Talking Clean in a Dirty World

Inside the Future of Cleaning Equipment from IDM * GEM Showcases 2026

Ever see someone toss a floor scrubber down the stairs, then watch it snap back together like a Lego and keep on cleaning? Turns out, there’s a whole new breed of rugged cleaning tech out there—and it’s not just about durability.
What if the secret to spotless, odor-free restrooms and long-lasting LV floors was ditching the mop altogether… and upgrading to something smarter? There’s a reason one school district banned mops (except for emergencies) and hasn’t looked back in five years.
But here’s the kicker: it’s not just about how tough your machines are—it’s about how some “standard” features are quietly rewriting the rules for cleaning efficiency and floor warranties. Curious what you might be missing out on?
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover how rugged floor cleaning machines can boost your cleaning efficiency while standing up to the toughest environments.
Explore the power of IDM intelligent design manufacturing in transforming cleaning tools for smarter, longer-lasting performance.
Upgrade your cleaning equipment standards to unlock new levels of productivity and floor care that save time and money.
Master effective restroom cleaning solutions that enhance hygiene without wasting resources or effort.
Learn smart maintenance techniques for LVT and LVP floors that extend their life and keep them looking great day after day.
Our special guest is Darryel Picou Darryel Picou stands out in the cleaning world for his practical approach and deep industry know-how. As a key leader at IDM, he’s focused on cutting through the clutter and making floor cleaning machines that are as tough as they are simple to use.
Darryel’s not interested in bells and whistles that just add confusion—he’s all about solutions that make sense for real facility managers and their teams. He has a knack for translating complex cleaning problems into straightforward answers, thanks to IDM’s decades-long roots in the field. Darryel’s hands-on style and genuine understanding of what custodians and managers face every day have helped IDM earn trust and recognition from both users and distributors.
If anyone knows how to boost efficiency, extend floor life, and take the stress out of restroom and floor care, it’s Darryel.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:20 - IDM’s Rugged Floor Cleaning Machines and Industry Legacy
00:02:17 - IDM’s User-Focused Design Philosophy and Standard Upgrades
00:05:00 - Award-Winning Machines and Versatility for Various Facilities
00:06:48 - Supply Chain Stability and Exceptional Warranty Support
00:08:51 - Partnership with Mannington Floors and Upcoming Vendor Showcases
00:14:05 - Registration and Educational Session Overview
00:14:16 - Hands-On Machine Demonstrations and Lunch Arrangements
00:14:33 - Key Takeaway for End Users on Floor and Restroom Maintenance
00:15:11 - Closing Remarks and Future Event Anticipation
00:15:28 - Podcast Conclusion with Health and Positivity Reminder
https://gemsupply.net
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/GemSupply/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/gemsupplyco
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/gemsupplyco...
 

Proven Strategies for Healthier, Safer Environments with Claudia Goddiess

What if the biggest threat to your cleaning business wasn’t a missed spot or a broken machine—but something hidden right under your nose every day?
In this episode, Claudia and Dave spill the real behind-the-scenes challenges that even seasoned pros rarely talk about.
From the unexpected chaos of a roof leak to why “clean” doesn’t always smell the way you think, and the surprising legal risks lurking in your janitor’s closet, you’ll hear truths that might just change the way you run your operation.
But here’s the kicker: there’s one simple, overlooked strategy that could save you more than just money.
Wondering what it is?
Stick around and get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about the cleaning game…
 
Email for Claudia: cgoddiess@apex-building-services.com
Contact Claudia on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-cardona-apex/
 
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Handling Roof Leaks and Water Remediation in Commercial Cleaning00:04:00 - Challenges and Solutions for Large-Scale Water Damage Cleanup00:07:00 - Importance of Certified Water Restoration Training and Partnerships00:09:00 - Empowering Minority and Women-Owned Businesses in Cleaning Industry00:12:00 - Running a Cleaning Business Beyond Cleaning Tasks00:15:14 - Evaluating Equipment Value: Cost vs. Longevity in Cleaning Machines00:17:44 - Transitioning to Lithium Batteries for Cleaning Equipment Efficiency00:19:19 - Industry Resistance to Change and Embracing Modern Cleaning Tools00:24:22 - Prioritizing Worker Safety and Consistency in Cleaning Operations00:27:57 - Chemical Safety Protocols and Worker Rights in Janitorial Services00:29:19 - Employee Discipline and Liability in Cleaning Services00:31:24 - Clean Room Protocols and Liability Clarifications00:34:03 - Seasonal Cleaning Challenges and School Sanitation00:38:46 - Proper Cleaning Techniques and Avoiding Cross-Contamination00:41:47 - Entrepreneurial Responsibilities and Training in the Cleaning Industry00:43:48 - Planning Winter Travel and Family Visits00:44:33 - Recent Trip Highlights: Quick Visit to Colombia00:45:39 - Financial Realities of Living Abroad00:46:08 - Closing Thoughts and Listener Engagement00:47:34 - Podcast Wrap-Up and Motivational Reminder

