The Greatness Machine

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 For ad inquiries, please reach out to: Network+TGM@yapmedia.com

  1. TGM Classic | AJ Jacobs | The Year of Living Constitutionally: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Constitution's Original Meaning

    -1 J

    TGM Classic | AJ Jacobs | The Year of Living Constitutionally: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Constitution's Original Meaning

    What if you could spend an entire year living as if your actions could change the world? How would that shape your perspective on life, purpose, and the people around you? It is easy to feel like we are too small to make a real difference, but sometimes it just takes one person with the right mindset to start a ripple effect. When we shift our focus to living with intention and connecting deeply with the people around us, even the smallest actions can lead to something bigger. AJ Jacobs, bestselling author, journalist, and master of personal experiments, joins us to share stories from his fascinating life experiments. Known for his books “The Year of Living Biblically” and “The Year of Living Constitutionally,” AJ dives into experiments that challenge his worldview and reveal how gratitude, curiosity, and small acts of kindness can make a profound impact–not just on our own lives, but on the world at large. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, AJ Jacobs joins Darius to talk about his fascinating journey exploring the Bible for his book “The Year of Living Biblically.” AJ emphasizes the importance of thorough research, collaboration, and fully immersing oneself in a belief system to truly understand it. He reflects on how cherry-picking information can lead to a skewed perspective and discusses the power of gratitude in shifting our mindset. AJ also shares insights from his “Year of Living Constitutionally” and the lessons he learned from both projects, highlighting how they transformed his thinking and approach to life. Topics include: AJ reflects on exploring the Bible for his book The Year of Living Biblically The importance of research and collaboration in bookwriting process The need for immersion in understanding beliefs and systems The dangers of cherry-picking information to support one’s argument How gratitude can counteract negative bias and enhance one's perspective on life The lessons AJ learned during his “Year of Living Constitutionally” And other topics… Connect with AJ: Website: https://ajjacobs.com/ Substack: https://substack.com/@experimentalliving  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajjacobsinc/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ajjacobs/  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-puzzler-with-a-j-jacobs/id1709071922  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

    1 h 2 min
  2. Darius Classic | The Best Partner Scorecard - How to Evaluate Your Business Partnerships to WIN

    -4 J

    Darius Classic | The Best Partner Scorecard - How to Evaluate Your Business Partnerships to WIN

    What makes a business partnership work, and what quietly tears it apart? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into the hidden dynamics that can build or break partnerships. He explains that success isn’t just about shared goals or profits but about true alignment. Through the idea of “scorecards,” Darius shows how partners can unknowingly measure success in completely different ways. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial experiences, he highlights why clarity, transparency, and shared values are key, and how defining a common scorecard can keep partnerships strong and thriving. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Scaling a Business (02:56) The Importance of Choosing the Right Partners (06:11) Characteristics of Great Business Partners (11:56) Generosity in Partnerships (14:48) Staying in Your Swim Lane (19:06) Understanding Give and Take in Partnerships (22:49) Seeking Consensus in Decision Making 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

    33 min
  3. Darius Classic | What Do You Want Out of Life (Part 2)

    17 AVR.

    Darius Classic | What Do You Want Out of Life (Part 2)

    What do you really want from life and how do you define the criteria for your next big move? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius takes us deeper into his journey of clarity and alignment, sharing how he’s mapping out the values and principles that guide his next chapter. From choosing freedom and connection over energy-draining relationships, to defining what kind of businesses he wants to invest in, Darius walks us through the process of creating a personal criteria map for meaningful success. You’ll hear his reflections on purpose-driven entrepreneurship, leveraging strengths, and why working with heart-centered people matters more than chasing profits. If you’ve ever wondered how to align your professional path with your deepest values, this episode is for you. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Self-Reflection (00:58) Defining Life Goals and Values (03:23) Exploring Themes of Happiness and Love (05:48) The Importance of Fun and Adventure (09:13) Understanding Accomplishment and Freedom (11:46) The Quest for Sovereignty and Financial Freedom (14:38) Building Meaningful Connections (16:01) Strategizing for Future Projects (25:27) Conclusion and Call to Action 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

    31 min
  4. 421 | How to Get the Universe to Conspire to Make Your Dreams Come True

