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In Episode 174 of the Laundromat Resource Podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Tessa Leonard, a courageous entrepreneur from Cape Town, South Africa, who turned a struggling laundry business into a thriving operation. This episode is packed with insightful anecdotes, hard-earned wisdom, and practical tips that any aspiring business owner will find invaluable.

Overcoming Doubt and Embracing Risk
Jordan kicks off the conversation by sharing his personal experiences with fear and uncertainty when making significant financial decisions—whether it’s buying a loan or a business. He opens up about the internal battles of self-doubt and external skepticism that are all too common. This sets the stage for Tessa’s remarkable story.

Confidence Amidst Inexperience
Despite having no formal training or extensive experience, Tessa Leonard confidently embraced the challenge of owning a laundry business. Tessa recounts the intensive early days, working long hours to master machine operations and modern payment methods. Her persistence and resourcefulness are testament to the power of on-the-job learning and pure grit.

Innovation and Adaptation
Discover how Tessa revitalized a neglected business. Learn about her savvy use of QR codes for customer reviews, her strategic upgrades to higher-quality detergents, and her proactive approach to managing customer feedback. Hear how these changes not only improved operations but also dramatically boosted customer satisfaction.

From Single Mom to Successful Entrepreneur
Having returned to South Africa following a professional tennis career and a diverse array of jobs, Tessa found herself taking a leap of faith into entrepreneurship. She shares how she navigated the intricate process of purchasing the business remotely while on a backpacking trip in Europe, and the subsequent transformational journey that saw her doubling the business in under two years.

Unique Business Insights
Tessa also dives into the nitty-gritty of business management in South Africa, from dealing with electricity costs to transitioning staff from cash to digital payments. She candidly discusses the challenges of motivating and retaining good staff amidst a high unemployment rate and how she turned high-quality service into a unique selling point.

Future Plans and Vision
Tessa reveals her future plans, including potential expansions and her strategy for price increases that keep both residential and commercial clients satisfied. If you're curious about the evolving landscape of the laundry industry and how to leverage social media for business growth, this episode is a must-listen.

Join Jordan and Tessa for a rich, captivating conversation that is sure to leave you inspired and ready to take action in your own entrepreneurial journey. Don’t miss out on this episode packed with lessons on resilience, innovation, and the sheer power of persistence.

Ready to dive into Tessa's world? Check out the full episode now and visit laundromatresource.com/show174 for detailed show notes and exclusive picture

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