What happens when the software platform running your entire business suddenly crashes and stays down for weeks? For cleaning business owners using Booking Koala, this nightmare scenario became reality in what can only be described as a customer service catastrophe.

We pull back the curtain on this ongoing crisis that has left service-based businesses unable to book clients, process payments, or maintain their websites for over two weeks. The true failure, however, isn't just technical – it's the stunning lack of communication, empathy, and accountability from the company during a critical moment.

The conversation goes beyond just critiquing one platform's mistakes. We explore essential business survival skills including having contingency plans, knowing how to "pivot" when systems fail, and maintaining old-school backup methods that don't rely on technology. Many businesses found themselves completely paralyzed because they had no alternative systems in place – a dangerous vulnerability in our technology-dependent world.

Customer service emerges as the real differentiator between businesses that thrive and those that collapse under pressure. We discuss practical approaches to handling customer complaints, the importance of taking ownership even when problems aren't directly your fault, and why accessibility (yes, having an actual phone number people can call!) still matters tremendously.

This episode serves as both a cautionary tale and a masterclass in crisis management. Whether you're running a cleaning business, a software company, or any service-oriented enterprise, these lessons in transparent communication and customer-first problem solving can mean the difference between weathering a storm or becoming another business failure statistic.

Listen now to ensure your business never falls into these devastating customer service traps!

Join my email list and get a free mini course: https://klean-freaks-university.newzenler.com/f/welcome-to-klean-freaks-university-1

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It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Support the show

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com

Note: I misspoke, the victim's name was not released at the time of the recording of this podcast!

If you are a victim of sexual assult, here is a national 800 hotline: https://rainn.org/about-national-sexual-assault-telephone-hotline

Or Call 800-656-4673 (HOPE)

A shocking case from Louisville, Kentucky serves as a critical safety wake-up call for cleaning professionals and service providers everywhere. When a 73-year-old man allegedly assaulted a house cleaner he hired through Nextdoor, posting a $250,000 cash bond after his arrest, we knew this story demanded immediate attention.

Safety protocols aren't just recommendations—they're essential lifelines in an industry where workers regularly enter strangers' homes. Your gut instinct exists for a reason, and that sixth sense deserves your full respect. Those goosebumps, that feeling something's "off"—these are evolutionary protection mechanisms alerting you to potential danger before your conscious mind processes it. People emit energy before harmful actions, and developing sensitivity to these warning signals could save your life.

Practical safety measures must become non-negotiable habits. Implement location-sharing through apps like Life360, establish check-in protocols with trusted contacts, collect comprehensive client information, require signed agreements, and consider payment upfront. For business owners with teams, your responsibility extends to protecting your employees through tracking systems and clear safety guidelines. Remember the power of "no"—you have every right to refuse service to anyone who raises red flags, regardless of potential income loss.

As we track this case through the justice system (with a possible follow-up episode after the March 31st court appearance), let it strengthen your resolve to prioritize safety. The cleaning industry presents unique vulnerabilities, but with proper protocols, awareness, and boundary-setting, you can significantly reduce risks. Your life and wellbeing are worth far more than any cleaning job or client relationship. What safety measures will you implement or strengthen today?

Story of Man who held his house cleaner in container:

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3909644/South-Carolina-s-serial-killer-Man-kept-woman-chained-metal-container-killed-boyfriend-shows-cops-TWO-graves-farm-confesses-13-year-old-quadruple-murder.html

https://www.wdrb.com/news/crime-reports/73-year-old-louisville-man-accused-of-raping-woman-hired-to-clean-his-house/article_e75c9e52-5b15-4554-9b2a-c15e1d0ede53.html

Send us a text

It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

To order All-Natural Cleaning Products: www.purevergreen.com
See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com

What if you could transform your passion for sustainability into a thriving business? Meet Kathy Borie, the inspiring force behind Crunchy Cleaning by Kathy, an eco-friendly cleaning venture that marries her love for nature with entrepreneurial spirit.

Kathy shares her compelling journey from city life to the serene Poconos, where she found a community of like-minded individuals and built a brand dedicated to non-toxic cleaning solutions. She opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood with the demands of entrepreneurship, and the strategies she employed to achieve financial independence and flexibility.

Join us for an enlightening conversation on the intricacies of managing a cleaning business, where Kathy reveals her approach to client selectivity and the art of collaboration over competition. Discover the importance of using eco-friendly products and how Kathy crafts her own cleaning solutions to ensure a healthier environment for both clients and cleaners. She offers candid insights into the balance of maintaining high standards without overextending oneself, and the role of constructive feedback in fostering growth and professionalism in the industry.

Explore with us the mindset required to run a small business and the emotional ties that bind an entrepreneur to their creation. Kathy unpacks the complexities of potential business expansion and the mental health considerations that come with it, along with her take on financial motivation and the societal misconceptions of the house cleaning industry. Her story is a testament to challenging stereotypes and advocating for the respect and recognition that professional cleaning services deserve. Tune in to learn from Kathy's passion-driven approach and how it continues to fuel her successful eco-conscious enterprise.

