

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

May 12, 2025 • 1h 10min
TGM Classic | Robert Brooker | Beyond Startups: The 20-Year Odyssey of Business Acquisition
What wisdom lies in an entrepreneur’s journey from startups to strategic business acquisitions?
Robert Brooker has traversed a multifaceted career path marked by entrepreneurship, strategic business acquisitions, and a profound commitment to a fulfilling life. Starting with odd jobs worldwide, he ventured into real estate and later transitioned to acquiring businesses.
Robert’s impact extends beyond business by serving on BetterInvesting’s board and held roles at esteemed institutions. Now, he focuses on diverse investments, emphasizing family and personal fulfillment.
In this episode, Robert joins Darius for yet another episode of The Greatness Machine to talk about his latest book, Albert Kner: Icon, Legend. He also discusses crucial insights for entrepreneurs and investors, emphasizing the significance of aligning business ideas with current market conditions and delves into the value of peer groups within these communities. A pivotal aspect of the discussion revolves around Robert’s personal journey, specifically the transition from being a business owner to dedicating his focus to full-time investing.
Topics include:
The importance of aligning business ideas with the current market conditions
The value of peer groups in the entrepreneurial and investing communities
The need to explore opportunities and hustle in a competitive market
Robert shares an important criteria for business acquisition
Robert discusses two models for managing acquired businesses
The responsibility of entrepreneurs to ensure the business’s viability
Robert talks about the transition from being a business owner to full-time investing
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness.
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine.
ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Robert:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbrooker/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Albert-Kner-Artist-Discovering-Industrial/dp/9631369234
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.
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May 9, 2025 • 15min
Darius Classic | Bigger Conversations = Bigger Success
Do you ever think about how the conversations you engage in affect the trajectory of your life?
Each interaction leaves an indelible mark on our journey, shaping our perspectives, decisions, and ultimately, our trajectory. We shape our paths towards personal and professional fulfillment in a profound way by the quality and content of our dialogues, whether it is sharing insights with colleagues, seeking guidance from mentors, or sharing heartfelt conversations with loved ones.
Today, I am flying solo to navigate the intricate web of conversations, unveiling their significance in shaping our destinies. I will also highlight the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and self-awareness in enriching conversation quality and charting a course toward desired objectives.
This episode of The Greatness Machine will encourage the listeners to reflect on their own interactions, urging them to assess the environments they inhabit, the discussions they participate in, and the value they contribute.
Topics include:
The direct correlation between the quality of conversations and the individuals involved with our success and progress
The importance of ongoing learning and adaptability in enhancing conversation quality and ensuring our contributions remain meaningful
The significance of establishing credibility and earning invitations to consequential discussions by enriching conversations with valuable insights
Self-awareness and reflection as essential practices for assessing our current position and aligning our aspirations
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness.
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine.
ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
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
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 7, 2025 • 1h 4min
355 | Dr. Geoff Smart | Why Most Hiring Practices Fail–and What Actually Works
How do you really know if someone is the right fit for your team—or your company’s future? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Dr. Geoff Smart, founder of GH Smart and author of the bestselling book Who, to break down what separates successful hiring from costly mistakes. Geoff reveals the power of evidence-based assessments, why psych tests often fall short, and how intense curiosity—not stress—is the key to unlocking a candidate's true potential.
From helping Fortune 500 companies select CEOs to coaching emerging leaders, Geoff shares stories, strategies, and myths about the hiring process—plus, why the "sell me this pen" test is just bad business.
In this episode, Darius and Geoff will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction to Geoff Smart and His Journey
(02:55) The Importance of Hiring and Core Values
(06:08) Geoff's Origin Story and Founding GH Smart
(09:00) Cultural Fit and Hiring Process
(11:55) The Role of Core Values in Business
(14:52) Firing with Respect and Responsibility
(18:05) A Players vs. B Players in Hiring
(20:54) Adapting to Different Stages of Business Growth
(30:05) Identifying A-Players for Growth
(34:02) The Importance of Leadership in Organizations
(40:25) Effective Interview Techniques
(43:00) Assessing CEOs and Leadership Roles
(48:44) Onboarding and Post-Hiring Strategies
(55:20) Overcoming Fear of Failure
Dr. Geoff Smart is the chairman and founder of ghSMART, a leadership advisory firm that helps CEOs, entrepreneurs, and public-sector leaders build high-performing teams. Founded in 1995, ghSMART is recognized for its rigorous hiring methods, impactful leadership development, and a culture of excellence. The firm has topped Glassdoor and Vault rankings and published several bestselling books, including “Who: The A Method for Hiring”. Geoff holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and was mentored by management legend Peter Drucker. Beyond business, he’s committed to public service and leadership development through programs like the Colorado Governors Fellowship and his work with CiviCo.
Sponsored by:
Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness.
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine.
ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Geoff:
Website: https://geoffsmart.com/
Website: https://ghsmart.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drgeoffsmart/
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

