Épisodes

  • 382 | Kymber and Alexis McClay (The Naven Twins) | How Two Sisters Built a Fashion Empire and Found Wellness on the Other Side

    382 | Kymber and Alexis McClay (The Naven Twins) | How Two Sisters Built a Fashion Empire and Found Wellness on the Other Side
    Oct 1 2025
    What happens when twin sisters transform their bond into a powerhouse partnership that builds businesses and changes lives? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Alexis and Kymber McClay, founders of NAVEN and other ventures, to dive into their journey as sisters, entrepreneurs, and seekers of personal growth. From navigating family dynamics to building a global fashion brand, their story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of aligned vision. You’ll hear how they turned challenges, like years of not speaking, into a deeper bond, and how personal development, spirituality, and even plant medicine played a role in shaping the way they live, work, and lead today. In this episode, Darius, Kymber, and Alexis will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the Naven Twins (05:49) Origins of the Naven Twins (09:43) The Journey into Fashion (19:21) Navigating the Fashion Industry (24:08) Transitioning to Wellness and Longevity (29:02) The Dynamics of Twin Entrepreneurship (29:28) Navigating Business Roles and Boundaries (32:03) Healing Through Shared Experiences (34:18) Exploring Spiritual Practices and Plant Medicine (40:15) Transitioning to Health and Wellness (50:17) The Importance of Holistic Health Approaches (58:53) Overcoming Burnout and Finding Balance Kymber and Alexis McClay are seasoned entrepreneurs with over 16 years of experience building and scaling lifestyle and fashion brands. Their ventures have generated over $20 million in sales, with designs worn by global celebrities and sold in top retailers worldwide. Featured in Forbes, Elle, and more, they’ve also built a powerful digital presence and championed women’s causes as award-winning philanthropists. Today, through their wellness brand KOA LIFE, they bring their personal skincare journey full circle, offering products that connect authentically with consumers. Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Kymber: Website: https://www.navenmethod.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kymberleymcclay Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepingitkymber/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kymberley.mcclay/ Connect with Alexis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexismcclay Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexismcclay/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexis.mcclay/ Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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 et 10 min
  • TGM Classic | Bill Perkins | Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life

    TGM Classic | Bill Perkins | Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life
    Sep 29 2025
    When time and money seem like limited resources, the idea of maximizing both can seem impossible. But what if it were possible to achieve true abundance in both? How would it be if our desire for personal fulfillment and financial abundance could be harmonized? Bill Perkins, a hedge fund manager, entrepreneur, author, and professional poker player, has discovered invaluable insights into the intersection of money and meaning. Through his book, Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life, he challenges the traditional notion of hoarding wealth for the future. He advocates for living life to the fullest now, making meaningful experiences a priority over accumulating wealth that may never be fully enjoyed. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by Bill Perkins to explore practical strategies for maximizing both your life and your finances. Drawing from his remarkable journey and the principles outlined in his book, Bill shares what it takes to create a life that is truly worth living. Topics include: The importance of living life to the fullest and maximizing experiences Bill explains Die with Zero and emphasizes the value of spending wealth strategically Being off autopilot and deeply understanding one’s authentic desires and values The benefits of optimizing one’s life in terms of money and time Enjoying the journey of life rather than solely focusing on achieving financial success Why it matters to balance entrepreneurship and relationships Bill warns against falling into the trap of pursuing wealth or status for ego gratification Aligning actions with long-term fulfillment rather than societal expectations And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Bill: Twitter: https://twitter.com/bp22 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billperkins/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Die-Zero-Getting-Your-Money/dp/0358099765 Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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 et 4 min
  • Darius Classic | Success and Failure Aren’t Loyal

    Darius Classic | Success and Failure Aren’t Loyal
    Sep 26 2025
    Do you define yourself by your successes or your failures? Many of us tie our self-worth to our accomplishments or setbacks, but what happens when success fades or failure strikes? The truth is, neither defines who we are. Today, I am flying solo to talk about why you should not be attached to success or failure. Through personal stories from my entrepreneurial journey, I will share the struggles of losing friendships during tough times, the painful lessons about ego and loyalty, and how I came to understand that our worth is not tied to what we achieve–or fail to achieve. In this episode of The Greatness Machine, I will unpack the importance of detaching yourself from the outcomes of success and failure, how to protect your emotional well-being when dynamics shift, and why loyalty should always be seen as a gift, not an expectation. I will also explore how failure, when embraced with the right mindset, can be a powerful catalyst for exponential growth, and why success is simply a result of the right actions rather than a measure of your worth. Topics include: Success and failure as integral parts of the journey How rapid growth can obscure vulnerabilities The influence of personal emotions on business leadership The effects of economic shifts on businesses The importance of setting personal and professional boundaries The pain of exclusion and loss Separating identity from success and failure And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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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    26 min
  • 381 | Sam Goodner | Like Clockwork: Run Your Business with Swiss Army Precision