Send us a text

It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Erica Paynter is the brains behind My Virtual Bookkeeper, a bookkeeping firm for cleaning companies, and the creator of Clean Co. Cash Flow Academy and the Clean Co. Collective. She’s on a mission to help cleaning business owners make sense of their numbers without boring them to tears! Erica’s all about turning messy books into profit-packed powerhouses.

support@myvbk.com

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

To order All-Natural Cleaning Products: www.purevergreen.com
See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com

Discover how a simple cleaning checklist can transform your business and maintain high standards, even as you expand your team. (Look for google Drive link below, for a basic cleaning check list.)

Join me, Shannon Miller, alongside Jamie Runco from Above All Cleaning Services, as we unpack the secrets behind creating an effective cleaning checklist that ensures consistency in every job.

Learn about digital tools like Jobber that are revolutionizing checklist management, enabling growth while keeping the quality of your services on par with leading brands. We'll guide you through defining cleaning standards and differentiating between varying service levels to meet diverse client expectations seamlessly.

We dive into the nuts and bolts of achieving efficiency and professionalism in the cleaning industry. From implementing the 70% clutter rule (see link to episode below) to leveraging the roles of 1099 contractors versus W-2 employees, our conversation provides actionable insights for managing your team and maintaining legal compliance.

See how universal training parallels, such as those employed by McDonald's, can prepare your staff for any cleaning scenario, boosting client satisfaction and reducing decision fatigue. This episode is a goldmine of strategies to streamline your operations and keep your business running smoothly.

Finally, we tackle the sensitive topic of price adjustments in the face of rising costs. Jamie and I discuss strategies for implementing regular price increases to sustain your profit margins without alienating clients. You'll hear about the critical role of equipping your team with the latest tools and supplies to ensure job satisfaction and retention. We also share our personal experiences with testing cleaning equipment, emphasizing the need for effectiveness while avoiding practices that might hamper efficiency. Tune in to learn how to handle unforeseen challenges and maintain accountability through surprise visits and detailed checklists.

Cleaning Check List-Google Drive:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/16GBrCWQcwbSiIrkDFYg68DcPHtwPkUs6/view?usp=drive_link

70% Clutter Rule Link:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2155653/episodes/13668777-episode-23-the-70-clutter-rule.mp3?download=true

Send us a text

It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Erica Paynter is the brains behind My Virtual Bookkeeper, a bookkeeping firm for cleaning companies, and the creator of Clean Co. Cash Flow Academy and the Clean Co. Collective. She’s on a mission to help cleaning business owners make sense of their numbers without boring them to tears! Erica’s all about turning messy books into profit-packed powerhouses.

support@myvbk.com

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

To order All-Natural Cleaning Products: www.purevergreen.com
See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com

What if the secret to a flexible, fulfilling lifestyle was as simple as changing your water? That’s precisely what Crystal discovered on her remarkable journey from a bartender to a thriving entrepreneur in the cleaning industry.

Join us as Crystal shares her inspiring story that took a pivotal turn during a life-changing retreat in Bali. From losing her job during the pandemic to launching her own business, her resilience and the power of high-ticket network marketing shine through. Crystal's insights offer a refreshing take on rebuilding life with intention and flexibility.

In our conversation, we explore the extraordinary health benefits of Kangen Water and its role in transforming Crystal’s wellness journey. Learn how this innovative water ionizer can balance the body's acidity and bring about remarkable health improvements, such as clearer skin and relief from menopausal symptoms. We also discuss its versatility, from cooking to cleaning, and touch on alternative products like Force of Nature. Our discussion offers new perspectives on embracing products that promote overall wellness and remove contaminants.

Crystal’s passion for ionized water extends beyond personal health—it’s a gateway to achieving financial and personal growth through attraction marketing. Discover the unique opportunities this business model offers, allowing more time for family and personal aspirations. We also talk about the innovative M Guard device, designed to neutralize electronic waste, and how it complements a health-centric lifestyle. Whether it's dreaming about future adventures or setting personal goals, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration to help you align your life with your passions and desires.

Send us a text

It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Erica Paynter is the brains behind My Virtual Bookkeeper, a bookkeeping firm for cleaning companies, and the creator of Clean Co. Cash Flow Academy and the Clean Co. Collective. She’s on a mission to help cleaning business owners make sense of their numbers without boring them to tears! Erica’s all about turning messy books into profit-packed powerhouses.

support@myvbk.com

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

To order All-Natural Cleaning Products: www.purevergreen.com
See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com

Erica Painter, the visionary behind My Virtual Bookkeeper, transforms chaotic financial records into insightful, profit-driven reports for cleaning businesses. In this episode, Erica enlightens us with her journey and passion for effective bookkeeping, emphasizing the significance of engaging professionals with a teacher's heart. She shares her expertise on managing rapid business growth, likening it to balancing platters as a waitress, and the importance of asking the right questions when working with accountants to establish clear financial goals.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of navigating multiple income streams using platforms like QuickBooks, Square, and Jobber. Erica highlights the intricacies of integrating these tools and offers practical advice on simplifying financial operations to avoid duplicate entries. Discussions extend to the importance of key performance indicators such as gross profit margin, cash flow, and customer retention rate, and how new interactive reporting features and AI integration can enhance the tracking of these crucial metrics.

