• Real Stories, Career Pivots & the Power of Authenticity with Jerry Bauer BCWA S9:E12
    Sep 23 2025
    Myth #1: You need to be a tech whiz to start a cleaning podcast. Myth #2: Floor care in nursing homes is all about using the fanciest products. Myth #3: Switching jobs in the cleaning biz is a sign you’re failing. Trust me, the real story is way more interesting—stick around and I’ll share what actually works (and it’s not what you think). Jerry Bauer has over eight years of professional experience working with Chem Station of Boston, where he specializes in providing chemical solutions for the food processing and brewing industries across New England. Originally from the Midwest, Jerry previously focused on the hospitality sector before transitioning into his current role. His background includes extensive work with nursing homes, where he gained firsthand knowledge of effective floor care techniques and the challenges of facility maintenance. J His career reflects a practical understanding of both the technical and interpersonal aspects of the cleaning industry, making him a credible source on topics ranging from chemical applications to career growth within the sector. Email Jerry here: jbauer5307@yahoo.com Connect with Jerry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-bauer-596b627/ Want to listen to his podcast, "Cleaning Processes" https://www.podpage.com/cleaning-processes-with-jerry/ You can hear Jerry on his first podcast with us here back in August of 2021. https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/e/bcwa-s5e22-jerry-bauer-on-the-value-of-value/ The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Podcasting Journey with Jerry Bauer 00:08:33 - Early Career Insights and Industry Evolution 00:11:48 - The Value of Hands-On Training in Floor Care Education 00:12:25 - Memorable Floor Care Demo Challenges 00:14:19 - Building Trust and Honest Communication in Client Relationships 00:15:07 - Early Janitorial Sales Techniques and the Influence of Link Cruise Camp 00:18:44 - Modern Janitorial Industry Success and the Value of Experience 00:19:23 - Evolution of Sales Training from Traditional to Digital 00:20:55 - Writing “Beyond Clean”: Memoirs of a Janitorial Career 00:25:14 - Life Lessons from Working in Manhattan and Embracing Change 00:29:21 - Discovering Iconic Vermont Photography Spots and the Value of Pausing 00:31:18 - Unique Access and Experiences in the Cleaning Industry 00:33:21 - The Cleaning Industry’s Vital Role and Growth Potential 00:35:33 - Podcasting Journey and Community Impact in Cleaning 00:40:45 - Upcoming Book and Sharing Personal Industry Stories 00:44:05 - Unexpected Challenges and Lessons in Customer Service 00:45:35 - Embracing Humor and Storytelling in the Cleaning Industry 00:46:21 - Balancing Personal and Professional Goals 00:46:56 - Prioritizing Health and Wellness as We Age 00:48:22 - Inspiring Positive and Proactive Journeys OUR WEBSITES ================================== ACADEMY OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE: https://academyofcleaning.com/ ROCK STARS OF CLEANING: https://rockstarsofcleaning.com/ SOCIAL ============================ PODCAST: https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyofCle... TWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockstarsclean INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/academyofcl... TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@academyofclea... ============================ #safe #healthy #cleaning #academyofclean #rockstarsofcleaning
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    49 mins
  • The Hidden Power of Employee Satisfaction in Scaling Your Cleaning Business with Charlie Ramshaw & Rob Thomas * BCWA S9:E11
    Sep 17 2025
