Trigger Warning

This episode discusses self harm and its prevention. It may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know needs help, please seek professional assistance. Listener discretion is advised.

Can a single conversation save a life?

Kevin Hines, a renowned mental health advocate, author, and speaker, has dedicated his life to suicide prevention and promoting mental wellness. He works with organizations, schools, and communities to provide resources and support to those in need.

Drawing from his personal journey, he became a leading voice in the fight against suicide, working tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide. His story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right support, recovery is possible, and every life is worth saving.

In observance of National Suicide Prevention Week, Kevin joins us on The Greatness Machine to talk about his courageous journey from the edge of despair to becoming a global advocate for mental health.

In this episode, Darius and Kevin engage in a profound discussion covering a wide range of topics related to mental health, suicide prevention, and personal resilience. They highlight dispelling misconceptions about suicide, nurturing human connections, and addressing the dangers of excessive screen time and instant gratification culture.

Topics include:

Connect with Kevin:

Website: https://www.kevinhinesstory.com/

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

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYZeM7MIkXtU_--r9BlDTQA 

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.

NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts.

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.

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Loyalty—do you give it freely, or do you expect it to be earned? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives deep into the complexities of loyalty, sharing a pivotal lesson that reshaped his perspective. From early business partnerships to navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, he explores how loyalty can be both a gift and a test. Tune in for raw insights, personal stories, and a thought-provoking take on what it truly means to stand by those around you.

In this episode, Darius will discuss:

(00:00) The Nature of Loyalty

(02:55) Loyalty as a Gift

(06:12) Lessons from Business Experiences

(11:50) Reframing Expectations of Loyalty

(18:00) Understanding Self-Interest in 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: 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 transforming her love for vintage clothing and 1970s surf culture into the globally recognized brand Aviator Nation, Paige Mycoskie has become a symbol of passion-driven entrepreneurship. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Paige shares the story of building a brand that not only celebrates creativity but also fosters a culture of community and adventure. Paige delves into the importance of staying authentic in a fast-paced world, the value of stepping away from technology to spark inspiration, and the lessons she’s learned from her journey as a leader.

In this episode, Darius and Paige will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Background

(02:4) Paige's Origin Story and Early Influences

(06:03) The Birth of Aviator Nation

(09:00) Initial Success and Market Fit

(11:59) Scaling the Business and Production Challenges

(15:05) Leadership Journey and Team Dynamics

(26:54) Embracing Challenges and Team Growth

(28:48) Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

(30:58) The Creative Process and Authenticity

(37:04) Maintaining Company Culture During Growth

(42:45) Finding Your Ikigai

(45:43) Sibling Success: Learning from Each Other

Paige Mycoskie is the founder of Aviator Nation, a 70's-inspired, Made-in-America lifestyle brand with 17 U.S. retail locations and a factory in Los Angeles. Recognized as GQ Magazine's Designer of the Year and a Forbes-featured entrepreneur, Paige combines fashion, music, and philanthropy through partnerships with festivals like SXSW and nonprofits like Charity Water. From hand-sewing her first garments to creating immersive retail experiences, Paige continues to champion American manufacturing and inspire a new era of design and entrepreneurship.

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 Paige:

Website: https://www.aviatornation.com/ 

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

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-mycoskie-17a9b56 

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

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 leverage the power of content creation to not only connect with your audience but also uncover new business opportunities and solve their pressing needs?

Ryan Pineda, a dynamic entrepreneur and content creator, has made waves in the business world with his innovative approach to real estate and digital media. His journey from flipping couches to flipping real estate properties showcases his relentless drive and adaptability.

His story is a testament to the power of adaptation and identifying market demands. Through podcasts, courses, and platforms like WealthyWay.com, Ryan not only connects with his audience but also empowers them to improve their lives.

In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Ryan explore the importance of purpose and determination in achieving greatness. Ryan's entrepreneurial journey, marked by an "all in" attitude, takes center stage. They discuss his evolution from flipping furniture to real estate, dissect the fear of risk-taking, and stress the value of embracing risks for growth. Ryan also emphasizes the multifaceted nature of wealth, beyond finances, and shares insights on transitioning to the digital world, building a digital presence, and audience engagement.

Topics include:

Connect with Ryan:

Website: https://www.ryanpineda.com/

Website: https://www.wealthyway.com/ 

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RyanPineda

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanPineda 

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

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