Full Cycle

Catherine Chalpin came to laundry the way a lot of people do these days: she saw something on Instagram, thought it looked manageable, and started doing her homework. What followed was about as fast a path from interest to open doors as you are likely to find. In this episode of Full Cycle, Chalpin shares how she went from watching someone unload quarters into a bucket to running Pop In Laundry in Poughkeepsie, New York, all within roughly a year. The location she landed on was a zombie mat, stripped of equipment after a dryer fire, but with its infrastructure largely intact. Chalpin, who has a background in project management through years of renovating rental properties, saw the bones of the space and knew what to do. She managed the buildout herself, skipping a general contractor, and opened in January 2026. Her day job selling indoor athletic flooring for nonprofits and athletic facilities has shaped how she thinks about community relationships, and that shows in how she runs her store. In her first few months, she organized a clothing drive with the Salvation Army, launched a summer reading program in partnership with the local library, secured a deal to flyer cars in her plaza, and began providing laundry cards to clients of Family Services of Poughkeepsie. A pop-up comedy show at the laundromat was also on the list. She credits a background in marketing and promotions for her instinct to keep things fresh and community-facing. Chalpin and host, Matt DeWolf also get into the practical side of running a new store: the lint trap surprise mid-construction, the value of a good automated floor mopper, the importance of a simple pricing reference sheet for staff, and the challenge of managing time across a full-time job and a new business. Her advice to anyone just getting into the industry is straightforward: read, listen, network, and learn the permit process in your municipality before you need it. Her final answer on what one thing you can do today to be better tomorrow: get familiar with AI. She's been using it to build frameworks, manage scheduling, and handle operational work since before the store opened, and considers it an essential part of how she runs things now. Thanks for giving us a turn.

We are checking in with Tim Johnson and his progress as he builds Operation Laundry. This is the second conversation and a lot has changed since the first one two months ago. Johnson is building Operation Laundry in Holland, Michigan, and the project is moving closer to the finish line. Johnson joins host Matt DeWolf to talk about the current status. The construction is ongoing but the theme of this episode is community engagement. The community response to Operation Laundry has been something Johnson could not have predicted. We discuss a Facebook post asking residents about their experience with local laundromats that drew hundreds of comments and likes. The Holland Sentinel even ran a front-page profile. Local television reached out to cover opening day. People stop by the job site to drop things off. Employees have applied without any job posting ever going up. Johnson shares the story of one morning, a stranger pulled his car up alongside Johnson's to block him in, just so he could ask about washer sizes and the kids zone. Johnson talks through what it takes to build a brand before you've served a single customer, including lighting upgrades to the strip mall, co-marketing relationships with neighboring businesses, and the concept of making the laundromat a third space, somewhere people can gather rather than just a utility stop. He also talks about where the real pressure lives, and it is not in the marketing. It is in the financial decisions that happen every day on a construction site, where every call has consequences and there is no safety net. The conversation also goes into what it takes to sustain yourself through a process like this.  His advice: find something bigger than yourself, whether that is faith, community, or just putting energy into helping someone else. What you give, he says, comes back tenfold.

We are checking in with Tim Johnson and his progress as he builds Operation Laundry. This is the second conversation and a lot has changed since the first one two months ago. Johnson is building Operation Laundry in Holland, Michigan, and the project is moving closer to the finish line. Johnson joins host Matt DeWolf to talk about the current status. The construction is ongoing but the theme of this episode is community engagement. The community response to Operation Laundry has been something Johnson could not have predicted. We discuss a Facebook post asking residents about their experience with local laundromats that drew hundreds of comments and likes. The Holland Sentinel even ran a front-page profile. Local television reached out to cover opening day. People stop by the job site to drop things off. Employees have applied without any job posting ever going up. Johnson shares the story of one morning, a stranger pulled his car up alongside Johnson's to block him in, just so he could ask about washer sizes and the kids zone. Johnson talks through what it takes to build a brand before you've served a single customer, including lighting upgrades to the strip mall, co-marketing relationships with neighboring businesses, and the concept of making the laundromat a third space, somewhere people can gather rather than just a utility stop. He also talks about where the real pressure lives, and it is not in the marketing. It is in the financial decisions that happen every day on a construction site, where every call has consequences and there is no safety net. The conversation also goes into what it takes to sustain yourself through a process like this.  His advice: find something bigger than yourself, whether that is faith, community, or just putting energy into helping someone else. What you give, he says, comes back tenfold.

