Advertise on podcast: The Greatness Machine

Do you often find yourself thinking about the “what ifs” of life? Are you someone who worries about the worst things that could happen? If you are, then you are probably wondering if there are ways to stop these negative thoughts from filling your mind. The good news is that there are tools, habits, and strategies that can help you avoid anxiety spirals.  Today, I am flying solo to share something very personal to me; my journey of dealing with and overcoming chronic worrying and anxiety.  Growing up in a complicated environment, I had to strive to achieve things and become a good example constantly. The unrealistic expectations later resulted in me becoming an anxious perfectionist.  In the first part of this mini-series, I will talk about how I dealt with anxiety as a kid until I reached adulthood. I will also walk you through the strategies and tools that helped me avoid having thinking errors and anxious thoughts.  Topics include: Experiencing anxiety disorder at such a young age How I coped with anxiety as a teen and young adult Defense mechanisms I used for anxiety as an adult What my therapist asked me to do to track my anxiety What I learned after writing a list of 100 things I was worried about How awareness helped me overcome my anxiety 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.

In the newest episode of The Greatness Machine, host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Elise Hu, host of TED Talks Daily and award-winning international journalist, for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolving media landscape, beauty standards in South Korea, the power of following your passions, and what it truly means to pursue greatness. Elise shares her journey from a childhood dream of journalism to becoming one of NPR's international correspondents, an independent creator, a published author, and the voice of one of the world's most popular idea-driven podcasts. Along the way, Darius shares a personal and touching story about the late TEDx speaker Scott Dinsmore, illustrating how following your soul, even when it makes no financial sense, can ripple outward in extraordinary ways. In this episode, Darius and Elise will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Elise Hu (02:08) Elise's Journey into Journalism (05:59) The Evolution of Journalism and Media Integrity (11:46) Navigating the Changing Landscape of News Consumption (18:03) Elise's Career Path and Transition to Independence (22:57) Exploring Beauty Standards and Cultural Expectations (30:09) Exploring Personal Experiences and Research (31:10) The Journey to TEDx and Passion Projects (33:21) The Impact of TED Talks on Personal Growth (35:27) Transitioning to TED Talks Daily (37:43) Format and Purpose of TED Talks Daily (40:24) Favorite TED Talks and Their Influence (44:34) The Story of Scott Dinsmore and Living Your Legend (49:46) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Elise Hu is a Los Angeles-based journalist, podcast host, and media entrepreneur who hosts TED Talks Daily. A former NPR international correspondent and VICE News Tonight correspondent, she has reported from more than a dozen countries and helped launch The Texas Tribune. She is the author of “Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital,” a Porchlight Business Book Award winner. Elise is also the co-founder of Reasonable Volume, an award-winning podcast production company, and a mother of three. Connect with Elise: Website: https://elisehu.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisewho/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elise-hu/  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.

What if doing the most good was simpler—and more within reach—than you ever imagined? In this powerful episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by world-renowned moral philosopher Peter Singer for a conversation that will challenge how you think about ethics, generosity, and your role in making the world better. Peter, best known for his groundbreaking work “The Life You Can Save,” shares thought-provoking insights on effective altruism, the moral obligations of those living in affluence, and how small, intentional actions can create ripple effects of real change. From fighting global poverty to advocating for animal rights, Peter’s work has inspired millions to rethink their impact—and today, he might just do the same for you. In this episode, Darius and Peter will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Effective Altruism (06:11) Understanding Effective Altruism (11:57) The Life You Can Save: A Nonprofit Overview (18:05) Philanthropy and Meaning in Life (23:55) Profit for Good: Business and Altruism (24:54) Profit for Good Conference: A New Business Paradigm (30:01) The Role of Bioethics in Modern Society (37:32) Activism and Personal Motivation in Ethical Issues (38:35) Reflections on Global Issues: Past and Present (41:42) Making a Difference: Individual Impact and Career Choices (47:07) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Peter Singer is an Australian moral philosopher known for his work in applied ethics from a utilitarian perspective. He is Emeritus Professor of Bioethics at Princeton University and author of Animal Liberation and the influential essay “Famine, Affluence, and Morality.” Singer has shifted from preference to hedonistic utilitarianism over his career. He founded Monash University’s Centre for Human Bioethics, co-founded Animals Australia, and established the nonprofit The Life You Can Save. Recognized as Australian Humanist of the Year in 2004, he is considered one of Australia’s most influential public intellectuals. Connect with Peter: Website: https://www.petersinger.info/ Website: http://thelifeyoucansave.org/  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ee/podcast/lives-well-lived/id1743702376  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.

