They discuss how neglecting physical, mental, and emotional health can become a company's biggest liability and share practical insights on maintaining balance, self-awareness, and leadership presence.

What's covered in this episode:
- The impact of founder health on business success

- Balancing work, family, and personal wellness

- Self-awareness and emotional regulation for leaders

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

00:26  Introduction 
01: 00 The Founder’s Health: An Asset or Liability?

10:20 Balancing Work and Personal Life

18:40 Self-Awareness and Reflection for Founders

CONNECT WITH US:

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► Website: https://neverinreverse.com/

Through personal stories, they highlight the challenges and rewards of generosity and authenticity in business and life, especially in B2B sales. 

The conversation emphasizes leading with integrity, building trust, and embracing vulnerability, offering listeners practical insights for personal and professional growth. 

What's covered in this episode:
- The law of value: your worth is determined by the value you give
- Law of compensation: income follows how well you serve others
- Influence without authority: putting others first to lead effectively
- The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in relationships

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

00:00 Introduction to The Go Giver Book Club

01:15 Exploring the Law of Value

06:06 Understanding the Law of Compensation

08:53 Influence Without Authority

12:58 Authenticity in Business Relationships

16:47 The Challenge of Receptivity

20:09 Generosity vs. Boundaries

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► website: https://neverinreverse.com/

What's covered in this episode:
- Marques Ogden's childhood and NFL career
- The rise of his construction business
- The ego and success pitfalls
- The devastating financial and personal failure
- The rebuilding process and lessons learned
- Living in the present and future focus

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00) Introduction

(02:59) The Rise and Fall of Success

(05:57) The Ego and Its Consequences

(09:08) Hitting Rock Bottom

(12:08) The Journey of Rebuilding

(15:05) Lessons Learned from Failure

(17:47) The Importance of Accountability

(21:09) Staying Grounded in Integrity

(23:52) Final Thoughts and Moving Forward

FOLLOW & LEARN MORE ABOUT Marques Ogden: 

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► Website: https://marquesogden.com

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Through personal stories and practical advice, they emphasize accountability, the need for continuous improvement, and strategies for building resilient, high-performing teams. 

This episode encourages leaders to confront complacency and foster a culture where excellence is the norm.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction 

(00:00:19) Leadership and Accountability 

(00:00:35) Team Standards and SOPs 

(00:00:51) Unmotivated Employees and Culture 

(00:01:29) Personal Anecdotes and Team Dynamics 

(00:02:51) Average Performance as a Business Killer 

(00:04:13) Culture, Leadership, and Accountability 

(00:04:45) Performance Metrics and Team Impact

(00:05:23) Challenges of Addressing Underperformance 

(00:06:27) Social Skills vs. Real Contribution 

(00:07:20) Building Performance Standards 

(00:07:51) Strengths, Weaknesses, and Team Development 

(00:08:47) Dangers of Accepting Average Performance 

(00:09:19) The Mediocre Tax 

(00:10:33) Cultural Acceptance and Change Resistance 

(00:11:14) High Performers Disengaging 

(00:13:52) Rebuilding After Mediocrity 

(00:14:10) Making Examples and Accountability 

(00:16:17) Avoiding Mediocrity by Focusing 

(00:16:55) Redesigning Culture and Team Roles 

(00:17:36) Enduring Growing Pains 

(00:18:00) Good Enough Culture and Change 

(00:19:27) Reflection and Key Questions 

(00:20:17) Redundancy and Cross-Training 

(00:21:00) Podcast Wrap-Up

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She talks about how leadership behaviors shape workplace culture, why psychological safety truly matters for team performance, and the challenges highly sensitive women leaders often face. With openness and clarity, Jennifer offers practical advice on self-advocacy, better communication, and overcoming burnout.

They get into: 

→ Authentic leadership starts with self-awareness and owning your 'shit'

→ Psychological safety is crucial for innovation and open communication

→ Delaying tough conversations can lead to burnout and low self-worth

→ Leadership behaviors are reflected in organizational culture, like a shadow

→ Empowering employees to speak up requires building confidence and trust

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome 

(00:00:07) Jennifer’s Leadership Philosophy 

(00:02:27) Jennifer’s Background and Career Journey 

(00:03:34) Transition to Entrepreneurship 

(00:04:40) Entrepreneurial Identity and Stereotypes 

(00:05:47) Flashlight Thinking Framework 

(00:06:47) Challenges in Corporate Environments 

(00:08:00) Workplace Culture: Creativity vs. Conformity 

(00:10:34) Psychological Safety and Accountability 

(00:12:57) Leadership’s Role in Shaping Culture 

(00:14:55) Shifts in Corporate Culture and Generational Differences 

(00:18:09) Facing Difficult Issues and Communication Skills 

(00:20:54) Building Courage and Self-Esteem 

(00:22:52) Consequences of Avoiding Difficult Conversations 

(00:24:25) Success Stories and Positive Outcomes 

CONNECT WITH US:

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Not the polished, perfect kind. The real kind. The kind that makes people lean in, feel seen, and take action.

In this episode of the Never in Reverse Podcast, Jeremy Axel sits down with Bill Blankschaen, Founder and Chief StoryArchitect of StoryBuilders, for a conversation that will completely change how you see your own story.

They get into:
→ Why your "ordinary" experiences are actually your greatest asset
→ Bill's 5-step storytelling framework: Attention. Tension. Connection. Solution. Action.
→ The self-doubt that keeps most people silent and how to push through it
→ Why vulnerability isn't weakness, it's the whole point
→ How the right story can build trust, drive business, and move people to act

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:
(00:00:00) Introduction & Guest Welcome
(00:01:57) Bill Blankschaen’s Background & Journey
(00:05:00) The Power of Story in Shaping Identity
(00:07:41) Vulnerability & Authenticity in Storytelling
(00:09:52) Outgrowing Old Stories & Finding Your Message
(00:11:49) Five-Element Storytelling Framework
(00:15:35) Overcoming Story Traps: Confidence & Normalcy
(00:18:01) The Power of Sharing & Relating Through Pain
(00:20:08) Designing a Life Story Worth Living
(00:23:14) Practical Steps for Crafting Your Story
(00:26:02) Closing & Contact Information

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They discuss the challenges of balancing personal identity with professional roles, the societal expectations placed on men, and the importance of family dynamics in shaping one’s sense of self. The conversation emphasizes the need for introspection, mentorship, and the recognition that legacy is defined by the impact we have on others, rather than by professional achievements alone.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) The Slow Loss of Self Through Success

(00:00:31) Natural Leadership vs. Struggle
(00:02:43) Identity Crisis for Founders & Men 
(00:03:19) Masculine Identity & Providing 
(00:04:14) Ego, Recognition, and Early Success 
(00:04:49) Masculinity and Enjoyment in Providing
(00:05:16) Natural Leadership in Family & Vulnerability 
(00:06:20) External Pressures and Fear
(00:07:46) Guilt, Rest, and Family Time 
(00:08:57) Work-Life Balance & Shifting Priorities 
(00:09:52) The Trap of Ever-Increasing Quotas 
(00:12:07) Growth, Scar Tissue, and Emotional Resistance 
(00:13:05) Capacity Thresholds & Self-Acceptance   
(00:17:22) Teenage Years of Business & Reclaiming Identity 
(00:18:05) Mentorship & The Obituary Exercise Revisited 
(00:19:07) Anchors, Financial Fears, and Letting Go 
(00:20:54) Maturity, Growth, and Accepting the Cycle 
(00:21:38) Stress, Transition, and Being Present 
(00:22:21) Owning Your Journey & Seeking Help 
(00:23:05) Self-Love, Reflection, and Closing 

CONNECT WITH US:

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Valerie Bowden discusses the pros and cons of DIY versus agency models in outsourcing, the importance of transparency and trust in remote work, and the value of global talent. She emphasizes the need for clear expectations and KPIs when hiring, and shares her insights on scaling businesses while avoiding burnout. The conversation concludes with practical tips for entrepreneurs considering outsourcing, particularly in Africa.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:
(00:00:00) Introduction & Valerie’s Background
(00:01:34) Adventurous Stories from Africa
(00:03:14) Outsourcing: DIY vs. Agency.
(00:05:12) Building Trust & Managing Remote Teams
(00:08:34) Global Talent & Opportunity
(00:10:45) Overcoming Trust & Perception Barriers
(00:13:21) People Are People: Universal Similarities
(00:19:15) Agility & Startup vs. Corporate Culture
(00:21:03) Balancing Structure and Flexibility
(00:23:43) Top Tips for Successful Outsourcing
(00:25:35) Conclusion & Farewell

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The conversation emphasizes the significance of recognizing the difference between motion and progress, and how incremental improvements can lead to significant outcomes over time. The hosts share personal experiences and insights on navigating challenges in the workplace, ultimately encouraging listeners to reflect on their own productivity and leadership styles.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:00:59) Weather & Sales Pipeline Analogy 

(00:01:54) The Illusion of Productivity 

(00:03:29) Process Improvement & Avoiding Task Overload 

(00:04:08) Reactive Cycles & Systemic Issues 

(00:05:42) Addressing Small Problems Early 

(00:06:11) Process Mapping & Planning Ahead 

(00:09:28) Listening & Supporting Teams 

(00:11:08) Ego, Clear Outcomes, and Autonomy 

(00:13:07) Broken Processes & Sales Fulfillment 

(00:14:19) Proactive vs. Reactive Leadership

(00:16:45) Team Dynamics & Harmonious Progress 

(00:17:39) Downtime, Creativity, and Time Blocking 

(00:20:39) Compounding Effects of Neglected Issues 

(00:21:21) Self-Reflection & Team Communication 

(00:22:59) Conclusion

CONNECT WITH US:

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She discusses overcoming cultural expectations, the importance of self-promotion, and her coaching framework that helps women align their core values for authentic leadership. The conversation explores generational differences, the myth of work-life balance, and strategies for working more intentionally. Jean emphasizes adaptive leadership, self-advocacy, and harmonizing work with personal priorities to achieve sustainable success and fulfillment.

What you’ll learn here will completely transform how you Redefine Success. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome 

Jean Tien is introduced, her background in corporate finance, and her passion for women's leadership.

(00:02:56) Jean’s Background and Immigrant Story 

Jean shares her upbringing as an Asian immigrant in New York and her journey into corporate finance.

(00:04:24) Cultural Expectations and Early Career Lessons 

Discussion of cultural values, parental advice, and the reality of workplace conflict and expectations.

(00:07:17) Realization and Career Turning Point 

Jean describes when she realized she needed to change her approach to succeed professionally.

(00:10:51) Developing a Personal Brand and Self-Promotion 

Jean explains the importance of self-advocacy, self-promotion, and building a professional reputation.

(00:13:12) Timeline of Career Growth 

Jean pinpoints when her career transformation began and how she continues to refine her approach.

(00:14:39) Generational Differences in the Workforce 

Exploration of generational shifts in workplace attitudes, especially among women.

(00:17:41) Coaching Women Through Frustration and Conflict 

Jean discusses her coaching approach for women who feel stuck or frustrated in their careers.

(00:18:03) Leadership Frequency and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs 

Introduction of the "leadership frequency" concept and helping women shift negative beliefs.

 (00:19:50) Generational Tensions and Value Systems

 Analysis of generational conflicts and the importance of reevaluating personal values.

