Boring Businesses That Make Money, From Real Podcast Episodes

Laundromats, vending, cleaning, storage and more: ideas and real operators from startup podcasts, filterable, each citing its episode. CSV included.

By Startup Seeds Editorial Team · Updated · 173 rows from 5 podcasts

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What is included: Ideas and businesses whose name mentions an unglamorous, asset-light or trade-style category from our list of about fifty terms (laundromat, vending, cleaning, storage, lawn care, junk removal and so on). The match is on the title only.

77 matching rows

Showing 41 to 77.

  1. IdeaSaaS

    Laundromat Modernization Software Platform

    Develop a software platform that provides laundromat owners with tools for management, customer engagement, and operational analytics to modernize the laundromat industry.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 58: How to Start a Laundromat with 40% Net Profit Margins. Ep #058 (Aug 28, 2024)

  2. IdeaPhysical-Services

    Residential Laundry Pickup and Delivery Service

    Launch a residential laundry pickup and delivery service that collects laundry from customers homes and returns it clean and folded the next day.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 58: How to Start a Laundromat with 40% Net Profit Margins. Ep #058 (Aug 28, 2024)

  3. IdeaPhysical-Services

    Eco-Friendly Junk Recycling Facility

    A facility that processes junk removal items to recycle and donate usable goods, reducing landfill waste and promoting environmental sustainability.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 54: How Two Teenage Brothers Built a $900k Junk Removal Business with No Money. Ep #054 (Aug 19, 2024)

  4. IdeaEducation

    Cold Calling Training Program for Sales in Vending Industry

    Create a training program focused on teaching effective cold calling techniques specifically for professionals looking to enter the vending machine business.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 35: How to build a 7 figure vending machine business by finding the best locations. Ep. #035 (Jul 4, 2024)

  5. IdeaPhysical-Services

    Door-to-Door Pine Straw Cleaning Service

    A mobile service offering on-the-spot pine straw cleaning for residential roofs, providing convenience and efficiency for homeowners.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 32: Roasting and Grading 9 of Your Business Ideas! Ep. #032 (Jun 24, 2024)

  6. IdeaPhysical-Services

    Expansion of Junk Removal and Moving Services into New Markets

    A business that expands existing junk removal and moving services into larger markets by leveraging established brand reputation and operational expertise.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 28: Q&A: Taking junk removal from $1M to $10M by opening a 2nd location, plus more! Ep. #028 (Jun 10, 2024)

  7. Real businessPhysical-Services

    A fencing company

    A business that builds fences and generates leads primarily through Facebook Marketplace.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): $2.5 million a year in revenue, with double-digit margins.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 195: The Smart Way to Start Small and Still Win Big ⏐ Ep. #195

  8. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Car Wash Coffee

    A coffee service set up at hand car wash locations, serving customers while they wait for their cars to be cleaned.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): $5 to $600 net profit can be made in an afternoon at car washes, depending on the volume of customers.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 297: This Cheap Business in a Box Makes $2K+ a Day - Ep. #297

  9. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Carlos' Landscaping Business

    A local landscaping service run by a young entrepreneur who was helped by James to establish his business.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Initially paid James $300 for setup services, now pays $200/month for ongoing marketing support.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 348: Anyone Can Start This $18K/Month Business With a Phone - Ep. #348

  10. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Cleaning Company

    A service that provides cleaning for residential properties, started by the guest as a means to generate income.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The guest earned approximately $40 per hour while cleaning, which was significantly better than driving for DoorDash.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 332: From DoorDash to $81K/M With This Overlooked Business - Ep. #332

  11. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Coil Cleaning Business

    A specialized service focusing on cleaning HVAC units, particularly in grocery stores and gas stations.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Charges around $500 per quarter per grocery store client.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 206: These Businesses Can Completely Change Your Life in 6 Months ⏐Holdco Bros. Ep. #206

  12. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Commercial Cleaning Businesses

    Businesses that provide cleaning services for residential and commercial properties, including short-term rental properties like Airbnbs.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Average revenues for these businesses can reach $1 million, with startup costs between $50,000 and $60,000.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 279: The Most Overlooked Way to Get Rich (Proven Blueprint)⏐Ep. #279

  13. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Daniel's Pressure Washing Business

    Daniel operates a pressure washing business and multiple home service businesses, utilizing innovative marketing techniques.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 171: Quit Waiting. Start This Simple Business with $0 | Ep. #171

