How much time would you invest in shaping an idea before throwing in the towel?
On this episode of Navigating No, I sit down with Greg Johnson, co-founder and CEO of AquiPor, whose path to success is built on relentless perseverance in the face of rejection.
From chasing a professional basketball career—only to be cut at the last minute—to revolutionizing stormwater management, Greg has encountered obstacles at every stage. But instead of letting rejection define him, he used every “no” as fuel to build something bigger. Now, as he pitches for funding to scale his vision, Greg knows firsthand the challenges of asking for investment and the importance of staying true to a mission, even when the road gets tough. His journey is proof that doing the right thing—even when it’s the hardest thing—is never the wrong move.
00:00 Introduction to Overcoming Rejection
00:47 Greg Johnson’s Early Life and Entrepreneurial Roots
07:05 The Journey of AquiPor: From Concept to Reality
18:28 Challenges and Lessons in Business
26:20 The Tough Decision: Prioritizing Long-Term Stability
28:02 Introducing Aquapor: A Revolutionary Concrete Technology
30:24 Challenges in Implementing New Technology in Cities
34:38 Strategic Project Selection and Market Expansion
36:06 Innovative Integration with Existing Concrete Standards
42:16 Overcoming Rejections and Fundraising Challenges
47:25 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
50:31 Final Thoughts