A lot can change in just a couple short years….your dreams may be just around the corner! These changes, whether they are good or bad, can happen in a blink of an eye. It may seem like every day is the same, but when you look back, everything is different from how it used to be, and you are different from who you used to be.  Change offers new opportunities and experiences. It keeps life exciting and ensures that bad situations don’t last. It helps you move on, stay focused, and helps shape you. After all, progress is impossible without change. Today, I am flying solo to share my realization after reading a book called The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music by Dave Grohl, where he shared behind-the-scene stories of his musical life as a singer, guitarist, songwriter, drummer, and record producer. In this episode, I will discuss why it matters to seek and embrace change. I will also reveal what motivated me to step down from my position as a CEO after building a company from zero to a nine-figure organization and what has changed since then.  Topics include: Dave Grohl’s book The Storyteller and the realization I got from it I look back at where I was three, six, nine, twelve, fifteen, eighteen, and even twenty-one years ago and how different each three-year period was from the next. Why I decided to quit my nine-figure company The inevitability of change How to thrive when dealing with change The importance of reflecting on your life and career And other topics… 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Darius and Phil discuss wide-ranging topics such as microeconomics, capital markets, consumerism, inflation, automation, population growth, US economic forecast, and much more.  Topics include: Understanding capital markets What is exponential growth, and why it matters Effects of asset inflation Phil reveals what drives him in business The impact of automation on workers, jobs, and wages The influence of American consumerism culture The difference between population slowdown and depopulation The consumption response to COVID stimulus checks How the internet and celebrity endorsement affect consuming buyer behavior Phil shares an important tip every homeowner should take And other topics… Connect with Phil: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-mancuso-89975636  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elpresidente_epm/  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why is this happening to me?  Or Why is this happening for me?  Do you ask yourself these questions when faced with adversities? Although both are true, what you focus on will determine how well you react when push comes to shove. After all, life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. And one of the only things we can control is our attitude toward things that happen to us. We can either be happy about them or resent them.  Today I am flying solo to talk about how I managed to let go of the “worst case scenario” mindset and why I chose to direct my focus on seeing the struggles as opportunities to learn, grow, and become a better version of myself.  In this episode, I will discuss the ways that life is happening for us and not to us. I will talk about my personal struggle in the past, how I acted like I was a victim of my own life, and what made me realize I needed to give up this mindset for good. Topics include: The importance of having a good perspective on life Having a scarcity mindset and how it affects your life Managing your emotional reactions to what happens to you Shifting from victim mentality to creator mindset Cultivating gratitude during difficult times The secret to achieving greatness And other topics… 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the popularity of podcasts continues to skyrocket, the podcast advertising industry also saw tremendous growth quarter after quarter, seeing how more consumers and marketers allocate a greater portion of their advertising budget to them. While podcast ads are said to generate higher brand awareness and effectiveness, putting money into marketing and advertising won’t save a podcast that no one actually wants to listen to. Jordan Harbinger, the man behind one of the fastest-growing podcasts in the world, reveals the secret key to the success of The Jordan Harbinger Show. Jordan is an American lawyer turned social dynamics expert and entrepreneur. With an incredible 11 million monthly downloads, his show has featured some of the biggest names, including Simon Sinek, Kobe Bryant, and Dennis Rodman.  In this episode, Darius and Jordan discuss podcasting and reveal some simple and actionable strategies to grow your digital footprint without spending thousands after ad spend. They also talk about child-rearing practices in different cultures and why it is important to allow children to explore. You will also learn about Jordan’s secret in choosing his guests for his podcast show.  Topics include: How Jordan learned to speak five languages Why Jordan decided to go on a foreign exchange program in Germany in the late ‘90s The biggest cultural differences between different societies Drawbacks of a regressive mindset and excessive policing The benefits of giving teenagers the opportunity to explore and feed their curiosity The secret to growing your podcast without spending thousands of dollars in ad spend Following your passion and taking the path less trodden Jordan shares his biggest takeaway from interviewing his guests How Jordan finds the best podcast guests And other topics… Connect with Jordan: Website: https://www.jordanharbinger.