The Greatness Machine is on a Quest to Maximize the Human Experience! Join Award Winning CEO and Author, Darius Mirshahzadeh (pron. Mer-shaw-za-day), as he interviews some of the greatest minds in the world―turning their wisdom and experience into learnings and advice you can use in your life so that you can level up and create greatness. Join Darius as he goes deep with guests like: Moby, Seth Godin, Gabby Reece, Amanda Knox, UFC Ring Announcer Bruce Buffer, Former FBI Negotiator Chris Voss ...
…
continue reading
Darius Mirshahzadeh Podcasts
Join hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin as they delve into authentic stories of leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Each episode offers candid conversations with seasoned leaders, exploring the challenges faced, the triumphs celebrated, and the insights gained from real-world experiences. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, pull up a chair and find your seat at the table.
…
continue reading

1
375 | Michelle Argyris | The Power of Listening to Your Inner Voice and Following Where It Leads
1:13:39
1:13:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:13:39What 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 …
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Patricia Wallwork | How To Build A Cult Following For Your Brand
53:31
53:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:31How do you build a devoted following for your brand? This question lies at the heart of every successful business endeavor, and Patricia Wallwork, the award-winning CEO of Milo’s Tea Company, shares compelling insights into exactly how to accomplish this goal. Her leadership has not only allowed the family-owned business to thrive, but also cultiva…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Amanda Knox | Fighting For Your Life Against A Trial By Media
1:03:40
1:03:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:40How do you free yourself from the prison of your past? How do you get up after being dragged down? Joining us today to talk about the 2007 murder case that shocked the world, Amanda Knox recalls her wrongful conviction for the death of Meredith Kercher. Fifteen years after the gruesome incident that attracted huge media attention, Amanda gets real …
…
continue reading

1
374 | Nathanael Chawkin (Part 2) | AI, Consciousness, and the Future of Spiritual Leadership
1:53:59
1:53:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:53:59What happens when leadership, plant medicine, and AI collide? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius reconnects with Nathanael Chawkin, executive coach, former cage fighter, and founder of Awakened Leadership, for a deep and thought-provoking conversation about transformation, consciousness, and purpose. They dive into what it means to le…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Clay Martin (Part 1) | Heroes in the Making: How Childhood Influences Shape Military Paths
1:23:22
1:23:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:23:22How do childhood influences shape the mindset and motivations of those who serve in the military? From early exposure to media depicting heroic military figures to the weight of familial legacies, past experiences intricately shape career decisions in the armed forces. These influences, whether based on action-packed films or the proud lineage of a…
…
continue reading

1
Darius Classic | How to Live a Worry Free Life
17:32
17:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:32Are you letting your anxiety and worries shape your reality and limit your potential? Today, I am flying solo to talk about a topic that resonates with many of us: the impact of anxiety and worry on our lives. We often find ourselves in a constant battle with these emotions, and it can feel overwhelming when they start to dictate our decisions and …
…
continue reading

1
373 | Nathanael Chawkin (Part 1) | Awakened Leadership: Doing Deep Work
58:14
58:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:14What if the real work of leadership wasn’t about climbing higher, but going deeper into the soul, the body, and the sacred responsibility of showing up fully alive? In this soul-stirring conversation on The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Nathanael Chawkin for a deep dive into the sacred masculine, conscious leadership, and the power of in…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Guy Kawasaki | Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference
1:03:26
1:03:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:26What sets remarkable individuals apart from the rest? Dive into the heart of this question with Guy Kawasaki, a trailblazer in the realms of entrepreneurship and innovation, as he talks about his newest book Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference. Combining his 40 years of experience with the wisdom from 200 notewort…
…
continue reading
Are you living in the present, or are you buried in the past and the future? It is easy to lose sight of the present as we dwell on past mistakes or dream of future achievements. But what if the key to fulfillment lies in mastering each moment as it comes? Today, I am flying solo to talk about a concept I call the 10-second rule–a simple yet powerf…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Pamela Cantor, M.D. | Realizing Your Fullest Potential
1:04:26
1:04:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:26Do you ever pause to consider the extraordinary capacity that lies within you to transcend adversity and unlock your fullest potential? Realizing your human potential is a profound journey of self-discovery and growth, transcending mere achievement to encompass the fullest expression of who you are. It is fueled by passion, determination, and a bel…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Rebecca Homkes | Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times
1:02:09
1:02:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:09What can businesses do to not just survive, but thrive in today’s volatile market? Today’s market is highly volatile, and the winning formula is having not just staying afloat but rather growing in uncertain times. Businesses can achieve this by adopting a proactive and adaptable mindset. Rather than seeking stability in an inherently unpredictable…
…
continue reading

