355 episodes

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

The Greatness Machine Darius Mirshahzadeh

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 958 Ratings

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

    TGM Classic | Nick Gray | The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings

    TGM Classic | Nick Gray | The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings

    Humans are not meant to be alone all the time. But with jobs to fulfill, businesses to run, kids to look after, and loved ones to spend time with, how do you gather old and new folks to rekindle friendships and encourage new connections?

    What better way to bring people together than hosting a cocktail party, right?

    Nick Gray, the founder of Museum Hack and author of The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings, joins us to share how he went from helping his family’s businesses to launching his own tour operator business and then writing his very first book about the benefits of hosting social gatherings. 

    In this episode, Nick looks back at how he made it possible to help his family grow their business by leading their hiring, marketing, and international sales. He takes us back to when he started and grew Museum Hack and reveals why he sold and exited the company in 2018. Nick also talks about the benefits of hosting cocktail parties in widening your network and building connections.

    Topics include:

    How Nick became a museum tour guide and turned Hack the Met tours into a business

    How long it took Nick to launch his book, The 2-Hour Cocktail Party


    Nick and Darius share one thing to consider before publishing a book

    How Nick grew Museum Hack before he stepped down and sold the company

    The biggest fear of a new party host and how to avoid it

    Nick reveals the best days to host a cocktail party

    The secret formula to successfully hosting parties and making new friends

    Nick explains why a conventional cocktail party lasts only 2 hours

    Tips for parents who want to host or attend a party

    How to leverage party hosting

    And other topics…


    Resources:
    How to Host a Party Website: https://party.pro/ 
    The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: https://party.pro/book/  
    The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: https://amzn.to/39rfb2V  
    The Easy Way to Host or Plan a Networking Event: https://party.pro/networking/ 
    How to Plan a Clothing Swap (The Easy Way): https://party.pro/swap/ 
    Hosting a Happy Hour: Nick Gray’s How-to Guide: https://party.pro/happyhour/ 
    Kids at Your Party: Get a Sitter: https://party.pro/kids/ 

    Connect with Nick:
    Website: https://nickgray.net/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickgraynews/?hl=en 

    Connect with Darius:
    Website: https://therealdarius.com/
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/
    YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube
    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

    • 58 min
    267 | How to Build Your Relationship Balance Sheet

    267 | How to Build Your Relationship Balance Sheet

    Are your relationships lifting you up or weighing you down?

    Today, I am flying solo to illustrate how positive relationships can make a big difference in life. 

    Drawing from my own experiences and insights, this episode prompts listeners to consider the true value of the relationships they nurture. Just as assets contribute to financial prosperity, positive relationships propel us forward on our journey towards greatness. Similarly, liabilities–such as toxic friendships, draining business partnerships, or unsupportive environments–impede progress and hinder personal development. 

    This episode of The Greatness Machine will prompt the listeners to think about whether the people around them are helping them grow or holding them back. By thinking of relationships like assets (things that help us) and liabilities (things that hold us back), this episode will help the audience understand the importance of surrounding themselves with people who make them feel good and help them succeed.

    Topics include:

    The benefits of viewing life in terms of assets and liabilities

    The importance of assessing relationships as assets and liabilities

    Why it matters to set boundaries with negative influences 

    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://therealdarius.com/youtube
    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

    • 20 min
    266 | Clay Martin (Part 1) | Learnings from a Green Beret: How Childhood Influences Shape Military Paths

    266 | Clay Martin (Part 1) | Learnings from a Green Beret: How Childhood Influences Shape Military Paths

    How do childhood influences shape the mindset and motivations of those who serve in the military?

    From early exposure to media depicting heroic military figures to the weight of familial legacies, past experiences intricately shape career decisions in the armed forces. These influences, whether based on action-packed films or the proud lineage of ancestors who served, instill a sense of duty, honor, and tradition.

    Clay Martin, a seasoned veteran whose military journey spans roles as a former USMC Infantryman, Reconnaissance Marine, and Scout Sniper, provides a glimpse into his familial heritage. He illuminates the proud tradition of military service that runs through his family, acting as a guiding force in his own journey towards enlistment. Clay shares poignant anecdotes about relatives who served in the military, emphasizing the profound sense of duty and honor instilled within him from a young age.

    In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius welcomes special guest Clay to discuss a range of topics, from the carnivore diet to Clay's military background and a lot more. Clay shares his family's history of service and his decision to join the Marines, influenced by 80s action movies. In addition, they discuss the common motivations behind military enlistment.

