  Leaving behind the confines of a classroom, her insatiable curiosity and unwavering ambition propelled her toward a destiny far beyond what she could have imagined. The journey, however, was not without its challenges. Shayla faced rejection and failure before she found success outside of her comfort zone.  Join us as we unravel the story of a college dropout who defied expectations, defied convention, and emerged as a game-changing entrepreneur. In this inspiring episode, Darius and Shayla share their invaluable lessons as entrepreneurs. They highlight the importance of persistence, transcending comfort zones for success, being coachable, and thinking bigger. Tune in for motivating insights that will empower your entrepreneurial journey. Topics include: What Shayla learned during her involvement in network marketing What inspired Shayla to value authenticity over conformity How Shayla handled rejections during her transition into the mortgage business Finding and appreciating people’s great qualities when recruiting and leading them The benefits of building a close-knit team and fostering a supportive environment The importance of persistence and not letting temporary obstacles define failure Achieving success outside of your comfort zone How to be coachable and why it matters What makes a good coach The value of thinking bigger and not limiting oneself And other topics… Connect with Shayla: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaygiff/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayla-gifford-3019396/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGaSsziZzd-RGC4KebhRyqw  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 Nik Bhatia, financial researcher, CFA charterholder, and Adjunct Professor of Finance and Business Economics at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business where he teaches Applied Finance in Fixed Income Securities.  Previously, Nik worked the US Treasuries trading desk for a large institutional asset manager and has extensive trading experience in money markets and interest rate futures.  After starting his teaching career, Nik felt the urge to bring his research on both the international monetary system and Bitcoin together as one to write the book Layered Money: From Gold and Dollars to Bitcoin and Central Bank Digital Currencies. You'll discover some of the primary misconceptions people have about Bitcoin. You'll learn how to think of Bitcoin as a digital version of gold. You'll also discover Bitcoin's current market capitalization. Join Darius and Nik for this fascinating and eye-opening discussion. Topics include: Some of the primary misconceptions people have about Bitcoin Seeing Bitcoin as a digital version of gold Bitcoin's current market capitalization And other topics… Connect with Nik: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nik-bhatia-cfa-cmt-b549b858/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/timevalueofbtc  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 business, failure on some level is inevitable. Whether it be a small stumble or a huge mistake, often the greatest business lessons can be found in those dark moments. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius shares the story of one of his biggest triumphs, which ultimately led to his biggest failure and the lessons he learned along the way.  You'll discover the story of Darius' first big success that led to his first really big failure. You'll learn the lessons he took from that failure and how it informed his future decisions.  You'll also discover what it was like to be running a mortgage brokerage during the 2008 collapse. Join Darius as he offers some insights into recovering from failure in your business. Topics include:  The story of Darius' first big success that led to his first really big failure The lessons he took from that failure and how it informed his future decisions. What it was like to be running a mortgage company during the 2008 collapse. 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

What if the key to unlocking humanity’s full potential lies in embracing the unique perspectives and contributions of those who have been overlooked or undervalued throughout history? Stacy Spikes’ journey as an outsider in the tech industry is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Recognizing that he did not fit the conventional image of a successful tech entrepreneur, he fearlessly confronted the barriers before him, driven by a desire to break down not only the mold but also the glass ceiling that loomed above. His experience navigating the intricacies of the tech world provided invaluable lessons about the challenges of being an outsider. But instead of viewing it as a hindrance, Stacy discovered that his unique position granted him a distinct advantage. By embracing his outsider perspective, he saw the untapped opportunities and unexplored niches that others may have overlooked.  Joining us on today’s episode of The Greatness Machine, Stacy talks about his book, Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider, where readers are taken on a powerful and transformative journey that combines an inspiring memoir with a candid exploration of the challenges faced by a trailblazing business leader.  In this episode, Darius and Stacy discuss Stacy’s entrepreneurial journey, including his experiences with MoviePass and his motivation to start Urbanworld Film Festival. Stacy shares some key takeaways from his book, Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider, offering guidance to fellow founders, and emphasizing the importance of overcoming mental barriers to success. They also recount MoviePass' rise and fall, its acquisition, and its triumphant return with a sustainable model.  Topics include: What sparked Stacy’s passion for the entertainment industry that lead him to pursue a career in Hollywood Stacy looks back at his experience and challenges working on soundtracks at Miramax How the events of 9/11 have left a profound impact on Stacy’s perspective How Urban World has helped launch the careers of notable filmmakers and actors Stacy shares his take on embracing diversity  What motivated Stacy to start a nonprofit festival called Urban World Co-founding Urbanworld Films and what the company offers to moviegoers  The challenges of co-founding MoviePass and what it took to fund the app What the future looks like for MoviePass What inspired Stacy to write Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider And other topics… Connect with Stacy: Website: https://www.stacyspikes.com/ Website: https://www.moviepass.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacyspikes/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stacyspikes/  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 David Siegel, CEO of Meetup.com, where he oversees its global business. Meetup currently has 52 million members, hosts 15,000 events daily, and has events in 193 countries. David also hosts the “Keep Connected” podcast, devoted to the power of community. He is a business leader and expert in building personal and professional communities. You'll discover how Meetup started and how it has impacted communities. You'll learn what happened when WeWork acquired Meetup. You'll also discover the concept of "Decide and Conquer," 44 decisions that will make or break all leaders. Join Darius and David as they discuss the power of professional communities. Topics include: How Meetup started and how it has impacted communities What happened when WeWork acquired Meetup Decide and conquer: 44 decisions that will make or break all leaders And so much more… Connect with David: Website: https://www.meetup.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmsiegel/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Davidmeirsiegel  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 you build it, they will come." Most of us know that line from the film, 'Field of Dreams.' It's inspirational, but not a great strategy when building a business - especially when it applies to the core values of your business. In June of 2008, Darius attended an event in which he experienced a "gut punch" that completely changed the trajectory of his life and forced him to rethink the way he ran his business. In this quick solo outing, Darius shares the story of his life-altering experience - and it all came down to three simple questions, starting with, "Does your business have core values?" Core values are powerful tools for any business, but, as Darius discovered, there's far more to them than it appears. You'll learn why creating core values for your business is important, but only the beginning of the process, not the end. You'll discover why 9 out of 10 business owners get the idea of "core values" wrong. You'll also learn about the power of "invisible scale" and how you can use this strategy to massively build your business. Core values are powerful tools, but only if they're understood and used correctly by everyone in your business. Stay tuned to the end for an exciting announcement about a new project Darius will be debuting shortly! Topics include: Why three questions at an event completely changed the trajectory of Darius' life Why having core values and knowing what they actually are... are two completely different things The power of "invisible scale" 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

