Episode 1287 – How James Built a Cleaning Biz That Works Without Him Part 2
In this episode of the Grow My Cleaning Company podcast, Mike Campion chats with James Castek about his journey from a failed real estate venture to building a thriving residential cleaning business. James shares how he turned coaching setbacks into success, growing his cleaning company to over $30K in monthly recurring revenue. Learn how the right business model, smart systems, and solid hiring transformed his stress-filled 50-hour weeks into a profitable, part-time lifestyle. If you’re looking for real-world cleaning business tips, recurring income strategies, or inspiration from a fellow cleaning entrepreneur, this episode is for you. Discover how to scale your cleaning business and finally work less while earning more.
How James Turned Coaching Confusion into Recurring Revenue Gold
James Castek didn’t start out in cleaning. He began in real estate, where every dollar felt like a gamble. After investing nearly $100,000 in coaching that didn’t deliver the ROI he hoped for, James realized the issue wasn’t the coach—it was the industry. He wanted a business where he could add value, not just his wallet. That “aha” moment led him to residential cleaning, and everything changed.
Cleaning Services That Create Recurring Revenue (and Less Stress)
James knew he needed more than just quick wins—he needed stability. Within months of switching to cleaning, he landed contracts worth $1,500/month before lunch. That’s nearly $20K per year in recurring revenue—hello, passive income! With his systems dialed in, he jumped from $19K/month to $32K/month in just six months. Cleaning may not be sexy, but it’s smart—especially if you’re building recurring revenue and not chasing one-time gigs.
Why James Took Another Risk—And It Paid Off Big
After a rough experience in real estate, James was gun-shy about coaching. But he didn’t let fear stop him. He found the right coach (hey, Mike Campion!) and the right fit—a coaching program tailored to cleaning business owners. Even though he had to break up the payments to afford it, James committed. The result? Systems that run like a dream, a happy team of cleaners, and enough income to hit the pool with his kids on a Tuesday afternoon.
Work Less, Make More Isn’t a Myth
James went from working 50+ hours a week and worrying nonstop—to cutting his hours way down and finally breathing easy. He even took time off for his uncle’s funeral and the business didn’t skip a beat. His team handled 10 cleans in one day without him lifting a finger. That’s the power of great hiring and solid systems. The cleaning business, once seen as “low-tier,” became the key to the lifestyle he always wanted.
Cleaning Business Tips from a Guy Who’s Been There
James’ advice? Don’t quit. Even when things get tough, remember why you started. Stay focused on helping people, and the money will follow. If you’re stuck, get help. If you’re scared, take action anyway. And above all, keep showing up. Like Mike says, “If you want something different, go get it.” The opportunity is out there—just like the dirt on your clients’ floors.