Episodios

  • 357 | Shaahin Cheyene | Billion: How I Became King Of The Thrill Pill Cult

    357 | Shaahin Cheyene | Billion: How I Became King Of The Thrill Pill Cult
    May 21 2025
    What if you could build million-dollar businesses and actually enjoy your life? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Shaahin Cheyene — entrepreneur, author, and founder of PodcastCola — for a conversation packed with insights and energy. They dive into Shaahin’s journey from launching groundbreaking products to helping others grow their influence through podcasting. Along the way, they explore what it really takes to scale successfully, why self-belief is your greatest asset, and how Shaahin is helping others break into Amazon selling — with a special gift just for listeners. You won't want to miss this one! In this episode, Darius and Shaahin will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction (05:28) Shaahin's Origin Story (17:37) The Rise of Herbal Ecstasy (22:02) Challenges and Government Regulations (24:03) From Billion Dollar Businesses to Vaping Innovations (26:25) Crazy Stories from the Business World (30:03) The Insanity of Cash-Based Operations (32:47) Cultural Background and Family Expectations (36:46) Finding Your Own Path to Success (39:04) The Balance of Ruthlessness and Kindness (44:16) Current Projects and Future Aspirations Shaahin Cheyene is an award-winning entrepreneur, Amazon expert, inventor, author, and filmmaker based in Los Angeles, California. Born in Iran, Shaahin launched his entrepreneurial journey at just 15 years old with the creation of Herbal Ecstasy, the smart drug that ignited a global movement. Over the last 30 years, he has built a career spanning more than a billion dollars in revenue. As CEO and Chairman of Accelerated Intelligence, Shaahin helps brand owners scale their online sales across Amazon, eBay, Shopify, and Walmart. He’s also the founder of PodcastCola, the world’s largest podcast agency, and the creator of Amazon Mastery, a course designed to help others succeed on Amazon. Today, Shaahin continues to mentor rising entrepreneurs while leading a thriving business empire from his home in Venice Beach, California. Sponsored by: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Connect with Shaahin: Website: https://www.shaahincheyenne.com/ Website: https://podcastcola.com/ Website: https://viralmirage.com/ Email: darkzefs@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaahincheyene 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
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    1 h y 2 m
  • TGM Classic | Michael Zagaris | A Visual Archive of Sound: The Journey of a Rock 'n' Roll Photographer

    TGM Classic | Michael Zagaris | A Visual Archive of Sound: The Journey of a Rock 'n' Roll Photographer
    May 19 2025
    What qualities set apart a legendary rock photographer whose work resonates with the soul of a generation and captures the spirit of an entire era? In the heart of rock 'n' roll's whirlwind, Michael Zagaris emerges as an iconic figure, the man behind the lens who documented the defining moments of music history. With a camera as his tool, he captured the raw energy, vulnerability, and unadulterated authenticity of the legends that graced the world's most legendary stages. His photographs transcend mere visuals, serving as sonic snapshots that pulse with the rhythms of a bygone era. Yet, beyond the photographic frame, Michael remains a mystic seeker of life's hidden melodies, an artist with a relentless drive for the extraordinary. His story is an intricately woven tapestry of artistic integrity, the allure of adventure, and a relentless pursuit of authenticity that defined the rock 'n' roll era. This episode of The Greatness Machine explores Michael's transition from law school to rock 'n' roll photography, his work with iconic musicians, and his role as a documentarian during the civil rights movement, highlighting the inspiring journey of an artist who followed his true calling against conventional expectations. Topics include: Michael looks back at how he started taking pictures at a very young age Michael shares what it was like working with Robert Kennedy What introduced Michael to rock ‘n’ roll photography Michael reflects on the meaning of life Michael spills the craziest experiences he had as a rock photographer And other topics… Connect with Michael: Website: https://morrisonhotelgallery.com/collections/michael-zagaris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-zagaris-011b857 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelzagaris/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.zagaris/ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Field-Play-Years-NFL-Photography/dp/1951836766 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: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.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
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    1 h y 11 m
  • Darius Classic | How to Build Your Relationship Balance Sheet