    381 | Sam Goodner | Like Clockwork: Run Your Business with Swiss Army Precision
    Sep 24 2025
    What separates companies that stall from those that scale? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Sam Goodner, entrepreneur, author of “Like Clockwork: Run Your Business with Swiss Army Precision,” and former CEO of Catapult Systems, one of the fastest growing tech consulting firms in the U.S. Sam shares decades of wisdom from building and scaling businesses, breaking down the systems and disciplines that drive sustainable growth. From creating clarity across your organization to codifying best practices and delegating decision-making, Sam explains how leaders can step out of the weeds and empower their teams to thrive. He also reveals the number one barrier he has overcome on his own path to greatness and how mastering the use of time is key to building the life you want. In this episode, Darius and Sam will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:51) Sam Goodner's Entrepreneurial Journey (05:47) The Importance of Military Service (11:33) The Swiss Army Experience and Its Impact (17:20) Transitioning to Entrepreneurship (22:59) Building Successful Partnerships (28:44) Acquisition Strategies and Insights (34:40) Writing the Book: “Like Clockwork” (40:24) Execution and Business Growth (46:13) Creating a Culture of Accountability (51:41) Final Thoughts and Greatness Question Sam Goodner is a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and mentor recognized for turning bold ideas into thriving businesses. A dual citizen of Switzerland and the U.S., his career spans from serving as a Swiss Army mountain infantry officer to being named an Inc. 500 CEO and Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. He founded Catapult Systems in 1993, growing it into the world’s top Microsoft Systems Integrator before its 2013 acquisition, and later built and sold multiple tech ventures. As president and chief strategy officer of FlashParking, he helped scale the startup into a billion-dollar global leader. Today, Sam devotes his time to advising and mentoring entrepreneurs while pursuing his passion for lifelong learning and global exploration. Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Sam: Website: https://samgoodner.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samgoodner/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Like-Clockwork-Business-Swiss-Precision/dp/B0FLQK1Y8S Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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 et 6 min
  • TGM Classic | Michael Easter | The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self

    TGM Classic | Michael Easter | The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self
    Sep 22 2025
    What if discomfort was the key to unlocking your full potential? This thought-provoking question challenges conventional wisdom and invites us to reconsider our relationship with discomfort. While discomfort is often seen as something to avoid, discomfort can be the catalyst for achieving new heights of personal growth and achievement. Michael Easter, the New York Times bestselling author of Scarcity Brain and The Comfort Crisis, challenges us to consider discomfort as a powerful catalyst for unlocking our true potential. Through his exploration of nutrition, behavior change, and the transformative impact of extreme experiences, he prompts us to embrace discomfort as a pathway to growth and self-discovery. By delving into the nuances of discomfort, Michael shares how facing challenges head-on can lead to profound personal development and resilience. Whether it is enduring the relentless cold in the Arctic or adopting new dietary habits, his insights underscore the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones to realize our fullest capabilities. This episode of The Greatness Machine will serve as a poignant reminder that greatness is often forged in the crucible of discomfort. Topics include: The importance of embracing short-term discomfort for long-term benefits Michael explains the concept of the “2% mindset” The concept of awareness and choice Michael discusses the idea of Misogi by Marcus Elliot The benefits of pushing boundaries and taking on challenges Why it matters to incorporate movement into daily routines Removing bad habits as a precursor to adopting good ones And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Michael: Website: https://eastermichael.com/ Website: https://www.twopct.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Michael_Easter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael_easter/ Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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 et 9 min
  • 380 | What Do You Want Out of Life (Part 2)

    380 | What Do You Want Out of Life (Part 2)
    Sep 19 2025
    What do you really want from life and how do you define the criteria for your next big move? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius takes us deeper into his journey of clarity and alignment, sharing how he’s mapping out the values and principles that guide his next chapter. From choosing freedom and connection over energy-draining relationships, to defining what kind of businesses he wants to invest in, Darius walks us through the process of creating a personal criteria map for meaningful success. You’ll hear his reflections on purpose-driven entrepreneurship, leveraging strengths, and why working with heart-centered people matters more than chasing profits. If you’ve ever wondered how to align your professional path with your deepest values, this episode is for you. In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Self-Reflection (00:58) Defining Life Goals and Values (03:23) Exploring Themes of Happiness and Love (05:48) The Importance of Fun and Adventure (09:13) Understanding Accomplishment and Freedom (11:46) The Quest for Sovereignty and Financial Freedom (14:38) Building Meaningful Connections (16:01) Strategizing for Future Projects (25:27) Conclusion and Call to Action Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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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    31 min
  • 379 | Shadé Zahrai | How Reframing Challenges Can Change the Way You Lead and Live

