In episode 42 of "Never in Reverse Podcast," The Fluent Conveyor's Origin Story. Jeremy Axel reveals how borrowed tools, relentless grit, and a focus on real problems built a business.

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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