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jordan-harbinger-show/id1344999619?mt=2  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordanharbinger/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanharbinger  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What is influence, and why do we want to have it? Influence is so much more than persuasion. The art of influence is having the ability to make an impact and affect how other people behave, think, and make decisions. Those who master the art of influence are often adept at tapping into people's emotions and motivating them to act. To put it simply, influence is the ability to get those around you to act on your ideas. Rene Rodriguez is often described as “powerful,” “thought-provoking,” and “authentic” by his clients. He has researched and applied behavioral neuroscience as a dynamic keynote speaker, leadership advisor, world-class sales expert, and renowned speaker coach. His book, Amplify Your Influence, became a Wall Street Journal bestseller, earning the second spot.  In this episode, Darius and Rene talk about overcoming rejection and embracing suffering, the power of influence and how to leverage it, and the importance of authenticity in business. Rene also discusses negative bias and why humans give more psychological weight to unpleasant news and information.  Topics include: Why Rene gave up basketball to become a salesperson at a young age The value of embracing suffering Rene shares the story behind his Wall Street Best Seller book, Amplify Your Influence Understanding the importance of influence Defining the AMPLIFII Formula and how it works The 3 P’s of AMPLIFII Formula Understanding Aristotle’s Rhetorical Triangle to gain maximum influence Why people are hardwired for negativity How to leverage core values in influencing others The secret keys to staying fully authentic in the digital world And other topics… Resources Mentioned: Amplify Your Influence by Rene Rodriguez: https://www.amplifiibook.com/ Connect with Rene: Website: https://www.meetrene.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seerenespeak/  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What will you leave behind? Leaving a great legacy is one of the most powerful things you can do in your career and personal life. It's about creating something enduring that has lasting and multi-generational effects. This isn't about how people will remember you; it's about creating something strong enough to make a powerful ripple impact. Mike McCarthy is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and their families increase collaboration and connection and create shared values and goals that will leave a lasting legacy.  Mike McCarthy is a husband, a father, and a serial entrepreneur who has played an integral role in helping Keller Williams become the #1 real estate company in the world. He also spearheads GoBundance Mastermind as the Co-Founder and CEO. Mike co-authored The Tribe of Millionaires, The Miracle Morning for Parents and Families, and its accompanying book, Family Playbook.  In this episode, Darius and Mike discuss the pros and cons of family businesses, the importance of workplace and family core values, the fascinating benefits of living in the present, the downside of hustle culture, and the advantages of abundant thinking. Topics include: How Mike became a real estate entrepreneur What advice Mike would give his younger self The expense of living in the future  Why mindfulness and being in the present make people happier How he became a Co-Founder and CEO of GoBundance How core values promote accountability within GoBundance Mike shares the story behind co-writing The Miracle Morning for Parents and Families with Hal Elrod and wife, Lindsay What motivated Mike to build FamBundance for families Mike’s family core values and their definition The benefits of holding family meetings And other topics… Resources Mentioned: The Miracle Morning: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Parents-Families-Yourself/dp/1942589344/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1662114360&refinements=p_27%3ALindsay+McCarthy&s=books&sr=1-1&text=Lindsay+McCarthy The Miracle Morning Playbook: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Morning-Parents-Families-Playbook/dp/1942589360/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1662114672&refinements=p_27%3ALindsay+McCarthy&s=books&sr=1-2&text=Lindsay+McCarthy  GoBundance: https://www.gobundance.com/ FamBundance: https://www.gobundance.com/fambundance Connect with Mike: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gomikemccarthy/  Website: www.gomikemccarthy.com  Book: www.miraclemorning.com/pfplaybook  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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How do you draw the line between your business and personal life? A balanced lifestyle means having the time, resources, and motivation to do well at work and home. After all, who wouldn't want to grow their business and spend more time with their loved ones without choosing one from the other? Author of the International Best-Selling Book, Epic Business, Justin Breen is CEO of the global PR firm BrEpic Communications and co-founder of the premium connectivity platform BrEpic Network. In addition to being