Exclusive Triple S Showcases and the Rise of Independent Cleaning Distributors with Dan Wagner

Ever wondered what really happens when you give cleaning pros more than just a quick handshake with vendors?
At these 2026 Triple S showcases, they're flipping the script—one vendor, one focus, and a real chance to dig into the nuts and bolts of how cleaning actually transforms public health (and, honestly, bottom lines).
But here's the kicker: you'll hear about the surprising numbers behind why clean isn't just clean—it's a legit investment.
There’s a story Dan shares that totally changes how you’ll look at your role in this industry—and it’s not what you’d expect. Ready to see what most folks still miss about the real value of clean?
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover how the Triple S Cleaning Industry Showcases 2026 will unveil cutting-edge innovations that can transform your cleaning business.
Understand the powerful impact professional cleaning practices have on public health and why it matters more than ever.
Explore the benefits of vendor-exclusive showcases and how they can give you an edge in sourcing top-tier cleaning products.
Gain insights from educational seminars designed to boost your skills and keep you ahead in the fast-evolving cleaning industry.
Learn the crucial role independent cleaning product distributors play in delivering quality, variety, and support to your business.
You can find the locations and dates on the front page of https://gemsupply.net/
 
Our special guest is Dan Wagner.
Dan Wagner has nearly 30 years of experience in the cleaning industry, with expertise spanning public health, facility management, and distributor relations. He began his career at ISSA, a leading global cleaning industry association, before joining Triple S in 2017.
At Triple S, Dan supports a national network of more than 100 independent cleaning product distributors, focusing on practical solutions and efficient operations for a wide range of facilities.
He is recognized for his work in promoting the value of cleaning as an investment and for using measurable data to highlight its positive impact on business outcomes, such as reduced absenteeism and improved facility satisfaction.
Dan is also active in industry education, regularly leading seminars and discussions that help cleaning professionals stay up to date on best practices and the latest innovations.
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to Triple S Vendor Showcases and Industry Appreciation 00:02:00 - Unique Format of Triple S Vendor Showcases in 2026 00:04:00 - The Power of Clean – Educational Seminar Focus 00:07:00 - Evolution of Cleaning Industry Awareness Post-Pandemic 00:11:00 - Understanding Triple S and Its Role in Supporting Independent Distributors 00:16:51 - Importance of Effective Building Cleaning Across Locations 00:17:18 - A Lighthearted Moment with Host and Guest 00:17:27 - Accessing Gym Supply Resources and Dates 00:17:49 - Availability of Podcast and Show Notes Information 00:18:08 - Closing Remarks and Positive Listener Encouragement

Christina Freer * Beyond Mops & Buckets is the Power of Tailored Training & Tech

You’ve been told that if you hand your team a checklist and tell them to “be consistent,” your cleaning business will start delivering flawless, reliable service every time.
But all that’s gotten you is a pile of missed details, frustrated clients, and a growing sense that you’re stuck putting out fires instead of building trust.
Let’s get real: there’s a better way to create consistency and keep clients happy.
Ready to find out what works?
Christina Freer is the kind of entrepreneur who knows what it means to start at the bottom and build something real.
Raised in a small Idaho town, she jumped into the commercial cleaning industry with just a secondhand vacuum and a determination to make things work—literally using whatever tools she could find.
Christina’s background in real estate gave her a unique edge, helping her understand the true needs of property managers and business clients.
Over the years, she’s developed a reputation for building training programs that make consistency and reliability a part of her team’s DNA.
Christina’s approach is practical and people-focused, always aiming to solve problems for clients and keep communication open.
Her journey and philosophy show that you don’t need fancy beginnings to create a cleaning business that stands out—you need a clear vision, hard work, and a dedication to quality service.
Reach out to Christina via email here: christina@rcfcommercialcleaning.com
Connect with Christina on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinafreer/
Visit RCF Commercial Cleaning here: http://www.rcfcommercialcleaning.com/
 
