The Greatness Machine

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Monique Rhodes, singer/songwriter and mindfulness meditation expert with The 10-minute Mind. She brings her unique insights, calm, cool demeanor, and infectiously positive outlook on the world to this discussion.  You'll learn the value of taking time to truly reevaluate what's serving you and what isn't) during this "slow-down." You'll discover how shifting our habits is vital to shifting our minds.  You'll also learn some team mediation practices you can implement for your organization. Join Darius and Monique for this fun, thoughtful, and inspiring discussion. Topics include: Taking time to reevaluate during the "slow-down” How to shift our habits in order to shift our minds Team meditation practices you can try And other topics… Sponsored By: Go to organifi.com/greatness and use code GREATNESS for 20% off your entire order. Right now LMNT is offering my listeners a free sample pack with any purchase, That’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a salty friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/GREATNESSMACHINE. Connect with Monique: Website: https://moniquerhodes.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquerhodesofficial/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniquerhodesofficial/  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 you handle tough situations in life?  Building mental strength is a critical aspect of achieving success and living a fulfilling life. It involves developing a mindset that allows you to overcome obstacles and setbacks, and maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity. It requires a strong sense of self-awareness, which involves understanding your strengths and weaknesses and being willing to take risks and step outside of your comfort zone. This can involve setting realistic goals, practicing self-reflection, and seeking feedback from others. Amy Morin, editor-in-chief of Verywell Mind, the biggest mental health website in the world, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about her new book, 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do. In this episode, Darius and Amy talk about the importance of building mental strength to help manage our thoughts and emotions. Amy explains the difference between knowing and doing, and why people often fear solitude and silence. Topics include: What changed Amy’s mind about becoming a doctor What motivated Amy to learn about building mental strength and toughness The challenges of knowing versus doing The benefits of having a pros-and-cons list Amy recalls writing 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do How to stop dwelling in the past and move on for good The three parts of mental strength Ways to stop expecting immediate results Why people fear the quiet and being alone Amy talks about The Verywell Mind Podcast And other topics Resources mentioned: The War of Art by: https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/  Connect with Amy: Website: https://amymorinlcsw.com/  Website: https://www.verywellmind.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymorinlcsw/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Things-Mentally-Strong-People-Workbook/dp/0063252236  Podcast: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-verywell-mind-podcast-5113058  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’s stopping you from turning your dreams into reality? Turning your dreams into reality is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences you can have in life. It is about taking that idea or goal that you've had in your head for so long and making it a tangible, real-life accomplishment. It is about taking the necessary steps to pursue the life you have always wanted. Making your dream a reality requires organization, flexibility, positivity, and support. By staying focused on your vision, being adaptable in the face of challenges, maintaining a positive attitude, and seeking out support when needed, you can turn your dream into a reality and reach your full potential. Giovanni Marsico, the founder of Archangel, a community of superhero entrepreneurs, leaders, and game changers, joins us on the Greatness Machine to share his personal story of living his dream and helping others achieve theirs.  In this episode, Darius and Giovanni talk about overcoming the challenges of chasing your dreams, combating imposter syndrome, and the benefits of stepping outside of your comfort zone. Giovanni also reveals the inspiration behind the “Dreamer” documentary, where they tell the story of entrepreneurs who never gave up on their dreams despite the hurdles.  Topics include: Giovanni recalls the beginning of Archangel Academy How starting Archangel helped Giovanni cope with depression Why he initially chose real estate instead of carrying out the idea of Archangel The challenges of curating an event Giovanni shares how he succeeded in inviting Gary Vaynerchuk to speak to his first big summit event Overcoming imposter syndrome  What inspired the “Dreamer” documentary  And other topics… Connect with Giovanni: Website: https://archangel.cc/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giovannimarsico/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giftedwithgio  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 hiking and cycling from the northernmost point in Alaska, all the way down the coast to the southernmost tip of Argentina. Now imagine doing it with no experience, little research and no real plan. It sounds crazy, but today's guests decided to embark on that very adventure and are anxious to share their experiences!  It's a story of incredible revelations, unforgettable encounters (like being six feet from a mother black bear and her cubs!) human connections and lessons learned. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Ville and Kristen Jokinen, a dynamic traveling duo who have made the conscious choice to travel. They've just completed a 20-month, 18,000-mile cycling odyssey from Alaska to Argentina - with zero experience.  