an active member of Strategic Coach 10x and Abundance 360 Summit, he has built a remarkable international network of leaders and entrepreneurs. In this episode, Darius and Justin discuss the importance of visionary leadership, why it matters to know your values and strengths, how to master work-life balance as an entrepreneur, the effects of trauma on self-esteem, and the inspiration behind Justin’s new book Epic Life. Topics include: A sneak peek of Justin’s life before he became an entrepreneur Justin reveals his most precious possession and the story behind it How to be a visionary entrepreneur and still have a personal life The two questions Justin asks himself every day The benefits of knowing your values and strengths Justin talks about his second book “Epic Life” Justin explains why entrepreneurship is an addiction Why self-worth matters and how to improve it The importance of gratitude and being thankful Justin picks a favorite chapter of his new book and explains why he chose that And other topics… Resources Mentioned: Justin Breen’s Book Epic Life:  https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Life-Collaborative-Companies-Putting-ebook/dp/B0B7QLBDLM Justin Breen’s Company: https://www.brepicllc.com/ Dopamine Nation: https://www.amazon.com/Dopamine-Nation-Finding-Balance-Indulgence/dp/152474672X/ref=asc_df_152474672X/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=509494905560&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16069962025356892720&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028258&hvtargid=pla-1209607320147&psc=1 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anger is often viewed as a negative emotion that is typically associated with violence. While aggression is destructive, anger is a normal human emotion that is designed to promote survival, provide a sense of control, motivate us to solve problems, make us aware of injustice, drive us toward our goals, and inject optimism. Awarded the 2013 Distinguished Early Career Researcher Award by the American Psychological Association, Todd Kashdan dives deep into the surprising benefits of anger and the many ways it pushes people to go beyond what they are capable of and pursue their desired rewards. Through his book “The Art of Insubordination,” Todd also offers an essential guide for those who are seeking to be heard, make a change, and rebel against an unhealthy status quo. In this episode, Darius and Todd discuss the value of anger, the advantages of giving and receiving critical feedback, the benefits of creating mental space, the demerits of social mobility, and the ways to bridge integrity and flexibility. Topics include: The challenges of growing up without a father figure How Todd got into writing at a young age Giving and receiving feedback effectively Curiosity and insubordination The surprising benefits of anger The three elements that can improve the quality of life in difficult situations The two forms of self-talk and their benefits Ways to create more psychological space Todd shares the story behind his new book “The Art of Insubordination” The consequences of social mobility on relationships and overall well-being Psychological flexibility with integrity And other topics… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you ever look back and think about the things that you could have done differently? Maybe you have done and said something that you wish you could take back. Maybe you wish you hadn’t worked so hard or wish you could have done better.  Most of us, if not all, have regrets. It could be things you did that you hoped you hadn’t or things you wish you had done but didn’t. Today, I am flying solo to share a list of things I would tell my younger self. Looking back, I remember being scared of a lot of things, worrying about what could happen, and spending my time thinking about the future. What I failed to realize was we can never take back whatever time and effort we have expended in the past.  In this episode, I will discuss the things I wish I had known when starting out in life and business, the biggest mistake I made as an entrepreneur dad, my realizations looking back in the past, and the things I wish to do now that I am in my 40’s. Topics include: List of things I would tell my younger self The pros of mental time travel  Why you should never stress about your businesses, clients, and team members The importance of spending time with your family and friends Why you shouldn’t wait to live your life Living in the now but also preparing for the future Why you should never sweat the small stuff The one big mistake I should never have made in the past Why it matters to live a life of intent And other topics… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Communication is complex. While most people associate it solely with talking or speaking, a good communicator must also have the ability to listen, question, and provide constructive input. The act of communicating not only allows one to convey information but also helps build relationships, enhances engagement, fuels innovation, and fosters trust. But just like any other skill, learning to be better at communicating comes with challenges.  