    379 | Shadé Zahrai | How Reframing Challenges Can Change the Way You Lead and Live
    Sep 17 2025
    What if the setbacks in your life were actually the secret fuel for your success? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Shadé Zahrai, award-winning leadership strategist, TEDx speaker, and co-founder of Influenceo Global. Shadé shares her journey from law and corporate consulting to entrepreneurship, revealing how resilience, storytelling, and authenticity helped her build a global brand. She explains the power of reframing challenges, why self-belief is the foundation of success, and how leaders can inspire teams through emotional intelligence. From navigating uncertainty to building confidence through action, Shadé offers practical strategies for leading with influence and connecting on a deeper human level. This is a powerful conversation about courage, growth, and leading with heart. In this episode, Darius and Shade will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:49) Shadé's Origin Story (05:54) The Journey Through Corporate Life (08:41) The Importance of Self-Trust (11:28) Transitioning to Entrepreneurship (14:38) Building a Personal Brand on Social Media (17:28) The Power of Visibility and Opportunity (20:14) The Role of Creative Outlets (23:20) Overcoming Adversity and Failure (26:18) The Science of Self-Doubt and Trust (28:50) The Launch of Influenceo and LinkedIn Success (31:45) The Big Trust Community and Book Launch (34:48) Final Thoughts and The Greatness Question Shadé Zahrai is a behavioral strategist, peak performance educator, and co-lead of Influenceo Global. A former lawyer with an MBA and PhD in organizational behavior, she advises Fortune 500 companies on leadership, performance, and career fulfillment. Her viral content has reached over 300 million views, she teaches more than 7 million students on LinkedIn Learning, and her TEDx talks have inspired audiences worldwide. Featured in outlets like The New York Times and Fast Company, Shadé is dedicated to making high-performance strategies accessible to all. Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Shadé: Website: https://www.shadezahrai.com/ LinkedIn: https://th.linkedin.com/in/shadezahrai Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shadezahrai/ Book: https://www.shadezahrai.com/bigtrust Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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 et 7 min
  • TGM Classic | Robin Sharma | The Wealth Money Can’t Buy:The 8 Hidden Habits to Live Your Richest Life

    TGM Classic | Robin Sharma | The Wealth Money Can’t Buy:The 8 Hidden Habits to Live Your Richest Life
    Sep 15 2025
    What makes you wealthy? In a world where success often takes center stage, we tend to equate wealth solely with the size of our bank account. But what if true wealth transcends monetary success? What if it encompasses something much deeper and more fulfilling? Robin Sharma, renowned author and leadership expert, challenges us to redefine our understanding of wealth in The Wealth Money Can’t Buy: The 8 Hidden Habits to Live Your Richest Life. Through his latest book, he introduces the hidden forms of wealth that extend beyond money which he said are essential components of a rich and fulfilling life. Drawing from his years of experience as a leadership expert, Robin shares practical strategies and profound wisdom to help readers live their richest lives. This episode of The Greatness Machine will explore the deeper dimension of wealth to help the audience unlock a newfound sense of purpose, fulfillment, and abundance beyond financial measures. Topics include: Robin discusses the concept of wealth beyond financial success The importance of introspection and finding inner peace The significance of processing emotions to achieve productivity and fulfillment Robin recounts humble beginnings and shift from being a successful lawyer to becoming a thought leader Robin introduces eight form of wealth and their contribution to a fulfilling life beyond monetary success The value of personal development and inner growth in achieving outer success Robin talks about the concept of the Virtuoso Algorithm Finding solitude to unleash creativity and achieve mastery Recognizing and overcoming limiting beliefs to achieve financial wealth and success Robin explains the importance of generosity as a business strategy Surrounding oneself with the right people and building strong relationships And other topics… Sponsored by: Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Business Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Connect with Robin: Website: https://www.robinsharma.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinsharma/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6oh54zIYKyW6hgBiZzLLsA Book: https://www.amazon.com/Wealth-Money-Cant-Buy-Richest/dp/059379849X Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine 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 et 2 min