(00:21:36)  Values Vector Framework 

Jean introduces her "values vector" framework for aligning core values across life priorities.

(00:23:48) Work Less, Achieve More: The Success Framework 

Jean explains her philosophy and framework for working more efficiently and in alignment with personal priorities.

(00:26:18) Work-Life Harmonization vs. Balance

Discussion on the myth of work-life balance and the need for harmonization instead.

(00:27:49) Leadership, Trust, and Team Dynamics 

Reflections on leadership, building trust, and the importance of leaders being hands-on.

(00:29:02) Conclusion and Book Mention 

 Jean shares her book, "Your Success Blueprint," and offers closing remarks from the host.

FOLLOW & LEARN MORE ABOUT Jean Tien: 

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanftien/?hl=en

► LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jean-tien

► website: https://jeantien.com/

CONNECT WITH US:

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                                                                                  Listen and Share. 

In this raw and revelatory episode of the Never in Reverse Podcast, Jeremy Axel sits down with Bill Fairman, a battle-tested co-founder from the financial services trenches. This isn’t a theory, it’s a testimony. Bill pulls back the curtain on the exhilarating highs and devastating lows of business partnerships, sharing the hard-won wisdom that can only come from walking through fire.

You’ll hear the story of starting from scratch with little more than a dream, the unique complexities of partnering with family, and the non-negotiable role of radical transparency. Then, Bill takes us into the heart of the storm: navigating a catastrophic $68 million loss caused by partner misconduct. This is a masterclass in crisis leadership and personal resilience.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome 

(00:00:54) Personal Background and Hobbies 
Bill shares about his hobbies, love for fishing, and what motivates him in life and business.

(00:03:06) Why This Podcast? 
Bill explains what attracted him to the podcast and the meaning behind "Never in Reverse."

(00:04:24) Weathering the Early Storms 
Discussion on starting the business with limited resources, community support, and the challenges of the early days.

(00:05:10) Bootstrapping and Growth 
Bill details how the business was bootstrapped, the role of family, and the transition from brokering loans to starting a fund.

(00:09:57) Family Dynamics in Business 
Exploring the benefits and challenges of working with family, maintaining open communication, and separating family from business.

(00:11:42) Maintaining Trust and Communication 
Importance of daily and weekly huddles, honest dialogue, and preventing resentment in partnerships.

(00:12:57) Handling Personal and Business Challenges 
Navigating personal life events, ego, and maintaining clear communication as the business evolves.

(00:14:36) Transparency with Staff and Investors 
Balancing openness with staff and investors during tough times, and the importance of timely communication.

(00:15:59) The $6.8 Million Loss Crisis 
Bill recounts bringing in a third partner, discovering accounting discrepancies, and the resulting major financial loss and litigation.

(00:18:36) Leadership During Crisis 
How to lead a team and maintain culture during chaos, and the personal toll of business crises.

(00:20:20) The Value of Mastermind Groups 
How mastermind groups provided support, advice, and a sounding board during difficult times.

(00:22:21) Radical Transparency with Investors 
Describing the process of communicating the crisis to investors, holding town halls, and maintaining trust.

(00:23:13) Lessons from Chaos and Growth 
How moments of chaos build strength, structure, and authenticity in leadership and business.

(00:24:12) The Importance of Asking for Help 
Encouragement to utilize support networks and not hide problems out of embarrassment.

 (00:25:17) Advice on Co-Founder Relationships
 Bill’s perspective on partnerships, the importance of planning for exits, and treating partnerships like potential divorces.

(00:26:34) Structuring Partnerships for the Future 
Advice on setting up agreements and processes to handle life changes and business evolution.

(00:27:13) Final Advice for Future Founders 
Bill’s key takeaways: don’t get discouraged, expect ups and downs, and be open and honest with all stakeholders.

(00:29:01) The Meaning of "Never in Reverse." 
Bill explains his interpretation: facing consequences, making tough calls, and learning from failure.

(00:29:32) Closing Remarks 
Host wraps up with final thoughts on partnership resilience, learning from failure, and thanks to Bill.

=====================================
FOLLOW & LEARN MORE ABOUT Bill Fairman: 
=====================================
► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bill.fairman.5/?hl=e
► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.fairman.5
► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bfairmancarolinahardmoney/
► website: https://carolina.fund/accredited-investor

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'Tis the season… for guilt, pressure, and loneliness.

In Episode 43 of the Never in Reverse Podcast, host Jeremy Axel and co-host Douglas Cox candidly discuss the hidden struggles entrepreneurs face during the holiday season.

They explore the pressure to always be available, the guilt of missing family moments, and the loneliness that can come with being a provider. 

The conversation highlights the challenge of balancing business demands with personal well-being and family time. Both hosts share personal stories, emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, and encourage listeners to prioritize meaningful moments with loved ones. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) The Hidden Struggles of Entrepreneurs During the Holidays 
Discussing the unseen challenges, guilt, and loneliness that business owners face while others enjoy holiday festivities.

(00:00:27) The Holiday Grind and Always Being "On." 
Exploring the difficulty of unplugging from work and the habitual nature of always being available.

(00:03:11) Pressure to Respond and FOMO in Business 
Examining the pressure to respond quickly to customers and the fear of missing out on opportunities.

(00:05:37) Work-Life Balance and Cultural Expectations 
Debating the reality of work-life balance, societal pressures, and the need to unplug for mental health.

(00:06:52) The Pendulum of Priorities and Entrepreneurial Expectations 
Discussing shifting priorities between work and family, and the myth of entrepreneurial freedom.

(00:10:01) Self-Imposed Pressures and the Founder’s Trap 
Addressing internal and external expectations, as well as the emotional traps founders often encounter.

(00:12:18) The Importance of Presence and Family Moments 
Sharing personal stories about choosing family time over work, and the value of being present.

(00:15:28) Setting Boundaries and Personal Time
Emphasizing the need for boundaries, personal time, and self-care to avoid burnout.

(00:15:46) The Provider Mentality and Loneliness 
Exploring the loneliness and sacrifices of being a provider, and the importance of keeping something for oneself.

(00:18:22) Holiday Pressures and Family Dynamics 
Discussing financial and emotional pressures during the holidays and the complexities of family relationships.

(00:19:38) Final Thoughts and Advice for the Holidays 
Encouraging listeners to set boundaries, breathe, and accept the imperfect nature of the holiday season.

💬 COMMENT BELOW:
What’s your biggest holiday struggle as an entrepreneur? 

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A raw look at the sacrifices, lawsuits, and mindset required to move forward, and why integrity is your greatest asset. 

An honest, inspiring conversation for founders, builders, and anyone navigating the entrepreneurial path.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction & Episode Context

(00:00:33) Gratitude and Community Building 
Douglas Cox and Jeremy Axel express gratitude for the year and encourage audience engagement and community.

(00:01:25) Introducing Jeremy Axel & Entrepreneurial Spirit 
Doug introduces Jeremy, sharing their history and Jeremy’s entrepreneurial drive.

(00:02:28) Jeremy’s Early Career & First Startup Experience 
Jeremy recounts his early career selling copiers, learning business basics, and seeking personal growth.

(00:04:29) Transition to Colorado & Software Sales
Jeremy describes moving to Colorado, selling SolidWorks software, and reigniting his entrepreneurial ambitions.

(00:05:20) Integrity Crisis & Founding Fluid Conveyors
Jeremy Axel explains the integrity issues that pushed him to start Fluid Conveyors and the risks involved.

(00:06:28) Startup Sacrifices & Early Struggles
Jeremy Axel details the grind of starting up, personal sacrifices, lawsuits, and working without pay.

(00:07:55) Persistence & Mindset for Growth
Jeremy Axel discusses the importance of persistence, daily progress, and evolving his mindset as the company grew.

(00:08:52) First Success & Building Confidence 
Jeremy Axel recalls the first major customer win and how it validated their efforts and team.

(00:11:09) Early Embarrassments & Learning Moments
Jeremy Axel shares early mistakes, like lacking an owner’s manual, and the importance of adapting and learning.

(00:12:30) Cash Flow, Capital Expenses & Team Structure 
Discussion on managing cash flow, avoiding unnecessary expenses, and evolving the team structure.

(00:13:33) Bad Decisions & Learning from Mistakes 
Jeremy Axel reflects on business mistakes, learning from them, and focusing on long-term brand building.

(00:15:12) Niche Focus vs. Broad Approach 
Doug and Jeremy Axel discuss whether they targeted a niche or stayed broad, and the impact of early lawsuits.

(00:17:10) Customer Relations & Integrity as Core Values 
Emphasis on customer service, integrity, and building trust as foundational company values.

(00:21:15) Chasing Every Opportunity vs. Focus 
Jeremy Axel explains the turning point when they stopped trying to be everything to everyone and focused on their strengths.

(00:22:14) Sharpening Focus & Specialization
Discussion on the importance of specialization, learning from experience, and resisting the urge to chase all revenue.

(00:24:45) Reflections & Regrets 
Jeremy Axel shares what he would do differently, spending more time with family, but not changing the business journey.

(00:25:28) Advice for Entrepreneurs & Grit 
Jeremy Axel offers advice on grit, focus, and continual improvement for entrepreneurs facing challenges.

(00:27:59) Enjoying the Journey & Podcast Philosophy 
Doug and Jeremy Axel reflect on enjoying the entrepreneurial journey and the meaning behind “Never in Reverse.”

(00:30:36) Encouragement & Closing Thoughts 
Final encouragement to start where you are, focus on grit, and not compare yourself to others.

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Nick pulls back the curtain on his entrepreneurial journey, sharing how his healthcare background shaped his leadership style and the truth about building and managing high-performing remote teams. From reinvesting profits wisely to maintaining momentum in the face of growth, he breaks down the mindset shifts every founder needs to scale with purpose, not pressure.

If you're serious about building a business that’s sustainable, scalable, and built to last, this episode is your blueprint..

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction & Guest Welcome 
Host introduces Nick, founder and CEO of Staff Hero, and sets the stage for the conversation.

(00:01:02) Nick’s Background & Family 
Nick shares about his family, location, and how he found the podcast.

(00:03:04) Entrepreneurial Spark & Early Career 
Nick discusses his early entrepreneurial mindset, healthcare background, and the moment he discovered outsourcing.

(00:04:08) Origins of Staff Hero 
Nick explains how Staff Hero started, initially helping himself and then others with outsourcing.

(00:05:11) Healthcare Experience & Transition 
Nick describes his work in home care and the growing need for healthcare support.

(00:05:55) What Staff Hero Does 
Overview of Staff Hero’s services, focus on the Philippines, and their approach to client and employee experience.

(00:07:22) Global Talent & Outsourcing Benefits 
Discussion on the abundance of global talent, overcoming client fears, and the advantages for startups.

(00:08:16) Company Age & Industry Focus 
Nick shares that Staff Hero is two years old and started in healthcare but now serves various industries.

(00:10:12) Leadership Lessons & Energy Management 
Nick reflects on leadership, emphasizing energy management and setting the tone for the team.

(00:11:29) Supporting Startups & Common Mistakes 
Nick talks about advising startups, common hiring mistakes, and the importance of systems and training.

(00:13:24) Managing Remote Teams & Time Zones 
Nick explains how Staff Hero manages communication and scheduling with Filipino employees across time zones.

(00:15:21) Cultural Differences & Training 
Nick discusses the strengths of Filipino talent and the need for cultural training to better serve U.S. clients.