Matt Abrahams, author of “Speaking Up without Freaking Out” and host of the “Think Fast, Talk Smart” podcast, names anxiety as one of the challenges on why it can be hard for some people to express their thoughts and ideas. He believes that it is normal to be nervous and goes on to share some helpful tips and routines that can help manage public speaking anxiety. In this episode, Darius and Matt discuss the types of communication, the ways to become a great communicator, the challenges of public speaking and how to overcome them, the importance of structuring communication plans, and how to leverage and manage public speaking anxiety. Topics include: How Matt realized his passion for communication at an early age Leveraging and managing speaking anxiety How Ted Talks encourages effective good communication Tips on how to level up speaking Things to learn from neuroscience to communicate better The power of communication when it comes to status How to leverage communication to elevate status The importance of listening skills in communication Structuring communication plans Hacks for public speaking with confidence The story behind the creation of Matt’s book “Speaking Up Without Freaking Out” Hosting “Think Fast, Talk Smart” podcast Ways for communicating successfully with remote teams Connect with Matt: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maabrahams/ Website: https://nofreakingspeaking.com/  Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-fast-talk-smart-communication-techniques/id1494989268  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There are things that used to exist 25 years ago that seem strange today. Investors face the unpredictability of markets, corrections and recessions, and the overwhelming amount of information on the internet about investing.  In the "Motley Fool Money" podcast, Chris Hill and a team of analysts break down the implications of stock market movements for long-term, business-focused investors based on the day's top business news and financial headlines. Chris believes in the importance of seeking the help of professionals when it comes to investing. He also emphasizes that there are still a number of reasons stopping people from investing, pointing out the state of financial literacy in schools then and now.  In this episode, Darius and Chris discuss the evolution of financial media and how the internet has revolutionized the industry. They also talk about Chris’s entry at The Motley Fool and how the company grew and expanded over the years with a mission to help millions of people around the world achieve their financial goals.   Topics include: What attracted Chris to join The Motley Fool in 1997 The creation of The Motley Fool radio show What motivated the company to expand and enter podcasting How the company teaches financial literacy to their employees and the general public The secret to finding high-quality information in media Why Chris does not invest in crypto Finding the best leaders in the investment space Optimism as the key to investing The role of values in investing And other topics… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I’m talking with Michael Arrieta, who currently serves as the Founder and CEO of Garden City, a purpose-driven holding company that buys, grows, and permanently holds family-owned companies.  He was an early employee at DocuSign and served as Global Vice President, General Manager, and Chief of Staff to the CEO before he founded MAV Ventures in 2016. Michael also co-founded New Story, a non-profit organization that has built over 2,000 homes in developing countries.  Following his success as a young sales representative at Cutco and after seeking wise counsel, Michael made the decision to move to Silicon Valley, where he joined a startup called Wyse before his path led him to DocuSign in 2014.  With his passion to make small things flourish, Michael started investing in small companies with a mission to help them grow, which later resulted in the creation of Garden City. Michael, through the holding company, envisions enriching the lives of the working class by acquiring family-owned service businesses and putting a culture that’s all about purpose, belonging, and excellence.  In this episode, you will learn the advantages of seeking wise counsel, why hard work is necessary to be successful in life and business, and the importance of knowing your ‘why’ and purpose. Here are just some of the things we get into: Michael looks back at his humble beginnings. How he landed a job at DocuSign in the early years of the company. The importance and benefits of mentorship. What made him take the path to become an entrepreneur. What they do in Garden City and the impact they want to make. You can also stream it on: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217  Grab a copy of The Core Value Equation book here: https://therealdarius.com/book-order/  Learn how to leverage my proprietary and simple ScaleMAP Method Frameworks here: https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video  Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to spread greatness to the world! Peace, Darius Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is writing a book hard? Today I’m flying solo to talk about the process of writing my first book, “The Core Value Equation,” where I tackled how core values create the ultimate decision-making engine for an organization that consistently produces spectacular results. Writing and publishing my own book has been on my bucket list for a long time until I made it happen in 2020. Now, looking back at the experience made me realize that anyone can write and publish their own book. It may sound like a daunting task, but it was personally one of the coolest projects I have ever done.  