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.

All 173 rows

Showing 121 to 160.

  1. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Belk Mobile Detailing

    A mobile car detailing service started by college students Josh and his brother, offering cleaning and detailing services for vehicles at customers' locations.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Initially started with pricing at $30 for a full detail, and they have since raised their prices to around $90 for interior details and $140 for full details, with aims to charge $40-$50 per hour.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, Zero to $6k a Month With a Mobile Detailing Business (Greatest Hits)

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Cintas - A laundry and uniform rental giant that transformed an initial niche service into a $75 billion business

    Founded by Richard Farmer in 1929, Cintas specializes in providing rental uniforms and cleaning supplies to businesses. The company started by cleaning rags for circus performers and has since evolved to serve a wide range of industries, focusing on uniform rental and maintenance.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Cintas has grown from $180,000 in revenue in 1960 to approximately $9 billion annually, with a market capitalization of $75 billion today. The company boasts a strong recurring revenue model through its uniform rental...

    Source: My First Million, The Market Is Crashing. Here’s What We’re Doing About It…

  5. 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

  6. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Cody Smith's Pet Waste Removal

    A business that started as a rank and rent model but evolved into a service providing pet waste removal.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 767: 767: Listeners Share Their Scariest Entrepreneurial Moments

  7. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Cody Smith's Pet Waste Removal - A local service business thriving through effective online marketing and local SEO

    Cody Smith runs a pet waste removal service in Denver, leveraging local SEO to attract customers effectively.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Cody achieved multiple six-figure revenues through a combination of in-person services and strategic online marketing.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 588: 591: The 10 Best Side Hustles of the Year

  8. 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

  9. 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

  10. 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

  11. Real businessE-commerce

    Distinctive Vending - A unique vending machine business specializing in cotton candy and other novelty food items

    Distinctive Vending is a business that operates cotton candy vending machines at events and festivals, providing a fun and nostalgic treat to customers. This business model is particularly effective during seasonal events.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The owner reported earning between $6,000 to $15,000 per machine during peak months, with plans to scale up to multiple machines for greater revenue.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 638: 638: 10 Scary-Good Side Hustles That Make Real Money

  12. 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

  13. Real businessE-commerce

    H & H Vending - This business has skyrocketed from zero to $65k/month in vending revenue in just 16 months

    H & H Vending, founded by Anthony Kolow, specializes in placing vending machines in high-traffic locations, offering snacks, drinks, and even incidental items. Anthony's venture aims to create a passive income stream while teaching his children about entrepreneurship.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): In just 16 months, H & H Vending has achieved over $65,000 in monthly revenue and is projected to hit $75,000 by the end of April 2025. Anthony operates 30 vending machine locations currently.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 662: 662: From Zero to $50k/mo in Vending Revenue in 16 months

  14. Real businessAgency

    Heritage Business Services - A virtual bookkeeping service founded by Kate Johnson

    Heritage Business Services is a virtual bookkeeping service that helps small businesses manage their financial records and accounting needs. Founded by Kate Johnson, who initially had no formal bookkeeping experience, the service targets small business owners who need help with bookkeeping but don’t have the time or expertise to manage it themselves.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Kate's bookkeeping service is projected to generate between $80,000 to $90,000 in client services this year, with an additional income stream from her influencer activities that matches that amount, totaling over $150...

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, $70 an Hour from Home? How to Start a Bookkeeping Side Hustle (Greatest Hits)

  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 businessMedia

    HVAC School Podcast

    A podcast created by Brian Orr focused on training and education in the HVAC industry.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 683: 683: How to Find Your Side Hustle Niche

  17. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Irving Carpet Cleaning

    A local service website set up as part of the rank and rent model to generate leads for carpet cleaning services in Irving, Texas.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): The business model allows for charging contractors a flat rental fee for leads generated by the website, which can be several hundred dollars.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, Rank and Rent: $1000 a Month From Simple Local Websites

  18. 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

  19. Real businessPhysical-Services

    John O Santa Maria's Laundromat

    A laundromat business that John acquired and successfully improved through digital marketing.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 672: 672: 4 Types of Passive Income to Stop Trading Time for Money

  20. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Josh's Mobile Detailing Business

    A mobile car detailing service that provides cleaning and detailing for vehicles at customers' locations.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Full detailing services can range from $200 to $350, allowing for a quick return on initial investment in equipment.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 710: 710: 15 Things You Can Buy on Amazon to Make Money

  21. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Junk Hauling Weekend

    A temporary business initiative where teenagers go around the neighborhood collecting junk for a fee, using flyers to attract customers.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 727: 727: $250/hr by Productizing Your Expertise

  22. 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

  23. 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

  24. 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

  25. Real businessE-commerce

    Mike Hoffman's Vending Machine Business

    A business that involves purchasing vending machines to generate profit from sales at various locations.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): He finances vending machines with zero money down and has machines that can generate over $1,500 in revenue per month.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 672: 672: 4 Types of Passive Income to Stop Trading Time for Money

  26. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Moose Creek RV Park

    An RV park near Glacier National Park offering short-term stays for travelers with recreational vehicles.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Originally purchased for $8 million with a net profit of $700,000, now generating $1.2 million annually after expansions.

    Source: My First Million, The Side Hustle King: 11 Easy Businesses Anyone Can Start

  27. Real businessMarketplace

    Nebraska Elite Cleaning - A remote cleaning side hustle that skyrocketed to $60k/month in revenue by leveraging local professionals and a unique service model

    Founded by Skyler Sullivan, Nebraska Elite Cleaning is a cleaning service that connects homeowners with local cleaning professionals. The business model allows homeowners to outsource their cleaning needs while providing flexible job opportunities to cleaners in the area.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Skyler grew his cleaning business to an impressive $60,000 per month within just two years of starting it as a side hustle, showcasing rapid revenue growth and a strong client base.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 645: 645: The $60k/mo Remote Cleaning Side Hustle

  28. 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

  29. 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

  30. 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

  31. 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

  32. 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

  33. 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

  34. 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

  35. 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

  36. 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

  37. 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

  38. Real businessMarketplace

    Remote Cleaning Business - A matchmaker between clients and cleaners

    Skylar Sullivan created Nebraska Elite Cleaning, a remote cleaning service that connects clients with qualified cleaners, generating $60,000 a month.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): Skylar runs a profitable cleaning business, aiming for a 40-50% margin on residential jobs while managing a network of cleaners.

    Source: The Side Hustle Show, episode 648: 648: The 10 Best Side Hustles of the Year

  39. 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

  40. Real businessPhysical-Services

    Robot Lawn Mowing Services

    The concept revolves around using robot lawnmowers to service multiple residential properties without the need for manual labor. This idea was discussed by Andrew Wilkinson on the podcast, where he emphasized the potential of creating a company that utilizes these automated mowers to cut costs and increase profits.

    Stated in the episode summary (unverified): While specific revenue figures weren't mentioned, the founder noted that a robot mower could pay itself off in just 6 to 12 months compared to traditional lawn care services.

    Source: Startup Ideas Podcast, episode 165: 6 startup ideas from the tech Warren Buffett (make $120k/mo)

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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