The Greatness Machine

YAP Media
YAP Media
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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. 1 hr ago

    443 | Dr. Marc Gafni | First Principles and First Values: Forty-Two Propositions on CosmoErotic Humanism, the Meta-Crisis, and the World to Come

    Host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with philosopher, author, and cultural thinker Dr. Marc Gafni for a wide-ranging conversation that is equal parts philosophical deep-dive and urgent call to action. Dr. Gafni, whose work spans Oxford-trained philosophy, mystical traditions, evolutionary theory, and cutting-edge science, makes the case that humanity is at a critical inflection point, facing what he calls the "metacrisis": a convergence of existential threats that cannot be solved by fixing infrastructure or social structures alone. The only real solution, he argues, is changing the story of value from which we generate reality itself. Drawing on his landmark book “First Principles and First Values,” Dr. Gafni unpacks why value is not a human invention but a fundamental property of the cosmos, and why reclaiming that understanding is the most important rebellion of our time. In this episode, Darius and Dr. Marc will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Marc Gafni (12:14) Exploring First Values and Their Importance (23:57) The Role of Ego in Human Experience (47:58) Vision for a Humane Future (01:02:04) Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Dr. Marc Gafni is a visionary philosopher, social activist, and author whose work explores consciousness, human development, and evolutionary thought. He is the creator of influential frameworks such as Unique Self theory, the Five Selves, and CosmoErotic Humanism, and the author of more than 25 books, including the award-winning Your Unique Self: The Radical Path to Personal Enlightenment. His recent work includes Whole Mate, Evolution of Love from Quarks to Culture, and the First Principles and First Values series, co-authored under the pseudonym David J. Temple with Zak Stein and Ken Wilber, advancing a new philosophy for addressing the global meta-crisis and the future of humanity. Connect with Dr. Marc Global community: www.whowemustbecome.com    Download Chapter 1-5 of First Principles & First Values: https://worldphilosophyandreligion.org/free-download-chapter-1-5-of-first-principles-and-first-values  First Principles and First Values (book): https://www.amazon.com/First-Principles-Values-Propositions-CosmoErotic/dp/B0DZP633BB  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.

    443 | Dr. Marc Gafni | First Principles and First Values: Forty-Two Propositions on CosmoErotic Humanism, the Meta-Crisis, and the World to Come

  2. 2 days ago

    TGM Classic | Jhana Li | Scaling Smart: How to Build a Thriving, Efficient Business

    Optimizing business operations isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about creating a culture where teams thrive and businesses scale sustainably. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Jhana Li shares powerful insights on transforming company dynamics through team swaps, radical honesty, and operational intelligence. She breaks down how leaders can uncover hidden inefficiencies, foster a feedback-driven environment, and build organizations that don’t just grow, but evolve. From navigating tough conversations to designing systems that support long-term success, Jhana offers a roadmap for turning operations into a competitive advantage. In this episode, Darius and Jhana will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Background (02:02) Jhana's Journey into Operations (04:59) The Role of Visionaries and Integrators (08:00) Defining Success in Business (09:55) The Importance of Sustainable Growth (12:52) Learning Through Pain in Entrepreneurship (17:11) Navigating Remote Work and Team Culture (19:56) Mentorship in a Remote Environment (23:09) Operational Strategies for Business Success (24:25) The Bucket Analogy: Understanding Operations (26:27) Finding the Right Operator (28:19) The Role of Subject Matter Expertise (31:50) Removing Friction for Sustainable Growth (33:25) Building a Remote Culture (36:33) Essential Technologies for Virtual Operations (46:49) Creating a Culture of Radical Honesty (48:57) Starting with Low-Hanging Fruit in Culture Change Jhana Li is the founder of Spyglass Ops, a company dedicated to helping entrepreneurs scale past 7- and 8-figures through expert Operations consulting, recruitment, and training. Before launching Spyglass Ops, Jhana served as COO for multiple startups, all while traveling full-time in a converted van across North and South America. After witnessing countless founders struggle without the right operational foundations, she set out to change that. Over the past three years, she has helped 100+ businesses streamline their operations, enabling them to grow while reclaiming their personal freedom. Connect with Jhana: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhana-li  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejhanali/ Twitter: https://x.com/thejhanali  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.

    TGM Classic | Jhana Li | Scaling Smart: How to Build a Thriving, Efficient Business

  3. 5 days ago

    Darius Classic | How to Overcome the Tests of Life to Level Up

    Are you aware of the tests you've had to endure throughout your life? As we move through life, leveling up and growing, we all experience various tests designed to help us expand and meet the new challenges the future brings, even if we're not aware of it.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is recording from Wahaca, Mexico to discuss the tests we all have to pass in order to level up in our lives.  Join Darius as he discusses the tests we all must face as we level up to a new form of greatness! Enjoy! Topics include: Why the most successful people are always focused on the next goal, and the next target Some of the tests Darius has had to endure to grow and expand in his life Why recognizing these tests and persevering through them is a key component of success 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.

