What if the setbacks in your life were actually the secret fuel for your success?

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Shadé Zahrai, award-winning leadership strategist, TEDx speaker, and co-founder of Influenceo Global. Shadé shares her journey from law and corporate consulting to entrepreneurship, revealing how resilience, storytelling, and authenticity helped her build a global brand. She explains the power of reframing challenges, why self-belief is the foundation of success, and how leaders can inspire teams through emotional intelligence.

From navigating uncertainty to building confidence through action, Shadé offers practical strategies for leading with influence and connecting on a deeper human level. This is a powerful conversation about courage, growth, and leading with heart.

In this episode, Darius and Shade will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(02:49) Shadé's Origin Story

(05:54) The Journey Through Corporate Life

(08:41) The Importance of Self-Trust

(11:28) Transitioning to Entrepreneurship

(14:38) Building a Personal Brand on Social Media

(17:28) The Power of Visibility and Opportunity

(20:14) The Role of Creative Outlets

(23:20) Overcoming Adversity and Failure

(26:18) The Science of Self-Doubt and Trust

(28:50) The Launch of Influenceo and LinkedIn Success

(31:45) The Big Trust Community and Book Launch

(34:48) Final Thoughts and The Greatness Question

Shadé Zahrai is a behavioral strategist, peak performance educator, and co-lead of Influenceo Global. A former lawyer with an MBA and PhD in organizational behavior, she advises Fortune 500 companies on leadership, performance, and career fulfillment. Her viral content has reached over 300 million views, she teaches more than 7 million students on LinkedIn Learning, and her TEDx talks have inspired audiences worldwide. Featured in outlets like The New York Times and Fast Company, Shadé is dedicated to making high-performance strategies accessible to all.

Sponsored by:

Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription.

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.

Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.

Connect with Shadé:

Website: https://www.shadezahrai.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://th.linkedin.com/in/shadezahrai 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadezahrai/ 

Book: https://www.shadezahrai.com/bigtrust 

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

What makes you wealthy? 

In a world where success often takes center stage, we tend to equate wealth solely with the size of our bank account. But what if true wealth transcends monetary success?

What if it encompasses something much deeper and more fulfilling?

Robin Sharma, renowned author and leadership expert, challenges us to redefine our understanding of wealth in The Wealth Money Can’t Buy: The 8 Hidden Habits to Live Your Richest Life. Through his latest book, he introduces the hidden forms of wealth that extend beyond money which he said are essential components of a rich and fulfilling life.

Drawing from his years of experience as a leadership expert, Robin shares practical strategies and profound wisdom to help readers live their richest lives. 

This episode of The Greatness Machine will explore the deeper dimension of wealth to help the audience unlock a newfound sense of purpose, fulfillment, and abundance beyond financial measures. 

Topics include:

Robin discusses the concept of wealth beyond financial success

The importance of introspection and finding inner peace

The significance of processing emotions to achieve productivity and fulfillment

Robin recounts humble beginnings and shift from being a successful lawyer to becoming a thought leader

Robin introduces eight form of wealth and their contribution to a fulfilling life beyond monetary success

The value of personal development and inner growth in achieving outer success

Robin talks about the concept of the Virtuoso Algorithm

Finding solitude to unleash creativity and achieve mastery

Recognizing and overcoming limiting beliefs to achieve financial wealth and success

Robin explains the importance of generosity as a business strategy

Surrounding oneself with the right people and building strong relationships

And other topics…

Sponsored by:

Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription.

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.

Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.

Connect with Robin:

Website: https://www.robinsharma.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinsharma/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6oh54zIYKyW6hgBiZzLLsA 

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Wealth-Money-Cant-Buy-Richest/dp/059379849X 

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

What if the key to clarity was just five minutes of stillness?

In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh reflects on purpose, priorities, and the practices that help him gain direction during life transitions. Inspired by a workshop with his friend and spiritual teacher Dandapani, Darius shares a simple but powerful exercise: taking just five minutes each day to sit in silence and ask, “What do I want out of life?”

He opens up about his own process, exploring the feelings he wants to cultivate, the kind of family and professional life he’s building, and why recognition, influence, and freedom play important roles in shaping his next big chapter.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Personal Updates

(02:55) Exploring Purpose and Focus

(05:49) Daily Reflection for Clarity

(08:43) Defining Life Goals and Values

(11:57) Balancing Professional and Personal Life

(14:49) Engagement and Recognition in Work

(17:53) Establishing Priorities for the Future

Sponsored by:

Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription.

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.

Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.

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

How do you keep moving forward when life changes in an instant?

Joining us on The Greatness Machine, Amy Purdy shares how she’s faced more than her share of challenges, losing both legs at 19, battling a life-threatening infection, and navigating the emotional aftermath. But instead of letting adversity define her, Amy used it as fuel to dream bigger. From becoming a Paralympic medalist and “Dancing with the Stars” finalist to inspiring millions as a speaker and author, she reveals the mindset shifts, resilience tools, and moments of grace that helped her create an extraordinary life on her own terms.

