Episode Details
April 4, 2025
34 minutes
- Networking That Matters – Doug and Jeremy explore what makes a professional connection meaningful and how to go beyond transactional networking.
- Learning the Skill of Connection – Networking isn’t just natural—it’s a skill that can be learned, practiced, and improved over time.
- Mentors and Their Impact – Doug and Jeremy reflect on the mentors who helped shape their careers and how those relationships continue to influence them.
- Authenticity Over Transactions – Real relationships are built on value, trust, and honest communication—not just asking for favors.
- Giving Before Getting – The key to building strong networks? Understand what you can offer before asking for anything in return.
Featured Quotes
"Jeremy Axel"
I used to think networking was about what people could do for me. Now I know it’s about what I can bring to the table first.
"Doug Cox"
Mentorship changed the trajectory of my career. We all need someone who sees our potential before we do.
Episode Transcript And Overview
In this episode of Never in Reverse, Doug and Jeremy explore The Importance of Networking in 2025 and what makes business relationships truly meaningful. They reflect on their own journeys—learning from mentors, mentoring others, and shifting from transactional to authentic connections. Jeremy opens up about early missteps in networking, while Doug shares how observing successful people helped him grow. If you’re aiming to deepen your professional relationships this year, this episode offers practical insights and personal stories to help you build a network that supports real growth. Tune in to learn how to make networking work for you in 2025.
Timeline Notes
The topic for today’s episode is networking. Referrals and relationships are extremely power in business and beyond.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jeremy and Doug speak to the importance of authenticity and honesty in business relationships.
Doug gravitates towards successful people. When he worked in telecommunications, Doug listened to a successful salesperson’s calls to learn about new sales strategies.
Notable Guests
Jeremy Axel
Founder
Jeremy Axel
Founder
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.
