How a Nuclear Worker Built a Modern Laundromat

Описание: In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Gilchrist, co-owner of Mod Laundry in Surprise / El Mirage, Arizona, to talk about his journey from working nearly two decades at a nuclear power plant to launching a modern laundromat with his wife, Michelle — all while still working their full-time careers.

Ryan shares how a simple problem with one of their rental property tenants sparked the idea, and how that curiosity turned into a nearly $1 million laundromat build designed to serve families, renters, and the surrounding community with a cleaner, more modern experience.

🧠 In this interview, we cover:

• Why Ryan and Michelle chose the laundromat business as they approach retirement
• How joining the Coin Laundry Association helped shape their business plan
• The challenges of opening a laundromat while still working full-time jobs
• Why they chose to lease instead of buy real estate
• How they designed the store for efficiency, safety, and customer comfort

🧺 Inside Mod Laundry:
• 2,700 sq. ft. modern laundromat in the West Phoenix suburbs
• 22 washers and 27+ dryers with over 1,200 lbs of wash capacity
• Ozone sanitation system to reduce gas usage and improve cleanliness
• Fully card-based LaundryWorks system (cash + card, mobile coming soon)
• Wash-Dry-Fold and Pickup & Delivery services
• Read, Learn, Play Center in partnership with Laundry Cares
• USB-C charging stations, bar seating, TVs, free Wi-Fi
• Strong security systems and controlled restroom access

📈 The Business Side:
• Opened less than a year ago and reached profitability in ~6 months
• Community customers make up ~90% of business
• Commercial accounts include Airbnb cleaners, clinics, pet groomers, and restaurants
• Break-even point around 3 turns per day — currently exceeding that
• Family-run operation with a small, hands-on team

Ryan also shares honest insights about marketing struggles, pricing decisions, equipment maintenance, staffing, and what he’d do differently if he were starting again.

Whether you’re thinking about opening your first laundromat, transitioning out of a demanding career, or simply curious how modern laundromats really operate — this episode is packed with real-world lessons.

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