Roots Before Rise: What It Really Takes to Grow a Clean Business
Behind the Scenes at 3 Little Birds: Building Something That Lasts
Most businesses post flashy photos of jobs in action—reels of water cutting through grime, dramatic before-and-afters—to promote their services and attract new leads. And sure, I’ve done a bit of that too. But if you’ve been wondering why I haven’t been flooding the feed, it’s because I’ve been focused on something deeper.
I’m building a company that lasts.
That means more time behind the scenes than in front of the camera right now. Because real growth—responsible growth—takes more than just a pressure washer and a good logo. It takes systems, structure, commitment, and patience. I’m laying the foundation for the kind of business that can be called to wash a small cape in town or a 14-story resort. A business that can take care of grandma’s front steps and a solar field with 4,000 panels. One company, built right.
I’m Not Willing to Compromise
I’ve worked in this field long enough to know how easy it is to spread yourself thin. I’ve also seen what happens when people chase fast money at the expense of quality and integrity. That’s not what I’m here for. I’d rather shoulder more myself than cut corners or drop standards.
That mindset also means accepting that this is going to take time. Real growth isn’t fast—it’s layered, methodical, and intentional. But that’s actually been the key to enjoying the process. Once I stopped rushing toward the next milestone and accepted that the build itself is part of the reward, I started to really appreciate where I’m at. Every little step forward feels earned, and I’m not just building a business—I’m shaping the kind of future I actually want to be part of.
In this early stage, I’m funding a lot of it personally. Instead of waiting until the business could pay for everything, I’ve been investing from my own pocket. I’m all in. This is the long game, not a get-rich-quick scheme. And because I know where I want this to go, I accept the slow grind as part of the process. It’s not always easy—but it’s worth it.
What’s Going on Behind the Curtain?
A lot. Here’s just a glimpse:
Setting up customer management software and accounting systems
Establishing payroll, workman’s comp, and DOT compliance
Building out equipment—from used machines I rehab myself to a custom wash rig
Prepping for large-scale jobs while still honoring small local service calls
Balancing long-term infrastructure with daily tasks
Today, for example, I drove six hours round-trip to pick up a used machine I found for a price I could budget. Most folks wouldn’t bother. But I see the value in giving solid equipment new life. Around here, we don’t operate on a disposable basis—if something can be restored, maintained, or improved, we make the effort. That’s how we approach our tools, our systems, and even our relationships. It’s all connected. The way we treat our equipment is a reflection of how we value everything—and everyone—around us. This isn’t just about getting the job done. It’s about doing things with care, respect, and long-term purpose.
Local Roots, Big Vision
We recently ran our first full-year print ad in the local paper. That might seem small in the digital world, but to me it’s symbolic. It anchors us here. No matter how big we grow, I want 3 Little Birds to always be accessible to the local families and small businesses who need a hand.
Whether it’s a driveway rinse or a total roof treatment, we’ll show up with the same level of care and professionalism. No job too small—but also, no job too big.
Why I’m Really Doing This
Most people start a business thinking about how much money they’ll make—what kind of house they’ll buy, what kind of car they’ll drive. That’s not what drives me.
I’m thinking about how many people I can employ. How many tradespeople I can help support. How many hardworking young people I can give a shot to—especially the ones who didn’t have a clear path after high school or a family able to co-sign everything they needed. I want to build a company where people can earn a real living, not just for themselves, but so they can support their families too—put food on the table, create stability, and take pride in what they do.
I’m not building this to flex. I’m building it to provide.
If I ever get rich doing this, I’ll probably give most of it away to people—and animals—who need it more. Because for me, it’s not about what I can get. It’s about what I can give back.
I’ve spent most of my life pulling off big things behind the scenes—usually for other people. And most of the time, those efforts weren’t fully valued or respected. But now, I’ve built something that reflects what I believe in. Something I can pour everything into and guide toward something greater—something that creates opportunity, supports others, and stands for more than just one person.
Where We’re Headed Next
It’s been a long winter, but spring is here—and with it, the next chapter for 3 Little Birds. Equipment is ready. Systems are getting dialed. We’re about to shift from preparation to action.
Truth is, we’ve been in motion the whole time. Just a few weeks ago we were pumping out ice dam removal jobs across the region—serving customers in the harshest conditions, keeping things moving, and staying sharp. Between chasing down deals on fleet equipment, working through build-outs, refining our systems, developing online content, and staying active with training and research—this has never been on pause. It’s been full-time, every day, behind the scenes and in the field.
You’ll be seeing more of us—on job sites, on the road, and online. And when we show up to do a job, you can trust that everything behind the scenes has already been handled. That’s the difference. That’s what I’m building.
We’re not chasing hype. We’re laying down consistency. Every surface we clean, every system we install, every piece of equipment we roll out is part of a bigger vision—one that’s rooted in responsibility, professionalism, and real results. It might take a little longer to build it this way, but when it’s done, it’s going to last.
And even with more opportunities coming into view, we’re resisting the urge to slam the throttle wide open. Growth is exciting—but we’re keeping it deliberate. Easing into bigger steps, bigger surroundings, with intention. Because this isn’t about expanding fast—it’s about expanding right.
We’re entering a season of momentum—and this is just the beginning.
