The Ups and Downs of Running a Small Business: Lessons from a Lifetime of Lifting People, Business, and Community Up

At ninety-five years old, James Fay Comley has lived through nearly a century of change— and built a thriving, multigenerational business that has stood the test of time. As founder and president of Embree Elevator, a family-run company serving Massachusetts and New Hampshire for more than five decades, Comley knows firsthand what it takes to turn grit, honesty, and perseverance into lasting success.

In The Ups and Downs of Owning and Running a Small Business, Comley shares the wisdom, humor, and hard-won lessons that shaped his nine-decade journey— from repairing elevators as a young tradesman to leading a respected company rooted in integrity and family values. Along the way, he reveals what it really means to be an entrepreneur: taking calculated risks, building strong relationships, mentoring others, and balancing work, family, and faith.

Filled with memorable stories, practical advice, and 25 timeless philosophies for life and leadership, this book offers inspiration for anyone starting out, starting over, or striving to build something that lasts. Whether you’ re launching a small business, running a family company, or simply trying to live and work with purpose, Comley’ s insights remind us that true success is measured not just by profit, but by character, community, and the people you lift up along the way.

James Fay Comley is the founder and longtime chief executive officer of Embree Elevator, a family-owned company he has led since 1972. With more than seven decades of hands-on experience in the elevator industry, he is widely respected for his leadership, commitment to safety, and dedication to preserving the history of the trade. He served for over twenty years on the Massachusetts Board of Elevator Regulations, including four years as chairman, helping shape state safety standards. A U.S. Navy veteran and recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, Comley is passionate about mentorship, education, and giving back. He lives in Massachusetts and continues to share the lessons learned from a lifetime of work, service, and entrepreneurship.

Jason R. Rich is the author of numerous books and is a frequent contributor to several national magazines and popular websites. His consumer technology-related articles have appeared on CBS Essentials, InMyExpertOpinion, U.S. News 360 Reviews, Forbes Vetted, Men's Journal, The Guardian, and on other popular sites.