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to Beyond Clean Podcast and Guest Background00:06:00 - Mentorship and Understanding Client Needs in Commercial Cleaning00:08:30 - Consistency and Reliability as Foundations of Cleaning Success00:11:00 - Structured Training and Service Scheduling for Effective Janitorial Operations00:13:00 - Advanced Team Cleaning Model and Client Accountability00:14:09 - Effective Inspection and Validation Processes in Cleaning Services00:17:01 - Modern Cleaning Equipment and Consistency in Service Delivery00:20:33 - Post-COVID Cleaning Priorities: Consistency Over Price00:23:33 - Customized Supplies and Equipment for Optimal Cleaning Results00:24:45 - Leveraging Technology and Training Innovations for Cleaner Onboarding00:27:43 - Innovative Pre-Job Skills Assessment Using 3D Scans00:30:31 - Building Team Connection Through Personal Engagement00:33:57 - Leveraging Personality Assessments to Strengthen Leadership00:35:32 - Company Growth and Rigorous Hiring Practices00:38:46 - Cultivating a Fun and Positive Company Culture00:40:01 - Hilarious and Challenging Moments in Commercial Cleaning00:41:23 - Family Involvement and Support Behind RCF Commercial Cleaning00:43:08 - Multi-Generational Workforce and Cleaning Industry Legacy00:45:24 - Valuable Advice to Younger Self and Aspiring Entrepreneurs00:46:52 - Personal Life and Future Plans Beyond Business

Jeff Carmon * Customer Satisfaction Drives Commercial Cleaning Profits

Jeff Carmon, CBSE - Manager, Member Services, Elite BSC, has over 40 years of experience in various industries, including 10 years with Frantz Building Services, and is now with Elite BSC.
Jeff's professional experience spans multiple industries, including natural gas, ministry, healthcare management, and commercial cleaning.
He has spent the past decade specializing in business development within the janitorial sector, notably through his leadership role at Elite BSC, a mastermind group dedicated to supporting and connecting commercial cleaning companies.
Jeff’s background covers a broad range of operational and growth-focused roles, making him well-versed in issues like employee retention, customer satisfaction, and strategic expansion.
His experience includes overseeing business operations, implementing training programs, and consulting on best practices for growth.
Jeff Carmon’s practical knowledge and industry insight provide a strong foundation for addressing the unique challenges faced by commercial cleaning businesses.
Reach out to Jeff via email: jeff@elitebsc.com
or on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-carmon-8b586041/
or Elite BSC
 
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Beyond Clean with Ace and Podcast Reach00:03:10 - Guest Introduction: Jeff Carmon’s Diverse Career Journey00:07:14 - Collaboration Over Competition in Janitorial Services00:08:31 - Common Industry Challenges: Turnover and Customer Issues00:10:02 - Strategic Growth and Market Understanding for Janitorial Companies00:13:43 - Defining Business Growth Stages and the Importance of Strategic Planning00:17:00 - Identifying Ideal Customers and Leveraging Outside Expertise for Growth00:19:23 - Overcoming Industry Challenges Through Employee Training and Certification00:22:50 - Customer Satisfaction as the Cornerstone of Sustainable Business Growth00:25:29 - Innovating Cleaning Practices and Shifting Industry Narratives Post-COVID00:27:36 - Emphasizing Health-Focused Cleaning for Workplace Wellbeing00:30:02 - Selling Health Prevention Services in the Janitorial Industry00:31:27 - Preparing Facilities for Future Pandemics with Proactive Cleaning00:34:30 - Rethinking Customer Expectations and Pricing in Cleaning Services00:39:52 - Growth Opportunities Through Health and Safety Messaging in the Cleaning Industry00:41:40 - Planning an Engaging Leadership Conference in Louisville, Kentucky00:44:00 - The Power of Giving and Growing at Industry Conferences00:45:37 - Continuous Learning and Team Development in Building Services00:47:27 - Coaching Wisdom: Serving Others as the Core of Business Success00:48:43 - Personal Reflections and Travel Aspirations Beyond the Industry

92% of Home Cleaning Leads Start With Google * Gabe Bustos

Ever heard these myths about getting leads for your home cleaning business?
Myth #1: You need to be everywhere on social media to get found.
Myth #2: Only big cleaning companies can compete on Google.
Myth #3: Google reviews don’t really matter unless you have hundreds.
I’m about to spill the truth behind these beliefs—and trust me, it’s not what you think.
Stick around, because I’ll break down what really works (and what’s just hype)!
 
