How does one overcome the hurdles and misconceptions that follow a career in the adult film industry?

Candice Horbacz, also known as Eva Lovia, shares her story of resilience and transformation, discussing the unique challenges she faced as a former adult entertainment actress and how she overcame them. Despite her success in the adult industry, Candice had to deal with the difficulties of balancing a demanding career with personal life and the societal judgments she had to endure. 

Despite these hurdles, she has emerged as an important voice, especially for women, seeking to change the narrative about adult film actresses. With that mission, she started Chatting with Candice, where she dives deep into a variety of topics ranging from personal development to social issues. 

With a keen focus on bridging the gender gap in podcasting, Candice aims to provide content that resonates with both men and women, but especially with women who are often underrepresented in this space.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Candice Horbacz to discuss her journey in the adult industry and the inspiration behind her podcast, Chatting with Candice. Candice shares the challenges she faces due to her career, the importance of internal confidence, and the stigma surrounding the adult film industry. 

Topics include:

Connect with Candice:

Website: https://www.chattingwithcandice.com/ 

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fallinlovia 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/candicehorbacz

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

This episode is sponsored by Porkbun. Go to https://porkbun.com/GreatnessMachine24 and get your .PRO domain for only $1 for the first year at Porkbun!

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Why are some people better at certain things than others?

There are many factors that can contribute to why some individuals are naturally better at certain things than others. These factors can include genetics, environmental influences, upbringing, education, and life experiences.

When you become good at something, you start to see the nuances of that skill that beginners may miss. As you gain more experience, you begin to understand the intricacies and subtleties of the task that may have been previously invisible to you.

This increased awareness allows you to see why others struggle with the skill and what they may be doing wrong. You can recognize common mistakes that beginners make, understand why certain techniques are more effective, and identify patterns that lead to success.

Furthermore, being good at something often requires a deep understanding of the underlying principles that govern the skill.

James Altucher, a Top 10 Linkedin Influencer, prolific writer, successful entrepreneur, chess master, and venture capitalist, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about his motivation in writing Skip the Line: The 10,000 Experiments Rule and Other Surprising Advice for Reaching Your Goals.

In this episode, Darius and James dive deep into the pros and cons of having multiple interests and hobbies, the meaning of Idea Sex and how it can be used in all areas of life, and the interesting concept of using conspiracy numbers in choosing the right idea. 

Topics include:

Connect with James:

Website: https://jamesaltucher.com/ 

Website: https://notepd.com/ 

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

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Line-Experiments-Surprising-Reaching/dp/0062998927 

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

This episode is sponsored by Porkbun. Go to https://porkbun.com/GreatnessMachine24 and get your .PRO domain for only $1 for the first year at Porkbun!

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

Are you building a championship team or a recipe for failure?

Jack Welch, the legendary business executive and former CEO of General Electric (GE), understood the critical importance of people and values in building successful organizations. He believed that the key to a thriving company lies in having the right people who not only possess the necessary skills and competencies but also align with the core values of the organization.

For Jack, there is no middle ground when it comes to values. In fact, he emphasized that competency in commitments and living the core values are the two essential factors in evaluating the suitability of individuals in a team. 

He also believed that the right people contribute to making the CEO’s life easier and help foster a positive and thriving organizational culture. On the other hand, individuals who do not align with the values become a hindrance, causing damage to the organization’s ability to grow and succeed.

In this episode, I delve into a range of topics that shed light on the remarkable success achieved by Jack Welch. I will also talk about the key factors that contribute to the overall success and cohesion of an organization, and why hiring for value alignment is crucial to the success of a company.

Topics include:

Resource mentioned:

Lessons on Winning and Profitability from Jack Welch: https://neilpatel.com/blog/winning-and-profitability/ 

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

This episode is sponsored by Porkbun. Go to https://porkbun.com/GreatnessMachine24 and get your .PRO domain for only $1 for the first year at Porkbun!

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

Is the future of housing not just around the corner, but already knocking on our doors?

Ivy Zelman, a renowned housing market analyst and CEO of Zelman & Associates, offers her unique perspective on the future of housing. With two decades of experience under her belt, she continues to provide invaluable insights and predictions that have helped shape the strategies of major investors and developers. 

This episode of The Greatness Machine features Darius and our expert guest Ivy Zelman discussing how emerging technologies are influencing the housing market, from building materials to eco-friendly homes. Their discussion includes demographic shifts, economic factors, and environmental concerns, providing an overview of what the future holds for homeowners, renters, and investors.

In addition to offering her predictions on the trends that will dominate the next decade, Ivy also discusses innovative solutions for affordable housing and addressing the challenges provided by urbanization and climate change.

Topics include:

Connect with Ivy:

Website: https://www.zelmanassociates.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivy-zelman-64304616b 

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

This episode is sponsored by Porkbun. Go to https://porkbun.com/GreatnessMachine24 and get your .PRO domain for only $1 for the first year at Porkbun!

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

How do you handle tough situations in life? 

Building mental strength is a critical aspect of achieving success and living a fulfilling life. It involves developing a mindset that allows you to overcome obstacles and setbacks, and maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity.

It requires a strong sense of self-awareness, which involves understanding your strengths and weaknesses and being willing to take risks and step outside of your comfort zone. This can involve setting realistic goals, practicing self-reflection, and seeking feedback from others.

Amy Morin, editor-in-chief of Verywell Mind, the biggest mental health website in the world, joins us on the Greatness Machine to talk about her new book, 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do.

In this episode, Darius and Amy talk about the importance of building mental strength to help manage our thoughts and emotions. Amy explains the difference between knowing and doing, and why people often fear solitude and silence.

