• Episode 26: Blending Tradition and Innovation: Graeme Palmer's Journey in the UK Cleaning Industry
    Nov 11 2024

    Ever wondered how a family business can thrive through generations while adapting to modern techniques? Join me, AC Lockyer, as I sit down with Graeme Palmer from Palmer Trade Supplies and Palmer Co. Scotland's Limited, a company with deep roots stretching back to 1932. This episode promises to unravel the intriguing history and evolution of this third-generation business, starting from window cleaning and decorating to becoming the UK's new distributor for SoftWash Systems. Graham shares captivating insights into their journey, combining traditional values with innovative approaches like rope access and soft washing.

    This episode is not just about business—it’s a celebration of balancing professional and personal lives while pursuing passions. From skiing and golfing in Scotland to embracing cultural shifts in Florida, Graeme's story highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Join us for a rich conversation that not only offers a glimpse into the world of a multi-generational cleaning business but also emphasizes the joy found in aligning work with family and individual passions.

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    51 mins
  • Episode 25: From Corporate Life to Tiki Soft Wash, Randy and Roger Kaikula's Entrepreneurial Adventure
    Oct 28 2024

    What happens when two brothers trade the grind of corporate life for the freedom of entrepreneurship? Randy and Roger Kaikula's journey from a trucking career and corporate roles to founding Tiki's SoftWash in Rancho Cucamonga, California, is a compelling tale of adventure, cultural heritage, and new beginnings.

    The Kaikula brothers' story is not just about business; it's a vibrant narrative about embracing their Hawaiian roots through strategic branding and redefining their careers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Inspired by their father's entrepreneurial spirit, Randy and Roger transformed a casual conversation into a game-changing venture, using innovative platforms like YouTube to gain confidence and discover opportunities. Their journey highlights the power of personal choice and the impact of a well-crafted brand identity, manifesting in a Tiki-themed mascot that resonates with customers.

    From mastering the nuances of soft washing to navigating the competitive Californian market, Randy and Roger have faced challenges head-on, all while integrating family into their business lifestyle. They share their experiences with regulatory changes, the importance of proper training, and the benefits of collaboration with local competitors. This episode is brimming with valuable insights and personal anecdotes, encouraging listeners to take control of their career paths and explore the rewarding potential of entrepreneurship. Don't miss the chance to learn from their successes and consider the possibilities of building a lifestyle business.

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    41 mins
  • Episode 24: From Janitorial Roots to Dynamic Growth - Isaac's Tale
    Oct 21 2024

    Skyline Cleaning Service's Isaac LaRonge takes us on a captivating journey through the evolution of his family business in Madison, Wisconsin. With a background in software engineering, Isaac chose to embrace his family's legacy, showcasing the incredible adaptability and growth of Skyline over 45 years. We explore Isaac's personal life and interests, from weightlifting to disc golf, and his ventures like Madtown Sluggers, painting a vivid picture of a dynamic individual who's woven his personal passions into his professional narrative.

    The heart of our discussion centers on how Skyline expanded from a janitorial service to a multi-faceted cleaning company, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to meet customer demands. Unravel the story of embracing exterior cleaning and the pivotal decision to incorporate SoftWash Systems—a game-changer that spurred significant business growth. Isaac shares insights into the strategic decisions that fueled this expansion, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in business.

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    43 mins
  • Episode 23: Bob and Chantal Casias - Balancing Family, Faith, and Business in San Diego
    Oct 14 2024

    In AC Lockyer's conversation with Robert and Chantal Casias, discover how they turned their varied backgrounds into entrepreneurial success with San Diego Softwash. Chantal shares her journey from the RV sales floor to dental assisting, eventually leading marketing and management efforts, all while harnessing her family's deep-rooted entrepreneurial spirit. Bob reflects on how his father's perfectionism in the framing business instilled in him a relentless work ethic and goal-driven mindset. Together, their paths merged to create a thriving soft washing enterprise, sparked by a chance conversation with family friends.

