

The Greatness Machine
Darius Mirshahzadeh | YAP Media
The Greatness Machine is on a Quest to Maximize the Human Experience!Join Award Winning CEO and Author, Darius Mirshahzadeh (pron. Mer-shaw-za-day), as he interviews some of the greatest minds in the world―turning their wisdom and experience into learnings and advice you can use in your life so that you can level up and create greatness. Join Darius as he goes deep with guests like: Moby, Seth Godin, Gabby Reece, Amanda Knox, UFC Ring Announcer Bruce Buffer, Former FBI Negotiator Chris Voss, BJ Fogg, Former Spy and CIA Agent Andrew Bustamante, 1-800-Got-Junk CEO Brian Scudamore, NHL Hall of Famer Chris Pronger, and so many more!Our subject matter ranges from entrepreneurial and pro athlete underdog stories, world-class leadership development, and performance development, to wealth creation and more! If you are a learner who wants to level up in your life and learn from experts who have been there and done that, hit the subscribe button.The Greatness Machine is your ticket to create Greatness in your life!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 13, 2025 • 58min
373 | Nathanael Chawkin (Part 1) | Awakened Leadership: Doing Deep Work
What if the real work of leadership wasn’t about climbing higher, but going deeper into the soul, the body, and the sacred responsibility of showing up fully alive?
In this soul-stirring conversation on The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Nathanael Chawkin for a deep dive into the sacred masculine, conscious leadership, and the power of integration. From personal initiations through plant medicine to the spiritual responsibility of leading in the modern world, this episode explores what it means to live a wholehearted, embodied life. Nathanael shares insights from his work guiding men through transformational rites of passage, and challenges the performative narratives of power and success. They also reflect on the rise of conscious capitalism, the illusion of enlightenment, and the true crucibles of growth—like marriage, fatherhood, and leadership itself.
In this episode, Darius and Nathanael will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction and Background
(02:57) The Journey of Fatherhood
(05:30) Exploring Masculinity and Leadership
(08:34) The Role of Plant Medicine in Personal Growth
(11:29) Integration and Spiritual Development
(14:11) Personal Experiences with Plant Medicine
(24:57) Exploring Plant Medicines and Spiritual Experiences
(30:13) The Shift from Materialism to Conscious Leadership
(36:56) Conscious Capitalism and the Role of Guardianship
(42:46) Integrating Spirituality and Material Life
(50:23) The Pathways of Development in Leadership
Nathanael Chawkin is a modern mystic, master coach, and martial arts instructor with over 15 years of experience guiding executives and leaders through transformational growth. He is the founder of Guardian Training, a men’s work methodology that blends MMA, conflict resolution, and depth psychology to awaken the sacred masculine. In 2021, he launched Awakening Leadership, a plant medicine journey for conscious leaders, and in 2025, co-founded Temple of The Living Truth with his life partner Elizabeth—a priestess of the sacred feminine. Together, they are building a decentralized spiritual community rooted in direct mystical experience. Featured in Entrepreneur and The Financial Times, Nathanael brings a uniquely embodied and integrative lens to leadership, spirituality, and human potential.
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.
[DISCLAIMER:
*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months. Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]
Connect with Nathanael:
Website: https://awakeningleadership.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nchawkin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanael.chawkin/
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 3min
TGM Classic | Guy Kawasaki | Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference
What sets remarkable individuals apart from the rest?
Dive into the heart of this question with Guy Kawasaki, a trailblazer in the realms of entrepreneurship and innovation, as he talks about his newest book Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference.
Combining his 40 years of experience with the wisdom from 200 noteworthy individuals, including luminaries like Jane Goodall and Steve Wozniak, Guy revealed the key qualities that set remarkable individuals apart from the crowd. Through anecdotes and reflections, he highlights the importance of growth, resilience, leadership, and graciousness as foundational elements for achieving remarkable success.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Guy to talk about his experiences at Apple during the Steve Jobs era, recounting the demanding yet transformative nature of working alongside the visionary leader. The conversation transitions to the creative process and grit required to succeed in entrepreneurship, drawing parallels between the processes of writing and entrepreneurship as they relate to endurance and refinement. This episode also underscores the importance of empowering others and making a difference as the essence of greatness, encapsulating the core message of Guy’s newest book Think Remarkable.