On this episode of Full Cycle, Matt DeWolf sits down with Tim Johnson, founder of Operation Laundry in Holland, Michigan, for a conversation unlike most on the show. Tim's laundromat is not open yet, and this episode follows his journey in real time, offering a candid look at what it actually takes to build something from scratch in this industry. Tim's background is anything but traditional for a laundromat owner. A former Air Force officer and cybersecurity entrepreneur, he arrived at the Clean Show knowing no one and knowing nothing about laundry. What followed was a series of high-stakes moves: rolling over his entire 401k through a ROBS structure while unemployed, tracking down and purchasing 43 dryers and 42 washers from a shuttered franchisee near Detroit, hauling the equipment across the state in rented box trucks with his neighbor Rob, and securing a commercial space on a seller-financed land contract. He and Rob then spent 50 days demo-ing 5,000 square feet by hand, removing 22 tons of material, and uncovering a hidden tunnel running beneath the entire strip mall. Tim speaks openly about the moments of doubt, the constant outflow of money with no income coming in, and the relationships, with his distributor, his builder, his neighbor, local businesses, and community organizations, that have made the project possible. His advice for listeners is simple: walk or exercise every single day. The mental clarity it provides, he says, is worth more than the time it takes. We’ll be following Tim along his journey as he gets Operation Laundry open for business. Thanks for giving us a turn. Host: Matt DeWolf | Guest: Tim Johnson, Founder, Operation Laundry, Holland, Michigan    

On this episode of Full Cycle, Matt DeWolf sits down with Tim Johnson, founder of Operation Laundry in Holland, Michigan, for a conversation unlike most on the show. Tim's laundromat is not open yet, and this episode follows his journey in real time, offering a candid look at what it actually takes to build something from scratch in this industry. Tim's background is anything but traditional for a laundromat owner. A former Air Force officer and cybersecurity entrepreneur, he arrived at the Clean Show knowing no one and knowing nothing about laundry. What followed was a series of high-stakes moves: rolling over his entire 401k through a ROBS structure while unemployed, tracking down and purchasing 43 dryers and 42 washers from a shuttered franchisee near Detroit, hauling the equipment across the state in rented box trucks with his neighbor Rob, and securing a commercial space on a seller-financed land contract. He and Rob then spent 50 days demo-ing 5,000 square feet by hand, removing 22 tons of material, and uncovering a hidden tunnel running beneath the entire strip mall. Tim speaks openly about the moments of doubt, the constant outflow of money with no income coming in, and the relationships, with his distributor, his builder, his neighbor, local businesses, and community organizations, that have made the project possible. His advice for listeners is simple: walk or exercise every single day. The mental clarity it provides, he says, is worth more than the time it takes. We’ll be following Tim along his journey as he gets Operation Laundry open for business. Thanks for giving us a turn. Host: Matt DeWolf | Guest: Tim Johnson, Founder, Operation Laundry, Holland, Michigan  

In this episode of Full Cycle, Matt DeWolf sits down with Alex Jekowsky, founder and CEO of Cents, to discuss the company's recently closed Series C funding round, The round finalized at $140 million, and it is the largest outside investment the laundry industry has seen. The conversation covers what this capital signals about the state of the industry, how Cents plans to deploy the funds, and what operators at every scale should be paying attention to. Matt and Alex dig into the data Cents has gathered processing over $1.5 billion in annual payments across more than 4,500 locations, and what that data reveals about how the best operators run their businesses. They also discuss the rise of private equity in laundry, why consolidation should not be feared, and how independent owners can use agility as a competitive edge. Thanks for giving us a turn.

In this episode of Full Cycle, Matt DeWolf sits down with Alex Jekowsky, founder and CEO of Cents, to discuss the company's recently closed Series C funding round, The round finalized at $140 million, and it is the largest outside investment the laundry industry has seen. The conversation covers what this capital signals about the state of the industry, how Cents plans to deploy the funds, and what operators at every scale should be paying attention to. Matt and Alex dig into the data Cents has gathered processing over $1.5 billion in annual payments across more than 4,500 locations, and what that data reveals about how the best operators run their businesses. They also discuss the rise of private equity in laundry, why consolidation should not be feared, and how independent owners can use agility as a competitive edge. Thanks for giving us a turn.