    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 Growth 00:04:34 - Navigating Growth and Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic 00:06:42 - Rob Thomas’s Role in Driving Marketing and Lead Generation at Ram Clean 00:09:26 - Overcoming Scaling Challenges and Leadership Lessons in Cleaning Services 00:11:06 - Integrating Marketing, Sales, and Operations for Sustainable Business Success 00:13:33 - Building Long-Term Cleaning Service Partnerships with Customer-Centric Solutions 00:14:22 - The Impact of Clean Restrooms on Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty 00:17:10 - The Value of W2 Employees Over Subcontractors in Cleaning Services 00:21:13 - Authentic Marketing Through Real Photos and Transparent Brand Storytelling 00:25:07 - Strategic Growth and Technology Integration in Multi-State Cleaning Operations 00:27:56 - Leveraging Real-Time Data and Scaling Janitorial Services 00:28:44 - Managing Operations and Human Challenges in Multi-State Cleaning Businesses 00:30:19 - Tackling High Employee Turnover in the Cleaning Industry 00:33:13 - The Impact of Certification and Training on Hiring Quality Cleaners 00:38:04 - Elevating the Janitorial Trade Through Competitive Pay and Industry Partnerships 00:40:32 - Managing Customer Expectations and Business Growth in Facility Services 00:42:40 - Simplifying Business Operations through Specialization and Leadership 00:47:35 - Navigating Post-Covid Industry Changes and Adapting to Market Challenges 00:48:49 - Proven Strategies for Long-Term Lead Generation and Customer Retention 00:52:20 - Personal Goals and Balancing Business Growth with Life Aspirations 00:54:13 - Personal Plans and Milestones with Charlie Ramshaw, Rob Thomas, and Dave Thompson 00:54:27 - Podcast Follow-Up and Visual Updates from Guests 00:54:34 - Reflecting on Ram Clean’s Journey and Success Stories 00:55:07 - Future Aspirations and Unique Personal Goals of Guests 00:55:20 - Encouraging Positive, Healthy Journeys and Audience Engagement OUR WEBSITES ================================== ACADEMY OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE: https://academyofcleaning.com/ ROCK STARS OF CLEANING: https://rockstarsofcleaning.com/ SOCIAL ============================ PODCAST: https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyofCle... TWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockstarsclean INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/academyofcl... TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@academyofclea... ============================ #safe #healthy #cleaning #academyofclean #rockstarsofcleaning
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    56 mins
  • Customer Satisfaction Drives Commercial Cleaning Profits with Jeff Carmon * BCWA S9:E10
    Sep 9 2025
    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 Reach 00:03:10 - Guest Introduction: Jeff Carmon’s Diverse Career Journey 00:07:14 - Collaboration Over Competition in Janitorial Services 00:08:31 - Common Industry Challenges: Turnover and Customer Issues 00:10:02 - Strategic Growth and Market Understanding for Janitorial Companies 00:13:43 - Defining Business Growth Stages and the Importance of Strategic Planning 00:17:00 - Identifying Ideal Customers and Leveraging Outside Expertise for Growth 00:19:23 - Overcoming Industry Challenges Through Employee Training and Certification 00:22:50 - Customer Satisfaction as the Cornerstone of Sustainable Business Growth 00:25:29 - Innovating Cleaning Practices and Shifting Industry Narratives Post-COVID 00:27:36 - Emphasizing Health-Focused Cleaning for Workplace Wellbeing 00:30:02 - Selling Health Prevention Services in the Janitorial Industry 00:31:27 - Preparing Facilities for Future Pandemics with Proactive Cleaning 00:34:30 - Rethinking Customer Expectations and Pricing in Cleaning Services 00:39:52 - Growth Opportunities Through Health and Safety Messaging in the Cleaning Industry 00:41:40 - Planning an Engaging Leadership Conference in Louisville, Kentucky 00:44:00 - The Power of Giving and Growing at Industry Conferences 00:45:37 - Continuous Learning and Team Development in Building Services 00:47:27 - Coaching Wisdom: Serving Others as the Core of Business Success 00:48:43 - Personal Reflections and Travel Aspirations Beyond the Industry OUR WEBSITES ================================== ACADEMY OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE: https://academyofcleaning.com/ ROCK STARS OF CLEANING: https://rockstarsofcleaning.com/ SOCIAL ============================ PODCAST: https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyofCle... TWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockstarsclean INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/academyofcl... TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@academyofclea... ============================ #safe #healthy #cleaning #academyofclean #rockstarsofcleaning
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    52 mins
  • Cleaning, Chemicals & Biofilms with Dr. Greg Whitely* BCWA S9:E9
    Sep 5 2025