(00:17:39) Leadership Growth & Personal Development 
Nick shares how healthcare taught him structure, startups taught him speed, and how he combines both.

(00:18:59) Self-Care & Avoiding Burnout 
Nick talks about his approach to self-care, delegation, and trusting his team to prevent burnout.

(00:21:34) Starting Staff Hero: Planning vs. Action 
Nick describes diving into Staff Hero without a formal plan, driven by enthusiasm and support from family.

(00:23:35) Advice for Entrepreneurs
Nick encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to stop doubting themselves, move fast, and maintain momentum.

(00:24:17) Biggest Early Mistake 
Nick admits to paying himself too early and stresses the importance of reinvesting in the business.

(00:25:54) Financial Management & Client Attrition
Nick discusses the unpredictability of clients, budgeting challenges, and the need to plan for attrition.

=================
FOLLOW & LEARN MORE ABOUT Nick Kiridzic: 
=================
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-kiridzic-04218a122/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staffhero.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576276613060
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website: https://www.staffhero.co/

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Discover why transparent communication, strong mentorship, and consistent knowledge sharing are essential for modern manufacturing leadership. You’ll also learn how documenting tribal knowledge, adapting leadership styles, and building real collaboration across generations can elevate productivity, retention, and team culture.

If you’re passionate about leadership, workforce development, or creating a workplace where every generation can thrive, this episode is for you.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Challenging Generational Stereotypes 
Debunking myths about boomers, millennials, and Gen Z; the real issue is leadership communication across generations

(00:00:32) Podcast Introduction & Episode Theme 
Hosts introduce themselves, the podcast, and the focus on leading multiple generations in manufacturing.

(00:01:20) Gen Z Engagement & Learning Styles 
Discussing Gen Z's reputation for disengagement, their tech-driven learning, and differences from older generations.

(00:02:03) Communication, Vision, and Transparency 
Importance of clear communication, transparency, and casting a vision that Gen Z can engage with.

(00:04:42) Challenges in Information Sharing 
Difficulties in providing transparency and clear job responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

(00:05:41) Cross-Departmental Alignment 
Need for roadmaps and better alignment between teams to ensure everyone is informed and connected.

(00:06:20) Empowering Gen Z in Manufacturing 
Integrating Gen Z into a traditional industry, leveraging their skills, and encouraging open communication.

(00:08:18) Balancing Vision and Listening 
Leaders must balance big-picture vision with listening and adapting to team input.

(00:08:37) Transparency and Buy-In Across Generations 
Sharing transformation and vision to avoid resistance and foster unity among age groups.

(00:10:06) Flexibility vs. Execution 
Exploring generational expectations for flexibility, autonomy, and the importance of delivering results.

 (00:11:24) Trust, Accountability, and Knowledge Transfer
Building trust, ensuring accountability, and the critical need for knowledge transfer in manufacturing.

(00:12:56) Mentorship and Self-Directed Learning 
Role of mentorship, self-learning, and the balance between guidance and independence.

(00:14:25) Documenting Tribal Knowledge 
Importance of documenting processes and knowledge to ensure continuity and clarity.

(00:15:12) Choosing the Right Mentors 
Selecting mentors who enjoy teaching and can effectively transfer skills and knowledge.

(00:16:07) Building a Transparent, Data-Driven Culture 
Creating a culture where information is accessible, organized, and not dependent on individuals.

(00:17:06) Consequences of Poor Knowledge Transfer 
Risks of losing undocumented expertise as older workers retire, and the need for structured mentorship.

(00:19:19) Overcoming Resistance to Sharing Knowledge 
Addressing reluctance among experienced workers to mentor newcomers and fostering teamwork.

(00:21:03) Bridging the Generational Gap with Structure 
Implementing documentation and mentorship to ensure smooth generational transitions.

(00:22:10) The Basics and the Need for Clear Documentation 
Highlighting gaps in basic skills and stressing the need for clear, replicable documentation.

(00:23:35) Leadership, Mentorship, and the Right Personality 
The importance of having leaders and mentors with the right skills and attitudes to bridge generational divides.

(00:24:29) Hybrid Procedures and Adapting to Change 
Developing procedures that work for all generations and preparing for inevitable workforce transitions.

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=================
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Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction & Guest Welcome 

Host introduces the podcast, Paul Glover’s background, and welcomes him as a guest.

 (00:01:45) How Paul Found the Podcast

Paul explains how he was referred to the show by another podcaster.

 (00:02:33) Paul’s Chicago Roots & Family

 Paul discusses moving to Chicago, his family, and his long marriage.

(00:03:25) Military Service & Return to Chicago 

Paul shares about being drafted, serving in Vietnam, and returning to Chicago.

(00:04:21) Becoming a Trial Attorney 

Paul describes his passion for being a federal trial attorney and the performance aspect of the job.

(00:06:45) Descent into Crime & Conviction 

Paul details how he became involved in criminal activities, his indictment, and conviction for white-collar crimes.

(00:07:48) Charges and Conviction Details 

Paul lists the specific crimes he was convicted of: kickbacks, embezzlement, money laundering, and witness tampering.

(00:09:06) Rock Bottom & Family Impact 

Paul discusses the emotional and financial devastation his conviction caused his family.

(00:10:15) Prison, Revenge Fantasies, and Turning Point 

Paul describes his initial mindset in prison and the pivotal moment on his 50th birthday that led to accepting accountability.

Transformation & Coaching Beginnings (00:11:41) 

Paul explains how he decided to transform, realized he needed support, and began considering coaching as a career.

 (00:13:11) Wife’s Role in Transformation

Paul recounts how his wife set strict rules for his transformation and became his first source of “the gift of truth.”

(00:18:03) The No BS Mindset Origin 

Paul credits his wife’s approach as the foundation for his “no BS” coaching philosophy.

 (00:20:34) Service in Prison: Teaching GED

Paul describes his first experience of service by teaching GED classes to young inmates.

(00:25:13) Discovering Coaching Skills in Prison 

Paul realizes his ability to influence and help others, leading to his decision to become a coach.

(00:26:34) Coaching Philosophy & Process 

Paul outlines his strict coaching program, the importance of truth, and his use of 360-degree reviews.

(00:33:23) Radical Candor & Leadership Adaptability 

Paul discusses the need for radical candor, adaptability, and the evolving nature of leadership.

(00:36:42) Resilience, Anti-Fragility, and Failing Forward 

Paul shares his philosophy on resilience, anti-fragility, and using failure as a springboard for growth.

(00:39:17) Lessons from Failure & Accountability 

Paul explains the importance of accepting failure, learning lessons, and taking ownership as a leader.

(00:43:40) Consequences, Recidivism, and Final Thoughts 

Paul discusses the necessity of consequences for bad behavior, recidivism among inmates, and the importance of accountability.

(00:45:15) Closing Remarks & Resources 

Host thanks Paul, mentions his books and website, and wraps up the episode.

FOLLOW & LEARN MORE ABOUT PAUL GLOVER: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulglovercoaching/ 

Website: https://paulglovercoaching.com/ 

Book: https://shorturl.at/ux76N

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In episode 40 of the "Never and Reverse Podcast," hosts Jeremy Axel and Doug Cox dissect this ongoing challenge of balancing profit and purpose. They explore the pressures entrepreneurs face to sacrifice values for financial gain, the critical importance of saying no to misaligned opportunities, and the non-negotiable need for authentic, integrity-driven leadership.

Emphasizing open communication and adaptability, they provide a framework for leaders to prioritize company values and team engagement, arguing that true profitability follows when organizations remain steadfastly true to their mission. This episode is essential listening for any leader striving to ensure their vision leads to meaningful impact, not self-deception.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

Core Dilemma & Leadership Mindset
(00:00:00) Introduction: The Profit vs. Purpose Dilemma - The central tension is introduced.

(00:02:02) Leadership Decisions: People vs. Profit - Establishes that leaders set the tone by choosing between these priorities.

(00:04:08) Integrity Over Chasing Money - Emphasizes prioritizing process and integrity, especially during tough times.

(00:10:53) Purpose-Driven vs. Purpose-Delusional Leadership - A crucial distinction between authentic purpose and a toxic, unrealistic vision.

Practical Strategies for Alignment
(00:03:05) Learning to Say No & Pre-Qualifying Clients - The key tactic of refining sales processes to ensure alignment.

(00:06:18) Discovery Phase & Alignment - Explains how the sales discovery process is used to stay within core competencies.

00:08:08) Stretching into New Markets - Discusses how to expand without compromising core values.

(00:19:08) Empowering Teams for Win-Win Decisions - Stresses the importance of empowering the entire team, not just leadership, to uphold values.

The Outcome: Why Purpose Comes First
(00:18:22) Profit Follows Purpose and Alignment - The core conclusion: profit is a natural result of getting purpose and team alignment right.

(00:23:18) Final Thoughts: Integrity and Purpose First - The final takeaway: align integrity and purpose first, and profitability will follow.

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Adi shares insights on why consulting engagements fail, the importance of aligning values, and how effective documentation drives measurable results. They discuss overcoming resistance, building trust, and integrating AI to streamline operations. Eddie emphasizes collaboration, clear ROI, and sustaining improvements through structured processes. 

The conversation provides practical advice for leaders and consultants, highlighting how clarity, commitment, and effective systems can transform businesses and enable sustainable growth.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Why People Fail with Consulting 
Opening question about common reasons consulting engagements fail.

(00:00:02) Importance of Fit and Commitment 
Discussing the need for alignment in values, methodology, and being fully committed to consulting.

(00:00:45) Introduction Host Jeremy Axel introduces the podcast

(00:01:18) Why Listen to This Episode 
Adi Klevit explains the main takeaway: process documentation is not as hard or unnecessary as people think.

(00:01:58) Adi’s Career and Company Origins 
Eddie describes her background and why she started her consulting company.

(00:02:24) Rethinking Consulting for Modern Business 
Discussion on the evolution from traditional consulting to transformation and value-driven results.

(00:03:57) Delivering Tangible Results and ROI
Adi Klevit explains her approach, which involves providing playbooks and process maps and focusing on measurable ROI.

(00:06:07) Overcoming Pushback on Soft Costs
Addressing resistance from stakeholders regarding hidden or soft costs in process improvement.

(00:07:07) Getting Buy-In and Defining Success 
Importance of consulting with all stakeholders to define ROI and ensure buy-in.

(00:07:30) Collaboration vs. Surface-Level Advice 
Distinguishing effective consulting from superficial advice; emphasizing partnership and collaboration.

(00:08:06) Defining the Consulting Partnership 
Adi Klevit's approach: co-defining goals, ensuring mutual participation, and the necessity of client engagement.

(00:09:17) Collaboration vs. Correction 
Why collaboration is essential for change management and process adoption.

(00:09:54) The Importance of “Why” in Process Documentation 
Starting every engagement by clarifying the client’s motivation for documenting processes.

(00:11:24) Building Trust and Empathy
The a need for trust, empathy, and careful communication when consulting with business owners.

(00:12:11) Scalability and Implementation 
How Adi Klevit approaches scaling systems and processes after initial buy-in and roadmap creation.

(00:12:52) Maintaining and Updating Processes 
The importance of ongoing maintenance, process champions, and keeping documentation current.

(00:13:33) Overcoming Legacy Thinking and Burnout 
Challenges of changing long-standing habits and addressing employee burnout due to poor processes.

