The Greatness Machine

Ever wonder what separates true champions from the rest? It's not just talent — it's how they face adversity head-on. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with former NFL player, acclaimed speaker, and personal development coach Bo Eason to dive deep into the mindset required to achieve greatness. Bo shares powerful insights on why struggle is not just inevitable but essential for growth. From the lessons he learned on the football field to his experiences as a performer and coach, Bo emphasizes the importance of resilience and the mindset shift that separates champions from the rest. In this episode, Darius and Bo will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Background (04:01) Bo Eason's Origin Story (10:30) The Power of Belief and Sacrifice (18:56) The Journey to the NFL (25:30) Transitioning from NFL to Theater (32:29) From NFL to Theater: A New Journey (34:55) Mastery Equals Mastery: The Power of Skill Transfer (40:31) The Importance of Patience in Mastery (44:28) Resilience Through Rejection: The Path to Greatness (51:01) The Value of Hard Work Over Winning (56:06) Embracing Struggle: The Key to Success (01:02:40) Eliminating Barriers: The Path to Greatness Bo Eason, a former NFL player for the Houston Oilers and San Francisco 49ers, transitioned from the football field to the stage with his acclaimed one-man play Runt of the Litter, which premiered on Broadway and earned praise from The New York Times. Now a sought-after speaker and trainer, Bo coaches top athletes, executives, and entrepreneurs on powerful communication and leadership, working with clients like Morgan Stanley, Mass Mutual, and Merrill Lynch. Sponsored by: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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 Bo: Website: https://boeason.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boeasonofficial/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boeason21/  Text “Guide” and send to (323)-310-5504 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 wonder what separates true champions from the rest? It's not just talent — it's how they face adversity head-on. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with former NFL player, acclaimed speaker, and personal development coach Bo Eason to dive deep into the mindset required to achieve greatness. Bo shares powerful insights on why struggle is not just inevitable but essential for growth. From the lessons he learned on the football field to his experiences as a performer and coach, Bo emphasizes the importance of resilience and the mindset shift that separates champions from the rest. In this episode, Darius and Bo will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Background (04:01) Bo Eason's Origin Story (10:30) The Power of Belief and Sacrifice (18:56) The Journey to the NFL (25:30) Transitioning from NFL to Theater (32:29) From NFL to Theater: A New Journey (34:55) Mastery Equals Mastery: The Power of Skill Transfer (40:31) The Importance of Patience in Mastery (44:28) Resilience Through Rejection: The Path to Greatness (51:01) The Value of Hard Work Over Winning (56:06) Embracing Struggle: The Key to Success (01:02:40) Eliminating Barriers: The Path to Greatness Bo Eason, a former NFL player for the Houston Oilers and San Francisco 49ers, transitioned from the football field to the stage with his acclaimed one-man play Runt of the Litter, which premiered on Broadway and earned praise from The New York Times. Now a sought-after speaker and trainer, Bo coaches top athletes, executives, and entrepreneurs on powerful communication and leadership, working with clients like Morgan Stanley, Mass Mutual, and Merrill Lynch. Sponsored by: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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 Bo: Website: https://boeason.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boeasonofficial/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boeason21/  Text “Guide” and send to (323)-310-5504 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 wondered how million-dollar deals happen behind closed doors? CL Turner, III, Founder and Managing Partner of Crescendo Capital Partners, underlines the critical role of building personal connections with founder-owner operators in private equity transactions, making it clear that it is more than just business; it is personal. He explains how the private equity industry goes beyond simply closing deals and focuses on building personal relationships.  Drawing from his own life experiences and the firm’s winning formula, CL reveals their unique strategy at Crescendo Capital Partners of convincing business owners to sell below market rates, offering them a second bite at the apple.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and CL talk about the dynamic world of private equity and the art of thriving in it, highlighting the significance of hard work and determination in becoming a successful figure in the industry. The interview takes an unexpected turn as CL shares his passion for creating music and the joy he finds in serendipitous moments.  Topics include: What inspired CL to start Crescendo Capital Partners CL talks about his passion for music and his plans to release songs every year Transitioning from an intermediary to a principal in the investment world Why it is important to assess the malleability of founder-operators  CL shares three key elements to succeed in private equity And other topics… Connect with CL: Website: https://crescendocap.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-l-turner-iii-07915a2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cl.turneriii/  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: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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

