The Greatness Machine

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

The world of martial arts and of business may seem to have no points of connection.  However, there are powerful lessons there to be found, particularly around the ideas of conscious leadership and effective team building. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Nathanael Chawkin, founder and CEO of Palaestra Leadership, and a mindfulness and martial arts instructor about his practice-based approach to team building. You'll find out why a business's core values can't just remain "on the wall" - they must be infused into your executive team and practiced on a daily basis. You'll learn how Nathanael is turning development into a team sport, helping leaders have tough conversations with heart, and creating radical new levels of trust, connectedness, and team flow. You'll discover why getting your team "on the mat" and sharing their truth with you is vital to creating powerful interpersonal dynamics and greater team flow.  Join Darius and Nathanael for this powerful discussion on conscious leadership and creating a team that operates and communicates with purpose and in alignment with the core values of the business.  Topics include: Using consistent, daily practice to take your core values "off the wall" and incorporate them into all aspects of your executive team The importance of getting your team "on the mat" - asking your teammates to share their truth with you Why you must learn to receive feedback before you can give it effectively And other topics... Connect with Nathanael: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanael.chawkin/?hl=en  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nchawkin/  Palæstra Leadership: https://www.thepalaestra.com/  Awakening Leadership: https://awakeningleadership.org/  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 one break free from fear and live a fearless life? Fear has a remarkable ability to hold us back, trapping us within the confines of our comfort zones. But what if we could break free from the shackles of fear and live a truly fearless life? Imagine the possibilities that would unfold if we could face challenges head-on, pursue our dreams with unwavering determination, and embrace uncertainty with open arms.  Drawing on the wisdom of Dandapani’s The Power of Unwavering Focus, I will share some of the effects of fear and worry on one’s personal growth.  In his book, Dandapani emphasizes that fear often arises from a scattered and undisciplined mind, and adds that fear is often rooted in the mind’s projections about the future or past, rather than the present moment.  Today, I am flying solo to talk about living without limits and embracing a fearless life. Join me for another inspiring episode as I discuss the secrets to living a life free from the constraints of fear and discover the incredible rewards that await those who dare to step outside of their comfort zones.  Topics include: Identifying with certain traits or behaviors can limit personal growth How preoccupation with the future affects personal growth Grounding oneself in the present moment And other topics… Resource mentioned: The Power of Unwavering Focus: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Unwavering-Focus-Dandapani-ebook/dp/B09N6ZVT9M  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 we humans spend most of our time on? They say how you choose to spend your time is a reflection of how you choose to live your life. Every decision, every moment invested, contributes to the tapestry of your existence. Regrettably, some realize the things that matter most when it is too late and the opportunities have already slipped away. During his final days, Steve Jobs yearned to develop a genuine connection with his family. Recognizing the value of these precious bonds, he sought to bridge the gaps and delve into the depths of familial relationships, cherishing the opportunity to know and be known by those closest to his heart.  Jim Sheils, a renowned advocate for strong family relationships, has introduced a transformative concept known as the “Family Board Meeting.” This innovative approach emphasizes dedicated quality time with loved ones, allowing families to connect deeply and create lasting memories.  Through the Family Board Meeting, Jim guides families in setting aside intentional moments to foster understanding, communication, and growth. By implementing this powerful practice, families can strengthen their bonds and cultivate a harmonious and fulfilling family life. In this episode, Darius and Jim engage in a captivating discussion about the profound influence Steve Jobs had on Jim's perspective on family and the subsequent impact on his own relationships. They explore the value of applying core principles from business success to family life. They also discuss the crucial role of positive anticipation in generating excitement within the family dynamic, as well as the need for intermittent tech fasting to foster meaningful interactions. Topics include: What Jim learned from Steve Jobs and how it affected his relationship with his family Recognizing the value of applying core principles from business success to family life How Jim started holding family board meetings every 90 days  The benefits of starting with simple and realistic goals The value of regular one-on-one time with children The importance of carving out time from mornings, nights, and weekends to spend with family The crucial role of positive anticipation in creating excitement Why it is important to have intermittent tech fasting to allow meaningful interactions And other topics… Connect with Jim: Website: https://www.18summers.com/  Website: https://jimsheils.