1
Leadership Lessons from the Financial Frontlines with Tom Casey
52:16
52:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:16Financial leadership isn't just about managing numbers—it's about navigating uncertainty and building resilience. In this candid conversation, Tom Casey draws from his remarkable journey as CFO at institutions including GE Capital, Washington Mutual, Clear Channel, and Lending Club to reveal what truly matters when steering organizations through tr…
…
continue reading

1
372 | Comparing Your Life Against the Bottom Billion in the World
23:47
23:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:47In this special solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh opens up about a powerful, soul-stirring experience during his sabbatical in Tanzania. Broadcasting from Arusha, he reflects on his family’s two-week volunteer mission in the remote village of Ipalamwa with Global Volunteers. From building chicken coops and earth boxes to vi…
…
continue reading

1
371 | Mohnish Pabrai | The Surprising Truth About Doing Less and Achieving More
59:25
59:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:25What if the secret to success isn’t doing more, but focusing on less? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with legendary investor and entrepreneur Mohnish Pabrai to talk about building businesses, spotting hidden opportunities, and why focus is the ultimate superpower. From failed startups to scaling a $20M company, Mohnish s…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Grace Puma and Christiana Smith Shi | COO of Pepsi and Nike President of Retail Tell Us How to Succeed
55:00
55:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:00How do successful people navigate their careers, overcome barriers, and strategically position themselves for success? It is often challenging to navigate the complexities of professional growth when embarking on a successful career path. From shifting industry landscapes to personal and social expectations, professionals face numerous challenges a…
…
continue reading

1
Decimal Points and Swag: A Woman's Path to the C-Suite with Terry Hill
49:19
49:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:19Terry Hill shares her journey from HR professional to C-suite executive, revealing how she learned the "fine art of approximation" after watching male colleagues confidently present rough estimates while she felt compelled to provide decimal-point precision. • Early career path from retail to American Express to Nationwide Insurance • Moving from H…
…
continue reading

1
Darius Classic | How to Pick a Wealth Manager
19:23
19:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:23Is your financial advisor helping you build wealth or just selling you products? Today, I am flying solo to dive deep into the crucial process of selecting the right financial advisor, sharing valuable insights from my own experiences. Whether you are an entrepreneur preparing for a business exit or an individual with a growing nest egg, finding th…
…
continue reading

1
370 | Scott Donnell | The Hidden Cost of Hustle Culture and How to Build a Family That Lasts
1:08:53
1:08:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:53What if the hustle isn’t the way forward, but the thing holding you back? In this powerful episode of The Greatness Machine, Scott Donnell, founder of Fig & Eagle, shares his transformation from a high-achieving, hustle-driven entrepreneur to a fully surrendered husband, father, and leader. He and Darius unpack the deeper meaning of faith, family, …
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Ron “Omani” Carson | Living a Wealthy Life: A Journey to True Abundance
1:05:25
1:05:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:25Ever wondered what it takes to shift from a life of constant striving and grinding to one filled with purpose, balance, and true abundance? Choosing a life of purpose, balance, and true abundance over a life consumed by relentless striving and grinding is a profound journey of self-discovery. This shift challenges the conventional narrative that su…
…
continue reading

