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Episode Summary
Karen Denton, CEO and Founder of Karen’s Second Chance Commercial Cleaning Services, shares her inspiring journey from overcoming major health challenges to building a thriving commercial cleaning business.
In this episode of The Business of Cleaning, Karen discusses the importance of mentorship, setting up your cleaning business the right way, and learning from early mistakes. She breaks down how minority certification helped open new doors, and what it means for her company to be selected as the official cleaning provider for the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.
If you own or manage a commercial cleaning business, this episode delivers real-world advice on legal setup, financial best practices, bidding, operations, and sustainable growth. Karen’s story highlights how resilience, community support, and strategic planning can create long-term success in the cleaning industry.
🎙 Topics covered in this episode:
- Starting and scaling a commercial cleaning business
- Overcoming challenges as a business owner
- Minority certification for cleaning companies
- Mentorship and coaching in business
- Preparing for large contracts and national events
- The 2026 NFL Draft and commercial cleaning opportunities
Featured Guest:
Karen Denton
CEO and Founder of Karen’s Second Chance Commercial Cleaning Services
Karen Denton is a four-time brain aneurysm survivor and an accomplished businesswoman based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her journey of courage and tenacity has shaped her into a formidable leader who is as inspiring as she is successful. Despite facing life’s most daunting challenges, Karen has emerged with a deep passion for life, a profound empathy for others, and a commitment to helping her community thrive.
As the owner of a thriving commercial cleaning company, Karen brings years of expertise and a keen eye for detail to every project. Her dedication to quality and client satisfaction has built her business into a trusted partner for businesses throughout Pittsburgh. She also uses her platform to mentor and uplift others, offering consulting services that help fellow entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of bidding on commercial contracts.
Karen’s life is a testament to the power of resilience and purpose. Her story inspires others to persevere, no matter the obstacles, and to believe in the possibility of success through hard work and unwavering faith.