Spin Cycle: Mark Csordos on Entrepreneurship, Mental Health, and Laundromats

Seek Go Create - The Leadership Journey for Christian Entrepreneurs and Faith-Driven Leaders

Are you curious about how personal struggles can lead to professional triumphs, even in unexpected industries? In today's episode of Seek Go Create, Tim Winders chats with Mark Csordos, an entrepreneur who transitioned from mystery shopping to owning laundromats after facing bankruptcy and depression. Discover the essential role of cleanliness and friendliness in business success, the booming demand for laundry services, and Mark's inspiring journey of reinvention and resilience. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or intrigued by the unsexy yet profitable world of laundromats, this episode offers valuable insights and motivation. Tune in to explore the transformative power of taking action in the face of adversity!

"Taking action is key; don't just be a bystander when pursuing business opportunities.” - Mark Csordos

Access all show and episode resources HERE

About Our Guest:

Mark Csordos is a seasoned entrepreneur with over three decades of experience in diverse industries. Founder of CNS Mystery Shoppers Inc, Mark transitioned to the laundromat business after overcoming personal challenges, including bankruptcy and severe depression. His adeptness at understanding customer needs and maintaining high standards has propelled him to success in the laundromat industry. Mark is also an author, sharing valuable insights through his books "The Laundromat Bible" and "Business Lessons for Entrepreneurs." His commitment to cleanliness, friendliness, and solid business practices underscores his expertise and credibility in maintaining thriving customer-centric enterprises.

Reasons to Listen:

1. **Entrepreneurial Resilience and Reinvention**: Discover how Mark Csordos turned his life around, transitioning from a mystery shopper to a thriving laundromat owner after facing bankruptcy and depression.

2. **Insider Tips on the Laundromat Industry**: Learn the secrets to creating a successful laundromat business, from the importance of cleanliness and friendly service to leveraging new technology and localized marketing tactics.

3. **Mental Health and Business**: Gain candid insights into the often-hidden struggles of entrepreneurship, as Mark discusses his battle with depression and the crucial steps he took for mental wellness, including innovative therapies.

Episode Resources & Action Steps:

### Resources Mentioned

1. **Coin Laundry Association** Website: https://www.coinlaundry.org/ - Description: Offers free information, resources, and a network for those interested in the laundromat industry.

2.**Book: "The Laundromat Bible" by Mark Csordos** - Description: How to find, buy & run a successful laundromat.

3. **Book: "Business Lessons for Entrepreneurs" by Mark Csordos** - Description: A book that distills the entrepreneurial insights Mark gained from his experiences, offering timeless advice for aspiring and current business owners.

4.**Mark Csordos website** - https://www.markcsordos.com/

### Action Steps

1. **Prioritize Cleanliness and Friendliness in Your Business**

- Mark and Tim emphasize the importance of maintaining a clean and welcoming environment for customers. Implement regular cleaning schedules and train staff to interact positively with customers, improving overall customer satisfaction.

2. **Expand Service Offerings**

- Consider adding wash-and-fold or pickup/delivery services to your laundromat to cater to the growing need for convenience, especially among modern families and seniors. This can help attract a wider demographic and boost your business growth.

3. **Engage with Your Community and Utilize Local Marketing**

- Utilize both traditional methods (like door hangers and community events) and modern platforms (like Instagram and Facebook) to connect with your local community. Building strong, community-based relationships can drive local customer loyalty and increase your business's visibility.

Resources for Leaders from Tim Winders & SGC:

🔹 Unlock Your Potential Today!

• 🎙 Coaching with Tim: Elevate your leadership and align your work with your faith. Learn More
• 📚 "Coach: A Story of Success Redefined": A transformative read that will challenge your views on success. Grab Your Copy
• 📝 Faith Driven Leader Quiz: Discover how well you're aligning faith and work with our quick quiz. Take the Quiz

Key Lessons:

1. **Cleanliness and Friendliness Matter**: One of the foundational pillars for any successful small business, like a laundromat, is maintaining a clean environment and a friendly atmosphere. Customers are more forgiving of limited amenities if the space is clean and the staff is welcoming.

2. **Entrepreneurship Offers Alternative Paths**: Mark’s journey from feeling undervalued in the workplace to successfully owning his own business highlights the potential for entrepreneurship to provide fulfilling and profitable career paths, especially when traditional employment falls short.

3. **Managing Mental Health is Crucial**: Mark Csordos' candid discussion about his battle with depression and the importance of seeking help underscores the need for mental health management, particularly during financial and professional downturns.

4. **Adapt to Technological Changes**: The evolution of technology, like the introduction of POS systems and credit card usage in laundromats, has modernized operations. Entrepreneurs must stay abreast of technological advancements to stay competitive.

5. **Action Fuels Success**: Highlighting the importance of the word "go" in "seek, go, create," taking proactive steps and being decisive are crucial for success in any business endeavor. Mark's story is a testament to the power of action in achieving business goals.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 The Breaking Point: A Final Illness

00:34 Introducing Mark Sordos: Entrepreneurial Resilience

02:02 The Laundromat Industry: A Steady Business

04:19 Mark's Early Life and First Business Venture

07:28 The Mystery Shopping Business

10:40 Lessons Learned and Writing a Book

16:50 Struggles and Depression: The Wilderness Years

26:38 A New Beginning: Entering the Laundromat Business

30:27 Exploring the Self-Storage and Car Wash Business

31:07 The Laundromat Industry Landscape

32:58 Technology's Impact on Laundromats

38:28 Marketing Strategies for Laundromats

46:39 The Rise of Wash and Fold Services

53:03 Advice for Aspiring Laundromat Owners

55:01 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Thank you for listening to Seek Go Create!

Our podcast is dedicated to empowering Christian leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to redefine success in their personal and professional lives. Through in-depth interviews, personal anecdotes, and expert advice, we offer valuable insights and actionable strategies for achieving your goals and living a life of purpose and fulfillment.

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