1
What's the Worst That Could Happen? Building a Billion Dollar Company with Troy Johnson
56:19
56:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:19Troy Johnson, co-founder of Slalom Consulting, shares the power of gratitude and how simple moments of appreciation can transform our outlook in both work and life. From his beginnings in Iowa to building a global consulting powerhouse, Troy reveals how authentic connection with people has been the cornerstone of his leadership philosophy and Slalo…
…
continue reading

1
Darius Classic | If You Could Rewind Life
16:47
16:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:47Do you compare your current decisions with an ideal outcome that did not happen? Today, I am flying solo to dive deep into the concept of comparison and its impact on our happiness and decision-making. I will explore how we often measure ourselves against idealized outcomes or imagined scenarios rather than focusing on our unique journeys. I will a…
…
continue reading

1
369 | Elatia Abate | Why the Future of AI Depends on the Best of Our Humanity
1:08:33
1:08:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:33What if AI is more than a tool? What if it’s a toddler learning from us? In this mind-expanding episode of The Greatness Machine, futurist Elatia Abate joins Darius to explore the ethical and emotional dimensions of artificial intelligence. From the power of diverse voices shaping AI to how kindness in prompts can actually improve results, Elatia s…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Garrett Gunderson | Money Unmasked: Unlearn, Unlock, and Take Back Control of Your Finances and Life
1:00:53
1:00:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:53Is more money the key to happiness? Or is there more to life than what meets the wallet? People often seek financial success in the pursuit of happiness, believing that a substantial income and material wealth is equivalent to a more fulfilling life. While money certainly plays a crucial role in meeting basic needs and providing a sense of security…
…
continue reading

1
From Lemonade Stand to Fortune 150: Marty Renkis' Journey
52:34
52:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:34What happens when a natural-born entrepreneur with a "Pied Piper" gift for leading others transitions into corporate America? In this episode of Your Seat at the Table, hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin talk with serial entrepreneur and technology visionary Marty Renkis. Marty shares his incredible journey from lemonade stands and selling scrap pap…
…
continue reading

1
368 | More Than Winning: The Art of Showing Up Daily
58:50
58:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:50What if your company’s biggest problem isn’t strategy, but a lack of soul? Darius Mirshahzadeh sits down with Mike Maddock and John Tobin on Your Seat at the Table Podcast for a deep dive into leadership, company culture, and what it really takes to build a high-performing team. In this candid conversation, Darius opens up about the hard lessons he…
…
continue reading

1
367 | Rorke Denver | Former Navy SEAL Shares Leadership Lessons from the Front Lines
1:07:50
1:07:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:50What does it take to lead when lives are on the line? In this compelling episode of The Greatness Machine, former Navy SEAL Commander Rorke Denver joins Darius to explore what real leadership looks like under pressure. Drawing from years of leading special ops missions, Rorke shares how the same principles that guide elite warriors—clarity, discipl…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Giles Yeo | From Calorie Counting to Quality Eating: A Holistic Approach to Wellness
55:27
55:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:27What if calories aren’t the whole story? In the realm of nutrition and health, the traditional belief has been that counting calories is the ultimate key to managing one’s diet effectively. But what if we told you calories might not be the key to a healthy diet? Delving beyond the calorie count, this question encourages us to explore the multifacet…
…
continue reading

1
Balancing Ambition and Fulfillment as a Leader with Darius Mirshahzadeh
53:36
53:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:36In this episode of Your Seat at the Table, hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin sit down with entrepreneur, culture expert, and author Darius Mirshahzadeh to explore a deep leadership question: how do you stay ambitious and driven without losing joy and fulfillment along the way? Darius shares his journey as a high-achieving CEO who learned that chasi…
…
continue reading

1
Darius Classic | How Do You Show Up In the World?
19:54
19:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:54How do people see you, and more importantly, how do you see yourself? The way others treat us reflects their perception of us, but how we respond shows how we perceive ourselves. Being able to recognize and own this dynamic is key to building strong relationships - both personal and professional. Today, I am flying solo for the 300th episode of The…
…
continue reading

