In this episode of "Never in Reverse Podcast," host Jeremy Axel interviews business consultant Adi Klevit about the realities of consulting, process documentation, and business scalability.Â
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.Â
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 ConsultingÂ
Opening question about common reasons consulting engagements fail.
(00:00:02) Importance of Fit and CommitmentÂ
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 EpisodeÂ
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 OriginsÂ
Eddie describes her background and why she started her consulting company.
(00:02:24) Rethinking Consulting for Modern BusinessÂ
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 SuccessÂ
Importance of consulting with all stakeholders to define ROI and ensure buy-in.
(00:07:30) Collaboration vs. Surface-Level AdviceÂ
Distinguishing effective consulting from superficial advice; emphasizing partnership and collaboration.
(00:08:06) Defining the Consulting PartnershipÂ
Adi Klevit's approach: co-defining goals, ensuring mutual participation, and the necessity of client engagement.
(00:09:17) Collaboration vs. CorrectionÂ
Why collaboration is essential for change management and process adoption.
(00:09:54) The Importance of “Why” in Process DocumentationÂ
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 ImplementationÂ
How Adi Klevit approaches scaling systems and processes after initial buy-in and roadmap creation.
(00:12:52) Maintaining and Updating ProcessesÂ
The importance of ongoing maintenance, process champions, and keeping documentation current.
(00:13:33) Overcoming Legacy Thinking and BurnoutÂ
Challenges of changing long-standing habits and addressing employee burnout due to poor processes.
(00:15:28) Celebrating Client Success StoriesÂ
Adi Klevit shares the satisfaction of seeing clients succeed after implementing new systems.
(00:16:06) Consulting as Leadership and GrowthÂ
How effective consulting empowers leadership and enables business growth.
(00:18:17) Returning Clients and Ongoing RelationshipsÂ
Adi Klevit discusses the frequency of repeat business and long-term client relationships.
(00:18:22) Balancing Strategy and ExecutionÂ
How Adi Klevit balances strategic planning with hands-on execution in diverse teams.
(00:19:25) Keys to Successful Consulting EngagementsÂ
Advice for clients: alignment, commitment, open communication, and defining expectations.
(00:20:28) The Role of AI in ConsultingÂ
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 ConsultantsÂ
Eddie’s tips: find your niche, get results, collect testimonials, and build credibility.
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In episode 39 of the "Never in Reverse" podcast, hosts Jeremy Axel and Doug Cox break down the truth about hiring your first employee and why it’s not always the success milestone people think it is.
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)Â 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) IntroductionÂ
(00:01:23) The Excitement and Fallacy of the First HireÂ
Exploring the emotional high and unrealistic expectations entrepreneurs have when making their first hire.
(00:02:23) Delegation and Lack of StructureÂ
Challenges of delegating responsibilities without clear structure or expectations for the new hire.
(00:03:04) Personal Experiences with First HiresÂ
Hosts share their own stories about hiring too early and the lack of preparation and clarity.
(00:05:09) The Importance of Setting ExpectationsÂ
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 EarlyÂ
Examining the dangers of premature hiring, including ego, onboarding costs, and lack of readiness.
(00:09:22) Delegation, Trust, and MaturityÂ
The need for maturity, trust, and proper delegation as the business grows beyond startup mode.
(00:10:50) Goal Setting and AlignmentÂ
Importance of having clear short- and long-term goals and ensuring new hires align with them.
(00:12:32) Firing Fast and Avoiding Dead WeightÂ
Learning to let go of underperforming employees quickly to maintain a healthy company culture.
(00:13:55) Loyalty, Friendship, and Business BoundariesÂ
Navigating the complexities of hiring friends, maintaining boundaries, and separating business from personal relationships.
(00:16:07) Hiring Friends and Family: Pitfalls and GrowthÂ
Reflecting on the challenges and necessary maturity when hiring friends or family members.
(00:19:12) The Resume vs. RealityÂ
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 FiringÂ
Sharing experiences with bad hires, the importance of reviews, and the difficulty of firing employees.
(00:23:33) Growth Stages and Team EvolutionÂ
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 AspirationsÂ
Encouraging honest conversations about whether the company is the right vehicle for employees’ personal goals.
(00:27:42) Letting Go and Maintaining CultureÂ
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 ChangesÂ
The value of feedback from employees and making necessary changes to support collective growth.
(00:30:02) Final Thoughts and Practical Hiring TipsÂ
Concluding advice: treat the first hire as a gamble, be strategic, check references, and consider trial periods.