In this episode, I will be taking you behind the scene on how The Core Value Equation was born. You will also learn several tips on how to write your own book and the challenges and benefits of publishing one. Here are some of the things I get into: What pushed me to write The Core Value Equation. How I started the writing process by dictation. Why consistency matters in writing a book. The power of editing in creating and fine-tuning a book. Why most people write a book.  You can also stream it on: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217  Grab a copy of The Core Value Equation book here: https://therealdarius.com/book-order/  Learn how to leverage my proprietary and simple ScaleMAP Method Frameworks here: https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video  Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to spread greatness to the world! Peace, Darius Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I’m talking with Brad Lea, an entrepreneur, and businessman, who owns a portfolio of companies. He is the founder and CEO of LightSpeed VT, a global leader in web-based training and communication platforms that enables people to create, launch, and market their own interactive courses and training. He is the host of the Dropping Bombs Podcast and the creator of the Bottom Line. In 2021, he launched a book titled “The Hard Way: Lessons I Learned the Hard Way, So You Don’t Have To” to help people avoid challenges, heartache, and difficulties in life and business. With a mission to get the knowledge from the people who have it to the people who need it, Brad founded LightSpeed VT, which has revolutionized online learning and has made a massive impact in the lives of many since 1999. The tech company has led him to become an influential thought leader on social media.  When asked for his advice to become successful, Brad emphasizes the importance of loving yourself, being authentic, and the value of learning sales. He also explains why relationships matter and why people need to leverage each other in order to level up.  In this episode, you will learn the advantages of training people in your organization, the significance of learning and unlearning, the three key things you need to achieve greatness and the long-term benefits of being optimistic.  Here are just some of the things we get into: His intention in starting Dropping Bombs Podcast. How Brad got into the world of entrepreneurship. How LightSpeed VT was born, and who it is built for. His inspiration for writing “The Hard Way” and three pieces of advice he’d like people to learn.  Why people need to unlearn in order to level up. You can also stream it on: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217  Grab a copy of The Core Value Equation book here: https://therealdarius.com/book-order/  Learn how to leverage my proprietary and simple ScaleMAP Method Frameworks here: https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video  Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to spread greatness to the world! Peace, Darius Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I’m talking with Sonal Bahl, an experienced HR Director, and a Career Strategist. Over the course of nearly two decades in human resources, screening over 250,000 resumes and conducting over 5,000 interviews on three continents, she has recruited, built, and evolved highly talented teams. She has experience working with large companies like GE & PwC, midsize family-owned firms & startups. After realizing she was no longer happy with her employment, Sonal somehow found her way into leveraging YouTube to talk about her knowledge and perspective and started creating videos. When she did not see immediate results after putting out several videos, she decided to move to LinkedIn and uploaded her videos as native content.  Two years after turning her back on YouTube, one of her older videos went viral, earning her hundreds of followers a day until she reached her first 100,000 followers.   When asked for her advice on how to get noticed on YouTube, Sonal emphasizes the importance of learning from what successful people do, the value of crafting a good Youtube homepage and creating attractive thumbnail designs.  In this episode, you will learn some helpful tips on how to grow your YouTube channel, what YouTube success looks like, and why consistency matters in playing the long game of building a presence on the video-sharing platform. Here are just some of the things we get into: How Sonal found YouTube “success” after an old video went viral. Sonal’s advice to those who want to grow their YouTube channels. The importance of YouTube homepage and thumbnail designs. The tools Sonal uses in building her YouTube channel. Why YouTube is a trust accelerator. You can also stream it on: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217  Grab a copy of The Core Value Equation book here: https://therealdarius.com/book-order/  Learn how to leverage my proprietary and simple ScaleMAP Method Frameworks here: https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video  Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to spread greatness to the world! Peace, Darius Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What is a recession, and are we in one now? Today I’m flying solo to talk about the US economy, its current state, and what to expect during the second half of the year.  