1
366 | Robert Glazer | Rethinking Two Weeks’ Notice: Changing The Way Employees Leave Companies For The Better
54:12
54:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:12What if the key to lasting success isn’t just about hiring the right people, but also about letting them go the right way? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius chats with Robert Glazer, entrepreneur, bestselling author, and former CEO of Acceleration Partners, about building a culture of trust, transparency, and long-term relationships.…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Matt Higgins (Part 2) | Mindset Mastery: Navigating Failures and Finding Opportunities
1:13:10
1:13:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:13:10Ever wondered how burning the boats can lead to extracting more value than you ever thought possible? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, we welcome back Matt Higgins, the author of the groundbreaking book Burn the Boats: Toss Plan B Overboard and Unleash Your Full Potential. Matt delves into the art of setting and achieving goals, sharing hi…
…
continue reading

1
Decision-Making Secrets: Trusting Yourself While Listening to Others with Ken Sim
54:15
54:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:15In this inspiring episode, hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin talk with Ken Sim — entrepreneur, founder of Nurse Next Door, and Mayor of Vancouver. Ken shares how his entrepreneurial mindset shaped his approach to public service and why core values like kindness, compassion, and optimism guide every big decision. From growing a healthcare company wi…
…
continue reading
Sometimes the answers we’re chasing in business and life have already been written—centuries ago. In this solo episode, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives deep into four timeless quotes by the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, exploring how ancient wisdom still holds power in modern life. Recorded from an Airbnb in Barcelona, Darius shares personal insights and …
…
continue reading

1
364 | Eric Jorgenson (Part 2) | Why Some Stories Stick Forever—and How to Craft Ones That Do
1:18:56
1:18:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:18:56What does it take for an idea to stand the test of time and shape generations? In this episode, Eric Jorgenson returns on The Greatness Machine to explore the enduring power of timeless ideas and transformative storytelling. Joining host Darius Mirshahzadeh, they dive into what makes certain books iconic and how mystics like Rumi and Jesus continue…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Marga Hoek | Tech for Good: Imagine Solving the World’s Greatest Challenges
59:05
59:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:05In a world full of challenges, how can technology be a force for good? As we navigate the complexities of the modern era, it becomes increasingly evident that the role of technology extends far beyond innovation for innovation’s sake; it is a formidable force capable of catalyzing positive change. Marga Hoek, a visionary three-time CEO and sustaina…
…
continue reading

1
From Rock Bottom to Purpose-Driven Author: Mike Michalowicz on True Success
55:20
55:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:20In this powerful episode of Your Seat at the Table, hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin sit down with best-selling author, entrepreneur, and business mentor Mike Michalowicz. Mike opens up about his dramatic journey from a financially driven entrepreneur — complete with luxury cars and big ego — to losing everything during the 2008 financial crisis. …
…
continue reading

1
363 | How to Bring Your Core Values to Life in Your Company
18:58
18:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:58What if your core values weren’t just words on a wall—but the driving force behind every decision, meeting, and moment of accountability? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh dives into practical, powerful ways to bring core values to life—turning them into living, breathing parts of your team’s daily rhythms. From fam…
…
continue reading

1
362 | Elsa Moreck | How to Attract What You Truly Want in Relationships
1:07:37
1:07:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:37What if everything you’ve been taught about dating is only half the story? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by dating and relationship coach Elsa Moreck for a powerful deep dive into the psychology of attraction, emotional intelligence, and modern masculinity. Together, they explore what it means to be truly self-aware in …
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Will Guidara | Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect
1:09:18
1:09:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:18How 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 teac…
…
continue reading