    This episode was recorded live during the 2022 Rock Stars of Cleaning virtual conference.

    Professor Greg Whitely has been a paramount figure in the Australian cleaning and hygiene industry for over 45 years.

    Professor Whitely leads one of the country’s predominant disinfectant sterilant manufacturers.

    His educational background, which includes a doctorate from the University of Western Sydney, a master's degree from the University of New South Wales, and an undergraduate degree from Hawkesbury Agricultural College, further bolsters his credibility.

    A longstanding member of ISSA and an executive committee member at the Cleaning Industry Research Institute International, Greg’s insights promise to be both engaging and enlightening.

    Many thanks to Professor Greg for being a frequent contributor to this podcast and the Academy over the years.

    Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/professor-greg-s-whiteley-526b2bb7/

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    18 mins
  • The Power of Specialization in the Commercial Cleaning Industry with Claudia Cardona Goddiess * BCWA S9:E8
    Sep 3 2025
    Claudia Goddiess is an immigrant, an entrepreneur, and the owner/creator of Apex Building Services - a commercial cleaning company located in Clinton, NJ. Claudia came to this country as a teenager without knowing 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 a staff of over 90 employees. 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 Challenges 00:06:30 - Understanding Clean Rooms and Their Unique Cleaning Standards 00:08:00 - The Role of PPE and Strict Protocols in Pharmaceutical Cleaning 00:10:30 - Importance of SOPs and Step-by-Step Clean Room Procedures 00:12:30 - Diverse Pharmaceutical Cleaning Needs and Maintaining Sterile Environments 00:14:58 - The Critical Role of Cleaning in Healthcare and Child Safety 00:16:35 - Cleaning as a Life-Saving Profession and Pride in Work 00:18:02 - Specialized Training and Pay in Pharmaceutical and Clean Room Cleaning 00:20:18 - Clean Room Protocols: Gowning, Equipment, and Contamination Control 00:26:46 - Hiring, Training, and Operational Excellence in Specialized Cleaning Services 00:29:44 - Hiring Trusted Referrals and Onsite Training Best Practices 00:31:17 - Immigrant Experience and Building a Diverse Workforce 00:34:00 - Industry Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing to Foster Growth 00:36:30 - Balancing Family Life and Business Growth 00:38:56 - Finding Your Niche and the Importance of Specialized Certification 00:43:40 - Carpet and Stone Floor Care Certifications and Training Insights 00:48:12 - Chemical-Free Floor Stripping Techniques and Health Benefits 00:49:32 - Remote and Hands-On Training Blends for Effective Cleaning Education 00:51:30 - Entrepreneurial Advice: Mentorship and Training for Success in Cleaning Business 00:53:05 - Claudia Goddiess’ Personal and Professional Growth Plans OUR WEBSITES ================================== ACADEMY OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE: https://academyofcleaning.com/ ROCK STARS OF CLEANING: https://rockstarsofcleaning.com/ SOCIAL ============================ PODCAST: https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyofCle... TWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockstarsclean INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/academyofcl... TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@academyofclea... ============================ #safe #healthy #cleaning #academyofclean #rockstarsofcleaning
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    55 mins
  • Health, Safety, and People First: Core Values for Cleaning Companies with Shari Cedar
    Aug 25 2025

    Shari Cedar, the CEO and co-owner of AK Building Services, is a prominent figure in the Florida commercial cleaning industry.

    Her dedication to upholding the highest standards of health and safety in cleaning operations has contributed to the exceptional retention rate at AK Building Services.

    With a focus on instilling pride and value in her team, Shari's leadership has set a shining example in the industry.

    Through her commitment to creating healthy and safe work environments, Shari has established herself as a respected and influential voice, driving positive change and professional development within the cleaning industry.

    Connect with Shari on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharisolomoncedar/

    Need Services

    https://www.akbuildingservices.com/

    The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Quitting a Dream Job 00:01:05 - Introduction to AK Building Services 00:03:07 - Florida Living and Snowbirds 00:05:23 - Importance of Frontline Worker Health 00:07:34 - Retention and Employee Care 00:14:16 - Impact of COVID on the Janitorial Industry 00:15:29 - Industry Standards and Acceptance 00:17:00 - Common Challenges in Commercial Cleaning 00:23:28 - Need for Innovation in Cleaning Tools 00:27:58 - Transition from TV Production to Cleaning Industry 00:29:18 - Starting a Small Business 00:30:56 - Providing Livelihood for Others 00:33:12 - The Value of Cleaning Industry 00:35:43 - Rinsing Surfaces and Chemicals 00:43:29 - Future Collaboration 00:44:12 - Getting to Know Shari Cedar 00:44:58 - Shari's Bucket List 00:45:46 - The Challenge of Getting a Number 00:46:24 - Key Takeaways

    ACADEMY OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE: https://academyofcleaning.com/

    SOCIAL ============================

    PODCAST: https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/

    FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyofCle...

    TWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockstarsclean

    INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/academyofcl...

    TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@academyofclea... ============================