Are you tired of simply letting life happen to you, or are you ready to take charge and design a life that truly reflects your aspirations and desires? In a world where routines and obligations often dictate our daily lives, it's easy to lose sight of our own dreams and ambitions. We find ourselves going through the motions, yearning for something more but unsure of how to break free from the monotony. Jack Daly, an experienced and inspirational sales trainer, and sales coaching expert, is a true testament to the power of designing one's own life and stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, dedication, and a clear vision converge. From humble beginnings, he defied the odds and carved a path that led him to the life he had always envisioned. Driven by an unwavering determination, Jack pursued his dreams relentlessly, navigating through challenges and setbacks with resilience and an unyielding spirit. He understood that success was not a stroke of luck, but the result of strategic planning, purposeful actions, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. In this episode, Darius and Jack dive deep into a captivating conversation that spans various aspects of personal and professional growth. They explore Jack's early passion for sales, which ignited during his formative years and paved the way for his entrepreneurial endeavors. They discuss the transformative power of setting goals and the significance of writing them down.  Topics include: Jack’s passion for sales began at a young age and led to early entrepreneurial ventures The benefits of setting goals and writing them down  The importance of defining what success means to oneself What it matters to put your bucket list out in the universe and share it openly The value of defining and pursuing one’s own goals and desires in life Why you should focus on starting and finishing rather than winning Recognizing and tapping into your untapped potential in all areas of your life Taking control of your mindset and choosing positivity to eliminate bad days And other topics… Resources mentioned: Open by Andre Agassi: https://www.amazon.com/Open-Autobiography-Andre-Agassi/dp/0307388409 A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle: https://www.amazon.com/New-Earth-Awakening-Purpose-Selection/dp/0452289963  Connect with Jack: Website: https://jackdalysales.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackdaly/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ironmanjack  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 Jason Feifer, Editor in Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine, host of the Build for Tomorrow and Problem Solvers podcasts, and the author of Mr. Nice Guy and Build for Tomorrow. He's also worked as Editor of Men's Health, Fast Company, Maxim, and Boston Magazine, and has written about business technology for The Washington Post, Slate, and others. Jason is best known as the guy who gets you excited for the future. He's passionate about helping people become more resilient in a world of constant change, so they can seize new opportunities before anyone else does.  You'll discover how Jason made the decision about what he wanted to do with his life. You'll learn the one crucial mistake people make when writing for a publication. You'll also discover why you need to be bad at something, in order to be good at it.  Topics include: How Jason made the decision about what he wanted to do with his life The one crucial mistake people make when writing for a publication Why you need to be bad at something, in order to be good at it And other topics… Connect with Jason: Website: https://www.jasonfeifer.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonfeifer/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyfeifer/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/heyfeifer/ 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

Are you feeling bogged down by the monotony of your daily life? On today’s show, Darius talks about enjoying the journey rather than incessantly worrying about the end results.  Like many of us, Darius loves his cup of morning coffee. And he obsesses about getting the right beans, the temperature, and adding the correct amount of milk.  Recently, a friend of Darius’s bought an expensive coffee machine that automated the entire process. While this made it extremely easy to make the perfect cup of coffee, Darius realized that he enjoyed the process of making his cup of coffee way more than drinking the coffee itself. On today’s show, you will learn why you need to fully immerse yourself in the process to enjoy the outcome.  Darius also shares how the simple act of making a cup of coffee aligns with his SIX Core Values. And why you should strive to apply this same passion and love to all your aspects of life. Topics include: Enjoying the journey rather than incessantly worrying about the outcome Finding joy in the mundane chores that typically bog us down How to approach every aspect of your life with love and passion 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