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Episode Summary
Behind every successful company is a story of courage, change, and purpose. This month on The Business of Cleaning podcast, we welcome an extraordinary guest whose career path took a dramatic-and inspiring-turn.
Shari Cedar began her professional journey in the fast-paced world of television, where she served as an Executive Producer, including work on The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Despite the excitement and accolades of the entertainment industry, Shari sought something more permanent and personal-something that could serve her family long-term.
That moment of reflection led Shari and her husband to launch AK Building Services, a commercial cleaning company that has grown to employ over 800 people and serve clients across a broad range of industries. As CEO and Owner, Shari has brought her creativity, leadership skills, and passion for excellence into an industry where those qualities are often overlooked but deeply needed.
A Conversation on Growth, Leadership, and Legacy
In this episode titled “From Prime Time to Clean Time: Shari Cedar’s Journey in Commercial Cleaning”, we sit down with Shari to explore:
- The challenges and triumphs of starting and scaling a cleaning company from the ground up
- Leadership insights gained from managing large teams and navigating a fast-growing operation
- Personal growth milestones as a business owner and industry leader
- The dynamic experience of building a business alongside her spouse
- And much more
Shari’s story is not only about changing careers-it’s about redefining success, leading with integrity, and leaving a lasting impact in an essential industry.
Featured Guest:
Shari Cedar
CEO & Co-Owner, AK Building Services
For 25+ years, Shari Cedar has been leading with purpose and passion. Whether in TV production, where she spent her first chapter, or commercial cleaning, where she has fully dedicated her second chapter to creating growth opportunities for AK Building Services, Shari’s presence is felt by all. As CEO and Co-Owner of AK Building Services, an industry-leading family owned and operated commercial janitorial services provider in Florida that Shari owns with her husband, Mark, Shari is laser-focused on leadership and growing the organization for the team.
Shari is an active participant in the industry representing the company as a member of Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA), CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) Network, BSCAI and the Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. When Shari is not serving her clients and teammates, she can be found supporting her community. She is a board member for the Pace Center for Girls, an active member of Women United®, and a member of the Nova Southeastern University Ambassador Board.
As a working mom of two boys, Shari hopes to pass on her commitment to making a difference, both in business and in the community.
