S. B. Cox, Inc.

⏱️ 1:39:16 🎤 Ed Stelter, Bobby Cox

AUDIO EPISODE

0:00

Chapters

Click to jump to section

0:00

Fear of Failure

Bobby Cox reflects on the constant fear of losing the business his father started and the personal sacrifices made to keep it afloat.
0:46

Welcome to Foundations

Host Ed Stelter introduces Bobby Cox and the story of S. B. Cox, Inc., highlighting its evolution from demolition to a diverse construction services company.
1:52

From Demolition to Diversity

Bobby details the company's expansion into demolition, landfill operations, recycling centers, roll-off containers, portable toilets, and ready-mix concrete, celebrating its 60th anniversary.
3:04

Early Days of Demolition

The discussion covers the origins of S. B. Cox, Inc., starting with dump trucks and gradually moving into demolition, initially focusing on salvaging materials.
4:39

Salvage and Ingenuity

Bobby shares stories about salvaging brick and lumber, the unique office setup with a payphone for incoming calls, and the resourcefulness of early demolition work.
7:24

Family Background and Enterprise

Bobby discusses his grandfather's varied business ventures, including mining stone, a concrete plant, a riding school, and a dance hall, contrasting his father's continuous stacking of businesses.
9:28

Evolution of Demolition

Bobby recounts the transition from traditional demolition methods to the use of hydraulic excavators, detailing significant projects like an imploded ice house and the challenges of the job.
11:58

Risks and Safety

The conversation shifts to the inherent dangers of demolition, personal incidents, and how safety regulations have impacted the industry, making it more challenging to use traditional tools like wrecking balls.
15:30

Growing Up in the Business

Bobby shares his early experiences working for his father, including driving a truck at 16, and reflects on his brief college stint and the importance of practical experience versus formal education.
40:04

Personal and Business Challenges

Bobby recounts his return to the family business after a personal tragedy, the expansion into roll-off and portable toilet services, and the eventual entry into the ready-mix concrete business, highlighting key individuals who contributed to the company's growth.

Speakers

Ed Stelter

Host

Bobby Cox

Key Takeaways

✦

Embrace diversification to ensure business resilience and capitalize on new opportunities.

✦

Prioritize resourcefulness and ingenuity in problem-solving, especially when resources are limited.

✦

Invest in the right equipment and adapt to technological advancements in your industry.

✦

Cultivate strong relationships with employees and partners, empowering key individuals to drive growth.

✦

Maintain a hands-on approach and understand the operational aspects of your business.

✦

Be prepared for and learn from mistakes; even significant setbacks can be turning points for growth.

✦

Surround yourself with competent and trustworthy people who can complement your skills.

Want the full experience?

Join the Inner Circle for full access to every episode, AI-powered insights, personalized coaching, and a network of industry leaders.

Join Inner Circle →

← EP305: Micro Mini Reefs with Harley Finberg of PNW Customs

Legal Mistakes That Could Destroy Contractors & Remodelers | Heather Macklin →