    Darius Classic | How to Overcome the Tests of Life to Level Up

  4. 5 Aug

    442 | Derin McMains | How to Have Competitive Freedom

    Host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Derin McMains, a former professional baseball player turned elite mental performance coach. Derin spent years building mental performance programs for the San Francisco Giants (three-time World Champions), the Seattle Mariners, and the University of Notre Dame, and currently serves as Director of Mental Performance at global cybersecurity company ReliaQuest. In this wide-ranging conversation on The Greatness Machine, Derin and Darius explore what separates good performers from great ones, the psychology of competitive freedom, the role of spirituality in peak performance, and why mastering the fundamentals is the foundation of elite achievement. In this episode, Darius and Derin will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Background (01:57) Derin’s Origin Story and Journey (04:47) The Search for Competitive Edge (09:00) Mastery and Normalization in Performance (15:06) Embodiment and Mental Performance (20:10) Paths to Unshakable Belief (24:06) Mental Toughness and Spirituality (31:45) The Game of Life vs. Real Life (32:30) Embodiment and Mental Health (33:57) The Need for Mental Performance Training (35:27) Intentional Relationships and Self-Selection (37:39) The Impact of Surroundings on Behavior (39:19) High Challenge, High Support Dynamics (41:33) Leadership and Capacity Building (43:50) Pushing Past Capacity in a Healthy Way (49:51) Seasons of Life and Intentional Downtime (54:29) Overcoming Perfectionism Derin McMains is a leading Mental Performance Coach who works with elite athletes, business executives, and high-performing teams. A former professional baseball player and manager, he has spent more than 14 years developing mental performance programs for organizations including the San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, and the University of Notre Dame. A three-time World Series champion with the Giants, McMains also serves as a mental performance consultant for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Beyond sports, he leads the Mental Performance team at ReliaQuest, where he coaches leaders across four countries, and hosts the No Show Dogs podcast, recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 5 podcasts for Leadership and Wellness. Connect with Derin: Website: https://reliaquest.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derin-mcmains-cmpc-09158662  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmac_mindset/  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.

    442 | Derin McMains | How to Have Competitive Freedom

  5. 3 Aug

    TGM Classic | Ryan Begelman (Part 1) | The Mayor Effect: How to Dominate Any Niche You Choose

    Networking is more than just exchanging business cards—it’s about cultivating meaningful, lasting connections that open doors to new opportunities and mutual growth. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Ryan Begelman shares his proven strategies for building relationships with intention, hosting impactful events, and using curiosity to forge deeper connections. He reveals how adding value to every interaction can help you stand out and create a network that fuels both personal and professional success. From practical tips to mindset shifts, this conversation explores how to transform your approach to networking and turn it into a powerful tool for growth and influence. In this episode, Darius and Ryan will discuss: (00:00) Ryan Begelman's Background and Early Influences (02:58) The Journey into Entrepreneurship (05:54) The Birth of Summit and Bisnow (08:48) Navigating the Corporate World and Side Hustles (12:12) Lessons from Early Career Experiences (14:49) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (17:58) The Evolution of Summit Series (29:07) Challenges and Triumphs in Event Planning (35:32) The Shift from Summit to New Ventures (46:04) Networking Strategies for Entrepreneurs (49:32) Inspiring Figures and Lessons Learned Ryan Begelman is an executive coach, entrepreneur, and investor. As CEO of Bisnow Media, he grew the company from $1 million to $20 million in revenue before its sale in 2016. He co-founded Summit, described by Forbes as “The Davos of Generation Y,” and has invested in startups like Uber, Warby Parker, and Coinbase. A mindfulness practitioner based in NYC, Ryan is passionate about cycling, cooking, and lifelong learning. Connect with Ryan: Website: https://www.ryanbegelman.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanbegelman  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanbegelman/  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.

    TGM Classic | Ryan Begelman (Part 1) | The Mayor Effect: How to Dominate Any Niche You Choose

  6. 31 Jul

    Darius Classic | The Truth About Inflation

    In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius does a deep dive into the concept of inflation and its effects on the economy, as well as the way it’s calculated, both now and in the past.  In this episode, you'll discover how inflation is truly calculated, how the Consumer Price Index factors in, why understanding inflation requires research... and patience, some of the biggest changes that have happened to the way inflation is calculated and presented.  Join Darius for this fascinating look into a subject we've all heard of, but probably don't understand as well as we'd like: inflation.  Topics include: How the Consumer Price Index factors into calculating the inflation rate Why patience and some degree of deep-digging is required to truly get a grasp on inflation as the government presents it Changes that have been made to the way inflation is calculated over time And other topics… 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.