(00:15:28) Celebrating Client Success Stories 
Adi Klevit shares the satisfaction of seeing clients succeed after implementing new systems.

(00:16:06) Consulting as Leadership and Growth 
How effective consulting empowers leadership and enables business growth.

(00:18:17) Returning Clients and Ongoing Relationships 
Adi Klevit discusses the frequency of repeat business and long-term client relationships.

(00:18:22) Balancing Strategy and Execution 
How Adi Klevit balances strategic planning with hands-on execution in diverse teams.

(00:19:25) Keys to Successful Consulting Engagements 
Advice for clients: alignment, commitment, open communication, and defining expectations.

(00:20:28) The Role of AI in Consulting 
Discussion on how AI is transforming consulting, increasing efficiency, and freeing up time for deeper work.

(00:24:44) AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement
Encouragement to embrace AI as a productivity tool, not something to fear.

(00:25:38) Building Relationships in the AI Era
AI frees up time for more meaningful human connections and networking.

(00:26:30) Advice for Young Consultants 
Eddie’s tips: find your niche, get results, collect testimonials, and build credibility.

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They share real-world lessons on what can go wrong and right when bringing someone onto your team, from hiring friends or family to setting clear expectations and avoiding early hiring mistakes.

If you’re an entrepreneur, startup founder, or small business owner, this episode delivers practical insights on leadership, accountability, and team building, helping you make smarter hiring decisions that actually support your growth.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00)  The Gamble of the First Hire
Discussing the misconception of the first hire as a milestone, emphasizing it's actually a significant gamble for entrepreneurs.

(00:00:19) Introduction 

(00:01:23) The Excitement and Fallacy of the First Hire 
Exploring the emotional high and unrealistic expectations entrepreneurs have when making their first hire.

(00:02:23) Delegation and Lack of Structure 
Challenges of delegating responsibilities without clear structure or expectations for the new hire.

(00:03:04) Personal Experiences with First Hires 
Hosts share their own stories about hiring too early and the lack of preparation and clarity.

(00:05:09) The Importance of Setting Expectations 
Discussing how crucial it is to set clear expectations and follow through with accountability for new hires.

(00:07:09) Risks and Costs of Hiring Too Early 
Examining the dangers of premature hiring, including ego, onboarding costs, and lack of readiness.

(00:09:22) Delegation, Trust, and Maturity 
The need for maturity, trust, and proper delegation as the business grows beyond startup mode.

(00:10:50) Goal Setting and Alignment 
Importance of having clear short- and long-term goals and ensuring new hires align with them.

(00:12:32) Firing Fast and Avoiding Dead Weight 
Learning to let go of underperforming employees quickly to maintain a healthy company culture.

(00:13:55) Loyalty, Friendship, and Business Boundaries 
Navigating the complexities of hiring friends, maintaining boundaries, and separating business from personal relationships.

(00:16:07) Hiring Friends and Family: Pitfalls and Growth 
Reflecting on the challenges and necessary maturity when hiring friends or family members.

(00:19:12) The Resume vs. Reality 
Warning about the gap between a candidate’s resume/interview and their actual performance in a startup environment.

(00:21:34) Dealing with Bad Hires and Firing 
Sharing experiences with bad hires, the importance of reviews, and the difficulty of firing employees.

(00:23:33) Growth Stages and Team Evolution 
Discussing business growth milestones and the need for team members to evolve and level up with the company.

(00:25:59) Evaluating Fit and Employee Aspirations 
Encouraging honest conversations about whether the company is the right vehicle for employees’ personal goals.

(00:27:42) Letting Go and Maintaining Culture 
Recognizing when team members are no longer growing with the company and the importance of maintaining a strong culture.

(00:29:32) Listening to the Team and Making Changes 
The value of feedback from employees and making necessary changes to support collective growth.

(00:30:02) Final Thoughts and Practical Hiring Tips 
Concluding advice: treat the first hire as a gamble, be strategic, check references, and consider trial periods.

==========
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Website: https://neverinreverse.com/

With 17 years of experience, an MBA in finance, and advanced training from Harvard, MIT, and Northwestern, Joe brings both heart and strategy to the discussion. He shares how mediation empowers couples to make emotionally and financially sound decisions outside the courtroom, protecting families, sanity, and futures.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction
(00:02:50) Joe Dillon's Background and Credentials
(00:03:11) Joe Dillon's Experience in Corporate Publishing
(00:04:21) Joe Dillon's Background and Transition to Mediation
(00:05:10) Personal Experiences with Divorce
(00:05:40) The Lack of Art and Integrity in Disruption and Personal Experiences with Divorce
(00:06:15) Relationships and the Win-Lose Mindset
(00:06:50) Personal Perspectives and Podcast Discovery
(00:07:47) Joe's Music Listening Habits and Discovery of the Podcast
(00:08:41) Introduction to Joe Dillon's Expertise and Background
(00:09:27) Joe Dillon's Motivation and Perspective on Conflict Resolution
(00:10:00) Commonalities and a Personal Story in Hong Kong
(00:11:35) The Impact of Mediation and Personal Experiences
(00:13:08) Personal Growth and Perspective
(00:13:49) Misconceptions About Divorce
(00:20:38) Agreement and Integrity in Negotiation
(00:21:46) Dynamics in Conflict Resolution and Personal Impact
(00:23:01) Personal Discovery and Addressing Past Insecurities
(00:24:15) Understanding Childhood Perspectives and Professional Parallels
(00:25:30) Mediation and Personal Responsibility
(00:26:45) The Mediator's Role and Future Trends
(00:27:35) The Impact of AI on Mediation
(00:31:40) Advice for Newlyweds: Prenups and Financial Compatibility
(00:32:52) Family and Career Considerations
(00:34:06) Importance of Clear Agreements and Addressing Difficult Times
(00:35:22) Advice for those going through a divorce
(00:36:37) Concluding Remarks and Guest Information

========================================
CONNECT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT JOE DILLON
========================================
Instagram:   / equitablemediation 
Facebook:  

They discuss the value of building diverse partnerships and why proactive risk management matters now more than ever. Jeremy and Doug also highlight how data, automation, and transparent vendor relationships, including on-site visits and due diligence, help companies build supply chains that are stronger and more adaptable.

Full of practical advice and honest insights, this episode shows how every disruption can become a chance to grow and innovate.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Overview of the episode’s focus: real-world supply chain crises, ignored red flags, and innovations turning bottlenecks into breakthrough

(00:01:14) Personal Experiences and COVID-19 Lessons 

Hosts share personal stories from COVID-19, highlighting vulnerabilities like single-source dependencies and lack of diversification

(00:03:55)  Impact of Tariff Wars and Ongoing Supply Chain Struggles 

Discussion of recent tariff wars, ongoing supply chain pressures, and the importance of supplier diversification.

(00:06:43) Risks of Single-Source and Specialized Vendors 

Exploring challenges with unique, patented, or single-source components and the pain of limited vendor options.

(00:09:10) Leveraging Data and Automation in Supply Chains 

How historical data and automation can improve purchasing decisions, planning, and vendor communication.

(00:10:13) Proactive Vendor Communication and Planning 

Emphasizing the need for proactive engagement with suppliers and learning from past disruptions.

(00:10:36) Vendor Relationships and the Importance of Diversification 

The value of strong vendor relationships, diversification, and learning from chip shortages in automotive supply chains.

(00:12:34) Automating and Structuring Supply Chain Data 

Benefits of automating data, creating unified systems, and supporting both urgent and planned customer needs.

(00:15:38) Understanding Vendor Vulnerabilities and Customer Impact 

Encouraging open conversations with vendors about their constraints to better serve customers and avoid losing business.

(00:16:43) Site Visits and Vendor Validation 

The importance of on-site vendor visits, looking beyond marketing, and validating capabilities before committing.

(00:19:24) Building Trust and Avoiding Marketing Traps 

Why direct references and transparency matter more than flashy marketing or case studies in vendor selection.

(00:23:11) Final Takeaways: Diversification, Validation, and Seamless Partnerships

Key advice: diversity suppliers, validate vendors, automate data, and build seamless, trustworthy supply chain partnerships.

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The hosts highlight that effective delegation is key to scaling a business, improving morale, and fostering innovation, urging leaders to let go, empower their teams, and focus on strategic growth rather than micromanagement.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) The Hidden Danger of Founder Control
Why companies fail due to founders’ need for control; delegation as survival, not surrender.

(00:01:55) Delegation as a Breaking Point
Jeremy shares a personal story about reaching a health crisis due to a lack of delegation.

(00:02:44) Building the Right Team & Guardrails
Importance of having the right people and setting clear brand guardrails for effective delegation.

(00:04:14) Letting Go of Insecurity and Control
Jeremy discusses insecurity as a root cause for not delegating and learning to trust team's abilities.

(00:05:50) Risks of Micromanagement and Bottlenecks
How micromanagement creates bottlenecks, stifles growth, and impacts organizational processes.

(00:07:32) Personal and Operational Costs of Control
Negative effects of excessive control on health, family, and business operations.

(00:09:44) Trust, Accountability, and Avoiding Micromanagement
Balancing trust and accountability; why micromanagement is unsustainable as a business scales.

(00:12:06) The Bottleneck of Approval & Process Design
How approval bottlenecks slow progress; need for clear processes to empower teams.

(00:13:05) Permission to Fail and Team Involvement
Allowing team members to fail and learn; importance of involving others in decision-making.

(00:14:38) Attention to Detail vs. Speed
Balancing speed and quality; risks of repeated mistakes due to lack of clarity or detail.

(00:15:40) Impact of Control on Team Morale
How lack of delegation drains team morale, trust, and process efficiency.

(00:16:33) Leadership Gaps and Departmental Friction
Problems caused by poor leadership at various levels have resulted in interdepartmental friction.

(00:18:06) Delegation and Elevation
Jeremy’s mantra: “Delegate and elevate”; need for transparency and clarity in delegation.

(00:18:52) Delegation Structure and Bandwidth
Creating non-paralyzing delegation structures; ensuring team members have the capacity for new tasks.

(00:19:58) Delegation Audit and Bottlenecks
Conducting delegation audits to identify bottlenecks and wasted time; real-world example of firing due to bottlenecking.

(00:22:04) Encouraging Fast Failure and Learning
Preferring quick action and learning from mistakes over slow, perfectionist approaches.

(00:22:18) Delegation’s Effect on Customer and Employee Experience
How poor delegation impacts morale, customer service, and business results.

(00:23:04) Letting Go and Trusting the Team
Encouragement to let go, trust the team, and reevaluate roles if delegation fails.

(00:24:20) Final Thoughts: Stop Micromanaging
Summary advice: delegate, trust, fix systems, and avoid micromanagement for business and personal growth.

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The conversation highlights the importance of grit, adaptability, and prioritizing quality over quantity. Real-world stories and practical tips illustrate how aligning sales promises with company capabilities and building authentic relationships help sales professionals weather tough times and thrive in challenging markets.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

(00:00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview 

(00:01:05) Sales Vulnerability and Honesty 

Emphasizing vulnerability, honesty, and saying "no" in sales to build trust and protect credibility.

(00:03:24) Aligning Sales Promises with Delivery

Discussing the importance of matching sales promises with operational capabilities and being transparent with customers.

(00:06:30) Personal Brand and Long-Term Relationships 

How personal brand and reputation are shaped by honesty and long-term relationship building in sales.

