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. 2 days ago

    Darius Classic | Are We in a Housing Bubble?

    Are we in a housing bubble? Could the events of 2008 be happening all over again? These are questions that are being asked by both experts in the housing market and those in the media. The temptation is to assume that history is repeating itself, and the same factors that created the 2008 crash are once again at work.  In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius wades into the debate with his own insights on the current housing market. He believes that talk of a 'return to 2008' is simply untrue and shows a lack of understanding of the industry. In this episode you'll discover: - How Darius' own experiences working in the mortgage industry in 2008 informs his current views. - The various elements that contributed to the 2008 housing crash, such as the banking crisis. - Why the challenges of the current housing market are nothing like the ones seen 15 years ago. Join Darius as he cuts through the media noise and brings some clarity to this subject. Enjoy! What You'll Learn in this Show: Darius' experience working in the mortgage industry during the 2008 crash. Some of the factors that, at the time, helped create the crisis. Why "it's another 2008n housing crisis" represents flawed thinking. And so much more... 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

    Darius Classic | Are We in a Housing Bubble?
  2. 4 days ago

    440 | Lea Llovio | The Doc Whisperer: Why Your Healing Depends on Your Thoughts

    In this enlightening conversation on The Greatness Machine, host Darius sits down with Lea Llovio, private advisor to elite leaders, globally sought-after keynote speaker, and creator of the Conscious Wellness for Conscious Leadership framework. Lea shares her journey from growing up across diverse Los Angeles neighborhoods and working in entertainment, to becoming a trusted advisor to top physicians and high-profile change makers worldwide. The conversation dives deep into the power of thought management, radical self-acceptance, the sacredness of the human body, and why optimizing yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually is the foundation of true greatness, and genuine service to others. In this episode, Darius and Lea will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Sacred Medicine (01:29) Lea's Origin Story and Intuition (04:38) Cultural Diversity and Human Connection (06:48) The Role of Visibility in Leadership (10:08) Healing Through Thought Processes (11:44) Embodiment and Energy Management (15:41) Reverence for Life and Service (17:22) The Duality of Human Nature (20:32) Stalking Your Thoughts for Growth (28:47) Radical Self-Acceptance and Amusement (31:36) Understanding Energy and Empathy (34:54) Cultural and Spiritual Influences (39:27) The Role of Physicians in Healing (44:54) The Intersection of Science and Spirituality Lea Llovio is a Thought Leader, creator of Conscious Wellness™ for Conscious Leadership™, and a globally sought-after keynote speaker who serves as a private advisor to visionary founders, industry-leading doctors, and culture-defining change agents whose decisions shape markets, medicine, and policy. Known as the "Doc Whisperer," she is the person elite leaders turn to when something is blocking their progress or healing and no one else can identify what it is. Lea's work centers on elevating purpose and accelerating healing by helping high achievers dissolve the self-imposed and external interference, mental, emotional, and energetic, that drains their power and distracts from their impact. Her signature framework, Conscious Wellness™ for Conscious Leadership™, integrates Scientific Medicine and Spiritual Medicine into a practical, results-driven approach that helps leaders return to their core and live what she calls the Blessing Way™. Connect with Lea: Website: https://leallovio.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leallovio  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leallovio/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeaLlovio  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

    440 | Lea Llovio | The Doc Whisperer: Why Your Healing Depends on Your Thoughts
  3. 6 days ago

    TGM Classic | Wayne Hoffman | The Hidden Power of the Mind: What Top Mentalists Don’t Want You to Know

