The Greatness Machine

YAP Media
  • 5.0 (131)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED DAILY

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

  1. 401 | Donna Zajonc | The Power of TED* (*The Empowerment Dynamic)

    2D AGO

    401 | Donna Zajonc | The Power of TED* (*The Empowerment Dynamic)

    Ever find yourself stuck in drama, reacting before you think, or feeling powerless in situations you care about?  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Donna Zajonc dives deep into the Drama Triangle and its positive alternative, The Empowerment Dynamic (TED). She and Darius explore how cultivating awareness, clarifying intention, and practicing self-compassion can turn automatic reactivity into conscious leadership and personal growth. Donna shares practical strategies for recognizing when we fall into victim, persecutor, or rescuer roles, and how to shift into creator, challenger, or coach roles that empower both ourselves and others. Whether in family life, friendships, or at work, these tools offer a roadmap to more meaningful, effective, and empowered interactions. In this episode, Darius and Donna will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the Empowerment Dynamic (02:35) Donna Zajonc's Journey and Background (05:34) The Drama Triangle Explained (08:26) The Empowerment Dynamic Framework (11:23) Understanding the Roles in the Drama Triangle (14:15) Shifting from Drama to Empowerment (16:50) The Importance of Awareness and Choice (19:59) Leadership and the Empowerment Dynamic (22:39) Challenging vs. Persecuting Roles (27:29) The Power of Words and Personal Growth (29:12) Understanding the Drama Triangle (31:07) Shifting from Persecutor to Challenger (33:06) The Role of Intention in Communication (34:54) Curiosity as a Tool for Growth (37:00) Navigating the Rescuer Role (38:53) Empowerment Dynamics in Leadership (40:57) The Importance of Self-Compassion (42:50) Tools for Personal and Professional Growth (44:37) Creating a Culture of Empowerment Donna Zajonc, MCC, is the Director of Coaching at the Center for The Empowerment Dynamic, where she designs and facilitates coaching programs based on the TED* framework (The Empowerment Dynamic). A Master Certified Coach since 2013 and recipient of Washington State’s Excellence in Coaching Award in 2017, Donna has been dedicated to professional coaching since 2001. Alongside her business partner David Emerald, she helps coaches and leaders move from the Drama Triangle to the empowering roles of Creator, Challenger, and Coach. Donna lives in the Pacific Northwest, enjoying beach walks, good books, dark chocolate, microbrews, and time with her children and grandchildren. Connect with Donna: Website: https://theempowermentdynamic.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-zajonc-mcc-612455/  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

    1h 1m
  2. 400 | My One Word for 2026

    4D AGO

    400 | My One Word for 2026

    What if the way you’ve been winning is actually costing you your freedom? In this milestone 400th episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh goes solo to close out the year with a personal reflection on growth, self-worth, and alignment. Darius shares his annual practice of choosing one word to guide the year ahead, reflecting on a year defined by challenge and revealing the word shaping how he’ll show up in 2026. Along the way, he unpacks patterns many high performers face, proving worth through achievement, contorting to win, and sacrificing sovereignty for success, and why choosing wholeness over hustle changes everything. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Celebrating Milestones: Episode 400 and New Year's Eve (02:55) Reflecting on the Word of the Year: Challenge (05:55) Embracing Sovereignty: A New Direction for 2026 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

    25 min
  3. TGM Classic | Shirl Penney | Living the American Dream

    6D AGO

    TGM Classic | Shirl Penney | Living the American Dream

    How does one go from financial struggle to creating a platform worth nearly $100 billion?  This question encapsulates the extraordinary journey of Shirl Penney, founder, president, and CEO of Dynasty Financial Partners. Beginning in rural Maine where financial stability was difficult to come by, his story is one of grit and determination.  Although Shirl had to overcome early hardships, his desire for education and self-improvement led him to prestigious institutions and eventually to the competitive world of finance. Having navigated and overcome numerous obstacles led to the establishment of Dynasty Financial Partners, a firm he founded with resilience and an innovative mindset.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Shirl Penney to share his compelling journey from the financial struggles of his upbringing in rural Maine to building a financial empire managing nearly $100 billion in assets. The conversation delves into the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the innovative strategies he employed to revolutionize the wealth management industry. Shirl also discusses the importance of resilience, leadership, and maintaining a clear vision in the pursuit of success.  Topics include: Shirl looks back at being homeless to founding Dynasty Financial Partners Improving financial literacy and providing independent financial advice  The origin and motivation behind the creation of Dynasty Financial Partners The impact of Shirl’s upbringing and experiences on his approach to business The value of maintaining a strong corporate culture and significant growth And other topics… Connect with Shirl: Website: https://dynastyfinancialpartners.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirlpenney 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