(00:07:34) People Before Profit Philosophy 

Advocating for prioritizing relationships over commissions for sustainable sales success.

(00:08:10) Building Deeper Customer Connections 

The value of trust, problem-solving, and personal connection in modern sales environments.

(00:09:10) Standing Up to Unethical Sales Pressure 

Stories about resisting leadership pressure to close bad deals and maintaining personal ethics.

(00:12:02) Pre-Qualifying Questions and Transparency 

Using budget, timeline, and decision-maker questions to pre-qualify leads and ensure transparency.

(00:14:20) Wasted Time on Poor-Fit Leads 

Statistics and anecdotes about the high percentage of time wasted on leads that don’t fit.

(00:15:52) Revenue-Generating Activities and Time Management 

Advice on calculating your worth, focusing on revenue-generating activities, and aligning time with goals.

(00:20:20) Grit vs. Natural Talent in Sales 

Comparing the value of grit and adaptability versus natural charisma in sales performance.

(00:23:35) Learning from Top Performers 

Encouraging learning from successful peers, mentors, and always adding new skills to your sales toolkit.

(00:28:10) Continuous Improvement and Industry Learning 

The importance of ongoing learning from others’ experiences and adapting through market changes.

(00:28:36) Recap and Final Advice 

Summary of key points: honor your time, be diligent, adapt, and focus on relationships over transactions.

(00:29:21) Belief in Product and Career Alignment 

Stressing the need to believe in what you sell and aligning your career with your values.

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Jeremy and Douglas share actionable insights on recognizing leadership weaknesses, investing in the right people, and building a culture that embraces adaptability and innovation. They discuss the pitfalls that occur when a sales team's growth outpaces its infrastructure, and why proactive leaders must champion new technologies and process improvements to avoid chaos and inefficiency.

Listen for practical strategies, including:
- Overcoming leadership stonewalling and resistance to change
- Harnessing automation to streamline operations without losing the human touch
- Creating scalable, repeatable processes for long-term growth
- Identifying the hidden costs of inefficiency and fragmented systems
- Fostering accountability and clarity through process mapping and data-driven decision-making

Whether you’re a business owner, team leader, or aspiring manager, this episode will empower you to drive operational efficiency and process improvement without sacrificing your team’s humanity. 

Timestamps:
[00:00:07] Intro & Banter
[00:02:15] Transition to Podcast Topic
[00:03:38] Leadership Stonewalling & Resistance
[00:04:38] Frontline Feedback & Organizational Stagnation
[00:06:38] Recognizing and Overcoming Stonewalling
[00:07:34] Decision-Making & Research Pitfalls
[00:07:59] Leadership Insecurity & Ego
[00:08:32] Outdated Investments & Resistance to Change
[00:09:39] Ego, Image, and Internal Investment
[00:10:30] Strong vs. Weak Leadership
[00:12:44] Recognizing Leadership Weaknesses
[00:13:28] Culture of Stagnation & Competition
[00:13:56] Sales Team Challenges & Stonewalling
[00:14:23] Leadership’s Unrealistic Expectations
[00:16:14] Navigating Internal Challenges as a Leader
[00:17:05] Automation, Processes, and Human Element
[00:17:24] Proactive vs. Reactive Management
[00:17:56] Fragmented Systems & Implementation Resistance
[00:19:13] Integration & Data Transparency
[00:21:06] Critical Thinking & Continuous Improvement
[00:21:48] Automating for Growth & Personal Development
[00:23:08] Maintaining Humanity in Business
[00:23:22] Reality of Scaling & Automation
[00:25:12] Alignment & Data-Driven Processes
[00:26:02] Decision-Making Agility
[00:26:10] Hidden Costs of Inefficiency
[00:27:08] Automation vs. Adding Headcount
[00:27:53] Accountability & Broken Processes
[00:29:12] Process Mapping & Customer Experience

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We dive into:
- How highlight reels and media hype distort the realities of business success
- The importance of persistence, resilience, and long-term effort over chasing perfection
- The hidden balance of luck vs. grind in every success story
- Surprising stats about how long real business success actually takes

If you’ve ever felt discouraged by someone else’s highlight reel or wondered if you’re falling behind, this episode will inspire you to embrace the unglamorous, powerful truth: business success is earned through hard work, setbacks, and determination far from the overnight sensation it’s made out to be.

But it’s not all warning signs we also dive into practical solutions. You’ll hear how to balance ego with humility, why leaders must lead by example, and how building mutual understanding with your team creates lasting success. From putting the right people in the right roles, to embracing feedback, to continually learning beyond what you once knew, this episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is about growth, collaboration, and lifting others up as you move forward together.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[0:00] Introduction to Never In Reverse Ep 33

[3:11] The ego in leadership, hosts share their bad habits, thoughts, and how business team leaders need to call each other out from time to time.

[6:00] The difference between ego and passion

[7:20] Owners need to lead by example

[8:50] having humility within your own ego to keep growing

[11:43] Have an understanding with your team - things cannot be one sided

[13:23] Get the right people in the right seats.

[15:00] How feedback can make us great

[17:32] Know your people, know you team

[19:00] Keep learning up-to-date material, not just what you learned in college

[22:10] Step in and help, no matter your rule because rules don’t really matter

[26:20] Owners and employees should work to better each other

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For more detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:

[0:00] Introduction 

[2:00] Every phase is different - the financial side of starting up

[8:25] Accept help from mentors

[11:00] Failing at first is okay

[16:14] Rushing just causes a headache

[24:26] We can do hard things

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Jeremy and Doug begin by discussing their parents’ divorces. Divorce was different in Doug’s family and in Jeremy’s, and both learned from their parents’ experiences and carried traumas with them. Next, they explore how coming from a broken home can lead to fearing abandonment, and what healing has looked like for them. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[0:00] Introduction

[2:52] Today’s episode topic is near and dear to Doug and Jeremy: growing up with a divorced parent. This can be a touchy topic, particularly as the feelings you experience as a child manifest in unexpected ways as an adult. 

[4:55] Doug’s parents divorced about a month before his fifth birthday. They were very transparent about what was going on, and Doug never felt that it was his fault.

[8:22] Doug didn’t feel any toxic pressure from his parents during the divorce. His parents were very young and did the best that they could. 

[10:32] Jeremy grew up in an unsafe environment due to his parents’ divorce. He found refuge in his friends and in sports.

[15:01] Doug always viewed his father and stepmom as a safe place, so they proved his fear of abandonment wrong. However, there were still elements he missed in his connection with his mom.

[18:09] Jeremy still struggles with his fear of abandonment. He found some safety in his stepdad’s family and in his Aunt Diana. 

[25:55] Doug and Jeremy sometimes still have unrealistic expectations of their parents, specifically their mothers, stemming from their childhoods. 

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Dating apps offer a new tool and a new obstacle to singles as the instant accessibility of apps leads to frequent “ghosting.” Jeremy and Doug discuss the motivations and effects of ghosting, and how dating apps enable instant gratification and the ability to cut anyone off at any time – for better or for worse.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[0:00] Introduction

[3:47] Today’s conversation is about dating. Doug’s first relationship in high school taught him how to deal with heartbreak, and that things will not always work out as they initially seem they will. 

[9:32] Jeremy found it easier to hide behind sports and his other interests in early relationships to avoid having to be vulnerable. He learned to take accountability and use mistakes to improve. 

[14:47] The dating landscape has changed dramatically over the last ten years. It has become very difficult to date as any small perceived misstep in communication can be the difference between a date and a swipe left.

[18:08] The easy abandonment of dating apps can also leave you feeling very vulnerable very quickly, particularly if you have problems with rejection that you have not addressed.

[24:47] Boundaries and baggage go hand in hand. In a healthy relationship, you take accountability for your baggage and grow with your partner, whether that is by creating new boundaries or adhering to your partner’s boundaries. 

[28:56] Society expects men to keep their personal lives private, which can make it very difficult to open up with someone new. 

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Doug and Jeremy begin by discussing the “overqualification trap” that they see more and more new workers falling into – and how to avoid it. Next, they move on to discussing compensation and how underpayment can be a matter of perspective. Finally, they discuss common misconceptions and myths on exploitation. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[0:00] Introduction

[4:04] Today’s episode will focus on how people become overqualified and underpaid. Jeremy terms this problem the “overqualification trap,” and he says it has a lot to do with higher education paths people go down.

[7:14] Employers are growing tired of applicants presenting a degree as the key piece of evidence that they deserve a job. You have to work your way up, and work experience is becoming much more important as a result.

[9:33] Most people who get their higher education in a field do not go into a career in that field. 

[13:33] When possible, Jeremy likes to test applicants on skills through hands-on skill testing. This allows him to look past resumes and learn who his candidates are. 

[18:54] Fluent Conveyors is a very transparent organization. Jeremy shares his plans for the company’s future with his teams and looks for feedback from all of his employees. 

[19:57] Barriers to entry, income limits, and hierarchies can be used to exploit salespeople. Some companies put their sales teams in a box by demanding an unnecessary level of control over them. 

[27:26] Environments that do not push their teams do not allow their team members to grow. Organizations that recognize the talent they have hired push their staff to perform at their best.

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Doug and Jeremy begin by discussing their family’s experiences with public school, from Doug’s experiences with new curriculum to the reason Jeremy began investing in private education for his children. Next, they move into higher education and public education more generally, and where they see cultural shifts impacting the education system. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:58] Today’s episode is about education in America, particularly as it reforms in the current political climate. Jeremy and Doug are fathers whose children go to school, and their perspectives are based on their experiences. 

[7:00] Doug has seen changes both in curriculum and in the technology his children use at school. 

[10:31] Jeremy has a four-year-old and a five-year-old, both of which go to a private school. Jeremy says that he now has to pay for the experience that public schools gave him as a child, because public schools can no longer provide it.

[16:59] For the most part, there is no reason to go to an Ivy League any more for a general degree. In the current job market, an English degree is not going to get you a career than will pay for your education. 

[21:40] Student loans are a hot-buitton political issue. Jeremy says that while people have to take responsibility for their financial decisions, there is also an inherent difficulty in being held responsible for a financial decision you make as a teenager.

[29:10] Jeremy is seeing a massive shift in technology that he believes will revolutionize education, and may eventually make public education as we know it obsolete. 

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Doug and Jeremy start by discussing how their view of purpose has changed throughout their lives, and what motivated them now. They move into discussion purpose as it relates to passion, purpose at work, and purpose as fathers. Finally, Jeremy and Doug explain how redefining success could help you live a more fulfilling life. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[2:39] Today’s episode is about finding your purpose. At a young age, Doug wanted to be in the army because his father was in the coastguard, and Jeremy wanted to be a sniper.

[5:04] Men in particular tend to lead with their careers, which can make us feel that our careers are our purpose. However, this often isn’t the most fulfilling purpose for us. 

[7:49] Doug’s purpose is to be a provider and a father. While some of his personal fulfillments are sacrificed, he derives joy from raising his children.

[15:43] What is the difference between purpose and passion? Doug says that his purpose is like an engine to help him live, whereas his passions are the things he works for. 

[21:17] Jeremy and Doug are in an exciting place with their business, and sometimes have to sacrifice their personal lives to keep up. However, they always work to make time for their families because they want to leave their children with valuable memories. 

[25:08] One way to build a culture of purpose is to recognize the people around you for their achievements. 

