On today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Derek Coburn, the author of 'Networking Is NOT Working' and the co-founder and CEO of CADRE, an un-networking community in Washington, DC, which currently supports over 100 CEOs and business leaders. 

Derek began his career in the financial services industry. When the economy took a turn for the worse, he had to devote more attention to his existing clients and had less time for "traditional networking". He began to experiment with his own ideas, which included creating an informal 'un-networking' group consisting of his best clients and other top professionals. Derek's passion for connecting remarkable professionals led him to start CADRE and write his first book. 

You'll discover how Derek overcame childhood trauma and made his personality stronger.

You'll learn how both Derek and Darius started their books and how it changed their lives.

You'll also discover the importance of creating value in our lives and living for the present.

Join Darius and Derek as they discuss the drawbacks of traditional networking, living for the present and building rejection muscles.

Topics include:

Connect with Derek:

Website: https://www.cadredc.com

Website: https://www.derekcoburn.com/

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

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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Do you ever look back and think about the things that you could have done differently? Maybe you have done and said something that you wish you could take back. Maybe you wish you hadn’t worked so hard or wish you could have done better. 

Most of us, if not all, have regrets. It could be things you did that you hoped you hadn’t or things you wish you had done but didn’t.

Today, I am flying solo to share a list of things I would tell my younger self. Looking back, I remember being scared of a lot of things, worrying about what could happen, and spending my time thinking about the future. What I failed to realize was we can never take back whatever time and effort we have expended in the past. 

In this episode, I will discuss the things I wish I had known when starting out in life and business, the biggest mistake I made as an entrepreneur dad, my realizations looking back in the past, and the things I wish to do now that I am in my 40’s.

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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What wisdom lies in an entrepreneur’s journey from startups to strategic business acquisitions?

Robert Brooker has traversed a multifaceted career path marked by entrepreneurship, strategic business acquisitions, and a profound commitment to a fulfilling life. Starting with odd jobs worldwide, he ventured into real estate and later transitioned to acquiring businesses. 

Robert’s impact extends beyond business by serving on BetterInvesting’s board and held roles at esteemed institutions. Now, he focuses on diverse investments, emphasizing family and personal fulfillment. 

In this episode, Robert joins Darius for yet another episode of The Greatness Machine to talk about his latest book, Albert Kner: Icon, Legend. He also discusses crucial insights for entrepreneurs and investors, emphasizing the significance of aligning business ideas with current market conditions and delves into the value of peer groups within these communities. A pivotal aspect of the discussion revolves around Robert’s personal journey, specifically the transition from being a business owner to dedicating his focus to full-time investing.

Topics include:

Connect with Robert:

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

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Albert-Kner-Artist-Discovering-Industrial/dp/9631369234 

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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In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Jessica Lawson, a self-taught chef and baker. Food is her creative release and being in the kitchen keeps her centered. 

Jessica started a blog to share recipes, favorite gadgets, and products with her friends and family. She's fiercely passionate about good quality ingredients, healthy-ish living, and sharing her original well-tested recipes.

You'll discover why you must 'start by starting' and readjust your thinking

You'll learn the power of pursuing what you love and are passionate about.

You'll also discover tips for organically growing your following.

Join Darius and Jessica for this exciting (and delicious!) discussion.

Topics include:

Connect with Jessica:

Website: https://bigdeliciouslife.com 

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

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

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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Is writing a book hard?

Today I’m flying solo to talk about the process of writing my first book, “The Core Value Equation,” where I tackled how core values create the ultimate decision-making engine for an organization that consistently produces spectacular results.

Writing and publishing my own book has been on my bucket list for a long time until I made it happen in 2020. Now, looking back at the experience made me realize that anyone can write and publish their own book. It may sound like a daunting task, but it was personally one of the coolest projects I have ever done. 

In this episode, I will be taking you behind the scene on how The Core Value Equation was born. You will also learn several tips on how to write your own book and the challenges and benefits of publishing one.

Here are some of the things I get into:

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

Ever wondered how to unleash your inner genius and transform your life?

This innate desire to tap into our fullest potential often leads us on a journey of self-discovery, where we explore the depths of our abilities and aspirations.

Renowned psychologist and personal development guru Gay Hendricks has dedicated much of his work to addressing precisely this question. Through his insightful teachings and the concept of the “Zone of Genius,” he guides individuals on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. He believes that within each person lies a unique set of talents, passions, and abilities. 

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Gay joins Darius to talk about his enlightening journey, reminiscing an “out of Hendricks” moment triggered by an unexpected fall on ice. Gay candidly discusses his personal struggles with obesity, emphasizing the profound impact of conscious food choices on one’s transformation. 