Host Matt DeWolf sits down with Brian Henderson and Ian Gollahon, co-owners of Liberty Laundry and founders of Wash Dry Fold POS, to explore what it takes to run and grow a laundry operation. Brian Henderson went from studying chemistry to managing, and eventually purchasing, a chain of Oklahoma laundromats from his family. That journey led to the creation of a point-of-sale system now used by over 1,200 laundromats nationwide. Ian Gollahon shares his transition from sales into the laundry business, and together they cover operational systems, making big changes after a generational transfer, and lessons learned along the way. This conversation gets into valuing a laundromat, financing a major acquisition, building a strong management team, and why documenting your processes matters for long-term success. Thanks for giving us a turn.

Host Matt DeWolf sits down with Brian Henderson and Ian Gollahon, co-owners of Liberty Laundry and founders of Wash Dry Fold POS, to explore what it takes to run and grow a laundry operation. Brian Henderson went from studying chemistry to managing, and eventually purchasing, a chain of Oklahoma laundromats from his family. That journey led to the creation of a point-of-sale system now used by over 1,200 laundromats nationwide. Ian Gollahon shares his transition from sales into the laundry business, and together they cover operational systems, making big changes after a generational transfer, and lessons learned along the way. This conversation gets into valuing a laundromat, financing a major acquisition, building a strong management team, and why documenting your processes matters for long-term success. Thanks for giving us a turn.

In this episode, host Matt DeWolf sits down with Cristina Iacobelli, owner of College Coin Laundry in Oceanside, Calif.. With over 31 years of experience in the laundromat industry, Cristina shares her journey from entering the business as a young mom, to running her laundromat solo for 25 years after buying out her family and navigating life as a single woman business owner. The conversation covers the unique challenges and proud moments that come with being a woman in an industry that is heavily male, but Cristina talks about the importance of hands-on involvement, debunking the myth of passive income, and how building operational confidence and learning the technical side of the business changed her approach.  Cristina offers practical advice for newcomers and industry veterans alike: don't be afraid to dive in, keep learning, and remember that in the end, it's all about serving people. Thanks for giving us a turn.   Host:  Matt Dewolf Guest:  Cristina Iacobelli

In this episode, host Matt DeWolf sits down with Cristina Iacobelli, owner of College Coin Laundry in Oceanside, Calif.. With over 31 years of experience in the laundromat industry, Cristina shares her journey from entering the business as a young mom, to running her laundromat solo for 25 years after buying out her family and navigating life as a single woman business owner. The conversation covers the unique challenges and proud moments that come with being a woman in an industry that is heavily male, but Cristina talks about the importance of hands-on involvement, debunking the myth of passive income, and how building operational confidence and learning the technical side of the business changed her approach.  Cristina offers practical advice for newcomers and industry veterans alike: don't be afraid to dive in, keep learning, and remember that in the end, it's all about serving people. Thanks for giving us a turn.   Host:  Matt Dewolf Guest:  Cristina Iacobelli

Welcome back to Full Cycle, the podcast that explores the entrepreneurial spirit behind the laundry business. In this episode, host Matt DeWolf sits down with Beau Perra, the founder of Lotta's Laundry, a pickup and delivery laundry service on Bainbridge Island. Beau and his wife didn't come from the laundry industry. They brought their branding and digital marketing backgrounds and channeled that experience into building a community-focused service from scratch. Beau shares the path from running a digital marketing agency to folding thousands of pounds of laundry each month out of their home. He talks through the early burnout, refining systems, and growing a team, all while keeping branding and storytelling central to the business.  If you're interested in starting a service without a storefront, scaling operations, or getting a look at how one couple is building something different in this industry, this one is worth your time. Thanks for giving us a turn.

Welcome back to Full Cycle, the podcast that explores the entrepreneurial spirit behind the laundry business. In this episode, host Matt DeWolf sits down with Beau Perra, the founder of Lotta's Laundry, a pickup and delivery laundry service on Bainbridge Island. Beau and his wife didn't come from the laundry industry. They brought their branding and digital marketing backgrounds and channeled that experience into building a community-focused service from scratch. Beau shares the path from running a digital marketing agency to folding thousands of pounds of laundry each month out of their home. He talks through the early burnout, refining systems, and growing a team, all while keeping branding and storytelling central to the business.  If you're interested in starting a service without a storefront, scaling operations, or getting a look at how one couple is building something different in this industry, this one is worth your time. Thanks for giving us a turn.  