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In this insightful episode of Never in Reverse Podcast, host Jeremy Axel sits down with Joe Dillon, a divorce mediation pioneer and co-founder of Equitable Mediation Services, to challenge the biggest misconception about divorce.
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
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Instagram: Â / equitablemediationÂ
Facebook: Â
In this episode of Never in Reverse, hosts Jeremy Axel and Doug Cox explore the real-world challenges and breakthroughs shaping today’s supply chains. From the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to the ripple effects of global tariff wars, they share how businesses can stay agile and thrive through uncertainty.
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 LessonsÂ
Hosts share personal stories from COVID-19, highlighting vulnerabilities like single-source dependencies and lack of diversification
(00:03:55)Â Impact of Tariff Wars and Ongoing Supply Chain StrugglesÂ
Discussion of recent tariff wars, ongoing supply chain pressures, and the importance of supplier diversification.
(00:06:43) Risks of Single-Source and Specialized VendorsÂ
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 ChainsÂ
How historical data and automation can improve purchasing decisions, planning, and vendor communication.
(00:10:13) Proactive Vendor Communication and PlanningÂ
Emphasizing the need for proactive engagement with suppliers and learning from past disruptions.
(00:10:36) Vendor Relationships and the Importance of DiversificationÂ
The value of strong vendor relationships, diversification, and learning from chip shortages in automotive supply chains.
(00:12:34) Automating and Structuring Supply Chain DataÂ
Benefits of automating data, creating unified systems, and supporting both urgent and planned customer needs.
(00:15:38) Understanding Vendor Vulnerabilities and Customer ImpactÂ
Encouraging open conversations with vendors about their constraints to better serve customers and avoid losing business.
(00:16:43) Site Visits and Vendor ValidationÂ
The importance of on-site vendor visits, looking beyond marketing, and validating capabilities before committing.
(00:19:24) Building Trust and Avoiding Marketing TrapsÂ
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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In episode 37 of "Never in Reverse Podcast," hosts Jeremy Axel and Douglas Cox explore the challenges founders face with delegation. They discuss how holding on to control leads to burnout, bottlenecks, and stunted growth. Through personal stories and practical advice, they emphasize the importance of trusting the right team, setting clear processes, and allowing room for mistakes.
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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In Episode 36 of "Never In Reverse Podcast," host Jeremy Axel and co-host Douglas Cox discuss how sales teams can adapt and succeed during economic downturns. They share strategies for maintaining deal flow, morale, and credibility, emphasizing the importance of honesty, vulnerability, and saying "no" to clients who are not a good fit.Â
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 OverviewÂ
(00:01:05) Sales Vulnerability and HonestyÂ
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 RelationshipsÂ
How personal brand and reputation are shaped by honesty and long-term relationship building in sales.
(00:07:34) People Before Profit PhilosophyÂ
Advocating for prioritizing relationships over commissions for sustainable sales success.
(00:08:10) Building Deeper Customer ConnectionsÂ
The value of trust, problem-solving, and personal connection in modern sales environments.
(00:09:10) Standing Up to Unethical Sales PressureÂ
Stories about resisting leadership pressure to close bad deals and maintaining personal ethics.
(00:12:02) Pre-Qualifying Questions and TransparencyÂ
Using budget, timeline, and decision-maker questions to pre-qualify leads and ensure transparency.
(00:14:20) Wasted Time on Poor-Fit LeadsÂ
Statistics and anecdotes about the high percentage of time wasted on leads that don’t fit.
(00:15:52) Revenue-Generating Activities and Time ManagementÂ
Advice on calculating your worth, focusing on revenue-generating activities, and aligning time with goals.
(00:20:20) Grit vs. Natural Talent in SalesÂ
Comparing the value of grit and adaptability versus natural charisma in sales performance.
(00:23:35) Learning from Top PerformersÂ
Encouraging learning from successful peers, mentors, and always adding new skills to your sales toolkit.
(00:28:10) Continuous Improvement and Industry LearningÂ
The importance of ongoing learning from others’ experiences and adapting through market changes.
(00:28:36) Recap and Final AdviceÂ
Summary of key points: honor your time, be diligent, adapt, and focus on relationships over transactions.
(00:29:21) Belief in Product and Career AlignmentÂ
Stressing the need to believe in what you sell and aligning your career with your values.