[29:59] Jeremy wants to get his team into a spot where they are extremely efficient while giving his team time to take care of their families and friends. 

[33:50] Success is not just financial. If you only have financial success, you will be left feeling isolated.

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Doug and Jeremy begin by discussing the role models that they had as children, from famous athletes to coaches to family friends. They move into discussing how the media shapes our role models, and how to pick healthier and more relevant people to draw inspiration from. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[2:39] Today’s episode is about unconventional role models, specifically as they relate to becoming a man and a father. Doug says that he looked up to athletes growing up and gravitated toward coaches as he got older.

[4:46] Jeremy looked up to a close friend’s father growing up as he struggled to find calmness in his own home environment. In high school, Jeremy found role models in his coaches.

[11:42] Jeremy suggests that the role models we are encouraged to follow on TV aren’t as useful as real-life role models, particularly family men. 

[14:33] Doug says that there are more influences on our children today than there were in his childhood in the age of social media. 

[19:34] Jeremy says that the content-driven landscape we live in can present distorted images of our role models, and sometimes overexaggerates small missteps. 

[24:42] Social media overexaggerates wealth, both in terms of its importance and the possibility that anyone can become wealthy. Doug is instilling a more realistic view of wealth in his children.

[27:29] Doug finds inspiration in people who have worked hard to master their craft. He values authenticity in his role models over perfection.

[32:21] Doug feels fortunate that he has a network of genuine and kindhearted people, both in his professional life and in his personal life. 

[34:11] Jeremy suggests letting go of the types of role models we have as children, specifically in the form of famous athletes or celebrities. Instead, you can find inspiration in your friendships.

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While Doug and Jeremy both like to listen to music, they approach music somewhat differently, with Doug taking an interest in more common forms of music while Jeremy enjoys meditation music and even white noise to sleep along with other genres. Doug and Jeremy both use music to motivate themselves and to focus during the workday.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[5:12] Today’s episode is about music and productivity, which Jeremy find difficult to talk about because he feels like music is constantly playing in his head. Doug reflects on concerts that he and his family have been to. 

[7:59] Doug finds that music helps him get inspired and motivated, whether he is exercising or working.

[9:52] Jeremy sleeps to white noise to sleep, which Doug is not able to sleep to. 

[18:27] Jeremy and Doug reflect on the role of music in sports, specifically in their college days playing football. They used music to energize themselves, and they still use music similar sometimes today.  

[19:30] Jeremy cannot listen to very energetic music while he is working, and prefers to work to quiet music to avoid distraction. 

[24:49] Jeremy is an open book when it comes to music genres. He has his preferences, but is always open to discovering new music, particularly live music.

[30:22] Doug loves going to concerts and taking his family to concerts. Jeremy reflects on some of his favorite concerts he’s seen.

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Doug and Jeremy begin by discussing AI in a business setting, from who has adopted it to how it is used, emphasizing that AI should not be used to replace human beings. They move into ethical considerations, particularly concerns around data privacy and security. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:56] Today’s conversation is about AI, and in particular the ethics of AI. Never in Reverse is all about continuing to move forward as technology advances, so Doug and Jeremy want to explore how to use some of the most cutting-edge technology available. 

[7:09] While AI is not going to replace humanity, it is a tool that businesses need to adapt to now or risk being left behind. 

[14:29] The question is not whether or not society will adopt new technology like AI – it is whether you and your organization will embrace it before the rest of society does.

[17:36] Lots of organizations are concerned about digital privacy with AI. Jeremy notes that many of our privacy concerns, particularly around personal data, are already exploited by digital marketing. 

[23:15] Doug has a friend who works at Google who has expressed ethical concerns about the pervasiveness of AI.

[28:43] While AI can do many tasks for us, it is still important for us to learn how to do skills that AI can assist us with and to pass on that knowledge to future generations.

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Jeremy and Doug begin by discussing how they learned to network. Like all other aspects of business, networking is a skill that can be learned and improved upon. They move into discussing how to network authentically and specific mentors who have taught them valuable skills

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:56] The topic for today’s episode is networking. Referrals and relationships are extremely power in business and beyond. 

[7:35] Early in his career, Jeremy wanted to build a network but did not understand how to do so in practice. His relationships were overly transactional. 

[13:05] Building strong relationships is about understanding what you can do for the people you work with and getting to the root of what they want. 

[17:30] The second half of the episode will focus on the importance of professional relationships and mentors. Doug’s father was an important mentor for him.  

[20:44] Jeremy talks about a mentor he had at his first job. He taught Jeremy about sales and other important skills that he still uses today.

[25:00] Jeremy and Doug speak to the importance of authenticity and honesty in business relationships. 

[33:10] Doug gravitates towards successful people. When he worked in telecommunications, Doug listened to a successful salesperson’s calls to learn about new sales strategies.

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In this personal conversation, Doug and Jeremy begin by discussing some of the obstacles that they have faced that still continue to weigh on them, specifically around their relationships with their mothers. As Doug and Jeremy have grown, they have learned how to rewrite their own narratives and pivot when necessary to create a healthier and happier life for themselves and their families. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[4:21] Today’s episode is about re-writing your narrative, which is a very personal subject for Jeremy and Doug. Our narratives are the stories we tell ourselves, and we can rewrite them to drive ourselves forward. 

[5:28] Doug is still learning how to rewrite his narrative. He wants to rewrite his narrative to adjust to changes and make the most of his life. 

[8:12] Doug and Jeremy both have some parts of their lives that can bring up issues for them, particularly around their mothers. Jeremy is striving to steer his narrative toward his future instead of focusing on his past. 

[12:50] Jeremy hasn’t always had control over his narrative and often found that his past was finding its way into his decision-making. 

[17:20] Doug forgave his mother for her behavior years ago, but found that some of the emotions resurfaced following the passing of his stepfather. He also has learned how to use his emotions to motivate him.

[22:23] Jeremy can empathize with his mother’s difficulties recognizing her own mistakes. It is difficult to self-reflect and admit when you’re wrong. Jeremy has worked to better own his mistakes and take a different path.

[26:20] Sometimes Jeremy will pivot in real time; he even leaves a the room to collect himself and try again when he knows he isn’t equipped to deal with something in the moment. 

[33:22] Doug tells a story of a time that he set a boundary with his mother that she crossed in multiple ways. While he empathizes with her position, he had to put guardrails up for his family.

[40:15] Jeremy and Doug discuss what they would do if they could go back and rewrite their own narratives.

[48:50] Jeremy is chipping away at his narrative a little at a time to create the best life for himself and his family.

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Starting from their work lives, Doug and Jeremy are both working to implement rituals and time-blocking at work, but this sometimes rubs up against the reality of work in a dynamic industry. In their personal lives, Doug and Jeremy use rituals to maintain their health and spend time with their loved ones while breaking rituals that no longer serve them.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:12] Today’s episode is about the power of rituals. For Doug, time blocking has been useful, though his dynamic work environment sometimes prevents him from sticking to his plans.

[5:35] Jeremy tends to take an in-the-moment approach to his work, which can have negative consequences in both his personal and work life. He is working to implement self-care rituals to counteract this. 

[10:35] In his personal life, Doug’s main ritual is working out three to five days a week.. He gets up between 4:30 and 5 to get his workout in before work.

[16:10] Jeremy and Doug live very fast-paced lives. The constant flow of responsibilities can make maintaining rituals difficult. Jeremy points out the importance of living with intentionality. 

[19:58] Drinking was a ritual that Jeremy picked up from his upbringing. It took him time to realize that his environment led to this ritual, and that the ritual was not serving him.

[25:58] By changing his rituals, Doug has made memories with his children that they still treasure. Rituals can be a key piece of living with intention and being present with your family.

[28:30] We want to hear from you – how have you broken negative habits and created new rituals? 

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Jeremy and Doug also dive into the digital world’s impact on our fear of missing out, as social media shows us the best moments from everyone else. We can start to take our attention back by detoxing from the digital world, though it’s easier said than done. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[4:40] Today’s episode is about the fear of missing out and the joy of missing out. The theme of this episode plays into the larger idea of the show to help people grow.

[5:51] Doug does not worry about missing out as much as he used to. He still experiences some fear of missing out, but it is not as prevalent. 

[10:57] As adults, we also have to recognize that our children will have the same fear of missing out that we used to. Setting up an open line of communication will help your kids learn to be truthful with you and allow you to help them make better decisions.

[15:12] As you get more comfortable with yourself, you also get more comfortable with your own decisions. This can help you “miss out” without the fear and self-judgement. 

[18:30] Jeremy and Doug move into discussing digital detoxes. Our devices can interfere with out connections, especially as we struggle to break the habits we’ve formed around technology. 

[22:32] One improvement Doug has made is setting limits on his email notifications. This helps him limit not just his time spent on his phone, but also the time he spends thinking about work outside of work.

[29:00] Teaching your kids how to have a healthy relationship with technology is all about intentionality. You have to set an example for your kids through your own technology use.

[35:30] If you don’t engage with your kids, especially young kids, you encourage bad behavior. They will start to act out to get your attention.

[39:11] What do you do to settle and be more intentional? As men, many of us carry a lot of pressure with us as we try to tackle everything at once. We want to hear from you!

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Adapting to change is a crucial skill for business owners. At Fluent Conveyors, Jeremy and Doug adapt to change quickly, whether that change is in their clients or in the adoption of new technology. In their personal lives, change is about both adapting to the unexpected and being able to accept when they are wrong. To foster positive change in yourself, they recommend surrounding yourself with people who push you to be the best version of yourself. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[2:15] Today’s episode is about starting over, and how starting over takes courage. On the business side, Jeremy embraces change at work and always looks for ways to move forward.

[8:00] Doug brings up how starting over also related to automation and technology. While the processes your company has in place may feel comfortable, staying ahead of the curve should come first.

[12:03] Jeff Bezos famously said that while his company has expanded to be one of the largest in the world, the time it takes him to make decisions is the same as it was when Amazon was a bookstore. 

[14:55] When Jeremy graduated college, he felt the transition from college to adulthood very deeply. 

[16:31] Doug feels that he bit off more than he could chew early on, getting married and having kids in quick succession. The recession coincided with these life events, and Doug had to learn to adapt quickly. 

[19:20] A big part of adapting to change in your personal life is accepting when you’re wrong, particularly in marriage. You have to be willing to let go of your old habits and ideas if they aren’t serving you.

[24:49] Your friends can also impact the changes you make. Choosing friends who push you forward instead of holding you back can make it easier to become a better person.

[28:27] It is important to lean on the people around you during periods of change. Everyone has faced adversity, so everyone has something to offer to help get you through it. 

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Jeremy and Doug begin by discussing how overworking themselves can actually make them less present during work. They move onto how they have created space for their families outside of work by learning to unplug. Finally, they discuss how they take time for themselves to recharge.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[5:50] Jeremy struggles to stay off of work outside of work hours, which creates extra pressure that makes it difficult to be there for his team.

[9:07] Doug has learned to let things go when they are not urgent. He has become more focused on the tasks that matter, allowing him to respond more strategically.

[12:23] In college football, Doug and Jeremy learned to play through injury. This mentality has followed them into their careers. 

[15:57] Doug has improved at letting work stop at work, and has learned to unplug at home. He has learned to ask himself if his work can wait.

[18:45] Burnout can also occur within the family. Jeremy points out that it is equally important to be able to take time for yourself, and to tell your family when you need that time. 