How do you make time for the things you want to do when you have too much on your plate? Most of us, if not all, wish there were more hours in a day to grind and make time for what brings us joy. Any business owner or entrepreneur can attest to that. Finding a balance between work and life is easier said than done. But when done right, it can make the impossible possible. Today, I am flying solo to share a few tips on how I managed to surpass my goal of reading 22 books this year with three months to spare. In this episode, I will talk about the benefits of habit stacking and how it helped me learn to multitask while reading. I will also share the secret on how a busy entrepreneur like myself finds more time to read and what tools helped me to become a book athlete. Topics include: The benefits of building good habits Expert tips to reading more books in a year How I learned to multitask while reading The importance of narrator choice in audiobooks Pros and cons of reading multiple books at once Effective note-taking from reading Apps that helped me increase my reading My reading goal for 2023 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.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Tegan Broadwater, founder of Tactical Systems Network and former Fort Worth Police Department officer. Tegan shares one of the most unconventional origin stories in law enforcement, trading a career as a professional touring musician for a badge, then risking his life for nearly two years undercover infiltrating a Crips gang network in Fort Worth's most dangerous neighborhood.  Known as Operation Fishbowl, Tegan's deep cover operation resulted in the arrest of 51 gang members, fundamentally transforming a violence-ravaged community. The conversation explores the surprising humanity Tegan discovered inside gang culture, the emotional toll of watching defendants he had grown to care about face decades in prison, and the sobering realization that 104 children were left parentless in the operation's wake. Tegan also opens up about his transition into entrepreneurship, launching a high-end armed security and protection firm just months before the 2008 financial crisis, and shares candid insights on building a culture of excellence in an era of declining workforce standards. In this episode, Darius and Tegan will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Technical Challenges (02:06) Tegan's Dynamic Background and Transition to Law Enforcement (09:57) Operation Fishbowl: Infiltrating the Crips (19:49) Understanding Gang Culture and the Human Side of Criminals (29:59) The Aftermath: Consequences of Arrests and the Need for Change (32:03) The Impact of Undercover Work on Communities (33:59) Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Entrepreneurship (37:02) Building a Security Business from the Ground Up (40:07) Challenges in Hiring and Maintaining Standards (47:00) Understanding Client Motivations for Security Services (52:07) Navigating Risks and Client Relationships (58:02) Reflections on Success and the Nature of Greatness Tegan Broadwater is a former Fort Worth police officer, deep undercover investigator, author, and entrepreneur. During his 13-year law enforcement career, he worked in Narcotics, Gang, Homicide, and the FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force, serving more than 500 high-risk search warrants. He led Operation Fishbowl, a nearly two-year undercover investigation that resulted in 51 violent gang members being sent to prison and earned him multiple honors. Today, Tegan is the founder of Tactical Systems Network, a security, protection, and investigation firm, as well as an author, musician, and podcast host. Connect with Tegan: Website: https://teganbroadwater.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tegan-broadwater-8b9796b  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsFQxAbrioMB2afARtl7MSg  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.

What if you could build million-dollar businesses and actually enjoy your life? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Shaahin Cheyene — entrepreneur, author, and founder of PodcastCola — for a conversation packed with insights and energy. They dive into Shaahin’s journey from launching groundbreaking products to helping others grow their influence through podcasting. Along the way, they explore what it really takes to scale successfully, why self-belief is your greatest asset, and how Shaahin is helping others break into Amazon selling — with a special gift just for listeners. You won't want to miss this one! In this episode, Darius and Shaahin will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction (05:28) Shaahin's Origin Story (17:37) The Rise of Herbal Ecstasy (22:02) Challenges and Government Regulations (24:03) From Billion Dollar Businesses to Vaping Innovations (26:25) Crazy Stories from the Business World (30:03) The Insanity of Cash-Based Operations (32:47) Cultural Background and Family Expectations (36:46) Finding Your Own Path to Success (39:04) The Balance of Ruthlessness and Kindness (44:16) Current Projects and Future Aspirations Shaahin Cheyene is an award-winning entrepreneur, Amazon expert, inventor, author, and filmmaker based in Los Angeles, California. Born in Iran, Shaahin launched his entrepreneurial journey at just 15 years old with the creation of Herbal Ecstasy, the smart drug that ignited a global movement. Over the last 30 years, he has built a career spanning more than a billion dollars in revenue. As CEO and Chairman of Accelerated Intelligence, Shaahin helps brand owners scale their online sales across Amazon, eBay, Shopify, and Walmart. He’s also the founder of PodcastCola, the world’s largest podcast agency, and the creator of Amazon Mastery, a course designed to help others succeed on Amazon. Today, Shaahin continues to mentor rising entrepreneurs while leading a thriving business empire from his home in Venice Beach, California. Connect with Shaahin: Website: https://www.shaahincheyenne.com/ Website: https://podcastcola.com/ Website: https://viralmirage.com/  Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaahincheyene  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.