    Topics include:

    The challenges and benefits of switching to a carnivore diet

    Clay shares personal anecdotes about his previous experiences with dietary changes

    Elon Musk’s unconventional approach to business and rule-breaking

    Clay shares his military origins and joining the Marines on his 18th birthday

    The warrior mentality and how it can manifest in different aspects of life

    And other topics…


    Connect with Clay:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clay-martin-a26ba616b 
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/wayofftheres

    Connect with Darius:
    Website: https://therealdarius.com/
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/
    YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube
    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

    • 1 hr 25 min
    TGM Classic | Travis Chappell | Sales Is Life - How Selling Church, Door To Door Solar And A Startup Led To Massive Success

    TGM Classic | Travis Chappell | Sales Is Life - How Selling Church, Door To Door Solar And A Startup Led To Massive Success

    How does growing up in a bubble prepare you for life outside of it?

    Having spent his entire childhood in a church campus, it took Travis Chappell long years to realize that the path he was in at that time was not the life that he wanted to lead. 

    Travis, the man behind the Build Your Network podcast, looks back at how a ministry degree holder like him went from making door-to-door sales to starting a podcast and to building his own business. 

    Despite having to start from scratch, he persevered and used his experience making door-to-door until he finally launched his first-ever podcast in 2017. He later built his business, Guestio, where he teaches entrepreneurs how to build, grow, and monetize podcasts through interviewing.

    In this episode, Travis gets real about growing up in a Christian bubble and discovering his passion for podcasting. He and Darius also talk about the key strategies to build an audience, how to achieve success in the industry, and how to leverage podcasts to establish brand authority.

    Topics include:

    Travis looks back on growing up in a Fundamentalist Christian bubble

    How Travis started his podcast show and podcast coaching

    Why Travis decided to do door-to-door sales after college instead of going into ministry

    Podcasters that inspired Travis to get into the industry

    The secret formula for podcast success

    Leveraging podcasts to enhance brand

    How to get started in podcasting

    What Travis envisions Guestio to achieve


    Expanding the Build Your Network podcast for a wider reach


    And other topics…


    Connect with Travis:
    Website: https://travischappell.com/ 
    Website: https://guestio.com/ 
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travischappell/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travischappell/?hl=en 

    Connect with Darius:
    Website: https://therealdarius.com/
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/
    YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube
    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

    • 1 hr 9 min
    265 | Bigger Conversations = Bigger Success

    265 | 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…


    Connect with Darius:
    Website: https://therealdarius.com/
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/
    YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube
    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

    • 16 min
    264 | Pamela Cantor, M.D. | Realizing Your Fullest Potential

    264 | Pamela Cantor, M.D. | Realizing Your Fullest Potential

    Do you ever pause to consider the extraordinary capacity that lies within you to transcend adversity and unlock your fullest potential?

    Realizing your human potential is a profound journey of self-discovery and growth, transcending mere achievement to encompass the fullest expression of who you are. It is fueled by passion, determination, and a belief in your abilities, and involves constant learning, growth, and self-improvement. 

    Dr. Pamela Cantor, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, author, and thought leader on human potential, sheds light on this transformative journey, highlighting the importance of human connection, trusting relationships and the brain’s capacity to rewire in unlocking human potential. Although challenges and setbacks can occur, Pam emphasizes that they can also serve as opportunities for growth and learning, which can propel us toward our fullest potential.

    In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Pam to delve deep into the essence of self-actualization and offer valuable guidance for unlocking the boundless possibilities that lie within each of us. During the discussion, Pam will also share insights from her own experiences and professional expertise, shedding light on how challenges can serve as opportunities for growth and learning. 

    Topics include:

    Tough moments as sources of strengths and resilience

    Dr. Cantor reflects on the challenges of motherhood and parenting

    The biological basis of the potential for growth and development in each individual

    The influence of experiences, relationships, and environments in shaping one’s potential - epigenetics.

    The impact of childhood trauma on personal development. Trauma is not destiny. 

    Building trust and connection as a therapist, parent or adult in a child’s lifeThe significance of listening to children and creating an environment of trust

    Efforts to build a movement across the country to harness the potential in each person

    And other topics…


    Connect with Pam:
    Website: https://www.pamelacantormd.com/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-cantor-md
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/drpamelacantor/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelacantormd 
    Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/all-kids-thriving 
    Book: https://www.cambridge.org/core/elements/abs/wholechild-development-learning-and-thriving/67237E6CA30DAD7D1707057EEFD3E8D0 

    Connect with Darius:
    Website: https://therealdarius.com/
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/
    YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube
    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

    • 1 hr 6 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
958 Ratings

958 Ratings

A Greenstein ,

Darius!

Amazing podcast!!!!! Brilliant

mvelasco07 ,

Highly recommend!

I recently discovered The Greatness Machine and I’m so glad I did! I’m consistently impressed by the engaging conversations, insightful content, and actionable ideas. I truly learn something every time I listen. Thanks so much Darius for putting out such an incredible podcast. Keep up the great work!

Rick1isho! ,

Listen & GROW

If you want to grow in life and learn from a bunch of experts in a way that is easy and entertaining then this is the podcast for you!

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