Gabe Bustos is one of the Founders of Hector Home Services Marketing, a no-BS lead generation agency built to help home service businesses book more jobs, take control of their marketing, and grow with confidence. 
Before starting Hector, Gabe had run three businesses of his own and watched them all fail for one common reason: poor marketing. You can have great services, but if you can’t reliably generate sales, it’s over. That lesson lit a fire, and he became obsessed with mastering digital marketing strategies that deliver consistent ROI.
Today, Gabe and the Hector team help home service contractors grow through local SEO and digital advertising, bringing in the highest-quality leads at the lowest possible cost — so they can get back to doing what they do best: providing amazing service and keeping local communities safe and happy.
Visit Hector Home Services Marketing here.
Email for Gabe: gabe@hectorhomeservicesmarketing.com
 
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to Beyond Clean with Ace and Guest Gabe Bustos00:02:40 - Gabe Bustos Explains Marketing Challenges for Home Cleaning Businesses00:07:00 - The Importance of Google Business Profile for Local Cleaning Companies00:10:15 - Prioritizing Google Over Social Media for Cleaning Business Marketing00:11:45 - How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile for Maximum Visibility00:12:52 - Understanding Keywords and Key Phrases for Local SEO00:15:22 - Prioritizing Location Over General Educational Content00:18:00 - Leveraging AI Tools Like ChatGPT for SEO Optimization00:22:11 - Building a Strong Foundation with a Complete Google Business Profile00:23:31 - The Critical Role of Business Location in Local SEO Success00:26:09 - The Critical Role of Google Reviews in Local Business Visibility00:28:18 - Best Practices for Responding to Positive and Negative Reviews00:33:20 - Effective Strategies to Collect Google Reviews On the Spot00:36:10 - Establishing a Strong Google Business Profile Before Paid Marketing00:38:15 - Overcoming the Fear of Asking for Reviews Through Customer Engagement00:38:57 - Effective Strategies for Encouraging Customer Reviews00:41:30 - The Critical Role of Reviews and Team Incentives00:42:11 - Leveraging Local Services Ads for Risk-Free Lead Generation00:44:11 - Essential Online Foundations: Profiles, Reviews, and Ads Before Expanding00:45:16 - When to Scale Marketing Efforts and Seek Expert Help00:51:40 - Gabe Bustos Announces Upcoming Wedding and Family Plans00:52:19 - Continuing the Conversation on Marketing Investment Strategies00:52:56 - Integrating Home Cleaning Services with Expert Marketing Advice00:53:38 - Planning Future Podcast Episodes and Expanding Topics00:54:20 - Closing Thoughts on Personal Growth and Positive Journeys

The Hidden Power of Employee Satisfaction in Scaling Your Cleaning Business with Charlie Ramshaw & Rob Thomas

