What if the key to overcoming fear wasn’t avoiding worst-case scenarios, but facing them head-on with a simple yet powerful mental shift? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and the practice of Premeditatio Malorum—the premeditation of potential misfortunes. He shares a personal story of navigating a high-stress business crisis and how working with a cognitive behavioral therapist led him to the transformative "And Then" exercise. Discover how this mindset shift can help you break free from anxiety, regain control, and embrace resilience in the face of uncertainty.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Exploring Stoicism and Premeditatio Malorum

(11:48) Resilience and the Journey of Starting Over

(18:14) Embracing Risk and the Sweet Juice of Life

Sponsored by:

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.

Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

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. 

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

What if your mind could be read in an instant, and every thought you had was predicted before you even spoke it? In this episode, Wayne Hoffman, a master mentalist, takes us behind the curtain to explore the mysterious art of reading minds and influencing thoughts. From his groundbreaking performances to his insights into overcoming fear and embracing rejection, Wayne shares how the ability to control perception has shaped his career and personal growth. He also reveals why embracing the word "no" is key to unlocking greatness in both life and business. 

In this episode, Darius and Wayne will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Wayne Hoffman

(03:04) Wayne's Origin Story

(05:51) The Journey of a Mentalist

(08:57) The Importance of Passion in Show Business

(11:47) Overcoming Adversity and Naysayers

(15:06) The Power of Collecting No's

(17:54) Setting Specific Goals for Success

(20:48) The Coin Analogy: Yes and No

(24:07) Real-Life Applications of Asking for What You Want

(27:00) Pitching a TV Show: The Process

(29:49) Conclusion and Key Takeaways

(34:03) The Genesis of a New Project

(35:01) The Power of Connections

(36:25) Networking and Its Importance

(39:10) The Art of Mentalism

(40:19) Demonstrating Mentalism

(45:57) Understanding Mentalism Techniques

(52:22) The Future of Mentalism

(54:10) Connecting with Wayne Hoffman

(56:22) Overcoming the Fear of No

Wayne Hoffman is a world-renowned mentalist, award-winning performer, and best-selling author of Mind Candy. Known for his captivating stage shows and keynote speech, The Power and Potential of the Human Mind, Wayne combines mentalism, psychology, and illusions to inspire and entertain audiences globally. His high-energy presentations challenge perceptions and drive personal and professional growth, making him a sought-after speaker and coach for top leaders worldwide.

Sponsored by:

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.

Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

Connect with Wayne:

Website: https://waynehoffman.com/

Website: http://conjurorscabinet.com/ 

Website: http://ilovehoffman.com/ 

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

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

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.

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

How can you transform your health, defy conventional wisdom, and embrace a life of vitality and purpose?

Dr. Kevin Hoffarth, founder and owner of BioFIT Medicine, is a distinguished expert in the field of functional medicine and a passionate advocate for optimal health and longevity. With over two decades of experience in the medical field, Dr. Kevin has emerged as a leading figure in redefining traditional healthcare approaches and promoting proactive well-being.

His extensive knowledge spans various aspects of health, including nutrition, hormone replacement therapy, metabolic disorders, and the vital connection between mind and body. Through his book, Functional Medicine: The New Standard, Dr. Kevin provides invaluable insights and practical guidelines to individuals seeking to transform their health.

Joining us on The Greatness Machine, Dr. Kevin talks about his journey of switching from traditional medicine to functional medicine, which was driven by a deep commitment to improving health and providing patients with more effective, comprehensive solutions to their health challenges. 

In this episode, Darius and Dr. Kevin explore various topics, including Dr. Kevin’s upbringing in a medical family, his transition from traditional to functional medicine, the founding of BioFit Medicine, challenges faced by doctors, the distinctions between functional and traditional medicine, the importance of healthspan, and the transformative effects of hormone replacement therapy on brain function and overall well-being.

Topics include:

Connect with Dr. Kevin:

Website: http://www.biofitmedicine.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-hoffarth-md-ifmcp-2829598b

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

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

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

YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Sponsored by:

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.

Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

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 is unpredictable, but what if you could face every challenge with unshakable strength and clarity? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into Stoicism and shares seven key lessons from the ancient philosophy, inspired by Ryan Holiday and “The Daily Stoic.” From avoiding unnecessary suffering to breaking free from the victim mindset, Darius unpacks timeless wisdom from Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and more. Tune in for a deep dive into how Stoic principles can help you navigate life with resilience, self-awareness, and purpose.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Stoicism and Personal Journey

(01:27) Seven Stoic Principles for a Better Life

(02:48) The Importance of Not Complaining

(05:14) Avoiding Comparison with Others

(07:37) The Power of Listening

(10:29) Judgment and Empathy

(12:51) Finding Balance and Temperance

(16:45) Energy and Living a Good Life

(18:39) Reflections on Life Experiences

Sponsored by:

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.