A recession is generally characterized by negative gross domestic product (GDP), rising unemployment, falling retail prices, and contracting measures of income and manufacturing lasting months or years. Recessions are often classified as two consecutive quarters of plummeting GDP growth, which the US economy is currently experiencing.  GDP fell at an annual rate of 0.9% in the second quarter this year, following the last quarter’s decline of 1.6%.  But before we talk about these figures, let’s take a step back and look at the four to five consecutive quarters with the most significant revenue growth in the last 15 years.  US real GDP rose at an annual rate of 6.9% in the fourth quarter of 2021, following a 2.3% growth in the third quarter, a 6.7% pace in the second quarter, and a 6.3% increase during the first quarter of the same year.  Despite the two recent negative quarters, we need to look at the numbers and what they represent. Moreover, a negative GDP growth rate does not necessarily connote that the economy is entering a recession. In this episode, you will learn about the US economy, GDP, recession, and why running a country is similar to running a business.  Here are some of the things I get into: The real GDP growth in the US for the first two quarters of 2022.  The definition of recession. How economists determine whether the economy is in a recession.  Why we need to look at the data and consider the previous quarters. Why a negative GDP does not indicate a recession. You can also stream it on: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217  Grab a copy of The Core Value Equation book here: https://therealdarius.com/book-order/  Learn how to leverage my proprietary and simple ScaleMAP Method Frameworks here: https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video  Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to spread greatness to the world! Peace, Darius Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I’m talking with Jesse Iwuji, the first and only active US Naval Officer to compete in NASCAR and the co-owner of NASCAR team Jesse Iwuji Motorsports, which he co-owns with HOF Former-NFL player Emmitt Smith. He's also a Keynote Speaker/Motivational Speaker and a NASCAR Driver Analyst for NBC Sports. After realizing his love for sports, particularly football, Jesse started setting goals for himself to be on the A team, get recruited, and play college football. Since he didn’t get to play Pee Wee and Pop Warner football, he had to put in extra effort to grow his talent, skills, strength, and ability. All his hard work paid off when he got recruited by the United States Naval Academy to play college football during his senior year. Jesse saw this as an opportunity to attend a great school, pursue his love for football, and have a career waiting for him as an officer in the US Navy when he graduates. He spent four years playing for the Naval Academy, went to four different bowl games, and had winning seasons all four years. He later became a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO), which developed his passion for cars and racing. His life changed when he finally decided to become a professional race car driver. Jesse explored every possibility, took the entrepreneur route, and started his own business on the sideline while still serving active duty. In this episode, you will learn about football, professional car racing, the importance of having a vision, what kept Jesse going in pursuing his dream, and some helpful tips on how to start living your dreams. Here are just some of the things we get into: What made Jesse loves sports and football. How Jesse realized his passion for car racing. What he did to fund his journey of learning car racing. How he worked his way up from Late Models to NASCAR K&N Pro Series. How his partnership with Emmitt Smith started. You can also stream it on: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180) Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217 (https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217) Grab a copy of The Core Value Equation book here: https://therealdarius.com/book-order/ (https://therealdarius.com/book-order/) Learn how to leverage my proprietary and simple ScaleMAP Method Frameworks here: https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video (https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video) Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to spread greatness to the world! Peace, Darius This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I had the opportunity to appear on the Young and Profiting Podcast hosted by Hala Taha, where I talked about the entrepreneurial lessons I learned from my father, my experience working at the White House, how I built and grew my businesses through partnerships, my reason for stepping down as CEO of Money Source, and the importance of running a core value-driven organization. After realizing I was unemployable during my internship at the White House, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming my own boss and built my first business, Twin Capital Mortgage, with my twin brother. Things, however, did not come easy as I spent years and years pivoting, learning, and figuring out how to build a business through partnerships. I ranked #9 on Glassdoor’s list of Top CEOs of Small and Medium Companies in the US running The Money Source and have led organizations that have won numerous Stevie