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jim_sheils/ 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 show, Darius interviews Jimmy Farris. Jimmy is a former American football wide receiver who retired from the NFL in 2009. Farris has been a member of the Washington Redskins, Atlanta Falcons, and New England Patriots. Today, Jimmy shares why it is important to rediscover your purpose in life. When you have a singular goal in life, and then life sets you on a different path, how can you reset, realign and rediscover your passion and purpose in life? We start this show with Jimmy sharing his interesting backstory. From a young age, Jimmy had one clear goal in mind – to play for the NFL. And that he did and how. Jimmy graduated from playing football for his high school and the University of Montana to the big league – the NFL. As an NFL player, Jimmy shares that he was accorded a demi-god status. Being an NFL player opened up doors for Jimmy. Meeting other celebrities or company CEO’s was a cakewalk. The adulation, the love of fans…Jimmy was truly living his dream. So, when Jimmy retired at the age of 30, he felt a massive loss of identity, passion, and purpose. He felt that everything that he prized so dearly was, in an instant, snatched away from him.  Was all the love, adulation, and tribute for his position? And not him, as a person?   How could he get people to respect him once again? How could he find another “mountaintop” that was worth scaling?  Topics discussed in today’s show include how to be your absolute best and how to enjoy the pursuit of your goal. Topics include: How to find another “mountaintop to scale” – rediscovering your motivation in life Is all the tribute and adulation for you or for your position? How to be your absolute best And other topics… Connect with Jimmy: Website: https://jimmyfarris.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmyfarris/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmyfarris/  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 perfect day look like? Imagine a day where work is not a burden but a fulfilling pursuit. You engage in meaningful tasks that bring you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Whether you are pursuing a career you love or making a difference in your own business, your work feels like an extension of your passions. But it’s not all about work. Your perfect day includes time for self-care and well-being. You prioritize your physical and mental health, engaging in activities that rejuvenate and energize you. You cherish quality time with your loved ones, nurturing relationships that bring you joy and support.  Today, I am flying solo to delve into the concept of a perfect day and share my personal realization on uncovering life’s true priorities and the profound impact it had on my perspective. Join me as we embark on a journey of self-discovery to find meaning and purpose in our pursuit of a perfect day. In this episode, we will also explore what truly matters in our lives and how it shapes our daily experiences.  Topics include: The two types of wealth most people often prioritize How I struggled with prioritizing professional and financial success over personal well-being and time wealth The concept of designing a perfect day, both personally and professionally The importance of finding a balance between personal and professional time What an ideal workday looks like 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 we find meaning when life seems devoid of purpose? Jamie Wheal, a renowned author, speaker, and expert on the subject of peak performance and flow states, explores the pressing question of how we can regain a sense of awe, wonder, and meaning in our lives and society in his new book Recapture the Rapture: Rethinking God, Sex, and Death in a World That’s Lost Its Mind. Drawing from his extensive research in fields such as neuroscience, psychology, and anthropology, Jamie examines the impact of societal and cultural factors on overall well-being and sense of meaning. He explores the human longing for transcendence and proposes a roadmap for individuals to reclaim a more vibrant, purpose-driven existence. Jamie also suggests that reclaiming a sense of rapture–a deep, transformative experience of wonder and connection–is crucial for our personal growth and the overall health of our society. Join Darius and Jamie in this episode as they talk about purpose, authenticity, and the importance of having real-world experiences in order to become a better human being. Jamie also gives an overview of the Flow Genome Project, how it started, and what the research and training organization offers. Topics include: Jamie’s unique upbringing as an immigrant and adapting to a new culture What inspired Jamie to start the Flow Genome Project What is the Flow Genome Project and what they offer How Jamie realized the need to make a career shift to pursue his purpose The importance of authenticity and doing what truly matters Why it matters to take action and gain real-world experience Jamie gives an overview on neuroanthropology Jamie explains what the Homegrown Humans podcast is all about And other topics… Resource mentioned: The Attention Merchants: https://www.amazon.com/Attention-Merchants-Scramble-Inside-Heads/dp/0385352018  Recapture the Rapture: https://www.amazon.com/Recapture-Rapture-Rethinking-Death-World-ebook/dp/B08DNT8B9B  Connect with Jamie: Website: https://www.flowgenomeproject.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowgenome/  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

