In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Green Up Solutions LLC, Andy Weins. Andy's entrepreneurial journey began with his first business, a junk removal service, while he was still serving in the military reserves. After getting laid off in 2009, he realized his skill sets didn't align with the civilian world. This led him to get serious about his business. Starting with environmental consulting, he eventually expanded into junk removal. The junk removal industry, as Andy pointed out, has seen significant growth due to society's increased consumption and shorter product lifecycles. The barrier to entry in this industry is relatively low, requiring a solid back and a pickup truck. However, those who build sustainable businesses with great marketing and best practices will withstand market fluctuations. Andy believes that language plays a crucial role in overcoming imposter syndrome. By changing how we speak to ourselves, we can shift from a mindset of fear and negativity to positivity and confidence. His book teaches readers how to use language effectively to succeed in all life aspects. Andy explained that people who have eliminated limiting language have experienced a transformation in their mindset. They become aware of the possibilities and open themselves up to new opportunities. Individuals can communicate more clearly and confidently by eliminating words like "if" and "just" and focusing on positive outcomes. This shift in language also extends to the organization as a whole, positively impacting culture, profitability, and overall success.

Key Points from the Episode:

Transitioning from military life to civilian life and applying military discipline to entrepreneurship
Andy's experience starting a junk removal business while in the military reserves
Growth and challenges in the junk removal industry
Overview of Andy's book, "Words Effing Matter," focusing on the power of language
Coaching and consulting small groups on addressing imposter syndrome and limiting self-beliefs
The role of language in overcoming imposter syndrome and shifting mindset
Impact of eliminating limiting language on mindset and opportunities

About Andy Weins:

Andy Weins is a dynamic advocate for veterans, entrepreneurs, and community involvement, showcased through his consulting, teaching, podcasting, and writing efforts. With a background of almost two decades in the military, including service during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, he continues his commitment as a U.S. Army Reserve Career Counselor. Hailing from Wisconsin, Andy offers practical advice to elevate veterans, entrepreneurs, and business leaders underpinned by data-driven methodologies and real-world experiences. He co-founded Green Up Solutions for environmental consulting, Camo Crew Junk Removal for waste disposal, and Young Guns, a community fostering entrepreneurial growth. Awards such as the 2023 Waste360 "40 Under 40" recognition and the 2022 Outstanding Business of the Year—Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business honor reflect his impact on waste management and business development. Andy embodies a Midwest-based, empowerment-focused ethos, serving as a source of inspiration and strategic guidance.

About Green Up Solutions LLC:

Green Up Solutions is a seasoned environmental consulting firm specializing in demolition, deconstruction, and sanitization services, boasting three decades of experience. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, we pride ourselves on delivering unparalleled discipline, efficiency, and professionalism to the realms of demo and deconstruction. By collaborating closely with clients, we grasp the intricate interplay between our tasks and project advancement, ensuring our work sets the stage for the project's overall success. Our mission is committed to harmoniously balancing environmental considerations with project objectives, epitomizing our dedication to quality and sustainability.

Tweetable Moments:

2:11 - “Being an entrepreneur was in me and I did all the things other than entrepreneurship. I work for the big companies. I worked for small companies, I joined the military, I deployed. And finally when I looked at myself in the mirror, I said, what? Was I put on this earth to be in entrepreneurs? That's that's where I'm at and that's where I really lean in. That's the life I live and the life I love.” 8:57 - “We know that thoughts are rooted in a language. When you change the words and the language you use within your thoughts, you change your perception. When you change your perception, you change your actions. Your actions become habits.”

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Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Want to learn more? Check out Green Up Solutions website at https://www.greenupsolutions.org/ Check out Green Up Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenupsolutions/ Check out Andy Weins on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyweins/ Check out Andy Weins on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/andy.weins1 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

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