In this episode of Full Cycle, host Matt DeWolf and guest Jim Hohnstein take you on a journey through time and transformation. Jim Hohnstein shares the fascinating story of how he turned a historic 1907 bank building in Lafayette, Colorado, into a thriving, modern laundromat with a loyal customer base; some of whom drive over 35 miles just for the experience. Discover how Jim Hohnstein combines old-world charm, cutting-edge technology, and constant innovation, like ozone cleaning systems and a cozy kids’ library, to create an environment that goes far beyond washing clothes. You’ll also hear about the challenges and adventures of repurposing vintage spaces, the importance of customer experience, and why relentless improvement keeps Jim Hohnstein excited for what’s next in the laundry business. Whether you’re drawn in by stories of entrepreneurial spirit, interested in the future of laundromats, or just love a good underdog renovation tale, this episode will give you plenty of real-world insights. Thanks for giving us a turn.   Guest: Jim Hohnstein Lafayette Econ-O-Wash, Lafayette, Colorado

In this episode of Full Cycle, host Matt DeWolf and guest Jim Hohnstein take you on a journey through time and transformation. Jim Hohnstein shares the fascinating story of how he turned a historic 1907 bank building in Lafayette, Colorado, into a thriving, modern laundromat with a loyal customer base; some of whom drive over 35 miles just for the experience. Discover how Jim Hohnstein combines old-world charm, cutting-edge technology, and constant innovation, like ozone cleaning systems and a cozy kids’ library, to create an environment that goes far beyond washing clothes. You’ll also hear about the challenges and adventures of repurposing vintage spaces, the importance of customer experience, and why relentless improvement keeps Jim Hohnstein excited for what’s next in the laundry business. Whether you’re drawn in by stories of entrepreneurial spirit, interested in the future of laundromats, or just love a good underdog renovation tale, this episode will give you plenty of real-world insights. Thanks for giving us a turn.   Guest: Jim Hohnstein Lafayette Econ-O-Wash, Lafayette, Colorado

In today’s special segment, "Laundry Leaders Unfolded," join CLA CEO Brian Wallace as he sits down with Alex Jekowsky, CEO of Cents.  Discover why recurring revenue is the envy of so many businesses, and how memberships -once a novelty - are now becoming an essential part of creating dependable income and deeper customer relationships. Jekowsky breaks down practical examples of successful subscription models, offers actionable tips for laundromat owners, and challenges traditional thinking about self-service innovation. But that’s not all: The conversation also ventures into the world of private equity, exploring why investors are flocking to laundromats, what this means for independent operators, and how these developments could shape the industry by 2026. With insights on technology, loyalty programs, and the importance of running great neighborhood laundromats, this episode is packed with real-world strategies and big-picture trend-spotting.

Welcome to the very first episode of the newly rebranded Full Cycle podcast, formerly the PlanetLaundry podcast! Hosted by Matt DeWolf, this episode sets the stage for a fresh perspective on the laundromat industry—one that digs deep into the stories, insights, and innovations shaping both community and business. Joining Matt DeWolf is Amanda Sidell, owner of The Laundry Basket in Maine. Amanda Sidell brings a unique background as a clinical social worker turned laundromat entrepreneur. In this episode, she shares her personal journey—serendipitously entering the laundry world during the uncertainties of COVID, putting her psychology and human-centered design expertise to work, and transforming customer experiences in her store. The conversation explores the power of empathy and psychological safety in business, how a positive environment boosts customer loyalty, and why investing in your staff pays off. Plus, Amanda Sidell dives into community impact, creative ways to give back, and candid thoughts on overcoming the pressures of keeping up in the industry. If you’re ready to rethink the laundromat experience—from the people who run them to the communities they serve—this episode is the perfect place to start. Let’s go full cycle!

Welcome to the final episode of the PlanetLaundry Podcast, a show that’s been a trusted voice for laundromat owners and industry professionals for years. Today, Matt DeWolf is joined by Brian Wallace, President and CEO of the Coin Laundry Association (CLA), to talk about a big transition: the PlanetLaundry Podcast is evolving into the Full Cycle Podcast, accompanied by a revamped publication and expanded digital resources. In this episode, you’ll hear about why the CLA is making this change now, what the industry’s shifting landscape means for laundromat owners, and how telling deeper, more personal stories will help elevate the community. The conversation is packed with behind-the-scenes insights about the new quarterly cadence of Full Cycle Magazine, expanded content channels, and a renewed focus on the entrepreneurial and often unexpected journeys of its members. As the industry continues to grow and modernize, Matt DeWolf and Brian Wallace discuss how the CLA is doubling down on offering practical advice, multiple perspectives, and innovative content across print, podcast, video, and online platforms. Whether you’re a long-time subscriber, a new member, or just passionate about entrepreneurship, this episode sets the stage for an exciting new era in laundromat industry media.