    Darius Classic | The Truth About Inflation

  7. 29 Jul

    441 | Raj Sisodia | Healing Leaders: 7 Steps to Recovery of Self

    Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Raj Sisodia, Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Conscious Capitalism Inc. and New York Times bestselling author, to explore the origins of the conscious capitalism movement, the flawed assumptions embedded in modern business education, and Raj's powerful new book “Healing Leaders: 7 Steps to Recovery of Self”. Raj shares his extraordinary personal journey, from a small village in India without electricity to Columbia University and ultimately to co-founding a global movement alongside Whole Foods CEO John Mackey. The conversation spans the philosophy of human nature, the systemic forces working against conscious business, and the deeply personal inner work every leader must do to become truly effective and whole. In this episode, Darius and Raj will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction (01:16) Raj Sisodia's Background and Journey (04:17) The Negative Consequences of Traditional Business Practices (05:42) The Pillars of Conscious Capitalism (06:54) The Origin of Conscious Capitalism and Its Founders (08:33) Challenges in Bringing Consciousness to Finance (10:35) Understanding Human Nature and Its Role in Business (13:47) The Wisdom Traditions and Conscious Capitalism (15:42) Egalitarian Roots and Capitalism's Evolution (17:01) Leadership and Systemic Change (18:23) Changing Education and Systemic Beliefs (22:23) The Current Moment and Future of Conscious Business (26:01) Power, Virtue, and Leadership at Scale (31:05) Scaling Conscious Business and Systemic Challenges (34:38) Personal Transformation and Leadership Healing (42:13) The Journey of Self-Healing and Inner Work (48:07) The Seven Steps to Self-Healing and Leadership Recovery (53:45) Where to Learn More and Final Thoughts Raj Sisodia is the FEMSA Distinguished University Professor of Conscious Enterprise at Tecnológico de Monterrey and Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Conscious Capitalism Inc. He holds a PhD in Business from Columbia University and is the author of sixteen books, including the New York Times bestseller Conscious Capitalism and Firms of Endearment. A globally recognized thought leader in conscious business and leadership, Raj has advised leading organizations such as IBM, Walmart, Whole Foods Market, Siemens, and AT&T. Connect with Raj: Website: https://rajsisodia.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajendrasisodia/  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.

    441 | Raj Sisodia | Healing Leaders: 7 Steps to Recovery of Self

  8. 27 Jul

    TGM Classic | Paige Mycoskie | Turning Dreams into a Global Lifestyle Fashion Brand

    After transforming her love for vintage clothing and 1970s surf culture into the globally recognized brand Aviator Nation, Paige Mycoskie has become a symbol of passion-driven entrepreneurship. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Paige shares the story of building a brand that not only celebrates creativity but also fosters a culture of community and adventure. Paige delves into the importance of staying authentic in a fast-paced world, the value of stepping away from technology to spark inspiration, and the lessons she’s learned from her journey as a leader. In this episode, Darius and Paige will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Background (02:4) Paige's Origin Story and Early Influences (06:03) The Birth of Aviator Nation (09:00) Initial Success and Market Fit (11:59) Scaling the Business and Production Challenges (15:05) Leadership Journey and Team Dynamics (26:54) Embracing Challenges and Team Growth (28:48) Advice for Young Entrepreneurs (30:58) The Creative Process and Authenticity (37:04) Maintaining Company Culture During Growth (42:45) Finding Your Ikigai (45:43) Sibling Success: Learning from Each Other Paige Mycoskie is the founder of Aviator Nation, a 70's-inspired, Made-in-America lifestyle brand with 17 U.S. retail locations and a factory in Los Angeles. Recognized as GQ Magazine's Designer of the Year and a Forbes-featured entrepreneur, Paige combines fashion, music, and philanthropy through partnerships with festivals like SXSW and nonprofits like Charity Water. From hand-sewing her first garments to creating immersive retail experiences, Paige continues to champion American manufacturing and inspire a new era of design and entrepreneurship. Connect with Paige: Website: https://www.aviatornation.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aviatornation/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paigemycoskie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-mycoskie-17a9b56  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paigemycoskie/  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.

    TGM Classic | Paige Mycoskie | Turning Dreams into a Global Lifestyle Fashion Brand
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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

Information

  • Channel
    YAP Media
  • Creator
    Darius Mirshahzadeh | YAP Media
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    730
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 134043
  • Show Website
    The Greatness Machine

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