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In episode 35 of the Never Reverse Podcast, hosts Jeremy Axel and Douglas Cox dive deep into the real-world impact of process improvement, automation, and operational efficiency in modern organizations. Discover why some leaders resist change, often driven by fear, ego, or insecurity, and how this resistance can stall growth, fracture team morale, and cost companies thousands every month.Â
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.Â
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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In this episode of Never in Reverse Podcast, Jeremy Axel and Doug Cox dismantle the myth of overnight business success and reveal what really happens behind the highlight reel. Discover why the real journey to success is shaped by the ongoing battle of luck vs. grind, and why those instant wins you see in the media are rarely the whole story.Â
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.
What if the biggest obstacle in your business isn’t the market, the competition, or even your resources but your own ego? In this episode of Never In Reverse, we dig into how unchecked pride and bad habits can quietly sabotage a team, a vision, and even an entire company. From shady influences to leadership blind spots, we pull back the curtain on the hidden dangers that can bring down even the strongest business if left unaddressed.
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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Our scars from childhood can follow us long into our adulthoods, and they often manifest in ways we may not realize or fully understand. In this episode of Never in Reverse, Doug and Jeremy discuss their childhoods as children of divorce, and the fear of abandonment that resulted from their childhood struggles. This insightful conversation focuses on emotional growth, security, and healing.Â
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.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[25:55] Doug and Jeremy sometimes still have unrealistic expectations of their parents, specifically their mothers, stemming from their childhoods.Â
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How has dating changed in the last ten years? And what are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in dating that have shaped how you view relationships today? In today’s episode, Doug and Jeremy discuss dating and relationships, from their journeys with dating and relationships to the current dating scene. Whether you’re looking for love or settled into a relationship, this episode gives valuable insights to help you build and maintain healthy relationships.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[28:56] Society expects men to keep their personal lives private, which can make it very difficult to open up with someone new.Â
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How do people end up overqualified and underpaid for their work? And what counts as exploitation? Lots of people think that they deserve jobs because of a prestigious degree, but companies are increasingly putting experience first. In today’s episode of Never in Reverse, Doug and Jeremy discuss qualifications, compensation, and exploitation. Learn how to set yourself up for success by putting experience and hands-on skills first.
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.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[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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What did your kids learn today? In today’s episode of Never in Reverse, Doug and Jeremy discuss their experiences with public education. The cohosts are both fathers of children in schools – Doug’s children attend public school while Jeremy’s attend a private preschool, but previously attended a public program. Learn how public education is shifting to accommodate new technology, new curriculum, and new ideas – for better or for worse.Â
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.Â
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.Â
[7:00] Doug has seen changes both in curriculum and in the technology his children use at school.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
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Do you have a purpose? You probably have something that drives you to get out of the bed every morning, whether or not you consciously understand what it is. However, while you have motivation, you may not have found the right purpose to drive you yet. In today’s episode, Jeremy and Doug discuss finding a purpose, the difference between purposes and passions, and how to redefine success.Â
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.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[25:08] One way to build a culture of purpose is to recognize the people around you for their achievements.Â
[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.Â
[33:50] Success is not just financial. If you only have financial success, you will be left feeling isolated.
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Who were your role models growing up, and who are they now? Many of us grow up looking up to famous people like our favorite athletes, but the types of role models we have change as we mature. You probably have role models in your life now, whether you consciously think of them as role models or not. In this episode, Jeremy and Doug discuss unconventional role models who helped them grow as men and fathers, and how you can find unconventional role models in your life.Â
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.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[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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How do you use music? You might just listen to music in your car on your drive to work or over the speakers in the stores you visit, but even these instances of music are more powerful than you may realize. Music has deep psychological capabilities, and the way you absorb it can have profound effects on your mood and productivity. In this episode, Jeremy and Doug discuss music and productivity, and give you tips on how to use music to work more efficiently.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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. Â
[19:30] Jeremy cannot listen to very energetic music while he is working, and prefers to work to quiet music to avoid distraction.Â
[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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We all use ChatGPT to send a carefully-worded email from time to time, but is your business adopting AI? More importantly, is it doing so responsibly? Today’s episode of Never in Reverse is all about AI and other technological change, with a focus on the ethics of AI and data privacy. As the technological landscape changes, businesses must responsibly and intentionally adopt new technology or be left behind.Â
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.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[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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What makes a meaningful business relationship for you? In today’s episode, Doug and Jeremy discuss the importance of networking, from finding mentors to learn from to mentoring others. They reflect on the people they have learned from and give their strategies to build strategic and meaningful connections with other professionals.Â
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.Â
[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.Â
[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.Â
[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. Â
[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.Â
[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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