Stash: Don’t let your savings sit around - make it work harder for you. Go to get.stash.com/GREATNESS to see how you can receive $25 towards your first stock purchase and to view important disclosures.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

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. 

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

After years of helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of intimacy, renowned clinical psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Kate Balestrieri has seen it all—from the challenges of fostering honest conversations to the powerful transformation that comes with reconnecting to oneself. In this episode, Dr. Kate shares profound insights into why so many people feel disconnected from their desire and how curiosity, vulnerability, and non-judgment can reignite connection and pleasure in relationships. Drawing from themes in her upcoming book, “What Happened to My Sex Life,” she also reveals how overcoming self-abandonment is the key to living authentically and building deeper intimacy.

In this episode, Darius and Dr. Kate will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Dr. Kate Balestrieri

(02:00) Dr. Kate's Journey into Sex Therapy

(05:40) Exploring Crime and Psychology

(09:35) The Spectrum of Sexuality

(12:50) Cultural Shame Around Sex

(15:39) Hedonism vs. Shame in Sexuality

(18:59) Parenting and Sexual Education

(27:14) The State of Sexual Satisfaction

(33:40) Improving Partnered Sex Lives

(37:58) Navigating Novelty in Relationships

(43:59) The Rise of Non-Monogamy

(49:03) The Role of Therapy in Sexual Conversations

Dr. Kate Balestrieri is a licensed psychologist, certified sex therapist, and founder of Modern Intimacy, with practices in Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago. Passionate about the intersection of mental health, sex, and relationships, she helps individuals and couples heal from trauma, navigate addictions, improve communication, and build deeper intimacy. Guided by a holistic approach that integrates evidence-based practices, Dr. Kate emphasizes the mind-body connection to foster resilience, recovery, and thriving vitality. She also hosts the podcast Get Naked with Dr. Kate, where she explores topics on mental health, sexuality, and relationships.

Sponsored by:

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.

Stash: Join millions of Americans reaching their financial goals—starting at just $3/month! Get $25 towards your first stock purchase at get.stash.com/GREATNESS. 

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

Connect with Dr. Kate:

Website: https://www.modernintimacy.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-balestrieri-psy-d-cst-csat-s-pact-iii-42b378152/

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

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-naked-with-dr-kate/id1563975869

Book: https://www.amazon.com/What-Happened-My-Sex-Life/dp/1891011766 

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. 

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

Ever realized how storytelling goes beyond marketing, actually influencing product value, brand perception, and the triumph of company exits?

The benefits of storytelling contribute to the long-term growth and success of a business by shaping its identity, influencing how it is perceived, and building a loyal customer base. People are drawn to stories that resonate with their experiences, values, and aspirations. And by crafting a unique and authentic narrative, businesses can differentiate themselves and leave a lasting impression on consumers. 

Clay Hebert, a visionary in this real, delves into the art of weaving narratives that define the trajectory of businesses. As a renowned entrepreneur, storyteller, and marketing strategist, he has a proven track record of helping companies craft compelling narratives that not only drive growth but also resonate with their target audience. 

His insights into the art of storytelling have been shared on stages worldwide, inspiring countless individuals to leverage storytelling for business success. 

Today, he is joining us on The Greatness Machine to look back on how it started, who inspired him, and how he became the man that he is right now. 

In this episode, Darius and Clay explore Clay's journey from selling candy bars to embracing entrepreneurship and creative marketing. They emphasize the power of personal connections over sales pitches, the influence of Seth Godin, strategic customer selection, and the creation of the "Perfect Intro" framework. The conversation underscores how storytelling shapes product value, brand perception, and company success, encapsulating Clay's expertise in marketing, entrepreneurship, and storytelling dynamics.

Topics include:

Resources mentioned:

Purple Cow: https://www.amazon.com/Purple-Cow-Transform-Business-Remarkable/dp/014101640X 

This is Marketing: https://www.amazon.com/This-Marketing-Cant-Until-Learn/dp/0241370140/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

Creative Act: https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Act-Way-Being/dp/0593652886/ref=sr_1_1 

Connect with Clay:

Website: https://clayhebert.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/clayhebert 

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

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

YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Sponsored by:

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.