  14. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Grill Cleaning Business

    A service that cleans outdoor grills for homeowners.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): If 1% of households in the Dallas-Fort Worth area pay $250 for grill cleaning, a single business could make approximately $750,000 a year.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 275: The 7 Best Food Businesses to Start in 2026 (No Experience)⏐Ep. #275

  15. Real businessEducation

    Home Service Academy - A company teaching aspiring entrepreneurs how to start and run home cleaning businesses remotely

    Founded by Johnny Robinson, Home Service Academy specializes in instructing individuals on how to create and manage home cleaning businesses with minimal upfront investment. The academy focuses on helping people, especially those in need like Robinson's mom, to gain financial independence through the cleaning sector.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Home Service Academy generated $2.8 million in revenue within just nine months after its launch, with a profit of $1.5 million. They presold $50,000 in programs before officially starting, showcasing strong initial de...

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 69: How to Make Millions with a Home Cleaning Business. Ep #069

  16. Real businessPhysical-Services

    J&D Lake Services - A pond cleaning company that has tapped into a high-demand market with 75% net profit margins

    Founded by Joe Weinberger and Declan, J&D Lake Services provides specialized pond cleaning services for homeowners with lakefront properties. They focus on manual removal of weeds and algae, offering a chemical-free alternative to traditional pond maintenance.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): In their first full season, J&D Lake Services generated around $40,000 in revenue with a profit margin of approximately 75%. They serviced about 45 clients over three months.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 75: I Found an Untapped Home Service Business with 75% Net Profit Margins. Ep #075

  17. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Laundromat Business

    A business that operates laundromats, focusing on providing a better customer experience through research and understanding of the local market.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The business model includes residential pickup and delivery services, charging around $2 per pound for laundry. They also have a high percentage of coin usage, indicating a diverse customer base.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 239: The $300K/Year Business That Almost Never Fails⏐Ep. #239

  18. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Laundry Spot - A modern laundromat chain that’s crushing it with a unique approach

    Founded by Tyler Purcell, Laundry Spot is a chain of laundromats in Cincinnati, Ohio, that stands out for its clean, modern facilities and exceptional customer service. Tyler operates four locations while simultaneously running a wealth management firm, proving that you can juggle multiple ventures successfully!

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Tyler's laundromats collectively generated around $3 million in top-line revenue last year, with net profits exceeding $1.1 million. This year, they're on pace for $3.2 million in revenue and $1.4 million in net profit!

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 58: How to Start a Laundromat with 40% Net Profit Margins. Ep #058

  19. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Local HVAC and Tax Services

    Local businesses specializing in HVAC services and tax preparation that utilize board advertising to reach potential customers.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 327: The Simplest $10K/Month Business Most People Miss ($0 to Start) - Ep. #327

  20. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Park Cities Power Wash - A home services business that started with pressure washing and expanded into multiple service lines and significant profits

    Park Cities Power Wash, founded by Doug, is a home services company based in Dallas Fort Worth that provides power washing, gutter cleaning, window washing, and Christmas light installation. Doug started the business after selling his hood cleaning business and saw a demand for power washing in his neighborhood.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Doug's business grew rapidly, starting with $75,000 in revenue in its second year and doubling each year for about four to five years. Currently, he anticipates hitting $800,000 to $900,000 in revenue this year.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 121: Why I’m Bullish on Home Services⏐Ep. #121

  21. Real businessE-commerce

    Perfume Vending Machines - A unique business concept that offers high-margin perfume sprays via vending machines

    Founded by an unknown entrepreneur, these perfume vending machines allow customers to purchase a single spray of perfume or cologne for just a dollar. The machines are designed to be placed in high-traffic areas, featuring a glass display with multiple fragrance options and a credit card reader for easy transactions.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Each bottle in the machine can yield 90+% profit margins, given they contain approximately 300 sprays. This means for every dollar spent on a spray, the potential revenue is significant.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 40: 6 Budget Friendly Businesses to Start in 2024. Perfume vending!? Ep. #040

  22. Real businessE-commerce

    Perfume Vending Machines - A viral concept turned business opportunity that leverages social media traction to sell unique vending machines

    Founded by Chris Kern, this business focuses on selling perfume vending machines. After a video went viral on social media, Chris seized the opportunity to become an exclusive distributor for these machines in North America.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): In just a week, Chris collected over 1,000 leads with an average interest of 8 machines per lead, translating into a potential revenue of approximately $24 million (with each machine priced at $3,000).