1
How to See the Future with Deloitte's Chief Futurist, Mike Bechtel
1:00:50
1:00:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:50What does it take to truly see the future — and help others act on it? In this lively episode, hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin sit down with Mike Bechtel, Chief Futurist at Deloitte. Mike shares his fascinating journey from ska bands to anthropology, consulting, venture capital, and teaching at Notre Dame. They discuss the power of curiosity, why…
…
continue reading
What if the secret to a better life is simply choosing people and habits that calm your nervous system? In this deeply personal solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh opens up about a recent experience that forced him to slow down and re-evaluate what truly matters. After facing some unexpected health challenges, he found clarit…
…
continue reading

1
360 | Robert Edward Grant | Leveraging Your Sacred Mystical Power to Create Greatness
1:00:32
1:00:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:32What if everything we believed was limiting us… is actually the key to unlocking our full potential? In this fascinating episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by polymath and visionary thinker Robert Edward Grant for a deep dive into consciousness, human potential, and the illusions that keep us stuck. From the telepathic abilities of …
…
continue reading

1
Pull Up a Chair: CEO Lessons on Trust, Feedback, and Growth
55:02
55:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:02In this premiere episode of Your Seat at the Table, hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin dive into the most important — and often overlooked — topic for CEOs and executive leaders: trust. Discover why choosing who to listen to is critical for growth, how to avoid dangerous "echo chambers," and what great leaders really look for in feedback. Whether yo…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Malorie Nicole | The Abundance Decision: The Intersection of a Thriving Business and Fulfilling Life
1:09:28
1:09:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:28Picture a life where your business not only survives but thrives, seamlessly blending with a life that fulfills your every aspiration. Setbacks become stepping stones, success is measured by impact, and collaboration fuels both professional and personal growth. Your integrated life allows for a harmonious balance, enabling cherished moments and per…
…
continue reading

1
Darius Classic | Investing 101: How Entrepreneurs Should Approach Investing Differently
24:59
24:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:59Ever wondered how exiting a successful business can turn your financial world upside down? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I am flying solo to share some hard-earned lessons from my own journey through entrepreneurship and investing. I dive into the unexpected challenges that hit after you exit a business and how they can impact your fina…
…
continue reading

1
359 | Ryan Begelman (Part 2) | What It Really Takes to Step Away from Your Company Without Regret
1:03:14
1:03:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:14What if selling your company didn’t mean letting go—but leveling up, on your terms? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Ryan Begelman returns for part two to share the behind-the-scenes story of how he scaled, sold, and systematized a company—without losing his sense of joy. From building a business with friends to generating millions in addi…
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Morgan Housel | Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes
1:00:47
1:00:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:47Ever thought about the power of timeless lessons in steering your journey through the unpredictable? Morgan Housel, a two-time winner of the Best in Business Award from the Society of American Business Editors and Writers, and winner of the New York Times Sidney Award, brings forth a treasure trove of wisdom with his latest book, Same as Ever: A Gu…
…
continue reading

1
Darius Classic | The World’s Greatest Word: NO
15:27
15:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:27Ever wonder why some of the most successful people seem unfazed by rejection? Today I am flying solo to talk about the concept of “collecting nos” – a powerful mindset shift that can transform how you can approach challenges and opportunities. Discover why every “no” is a valuable step towards a “yes” and how it can fuel your growth and resilience.…
…
continue reading

1
358 | Peter Singer | The Ethics of Doing Good: A Wake-Up Call for the Comfortable
51:20
51:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:20What if doing the most good was simpler—and more within reach—than you ever imagined? In this powerful episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by world-renowned moral philosopher Peter Singer for a conversation that will challenge how you think about ethics, generosity, and your role in making the world better. Peter, best known for his …
…
continue reading

1
TGM Classic | Anson Whitmer | Redefining Men's Mental Health: Breaking Stereotypes and Seeking Solutions
1:02:05
1:02:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:05How are we rewriting the narrative around men's mental health challenges and solutions? In today's ever-changing landscape of mental health awareness, there is a growing recognition that the narrative around men's mental health needs a significant rewrite. It is a tale of strength found in vulnerability, of support forged in humor, and solutions in…
…
continue reading