Topics include:

Resources mentioned:

The War of Art by: https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/ 

Connect with Amy:

Website: https://amymorinlcsw.com/ 

Website: https://www.verywellmind.com/ 

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

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Things-Mentally-Strong-People-Workbook/dp/0063252236 

Podcast: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-verywell-mind-podcast-5113058 

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

This episode is sponsored by Porkbun. Go to https://porkbun.com/GreatnessMachine24 and get your .PRO domain for only $1 for the first year at Porkbun!

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

Is it really possible to achieve more by doing less?

In the pursuit of doing more, we often find ourselves entangled in a labyrinth of busyness, where productivity becomes a mere illusion. We chase after every opportunity that comes knocking, and our plates overflow, spilling over with commitments and aspirations, leaving us no room to savor life’s simple pleasures.

But amidst this flurry of constant motion, we fail to realize that doing more doesn’t always equate to achieving more. In fact, that is one of the things I learned after experiencing burnout, anxiety, and exhaustion as someone who tends to overwhelm himself with too many commitments. 

Today I am flying solo for part one of this series where I will discuss the top four things I learned in my 44th year on Earth. In this episode, I will share how I have come to a realization that choosing less over more is the key to a happier life. I will also share some tips on how to simplify decision-making and how to identify and focus on the things that truly matter in order to succeed. 

Topics include:

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

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How can you balance work and play while achieving unparalleled success? What are the keys to maximizing every moment of your life?

Balancing work and play while achieving unparalleled success is a delicate yet achievable feat, as demonstrated by Marko Gargenta's journey. Best known for his innovative ventures, he embodies the art of integrating work and play seamlessly into his life, highlighting several key strategies that anyone can adopt to maintain equilibrium and excel in both professional and personal realms.

Marko stresses the importance of setting clear priorities and boundaries. By defining what matters most in both work and personal life, individuals can allocate their time and energy effectively. For Marko, this means dedicating time to work tasks, utilizing technology and optimizing workflows to maximize output.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Marko as they delve into his remarkable journey—from immigrating from Serbia to Canada during the Yugoslav Wars, his transitions between tech and hospitality industries, to founding PlusPlus. Marko shares his inspirations for entering tech, including the creation of Marakana for tech training, and his pivotal decision to join Twitter. He discusses crafting a personal vision and actively pursuing it, advocating for living an epic life through joyous experiences. 

Topics include:

Connect with Marko:

Website: https://plusplus.co/ 

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/markog 

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

What’s stopping you from turning your dreams into reality?

Turning your dreams into reality is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences you can have in life. It is about taking that idea or goal that you've had in your head for so long and making it a tangible, real-life accomplishment. It is about taking the necessary steps to pursue the life you have always wanted.

Making your dream a reality requires organization, flexibility, positivity, and support. By staying focused on your vision, being adaptable in the face of challenges, maintaining a positive attitude, and seeking out support when needed, you can turn your dream into a reality and reach your full potential.

Giovanni Marsico, the founder of Archangel, a community of superhero entrepreneurs, leaders, and game changers, joins us on the Greatness Machine to share his personal story of living his dream and helping others achieve theirs. 

In this episode, Darius and Giovanni talk about overcoming the challenges of chasing your dreams, combating imposter syndrome, and the benefits of stepping outside of your comfort zone. Giovanni also reveals the inspiration behind the “Dreamer” documentary, where they tell the story of entrepreneurs who never gave up on their dreams despite the hurdles. 

Topics include:

Connect with Giovanni:

Website: https://archangel.cc/ 

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

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

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

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

Are you running on the hedonic treadmill?

The hedonic treadmill refers to the phenomenon where people's expectations and desires for pleasure and happiness increase over time, but their actual level of happiness and satisfaction remains relatively constant. In other words, people constantly strive for more and more pleasure and happiness, but they never really reach a state of lasting satisfaction or contentment.

Getting off the hedonic treadmill can be achieved by changing one's mindset and approach to life, focusing on things that provide deeper meaning and fulfillment rather than short-term pleasure.

Today I am flying solo to talk about my personal struggles of being on the hedonic treadmill for so long and how that mindset has caused me dissatisfaction despite achieving some of the biggest milestones I have set for myself.

In this episode, I will share some tips on how to avoid getting stuck on the hedonic treadmill, the benefits of building habits and rituals to achieve success, and the importance of celebrating achievements.

Topics include:

Resources mentioned:

War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://stevenpressfield.com/books/the-war-of-art/ 

The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Not-So-Obvious-Guaranteed-Transform/dp/0979019710 

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

How does one go from financial struggle to creating a platform worth nearly $100 billion? 

This question encapsulates the extraordinary journey of Shirl Penney, founder, president, and CEO of Dynasty Financial Partners. Beginning in rural Maine where financial stability was difficult to come by, his story is one of grit and determination. 

Although Shirl had to overcome early hardships, his desire for education and self-improvement led him to prestigious institutions and eventually to the competitive world of finance. Having navigated and overcome numerous obstacles led to the establishment of Dynasty Financial Partners, a firm he founded with resilience and an innovative mindset. 

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Shirl Penney to share his compelling journey from the financial struggles of his upbringing in rural Maine to building a financial empire managing nearly $100 billion in assets. The conversation delves into the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the innovative strategies he employed to revolutionize the wealth management industry. Shirl also discusses the importance of resilience, leadership, and maintaining a clear vision in the pursuit of success. 

Topics include:

Connect with Shirl:

Website: https://dynastyfinancialpartners.com/ 

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

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

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

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

YouTube: https://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