Never in Reverse

Jeremy Axel & Doug Cox

You have the power to change your life and Never In Reverse Podcast is here to show you how. Hosted by Jeremy Axel and Co-host Doug Cox, this fast-growing global podcast is changing millions of lives. In every episode, we share hard-earned wisdom, deeply personal stories, and actionable insights to help you transform your life. If you're a new listener, you're in the right place! Each episode is designed to empower you, guiding you one step closer to the life you want. Want more? Follow us at @neverinreverse for updates. What to Expect Each Week: - Engaging conversations with thought leaders and trailblazers - Insights into personal and professional growth - Practical strategies for overcoming life's challenges - A few laughs along the way! Whether you're commuting, working out, or simply unwinding at home, Never in Reverse is your companion for inspiration. Join us, subscribe, and set out on an exciting journey forward!🤝

  1. 3D AGO

    The Mediocrity Tax: Why Average Performance Is Killing Businesses | EP 046

    In episode 046 of the Never in Reverse Podcast, host Jeremy Axel and Co-Host Douglas Cox discuss the challenges of managing workplace performance and the hidden costs of tolerating mediocrity. They explore why busyness can mask underperformance, the importance of setting clear standards, and the impact of the “mediocre tax” on team culture and innovation.  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 CONNECT WITH US: ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/ ► X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/neverinreverse ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse ► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1 ► Website: https://neverinreverse.com/

    22 min
  2. The Executive Burnout Breakthrough: When "Success" Feels Like Failure | Jennifer Carter

    MAR 4

    The Executive Burnout Breakthrough: When "Success" Feels Like Failure | Jennifer Carter

    In this episode of Never In Reverse Podcast, Jennifer Carter, executive coach and founder of the Flashlight Thinking Framework, shares honest insights from her corporate leadership journey. 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: ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/ ► X: https://x.com/neverinreverse ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse ► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1 ► website: https://neverinreverse.com/

    28 min
  3. Crafting a Life Story That Make Sense Again | Bill Blankschaen

    FEB 25

    Crafting a Life Story That Make Sense Again | Bill Blankschaen

    Most people are living a great story. They just don't know how to tell it. 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 CONNECT WITH US:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/► X: https://x.com/neverinreverse► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1► website: https://neverinreverse.com/

    27 min
  4. FEB 18

    The Identity Crisis Every Founder Hits | EP 045

    In episode 045 of the Never in Reverse Podcast, host Jeremy Axel and co-host Douglas Cox delve into the complex themes of identity, masculinity, and the pressures faced by founders.  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: ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/ ► X: https://x.com/neverinreverse ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse ► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1 ► Website: https://neverinreverse.com/

    24 min
  5. FEB 11

    How to Outsource Without Losing Control: A Strategic Guide for Leaders | Valerie Bowden

    In this episode of the Never in Reverse Podcast, Jeremy Axel sits down with Valerie Bowden, an expert in outsourcing, who shares her unique journey from backpacking across Africa to establishing a successful outsourcing company that hires exclusively from the continent. 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 CONNECT WITH US:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/► X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/neverinreverse► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1► website: https://neverinreverse.com/

    26 min
  6. FEB 4

    The Productivity Paradox: Busy vs. Effective

    In episode 044 of the Never in Reverse Podcast, hosts Jeremy Axel and Douglas Cox discuss the common misconception that being busy equates to being productive. They explore the psychological aspects of productivity, the importance of effective leadership, and the need for structured frameworks to support team dynamics and customer relationships.  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: ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/ ► X: https://x.com/neverinreverse ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse ► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1 ► Website: https://neverinreverse.com/

    24 min
  7. JAN 14

    Redefining Success: When Climbing the Corporate Ladder Feels Hollow | NIR GUEST SERIES | JEAN TIEN

    In this episode of the Never in Reverse Podcast, guest Jean Tien, a corporate finance leader, TEDx speaker, and author, shares her journey as an Asian immigrant woman in the American workplace.  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: ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/ ► X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/neverinreverse ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse ► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1                                                                                   Listen and Share.

    30 min
  8. JAN 7

    The $68M Betrayal & The Unbreakable Partnership | Bill Fairman

    The business plan was solid. The handshake was firm. But what happens when the partnership you built your life on is suddenly holding a $68 million secret? 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 ==========FOLLOW US==========► YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeverInReverse► Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39zLUYtDfBDVkbeLAVuTcI► Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-in-reverse/id1756324120► Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01bdb6c8-fbc3-47c8-b47f-c1f640360356/never-in-reverse. =================CONNECT WITH US:=================► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverinreverse/► X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/neverinreverse► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neverinreverse                ► TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@neverinreverse1?_t=8rbZo6eWaJq&_r=1► Website: https://neverinreverse.com/                                               Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe

    31 min
5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

You have the power to change your life and Never In Reverse Podcast is here to show you how. Hosted by Jeremy Axel and Co-host Doug Cox, this fast-growing global podcast is changing millions of lives. In every episode, we share hard-earned wisdom, deeply personal stories, and actionable insights to help you transform your life. If you're a new listener, you're in the right place! Each episode is designed to empower you, guiding you one step closer to the life you want. Want more? Follow us at @neverinreverse for updates. What to Expect Each Week: - Engaging conversations with thought leaders and trailblazers - Insights into personal and professional growth - Practical strategies for overcoming life's challenges - A few laughs along the way! Whether you're commuting, working out, or simply unwinding at home, Never in Reverse is your companion for inspiration. Join us, subscribe, and set out on an exciting journey forward!🤝