Ever wondered how million-dollar deals happen behind closed doors? CL Turner, III, Founder and Managing Partner of Crescendo Capital Partners, underlines the critical role of building personal connections with founder-owner operators in private equity transactions, making it clear that it is more than just business; it is personal. He explains how the private equity industry goes beyond simply closing deals and focuses on building personal relationships.  Drawing from his own life experiences and the firm’s winning formula, CL reveals their unique strategy at Crescendo Capital Partners of convincing business owners to sell below market rates, offering them a second bite at the apple.  In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and CL talk about the dynamic world of private equity and the art of thriving in it, highlighting the significance of hard work and determination in becoming a successful figure in the industry. The interview takes an unexpected turn as CL shares his passion for creating music and the joy he finds in serendipitous moments.  Topics include: What inspired CL to start Crescendo Capital Partners CL talks about his passion for music and his plans to release songs every year Transitioning from an intermediary to a principal in the investment world Why it is important to assess the malleability of founder-operators  CL shares three key elements to succeed in private equity And other topics… Connect with CL: Website: https://crescendocap.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/c-l-turner-iii-07915a2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cl.turneriii/  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: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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

Sometimes, the greatest breakthroughs come not in moments of triumph, but in the quiet unraveling of everything we thought we had figured out. In this powerful solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh takes us deep into a personal journey that reshaped his life. For the first time, Darius opens up about a transformative moment in the summer of 2022—when he confronted a lifelong battle with anxiety head-on during a 30-day stay in Oaxaca, Mexico. Despite achieving financial success and building a dream life, Darius found himself overwhelmed by anxiety, unable to enjoy the present, and haunted by fears of the future and regrets of the past. Stripped of his usual distractions, he was forced to sit with his thoughts and emotions—leading to a profound realization about ego, identity, and the illusion of control. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Personal Transformation (02:49) The Struggle with Anxiety (06:10) The Turning Point in Oaxaca (11:58) Discovering New Perspectives Sponsored by: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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

Sometimes, the greatest breakthroughs come not in moments of triumph, but in the quiet unraveling of everything we thought we had figured out. In this powerful solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius Mirshahzadeh takes us deep into a personal journey that reshaped his life. For the first time, Darius opens up about a transformative moment in the summer of 2022—when he confronted a lifelong battle with anxiety head-on during a 30-day stay in Oaxaca, Mexico. Despite achieving financial success and building a dream life, Darius found himself overwhelmed by anxiety, unable to enjoy the present, and haunted by fears of the future and regrets of the past. Stripped of his usual distractions, he was forced to sit with his thoughts and emotions—leading to a profound realization about ego, identity, and the illusion of control. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Personal Transformation (02:49) The Struggle with Anxiety (06:10) The Turning Point in Oaxaca (11:58) Discovering New Perspectives Sponsored by: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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