In this episode, Darius and Amy will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(02:59) Amy's Life-Altering Experience

(05:49) Finding Resilience and Grit

(08:32) The Journey of Recovery and Acceptance

(11:20) Surrendering to the Moment

(14:14) The Near-Death Experience

(17:00) The Decision to Live

(19:47) Setting Goals After Amputation

(22:32) Snowboarding Again

(25:12) Creating Adaptive Equipment

(28:16) Building a Community

(31:04) The Road to the Paralympics

(33:56) Dancing with the Stars Experience

(36:49) Lessons Learned from Challenges

(39:31) Future Aspirations and Projects

Amy Purdy is a Paralympic snowboarder, bestselling author, and motivational speaker who has inspired millions with her story of resilience. After losing both legs to bacterial meningitis at 19, she returned to snowboarding just seven months later, ultimately earning a bronze medal at the 2014 Sochi Paralympics and a silver at the 2018 PyeongChang Games. Co-founder of Adaptive Action Sports and runner-up on “Dancing with the Stars,” Amy empowers audiences worldwide to embrace challenges and live without limits.

Sponsored by:

Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription.

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius.

Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness.

Connect with Amy:

Website: https://amypurdy.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amypurdygurl/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmyPurdyGurl/ 

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

Have you ever felt like you're hiding behind a facade of expectations and perceptions, concealing your true identity?

Jen Gottlieb knows that feeling all too well. From being a gym trainer to becoming a powerhouse entrepreneur, she has lived the transformation of shedding societal masks and embracing authenticity. Drawing from her personal experiences, Jen unveils the power of finding your voice, building your brand, and living your dream through her book BE SEEN. 

From the days of feeling invisible as a gym trainer to the moment she stepped into her authentic self as a thriving entrepreneur, Jen reveals how she broke free from the confines of conformity, ventured into the unknown of entrepreneurship, and carved her path to success. 

This episode of The Greatness Machine is all about uncovering the moments of vulnerability, the triumphs of self-discovery, and the evolution from hiding to shining. 

Topics include:

Jen looks back at how her entrepreneurial journey started

Co-founding Super Connector Media and helping brands online

Jen talks about the lessons she learned from acting and being in musical theater

The importance of taking action and how it organizes one’s path towards their goals

Jen explains the difference between “creation” and “manifestation”

Jen discusses the concept of the “Rule of 51%” 

Experiencing imposter syndrome and why you need to embrace it

Embracing the fluctuations in confidence and emotions

Overcoming fear and embracing the unknown

The benefits of committing to small steps to achieve significant shifts in mindset

Jen talks about her newest book “Be Seen”

And other topics…

Connect with Jen:

Website: https://jengottlieb.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jengottlieb

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_gottlieb/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jenleahgottlieb/ 

Book:https://www.amazon.com/BE-SEEN-Voice-Brand-Dream/dp/1401972586 

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

When life’s highs feel incredible and the lows feel unbearable, how can we stay grounded and keep perspective?

It is easy to get swept away by the extremes of life. When things are going well, everything feels incredible; when they are tough, it can feel like they will never improve. But what if there is a way to find balance, staying steady through both the highs and the lows? 

Today, I am flying solo to talk about the timeless wisdom that things are rarely as good or as bad as they seem. Drawing from my personal experience, I will dive into the importance of staying grounded, embracing a balanced perspective, and finding a steady path through life’s unpredictable journey. 

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, you will learn some personal insights, practical techniques, and mindset shifts that have helped me and countless others maintain focus and peace amidst both success and struggle. 

Topics include:

Embracing both highs and lows without attachment to specific outcomes

Shifting focus from fearing loss to appreciating the present

Finding balance and openness to change for a deeper sense of appreciation

Living with an awareness of mortality

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. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Money isn’t just about math, it’s about mindset.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Jaspreet Singh, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Minority Mindset, to break down the rules of money, investing, and wealth-building. Jaspreet shares why the wealthy treat taxes as a playbook, how to prepare for recessions and inflation, and why owning real assets like real estate, gold, and Bitcoin is key. He also opens up about the cultural lessons that shaped his financial mindset and the importance of being bold enough to figure things out.

Whether you’re an investor or entrepreneur, this conversation will give you clarity and courage to play the money game wisely.

In this episode, Darius and Jaspreet will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Money and Financial Education

(02:51) Jaspreet Singh's Origin Story

(05:52) Transitioning from Medicine to Money

(08:33) The Rise of Minority Mindset

(11:31) Navigating the Current Economic Landscape

(14:36) Investment Strategies for the Average Person

(17:25) Understanding Risk and Active Investing

(20:07) The Tulip Mania and Investment Lessons

(23:02) Crypto: Store of Value or Speculative Asset?

(26:36) Building a Portfolio of Cash Flowing Assets

(36:46) Understanding Economic Trends and Predictions

(42:53) Investing Strategies in Uncertain Times

(47:09) Overcoming Barriers to Success

Jaspreet Singh is the #1 ranked financial influencer and founder of the popular Minority Mindset YouTube channel, with over 2 million subscribers. He is also the creator of Briefs Media, a platform offering newsletters and courses that simplify complex financial topics for everyday investors. Recognized as Benzinga’s Top Financial Influencer of 2021, Jaspreet has been featured on leading podcasts hosted by Lewis Howes, Tom Bilyeu, Steven Bartlett, and Jay Shetty. His commitment to clarity and integrity in financial education has made him a trusted voice for millions.