Welcome to another episode of the PlanetLaundry Podcast! In this episode, host Matt DeWolf sits down with Brian Wallace, CEO of the Coin Laundry Association, to unpack all the excitement and key takeaways from the recent Clean Show - the industry's premier event for laundromat owners, operators, and enthusiasts. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned industry veteran, Matt and Brian cover everything from the surge of new faces and exhibitors, to must-have strategies for turning all that post-show inspiration into lasting business improvements. They dive into the power of peer-to-peer learning, the value of making new connections, and why being present at industry events can totally transform your business. You'll also get a sneak peek at some major changes coming to Planet Laundry’s publications, and plenty of actionable advice to help you grow both personally and professionally in the ever-evolving world of laundry. So settle in and get ready to gain insight into what's driving innovation and community in the laundry industry!

On this episode of PlanetLaundry Podcast  host Matt DeWolf sits down with Saichelle McNeill, founder of WashRoom Laundry in Charlotte, to explore a unique and resilient approach to the laundry industry. Saichelle’s journey is anything but conventional, after facing challenges re-entering the workforce post-incarceration, she carved out her own path by launching a pickup and delivery laundry service. She shares how perseverance, relationship-building, and relentless customer service have helped her turn struggle into opportunity, and how she built a thriving business model based on partnerships and operational efficiency. This conversation is about more than laundry, it’s a candid look at overcoming adversity, finding the right partners, and why showing a little love and delivering exceptional service can set you apart in any industry. Whether you’re interested in alternative business models, the power of persistence, or simply need a dose of motivation, this episode dives deep into the wins, roadblocks, and lessons that can help anyone on their entrepreneurial journey. So tune in as we unpack Saichelle’s story and draw out actionable insights for your business and beyond.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry podcast! In today’s episode, host Matt DeWolf sits down with Marcia Spivey, an inspiring entrepreneur who’s reimagining what a laundromat can mean for the community. Marcia isn’t just opening any laundromat—she’s building the Hub Laundromat Cafe in Detroit, a unique brick-and-mortar space that serves as a trifecta: a place to do laundry, grab great food from local entrepreneurs, and connect with resources and people through workshops and events. From her beginnings in community advocacy to her drive to create catalytic change in her own neighborhood, Marcia shares the story of her journey into the laundry industry. You’ll hear her candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of developing her business from the ground up—navigating real estate, construction, and building community partnerships, all while staying true to her social mission. Dive in as Marcia and Matt discuss the importance of accountability, creating a hub for connection, and never giving up—plus some practical advice for anyone considering a leap into laundromat ownership. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just love to hear about entrepreneurs making a difference, this episode is packed with insights, determination, and hope for Detroit’s future.    

Welcome back to PlanetLaundry, the podcast where we bring you the most insightful stories and game-changing ideas from innovators within the laundry industry. In this episode, host Matt DeWolf sits down with Alex Jekowsky, co-founder and CEO of Cents, to dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence and its rapidly evolving role in laundry operations. Alex shares his journey into the laundromat industry, revealing how a mix of curiosity, entrepreneurial drive, and first-hand experiences led him to build a company devoted to supporting independent operators. Together, Matt and Alex unpack the real meaning behind the AI buzz, distinguishing hype from practical solutions, and explore how technology—when used thoughtfully—can make everyday business tasks easier, more efficient, and even more human. From understanding what AI actually is (and isn’t), to how operators can get educated and start leveraging these tools, this conversation offers practical takeaways for anyone curious about the future of tech in laundry. Whether you’re a longtime owner or just starting out, tune in for actionable strategies, honest advice on choosing vendors, and a fresh perspective on finding balance between innovation and personal connection in today’s digital world.  

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Matt DeWolf chats with store owner Hannah Chapman, who operates WashBar based in Oklahoma. Chapman and her husband got into the industry just 4 years ago in what was a headfirst dive into the deep end of the vended laundry swimming pool. They quickly grew from one location to four and are looking at opportunities. But the biggest opportunity for Hannah is around the way they can impact the people in their community and in their business. She believes strongly in the power of people, and the value that brings to your organization. Hannah and her husband are eager to help educate and give back to the industry, because they were fortunate enough to benefit from others’ generosity when it comes to learning. The pair worked for free at a laundromat for several months prior to owning their own location and said that experience was invaluable. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of CLA Business Mastercard.  

