Episode Details
April 25, 2025
37 minutes
- Reevaluating Role Models – Jeremy and Doug reflect on the people they admired growing up—ranging from star athletes to neighborhood father figures—and how those influences have evolved with time and maturity.
- The Influence of Media & Society – The hosts explore how modern media and social platforms shape our idea of success and worth, often distorting what it means to be a genuine role model.
- Personal Growth Through Real-Life Examples – Both hosts open up about finding mentors and inspiration in everyday people—friends, family, and coworkers—who demonstrate integrity, commitment, and emotional intelligence.
- Shaping the Next Generation – Doug discusses how he’s working to give his children realistic and grounded perspectives on success and character in the face of social media’s exaggerated narratives.
- Letting Go of Celebrity Ideals – Jeremy emphasizes the importance of shifting from idolizing fame to valuing authenticity, especially in relationships and fatherhood.
Featured Quotes
"Some of the best role models I’ve ever had were never on a screen—they were just quietly living good lives, showing up every day for the people around them."
Jeremy Axel
"I’d rather my kids admire someone who’s mastered their craft with humility than someone who’s famous just for being loud."
Doug Cox
Episode Transcript And Overview
In this episode of Never in Reverse, Doug and Jeremy explore how our understanding of role models changes as we grow—shifting from the celebrities and athletes of childhood to the authentic, everyday people who truly shape our character. They discuss the impact of media, the distortion of success online, and how to find and become role models in daily life. Whether you're raising kids, navigating adulthood, or simply reflecting on who you want to become, this episode invites you to look closer at the real role models around you.
Timeline Notes
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.
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.
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.
Doug says that there are more influences on our children today than there were in his childhood in the age of social media.
Jeremy says that the content-driven landscape we live in can present distorted images of our role models, and sometimes over exaggerates small missteps.
Social media over exaggerates 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.
Doug finds inspiration in people who have worked hard to master their craft. He values authenticity in his role models over perfection.
Doug feels fortunate that he has a network of genuine and kindhearted people, both in his professional life and in his personal life.
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.
Notable Guests
Adi Klevit
Founder | CEO
Adi Klevit
Founder | CEO
Adi Klevit is the Founder of Business Success Consulting Group and the host of the Systems Simplified podcast. With nearly three decades of experience as an industrial engineer and process consultant, she has helped hundreds of growth-focused companies systematize their operations to scale successfully.
Known as “The Process Guru,” Adi specializes in designing and implementing turnkey systems that reduce dependence on the owner, empower teams, and increase profitability. Her clients range from fast-growing trades businesses to multi-location professional service firms, and she is a trusted advisor to CEOs across the U.S.
Joe Dillon
Divorce Mediator & Founder
Joe Dillon
Divorce Mediator & Founder
Joe is a pioneer in divorce mediation who has been helping couples navigate the end of their marriages with dignity and financial wisdom for over 17 years. As co-founder of Equitable Mediation Services, Joe combines his MBA in Finance with specialized training from Harvard, MIT, and Northwestern University to guide couples toward agreements that protect both their emotional wellbeing and financial futures.
Joe pioneered virtual divorce mediation in 2011, nearly a decade before others adopted online practices during the pandemic. His results speak for themselves: Equitable Mediation Services maintains a 98% case resolution rate, significantly higher than the industry average of 70%.
Jeremy Axel
Host
Jeremy Axel
Host
Founder and sales manager of Fluent Conveyors, brings over 10 years of experience transforming the conveyor industry with innovative design, exceptional service, and strong dealer partnerships. Serving sectors like recycling, agriculture, and packaging, he delivers custom solutions that enhance efficiency and profitability. Known for his strategic relationship-building and customer-focused approach, Jeremy has earned top honors such as Sales Rep of the Year and President’s Club, reflecting his ongoing commitment to growth and industry leadership.