You'll learn what sparked the decision to give up their traditional lifestyles and travel the world, often in conditions many of us would find impossible. You'll discover why Ville and Kristen believe that life should be lived without hesitation - it's too short not to chase adventure and discovery. You'll also learn why people with the least to give are often the most generous, while those with wealth tend to be more guarded, and what that says about our society. Join Darius, Ville and Kristen as they discuss their epic journey and the revelations they made along the way!  Topics include:  The many lessons Ville and Kristen learned on their epic cycling journey from Alaska to Argentina Why we should all strive to live without hesitation and embrace the brevity of life How people who have more tend to be more guarded, while those with nothing are often the most generous and giving people you'll meet And other topics… Sponsored By: Go to organifi.com/greatness and use code GREATNESS for 20% off your entire order. Right now LMNT is offering my listeners a free sample pack with any purchase. That’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a salty friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/GREATNESSMACHINE. Connect with Ville and Kristen: Website: https://www.welostthemap.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welostthemap/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@villekristenjokinen3463/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/welostthemap2   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 showing up? Showing up for yourself is crucial for personal growth, self-awareness, and well-being. It means prioritizing your needs, desires, and goals, and taking intentional actions toward them. When you show up for yourself, you acknowledge your worth, and you create a foundation of self-love and self-respect.  It also means taking responsibility for your life, and not relying on others to fulfill your needs or make you happy. By showing up for yourself, you cultivate a sense of empowerment and agency, and you become more resilient and adaptable to life's challenges. So make it a habit to show up for yourself every day, in big and small ways, and watch how your life transforms for the better. Today I am flying solo to talk about who I am trying to be in the world and what I do to become that version of myself. In this episode, I will share a few tips I learned on how to become the best version of yourself and why it matters to show up and take action. I will also discuss the things I learned from two books I recently read, Atomic Habits by James Clear and The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. Topics include: My biggest takeaway from reading Atomic Habits The three things I’m trying to be in the world The importance of showing up And other topics… Resources mentioned: Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Not-So-Obvious-Guaranteed-Transform/dp/0979019710  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 you reclaim your life after exiting a cult? Cults often prey on vulnerable individuals, offering them a sense of community, belonging, and purpose. They use tactics such as manipulation, mind control, and emotional abuse to keep their members in line, making it challenging for individuals to leave and regain their freedom. Escaping a cult can be a difficult and traumatizing experience, requiring immense courage and strength. One of the most challenging aspects of escaping a cult is the process of deprogramming. Members of a cult have been subjected to intense indoctrination, where their thoughts, beliefs, and behavior have been shaped by the organization's leaders. Sarah Edmondson, a Canadian actress, voice actor, and podcaster, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about her experience as a former member of NXIVM, a now-defunct multi-level marketing company. In this episode, Darius and Sarah dive deep into the effects of cult manipulation and how cults rewire the brain of their members. Now a cult recovery advocate, Sarah also shares her story of being a member of NXIVM, which she later exposed for their abusive practices.  Topics include: What drew Sarah to join the NXIVM group How Sarah found out about the disturbing activities within the group The factors that contribute to joining cults What it was like for Sarah working as an actor while being a member of the NXIVM Sarah talks about the HBO documentary series “The Vow” The story behind A Little Bit Culty podcast And other topics… Connect with Sarah: Website: https://www.sarahedmondson.com/  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-little-bit-culty/id1553334816  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Scarred-Story-Escaped-NXIVM-Memoir/dp/1452184267  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahedmondson/ 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

There are few things more demoralizing than pouring your heart and soul into a job (not to mention countless hours of dedicated work) only to have your employer let you go with barely a thank you for your hard work.  Today's guest has experienced this firsthand, but rather than allow it to stop her, she's used it to fuel her own massive success. In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Hala Taha, entrepreneur, CEO of YAP Media and LinkedIn's Podcasting Princess. Her path to success has been a long and challenging one, despite her relatively young age, and she's ready to share her insights on today's episode.  You'll learn about Hala's journey through the ups and downs of the entertainment industry, a difficult path that provided tremendous experience and eventually led her to the corporate world where more lessons awaited.  You'll discover some surprisingly effective habits and tactics used by successful leaders. You'll also learn how Hala's extensive experience inspired her to create her #1 rated Young and Profiting podcast and more recently, YAP Media, a full-service social media and podcast marketing agency for top podcasters, celebrities and CEOs. Join Darius and Hala and get inspired by her story, her determination and her insights!  Topics include: The process Hala used to become an "overnight success” Surprising habits and tactics of successful leaders The reasons why Hala decided to start the Young And Profiting podcast And other topics… Sponsored By: Go to organifi.com/greatness and use code GREATNESS for 20% off your entire order. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/darius and get on your way to being your best self. Connect with Hala: Website: https://youngandprofiting.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/htaha/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yapwithhala/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/yapwithhala  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 running on the hedonic treadmill? The hedonic treadmill refers to the phenomenon where people's expectations and desires for pleasure and happiness increase over time, but their actual level of happiness and satisfaction remains relatively constant. In other words, people constantly strive for more and more pleasure and happiness, but they never really reach a state of lasting satisfaction or contentment. Getting off the hedonic treadmill can be achieved by changing one's mindset and approach to life, focusing on things that provide deeper meaning and fulfillment rather than short-term pleasure. Today I am flying solo to talk about my personal struggles of being on the hedonic treadmill for so long and how that mindset has caused me dissatisfaction despite achieving some of the biggest milestones I have set for myself. In this episode, I will share some tips on how to avoid getting stuck on the hedonic treadmill, the benefits of building habits and rituals to achieve success, and the importance of celebrating achievements. Topics include: What is the hedonic treadmill and how does it affect your happiness Letting go of chronic dissatisfaction Things that hold back happiness Why setting daily goals helps you accomplish more The importance of building habits and rituals to achieve success And other topics… Resources mentioned: War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/  The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Not-So-Obvious-Guaranteed-Transform/dp/0979019710  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

Elevating your team to become a team of leaders is a crucial step in building a high-performance team. It involves empowering each team member to take ownership of their role, develop their skills, and contribute to the team's success. By creating a culture that values leadership at all levels, you can unlock the full potential of your team and achieve greater results. To build a team of leaders, it is essential to foster an environment that encourages open communication, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you're a team leader, manager, or business owner, building a team of leaders is a critical component of achieving long-term success. Robert Glazer, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Acceleration Partners, a global partner marketing agency, joins us once again on the Greatness Machine to give us a sneak peek into his newest book, titled, Elevate Your Team: Empower Your Team To Reach Their Full Potential and Build A Business That Builds Leaders. In this episode, Robert and I discuss the four areas of the “Capacity-Building” framework which are spiritual, intellectual, physical, and emotional capacities. We also dive deep into the challenge of having difficult conversations at work and how new managers often fail at handling such situations.  Topics include: Robert looks back at his decision to step back from his CEO position in 2019 The role and responsibilities of a CEO Robert explains the “Capacity-Building” framework and its four areas Why recruiting based on experience often is not the right option Handling difficult conversations at work Robert talks about his new book Elevate Your Team And other topics… Resources mentioned: The Motive by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.amazon.com/Motive-Leaders-Abdicate-Important-Responsibilities/dp/1119600456 Connect with Robert: Website: https://robertglazer.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glazer  Book: https://eytbook.com/  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/elevate-with-robert-glazer/id1454045560  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 Steve Sims. Steve is the badass founder and CEO of the luxury concierge service, Bluefish, bestselling author of Bluefishing: The Art of Making Things Happen, and a sought-after life coach. Also known as the “Wizard of Oz”, Steve shares his incredible life story and philosophy in today’s show.  We start this special show with Steve sharing his incredible backstory. Steve started off his career years back working as a doorman at a nightclub. And incredibly enough, he credits this experience to his uncanny ability to read people. “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with” ~ Jim Rohn A firm believer in this adage, Steve shares that he made a conscious effort to surround himself with rich people.  As he puts it, you get dividends if you surround yourself with rich people. Whereas, you get only excuses if you surround yourself with poor people. As a nightclub doorman, Steve also shares how he always strives to resolve conflicts in the most frictionless way possible. This has allowed him to cultivate stellar relationships that have withstood the test of time. So, how did Steve go from being a nightclub doorman to owning a luxury concierge service? Steve credits his blatant ignorance and stupidity which he calls his “superpower” for his success.  In this segment of the show, we discuss the importance of overcoming our fear of rejection which often inhibits us from going all out and realizing our full potential.  Topics include: How to resolve strife in the most frictionless way possible How “ignorance” and “stupidity” and can power you ahead  The value of surrounding yourself with like-minded and inspiring people  And other topics… Sponsored By: Go to organifi.com/greatness and use code GREATNESS for 20% off your entire order. Right now LMNT is offering my listeners a free sample pack with any purchase. That’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a salty friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/GREATNESSMACHINE. Connect with Steve Website: https://www.stevedsims.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedsims  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevedsims/  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