[21:15] Doug’s work environment has also improved since his previous job, and he has found that having a better work environment has also helped him reduce burnout. 

[26:29] You can’t be everything to everyone at all times. You have to focus your attention intentionally throughout your day to be at your best at work, at home, and with yourself. 

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Jeremy and Doug begin by discussing their work, and how it often keeps them from having time to themselves. They discuss some of the boundaries that they have set to make time for solitude, and the areas they still have for improvement. They also explore how solitude (or lack thereof) has affected their relationships with their wives and children.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[4:30] This show is going to evolve – Jeremy is interested in bringing on guests from all walks of life to explore different topics and experiences.

[5:44] Today’s episode is about solitude, which can be extremely powerful. In the business sector, things are often high-energy, but it is important to schedule in time to think.

[7:49] One area where Doug has improved at taking time for solitude is turning off his email notifications from 5 PM to 6 AM, which allows him to be more connected with himself and his family.

[14:36] Jeremy and Doug do not have a great work-life balance as they still feel that much of the work falls on them. They see this as a growing pain in their company.

[19:24] Doug has improved at finding solitude, but he still puts others before himself. This is something that Jeremy struggles with too. Doug wants to be there for his loved ones, and this sometimes comes at the expense of his own needs.

[22:40] The age of your children can also play a role in how much solitude you can realistically get. When your kids are young and very dependent on you, it is much harder to take time for yourself.

[27:24] Jeremy went through a period where his work consumed him, and it was a very dark time for him. By learning to take time for himself, he has improved his relationships and mental health.

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Doug and Jeremy both grew up in small towns that gave them limited cultural awareness. When they went to college, they began to interact with people from very different cultural backgrounds than their own. They have since learned from their company and their travels.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:30] Today’s episode is about cultural intelligence, which is very relevant in today’s world an can be a blind spot for those of us who grew up in smaller towns. Jeremy and Doug gained most of their cultural intelligence in college as they met new people and gained awareness. 

[8:11] The talent that Fluent Conveyors sees and aligns itself with culturally is more global and culturally diverse than ever. That may be intimidating for a lot of organizations that want to create a homogenous environment. 

[10:17] Jeremy wants to start building cultural differences into the Fluent Conveyor’s company values. While efficiency and high quality are still prioritized, there are other values that the team should take into account to fully represent its teams.

[12:55] One example of how Jeremy has had to gain cultural intelligence is when people ask for days off for cultural reasons that he is not familiar with. He has had to learn how to trust his team to make the right decisions and make up for any time they take off. 

[15:23] Cultural intelligence is also at play in families and relationships. Jeremy’s wife has traveled all over the world and brought Jeremy on international trips as well. He has taught cultural intelligence to his children by showing them different foods and traveling with them. 

[18:03] After Doug’s father moved for work at the height of his career, he introduced Doug to some of the new cultures he interacted with. Doug also learned from his wife, who was also more well-traveled than him. 

[20:00] Many Americans learn about other cultures through how American media represents them, which often does not paint an accurate or complete picture.

[22:57] The best thing you can give your kids is travel. It allows them to experience a world outside of their own, which helps contribute to their cultural intelligence and empathy.

[26:55] Cultural intelligence is also about self-awareness in that it requires you to understand that you don’t know everything. Team members with different cultural experiences will be able to catch blind spots that you will miss.

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[3:28] Today’s episode is about the art of saying no – something that Doug struggles with. Learning how to say no can enhance your life by helping you choose where you spend your time so you can be fully present at work, at home, and with yourself. 

[6:30] When Doug began working with Jeremy, he was doing work that fell outside of his role because he believed he had to. He has since learned that saying no requires maturity, and he has gained a familiarity with his work that has allowed him to understand his limitations. 

[9:11] Doug knows that he is a people pleaser. He finds it difficult to say no to people because he does not want to let them down. He has improved at this recently, but there is still room for more growth. 

[15:22] Jeremy has built the art of saying no into the culture at Fluent Conveyors, particularly as it applies to clients who are not a good fit. 

[22:10] When something is on your mind, it can be tempting to work on it before you forget. Jeremy sometimes texts and emails people at odd hours, and he is encouraging his team to set their own boundaries with him.

[24:45] Jeremy is also setting boundaries at home with his family, and his wife is setting boundaries with him. This helps him make time for himself and be fully present when he is with his family. 

[30:34] Doug and Jeremy discuss a recent time when Doug was sick and put pressure on himself to continue working. Jeremy encouraged him to take time for himself. 

[34:31] Doug’s wife has a useful saying that you can put in your tool bag: “I can’t commit to that right now.” It isn’t an outright no, but it allows you the space to say no if you are too busy to commit with certainty.

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The culture at Fluent Conveyors is driven by curiosity, with leadership being open to ideas from their team and constantly looking for opportunities to brainstorm. This curiosity doesn’t have a 100% success rate, but it does allow Jeremy and Doug to stay ahead of the curve of innovation. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:40] Today’s episode is about curiosity and remaining curious to foster personal growth. 

[6:31] Jeremy describes himself as curious to a fault – he is always looking to understand how things work and make positive change. Curiosity fosters an innovative culture at Fluent Conveyors.

[10:24] Doug explains that he and Jeremy are always brainstorming and trying to think of ways to improve. They are comfortable acknowledging their own blind spots and take perspectives from their entire team.

[15:08] Jeremy and Doug discuss the wonder that they used to feel as children and where they experienced the most curiosity and freedom. They both felt a special connection to nature growing up.

[17:41] In our adulthood, we can all benefit from finding new ways to experience curiosity. Jeremy and Doug both try to put themselves in situations outside of their comfort zones.

[25:30] You can’t take the money to the grave. Life is about enjoying the time that you have – you can’t spend your life worried about security; you have to make time for new experiences to get the most out of it.

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Doug and Jeremy begin the episode by discussing what vulnerability means to them and how they practice it in their everyday lives. They compare their upbringing – Doug grew up with emotionally open parents, whereas Jeremy grew up in a judgmental household. Both are learning how to become more vulnerable in their relationships, particularly with the help of their wives.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:20] What is vulnerability? For Doug, being vulnerable is about being open to constructive criticism. Jeremy believes that there is strength in vulnerability, and that vulnerable people form better relationships. 

[5:46] Honesty is also an important component of vulnerability and relationship building. He recognizes that there is a line for honesty, particularly in professional settings. 

[9:44] Transparency is freeing. Jeremy notes that he likes to work through things himself before sharing them with people, but he is comfortable going back to parts of his past that he has worked through.

[11:46] Doug struggles to ask for help. He is working to be better at delegating when he needs to and not trying to handle everything on his own. 

[15:48] Doug recounts an experience where he handled a situation in a vulnerable way in a leadership role, and it did not work well. That experience left an impression on him in how he handles confrontation.

[21:15] Doug’s parents were very open and emotional with him and his brother. He believes that this has helped him be more open and emotional with his children.

[26:21] Jeremy grew up in a judgmental home, and he has had to learn how to become less judgmental. Letting go of his judgement has allowed him to grow and strengthen his relationships in his family. 

[32:33] Doug’s wife has pushed him to be a better communicator and to have more compassion for himself and others. Jeremy says that his wife inspires him to be more empathetic as well.

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Jeremy and Doug discuss change and adaptation at work and at home. At work, Jeremy is a leader who allows for adaptation in his organization – in fact, he is constantly pushing change. He also encourages his teams to present changes and strategies whenever they see room to improve. Jeremy and Doug also discuss making personal changes to be better husbands, better fathers, and better versions of themselves.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[2:55] Adaptation is difficult because it’s easy to get comfortable. Success requires you to be light on your toes. Doug explains that Jeremy challenges people, and he fosters growth in others because of this. 

[8:26] Organizationally, Fluent Conveyors is a healthy environment for adaptation and growth. It is not an organization that adheres to strict hierarchies or tells people to stay in their own lane.

[13:32] Embracing change is not only a work challenge – it is also a challenge in our personal lives. Jeremy has learned to embrace change in his family to become more present outside of work. Doug explains how he needs to step up to plan more time with his wife and his family.  

[18:18] When you try to get a positive change over generations, you have to relearn your self-image and how to be in relationships. Changing your beliefs and habits is difficult, especially when they have been reenforced through your childhood. 

[25:23] Doug and Jeremy are solutions-oriented, which helps them quickly adapt to change. They are constantly pushing adaptations and changes to help their teams stay ahead of the curve. 

[28:06] One of Jeremy’s strengths as a leader is his willingness to allow his team members to present ideas and strategies to improve his organization. He challenges his colleagues to be forward thinking. 

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Doug and Jeremy are both productive and dedicated to their work, and they have had to learn how to better balance their work with their personal lives. Some of this balance comes from practicing mindfulness and learning how to work mindfulness into their everyday lives.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[2:11] Jeremy is working to become more mindful around his family and in general, but it does not come naturally to him. He has to think consciously about how to be there for his family. 

[6:09] How do you become more mindful as a business? Jeremy sees the need for a balance between having a mindful perspective and moving quickly as a business. 

[12:08] You have to be mindful and productive together instead of focusing on just mindfulness or productivity. Even though you may feel like you are moving slower, this approach will get you farther. 

[17:29] What does productivity look like in your family? It can look like working on yourself, for example Jeremy is working through a list of mindfulness goals that will benefit him at work and in his personal life.

[19:00] When you’re managing a business, there’s a balance between the sacrifices that you have to make for your business and being mindful in your life. Doug sees this balance at play for himself and Jeremy.

[23:07] Instead of being 100% at work and only 30% with his family, Jeremy is trying to balance his productivity more between his work and his family life. Doug explains the value of the memories he’s made with his family by finding a better balance. 

[27:34] Balancing your energy takes focus. Most people put their energy where it’s easy, and it takes a conscious effort to balance your family, friends, and work more intentionally. 

[31:03] Doug has struggled to allocate his energy intentionally. He finds it difficult to stop working once his workday is over, and he is working to set up clearer guardrails between his work and family life. 

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Doug and Jeremy learned much of their resilience and competitiveness through sports. Resilience is relevant to every aspect of their lives – their careers, their relationships, and their personal growth. While many see resilience as a stubborn trait, Jeremy and Doug have learned how to build strength through their relationships; including through compromise and accountability. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[1:51] Jeremy and Doug talk about their families and their plans for the holiday season. Doug explains that he is setting new traditions with his loved ones. 

[3:45] How do you build resilience? For Doug, you build resilience by learning how to move through difficult times. Jeremy believes that his resilience comes from his integrity and competitive nature.

[8:24] Doug recounts a time when he had to push through the end of a bout with COVID to present an important proposal. He recognizes the value in what he did, but he has also learned how to create new boundaries around work. 

[11:28] Jeremy has learned that it’s ok to lose, and that resilience is about carrying on after a failure. He also strives to teach resilience to his children. 

[15:11] Losing can become a part of your culture. It is important to continue your work after your failures, and to remember your failures and learn from them.

[17:54] Doug works hard to be a listener in his family, even on days when he comes home completely depleted of energy. Jeremy believes in admitting when he makes mistakes to his family while teaching them about personal responsibility. 

[21:30] Doug’s father used to ask him is he understood why he was being disciplined when he did something wrong to make sure he knew what he did wrong. Doug has replicated this with his own family.

