The enduring value of a simple, manual business

Winch, who founded what is now known as Clean Lots, traces his professional roots to Calgary. His father, Joseph, a World War II refugee from Poland, instilled a work ethic that prioritized reliability and grit over complex career paths. Following his father’s sudden death when Winch was 21, he chose to formalize the janitorial work they once did together. The business eventually grew to include his twin brothers, scaling to 700,000 dollars in annual revenue through diligent property maintenance and outreach.

Beyond the financial success, Winch views his operation as a form of mentorship. He now teaches others how to launch similar ventures, citing examples like a Chicago teacher who expanded a summer side hustle into a multi-state operation. For Winch, the work is defined by an attention to detail that algorithms cannot replicate—manually scouring bushes for debris or spotting graffiti—and a sense of connection to his father’s legacy. He maintains that the core of his longevity is not the trash collection itself, but the commitment to being of genuine service to property owners.