Topics include:
Guy reveals what motivated him to pursue a life of wealth and success
Envy as a positive force to achieve greatness and make a difference
Three key traits of remarkable people: growth, grit, grace
The benefits of using success to empower others and make a positive impact
Finding purpose and fulfillment in work
The influence of tough teachers and bosses on one’s personal growth and success
Guy shares insights into the writing process of Think Remarkable
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.
[DISCLAIMER:
*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months. Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]
Connect with Guy:
Website: https://guykawasaki.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guykawasaki
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GuyKawasaki
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guykawasaki/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Remarkable-Paths-Transform-Difference/dp/139424522X
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 8, 2025 • 16min
Darius Classic | The 10-Second Rule
Are you living in the present, or are you buried in the past and the future?
It is easy to lose sight of the present as we dwell on past mistakes or dream of future achievements. But what if the key to fulfillment lies in mastering each moment as it comes?
Today, I am flying solo to talk about a concept I call the 10-second rule–a simple yet powerful approach to living life in real-time. We will explore how embracing this idea can help you stop worrying about the past or obsessing over the future, allowing you to enjoy and grow in the now.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will share how focusing on life in 10-second intervals has shifted my perspective, increased my presence, and even helped me handle relationships and conflicts more gracefully. I will also talk about the importance of making the most of every moment and finding pride in the journey and not just the destination.
Topics include:
The 10-second rule and its role for living in the moment
The downside of constantly dwelling on the past
The importance of dreaming without attachment to outcomes
Finding pride in the process, not just the results
Letting go of ego to nurture stronger relationships
How focusing on the present fosters personal growth
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.
[DISCLAIMER:
*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months. Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 4min
TGM Classic | Pamela Cantor, M.D. | Realizing Your Fullest Potential
Do you ever pause to consider the extraordinary capacity that lies within you to transcend adversity and unlock your fullest potential?
Realizing your human potential is a profound journey of self-discovery and growth, transcending mere achievement to encompass the fullest expression of who you are. It is fueled by passion, determination, and a belief in your abilities, and involves constant learning, growth, and self-improvement.
Dr. Pamela Cantor, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, author, and thought leader on human potential, sheds light on this transformative journey, highlighting the importance of human connection, trusting relationships and the brain’s capacity to rewire in unlocking human potential. Although challenges and setbacks can occur, Pam emphasizes that they can also serve as opportunities for growth and learning, which can propel us toward our fullest potential.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Pam to delve deep into the essence of self-actualization and offer valuable guidance for unlocking the boundless possibilities that lie within each of us. During the discussion, Pam will also share insights from her own experiences and professional expertise, shedding light on how challenges can serve as opportunities for growth and learning.
Topics include:
Tough moments as sources of strengths and resilience
Dr. Cantor reflects on the challenges of motherhood and parenting
The biological basis of the potential for growth and development in each individual
The influence of experiences, relationships, and environments in shaping one’s potential - epigenetics.
The impact of childhood trauma on personal development. Trauma is not destiny.
Building trust and connection as a therapist, parent or adult in a child’s lifeThe significance of listening to children and creating an environment of trust
Efforts to build a movement across the country to harness the potential in each person
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.
[DISCLAIMER:
*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months. Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]
Connect with Pam:
Website: https://www.pamelacantormd.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-cantor-md
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drpamelacantor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelacantormd
Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/all-kids-thriving
Book: https://www.cambridge.org/core/elements/abs/wholechild-development-learning-and-thriving/67237E6CA30DAD7D1707057EEFD3E8D0
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 2min
TGM Classic | Rebecca Homkes | Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times
What can businesses do to not just survive, but thrive in today’s volatile market?
Today’s market is highly volatile, and the winning formula is having not just staying afloat but rather growing in uncertain times. Businesses can achieve this by adopting a proactive and adaptable mindset. Rather than seeking stability in an inherently unpredictable environment, companies must embrace change as a constant and prepare to be able to respond quickly to changing market conditions.