[24:06] Doug is working to support his wife in more ways than just bringing in a paycheck – including by getting groceries and doing laundry more often. Jeremy is finding new ways to honor his family in his own life.

[29:52] Jeremy used to have a “my way or the highway” mentality that held him back in his family. His wife has helped him develop stronger emotional intelligence and appreciate the little things in life. 

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Beginning by discussing gratitude, Jeremy and Doug explain that they were not always the best at remembering to show appreciation. In their work and in their families, they have both learned to express gratitude consistently and sincerely. Similarly, finding contentment did not come naturally to Jeremy and Doug. Both had busy childhoods and had to work hard for everything that they have, and because of this they feel that they have to keep moving. Doug explains that contentment is all about slowing down to appreciate the things that you have – whether it is going on a road trip, spending time with your family, or just giving yourself a quick break.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[1:51] Jeremy and Doug talk about their busy weeks ahead. The hustle and bustle of their day-to-day lives makes it difficult to slow down and practice gratitude. 

[4:20] Showing appreciation is important, even if it is sometimes lost in digital formats. Slowing down to appreciate the people around you can make a significant difference in your relationships.

[7:55] It is also important to slow down and take ownership and accountability instead of just moving on to the next thing.

[10:40] What is contentment? Doug says that it is about having time to appreciate the things you have – he takes time for this on road trips. 

[12:58] Jeremy had trouble slowing down to find real contentment. He found that his constant work ethic and drive caused tension and disconnect in his family.

[15:27] Jeremy strives for something he calls “successful contentment.” This has to do with taking time to recognize your achievements and appreciate the work that contributed to them.

[18:37] Jeremy is learning how to give unconditionally instead of expecting reciprocity. Doug’s father used to challenge him to name good things that he did for others, and Doug does the same with his kids.

[22:01] Doug knows that one day he will need help from his loved ones. When he reaches that point, he does not want the people around him to think he never did anything for them.

[26:21] Sometimes Jeremy is too busy to express his gratitude. He is working to find time to express gratitude sincerely and give credit to his teammates. 

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Doug and Jeremy both recount experiences that helped them learn how to show up for their families, both times where they succeeded and times where they faltered. They explain how their upbringings and societal pressures influenced their early outlook on their relationships, and how they broke out of that outlook. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[1:18] Doug and Jeremy discuss the post-election environment and how no matter who is president, we all still have to roll up our sleeves and go to work the next day. They also discuss the importance of understanding everyone’s perspectives. 

[3:59] Jeremy notes that sometimes we lose track of our importance to other people. He explains a recent experience where a friend went through a difficult breakup and he showed up for that friend. The interaction was not a big deal to Jeremy, but it meant a lot to his friend. 

[6:44] Doug brings up the importance of asking for help and being able to lean on each other. We need to learn how to respond to people in an empathetic way and how to receive help when we need it.

[8:56] Doug talks about a recent time where he helped his daughter with a language arts paper. His daughter is dyslexic and struggles with writing, so Doug’s help was extremely important to her. 

[11:58] Jeremy and Doug discuss understanding and what helped them become more understanding people. For Jeremy, his wife taught him how to be more vulnerable and grow. 

[14:44] Jeremy was taught not to ask for help and feel his emotions. He initially had difficulty showing up emotionally for his wife in his marriage, but he realized with time that the only way to learn to be there for her was to start showing up in small moments. He seeks to understand her emotions to show up for her. 

[17:14] Doug gained an understanding of how he thinks through his priorities, and learned to put himself second and the needs of his loved ones first. He recounts his wife’s experience going into labor just as Doug was about to leave for a bachelor party. 

[20:41] Doug recognizes that there were many times where he did not listen to his kids and give them the guidance they needed. He has had to learn how to stop and live in the moment. 

[23:58] Even now, Jeremy sometimes struggles to live in other people’s moments and listen actively. He fins that his mind always wants to race to the next thought, so he has to be intentional. 

[26:24] Not everyone wants a solution. Lots of men instinctually want to fix things, when what the people around them are often looking for is just someone to listen and empathize. 

[32:33] Jeremy also notes the utility of saying no to a conversation until you are ready to meaningfully participate – simply telling someone that you are busy and asking to call them back at a time when you can really listen is a powerful tool.

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Doug and Jeremy are both hard workers who believe in putting their families first. They have had to learn when to pull themselves away from work to spend time with their loved ones and set good examples for their children. Additionally, Doug and Jeremy are working to stay accountable to themselves and fulfill their own needs.

To have integrity, we must fulfill our promises. Sometimes, balancing this value with the importance of our own needs requires us to decline certain commitments. Gain valuable insights on how to determine what to commit to, how to turn commitments down, and how to find your core values in this conversation. 

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[2:52] The amount of obligations that Jeremy and Doug have to complete can be overwhelming. Doug notes that his work relies on building a layer of trust with his team and clients. That trust is built by consistently getting things done on time. 

[4:39] Jeremy notes that Doug and himself also have obligations to themselves, which they can have more difficulty meeting. In many ways, being accountable to yourself is harder than being accountable to your work and loved ones.

[7:02] Jeremy and Doug are still growing and learning how to set boundaries in their work and personal lives. They live in the heat of the moment and often forget to take breaks. 

[9:31] Doug notes that his work obligations can pull his focus not just from his own needs, but from the needs of his family as well. He has learned how to refocus through his personal growth.  

[13:09] Do values change with age? Jeremy believes that his values have changed with maturity, particularly his awareness of his own values. Doug has also become more aware of his values with age. 

[14:57] Integrity and authenticity are core values for Jeremy. He does not align with people who do not present themselves honestly, and he is authentic in how he shows up for his family. 

[17:13] Doug has always had a strong connection with his wife, but she has also challenged him. He has learned from her throughout their relationship.

[20:13] Being committed around your core values is also a positive influence on your family. It teaches your loved ones how to be true to themselves and learn discipline. 

[21:07] Doug is trying to be a good example for his children; teaching them to be trustworthy, accountable, and honest. He understands that he is a role model, but also recognizes the impact of the people he surrounds himself with. 

[23:25] To Jeremy, commitment is about taking ownership of your responsibilities and not making excuses. He has had to learn to abandon excuses and take ownership of his mistakes. 

[25:13] Integrity is also a core value to Jeremy. When he does not complete his commitments and makes excuses, he is not aligning with this value. He is often his harshest critic. 

[27:18] Sometimes, the best answer is “no.” Making commitments in alignment with your core values instead of constantly people pleasing will leave you in a better place to fulfill the commitments you do make. 

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As providers, men are taught that their role is to support other people. Jeremy and Doug are hard workers, but this work ethic can sometimes leave them without any energy to show up for themselves and their loved ones. Jeremy and Doug’s families noticed their difficulty in this area and pointed it out to them, and both of them are working to improve. 

Learn why putting yourself first will help you show up authentically at work and at home, and find the tools you need to practice self-care and self-reflection. You can’t provide for others if you aren’t providing for yourself. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[4:47] Men are typically taught to provide and put work first in our society. This often leaves us lacking in our personal lives. Doug believes that this mentality is a combination of instinct and societal expectations. 

[7:03] Jeremy describes this as “the provider side.” He is learning that failure is a part of life, and accepting it allows us to build space for a life that we truly want. 

[10:01] The desire to improve and win motivates Jeremy and Doug to work persistently toward success. Jeremy’s family has a running joke – “two more deals” – based off of Jeremy’s once constant focus on work. He has since learned to have a better work-life balance and show up for his family. 

[15:00] Doug is going on vacation for the first time a long time. His wife told him that he has not taken time for himself. The vacation is a way for him to disconnect from work and show up for himself.

[18:34] Jeremy is taking his kids to the mountains to spend quality time with them. He thinks that taking space from the constant flow of emails will help him show up more authentically at home and when he comes back to work. 

[22:39] Taking care of yourself has to come first. Jeremy and Doug struggle with putting themselves first and are learning how to better show up for themselves. Self-reflection is helping them make sure their needs are met. 

[24:54] Doug gets a lot of his fulfillment from others. This can be an obstacle to him making sure his own needs are met.

[27:31] Doug also recognizes that he is a people pleaser, especially following a conversation with his father who pointed out this tendency. Jeremy says that it is not possible to realistically please everyone. He says that while he does not want to “reverse,” there has to be room to “slow down” and “brake.”

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Healthy competition is key to the culture at Fluent Conveyors. It allows team members to stay motivated and maintain high performance. Despite being a competitive environment, Fluent Conveyors is not cutthroat – it is also a congratulatory and motivational environment where team members know that their coworkers want them to succeed. 

Moving from competition to personal growth, Jeremy notes how his hardworking nature sometimes put him at odds with his obligations toward his family. He had to shift his perspective and recognize those obligations as just as important as providing for his family. Doug also had to make a shift to keep his promises to his wife and children. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[3:06] What does a competitive environment mean to you? Doug says that he found his competitive edge in high school as he began playing football. It was a competitive environment because he knew that there were people on the sidelines who wanted to take his place.

[5:22] Reaching your goals starts with “winning the day,” or performing at your best every day to make progress over time. At fluent conveyors, the environment promotes motivation and competition.

[7:14] Jeremy believes that his childhood and his inherent nature give him a competitive spirit. He performs well in competitive environments and has learned how to get an edge over his competitors.

[9:11] Jeremy also found his competitive edge through sports. Because he was physically smaller than some of his teammates, he had to prove himself to keep playing.

[13:09] Doug also learned how to recognize his shortcomings and failures to plan for them in the future because of sports, allowing him to improve as he moved into high school.

[15:10] Jeremy recognizes that his competitiveness can also go too far at times. He has learned to keep promises to himself and his family to make sure he is fulfilling his obligations to the people around him.

[18:30] Jeremy has also learned to deliver on his promises. He noticed himself making empty promises as his family had when he was growing up and reflected so he could break that cycle.

[22:51] Similarly, Doug cares deeply about fulfilling the promises that he makes to his wife and children. He does not want his kids to look back and think of him as someone thye could not rely on.

[27:22] Using your mistakes to improve can help stop you from doubting yourself in the future. It also helps you model strength and resilience for others. 

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At work, accountability can help foster an ecosystem where teammates trust each other to fulfill their obligations. Leadership becomes more trustworthy if they can maintain a record of accountability because their teammates know that they understand and would be able to complete the tasks that they are delegating. 

In their personal lives, accountability has played a significant role in self-growth for Jeremy and Doug. Both began their marriages with a somewhat traditional outlook on their role in the household and a “what I say goes” mentality. After they found their lives wouldn’t always bend to fit this ideal, they had to look inward and learn to take criticism. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[3:49] Jeremy and Doug discuss the value of accountability to their families. Being accountable to others is extremely important to personal growth. 

[5:09] In his work life, Doug says that accountability is crucial. Procrastination leads to obligations not being fulfilled and promises being broken. Other teammates rely on you to hold yourself to this standard. 

[7:08] If you cannot fill an obligation, naming that and explaining why is crucial so that your team can respond. A culture of accountability creates a positive environment where people trust each other. 

[9:42] Jeremy is in a man’s group that is practicing something called “extreme accountability.” This means that taking accountability does not mean that you aren’t allowed to fail. In fact, owning your failures is a key part of building trust. 

[13:20] In the workplace, extreme accountability creates an ecosystem of loyalty and trust. Knowing that leaders are responsible to their own obligations helps team members feel empowered to stay on top of their work.