Success does not necessarily equate to happiness and contentment. We often think that it is by grinding day in and day out that we would find fulfillment. Most of us think of happiness as a destination, one that we can only truly experience when we reach a certain level in our job or hit a certain number in our business.  Unfortunately, that is not the case. While it can be rewarding to achieve our goals, it is also true that sometimes success will only give us momentary happiness before it leaves us feeling empty. Today, I am flying solo to talk about that one special event that opened my eyes to the importance of cultivating gratitude and what it means to lead a fulfilling life.  In this episode, I will share what it means to have a competitive attitude and why healthy competition is essential as we work on our dreams. I will also discuss passion as an essential key to achieving professional goals.  Topics include: Why it matters to be passionate about your work What TEDx taught me about passion and gratitude The impact and importance of gratitude The difference between healthy and unhealthy competition What your priorities say about you 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.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with George Barrios, entrepreneur, investor, and former Co-President of WWE, for a wide-ranging conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the power of contrarian thinking. George shares his remarkable origin story as the son of Cuban immigrants who fled Castro's regime, his self-described journey as a "talented f**k-up," and how he went from a 0.6 GPA freshman to the boardroom of one of the world's most recognized entertainment brands. The conversation dives deep into how George and his business partner Michelle Wilson identified a massively undervalued asset in WWE, rebuilt it from the inside out, and ultimately engineered a $20 billion merger between WWE and UFC — the largest sports deal in history.  In this episode, Darius and George will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to George Barrios (03:04) George's Origin Story (06:05) Family Background and Early Influences (08:56) Education Journey and Challenges (11:57) Cultural Heritage and Family Values (15:12) Reflections on Parenting and Education (18:01) Transition to Corporate World and WWE (20:51) The Accidental CFO Journey (22:48) Discovering WWE: A Surprising Opportunity (25:10) Overcoming Doubts: The WWE Reputation Challenge (28:51) Transforming WWE: Insights and Strategies (33:33) Co-Leadership Dynamics: George and Michelle's Partnership (39:04) Unlocking Value: The Economics of Wrestling (42:41) Building the Future: Lessons from WWE's Success George Barrios is a business leader, investor, and operator at the intersection of sports, media, and technology. He is Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Isos Capital and an investor and director with Global Sport Group. He previously served as Co-President and Board Member of WWE, helping expand the company’s digital, global, and direct-to-consumer businesses and leading its merger with UFC to form TKO Group. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles at The New York Times Company, Time Warner, HBO, and Praxair. A first-generation Cuban American raised in Queens, George holds an MBA from the University of Connecticut and is the author of “Sometimes Wrong But Never in Doubt”. Connect with George: Website: https://georgebarrios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgebarrios/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1510786554  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.

What does it take to bring down a global drug empire—without losing your life or your soul in the process? In this gripping episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with legendary undercover agent Robert Mazur, whose covert work infiltrated some of the world’s most dangerous drug cartels. From near-death encounters and million-dollar stings to the emotional cost of living a double life, Robert shares jaw-dropping stories straight from his time posing as a high-level money launderer. In this episode, Darius and Robert will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Robert Mazur (02:30) Robert's Journey to Undercover Work (06:02) The Medellin Cartel Operation (12:29) The Complexity of Money Laundering (20:04) The Demand Side of Drug Abuse (24:06) Hollywood vs. Reality in Drug Trafficking (26:46) The Balancing Act of Undercover Work (29:25) Addiction to Information and Success (38:27) The Toll of Undercover Life on Family (42:35) Service to Country and Personal Sacrifice (44:34) Books, Movies, and Continuing the Mission (49:01) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Robert Mazur is a former U.S. federal undercover agent and one of the world’s leading experts on money laundering and financial crime. Posing as a mob-connected money launderer, he infiltrated drug cartels and corrupt global banks—work that led to major arrests and a $500,000 bounty on his head. He’s the New York Times bestselling author of The Infiltrator, which inspired the film starring Bryan Cranston. Today, Robert uses his deep insider knowledge to help businesses and governments better understand and combat financial crime. Connect with Robert: Website: https://www.robertmazur.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertMazurOfficial/  Twitter: https://x.com/robertmazur/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Infiltrator-Against-Biggest-Cartel-History-ebook/dp/B002JCJ6S4  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  Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

