Claim OwnershipThe OctoClean Podcast
Subscribed: 12Played: 34
Subscribe
© 2025 The OctoClean Podcast
Description
With over 30 years experience in the janitorial industry, the Stowe Brothers, Matt and Greg, know what it takes to operate a successful cleaning business. Follow along as they share tips every business owner needs to build a profitable commercial cleaning company.
35 Episodes
Reverse
Every entrepreneur has worn the mask of success. You smile through stress, act confident when you’re uncertain, and say “yes” when you’re barely hanging on. In this episode of OctoClean Media, Greg and I pull back the curtain on what it really takes to keep a business alive the struggles, the failures, and the lessons that shape strong entrepreneurs. We talk about the pressure to look bigger than you are, the danger of overpromising, and the burnout that comes from pretending everything’s per...
Starting your business is exciting; until it’s time to send that first invoice. Billing clients can feel confusing, stressful, and sometimes awkward, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about billing your clients the right way so you can get paid faster and build steady cash flow. You’ll learn how to set up simple, professional invoices, avoid costly billing mistakes, and use smart strategies to make payments come in on time witho...
Ever wondered what a LLC is or if you should have one? In this episode, we dive deep into what an LLC really is, why it matters, and how it can protect your business and personal assets. We'll break down the truth about unnecessary fees and hidden charges, explain how forming an LLC can actually save you money, and share insights on what to look for if you're considering building a business with a partner. Whether you're a new business owner, freelancer, or entrepreneur exploring your option...
What if your onboarding process didn’t just welcome customers but turned them into your biggest source of referrals? In this episode, we uncover how a strong onboarding system builds trust, creates memorable “wow” moments, and transforms satisfied customers into powerful referral sources that help your business grow. You’ll learn what makes onboarding effective, how to add personal touches that stick, and the right strategies to move from loyalty to referrals. Plus, we’ll share stories, dive...
In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about day porters, from what they do daily to the expectations vs. reality that every business owner should understand. With years of experience running a commercial cleaning company, we share our real stories, lessons learned, and what to avoid when hiring day porters. If you run a cleaning business, janitorial service, or commercial facilities company, this episode is your guide to making smart decisions about day porters. In this...
In this episode, we’re opening up about some of the biggest failures, setbacks, and painful lessons we’ve experienced while building our businesses. From costly missteps to moments we almost gave up, we’re sharing it all. If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or just someone trying to build something from the ground up, this one’s for you. For those of you with a cleaning business, this one should strike true. Don't try to cut corners, it will help avoid careless mistakes that cou...
Not every client is worth keeping Are some of your clients draining your time, energy, or profits? In this episode, we dive into the hard truth: not every client is worth keeping. Whether they're too demanding, underpaying, or just not a fit anymore, knowing when to let go is critical for growth. Learn how to spot the red flags, protect your margins, and make decisions that actually benefit your business in the long run. Support the show Connect with us: Instagram Facebook YouTube
In this episode, we break down what branding actually means and why it’s way more than just a logo. Whether you’re starting a business, running a cleaning company, or trying to build your presence online, understanding branding is key to growth. We cover the difference between branding and marketing, how to build brand trust, and why your identity matters in every client interaction. If you want your business to stand out and grow, this is the episode for you. Join our private community: ...
Let’s be real, everyone messes up. In this episode, we’re talking about what really happens when you make mistakes in business and why owning them is the smartest move you can make. Taking accountability builds trust, shows your clients you're human, and actually makes them more loyal in the long run. If you’ve ever felt like a failure or didn’t know how to bounce back, this one's for you. If you're just starting out or building your business from the ground up, this is the kind of min...
Owning a business isn’t all success stories and Instagram wins. It’s late nights, missed family moments, emotional exhaustion, and mental strain. In this powerful episode, we talk about the real cost of entrepreneurship and why mental awareness is crucial when building a business. From sacrificing family time to pushing yourself beyond healthy limits, we open up about how chasing your dream can turn into losing yourself and why it's not worth it if it costs your peace, relationships, and wel...
Making the leap from residential to commercial cleaning is one of the biggest moves a cleaning business owner can make and it’s a game-changer when done right. In this episode, we dive into what it really means to transition from cleaning homes to servicing commercial spaces. We explore how your mindset, branding, gear, and client approach all need to evolve as you position yourself to land larger contracts and scale your business. If you're tired of house-to-house hustle and yo...
Running a cleaning or janitorial business isn’t just about keeping spaces spotless, it’s about protecting your team, your clients, and your reputation. In this video, Matt and Greg dive into why every cleaning company needs solid security policies and safety procedures in place. We’ll cover the essential procedures and protocols every business should look out for and have in place to protect their team, ensure client satisfaction, and maintain high standards of service. Whether you're just ...
When you start out, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you have to do everything yourself. You wear every hat, chase every lead, and try to hold it all together. But here’s the truth: asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a strategy. In this podcast, Matt and Greg talk about how It’s crucial to pre-plan and build a solid processes from the start that can save you from chaos later. Whether it's how you manage clients, schedule your day, or handle emergencies—systems keep your busines...
Struggling to land high-paying cleaning contracts? In this episode, we dive into the art of writing winning proposals that help your cleaning business stand out, secure more deals, and boost profits. Greg and Matthew talk about common mistakes to avoid, and how to tailor your approach to different clients. Learn how to craft compelling proposals that highlight your value, set the right pricing, and convince clients that you’re the best choice for the job! Try your 30-day free trial with Oran...
Starting a cleaning business without a physical office or headquarters can feel overwhelming. Where do you store your supplies? How do you conduct interviews or meet with clients? In this episode, Greg and I will break down practical tips and strategies to help you run a successful cleaning business, even without a dedicated office space. Start your free trial with OrangeQC Today! https://www.orangeqc.com/octoclean/?utm_source=octoclean_media&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=no_...
Success in the cleaning industry is determined by three key factors: customer satisfaction, overall profitability, and the efficiency of your operational systems. However, many professionals in the industry struggle to accurately gauge customer satisfaction, determine the right pricing, or implement the systems necessary for smooth and effective business operations. In this podcast, Greg and I will dive into what it takes to elevate your company and achieve success in 2025. Visit OrangeQC to...
Emergencies can strike any business, but how you respond makes all the difference. From unexpected staffing shortages to supply chain issues, cleaning companies face unique challenges that require quick thinking and preparation. In this podcast, Greg and I will explore how to create a crisis management plan that keeps your operations running smoothly, no matter what comes your way. Support the show Connect with us: Instagram Facebook YouTube
Contracts are the backbone of any cleaning business, but not all contracts are created equal. How can you spot potential red flags before signing, and what strategies can you use to negotiate terms that benefit both you and your clients? In this podcast, Greg and I will walk you through the essentials of navigating contracts to protect your business and set the stage for long-term success. Support the show Connect with us: Instagram Facebook YouTube
Areas with ongoing construction and development are filled with opportunities for your cleaning business. But how do you secure construction cleaning contracts and what do you need to get the job done well? In this podcast, Greg and I will discuss how you can add construction cleaning to your cleaning portfolio. Support the show Connect with us: Instagram Facebook YouTube
Bidding commercial cleaning jobs is essential to developing your cleaning business. We’ve covered this topic in the past, and today we want to focus on improving your system. We recommend going back and watching our bidding videos after this one as they contain lots of important information. Visit OrangeQC to start your free trial: https://www.orangeqc.com/octoclean/?utm_source=octoclean_media&utm_campaign=bidding_podcast Support the show Connect with us: Instagram Facebook YouTube
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States