    #safe #healthy #cleaning #academyofclean #rockstarsofcleaning

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    47 mins
  • Beyond Mops and Buckets: The Power of Tailored Training and Tech with Christina Freer * BCWA S9:E7
    Aug 21 2025
    Sound familiar? 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 Background 00:06:00 - Mentorship and Understanding Client Needs in Commercial Cleaning 00:08:30 - Consistency and Reliability as Foundations of Cleaning Success 00:11:00 - Structured Training and Service Scheduling for Effective Janitorial Operations 00:13:00 - Advanced Team Cleaning Model and Client Accountability 00:14:09 - Effective Inspection and Validation Processes in Cleaning Services 00:17:01 - Modern Cleaning Equipment and Consistency in Service Delivery 00:20:33 - Post-COVID Cleaning Priorities: Consistency Over Price 00:23:33 - Customized Supplies and Equipment for Optimal Cleaning Results 00:24:45 - Leveraging Technology and Training Innovations for Cleaner Onboarding 00:27:43 - Innovative Pre-Job Skills Assessment Using 3D Scans 00:30:31 - Building Team Connection Through Personal Engagement 00:33:57 - Leveraging Personality Assessments to Strengthen Leadership 00:35:32 - Company Growth and Rigorous Hiring Practices 00:38:46 - Cultivating a Fun and Positive Company Culture 00:40:01 - Hilarious and Challenging Moments in Commercial Cleaning 00:41:23 - Family Involvement and Support Behind RCF Commercial Cleaning 00:43:08 - Multi-Generational Workforce and Cleaning Industry Legacy 00:45:24 - Valuable Advice to Younger Self and Aspiring Entrepreneurs 00:46:52 - Personal Life and Future Plans Beyond Business WEBSITES ================================== ROCK STARS OF CLEANING: https://rockstarsofcleaning.com/ ACADEMY OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE: https://academyofcleaning.com/ SOCIAL ============================ PODCAST: https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyofCle... TWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockstarsclean INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/academyofcl... TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@academyofclea... ============================ #safe #healthy #cleaning #academyofclean #rockstarsofcleaning
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    48 mins
  • Kosta Ebanoidze Embraces Stone’s True Nature and Transforms Facility Floor Care Culture BCWA S9:E6
    Aug 14 2025
    Are you overwhelmed by conflicting advice about crystallization, diamond refinishing, or natural stone polishing? Trust me—there are plenty of facility managers and restoration pros feeling just as stuck! If you're feeling frustrated because no matter how many times you strip, wax, or buff your terrazzo or stone floors, they still end up looking dull, scratched, or just plain lifeless, then you are not alone! If you've invested in quick fixes like surface sealers or basic janitorial cleaning—only to watch your floors lose their shine within weeks, you’re not the only one in that boat. If you’ve tried patching up grout lines or covering up terrazzo with carpet or vinyl, only for underlying problems to keep coming back, you know how discouraging that cycle can be. Today, my special guest is Kosta Ebanoidze, someone who truly understands the ins and outs of stone floors, and his path into the industry is anything but ordinary. Growing up in Georgia (the country, not the state), Kosta first came to the U.S. chasing a baseball dream. That competitive drive stuck with him as he shifted into the world of stone restoration, tackling everything from marble countertops to complex terrazzo flooring projects. Now based in Chicago, he runs Pinnacle Stone Restoration, where he’s built a reputation for solving problems that stump most pros—think hidden cracks, faded finishes, and restoring natural shine. Kosta’s background in fabrication gave him a problem-solving mindset, and over the years, he’s become known for his willingness to experiment, learn, and share his knowledge. He’s got a knack for making technical topics easy to understand, and he’s passionate about raising the bar for stone care everywhere. Reach out to Kosta here: kosta@pinnaclestonecare.com You can see all that Pinnacle Stone Care has to offer: http://www.pinnaclestonecare.com/ Connect with Kosta on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kosta-ebanoidze-47443117/ Special thanks to Mo Bashar with Unlimited Building Maintenance for putting us together for this podcast. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Changing Cleaning Culture and Introduction to Beyond Clean with Ace 00:02:21 - Kosta Ebanoidze’s Journey from Baseball to Stone Restoration 00:06:49 - Challenges in Stone Fabrication and Restoring Factory Finish 00:09:20 - Transitioning from Countertops to Polishing Large Stone Floors 00:12:45 - The Science Behind Marble Polishing Using 5X Powder 00:15:48 - Understanding Momentum and Evolution in Stone Restoration Techniques 00:17:10 - Advancements in Stone Restoration Machinery: From Single to Triple-Headed Machines 00:21:03 - Strategic Equipment Investments and Building a Versatile Restoration Arsenal 00:23:15 - Residential Stone Restoration: Honing, Polishing, and Innovative Grout Solutions 00:32:19 - Understanding Cementitious vs Epoxy Terrazzo Composition and Polishing Challenges 00:35:06 - Common Issues with Terrazzo Maintenance and Restoration 00:37:51 - The Impact of Wax and Sealers on Terrazzo Floors’ Appearance and Breathability 00:40:50 - Longevity and Cost-Effectiveness of Diamond Refinishing Over Traditional Maintenance 00:48:54 - Changing Stone Care Culture Through Right Practices 00:49:35 - Podcast Closing and Encouragement to Share Stone Care Wisdom 00:50:31 - The Impact of Culture on Stone Care Success 00:51:30 - Educating Janitorial Staff on Basic Stone Care 00:52:06 - Rejecting Quick Fixes for Sustainable Stone Care WEBSITES ================================== ROCK STARS OF CLEANING: https://rockstarsofcleaning.com/ ACADEMY OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE: https://academyofcleaning.com/ SOCIAL ============================ PODCAST: https://beyondcleanwithace.podbean.com/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AcademyofCle... TWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockstarsclean INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/academyofcl... TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@academyofclea... ============================ #safe #healthy #cleaning #academyofclean #rockstarsofcleaning
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    52 mins