    10 AVR.

    421 | How to Get the Universe to Conspire to Make Your Dreams Come True

    What if the thing standing between you and everything you want is you? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh returns after a break to share a raw and deeply personal reflection on alignment, self-honesty, and what it truly takes for life to conspire in your favor. Drawing inspiration from “The Alchemist” and “The Surrender Experiment,” Darius reveals a powerful truth. It is not enough to want something. You have to be fully aligned with why you want it. From his early entrepreneurial grind to recent breakthroughs, he opens up about how ego, self-deception, and hidden motives kept him stuck in frustrating cycles, even while achieving outward success. After years of deep inner work, Darius now lives by a new standard he calls sovereignty. It means no longer betraying himself for anything, no matter how tempting. For the first time, he is experiencing what he can only describe as magic. Opportunities, solutions, and the right people are showing up in ways that feel almost impossible to explain. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Personal Reflections (02:38) The Journey of Self-Discovery (05:32) Aligning with True Purpose (08:16) The Role of Energy and Intention (10:57) Sovereignty and Self-Honoring (13:49) Experiencing Miracles and Alignment 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

    26 min
  5. 420 | Jim Murphy | The Best Possible Life: How to Live with Deep Contentment, Joy, and Confidence―No Matter What

    8 AVR.

    420 | Jim Murphy | The Best Possible Life: How to Live with Deep Contentment, Joy, and Confidence―No Matter What

    What if everything you’ve been chasing isn’t what will actually fulfill you? Performance coach and bestselling author Jim Murphy joins us on The Greatness Machine to unpack what it truly means to live the best possible life. Jim opens up about his journey from professional baseball with the Chicago Cubs organization to losing his identity after a career-ending injury, and how that turning point led him to a deeper understanding of fulfillment. Together, they challenge the belief that achievements, money, and status create happiness, and reveal why those pursuits often leave even high performers feeling empty. The conversation explores Jim’s concept of “PALMS” (Possessions, Achievements, Looks, Money, Status), the trap of ego-driven living, and how real freedom comes from turning inward toward presence, gratitude, and selfless love. Jim also shares practical insights on mastering the ego, releasing attachment to outcomes, and cultivating a more heart-centered approach to performance and leadership. They also dive into Jim’s new book, “The Best Possible Life,” where he introduces the “Three Worlds” model, a powerful framework for moving beyond external results and reconnecting with a more meaningful way of living. In this episode, Darius and Jim will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Background (01:54) The Journey from Athlete to Author (05:33) Understanding the Hedonic Trap (09:19) The Importance of Self-Awareness (13:10) Outcomes vs. Experience in Sports (17:01) The Misunderstanding of Self-Love (19:10) The Role of Mindfulness and Relationships (21:00) Tools for Healing and Growth (22:18) The Power of Servant Leadership (22:41) The Heart of Leadership (23:33) Aligning Energy for Success (26:11) The Power of Surrender (28:24) Mastering the Ego (35:50) Introducing 'The Best Possible Life' Jim Murphy is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Inner Excellence, a globally embraced performance philosophy used by elite athletes, executives, and leaders to train their heart and mind for peak performance. His upcoming book, The Best Possible Life (March 31, 2026), expands on this work, offering a broader vision for purposeful living. A world-renowned performance coach, Jim works with high achievers across sports and business. He began his career as a professional baseball player with the Chicago Cubs organization before transitioning into coaching roles with the Texas Rangers and the South African Olympic baseball team. Today, he leads Inner Excellence retreats worldwide and serves as President of the Inner Excellence Freedom Project, an initiative focused on building communities to alleviate spiritual and physical poverty. Connect with Jim: Website: https://innerexcellence.com/  LinkedIn: https://es.linkedin.com/in/innerexcellence  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

    54 min
  6. TGM Classic | Matthew Dunn | Former MI6 Spy Teaches Us Creativity and Combating Espionage

    6 AVR.

    TGM Classic | Matthew Dunn | Former MI6 Spy Teaches Us Creativity and Combating Espionage