    Darius Classic | How to Build Your Relationship Balance Sheet
    May 16 2025
    Are your relationships lifting you up or weighing you down? Today, I am flying solo to illustrate how positive relationships can make a big difference in life. Drawing from my own experiences and insights, this episode prompts listeners to consider the true value of the relationships they nurture. Just as assets contribute to financial prosperity, positive relationships propel us forward on our journey towards greatness. Similarly, liabilities–such as toxic friendships, draining business partnerships, or unsupportive environments–impede progress and hinder personal development. This episode of The Greatness Machine will prompt the listeners to think about whether the people around them are helping them grow or holding them back. By thinking of relationships like assets (things that help us) and liabilities (things that hold us back), this episode will help the audience understand the importance of surrounding themselves with people who make them feel good and help them succeed. Topics include: The benefits of viewing life in terms of assets and liabilities The importance of assessing relationships as assets and liabilities Why it matters to set boundaries with negative influences And other topics… 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 Sponsored by: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.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
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    21 m
  • 356 | Robert Mazur | Former Undercover Money Launderer Tell All

    356 | Robert Mazur | Former Undercover Money Launderer Tell All
    May 14 2025
    What does it take to bring down a global drug empire—without losing your life or your soul in the process? In this gripping episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with legendary undercover agent Robert Mazur, whose covert work infiltrated some of the world’s most dangerous drug cartels. From near-death encounters and million-dollar stings to the emotional cost of living a double life, Robert shares jaw-dropping stories straight from his time posing as a high-level money launderer. In this episode, Darius and Robert will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Robert Mazur (02:30) Robert's Journey to Undercover Work (06:02) The Medellin Cartel Operation (12:29) The Complexity of Money Laundering (20:04) The Demand Side of Drug Abuse (24:06) Hollywood vs. Reality in Drug Trafficking (26:46) The Balancing Act of Undercover Work (29:25) Addiction to Information and Success (38:27) The Toll of Undercover Life on Family (42:35) Service to Country and Personal Sacrifice (44:34) Books, Movies, and Continuing the Mission (49:01) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Robert Mazur is a former U.S. federal undercover agent and one of the world’s leading experts on money laundering and financial crime. Posing as a mob-connected money launderer, he infiltrated drug cartels and corrupt global banks—work that led to major arrests and a $500,000 bounty on his head. He’s the New York Times bestselling author of The Infiltrator, which inspired the film starring Bryan Cranston. Today, Robert uses his deep insider knowledge to help businesses and governments better understand and combat financial crime. Sponsored by: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Connect with Robert: Website: https://www.robertmazur.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobertMazurOfficial/ Twitter: https://x.com/robertmazur/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Infiltrator-Against-Biggest-Cartel-History-ebook/dp/B002JCJ6S4 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
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    1 h
  • TGM Classic | Robert Brooker | Beyond Startups: The 20-Year Odyssey of Business Acquisition

    TGM Classic | Robert Brooker | Beyond Startups: The 20-Year Odyssey of Business Acquisition
    May 12 2025
    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: The importance of aligning business ideas with the current market conditions The value of peer groups in the entrepreneurial and investing communities The need to explore opportunities and hustle in a competitive market Robert shares an important criteria for business acquisition Robert discusses two models for managing acquired businesses The responsibility of entrepreneurs to ensure the business’s viability Robert talks about the transition from being a business owner to full-time investing And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. 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/whoompdarius/ 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
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    1 h y 13 m
  • Darius Classic | Bigger Conversations = Bigger Success