Connect with Jaspreet:

Newsletter: https://briefs.co/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaspreet-singh-6930a649/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeofpaaji/ 

Twitter: https://x.com/minoritym1ndset/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/MinorityMindset 

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

How can we tap into the latent leadership qualities that reside within us, waiting to be cultivated and utilized to their fullest extent?

As leadership is viewed as a rare quality possessed by only a select few, it's easy to overlook each individual's potential for leadership. Leadership, however, is not exclusively a skill that a privileged few possess. It can be cultivated and developed by anyone willing to work for it.

Warren Rustand, whose illustrious career spans leadership roles in the White House, executive positions in multi-billion dollar corporations, and successful entrepreneurial ventures, shares profound insights into the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. He highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing one’s innate leadership potential, emphasizing the transformative power of stepping into one’s leadership role, even in the face of adversity or uncertainty.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Warren Rustand to talk about the need to acknowledge and cultivate our latent leadership qualities. The discussion will also explore the critical importance of finding the right space – whether in business, personal life, or relationships – and the transformative power that comes from making intentional changes. 

Topics include:

The importance of perseverance and determination in pursuing goals

Warren highlights the significance of family and relationships in his life

What Warren learned during his time in the White House

Why it matters to engage in high-quality conversations to attain success

Warren shares three fundamental principles essential for achieving greatness 

The benefits of being in the right environment in order to grow and succeed

Warren highlights the power of clarity of vision

And other topics…

Connect with Warren:

Website: https://warrenrustand.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-rustand-8a9b026/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WarrenSRustand/ 

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

Life and business are shaped by power and influence.

They are essential forces that drive decision-making, build connections, and create lasting impact. Understanding how to wield these forces effectively can be the key to unlocking opportunities and driving meaningful change.

Today, I am flying solo to talk about the dynamics of power and influence–what they are, how they work, and how you can harness them to elevate both your personal and professional life. 

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will break down the nuances of power, explore the psychology of influence, and share actionable strategies for building authentic authority. Join me as we dive into the essentials of mastering power and influence to create a lasting impact in the world.

Topics include:

The distinction between power and influence

Darius explores the choice between being “rich” or being “king”

How recruiting industry experts can drive business growth

The importance of self-leadership before leading others

And other topics…

Sponsored by:

Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.

Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. 

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. 

Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness. 

[DISCLAIMER:

*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]

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

What does it take to reinvent yourself while staying true to who you are?

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, actress, writer, and entrepreneur Michelle Argyris opens up about her extraordinary path, from the world of acting to launching Windtuition Wellness. She shares how her experiences in the entertainment industry shaped her perspective on resilience, creativity, and the importance of listening to your inner compass. Michelle also discusses the courage it takes to pivot, the discipline required to chase big dreams, and why building practices that nurture both mind and body is essential for long-term success. 

In this episode, Darius and Michelle will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Michelle Argyris

(01:27) Michelle's Origin Story and Journey

(07:05) Overcoming Rejection in the Entertainment Industry

(11:08) The Importance of Supporting Dreams

(12:57) Cultural Adaptation in LA

(15:07) Intuition and Inner Knowing

(20:15) The Power of the Subconscious Mind

(22:45) Integrating Heart and Mind in Business

(24:05) Creating a Safe Work Environment

(27:15) From Acting to Wellness: A Personal Journey

(35:38) The Transformative Power of Psychedelics

(41:42) Integration and Transformation through Experience

(43:03) The Healing Power of Psychedelics

(45:53) Transitioning to Wind Tuition Wellness

(47:11) Breathwork: A Path to Healing

(48:53) Exploring Psychic Mediumship

(57:08) Personal Insights and Reflections

(57:52) Empowering Women through SheCode

(59:28) Creating Impact in Business and Life

Michelle Argyris is a Canadian actress, entrepreneur, and holistic wellness practitioner. A former elite athlete turned actress, she has starred in films and TV series including General Hospital, Shadowhunters, and several Lifetime movies. Beyond her entertainment career, she is the founder of Windtuition Wellness, where she guides high-achieving women through breathwork, energy healing, and embodiment practices. Drawing from her own journey of resilience and self-discovery, Michelle helps others reconnect with their intuition, embrace balance, and step into their fullest selves.

Sponsored by:

Constant Contact: Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at constantcontact.com.

Express VPN: Secure your online data today with ExpressVPN. Go to expressvpn.com/darius.

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. 

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. 

Jerry: Save $1,300/year on car insurance with Jerry at Jerry.ai/greatness. 

[DISCLAIMER:

*Based on drivers who switched and saved with Jerry over the past twelve months.  Over 20% of drivers who switched with Jerry found a monthly premium of $87 or less. Not all drivers find savings.]

Connect with Michelle:

Website: https://www.windtuitionwellness.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle_argyris/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.argyris/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_argyris 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MichelleArgyris 

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