The conversation unravels the intricacies of identifying and transforming limiting beliefs, highlighting the pivotal role of openness to learning. Gay also offers insights into cultivating genius and finding your unique “genius zone,” a place where passion and contribution intersect. 

Topics include:

Connect with Gay:

Website: https://hendricks.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gay-hendricks-195a90 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hendricks.gay/

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

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 Uncommon Goods. Go to uncommongoods.com/greatness to get 15% off your next gift.

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In today’s show, Darius interviews Gina Mollicone-Long, co-founder of Greatness U, a multinational training, team-building, and personal development company. Gina teaches the mechanics of the mind to help coaches and business leaders get better results faster.

In today’s show, Gina gives us some interesting insights into different mechanistic mind models. 

First, she walks us through her “Process of Change”. 

A willingness to change is the first step in this evolution. Can you be successful in changing a person with zero willingness? On the flip side, can you stop a person who is hell-bent on change? Listening to this segment of the show will make you realize that change can be turned into an engineered process.

This serves as a good segue to our next topic where we discuss the nuances of NLP or Neuro-Linguistic Programming. You will get some interesting insights into this result-oriented technology which involves the assimilation of your conscious and unconscious thinking. 

Another simple but extremely powerful topic that we discuss is the importance of persistence and never-ending practice. 

Constant change is exhausting. Failures are exhausting. And those who manage to keep at it despite all the setbacks will surely find success at the end of it all. We all know that there is light at the end of the towel. But, yet, most of us throw in the towel midway and slide into a life of mediocrity. This segment of the show will surely rejuvenate and inspire you all over again.

Other topics discussed in this show include the need to balance art and science, how a crisis brings out the best in us, and dealing with co-workers who see things differently.

Topics include:

Connect with Gina:

Website: https://ginamollicone.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/ginamollicone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gina.mollicone/

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

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

Do you find yourself grappling with the idea of exploring various opportunities versus staying committed to a single path for long-term success?

In the third installment of this compelling series, join me as I focus on a crucial lesson: “The game is long, but you need to stay to win it.” Reflecting on my experiences as a CEO and entrepreneur, I discuss the pitfalls of job hopping and share insights on the power of consistency in the world of business and entrepreneurship.

Drawing inspiration from legendary figures like Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, known for their long-term thinking, I emphasize the importance of finding the right game to play in your career. 

Tune in to uncover the secrets of creating exponential values, seizing opportunities, ang thriving in the long game of business. 

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 we foster a culture of "unreasonable hospitality" and go above and beyond conventional standards to deliver exceptional experiences?

Will Guidara, a distinguished figure in the world of hospitality and fine dining, has not only earned numerous accolades but has also revolutionized the way people perceive dining experiences. 

His journey teaches us that creating a culture of "unreasonable hospitality" is all about pushing the boundaries, rewriting the script, and delivering extraordinary experiences. It is a testament to the idea that success transcends ordinary standards and is marked by a relentless commitment to exceeding expectations.

Will is recognized for his role as a co-owner of Eleven Madison Park, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City, which under his leadership, earned the title of the "World's Best Restaurant" in 2017. Beyond his restaurant endeavors, he is a passionate advocate for the 'extra mile' mentality, inspiring individuals and businesses to prioritize people and deliver exceptional experiences.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Will joins Darius to share insights on his inspiration for prioritizing others, drawing from his experiences with Danny Meyer. He underscores the importance of financial management in the restaurant industry and creating a culture of unreasonable hospitality. Will also touches on personal growth, leadership, and lessons learned from pursuing excellence in the culinary world and writing a book.

Topics include:

Connect with Will:

Website: https://unreasonablehospitality.com/ 

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wguidara

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

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

Every entrepreneur will experience adversity at one time or another - that's a fact of life. Whether it be business related or personal, how we respond to the presence of these challenges is vital to determining whether we will triumph over them.

In today's episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Ben Woodward, speaker, strategist, coach and best-selling author. Ben is no stranger to adversity, having had to send his father to prison, struggle with undiagnosed bipolar disorder and endure a corporate crisis throughout his life. The wisdom he gained from these experiences has been outlined in his book, The Empowerment Paradox.

You'll discover a little of Ben's journey - Moving from New Zealand to the UK with only 50 pounds in his pocket to live with his father - who turned out to be a sex offender who had never been brought to justice.

You'll learn how Ben was forced to confront his father, a process that resulted in a prison sentence and a new perspective on their relationship.

You'll discover how Ben's life has been shaped by undiagnosed bipolar disorder, offering him unique insights into the concept of surrender and becoming a victor over one's circumstances.

Join Darius and Ben for a deeply personal and powerful discussion that will change the way you look at adversity in life and in business.

Topics include: 

Connect with Ben:

Website: http://www.ben-woodward.com/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BenWoodwardEP 

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