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with store owner Jake Barone, who operates Laundry House in New York City. Barone is an entrepreneur, a real estate and construction expert, and a growth strategist with a passion for developing and scaling ventures at the intersection of real estate, construction, and business. Jake’s entrepreneurial journey began early. By 16, he was running a successful e-commerce business. At 18, he became New York State’s youngest real estate agent. And, by 19, he launched Gateway Builders, a construction firm that ranked No. 170 on the Inc. 5000 list for its rapid growth. Over the next seven years, Jake grew Gateway into a 40-employee company, delivering more than one million square feet of Class A commercial space for REITs, investment firms, and corporate clients in New York City. Recognizing shifts in the market during the COVID-19 era, Jake pivoted toward laundromats – founding Laundry House, a high-end, data-driven laundromat brand designed to set a new industry standard. Under Jake’s leadership, Laundry House achieved 340 percent revenue growth in just 18 months, establishing itself as a standout brand in the New York City market. Beyond Laundry House, Barone is focused on strategic partnerships and acquisitions, collaborating with laundromat operators to scale their businesses using branding, operational efficiencies, and advanced marketing technology. His expertise in real estate, construction, and business scaling position him as a knowledgeable and experienced professional in the industry. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with laundry owner Tyler Purcell, who operates multiple laundromats within the Cincinnati market. Tyler is the co-owner of four, family-operated laundry locations, which are all branded as The Laundry Spot. He’s also a wealth advisor who has been in the financial services industry for more than a decade. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com.

In this episode, Alex Jekowsky, CEO & Co-Founder of Cents, and Brian Wallace, CLA President & CEO, discuss the ways innovative technologies from other industries can be applied to laundry, such as upselling through add-ons and gamification. Alex shares the value of branding, advice for customer acquisition and ways to make your store stand out from competitors.   This edition of the Laundry Leaders Unfolded podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of our Elite Strategic Corporate Ally, Cents.

Mike Schoeb, CEO of Alliance Laundry Systems, shares what has changed at Alliance in his 17 years and their accomplishments, such as growth outside the U.S., especially in Asia, South America and the Middle East. Mike and Brian discuss trends, such as reinvestment in the industry, attraction of a different type of investor, consolidation of the distribution market, the franchise model and advocacy efforts. Mike also previewed what we can expect from Alliance between now and the Clean Show.   This edition of the Laundry Leaders Unfolded podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of our Elite Strategic Corporate Ally, Alliance Laundry Systems.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with veteran laundry owner Travis Reed, who operates multiple laundromats throughout Indiana. Reed grew up in the business – with his parents purchasing their first laundromat in 1985, right after Travis was born. He worked with his dad, Bryan, in the family business and then purchased his first laundromat in 2003, just four months after graduating from high school. Today, Travis owns six laundry locations north of Indianapolis, with a seventh on the way this spring. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Rob Maes, the owner of Express Laundry Centers, a four-store chain in the Houston area. In 2006, after more than 20 years in corporate America, Maes wanted to start his own business and decided on the laundromat industry after attending a CLA seminar. Today, four stores later, Rob serves on the CLA Board of Directors – and will ascend to the chairmanship in January. Maes shares his vision for CLA and its Board, as well as discussing some of the future challenges facing the organization and dispelling a few misconceptions about the CLA Board. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cents.

In this episode, CLA President and CEO Brian Wallace sits down with Joel Jorgensen, Vice President of Sales at Girbau North American, to discuss trends in the laundry industry. Jorgensen joined Continental in 1997 as regional sales manager and later served as director of sales and marketing before taking on his current role in 2006. Jorgensen has guided Girbau North America’s sales, marketing and service operations during his 25+ year career.   Joel was an early proponent of encouraging laundromat owners to explore new markets that could be served out of the traditional laundromat setting—WDF, delivery and commercial accounts. He shares how their customers are joining one of the largest trends in laundry and how they are using some of the innovative tools out there to grow their business. Joel also shares his perspective on some of the newer trends affecting the industry, such as consolidation of distributors and franchise models.   This edition of the Laundry Leadership Conversations podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of our Elite Strategic Corporate Ally, Girbau North America.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with John MacKrell, founder and chief executive officer of HappyNest, a national laundry pickup-and-delivery service brand. MacKrell, a former investment banker and active duty Army officer, started in the laundromat industry in 2003, after purchasing his first store in East Greenwich, R.I. Over the next 15 years, he built or purchased another five laundromats. However, frustration with the low usage of his laundry equipment during the slower midweek periods prompted him to begin offering residential laundry pickup-and-delivery services throughout Rhode Island and eastern Massachusetts. As his delivery business grew, he developed software to manage the process. Starting in 2018, MacKrell started licensing his enterprise-level software as a white label SaaS to independent laundromat owners. Then, in 2020, he decided to pivot away from licensing software to partnering with quality operators to create the national brand, HappyNest. Today, HappyNest has 130 partners in 35 states. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of HappyNest.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Jason Dodge, the owner of Quick Wash Laundromats, a three-store chain in Milwaukee, Wis. In addition, Jason has been active with CLA’s LaundryCares Foundation – hosting a couple of Free Laundry & Literacy Day events at his laundromats earlier this year. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cents.  