Rebecca Homkes, a high-growth strategy specialist, sheds light on some basic principles and actionable steps to help in navigating the unpredictable landscape of modern markets. Drawing from her extensive experience in strategy consulting, she emphasizes the importance of proactive adaptation for businesses not just to survive but to thrive. Through her newest book, Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times, advocates for a shift from rigid planning to dynamic preparation, where leaders focus on aligning beliefs, testing assumptions, and making strategic choices based on evolving circumstances.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Rebecca to delve into strategies for thriving in today’s volatile market, addressing common misconceptions about uncertainty and offering practical advice for businesses to identify their unique strengths and leverage them to capitalize on emerging opportunities while mitigating risks.
Topics include:
What inspired Rebecca to start her strategy journey
The importance of having an alignment on performance and growth goals
Why it matters for a company to have a clear vision and direction
Having a balance between setting aspirational targets and providing a realistic roadmap
Aligning agility with a clear strategic direction
Rebecca talks about her new book Survive, Reset, Thrive
What it takes for a business to survive through market shocks
The benefits of continuous learning and seeking to improve and adapt
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.
[DISCLAIMER:
*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months. Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]
Connect with Rebecca:
Website: https://www.surviveresetthrive.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Reset-Thrive-Implementing-High-Growth/dp/1398607886
LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-homkes
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rebeccahomkes/
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 1, 2025 • 24min
372 | Comparing Your Life Against the Bottom Billion in the World
In this special solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh opens up about a powerful, soul-stirring experience during his sabbatical in Tanzania. Broadcasting from Arusha, he reflects on his family’s two-week volunteer mission in the remote village of Ipalamwa with Global Volunteers.
From building chicken coops and earth boxes to visiting schools and pregnant mothers in extreme poverty, Darius shares what it was like to witness a level of hardship that most in the Western world will never encounter. He speaks candidly about guilt, gratitude, and the dangerous trap of constantly comparing ourselves to the top 1%.
Website: https://globalvolunteers.org/
In this episode, Darius will discuss:
(00:00) Journey of Transformation: A Personal Experience
(02:43) Lessons from Poverty: A Wake-Up Call
(05:52) Volunteering in Tanzania: A Family Experience
(08:23) The Reality of Rural Education
(11:06) Comparative Reflection: Wealth and Poverty
(13:48) Call to Action: Making a Difference
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness.
[DISCLAIMER:
*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months. Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 30, 2025 • 59min
371 | Mohnish Pabrai | The Surprising Truth About Doing Less and Achieving More
What if the secret to success isn’t doing more, but focusing on less?
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with legendary investor and entrepreneur Mohnish Pabrai to talk about building businesses, spotting hidden opportunities, and why focus is the ultimate superpower. From failed startups to scaling a $20M company, Mohnish shares how he discovered his edge, not by doing it all, but by doing what he does best. He unpacks the concept of “offering gaps,” the value of deep listening, and how modeling Warren Buffett’s early partnership strategy led him to launch Pabrai Investment Funds and never look back.
In this episode, Darius and Mohnish will discuss:
How to spot and capitalize on "offering gaps" in the market
Why your first (or second) idea may not work—and why that’s okay
The importance of focus and why you can't optimize for two variables
What it really means to build something that fits your strengths and interests
Why Mohnish left a thriving company to pursue value investing full-time
How he turned $1M into $13M in five years—by doing what he loves
Mohnish Pabrai is the Managing Partner of Pabrai Investment Funds, modeled after the original Buffett Partnerships. Since its inception in 1999, the fund has delivered a 13.5% annualized return—significantly outperforming the S&P 500. Before launching the fund, Pabrai founded and grew TransTech, Inc. into a $20 million IT firm before selling it in 2000. He is the author of two popular books on value investing—The Dhandho Investor and Mosaic—and has been featured in Forbes, Barron’s, and The Wall Street Journal. Pabrai is also the founder of The Dakshana Foundation, a nonprofit focused on poverty alleviation through education in India.
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Mohnish:
Website: http://www.chaiwithpabrai.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohnish-pabrai
Twitter: https://x.com/mohnishpabrai/
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 28, 2025 • 55min
TGM Classic | Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi | COO of Pepsi and Nike President of Retail Tell Us How to Succeed
How do successful people navigate their careers, overcome barriers, and strategically position themselves for success?
It is often challenging to navigate the complexities of professional growth when embarking on a successful career path. From shifting industry landscapes to personal and social expectations, professionals face numerous challenges and success in careers is largely determined by how one strategically positions themselves.
Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi, through their book Career Forward: Strategies from Women Who’ve Made It, provide strategic insights to define and achieve career aspirations. Aimed at millennials facing pivotal career decisions, this book highlights the importance of taking calculated risks early in a career to achieve outsized returns.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Grace and Christiana to discuss strategies for crafting a successful career, embracing resilience, and strategically navigating the ever-changing landscape of professional life. They also talk about Grace and Christiana’s upcoming book, Career Forward, set to launch on February 20, 2024.
Topics include:
The importance of leveraging network in finding a writing partner
Christiana highlights the value of having a clear direction or “cardinal direction”
Building professional networks and how it can be beneficial
Path of least resistance vs. intentionality
The concept of building professional equity by consistently demonstrating excellence
The idea of having a “growth stock mentality”
The concept of “operating at the top of your license”
Grace and Christiana talk about the audience for their book Career Forward
The idea of taking asymmetric risks in one’s career
Understanding and advocating for one’s worth in the professional realm
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Grace:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/39999441.Grace_Puma
Connect with Christiana:
Website: https://www.lovejoyadvisors.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/csshi
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 25, 2025 • 19min
Darius Classic | How to Pick a Wealth Manager
Is your financial advisor helping you build wealth or just selling you products?
Today, I am flying solo to dive deep into the crucial process of selecting the right financial advisor, sharing valuable insights from my own experiences. Whether you are an entrepreneur preparing for a business exit or an individual with a growing nest egg, finding the right financial partner is key to securing your financial future.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will break down the three main types of financial advisors–wire houses, independent RIAs (Registered Investment Advisors), and insurance companies–detailing the pros and cons of each. I will also explain why it is essential to interview multiple advisors, understand how fees work, and ask the right questions about the firm’s planning capabilities, alt investment opportunities, and who you will really be dealing with on a day-to-day basis.
Topics include:
Interviewing multiple advisors to find the best fit for your unique needs
Working with advisors that offer comprehensive, in-house services
The advantages of working with a lead (G1) advisor compared to a junior (G2) advisor
Choosing a planning-centric firm over one focused solely on investments
The importance of patience and avoiding hasty decisions during market dips
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 9min
370 | Scott Donnell | The Hidden Cost of Hustle Culture and How to Build a Family That Lasts
What if the hustle isn’t the way forward, but the thing holding you back?
In this powerful episode of The Greatness Machine, Scott Donnell, founder of Fig & Eagle, shares his transformation from a high-achieving, hustle-driven entrepreneur to a fully surrendered husband, father, and leader. He and Darius unpack the deeper meaning of faith, family, and legacy, exploring what happens when you stop chasing success and start living with intention. Scott opens up about breaking free from the grip of “mammon”—money, status, and performance—and how that shift has changed everything. This conversation is a call to rethink what truly matters and how we lead the people who matter most.
In this episode, Darius and Scott will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction to Scott Donnell
(02:54) The Importance of Family Time
(05:41) Defining Legacy Beyond Wealth
(08:47) The Role of Heritage in Family Success
(11:26) Understanding the Concept of Legacy
(14:12) Building Strong Family Connections
(17:28) The Impact of Overachieving on Family Dynamics
(20:19) Healing Childhood Wounds and Their Effects
(23:13) Spiritual Insights on Wealth and Control
(30:44) The Power of Surrender
(33:09) Living as a Steward
(37:38) Transformative Experiences of Surrender
(43:22) Raising Families with Purpose
(48:56) Prioritizing Life and Work
(54:07) The Legacy We Leave Behind
Scott Donnell is a serial entrepreneur and passionate advocate for youth development. He’s the founder of Apex Leadership Co, Hapbee Technologies, and the GravyStack™ banking app, tools that have empowered over 6 million kids nationwide with leadership, fitness, and financial skills. Based in Phoenix with his wife Amy and their four “value creators,” Scott is also the co-author of “Value Creation Kid” and co-host of the Smart Money Parenting podcast.
Sponsored by:
Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.
IDEO U: Enroll today and get 15% off sitewide at ideou.com/greatness.
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Scott:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnell-scott
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imscottdonnell/
Twitter: https://x.com/imscottdonnell
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
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