Exploring the transition from sole proprietorship to LLC, Erica discusses the need for legal protection and the psychological shift required when becoming an employer. She also shares insights on maintaining financial organization, including the Profit First method, and the value of separating business accounts for different purposes. The episode is rich with anecdotes and strategies for building a lasting legacy in the cleaning industry, while underscoring the mindset needed to justify pricing in a service-based environment. Join us for a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights tailored for those in the cleaning business landscape.

Here is her contact information:

FREE RESOURCES: Making less than 6 figures & DIYing your bookkeeping? Grab my free guide: myvbk.com/cblfreeguide

Making 6+ figures & want to save on taxes? Book a free call: myvbk.com/cblfreecall

Let’s connect! Friend me: facebook.com/erica.paynter Follow my biz page: facebook.com/myvirtualbookkeeper

Send us a text

It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Erica Paynter is the brains behind My Virtual Bookkeeper, a bookkeeping firm for cleaning companies, and the creator of Clean Co. Cash Flow Academy and the Clean Co. Collective. She’s on a mission to help cleaning business owners make sense of their numbers without boring them to tears! Erica’s all about turning messy books into profit-packed powerhouses.

support@myvbk.com

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

To order All-Natural Cleaning Products: www.purevergreen.com
See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com

Imagine transforming a chore into a sanctuary of peace. That's exactly what we explore as we uncover the therapeutic potential of cleaning. Through a collection of personal stories, including our unique experiences with a nomadic lifestyle and early homemaking skills, we reveal how these shaped our perception of cleanliness and its impact on mental well-being. Discover how simple rituals like making your bed can create a calming environment, and learn about the psychological benefits of maintaining a tidy space, reducing stress, and embracing practices like feng shui to enhance energy flow in your home.

We unmask the intriguing world of Swedish death cleaning and feng shui cleaning, diving into their emotional depth and significance. This episode highlights the importance of selective client partnerships and addresses the challenges posed by hoarding situations. Through shared anecdotes, we reflect on the dual therapeutic benefits of cleaning, for both clients and professionals. Discover why tasks such as organizing and sweeping are akin to meditation, how aromatherapy can enhance the cleaning experience, and the necessity of charging appropriately to foster a positive working environment.

Transform cleaning into a form of self-care, where mindfulness and aromatherapy turn mundane tasks into meditative experiences. Balancing work and family while keeping a tidy home can be challenging, but hiring professional cleaners may be the key to maintaining peace of mind. As we discuss strategies for achieving this balance, we touch on tax considerations for home-operated businesses, underscoring the importance of consulting with tax professionals. Finally, we champion the idea of treating regular cleaning as an essential act of self-care, promising improved well-being and tranquility for those who embrace it.

Send us a text

It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

To order All-Natural Cleaning Products: www.purevergreen.com
See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com

Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Natasha and Tamara, the sister duo at the helm of Cleancation, as they transform their cleaning business from its modest Jamaican roots to a flourishing enterprise in North Jersey. Their story is a testament to resilience and empowerment, with a strong focus on supporting their team, especially single mom contractors, to reach new personal heights. Natasha and Tamara reveal the tools and strategies that have propelled their success, like the Go High Level platform, while candidly discussing its limitations. Their experience offers invaluable insights into the balance between embracing technology and maintaining a personal touch in today's business landscape.

Discover the innovative hybrid model that Natasha and Tamara employ, blending employees, contractors, and subcontractors to navigate the complexities of the cleaning industry. From narrowing service areas to avoid resource exhaustion to strategically expanding into neighboring states, they share lessons learned from overcoming initial challenges. With a keen awareness of the industry's unexpected hurdles—like the laborious task of wallpaper removal or the mishaps of shower door accidents—they emphasize the crucial need for understanding the scope of each project and ensuring quality control.

Throughout the episode, Natasha and Tamara open up about the emotional and operational challenges of running a business while highlighting the importance of celebrating personal and team successes. Their discussion on balancing automation with human interaction in customer service offers a refreshing perspective, urging businesses to recognize the irreplaceable value of personal connections. As the sisters reflect on their leadership journey, they inspire us to align our personal goals with our business objectives, creating a positive impact on our teams and the communities we serve.

Natasha & Tamara Can be reached at cleanation.com

Send us a text

It can be crowed when trying to figure out who you are going to learn from

Erica Paynter is the brains behind My Virtual Bookkeeper, a bookkeeping firm for cleaning companies, and the creator of Clean Co. Cash Flow Academy and the Clean Co. Collective. She’s on a mission to help cleaning business owners make sense of their numbers without boring them to tears! Erica’s all about turning messy books into profit-packed powerhouses.

support@myvbk.com

Up your cleaning game, join over 6000 Cleaning Business Owners most of whom are located here in the United States.

Questions? Feel free to reach out!

Shannon Miller: cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com

Join my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583362158497744
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIjMz_-9YyiFvNVIgb61iYg

To order All-Natural Cleaning Products: www.purevergreen.com
See Shannon's latest courses: www.KleanFreaksUnversity.com