    The journey of building a lifestyle business that supports family aspirations and adapts to the high-cost environment of San Diego is no small feat. We explore Chantal's transition into a full-time mom role while still contributing to the business, highlighting the balance between personal goals and business responsibilities. The challenges and strategies of scaling their soft wash company amidst San Diego's economic landscape are discussed, alongside their vision for expansion and future growth. Tune in for valuable entrepreneurial tips and the inspiring story of how Bob and Chantal navigate their unique path to success.

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    44 mins
  • Episode 22: Finding Opportunity in Adversity Matt Gour's Florida Experience
    Oct 7 2024

    Matt Gour, the entrepreneurial spirit behind My Soft Wash Guys in Nokomis, Florida, joins us to share his remarkable journey in the soft washing industry. With a keen eye for opportunity, Matt transitioned from his home and window cleaning business to soft washing, seizing the chance to introduce a new profit stream. His strategic upselling from window cleaning and invaluable lessons from SoftWash Systems courses have propelled his business forward, even in the face of natural challenges like hurricanes. Through his conversation with AC Lockyer, Matt reveals his tactical decisions during tumultuous times and how these experiences have underscored the importance of proper tools and strategies.

    A compelling segment of this episode is our exploration of the metaphorical and literal aspects of "breaking a leg," where reassessment and strategic slowdowns pave the way for better outcomes. Sharing personal stories, we look at the unexpected lessons learned during a tropical storm in Florida and how these moments have shaped decision-making processes. This narrative aligns with the concept of transitioning from an owner-operator to an owner-manager mindset, which Matt experienced after an injury forced him into a period of reflection and growth.

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    45 mins
  • Episode 21: From Army Aviation to Entrepreneurial Success: Jim McDonough's Journey with Softwash Systems
    Sep 23 2024

    Ever wondered how a military background can shape a thriving entrepreneurial journey? Join us as AC Lockyer chats with Jim McDonough, a Licensed Affiliate of Softwash Systems and a close friend of AC and SoftWash Systems. Jim opens up about his transition from Army Aviation to building a million-dollar lifestyle business in lower Alabama. Learn how his deep understanding of serving people, rather than selling to them, has been the cornerstone of his success.

    Dive into the world of Veterans Cleaning Solutions, where the focus extends beyond cleaning to uplift blue-collar workers through mentorship and leadership development. This episode is a powerful testament to the impact of community support and personal growth in building a sustainable business.

    Discover how personalized coaching, leadership growth, and community support can transform a business. Hear about the revolutionary soft washing technique, Jim's experiences at the Discover Softwash Open House, and the critical role of business coaching in overcoming challenges. We'll also delve into the benefits of being a SoftWash Systems Licensed Affiliate and the importance of maintaining high standards in safety and customer service. Packed with golden nuggets, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow their business with integrity and professionalism.

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    1 hr
  • Episode 20 - Overcoming Challenges: Donovan Morgan's Entrepreneurial Journey in Hawaii
    Sep 16 2024

    What does it take to transition from a military career to building a thriving business in Hawaii? Join AC Lockyer as he sits down with Donovan Morgan, owner of SoftWash Hawaii, who shares his inspiring journey from working in the Navy and Chevron to becoming an entrepreneur. Learn how Donovan's upbringing in a once sugarcane-filled area and his deep appreciation for the cultural essence of aloha have shaped his life's path. We explore his fascinating experiences in extreme environments like the Great Lakes and Kazakhstan and how these adventures have reinforced his love for Hawaii's unique lifestyle and community spirit.

    Discover the story behind Donovan's successful establishment of Soft Wash Hawaii, a soft washing business born out of a simple home cleaning task. Gain valuable insights into market research, customer needs, and the resilience required to overcome setbacks. This episode is packed with practical lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those operating in niche markets or isolated regions. Tune in to hear how Donovan involves his family in the business, creating a future that’s both financially secure and deeply connected to their Hawaiian roots.

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    43 mins
  • Episode 19 - Jim Steinmark from Patriot Softwash Shows Growth is Doable!
    Sep 9 2024

    Are you interested in growing and expanding your Lifestyle Business? Jim Steinmark, owner of Patriot SoftWash, grew up as an entrepreneur, built his business, purchased another, and is now expanding into a third! Join ACLockyer as he and Jim talk about how that has come about and some tips on how you can make it happen for you.

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    51 mins