Stash: Join millions of Americans reaching their financial goals—starting at just $3/month! Get $25 towards your first stock purchase at get.stash.com/GREATNESS.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. 

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

In a world filled with distractions and endless desires, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But what if the answers to living a more meaningful life were already written in ancient wisdom?

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh delves deep into the teachings of Stoicism and how they can help us live with intention and purpose. Drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of figures like Marcus Aurelius, he shares insights on how to reduce anxiety, focus on what truly matters, and show up as the best version of ourselves every single day.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Anxiety and Stoicism

(02:46) Marcus Aurelius on Perception and Anxiety

(06:07) Epictetus: Imagined Anxieties vs. Real Problems

(09:04) Seneca: The Power of Imagination

(11:53) Living in the Present: True Happiness

(14:48) Nature's Control and Personal Responsibility

(17:47) Practical Tools for Managing Anxiety

The 10-Second-Rule Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/307-the-10-second-rule/id1555334180?i=1000673543121 

Sponsored by:

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.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

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. 

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

When the pressure is on, the difference between success and failure often comes down to the power of the mind. In this episode, Dr. Michael Gervais, a renowned high-performance psychologist, explores the science of mental mastery and how elite athletes and leaders achieve peak performance. Drawing on years of experience working with some of the world’s top performers, Michael delves into the habits, mindsets, and strategies that allow individuals to thrive under pressure. He highlights the importance of cultivating mental toughness, maintaining focus under stress, and developing resilience to not just survive, but to excel in any high-stakes environment.

In this episode, Darius and Dr. Michael will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to High Performance Psychology

(03:00) The Journey of Dr. Michael Gervais

(09:59) Understanding Anxiety in Athletes

(19:51) The Evolution of Sports Psychology

(30:04) Building a High-Performance Culture

(31:00) Building Mental Skills for Performance

(32:11) The Role of Culture in High Performance

(35:38) Maximizing Individual Potential in Teams

(39:46) Mindfulness as a Foundation for Success

(46:45) Creating a High-Performance Culture

(51:51) The Importance of Recovery in Performance

(57:02) Overcoming Internal Barriers to Greatness

Dr. Michael Gervais is a high-performance psychologist, national bestselling author, and a leading authority on the connection between the mind and human performance. With over 20 years of experience, he has worked with world-class performers and organizations, crafting mental skills frameworks that empower individuals, teams, and organizations to excel under pressure. His impact spans diverse fields, from coaching Super Bowl-winning Seattle Seahawks to supporting Olympians across five Games, including USA Surfing in Tokyo 2021. Dr. Michael’s clients also include world record holders, MVPs, celebrated musicians, and Fortune 50 CEOs, solidifying his influence on the global stage.

Sponsored by:

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.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

Connect with Dr. Michael:

Website: https://findingmastery.com/

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

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

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-mastery-with-dr-michael-gervais/id1025326955 

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. 

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

Is college really the only pathway to success?

Shayla Gifford, entrepreneur, loan officer, Branch Manager at Guild Mortgage, VP of Sales Development, and national coach, has proven that a college diploma is not the only key to success. 

Leaving behind the confines of a classroom, her insatiable curiosity and unwavering ambition propelled her toward a destiny far beyond what she could have imagined. The journey, however, was not without its challenges. Shayla faced rejection and failure before she found success outside of her comfort zone. 

Join us as we unravel the story of a college dropout who defied expectations, defied convention, and emerged as a game-changing entrepreneur.

In this inspiring episode, Darius and Shayla share their invaluable lessons as entrepreneurs. They highlight the importance of persistence, transcending comfort zones for success, being coachable, and thinking bigger. Tune in for motivating insights that will empower your entrepreneurial journey.

Topics include:

Connect with Shayla:

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayla-gifford-3019396/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGaSsziZzd-RGC4KebhRyqw 

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

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

YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Sponsored by:

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.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

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 experienced a moment where success brought praise and recognition, only to find yourself alone when faced with failure?

Today, I am flying solo to delve into a profound quote that encapsulates the essence of these contrasting moments: “Success has many fathers, failure is an orphan.” Drawing from my entrepreneurial journey, I will dive deep into the dynamics of success, failure, and the impact these have on personal identity.

In this episode, I will embark on a personal narrative, recounting the highs and lows of starting a mortgage lending business at a young age, the emotional rollercoaster, the attachment to success, and what I have come to realize after facing a severe setback during the 2007-2008 financial crisis.

Topics include:

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

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

YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Sponsored by:

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.

Rocket Money: Cancel unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster at RocketMoney.com/Darius. 

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. 

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