The OctoClean Podcast
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.
Episodes
41 episodes
Does Subcontracting Work in the Cleaning Industry? Transitioning from Staffing to Leadership
In this episode, Matt and Greg are happy to have special guest Ricky Regalado of "Clean and Cocktails," Route, The Janitorial Store, and more to share his expertise on the commercial cleaning industry. The discussion explores how subcontracting...
Commercial Cleaning Bidding: Why Pricing by Square Foot Costs You Money!
https://connecteam.com/employee-app-360-funnel/?ref=homepage-heroAre you still pricing commercial cleaning contracts based on square footage alone?In today’s episode, we break down why that approach is outdated and why many cleaning...
How to Increase Commercial Cleaning Profits (Easy Add Ons!)
Are you looking for ways to increase your commercial cleaning profits without having to find dozens of new accounts? In this episode of the OctoClean Podcast, Matt and Greg dive into the world of specialty cleaning services and show you how eas...
The System Play: Why Franchising Wins in Commercial Cleaning
Investing in a franchise system significantly increases the likelihood of success in commercial cleaning. Why? Because it eliminates the guesswork and replaces it with proven processes. In this episode, Matt and Greg sit down with Matt from @Co...
The Psychology of Pricing Why Clients Say Yes or No
Pricing isn’t just about numbers, it’s about psychology. In this episode, we break down why clients say yes (or no) to your pricing and how perception, framing, and behavioral triggers influence buying decisions. You’ll learn the difference bet...
2026 Cleaning Business Resolutions Grow, Profit & Succeed
2026 is already here, and if you’re serious about growing a profitable, sustainable cleaning business, this episode is for you. In this podcast, we break down practical New Year’s resolutions specifically for cleaning business owners, including...
Wearing the Mask of Success: The Things We Hide in Business
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 ...
Billing Clients 101: How to Get Paid Without the Stress
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 ne...
LLC Basics: What You Must Know!
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 ...
A Customer Onboarding Process That Leads to Referrals
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...
What is a Day Porter? Expectations vs Reality in Cleaning Businesses
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, w...
The Hard Lessons We Learned Building Our Business (So You Don’t Have To)
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 entrepren...
Let Go of Clients That Are Hurting Your Business
Not every client is worth keepingAre 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...
Is Your Brand Helping or Hurting Your Growth: How to Build a Brand That Sticks
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...
Turn Business Mistakes Into Growth: Keep Clients & Build Credibility
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 ...
The Truth About Owning A Business: What No One Talks About (Mental Health & Sacrifice)
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...
Residential To Commercial Cleaning: How To Transition!
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 c...
Janitorial Security: How to Handle Keys, Alarm Codes, and More!
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 polic...
Running A Cleaning Business Solo: How to Create Processes and Backup Plans
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.
Creating Proposals That Create Profits: The Art of Persuasion
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 ...
How To Run A Cleaning Business Without An Office: Expert Tips And Tricks! | Ep 21
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 s...
What Makes A Great Cleaning Company in 2025? Services, Operations & Customer Satisfaction | Ep. 20
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...
Crisis Management for Cleaning Companies: Emergencies and Challenges | OctoClean Podcast Ep. 19
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...
Cleaning Contracts: How to Spot Red Flags and Negotiate Favorable Terms | OctoClean Podcast Ep. 18
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 ...
Construction Cleaning: Build Your Profits! | OctoClean Podcast Ep. 17
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 disc...