From TV Producer to CEO: Building a Business That Actually Matters with Shari Cedar

In this episode of Built for This, Carly Pepin sits down with Shari Cedar, CEO and co-owner of AK Building Services, to explore what it really takes to build and scale a people-driven business over the long term. Shari shares her unconventional journey from a successful career in television production to co-building a commercial cleaning company alongside her husband. What began as a gradual transition evolved into a 25-year leadership journey, growing a company that now supports a team of hundreds in a demanding and highly regulated industry. The conversation unpacks the realities of scaling beyond the early stages of business. Shari explains how the discipline of production, preparation, execution, and continuous refinement, became the foundation for building strong operational systems and sustainable growth. Carly and Shari also explore the challenges of maintaining culture across a distributed, night-shift workforce, and why connection must be created intentionally through communication, leadership presence, and consistent human interaction. This episode offers a grounded perspective on leadership, showing that real growth is not just about expanding revenue or headcount. It is about building systems that support scale, developing people who can lead independently, and creating a business that can thrive beyond its founders.   Key Themes: Systems Before Scale: Why strong processes and infrastructure are essential for sustainable growth. Intentional Culture: How to build connection and belonging across dispersed teams. Leadership Through Trust: Why letting go and empowering others is critical to long-term success.   Memorable Quotes: “If you have your hands on everything, then you’re doing nothing.” “We are a partner, not a vendor.” “Growth is great, but it’s a double-edged sword.”   About Shari Cedar: Shari Cedar is the CEO and Co-Owner of AK Building Services, a leading family-owned commercial janitorial company based in Florida. With more than 25 years of experience, she has built her career around leadership, operational excellence, and creating opportunities for her team. Before entering the commercial cleaning industry, Shari worked in television production, an experience that shaped her approach to leadership and execution. Today, she is actively involved in industry and community organizations, including BOMA, CREW Network, and the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, while also serving on multiple nonprofit and advisory boards. A dedicated leader and working mother of two, Shari is passionate about building businesses that create meaningful impact for both people and the communities they serve.   Connect with Shari Cedar: http://www.akbuildingservices.com