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 47: Behind the Scenes of Accidentally Launching a Business. Ep. #047

  23. Real businessSubscription

    Pescochal Company - A fascinating look at the lucrative world of pest control and summer sales

    Founded by Casey, the Pescochal Company is a pest control service that provides quarterly maintenance to customers, helping them manage pests in their homes. The service is built on a subscription model, ensuring recurring revenue through long-term customer relationships.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The company generates significant revenue with an estimated gross margin of 88%. Companies in this sector can expect year-over-year growth rates of 30% while maintaining a 40% net margin.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 128: The Margins on this Boring Business are Kind of Insane⏐Holdco Bros Discuss! Ep. #128

  24. Real businessMedia

    Pest Control Marketing Podcast

    A podcast designed to help small pest control companies grow their businesses through marketing strategies.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The podcast has generated millions of dollars in revenue by attracting customers who desire marketing help.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 328: The Most Overlooked AI Side Hustle Of 2026 - Ep. #328

  25. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Pond Cleaning Business

    A service started by teenagers that cleans ponds, removing seaweed and other debris to make lakefront homes more appealing.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): They charge high prices for their services due to the specialized equipment used, which allows them to generate significant income from a niche market.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 196: The Most Profitable Local Business Everyone Overlooks ($70K/Month) ⏐ Ep. #196

  26. Real businessE-commerce

    Portable Self-Storage

    A business model that uses portable storage containers for rental income.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Rents storage spaces at approximately $130 a month per unit.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 258: 40 Genius Ways of Making Thousands from Unwanted Land⏐Ep. #258

  27. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Pressure Washing Business

    A service that cleans driveways and other surfaces using high-pressure water.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Reported a 5% conversion rate with a low-cost marketing approach, leading to a significant number of clients.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 347: He’s 60, Not a Tech Guy, and Makes $30K/Month With AI - Ep. #347

  28. Real businessE-commerce

    Quinn Miller's Vending Machine Business

    A vending machine business that operates traditional snack and drink machines, including smart coolers and market concepts.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The business achieved $1,500 in sales in the first month from a new location, and the machines can generate significant revenue with minimal effort.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 262: He Quit His Job and Built a $1M+ Vending Business (Full Playbook)⏐Ep. #262

  29. Real businessE-commerce

    Quinn Miller's Vending Machine Empire

    Quinn Miller runs a successful vending machine business that specializes in traditional snacks and drinks, as well as smart coolers and ATMs. He focuses on finding optimal locations for his vending machines, which has allowed him to generate significant revenue while minimizing his time on-site.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Quinn reports sales of $1,500 to $2,000 per day, with some locations generating up to $1,300 in the first month alone.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 35: How to build a 7 figure vending machine business by finding the best locations. Ep. #035

  30. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Rex's Insulation and Vent Cleaning

    A home performance business in Phoenix that specializes in insulation removal, reinstatement, and duct sealing, focusing on energy savings and indoor air quality.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The business achieves over a million dollars in annual revenue, with an average ticket price around $10,000. They utilize financing options, which can increase the overall job value to approximately $11,000.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 214: You Can Build This $1M+ Business With No Tools and No Crew ⏐ Ep. #214

  31. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Rolling Suds - A rapidly growing pressure washing franchise that aims to dominate the market with innovative support for its franchisees

    Founded by Aaron Harper, Rolling Suds is a pressure washing franchise that offers franchise opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs. The company has quickly expanded to over 50 franchisees across 26 states, providing comprehensive support from marketing to operations to help franchisees succeed in the competitive home service industry.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Since its launch, Rolling Suds has signed up 51 franchisees who have purchased 187 territories in just 15 months, generating over $10 million in revenue. The average gross revenue per truck is approximately $422,000 a...

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 20: Pressure washing profits: You'll never believe how much these guys make! Ep. #020

  32. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Sam's Fencing and Stock Tank Pools - A multi-faceted entrepreneurial journey that capitalizes on low-barrier businesses in the construction and wellness sectors

    Sam Uncurt, a founder from Fort Worth, Texas, transitioned from a corporate job to learn the construction trade, ultimately starting a fencing and outdoor structure business. He then expanded into stock tank pool installations, offering an affordable alternative to traditional in-ground pools for families and millennials.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Sam's stock tank pool installation business brings in around $2,300 per installation, with an estimated cost of $1,200 per job. His sauna and cold plunge business is grossing over $10,000 a month and has around 130 re...