    1h 3m
  4. Darius Classic | My #1 Advice for Building a Dream Client List

    12/26/2025

    Darius Classic | My #1 Advice for Building a Dream Client List

    What if the key to unlocking your biggest opportunities wasn’t in the size of your audience—but in the conversations you choose to have? In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh pulls back the curtain on one of his best-kept secrets: how to use a podcast to build powerful relationships, expand your network, and land your dream clients—without chasing downloads or going viral. He shares the origin story of The Greatness Machine, how it began as a live stream for a book launch, and why focusing on who you interview matters more than how many people are listening. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Podcasting for Networking (02:08) The Journey of The Greatness Machine (05:55) Building Relationships Through Podcasting (11:56) Podcasting as a Sales Tool (16:08) The Future of Podcasting and Networking 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

    22 min
  5. 398 | Preston Smiles | Spiritual Millionaire - Amplify Your Life through Love, Self-Worth and Abundance

    12/24/2025

    398 | Preston Smiles | Spiritual Millionaire - Amplify Your Life through Love, Self-Worth and Abundance

    Are you ready to confront the stories you tell yourself and step into your fullest potential? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Preston Smiles shares his journey of personal growth, from navigating childhood challenges to becoming a world-renowned coach and thought leader. He opens up about the patterns he had to unlearn, including addictive behaviors, identity struggles, and emotional disconnection, and how he learned to cultivate presence, healthy relationships, and leadership within his own family. Preston breaks down how our nervous system, mindset, and body intelligence shape our experiences, and why capacity, not just knowledge, is key to creating lasting transformation. He also introduces “The Bridge Experience,” an immersive workshop designed to help people embody their growth in powerful, practical ways. This conversation is raw, honest, and packed with insights about breaking cycles, expanding capacity, and living a life of love, purpose, and conscious leadership. In this episode, Darius and Preston will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction (01:47) Preston's Origin Story and Transformation (05:34) The Impact of Childhood Experiences (09:21) Resilience and Adaptation in Adversity (13:15) The Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery (18:49) The Role of Authenticity in Relationships (26:19) Surrendering to a Higher Power and Continuous Growth (30:47) The Leadership Journey: Personal Accountability (32:48) Addiction to Pain: Recognizing Patterns (35:36) Attracting Light and Darkness: The Duality of Existence (38:29) Building Capacity: The Key to Mastery (41:17) The Observer: Identifying Beyond Titles (46:52) The Bridge Experience: Transformative Workshops (54:43) Overcoming Toxic Shame: The Path to Greatness Preston Smiles is an Abundance Coach, transformational speaker, and bestselling author whose journey from surf instructor to multi-millionaire reflects his deep commitment to personal growth and humanity. Known for his high-energy presence and groundbreaking book Spiritual Millionaire: Unlock the 7 Inner Laws of Abundance, Preston has coached over 100,000 people since 2005 and leads global workshops with his wife, Alexi. His work centers on nervous system healing, embodied leadership, and expanded abundance. A former Millennial Mentor of the Year and cover feature of Inspired Coach Magazine, Preston has appeared on top platforms like Impact Theory and The School of Greatness. His bold messages and viral content continue to inspire millions—earning him praise from leaders like Jack Canfield and Michael Beckwith, who call him “unstoppable.” Connect with Preston: Website: https://prestonsmiles.com/  Workshop: https://www.thebridgemethod.org/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prestonsmiles/  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

    1h 7m
  6. TGM Classic | Darius Foroux | The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity

    12/22/2025

    TGM Classic | Darius Foroux | The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity

    In our pursuit of wealth, what lessons can we learn from stoicism? Darius Foroux, an investor, entrepreneur, blogger, podcast host, and writer, examines how to achieve lasting wealth and personal fulfillment by exploring stoicism's timeless wisdom. His newest book, The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity, serves as a practical guide for integrating stoic principles into financial strategies. Rather than placing a heavy emphasis on external circumstances, Darius Foroux emphasizes the importance of emotional mastery in wealth-building. Through stoic teachings, he highlights moderation, gratitude, and meaningful experiences over material possessions as ways to transition from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset. This episode of The Greatness Machine features Darius Foroux to give a sneak peek into his new book, The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity, and to delve into the transformation power of stoicism in the pursuit of wealth, emphasizing the emotional resilience and mastery as foundational to financial success. This conversation will also explore the intersection of philosophy and practical financial strategies, providing a compelling framework for enduring prosperity. Topics include: Darius Foroux talks about his motivation for book writing The benefits of managing emotions to build wealth Transitioning from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset  The importance of not being overly attached to money Darius Foroux discusses living according to stoicism Prioritizing meaningful experiences over material possessions And other topics… Connect with Darius Foroux: Website: https://dariusforoux.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusforoux/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dariusforoux/ Book: https://members.dariusforoux.com/stoic-path  Connect with Darius Mirshahzadeh: 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

    52 min
  7. 397 | How to Be A Strong Person (Part 2)

    12/19/2025

    397 | How to Be A Strong Person (Part 2)

    What if real strength isn’t about power or dominance, but about generosity, courage, and who you stand up for when no one’s watching? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh continues his series on How to Be a Strong Person, focusing on two defining traits: giving more than you take and standing up for the little guy. Darius challenges scarcity thinking and outrage-driven culture, encouraging listeners to lead with abundance, generosity, and integrity. Through personal stories and leadership lessons, he shares how true strength shows up in everyday actions, from supporting others to using influence responsibly. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) The Rise of Polarizing Content (02:42) Giving More Than You Take (11:01) Standing Up for the Little Guy 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

    30 min
  8. 396 | Jennifer K. Hill | Decoding What Truly Drives People in Work and Life

    12/17/2025

    396 | Jennifer K. Hill | Decoding What Truly Drives People in Work and Life

    What really drives people to succeed, and how can understanding it transform your teams and relationships? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Jennifer Hill, author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of OptiMatch. Jennifer dives into the science of human motivation and connection, explaining how her OptiMatch system measures what drives people and how those motivators impact teamwork, business partnerships, and even personal relationships. She shares insights on how understanding team members’ motivational profiles can reduce friction, improve communication, and create more effective collaboration. Darius and Jennifer explore practical applications of OptiMatch, including assessing startup teams, venture capital investments, and business partnerships. Jennifer also touches on how motivation alignment can predict compatibility beyond business, including in romantic relationships, and gives a sneak peek into her upcoming book, “Recovering Asshole.” In this episode, Darius and Jennifer will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and First Impressions (05:50) Entrepreneurial Beginnings (08:52) The Road to Recruitment (15:03) Personal Development and Transformation (17:58) Understanding the Asshole Within (20:48) The Impact of Humor and Public Perception (23:52) Navigating Career Choices (27:04) Reflections on Wealth and Responsibility (29:55) Energetic Hygiene and Self-Care (30:52) Exploring Sleep Aids and Personal Rituals (33:30) Introducing OptiMatch: A New Business Venture (39:34) Understanding Human Design and Team Dynamics (52:31) The Importance of Motivation in Partnerships (59:23) Overcoming Personal Barriers to Greatness Jennifer K. Hill is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and thought leader in business and personal development. She co-founded OptiMatch, a platform that helps build high-trust relationships in business, and consults with CEOs to improve team alignment and productivity. Host of the Regarding Consciousness podcast, Jennifer has interviewed global leaders including Dr. Deepak Chopra and Dr. Bruce Lipton. She has authored two books, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Visioneers, and is passionate about giving back, having built two schools in developing countries. Sponsored by: Aura Frames: Visit AuraFrames.com and get $35 off Aura’s best selling Carver Mat frame. auraframes.com (promo code DARIUS). Indeed: And listeners of this show will get a SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLAR SPONSORED JOB CREDIT to get your jobs more visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS Masterclass: Get up to 50% off at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at shopify.com/darius /podcast10 Connect with Jennifer: Website: https://jenniferkhill.com/  Survey: https://om.app/survey  Email: jennifer@om.app 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

    1h 9m
See All (637)

5
out of 5
131 Ratings

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

Information

  • Channel
    YAP Media
  • Creator
    Darius Mirshahzadeh | YAP Media
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    637
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 134043
  • Show Website
    The Greatness Machine

More From YAP Media

You Might Also Like