May 5, 2025 • 1h 1min
TGM Classic | Gay Hendricks | Finding Your Genius Zone: Embracing Your Genius Zone Daily Transformation
Ever wondered how to unleash your inner genius and transform your life?
This innate desire to tap into our fullest potential often leads us on a journey of self-discovery, where we explore the depths of our abilities and aspirations.
Renowned psychologist and personal development guru Gay Hendricks has dedicated much of his work to addressing precisely this question. Through his insightful teachings and the concept of the “Zone of Genius,” he guides individuals on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. He believes that within each person lies a unique set of talents, passions, and abilities.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Gay joins Darius to talk about his enlightening journey, reminiscing an “out of Hendricks” moment triggered by an unexpected fall on ice. Gay candidly discusses his personal struggles with obesity, emphasizing the profound impact of conscious food choices on one’s transformation.
The conversation unravels the intricacies of identifying and transforming limiting beliefs, highlighting the pivotal role of openness to learning. Gay also offers insights into cultivating genius and finding your unique “genius zone,” a place where passion and contribution intersect.
Topics include:
Gay looks back experiencing “out of Hendricks” moment after a fall on ice
Gay opens up about his personal struggles with obesity
The importance of choosing actions that align with a deeper sense of consciousness
Gay underlines the transformative power of conscious food choices
Family influence on body image and shame
Gay shares a method of replacing shame with positive affirmations
Family influence and overcoming past conditions
Identifying and transforming limiting beliefs
The significance of being open to learning
Cultivating genius and finding your “genius zone”
Gay details his upcoming book Your Big Leap Year
And other topics…
Sponsored by:
Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness.
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine.
ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Gay:
Website: https://hendricks.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gay-hendricks-195a90
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hendricks.gay/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gayhendricks/
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

May 2, 2025 • 23min
354 | Top 4 Things I Learned During My 46th Year On Earth
Life doesn’t always shout its lessons—sometimes it whispers them in moments you almost miss. In this special solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh unpacks four hard-earned lessons from a year marked by deep personal transformation. Stepping away from the polished highlight reel, he explores the quieter, in-between moments where lasting growth often begins.
Through honest reflection and lived experience, Darius dives into themes of clarity, surrender, and identity—offering a raw look at what it means to truly do the inner work. This episode invites you to pause, reflect, and consider what life might be asking of you right now.
In this episode, Darius will discuss:
(00:00) Reflections on a Profound Year
(04:54) Embracing Life's Shortness and Purpose
(10:00) Trusting Yourself to Create Desired Outcomes
(12:53) Ego vs. Soul: Finding True Purpose
(16:51) Unapologetically Being Yourself
Sponsored by:
Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness.
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine.
ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
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

Apr 30, 2025 • 1h 14min
353 | Paul Chek | Reimagining the Future of Healing and Consciousness
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and disconnected from nature, this episode offers a much-needed perspective on the urgent need for spiritual awakening and holistic healing.
In this enlightening episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with renowned holistic health expert and spiritual teacher Paul Chek to explore the deep intersection of technology, consciousness, and the human spirit. Paul opens up about the transformative role of artificial intelligence, plant medicine, and the forgotten wisdom of nature in today’s world.
In this episode, Darius and Paul will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction to Paul Chek and His Work
(02:10) Paul Chek's Origin Story
(18:18) The Four Doctors of Health
(27:39) Practical Health Principles for Everyone
(32:55) Aligning Exercise with Your Dreams
(36:01) The Four Doctors and Decision Making
(39:04) The Renaissance of Plant Medicine
(44:52) Plant Medicine vs. Artificial Intelligence
(57:12) Taking Ownership of Your Life
Paul Chek is a world-renowned expert in corrective and high-performance exercise kinesiology, stress management, and holistic wellness. With over 40 years of experience, Paul has transformed countless lives through his integrated, root-cause approach to health and performance. He is the founder of the CHEK Institute, creator of Spirit Gym, and host of the Spirit Gym with Paul Chek podcast. A prolific author and educator, Paul continues to shape the future of integrative lifestyle management worldwide.
Sponsored by:
Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness.
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Paul:
Website: https://chekinstitute.com/
Website: https://paulchek.com/
Website: https://www.myspiritgym.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2Y7Tgj2RR6Z5zxZZYYWoKg
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

Apr 28, 2025 • 1h 7min
352 | Tamar Hermes | The Millionaire’s Mentality: A Professional Woman’s Guide to Building Wealth Through Real Estate
What if building wealth wasn’t just about numbers, but about knowing yourself, trusting your gut, and playing the long game with intention?
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Tamar Hermes—wealth coach, real estate maven, and founder of Wealth Building Concierge—for a masterclass in intuitive investing. With a blend of grounded wisdom and sharp strategy, Tamar unpacks how she measures risk not by rigid formulas, but by asking one bold question: “How much can I lose without being destitute?” From there, she takes us on a journey through her investing mindset, why she breaks free from the traditional “net worth percentage” playbook, and how real estate became her favorite tool for building lasting, generational wealth.
Book a 30-minute call with Tamar: https://calendly.com/tamar-hermes/30min.
In this episode, Darius and Tamar will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction
(02:28) Tamar's Origin Story and Early Experiences with Money
(06:29) The Impact of Family Background on Money Mindset
(09:33) Fear and Trust in Money Management
(13:03) Transitioning from Scarcity to Abundance Mindset
(15:50) The Skills of Making and Keeping Money
(20:29) Learning from Investment Mistakes
(23:40) Money as Energy and Its Flow
(28:46) Upcoming Mentorship Program for Women
(29:13) Empowering Women in Wealth Management
(31:06) Personal Investment Journeys and Risk Tolerance
(33:45) Understanding Investment Personalities
(37:43) Investment Strategies and Risk Management
(41:01) Capital Allocation: The Single, Double, Triple Approach
(46:18) Navigating Current Economic Challenges
(52:51) Transitioning from Employee to Entrepreneur
(57:06) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness
Tamar Hermes is the founder of Women Growing Wealth, a dynamic platform empowering high-achieving women to invest with confidence, grow real wealth, and build thriving portfolios—strategically and in community. With over 25 years of experience and an 8-figure personal portfolio, Tamar specializes in passive investing, real estate scaling, and smart tax strategies that yield long-term security and 10%+ annual returns. She's the bestselling author of "The Millionaire's Mentality" and the driving force behind the Investor Mastermind, where hundreds of women have transformed their financial lives. Tamar’s mission? To help women stop playing small and start building wealth with clarity, courage, and community.
Sponsored by:
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.
Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Tamar:
Website: https://womengrowingwealth.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamar-hermes-53b9114a
Email: tamar@womengrowingwealth.com
Book: https://tamarbook.com/
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

Apr 25, 2025 • 27min
351 | How I Became a Happy Person (Part 2)
What does true happiness look like when you're at the top of your game?
In this powerful solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh picks up where he left off in Part 1, sharing the next chapter of his journey to becoming a happier person. From a transformative week in Oaxaca, Mexico, to discovering “Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself” by Dr. Joe Dispenza, Darius dives into how he began rewiring his emotional state, embracing joy, presence, and gratitude—and how meditation helped him break free from fear. Don’t miss this deeply personal and inspiring continuation.
Catch Part 1 here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/349-how-i-became-a-happy-person-part-1/id1555334180?i=1000703966255
In this episode, Darius will discuss:
(00:00) Journey to Happiness: A Personal Transformation
(03:01) The Power of Presence and Gratitude
(05:51) Discovering New Perspectives: The Influence of Dr. Joe Dispenza
(09:13) Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself
(12:03) Surrendering to Higher Intelligence
(14:46) The Emotional Release and Its Impact
(18:02) Reevaluating Control and Life Choices
Sponsored by:
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.
Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
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

Apr 23, 2025 • 1h 13min
350 | Bo Eason | Building a Winning Mindset: Lessons from the NFL and Beyond
Ever wonder what separates true champions from the rest? It's not just talent — it's how they face adversity head-on.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with former NFL player, acclaimed speaker, and personal development coach Bo Eason to dive deep into the mindset required to achieve greatness. Bo shares powerful insights on why struggle is not just inevitable but essential for growth. From the lessons he learned on the football field to his experiences as a performer and coach, Bo emphasizes the importance of resilience and the mindset shift that separates champions from the rest.
In this episode, Darius and Bo will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction and Background
(04:01) Bo Eason's Origin Story
(10:30) The Power of Belief and Sacrifice
(18:56) The Journey to the NFL
(25:30) Transitioning from NFL to Theater
(32:29) From NFL to Theater: A New Journey
(34:55) Mastery Equals Mastery: The Power of Skill Transfer
(40:31) The Importance of Patience in Mastery
(44:28) Resilience Through Rejection: The Path to Greatness
(51:01) The Value of Hard Work Over Winning
(56:06) Embracing Struggle: The Key to Success
(01:02:40) Eliminating Barriers: The Path to Greatness
Bo Eason, a former NFL player for the Houston Oilers and San Francisco 49ers, transitioned from the football field to the stage with his acclaimed one-man play Runt of the Litter, which premiered on Broadway and earned praise from The New York Times. Now a sought-after speaker and trainer, Bo coaches top athletes, executives, and entrepreneurs on powerful communication and leadership, working with clients like Morgan Stanley, Mass Mutual, and Merrill Lynch.
Sponsored by:
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.
NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.
Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Connect with Bo:
Website: https://boeason.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boeasonofficial/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boeason21/
Text “Guide” and send to (323)-310-5504
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

Apr 21, 2025 • 1h
TGM Classic | CL Turner | Negotiating Beyond the Numbers: The Personal Touch in Private Equity
Ever wondered how million-dollar deals happen behind closed doors?
CL Turner, III, Founder and Managing Partner of Crescendo Capital Partners, underlines the critical role of building personal connections with founder-owner operators in private equity transactions, making it clear that it is more than just business; it is personal. He explains how the private equity industry goes beyond simply closing deals and focuses on building personal relationships.
Drawing from his own life experiences and the firm’s winning formula, CL reveals their unique strategy at Crescendo Capital Partners of convincing business owners to sell below market rates, offering them a second bite at the apple.
In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and CL talk about the dynamic world of private equity and the art of thriving in it, highlighting the significance of hard work and determination in becoming a successful figure in the industry. The interview takes an unexpected turn as CL shares his passion for creating music and the joy he finds in serendipitous moments.
Topics include:
What inspired CL to start Crescendo Capital Partners
CL talks about his passion for music and his plans to release songs every year
Transitioning from an intermediary to a principal in the investment world
Why it is important to assess the malleability of founder-operators
CL shares three key elements to succeed in private equity
And other topics…
Connect with CL:
Website: https://crescendocap.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-l-turner-iii-07915a2
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cl.turneriii/
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
Sponsored by:
Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!
Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.
NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.
Shipstation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.
Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.
Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