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with John Buni and David Griffith-Jones, co-founders of CleanCloud, which is a leading point-of-sale and pickup-and-delivery software and management system built specifically for the laundry industry. Buni and Griffith-Jones reflect on CleanCloud’s 10 years in business, along with some recent company milestones – as well as discussing how the business has evolved over the years, where the greatest opportunities lie for future laundromat success, best practices for leveraging technology within laundry operations, and what has them most excited about the laundry industry going forward. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of CleanCloud.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Jamie Sewell, the owner of Clean Vibes Laundry Company in Tampa, Fla. Jamie has more than a decade of experience in the commercial laundry industry and has worked with hundreds of laundromat owners worldwide. She led marketing for CLA, was a founding member and CMO of the first cashless laundromat concept, and oversaw technology worldwide at Alliance Laundry Systems. Jamie also is a coach, mentor, and strong advocate for women entrepreneurs in the laundry industry. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cents.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the official publication of CLA. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with multi-store operator Omer Khan, co-owner of Skyline Laundromats, a four-store chain in the Atlanta metro area. Khan has partnered with his father, Abdul, who has been in the laundry business for 25 years. In addition, Omer has been active within his community through the LaundryCares Foundation, and recently presented on laundry operations a CLA’s Excellence in Laundry Conference in Palm Beach, Fla. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cents.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Nishant Jain and Thibault Corens, co-founders of Presso, which is a venture-backed company that has been unveiling new garment-care technology for today’s laundromat owners. Jain and Corens share the origins of their company and what inspired them to create Presso – as well as discussing the specific technology that sets them apart from traditional garment-care methods, the challenges of scaling their operations, what they view as the three pillars of successful laundromat ownership, and their mission to “redefine the emotional connection people have with their clothing.” We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Steve Marcionetti, president of Card Concepts Inc. With 25 years in the vended laundry industry, Steve has pioneered products that have helped transition laundry payment beyond the quarter – elevating profitability for hundreds of laundromat owners. Steve also is a former CLA Board member and leads a company that supports more than 3,000 laundromats nationwide with innovative payment and business management solutions. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Card Concepts Inc.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with multi-store owner Peter Mayberry, who operates the growing 10-laundromat Anytime Laundry chain, headquartered in Omaha, Neb. Peter shares what to look for in a laundry location, the first couple of moves he always makes after acquiring an existing store, what most laundromat owners typically get wrong, the key to becoming a successful entrepreneur, and much more. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cents.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Jennifer Whitney, vice president of business development for Eastern Funding LLC, based in New York City. Whitney has been involved in the laundry industry for 25 years – during which she’s worked with those involved at every level of every type of a laundromat project imaginable. During her years in the laundry business, Jennifer has been a speaker at industry events, an author in PlanetLaundry magazine, and a LaundryCares volunteer. She is currently on the task force for CLA’s Women’s Laundry Network and sits on a committee to develop a mentorship program for women in the industry. In addition, she recently was appointed to CLA’s Board of Directors. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Sharon Brinks, the owner of The Laundry Station, a laundromat based in Wichita, Kan. – as well as Laundry Express, which is her company’s separate pickup-and-delivery operation. In 2024, Sharon is celebrating 10 years in the laundromat industry – prior to which she spent more than 20 years as an IT professional, and then later became a real estate salesperson and broker. Sharon shares her thoughts on building The Laundry Station from the ground up, launching her pickup-and-delivery service during the height of the pandemic, developing a winning team of laundry employees, and much more. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cents.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Mark Csordos, the owner of the Washing Well laundromat in Matawan, N.J. Mark is a longtime entrepreneur who has owned a number of businesses through the years – including a mystery shopper business, which featured such clients as Pizza Hut, Manhattan Bagel, the New Jersey State Lottery, and a large regional grocery chain, among others.  