What does it truly mean to lead with purpose? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Howard Behar, former President of Starbucks International and a servant leadership icon. Howard shares invaluable lessons on authenticity, vulnerability, and the importance of putting people first. From navigating insecurities to building a personal mission statement, Howard's insights offer a masterclass in leading with integrity. Discover why patience pays, why persistence matters, and how to align your purpose with your passion. Plus, hear his perspective on long-term thinking in business and the impact of shareholder-driven decision-making. In this episode, Darius and Howard will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Howard Behar (02:16) Howard's Immigrant Roots and Early Influences (06:54) Transitioning to Starbucks: The Journey Begins (10:32) Navigating Exponential Growth at Starbucks (16:59) Leadership and Building a Strong Team (21:30) People-Centric Philosophy at Starbucks (24:51) Partnership Dynamics with Howard Schultz (28:12) The Essence of Servant Leadership (31:23) Navigating Economic Challenges (34:02) The Impact of Public Markets (39:36) Qualities of Great Leaders (41:34) Lessons from Experience Howard Behar is a renowned business leader, author, speaker, and mentor, celebrated for his servant leadership philosophy. As the former President of Starbucks North America and founding President of Starbucks International, he played a pivotal role in the company's growth from 28 stores to over 15,000 across five continents. Howard's leadership principles, like “The Person Who Sweeps the Floor Should Choose the Broom,” continue to inspire leaders globally. He currently serves on several corporate and nonprofit boards and is the author of "It’s Not About the Coffee: Leadership Principles from a Life at Starbucks." Sponsored by: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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 Howard: Website: http://howardbehar.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-behar-24ba274/ Twitter: https://x.com/NotAboutCoffee  Email: hb@howardbehar.com Contact: 206-9727-776 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 does it truly mean to lead with purpose? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Howard Behar, former President of Starbucks International and a servant leadership icon. Howard shares invaluable lessons on authenticity, vulnerability, and the importance of putting people first. From navigating insecurities to building a personal mission statement, Howard's insights offer a masterclass in leading with integrity. Discover why patience pays, why persistence matters, and how to align your purpose with your passion. Plus, hear his perspective on long-term thinking in business and the impact of shareholder-driven decision-making. In this episode, Darius and Howard will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Howard Behar (02:16) Howard's Immigrant Roots and Early Influences (06:54) Transitioning to Starbucks: The Journey Begins (10:32) Navigating Exponential Growth at Starbucks (16:59) Leadership and Building a Strong Team (21:30) People-Centric Philosophy at Starbucks (24:51) Partnership Dynamics with Howard Schultz (28:12) The Essence of Servant Leadership (31:23) Navigating Economic Challenges (34:02) The Impact of Public Markets (39:36) Qualities of Great Leaders (41:34) Lessons from Experience Howard Behar is a renowned business leader, author, speaker, and mentor, celebrated for his servant leadership philosophy. As the former President of Starbucks North America and founding President of Starbucks International, he played a pivotal role in the company's growth from 28 stores to over 15,000 across five continents. Howard's leadership principles, like “The Person Who Sweeps the Floor Should Choose the Broom,” continue to inspire leaders globally. He currently serves on several corporate and nonprofit boards and is the author of "It’s Not About the Coffee: Leadership Principles from a Life at Starbucks." Sponsored by: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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 Howard: Website: http://howardbehar.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-behar-24ba274/ Twitter: https://x.com/NotAboutCoffee  Email: hb@howardbehar.com Contact: 206-9727-776 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 wondered how to reboot your life’s operating system for boundless success and purpose? In a world filled with challenges, demands, and distractions, many of us have experienced moments when we yearn for a fresh start, a way to unleash our full potential and discover true success and purpose. But how can one truly reboot their life's operating system to reach new heights and fulfill their dreams? The answer might lie in a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. Mike Koenigs, a bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, speaker, and interactive online personality and influencer, takes a look back at that time when he had a transformative experience that turned his life around. He emphasizes the importance of shedding limiting beliefs, and seeking coaching and also underlines the significance of fostering connections with remarkable people. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Mike Koenigs cover essential topics, including maximizing value creation, understanding personal strengths, transformative experiences, and the power of storytelling. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and building a strong personal brand. Topics include: Maximizing value creation and avoiding unnecessary work The importance of understanding one’s strengths and tendencies Mike shares his transformative experience that changed his life The importance of seeking coaching, being part of groups, and attending events to expand horizons Mike talks about Dan Sullivan’s DOS Framework The value of having a strong personal brand before exiting a business Mike reveals one key to personal growth and happiness The power of crafting a compelling story and how it can transform your life Upgrading your identity and operating system to eliminate self-imposed limitations And other topics… Connect with Mike: Website: https://www.mikekoenigs.com/ Website: https://www.paidforlife.com/ Website: https://www.referralparty.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekoenigs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikekoenigs/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeKoenigsReal  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: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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

Ever wondered how to reboot your life’s operating system for boundless success and purpose? In a world filled with challenges, demands, and distractions, many of us have experienced moments when we yearn for a fresh start, a way to unleash our full potential and discover true success and purpose. But how can one truly reboot their life's operating system to reach new heights and fulfill their dreams? The answer might lie in a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. Mike Koenigs, a bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, speaker, and interactive online personality and influencer, takes a look back at that time when he had a transformative experience that turned his life around. He emphasizes the importance of shedding limiting beliefs, and seeking coaching and also underlines the significance of fostering connections with remarkable people. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius and Mike Koenigs cover essential topics, including maximizing value creation, understanding personal strengths, transformative experiences, and the power of storytelling. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and building a strong personal brand. Topics include: Maximizing value creation and avoiding unnecessary work The importance of understanding one’s strengths and tendencies Mike shares his transformative experience that changed his life The importance of seeking coaching, being part of groups, and attending events to expand horizons Mike talks about Dan Sullivan’s DOS Framework The value of having a strong personal brand before exiting a business Mike reveals one key to personal growth and happiness The power of crafting a compelling story and how it can transform your life Upgrading your identity and operating system to eliminate self-imposed limitations And other topics… Connect with Mike: Website: https://www.mikekoenigs.com/ Website: https://www.paidforlife.com/ Website: https://www.referralparty.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekoenigs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikekoenigs/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeKoenigsReal  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: 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. NPR Tech Unheard Podcast: Tune into Tech Unheard from Arm and NPM—wherever you get your podcasts. 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