    What if your mind could be read in an instant, and every thought you had was predicted before you even spoke it? In this episode, Wayne Hoffman, a master mentalist, takes us behind the curtain to explore the mysterious art of reading minds and influencing thoughts. From his groundbreaking performances to his insights into overcoming fear and embracing rejection, Wayne shares how the ability to control perception has shaped his career and personal growth. He also reveals why embracing the word "no" is key to unlocking greatness in both life and business.  In this episode, Darius and Wayne will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Wayne Hoffman (03:04) Wayne's Origin Story (05:51) The Journey of a Mentalist (08:57) The Importance of Passion in Show Business (11:47) Overcoming Adversity and Naysayers (15:06) The Power of Collecting No's (17:54) Setting Specific Goals for Success (20:48) The Coin Analogy: Yes and No (24:07) Real-Life Applications of Asking for What You Want (27:00) Pitching a TV Show: The Process (29:49) Conclusion and Key Takeaways (34:03) The Genesis of a New Project (35:01) The Power of Connections (36:25) Networking and Its Importance (39:10) The Art of Mentalism (40:19) Demonstrating Mentalism (45:57) Understanding Mentalism Techniques (52:22) The Future of Mentalism (54:10) Connecting with Wayne Hoffman (56:22) Overcoming the Fear of No Wayne Hoffman is a world-renowned mentalist, award-winning performer, and best-selling author of Mind Candy. Known for his captivating stage shows and keynote speech, The Power and Potential of the Human Mind, Wayne combines mentalism, psychology, and illusions to inspire and entertain audiences globally. His high-energy presentations challenge perceptions and drive personal and professional growth, making him a sought-after speaker and coach for top leaders worldwide. Connect with Wayne: Website: https://waynehoffman.com/ Website: http://conjurorscabinet.com/  Website: http://ilovehoffman.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hoffmanmagic  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waynehoffman/  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

    TGM Classic | Wayne Hoffman | The Hidden Power of the Mind: What Top Mentalists Don’t Want You to Know
  4. 15 Jul

    439 | Jon Irvine (Part 2) | The Future of Housing: How One Law Could Cut Home Prices in Half

    In Part 2 of this conversation on The Greatness Machine, host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down again with real estate developer and former mortgage industry executive Jon Irvine to dive deep into America's housing affordability crisis and the groundbreaking California legislation that could reshape how homes are built across the country. Jon shares a pivotal personal moment, selling a modest 2,000 sq ft Beverly Grove home for $3.35 million, that crystallized why younger generations are being priced out of homeownership. From there, the conversation explores California Senate Bill 1123 (SB 1123), a transformative zoning law that could allow developers to build up to 10 homes where only one previously stood, at price points 30–50% below comparable market properties. The episode also touches on the role of AI in streamlining permitting, the lingering impact of the LA wildfires on housing policy, and Jon's ambitious plan to build 500–1,000 homes in the Los Angeles basin over the next three to four years. In this episode, Darius and Jon will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Recap of Part One (02:53) The Future of Housing and Home Ownership (05:47) Transitioning from Lending to Development (08:12) The Challenges of Affordability in Housing (11:16) California's New Housing Law: SB 1123 (13:50) Understanding the Housing Shortage Crisis (16:50) The Transformative Impact of SB 1123 (19:37) Navigating the Development Process (22:00) The Realities of Building in California (25:21) Challenges in Real Estate Development (29:43) Streamlining the Entitlement Process (32:29) The Impact of SB 1123 on Development (36:59) Addressing California's Housing Shortage (42:30) Creating Affordable Housing Solutions Jon Irvine is the Founder and CEO of Westcove Development, a Southern California real estate development firm specializing in design-forward, small-lot single family homes in high-demand, supply-constrained markets. Drawing on California's evolving housing legislation — including SB 1123 — Westcove manages the full development lifecycle from acquisition and entitlement through construction and sale. Jon brings nearly three decades of senior executive experience in residential finance, having held leadership roles at Change Lending, Banc of California, OneWest Bank (under CEO Steven Mnuchin), and Mr. Cooper/Nationstar, where he led initiatives across capital markets, production, and strategic growth. Through Westcove, he channels deep institutional finance expertise into scalable residential development built to meet California's urgent housing needs. Connect with Jon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonirvine/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Westcove-Development-61572683421911/  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

    439 | Jon Irvine (Part 2) | The Future of Housing: How One Law Could Cut Home Prices in Half
  5. 13 Jul

    TGM Classic | Dr. Kate Balestrieri | What Happened to My Sex Life?: A Sex Therapist’s Guide to Reclaiming Lost Desire, Connection, and Pleasure