Do you wear a mask in your professional life? Not the mask you wear to protect yourself from COVID, but the kind of mask where you hide your true, authentic self. In today's episode of "The Greatness Machine," Darius chats with Michael Brody-Waite, acclaimed speaker, leadership coach, recovering addict, and the author of Great Leaders Live Like Drug Addicts. Michael shares some of his amazing stories, one of struggle, inspiration, and unapologetic humanity. You'll learn how Michael's journey began, and how he believes that every experience, both good and bad, prepared him for the moment he made the decision to get clean. You'll find out why the idea that we have to hide our humanity (particularly our weaknesses) in the professional world can be an obstacle to becoming a great leader. You'll learn the three principles that addicts in recovery have been using for decades to take control of their lives, and how those principles can be adapted to develop powerful leadership skills. You'll discover how his story led to being invited to create a powerful viral TedTalk... and why it almost didn't happen. You'll also learn why, in the areas of personal and professional development, we're long on inspiration but short on implementation. Join Darius and Michael for this heartfelt and inspiring discussion on living "mask-free" and thriving in all areas of your life. Topics include: Michael's journey from addiction, through recovery and into a new life filled with gratitude, success, and continuous learning How practicing rigorous authenticity and surrendering the outcome became essential components of his road to recovery Why hiding our true selves in the professional world actually gets in the way of great leadership The process that led Michael to his viral TedTalk - and how it almost never happened. And other topics… Connect with Michael: Website: https://michaelbrodywaite.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbrodywaite/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikebrodywaite Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelbrodywaite/  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 building a championship team or a recipe for failure? Jack Welch, the legendary business executive and former CEO of General Electric (GE), understood the critical importance of people and values in building successful organizations. He believed that the key to a thriving company lies in having the right people who not only possess the necessary skills and competencies but also align with the core values of the organization. For Jack, there is no middle ground when it comes to values. In fact, he emphasized that competency in commitments and living the core values are the two essential factors in evaluating the suitability of individuals in a team.  He also believed that the right people contribute to making the CEO’s life easier and help foster a positive and thriving organizational culture. On the other hand, individuals who do not align with the values become a hindrance, causing damage to the organization’s ability to grow and succeed. In this episode, I delve into a range of topics that shed light on the remarkable success achieved by Jack Welch. I will also talk about the key factors that contribute to the overall success and cohesion of an organization, and why hiring for value alignment is crucial to the success of a company. Topics include: The success Jack Welch achieved during his tenure at General Electric (GE) The importance of understanding the underlying principles of success The most crucial things for the success and cohesion of the organization Core values and how they help build a successful organization Why it matters to hire for value alignment And other topics… Resource mentioned: Lessons on Winning and Profitability from Jack Welch: https://neilpatel.com/blog/winning-and-profitability/  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 should you own if the U.S. dollar collapses? Peter Schiff, a prominent economist and financial commentator, has long been critical of the monetary policies of the United States and expresses concerns about the long-term viability of the U.S. dollar.  He points out the unsustainable nature of the U.S. national debt and emphasizes that the growing levels of indebtedness pose a serious threat to the dollar’s long-term strength. He argues that the U.S. government's persistent budget deficits, coupled with its reliance on borrowing from foreign entities, weaken the dollar's status as a trusted reserve currency. To protect against the potential death of the U.S. dollar, Peter consistently recommends diversifying investments into tangible assets such as gold and other precious metals. He believes that holding physical assets with intrinsic value can serve as a safeguard against the potential devaluation of fiat currencies, including the U.S. dollar. In this episode, Darius and Peter dive deeper into topics related to economics, finance, and investing. They talk about the economic outlook, Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies, and the merits of investing in precious metals as a hedge against inflation and financial uncertainty. Topics include: What could possibly replace the U.S. dollar as the world reserve currency Differences between real gold and fake gold (Bitcoin) Why gold is a better store of value than Bitcoin Peter shares his take on the current banking crisis The impact of higher Federal interest rates on banks Helpful tips to prepare for rising inflation And other topics… Connect with Peter: Twitter: https://twitter.com/PeterSchiff  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjuLiLHdFxYtFmWlbTGQRQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peterschiff/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeterSchiff/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@peterschiffofficial  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