If you're feeling frustrated that despite offering competitive pay and running endless hiring ads, your best cleaners keep leaving and clients are slow to trust your team, then you are not alone!
If you've put in long hours training new hires, only to watch them walk out the door before they ever become part of the “family,” then you are not alone!
Charlie Ramshaw is the owner of RamClean, a business he launched from his parents’ basement back in 2013.
With a knack for turning challenging moments into opportunities, Charlie grew his company from just four employees to a team of 375 spread across five states, pushing close to $15 million in revenue.
He has weathered significant industry changes, including the rollercoaster of the COVID era, by staying adaptable and maintaining a strong focus on people. Charlie’s experience scaling a cleaning company gives him firsthand insight into building and leading a workforce that sticks around—he knows the value of treating employees well. He understands the day-to-day realities cleaning business owners face.
His journey demonstrates that hard work, empathy, and a willingness to take calculated risks can truly pay off in this industry.
Visit RamClean here
Connect with Charlie Ramshaw on LinkedIn
Connect with Rob Thomas on LinkedIn
Read the CleanLink Article on Restrooms
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Charlie Ramshaw’s Entrepreneurial Journey from Basement Startup to Cleaning Industry Growth00:04:34 - Navigating Growth and Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic00:06:42 - Rob Thomas’s Role in Driving Marketing and Lead Generation at Ram Clean00:09:26 - Overcoming Scaling Challenges and Leadership Lessons in Cleaning Services00:11:06 - Integrating Marketing, Sales, and Operations for Sustainable Business Success00:13:33 - Building Long-Term Cleaning Service Partnerships with Customer-Centric Solutions00:14:22 - The Impact of Clean Restrooms on Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty00:17:10 - The Value of W2 Employees Over Subcontractors in Cleaning Services00:21:13 - Authentic Marketing Through Real Photos and Transparent Brand Storytelling00:25:07 - Strategic Growth and Technology Integration in Multi-State Cleaning Operations00:27:56 - Leveraging Real-Time Data and Scaling Janitorial Services00:28:44 - Managing Operations and Human Challenges in Multi-State Cleaning Businesses00:30:19 - Tackling High Employee Turnover in the Cleaning Industry00:33:13 - The Impact of Certification and Training on Hiring Quality Cleaners00:38:04 - Elevating the Janitorial Trade Through Competitive Pay and Industry Partnerships00:40:32 - Managing Customer Expectations and Business Growth in Facility Services00:42:40 - Simplifying Business Operations through Specialization and Leadership00:47:35 - Navigating Post-Covid Industry Changes and Adapting to Market Challenges00:48:49 - Proven Strategies for Long-Term Lead Generation and Customer Retention00:52:20 - Personal Goals and Balancing Business Growth with Life Aspirations00:54:13 - Personal Plans and Milestones with Charlie Ramshaw, Rob Thomas, and Dave Thompson00:54:27 - Podcast Follow-Up and Visual Updates from Guests00:54:34 - Reflecting on Ram Clean’s Journey and Success Stories00:55:07 - Future Aspirations and Unique Personal Goals of Guests00:55:20 - Encouraging Positive, Healthy Journeys and Audience Engagement

The Power of Specialization in the Commercial Cleaning Industry with Claudia Goddiess

Claudia Goddiess is an immigrant and entrepreneur, and the owner/creator of Apex Building Services, a commercial cleaning company based in Clinton, NJ. 
Claudia came to this country as a teenager, knowing not a word of English, and has worked her way up to become a college graduate and a successful business owner.
With over 20 years of experience in the cleaning industry, Claudia launched her business in 2019 and has since expanded it to more than 70 accounts, employing over 90 staff.
Her company specializes in clean room cleaning for pharmaceutical clients, requiring strict adherence to protocols and specialized training. Claudia’s expertise includes understanding and implementing detailed SOPs, handling negative and positive airflow environments, and maintaining high standards for safety and cleanliness.
Her practical knowledge, combined with her ability to adapt during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic, has contributed to Apex Building Services’ steady growth and strong reputation in a demanding niche market.
 
Email for Claudia: cgoddiess@apex-building-services.com
Contact Claudia on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-cardona-apex/
Apex Building Services
The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Starting a Cleaning Business Amidst Challenges00:06:30 - Understanding Clean Rooms and Their Unique Cleaning Standards00:08:00 - The Role of PPE and Strict Protocols in Pharmaceutical Cleaning00:10:30 - Importance of SOPs and Step-by-Step Clean Room Procedures00:12:30 - Diverse Pharmaceutical Cleaning Needs and Maintaining Sterile Environments00:14:58 - The Critical Role of Cleaning in Healthcare and Child Safety00:16:35 - Cleaning as a Life-Saving Profession and Pride in Work00:18:02 - Specialized Training and Pay in Pharmaceutical and Clean Room Cleaning00:20:18 - Clean Room Protocols: Gowning, Equipment, and Contamination Control00:26:46 - Hiring, Training, and Operational Excellence in Specialized Cleaning Services00:29:44 - Hiring Trusted Referrals and Onsite Training Best Practices00:31:17 - Immigrant Experience and Building a Diverse Workforce00:34:00 - Industry Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing to Foster Growth00:36:30 - Balancing Family Life and Business Growth00:38:56 - Finding Your Niche and the Importance of Specialized Certification00:43:40 - Carpet and Stone Floor Care Certifications and Training Insights00:48:12 - Chemical-Free Floor Stripping Techniques and Health Benefits00:49:32 - Remote and Hands-On Training Blends for Effective Cleaning Education00:51:30 - Entrepreneurial Advice: Mentorship and Training for Success in Cleaning Business00:53:05 - Claudia Goddiess’ Personal and Professional Growth Plans