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 84: Three Business Deep Dives: Fencing, Stock Tank Pools, Saunas & Cold Plunges. Ep. #84

  33. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Self Storage Ventures by Baird Klein-Smith - A savvy entrepreneur who turned a $3 million windfall into a $21 million self-storage empire

    Baird Klein-Smith entered the self-storage market after gaining experience in tech and realizing the potential for appreciation in undervalued storage facilities. Over four years, he has invested $1.8 million of his own money into self-storage properties.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Currently, Baird is generating $300,000 to $400,000 a year in cash flow after debt servicing, with significant room for growth as he optimizes his facilities.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 56: How to Sell Products That Cost You Less Than $0. HoldCo Bros Are Back! Ep #056

  34. Real businessE-commerce

    Side Vending - A vending machine company diversifying into unique product offerings and leveraging social media for lead generation

    Founded by Chris and Nick, Side Vending started as a perfume vending machine business and has since expanded to include vibrant offerings like cotton candy and motorcycle helmet cleaning vending machines. The company targets venues such as amusement parks, events, and family-friendly attractions, where these unique vending options can thrive.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Side Vending has generated nearly $200,000 in sales, with over 2,000 leads for their helmet cleaning machine alone. They're constantly evolving their product line to capture new opportunities.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 86: How to Cash in from Other Companies’ Email Lists (HoldCo Bros) Ep. #86

  35. Real businessMarketplace

    Sierra Auto Fair - A unique marketplace that connects car sellers and buyers using underutilized parking lots

    Sierra Auto Fair is founded by an entrepreneur who leverages community college parking lots to host car fairs. Sellers pay a fee to reserve parking spots for their cars, while buyers can browse and test-drive vehicles, making it a convenient platform for high-intent transactions without traditional dealership hassles.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Sellers pay about $149 to reserve a spot, and the fair attracts numerous potential buyers, creating a high-traffic environment for car sales.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 62: 3 Innovative Ways to Monetize the Used Car Business. HoldCo Bros Are Back! Ep #062

  36. Real businessPhysical-Services

    The Pink Plumber

    A plumbing company that was rebranded with a philanthropic angle after the owner's wife survived cancer, dedicating a portion of profits to charity.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The owner effectively used a memorable jingle in advertising, which helped dominate search results for relevant keywords.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 328: The Most Overlooked AI Side Hustle Of 2026 - Ep. #328

  37. Real businessE-commerce

    Zinn Vending Machines

    A vending machine business that specializes in selling Zinn products, particularly in college and fraternity settings.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The founder reported making around $3,000 a month from vending machines placed in strategic locations.

    Source: Koerner Office, episode 149: AI Agents and Deep Research Hacks. The Latest Updates⏐Holdco Bros. Ep. #149

By podcast

What counts as boring

"Boring" is a vibe, so we made it a rule you can inspect. A row qualifies when its title names one of roughly fifty plain, unfashionable business types: laundromats, vending machines, cleaning, storage, lawn care, junk removal, pressure washing, equipment rental, bookkeeping and similar. The full rule is printed above the list. If your favourite boring business is missing, it is because no episode we have processed named it.

Ideas and real operators in one place

The list mixes two kinds of row, and you can filter between them.

  • Ideas are concepts a host or guest described.
  • Real businesses are companies or operators a guest talked about, with the episode attached. Where the episode summary states a revenue or profit figure, we show it as stated and label it. If the summary says nothing, we show nothing.

We do not estimate, round up or fill in numbers. A figure here is what the extracted episode summary says, which can differ from the guest's exact words, so check the episode before you rely on it.

Why this is a list worth checking

Each row here points to a specific conversation. Listen to hear how the operator got customers, what the work involves and what went wrong.

The CSV contains the same rows as the table, with the show, episode, kind of row and page URL for each, so you can build your own shortlist.

FAQ

Are the revenue figures verified?

No. They come from episode summaries of what a guest said, and the label says so. Treat them as leads to check in the episode.

Why are some businesses shown without a revenue figure?

Because the episode did not state one, or our extraction did not capture it. We leave it blank instead of guessing.

Can I use the data?

Yes. Download the CSV and please link back to this page if you publish anything from it.

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