    After years of helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of intimacy, renowned clinical psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Kate Balestrieri has seen it all—from the challenges of fostering honest conversations to the powerful transformation that comes with reconnecting to oneself. In this episode, Dr. Kate shares profound insights into why so many people feel disconnected from their desire and how curiosity, vulnerability, and non-judgment can reignite connection and pleasure in relationships. Drawing from themes in her upcoming book, “What Happened to My Sex Life,” she also reveals how overcoming self-abandonment is the key to living authentically and building deeper intimacy. In this episode, Darius and Dr. Kate will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Kate Balestrieri (02:00) Dr. Kate's Journey into Sex Therapy (05:40) Exploring Crime and Psychology (09:35) The Spectrum of Sexuality (12:50) Cultural Shame Around Sex (15:39) Hedonism vs. Shame in Sexuality (18:59) Parenting and Sexual Education (27:14) The State of Sexual Satisfaction (33:40) Improving Partnered Sex Lives (37:58) Navigating Novelty in Relationships (43:59) The Rise of Non-Monogamy (49:03) The Role of Therapy in Sexual Conversations Dr. Kate Balestrieri is a licensed psychologist, certified sex therapist, and founder of Modern Intimacy, with practices in Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago. Passionate about the intersection of mental health, sex, and relationships, she helps individuals and couples heal from trauma, navigate addictions, improve communication, and build deeper intimacy. Guided by a holistic approach that integrates evidence-based practices, Dr. Kate emphasizes the mind-body connection to foster resilience, recovery, and thriving vitality. She also hosts the podcast Get Naked with Dr. Kate, where she explores topics on mental health, sexuality, and relationships. Connect with Dr. Kate: Website: https://www.modernintimacy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-balestrieri-psy-d-cst-csat-s-pact-iii-42b378152/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkatebalestrieri/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-naked-with-dr-kate/id1563975869 Book: https://www.amazon.com/What-Happened-My-Sex-Life/dp/1891011766  Connect with 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

    TGM Classic | Dr. Kate Balestrieri | What Happened to My Sex Life?: A Sex Therapist’s Guide to Reclaiming Lost Desire, Connection, and Pleasure
  6. 8 Jul

    438 | Jon Irvine (Part 1) | The Future of Housing: The Generational Wealth Gap No One Is Talking About

    In this first installment of a two-part conversation, host Darius Mirshahzadeh reconnects with longtime friend and industry veteran Jon Irvine, founder and CEO of Westcove Development. The two pick up where they left off after years apart, a reunion sparked when Jon accidentally discovered Darius's podcast while stuck in LA traffic. What follows is a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation covering Jon's biracial upbringing, his accidental entry into mortgage finance, a landmark $1.3 billion sale to Merrill Lynch 90 days before the 2008 financial crisis, the personal losses that forced him to rethink his legacy, and the unexpected signs that led him to launch a real estate development company. This episode is equal parts origin story, life philosophy, and housing industry insight with plenty of laughs along the way. In this episode, Darius and Jon will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and First Impressions (02:36) The Power of Personality Over Looks (05:25) The Impact of Generosity in Relationships (08:07) Reconnecting and the Journey to Podcasting (10:55) Background and Early Life of Jon Irvine (13:31) Transitioning from Finance to Housing Development (21:57) The Journey into Mortgages (27:59) Building a Successful Mortgage Company (32:12) Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis (37:42) Understanding Generational Wealth Disparities (41:43) Transitioning to Real Estate Development Jon Irvine is the Founder and CEO of Westcove Development, a Southern California real estate development firm specializing in design-forward, small-lot single family homes in high-demand, supply-constrained markets. Drawing on California's evolving housing legislation — including SB1123 — Westcove manages the full development lifecycle from acquisition and entitlement through construction and sale. Jon brings nearly three decades of senior executive experience in residential finance, having held leadership roles at Change Lending, Banc of California, OneWest Bank (under CEO Steven Mnuchin), and Mr. Cooper/Nationstar, where he led initiatives across capital markets, production, and strategic growth. Through Westcove, he channels deep institutional finance expertise into scalable residential development built to meet California's urgent housing needs. Connect with Jon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonirvine/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Westcove-Development-61572683421911/  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

    438 | Jon Irvine (Part 1) | The Future of Housing: The Generational Wealth Gap No One Is Talking About

About

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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