    Darius Classic | Bigger Conversations = Bigger Success
    May 9 2025
    Do you ever think about how the conversations you engage in affect the trajectory of your life? Each interaction leaves an indelible mark on our journey, shaping our perspectives, decisions, and ultimately, our trajectory. We shape our paths towards personal and professional fulfillment in a profound way by the quality and content of our dialogues, whether it is sharing insights with colleagues, seeking guidance from mentors, or sharing heartfelt conversations with loved ones. Today, I am flying solo to navigate the intricate web of conversations, unveiling their significance in shaping our destinies. I will also highlight the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and self-awareness in enriching conversation quality and charting a course toward desired objectives. This episode of The Greatness Machine will encourage the listeners to reflect on their own interactions, urging them to assess the environments they inhabit, the discussions they participate in, and the value they contribute. Topics include: The direct correlation between the quality of conversations and the individuals involved with our success and progress The importance of ongoing learning and adaptability in enhancing conversation quality and ensuring our contributions remain meaningful The significance of establishing credibility and earning invitations to consequential discussions by enriching conversations with valuable insights Self-awareness and reflection as essential practices for assessing our current position and aligning our aspirations And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.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
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    17 m
  • 355 | Dr. Geoff Smart | Why Most Hiring Practices Fail–and What Actually Works

    355 | Dr. Geoff Smart | Why Most Hiring Practices Fail–and What Actually Works
    May 7 2025
    How do you really know if someone is the right fit for your team—or your company’s future? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Dr. Geoff Smart, founder of GH Smart and author of the bestselling book Who, to break down what separates successful hiring from costly mistakes. Geoff reveals the power of evidence-based assessments, why psych tests often fall short, and how intense curiosity—not stress—is the key to unlocking a candidate's true potential. From helping Fortune 500 companies select CEOs to coaching emerging leaders, Geoff shares stories, strategies, and myths about the hiring process—plus, why the "sell me this pen" test is just bad business. In this episode, Darius and Geoff will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Geoff Smart and His Journey (02:55) The Importance of Hiring and Core Values (06:08) Geoff's Origin Story and Founding GH Smart (09:00) Cultural Fit and Hiring Process (11:55) The Role of Core Values in Business (14:52) Firing with Respect and Responsibility (18:05) A Players vs. B Players in Hiring (20:54) Adapting to Different Stages of Business Growth (30:05) Identifying A-Players for Growth (34:02) The Importance of Leadership in Organizations (40:25) Effective Interview Techniques (43:00) Assessing CEOs and Leadership Roles (48:44) Onboarding and Post-Hiring Strategies (55:20) Overcoming Fear of Failure Dr. Geoff Smart is the chairman and founder of ghSMART, a leadership advisory firm that helps CEOs, entrepreneurs, and public-sector leaders build high-performing teams. Founded in 1995, ghSMART is recognized for its rigorous hiring methods, impactful leadership development, and a culture of excellence. The firm has topped Glassdoor and Vault rankings and published several bestselling books, including “Who: The A Method for Hiring”. Geoff holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and was mentored by management legend Peter Drucker. Beyond business, he’s committed to public service and leadership development through programs like the Colorado Governors Fellowship and his work with CiviCo. Sponsored by: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. Connect with Geoff: Website: https://geoffsmart.com/ Website: https://ghsmart.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drgeoffsmart/ 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
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    1 h y 7 m
  • TGM Classic | Gay Hendricks | Finding Your Genius Zone: Embracing Your Genius Zone Daily Transformation

    TGM Classic | Gay Hendricks | Finding Your Genius Zone: Embracing Your Genius Zone Daily Transformation
    May 5 2025
    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: Gay looks back experiencing “out of Hendricks” moment after a fall on ice Gay opens up about his personal struggles with obesity The importance of choosing actions that align with a deeper sense of consciousness Gay underlines the transformative power of conscious food choices Family influence on body image and shame Gay shares a method of replacing shame with positive affirmations Family influence and overcoming past conditions Identifying and transforming limiting beliefs The significance of being open to learning Cultivating genius and finding your “genius zone” Gay details his upcoming book Your Big Leap Year And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Get started free or save 50% for 3 months with code GREATNESS at brevo.com/greatness. Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today! Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS. Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine. ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial. Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius. 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/whoompdarius/ 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
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    1 h y 4 m
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