In addition, Mark is the author of the book, “Business Lessons for Entrepreneurs: 35 Things I Learned Before the Age of 30.” And he’s currently the host of his own YouTube channel. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Ryan Spicer, a multi-store operator with locations in the New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania markets. Spicer grew up in his family’s bicycle business and also spent 13 years in the nightclub industry, before getting into the laundromat business. Additionally, he is one of the newest members to the Coin Laundry Association’s Board of Directors. Ryan discusses growing up in an entrepreneurial family, what attracted him to the laundry industry, and how to source new locations and successfully scale a laundromat business – as well as sharing his thoughts on the importance of the LaundryCares Foundation. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Kent Wales from Spokane, Wash. He and his wife, Monica, are the owners of Happy Laundry & Dry Cleaning – a company that specializes in commercial laundry, personal laundry, and drycleaning services. Wales also is an Eagle Scout with a lifelong passion for leadership. What’s more, he purchased his first business after playing Robert Kiyosaki’s board game, “Cashflow” – where he frequently won the game by purchasing “coin-operated businesses.” Interestingly, Kent’s first corporate job was with Boeing as an industrial engineer. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Speed Queen.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Amy Martinez-Monfort, founder and CEO of Tampa Laundry Company. Amy is a Florida native who attended Florida State University for her undergraduate degree and the University of Florida for law school. She practiced law with Carlton Fields in Tampa before beginning a career in sales and marketing with Eli Lilly. In 2015, Amy started Tampa Laundry Company, a full-service laundry and linen company. And, three years later, the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce named Tampa Laundry Company its Small Business of the Year. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Speed Queen.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Alaa Elbanna, co-owner of Bubbles Are Us, a five-store chain in the New York/New Jersey area – in which he has been a partner with his father for the last 20 years. In addition, Alaa also sits on the Board of Directors for the LaundryCares Foundation. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com/. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Speed Queen.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman interviews Joe Dan Reed, the owner of the Splash ’Em Out laundromat chain in Lexington, Ky. Splash ’Em Out is a nine-store operation, serving the greater Lexington area, which also features a robust wash-dry-fold and pickup-and-delivery business. Reed shares his thoughts on the importance of branding, what he looks for in a winning laundromat location, how pickup and delivery is changing the game, the keys to success in today’s laundry business, and much more. We hope you enjoy this conversation, and we invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Ross Dodds, co-owner of Luxe Laundries, a 13-store laundromat chain serving the greater Los Angeles area. In addition, Luxe is opening a new 6,000-square-foot facility dedicated to its pickup-and-delivery business – in essence tripling the company’s wash capacity for PUD. Ross discusses his company’s rapid growth and the inevitable pain points that have gone along with it – as well as sharing his thoughts on the best opportunities for laundry operators in the coming years, his favorite aspect of store ownership, and the value of social media outreach to today’s businesses. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com. This edition of the PlanetLaundry Podcast has been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Speed Queen.

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman interviews Coin Laundry Association President and CEO Brian Wallace, who has served laundry operators for more than 30 years through his work at the CLA. The two discuss some of the pending legislation and government regulations that could impact laundromat owners in the future. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this episode, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman interviews Craig Dakauskas, senior vice president of Alliance Laundry Systems. This is Craig’s second stint with Alliance. He served as the company’s national sales manager from 2002-2007. Craig is known as an industry leader, as well as a highly successful equipment distributor. Prior to rejoining Alliance, he was the president and CEO of CLEC Distribution, LLC, which was acquired by Alliance in 2019. Craig prefers a practical approach to leadership with a strong focus on execution. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com

Welcome to the PlanetLaundry Podcast – brought to you by PlanetLaundry, the magazine of the Coin Laundry Association. In this special episode, recorded in San Diego at CLA’s 2023 Excellence in Laundry Conference, PlanetLaundry Editor Bob Nieman chats with Waleed Cope, the owner and operator of The Soap Box – laundry, drycleaning and sneaker-cleaning enterprise, based in Brooklyn, N.Y. We hope you enjoy this conversation. We invite you to listen to more PlanetLaundry Podcasts at https://planetlaundry.podbean.com