awards, been named “#3 Best Place to Work” by San Francisco Business Times, and have landed at #40 on the Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing companies. But despite achieving all these recognitions, I decided to step down as the CEO of TMS. That move allowed me to reassess what I truly wanted to do, resulting in the release of my first book, The Core Value Equation, and the launch of the Greatness Machine Podcast. And just recently, I launched a product called Scale MAP Method, where I help CEOs grow their companies. In this episode, you will learn about my entrepreneurial journey, the epiphany that made me step down as the CEO of my previous company, how I learned about the importance of core values, and my inspiration for launching my book and podcast. Here are some of the things Hala and I get into: The entrepreneurial lessons I learned at an early age. The reason why I was almost fired from my work at the White House. How my first business, Twin Capital Mortgage, turned out to be. Why I stepped down as the CEO of the Money Source. Launching The Core Value Equation, The Greatness Machine Podcast, and Scale MAP Method. You can also stream it on: iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-greatness-machine/id1555334180) Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217 (https://open.spotify.com/show/0Vbu3kqMBgfGnu3vMyW5pd?si=f46b738ce5fb4217) Grab a copy of The Core Value Equation book here: https://therealdarius.com/book-order/ (https://therealdarius.com/book-order/) Learn how to leverage my proprietary and simple ScaleMAP Method Frameworks here: https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video (https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video) Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to spread greatness to the world! Peace, Darius This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius is flying solo during his mini-sabbatical/pseudo vacation in Mexico to discuss who's living in your emotional house and what we're doing about our past. In this episode you'll discover: - How a chance encounter with Ed Mylett and his book, 'The Power of One More,' changed Darius' thinking. - The concept of 'cleaning your emotional house' and identifying what type of emotional house you have. - The importance of dreaming with imagination and dreaming about a compelling future for yourself. Join Darius as he challenges you to consider your emotional house and the emotions you want to have living there each day. Enjoy! What You'll Learn in this Show: How Ed Mylett’s book, 'The Power of One More,' has become a game changer in Darius' life. Your ‘emotional house’ and the emotions you choose to fill it with. Why dreaming with imagination and dreaming about a compelling future for yourself is so vital to happiness and success. And so much more... This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sometimes, our mistakes can offer powerful revelations, which can lead to incredible success. Today's guest reveals what inspired him to start his current business, recalling how he did not get real offers from collegiate football programs, because he failed to understand the recruiting process. In this episode of https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (The Greatness Machine,) Darius chats with Chris Krause, founder and CEO of NCSA Athletic Recruiting. Since it began, NCSA has helped more than 100,000 student-athletes commit to colleges with 8 billion in scholarships awarded to NCSA athletes. It has quickly become the leader in helping match college coaches with qualified high school athletes through education and technology and is now part of the Reigning Champs family of purpose-driven companies assisting the Collegiate athletic community- building the world’s first Athletic Recruiting Network with a mission of Athleadership- Empowering leaders through sports. Chris realized his passion for recruiting after his own determination and hard work paid off and he earned a full football scholarship to play in the SEC at Vanderbilt University. After graduating in four years, Chris made it his goal to make sure no other student-athlete gets left behind and misses out on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play college sports in return for education and lifelong empowerment. In this episode you'll discover: - How Chris' path led him to athletics. - The early days of NCSA and how it was formed. - The process of recruiting student-athletes. Join Darius and Chris as they discuss sports, athletes, recruitment, sales, business, core values, and a lot more! Enjoy! What You'll Learn in this Show: The path that eventually led Chris to athletics. How the NCSA was formed in the early days. Details on the student-athlete recruitment process. And so much more... Resources: https://www.ncsasports.org (NSCA website) https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskrause/ (Chris' LinkedIn) https://therealdarius.com/the-greatness-machine-series/ (Community) https://www.dariusclass.com/training-video (ScaleMAP video) https://therealdarius.com/book-order/ (TCVE Book) https://therealdarius.com (The Real Darius) https://www.facebook.com/therealdariusm/ (Facebook) https://www.instagram.com/whoompdarius/ (Instagram) https://therealdarius.com/YT (YouTube) https://twitter.com/kingdarius (Twitter) https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ (LinkedIn) This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices