What inspired you to start your cleaning business?

I have always wanted to start my own business.  What sparked the idea of starting a cleaning service was my inability to easily find and pay for a reputable cleaning service.  The cleaning services that I found were either big-name companies (who’s customer service team was not local to the Atlanta area and could only give me a quote over the phone) or small solo cleaners who only accepted cash or checks for payment.  Which was a total inconvenience for me.  I thought there was an opportunity for me to create another cleaning service that would specifically serve a person with needs similar to mine.

What has been your greatest professional success and biggest setback?

One of my greatest successes in business was growing my company to a six-figure business.  One of my biggest setbacks was COVID-19.  I was not prepared, my business was not prepared.  This was a huge learning lesson for me.

As a business owner, what are your top three priorities?

Finding extraordinary talent that can help grow the business.  Giving opportunities to hard-working people.  Obtaining financial freedom.

What are some of your goals for the future of Moxie Maids?

One of my biggest goals is moving into government contracting.  Currently, my customers are residential homeowners and commercial space owners.  My goal is to diversify my customer base and revenue streams.

What is the #1 thing on your bucket list?

Not business-related, I love to travel, so traveling to Bali is on my bucket list.

Have you ever experienced a reality check that changed you?

Yes, for sure.  I have been formally educated in business and have worked in corporate America for years.  I thought my background would make me fully prepared to step into entrepreneurship successfully.  Well, that didn’t happen to me.  I struggled a lot.  The reality is, working for someone else and studying business does not automatically make you a successful business owner.  That was very humbling and a huge wake up call for me.

Name one interesting talent you have or something we don’t know about you?

I’m a pretty good travel hacker.  I have traveled a bit for pretty cheap.

Who is someone that has impacted your life or helped you become who you are?

My husband.  My husband was the person who encouraged me to quit my full-time job to focus on growing The Moxie Maids.  He was the first person to fully believe that I could do it.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

Instagram: @stephrichparker .  Websites: https://www.stephanierichardsonparker.com/ .