Where we spend our time represents what we actually care about, regardless of what we say our goals and priorities are. Prioritizing helps you decide what you need to do, what you don’t need to do, and when you should focus. Priorities are concerns, interests, or desires that come before anything else. But what does your life look like according to your priorities?  Unfortunately, when the thin line between need and want gets blurred, we often get carried away and forget the things that matter most in life. We go from place to place, switch after one task and another, and get lost in the cycle of busyness. Today, I am flying solo to share my personal realization about the importance of setting priorities and how to do it when everything feels important. In this episode, I will talk about how I reached my goal for this year and what I plan to achieve in 2023. I will also discuss how goal-setting, prioritizing, and time-blocking can help one achieve success in both life and work. Topics include: How to set your top priorities in life What made me reassess my priorities Why it is important to make time for yourself Aligning priorities with core values What I did to hit my goal of reading 22 books this year What my goal is for 2023 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.

In this compelling episode of The Greatness Machine, host Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Sterling Griffin, former pastor, entrepreneur, actor, writer, director, and producer, to discuss his remarkable journey from homelessness to millionaire, and his latest ambitious project: “Faith,” an original TV series he describes as "Ted Lasso and The Office having a baby inside a church." Sterling shares the deeply personal spiritual crisis that inspired the show, the entrepreneurial mindset he applied to break into Hollywood, and why he believes proximity and creativity are the ultimate shortcuts to success. In this episode, Darius and Sterling will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Background (06:00) Sterling's Journey from Homelessness to Success (20:00) The Birth of the TV Show 'Faith' (26:55) Creating a TV Show: The Process and Lessons Learned (35:07) The Art of Rewriting Scripts (38:01) Building Creative Habits (42:42) The Journey of Creating a Show (52:27) The Economics of Content Creation (58:38) Proximity is Power: Building Connections Sterling Griffin is an entrepreneur, investor, actor, and producer who has built an unconventional career spanning ministry, business, and entertainment. After several years as a Christian evangelical pastor, Sterling transitioned into entrepreneurship, eventually building and exiting a multi-seven-figure business. He later founded Sterling Capital, where he focuses on alternative investments and commercial real estate. Today, he is also active in film as an actor and producer, with credits including “Mafia Wars” and “Devil’s Peak”. Connect with Sterling: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sterlinggriffin/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Sterling/  Email: [email protected] 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.

How do you really know if someone is the right fit for your team—or your company’s future? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Dr. Geoff Smart, founder of GH Smart and author of the bestselling book Who, to break down what separates successful hiring from costly mistakes. Geoff reveals the power of evidence-based assessments, why psych tests often fall short, and how intense curiosity—not stress—is the key to unlocking a candidate's true potential. From helping Fortune 500 companies select CEOs to coaching emerging leaders, Geoff shares stories, strategies, and myths about the hiring process—plus, why the "sell me this pen" test is just bad business. In this episode, Darius and Geoff will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Geoff Smart and His Journey (02:55) The Importance of Hiring and Core Values (06:08) Geoff's Origin Story and Founding GH Smart (09:00) Cultural Fit and Hiring Process (11:55) The Role of Core Values in Business (14:52) Firing with Respect and Responsibility (18:05) A Players vs. B Players in Hiring (20:54) Adapting to Different Stages of Business Growth (30:05) Identifying A-Players for Growth (34:02) The Importance of Leadership in Organizations (40:25) Effective Interview Techniques (43:00) Assessing CEOs and Leadership Roles (48:44) Onboarding and Post-Hiring Strategies (55:20) Overcoming Fear of Failure Dr. Geoff Smart is the chairman and founder of ghSMART, a leadership advisory firm that helps CEOs, entrepreneurs, and public-sector leaders build high-performing teams. Founded in 1995, ghSMART is recognized for its rigorous hiring methods, impactful leadership development, and a culture of excellence. The firm has topped Glassdoor and Vault rankings and published several bestselling books, including “Who: The A Method for Hiring”. Geoff holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and was mentored by management legend Peter Drucker. Beyond business, he’s committed to public service and leadership development through programs like the Colorado Governors Fellowship and his work with CiviCo. Connect with Geoff: Website: https://geoffsmart.com/  Website: https://ghsmart.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drgeoffsmart/  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.

