No one invests in a desperate person | Dariush Soudi 

In this episode of Money Moves, Dania Alshowaikh sits down with Dariush Soudi—entrepreneur, investor and founder of the Gladiator Summit and ARENA Capital—for a raw and revealing conversation about money, success, and the values that shape a purpose-driven life. Dariush opens up about his personal relationship with money, sharing how financial struggle shaped his mindset and why understanding how to make money work for you is the real game-changer. He discusses the turning points that pushed him to become an entrepreneur and the emotional, sometimes painful, lessons that helped him build lasting wealth. 

We explore how values influence every decision in business from daily operations to high-stakes investments. Dariush reflects on the difference between being desperate and hungry in business, revealing how mindset can make or break an entrepreneur. His take on winning in sales is refreshingly human: it’s not about tricks — it’s about charisma, authenticity, and building real relationships. He even unpacks his worst investment and shares the best financial advice he’s ever received, offering hard-won wisdom to aspiring business leaders. 

Dariush also speaks candidly about financial security, fatherhood, and building a legacy with his son as both family and business partner. He offers his brutally honest opinion on how to invest $10,000 today — including the risks, mindset, and strategies involved. In an era of rapid change, we ask: Has AI already taken over? Dariush weighs in with insight you won’t want to miss. His perspective bridges old-school values and new-school innovation, revealing what it really takes to stay ahead. 

Finally, we touch on life’s biggest questions — pain, purpose, and what truly matters at the end. Dariush talks about turning personal pain into prosperity and why success means nothing without impact. From financial freedom to facing death with no regrets, this conversation is filled with bold truths, vulnerable moments, and timeless strategies for anyone serious about building a meaningful life and business.