    What do espionage and creativity have in common? As creativity becomes increasingly important for innovation and problem-solving, the field of espionage offers intriguing parallels. Both require quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to see things from a different perspective. Matthew Dunn, a British spy novelist, media talent, creative adviser, and former MI6 intelligence officer, explores how these elements intertwine. With his extensive work experience, he shares how the principles of espionage–such as observation, adaptability, and tactical thinking–mirror the creative process.  He also provides practical advice on how to harness these principles to overcome challenges and foster a more imaginative approach to life and work. From his latest projects to his philosophy on creativity, Matthew offers a fresh perspective on how these seemingly disparate fields intersect. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Matthew Dunn, who will share how his background in MI6 has profoundly influenced his creative process. He discusses how the pressures and routines of everyday life can stifle creativity and offers practical advice on rekindling one's imaginative abilities through exercises and fresh perspectives.  Overall, this conversation will provide a thought-provoking look at how the skills honed in the world of intelligence can enhance creative thinking and inspire new ways of approaching life's challenges. Topics include: Matthew’s unconventional recruitment into MI6 The critical role of high emotional intelligence (EQ) for intelligence officers Matthew shares insights into the rigorous selection process of MI6 The use of aliases and disguises in the life of an MI6 spy Matthew’s transition from espionage to writing spy novels How life experiences influence creative processes And other topics… Connect with Matthew: Website: https://www.matthewdunnauthor.com/  LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/matthew-dunn-30731a17  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewdunnauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMI6/  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

    1 h 8 min
  7. Darius Classic | What Do You Want Out of Life (Part 1)

    3 AVR.

    Darius Classic | What Do You Want Out of Life (Part 1)

    What if the key to clarity was just five minutes of stillness? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh reflects on purpose, priorities, and the practices that help him gain direction during life transitions. Inspired by a workshop with his friend and spiritual teacher Dandapani, Darius shares a simple but powerful exercise: taking just five minutes each day to sit in silence and ask, “What do I want out of life?” He opens up about his own process, exploring the feelings he wants to cultivate, the kind of family and professional life he’s building, and why recognition, influence, and freedom play important roles in shaping his next big chapter. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Personal Updates (02:55) Exploring Purpose and Focus (05:49) Daily Reflection for Clarity (08:43) Defining Life Goals and Values (11:57) Balancing Professional and Personal Life (14:49) Engagement and Recognition in Work (17:53) Establishing Priorities for the Future 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

    26 min
  8. 419 | Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld | Fortune 500 CEO Teaches Us About Leading to Thrive

    1 AVR.

    419 | Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld | Fortune 500 CEO Teaches Us About Leading to Thrive

    What does it really take to lead at the highest level without losing yourself in the process? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with former CEO and global business leader Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld to unpack the realities of leadership at scale. Klaus shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in Germany to leading global powerhouses like Siemens AG and Alcoa. He reflects on the lessons learned from navigating complex organizations, driving transformation, and aligning teams across tens of thousands of employees. Beyond strategy and operations, the conversation dives into the inner game of leadership. Klaus explains why managing energy, not time, is the key to sustained performance, and how purpose, resilience, and emotional control shape long term success. From handling uncertainty and making high stakes decisions to avoiding burnout and building alignment, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone looking to grow as a leader and thrive in both business and life. In this episode, Darius and Klaus will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld (04:12) Transitioning to Management Consulting (06:33) Navigating Corporate Structures and Leadership (08:59) Aligning Values and Incentives in Organizations (14:29) Addressing Politics in Corporate Environments (17:43) Leadership Challenges in a Complex World (21:13) Optimism in Overcoming Challenges (22:04) The Inner Game vs. Outer Game (23:26) Managing Energy for Leadership (27:14) Purpose as a Driving Force (29:09) Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Goals (35:50) The Role of Self-Trust and Spirituality (37:36) Target Audience for 'Leading to Thrive' (41:36) Current Projects and Passions (43:03) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld is a global business leader, investor, and entrepreneur, and the founder and CEO of K2Elevation, where he focuses on building technology and biotech ventures. He previously served as Chairman and CEO of Alcoa and Arconic, and spent 20 years at Siemens AG, ultimately becoming its CEO. Beyond his executive roles, Kleinfeld has advised multiple U.S. presidents and global leaders, and serves on several boards including KONUX, Brainlab, GreyOrange, and Fero Labs. He is also affiliated with organizations such as the Brookings Institution and the Council on Foreign Relations. He is the author of “Leading to Thrive: Mastering Strategies for Sustainable Success in Business and Life,” and currently lives in New York. Connect with Klaus: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klauskleinfeld/  Book: https://www.leading-to-thrive.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

    53 min

À propos

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 For ad inquiries, please reach out to: Network+TGM@yapmedia.com

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