What’s holding you back? What’s stopping you from achieving the life you have always wanted? Unfortunately, many people experience regret for the things they never did. Perhaps they rejected a wonderful job offer, passed up an opportunity to expand their business, or missed the chance to travel the world.  While there are plenty of reasons for missed opportunities, choosing to live a life in a box is what stops most people from dreaming big dreams.  Today, I am flying solo to talk about how constraints and limitations affect our way of life, how we see ourselves, and how they hold us back from becoming the best version of ourselves. I will also talk about my personal journey of finding success after removing the constraints I previously put around myself.  In this episode, I will discuss the benefits of having a no-constraints mindset and how it taught me to raise the bar higher every time I reach a goal without beating myself up.  Topics include: Breaking free from constraints The one thing that stops people from reaching their full potential The effects of having a no-constraints mindset What I achieved when I started living without constraints The two things I put no constraints around 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.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Mark Parrott, a 28-year veteran of the financial services industry, five-time author, and researcher who has taught more than 27,000 CEOs across the United States and Canada. Drawing on evolutionary psychology, demographic data, and behavioral economics, Mark explores how human nature shapes economic trends, political polarization, and business decision-making. The conversation dives into population decline, the economic significance of the 50-year-old demographic, gender differences in the workplace, immigration policy, and the ways understanding human behavior can help leaders become more effective. Mark also shares insights into the human wiring behind our behaviors and how understanding it can lead to stronger leadership, better business decisions, and even stronger marriages. In this episode, Darius and Mark will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Mark Parrott and his expertise (04:01) Understanding human nature through evolutionary psychology (08:06) The impact of age, especially 50-year-olds, on economies (11:53) Fertility rates and their long-term economic implications (17:50) Predicting societal shifts through evolutionary instincts (21:46) Gender differences in risk, work, and mortality (24:00) The role of genetics and environment in behavior (25:50) How to analyze and predict future market trends (28:00) The importance of strategic planning and data analysis (32:02) Case study: Customizing products based on demographic insights (33:58) Pivot strategies for relevance in changing markets (36:06) The value of understanding cultural and demographic shifts (37:58) The importance of investigation mode in decision-making (39:58) Overcoming political biases with data and research (42:01) The differences between men and women in perception and behavior (44:53) Closing thoughts and how to connect with Mark Mark Parrott is a 28-year financial services veteran specializing in retirement planning, mergers and acquisitions, and coaching CEOs of privately held businesses. As a Certified Mergers and Acquisition Advisor (CM&AA), Mark brings extensive expertise in helping individuals and business leaders navigate complex financial decisions, improve business performance, and maximize their wealth. Connect with Mark: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/businessownercoach/  Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B078S97WGD/allbooks  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.

In a world increasingly dominated by technology and disconnected from nature, this episode offers a much-needed perspective on the urgent need for spiritual awakening and holistic healing.  In this enlightening episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with renowned holistic health expert and spiritual teacher Paul Chek to explore the deep intersection of technology, consciousness, and the human spirit. Paul opens up about the transformative role of artificial intelligence, plant medicine, and the forgotten wisdom of nature in today’s world. In this episode, Darius and Paul will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Paul Chek and His Work (02:10) Paul Chek's Origin Story (18:18) The Four Doctors of Health (27:39) Practical Health Principles for Everyone (32:55) Aligning Exercise with Your Dreams (36:01) The Four Doctors and Decision Making (39:04) The Renaissance of Plant Medicine (44:52) Plant Medicine vs. Artificial Intelligence (57:12) Taking Ownership of Your Life Paul Chek is a world-renowned expert in corrective and high-performance exercise kinesiology, stress management, and holistic wellness. With over 40 years of experience, Paul has transformed countless lives through his integrated, root-cause approach to health and performance. He is the founder of the CHEK Institute, creator of Spirit Gym, and host of the Spirit Gym with Paul Chek podcast. A prolific author and educator, Paul continues to shape the future of integrative lifestyle management worldwide. Connect with Paul: Website: https://chekinstitute.com/  Website: https://paulchek.com/  Website: https://www.myspiritgym.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2Y7Tgj2RR6Z5zxZZYYWoKg  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.